RAT2 Distortion Pedal

Gearank High Notes

• 2022.07: Equal Highest Rated Distortion Pedal Under $100
  Tied With:
  Boss DS-1
  MXR M75 Super Badass

• 2020.01: Equal Highest Rated Distortion Pedal Under $100
  Tied With:
  MXR M104 Distortion+
  MXR M75 Super Badass

Gearank Recommended

Overview

The RAT 2 is a surprisingly versatile distortion pedal. Though it leans more to the “fuzz” side of the spectrum than many pedals featured on this list, the pedal is still capable of everything from light overdrive to heavy levels of distortion. Fuzz, while similar to distortion, is actually a notably different effect. For a good example, think of Jack White’s tone vs classic rock. The RAT 2, while primarily a distortion pedal, still has some of the characteristics of fuzz at high distortion levels.

The unit features a ‘Filter’ control that allows you to roll on/off the brittle high end frequencies to your taste. Lastly, the RAT 2 is also true bypass. True bypass pedals let your signal pass through the unit unaltered when the pedal isn’t engaged, as is preferred by many tone purists. This can be especially important if you plan on using multiple pedals.

Features

• Controls: Distortion, Filter, Volume
• Analog
• True Bypass
• 9-Volt Adapter/Battery (Sold Separately)
• Artists: Jeff Beck, Joe Perry, Kurt Cobain (Territorial Pissings), Joe Walsh, Thom Yorke, Dave Grohl, Thurston Moore

Demo