Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
4.5 (2)
$279.00
Amazon
3.6 (6)
$279.00
Amazon Prime
Reverb
5.0 (18)
$255.64 New
$208.38 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (22)
$279.00
Thomann
4.6 (53)
$232.00 $230.00 $2.00 · All time low

Average Price: $255

Standard/Professional

$100

$276+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Carl Martin Headroom". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Meet the Carl Martin Headroom, your new go-to for a 'real spring' reverb effect. Uniquely easy to use, this pedal features two identical channels, each with their own tone and level controls. This allows you to craft your sound, from a mellow, small-room reverb on Channel A, to a dramatic, dark large-room reverb on Channel B. Your sound, your choice.

Switch effortlessly between the two with the foot-controlled switches, or bypass the effect entirely. It's like having two separate reverbs in your amp, all in a compact pedal format.

The Carl Martin Headroom doesn't simply stop at providing top-notch sound quality. It sports a solid metal casing, vintage chicken head knobs, and double-mounted springs to minimize feedback during live performances. Plus, with remote jacks for Bypass and Channel Select, you can save space on your pedal-board by placing the effect in your rack or at the back of your amp.

And of course, this pedal carries the Carl Martin quality stamp, ensuring you top-of-the-line performance with every use.

Key Features: - Real spring reverb effect - Two channels, each with individual tone and level controls - Foot-controlled switches for channel selection and bypass - Solid metal casing and vintage chicken head knobs - Double-mounted springs to reduce stage feedback - Remote jacks for Bypass and Channel Select - Powered by a 9V DC power supply (not included).

Product specs

Available since April 2012
Analog Yes
Battery Operation Yes
PSU included No
input/output configuration Mono in / mono out

FAQs

What type of reverb does the Carl Martin Headroom provide?

The Carl Martin Headroom offers real spring reverb, providing a classic, warm reverb sound reminiscent of vintage amplifiers.

Can the Carl Martin Headroom be powered by a battery?

Yes, the Carl Martin Headroom can operate on battery power, making it convenient for portable setups.

Does the Carl Martin Headroom come with a power supply?

No, the Carl Martin Headroom does not include a power supply, so you'll need to purchase one separately if you prefer not to use batteries.

Is the Carl Martin Headroom suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Carl Martin Headroom is well-suited for live performances, offering robust analog spring reverb that enhances your live sound with classic reverb tones.

How does the mono input/output configuration affect the use of the Carl Martin Headroom?

The mono input/output configuration is ideal for guitarists looking to add reverb to their signal chain, maintaining simplicity and ensuring compatibility with most pedalboards and amplifiers.

That Pedal Show

That Pedal Show

Wonderful Spring Reverb: Genuine Spring Units Compared With Digital Pedals – That Pedal Show

Video thumbnail for Wonderful Spring Reverb: Genuine Spring Units Compared With Digital Pedals – That Pedal Show by That Pedal Show

Wonderful Spring Reverb: Genuine Spring Units Compared With Digital Pedals – That Pedal Show

That Pedal Show

That Pedal Show

Video thumbnail for Carl Martin Headroom Reverb, demo by Pete Thorn by Pete Thorn

Carl Martin Headroom Reverb, demo by Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Video thumbnail for Carl Martin Headroom Reverb Demo by Robert Baker

Carl Martin Headroom Reverb Demo

Robert Baker

Robert Baker

Video thumbnail for Carl Martin - Headroom - Pedal Demo by EytschPi42

Carl Martin - Headroom - Pedal Demo

EytschPi42

EytschPi42

Video thumbnail for HeadRoom / Carl Martin / Dual Analog Spring Reverb / VintageandRare.com by VintageandRare

HeadRoom / Carl Martin / Dual Analog Spring Reverb / VintageandRare.com

VintageandRare

VintageandRare

Video thumbnail for Carl Martin Headroom Spring Reverb by Jack Fossett

Carl Martin Headroom Spring Reverb

Jack Fossett

Jack Fossett

Video thumbnail for My favourite EVER reverb pedal!!!!! Carl Martin Headroom Review by The Guitar Show

My favourite EVER reverb pedal!!!!! Carl Martin Headroom Review

The Guitar Show

The Guitar Show

Video thumbnail for Carl Martin Headroom (All-Analog Spring Tank Reverb Pedal) by Joe Perkins

Carl Martin Headroom (All-Analog Spring Tank Reverb Pedal)

Joe Perkins

Joe Perkins

Video thumbnail for Carl Martin Headroom Reverb vs FreeTheTone AMBI Space Reverb/원미사운드 by WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

Carl Martin Headroom Reverb vs FreeTheTone AMBI Space Reverb/원미사운드

WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

Video thumbnail for Carl Martin Headroom Demo (No Talking) by Musikbutiken i Vara

Carl Martin Headroom Demo (No Talking)

Musikbutiken i Vara

Musikbutiken i Vara

Reviews

PROS

  • Authentic tube-driven spring reverb sound

  • Dual channels allow for versatile reverb tones

  • Can smoothly switch between two presets

  • Works great with both vintage and modern amplifiers

  • Solid build quality, described as "built like a tank"

  • Compatible with standard 9v DC power supply

  • Quiet footswitching, minimizing stage noise

  • Can run on a single 9v battery for noiseless setup

  • Offers real analog tone, preferred over digital by some

  • Provides a natural, lush reverb experience

CONS

  • Size can be challenging for pedalboard placement

  • Connections to the spring tank may be fragile

  • Sensitive to impact; best kept level on the floor

  • Some units may produce a slight hum with certain power supplies

  • High price point compared to other reverb pedals

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Carl Martin Headroom.

Features and functionality

  • The Carl Martin Headroom offers two preset options, which provide versatility in creating subtle reverb or full surfy drip sounds, reminiscent of old surf records.

    Source
  • The pedal lacks depth control but offers flexibility with its two presets, akin to the input gain on a Fender Reverb.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Preferred over the Sole-Mate and Orion due to the Headroom's sound quality and dual presets, making it a strong choice for those seeking a versatile reverb pedal.

    Source
  • The Carl Martin Headroom has replaced the TRex Roommate 2 for some users, emphasizing the preference for its authentic spring reverb.

    Source

User experience

  • Many users find the Headroom does not sound "digital" like other reverbs, even when used subtly, leading to its frequent use as an "always on" pedal.

    Source
  • Users report that the Headroom can effectively replace the reverb tank in amps, providing better tone control and avoiding overly bright tones.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the Headroom's natural integration into their tone, describing it as part of the sound rather than an added effect.

    Source
  • Described as an "endgame pedal," multiple users express long-term satisfaction, with some noting a shift away from digital reverb pedals after prolonged use.

    Source
  • Owners report that the pedal integrates seamlessly into their signal chain, providing a warm and full sense of space that surpasses digital spring pedals.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Although made in China, the Headroom's high-quality performance is noted as a reason for its relatively affordable price under $500.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The pedal is praised for its organic, deep, and detailed reverb, making it suitable for players who desire both subtle ambient effects and pronounced surf sounds.

    Source
  • Particularly effective in effects loops, the Headroom's footprint encourages a focus on fundamental playing by reducing gear acquisition syndrome (GAS).

    Source

Build quality

  • The pedal is well-built and secure, though stepping on it can cause a noticeable splash, particularly on softer surfaces like a squishy carpet.

    Source

Other

  • Operates efficiently on a battery with minimal power consumption at 10mA @9v, making it a practical choice for those with limited board space.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Carl Martin HeadRoom review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Carl Martin HeadRoom stands out as a pedal delivering authentic spring reverb without the need for a bulky, expensive amp. With its genuine spring reverb unit, the HeadRoom offers two adjustable reverb depths and maintains a compact size akin to two Big Muff pedals. While the battery compartment cover could be prone to misplacement, the pedal's ability to run on a 9V adaptor and the option for remote footswitches enhance its practicality. The sound is genuinely Fender-like, and the pedal's design minimizes unwanted noise from footswitch usage. This makes it an excellent choice for musicians seeking real electro-mechanical reverb in a pedalboard-friendly package.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 9 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jonas_n

Perfect.

Expensive but simply awsome.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Johnny Marr uses Carl Martin Headroom

Johnny Marr

Singer, Guitarist

Modest Mouse

...
Verified via Photo

This shot of Johnny’s pedalbard is fairly recent – pulled from Johnny Marr’s Facebook page.

See how Justin Vernon uses Carl Martin Headroom

Justin Vernon

Singer, Guitarist

Bon Iver

...
Verified via YouTube

At Justin Vernons show at the Austin City Limits his pedalboard can be seen multiple times. At minute 23:56 (or whenever the pedalboard is shown) you clearly can see the Carl Martin Headroom hat the top (left from his perspective corner). Its put on an horizontal add onn on his pedalboard, keeping the spring in even position.

See how Batuhan Mutlugil uses Carl Martin Headroom

Batuhan Mutlugil

Guitarist

Duman

...
Verified via Instagram

Batuhan Mutlugil shared his instagram story that he uses Carl Martin Headroom.

See how Gotoh Masafumi uses Carl Martin Headroom

Gotoh Masafumi

Singer, Guitarist

Asian Kung-Fu Generation

...
Verified via YouTube

In the linked エフェクターってなぁに?("What's an effector?") segment of the radio show "Just a Feeling supported by only in dreams", Gotch introduces the Carl Martin Headroom pedal (first shown at 0:50 in the video). After the host remarks that it's rather large (1:19), Gotch explains (1:22 - 1:29) that rather than live shows, it's used for recordings, where it really comes in handy.

ライブ器材じゃなくて、レコーディングようの器材としてすごい重宝してる。

Gotch explains (1:47) that it's a great reverb for guitar when you want a pure sound, as opposed to his Fender Tweed reverb he'd use for a wilder effect that changes the sound of the guitar.

(3:07 - 5:10) The B channel is set to a longer delay, but Gotch uses the short delay on the A channel (marked with a red line) rather often. He explains that it lets e.g. a distorted solo guitar stand out from a wall of sound.

See how Pablo van de Poel uses Carl Martin Headroom

Pablo van de Poel

Singer, Guitarist

DeWolff

...
Verified via YouTube

At around 5:00 this pedal is visible on his pedalboard.

E

Eric “King” Zapata

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

King Zapata discusses his Carl Martin reverb pedal at 34:51 into this Rig Rundown from premier guitar.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Carl Martin Headroom, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1 alternative for Carl Martin Headroom, curated by the Equipboard community.

Carl Martin HeadRoom Mini

$230.00 - $279.00

newer similar sound cheaper alternative

The Mini is a smaller form factor, digital emulation of the original Headroom spring reverb.

More Carl Martin Reverb Effects Pedals

Community setups

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    jonas_n
    jonas_n

    Gear IQ 247