In the realm of heavy music, where power and aggression meet artistic expression, the right combination of equipment can mean the difference between a mediocre sound and a crushing, ear-shattering sonic experience.
Metal guitarists often rely on effects pedals to craft their signature tones, adding depth, texture, and intensity to their music. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of metal effects pedals and explore ten of the best options that have captured the hearts of shredders and headbangers alike.
Ibanez Tube Screamer TS9
While not solely a metal pedal, the Ibanez Tube Screamer TS9 has found its way into countless metal rigs due to its ability to tighten up low end and provide that coveted “tight” sound. Used in combination with high-gain amps, it can add definition and clarity to heavy riffs.
MXR Fullbore Metal
For those seeking a pedal that’s purpose-built for metal mayhem, the MXR Fullbore Metal is an exceptional choice. Its aggressive gain structure, adjustable noise gate, and comprehensive EQ controls make it a force to be reckoned with in any heavy genre.
Pro Co Rat Distortion
A vintage option that’s never gone out of style, the Pro Co Rat Distortion delivers a raw, gritty tone that’s equally at home in classic metal as it is in modern subgenres. Its simplicity belies its power, and it remains a favorite for those who crave a searing, unapologetic sound.
Electro Harmonix Hell Melter
The Electro Harmonix Hell Melter is a Boss HM-2-alike and introduces a clean blend. It’s a standard one-knob noise gate, with only the threshold adjustable. It performs well, and luckily for those doing the percussive stop-start thing, it has a lightning-quick decay time.
Revv Northern Mauler
The Revv Northern Mauler combines high gain & chainsaw mayhem. One half of the pedal is a sonic assault inspired by the HM-2 sound. The other is the punchy high gain Revv is known for. Blend freely between the 2 circuits to find your own unique, memorable sound into a wide variety of setups.
Electro Harmonix Metal Muff
With a name like “Metal Muff,” you can expect this Electro-Harmonix pedal to deliver in the heavy department. Known for its thick and saturated tones, the Metal Muff is perfect for players who want a wall of sonic aggression at their feet.
Wampler Dracarys
The Wampler Dracarys is a high-gain distortion pedal that aims to capture the essence of dragons breathing fire. Its unique voicing options and “Scream” button for added intensity make it a versatile tool for crafting monstrous metal tones.
Empress Effects Heavy Menace
This is one of the most versatile distortion pedals the company has ever built. The Empress Effects Heavy Menace has three modes: the company’s renowned Heavy and Heavier modes, along with a new mode that is suited for classic hard-rock. It als has a footswitchable noise gate. No matter what high-gain sound you’re aiming for, this stompbox has it.
Walrus Audio Eras Distortion
The Walrus Audio Eras Distortion is a chug box. It has a 5-stage mode knob that offers a handful of different clipping options. They range from scooped and tight to compressed and smooth. Thos pedal will suit the djent-and-chug crowd pretty easily, but also delivers in lower gain settings.
Friedman BE-OD
The Friedman BE OD is designed to emulate a cranked BE-100 tube amplifier. It is built for fans of high gain and will please modern prog metal players. It is a transparent pedal, you can dial it so it will keep all of the character of the guitar you are playing.
Conclusion
The world of metal effects pedals is a sonic playground where intensity and creativity collide. Whether you’re a classic metal purist or a progressive metal virtuoso, the right pedal can elevate your playing to new heights. The ten pedals mentioned above represent some of the best options available for crafting the ultimate metal tone, each with its unique characteristics that cater to the diverse palette of metal genres. So, strap in, crank up the gain, and prepare to unleash an auditory assault like no other.