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Average Price: $88
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$50
$176+
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Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unleash the power of your guitar, bass, or keys with the Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord, a compact yet potent overdrive pedal that delivers a wide spectrum of sonic possibilities. This nano-sized version of the revered Operation Overlord retains the same exceptional overdrive and distortion tones but comes in a mono design for those who prefer a single-channel setup.
The Nano Operation Overlord operates in two distinct modes: Normal and Boost. The Normal mode, with its three JFET gain stages, offers low to medium gain sounds that emulate the warm, dynamic response of tube amplifiers. Engage the Boost mode, and you're adding a pedal-type overdrive circuit before the JFET stages, escalating the overall distortion to a higher level of intensity.
What sets this pedal apart is its Dry blend control, invaluable for bass and keyboards, as it lets you retain your instrument's articulation, harmonic content, and bottom end. Add to this a 3-position input level selector switch and an active 3-band EQ, and you have an incredibly versatile tone-shaping tool at your disposal.
Key Features:
- Amplifier-like JFET overdrive with three gain levels
- Switchable Boost mode for saturated distortion sounds
- Dry blend control to preserve the harmonic content and full frequency range of an instrument
- Active 3-band EQ for precise tone shaping
- Controls: Gain, Dry, Volume, Bass, Mid, Treble
- 3-position input level switch for optimal gain staging
- LED indicators for Effect On and Boost On
- Compact, pedalboard-friendly design
- Power supply with a 9V DC mains adapter (included)
Owner's manual
Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord User ManualProduct specs
| Pedal Type | Overdrive, Boost |
| Analog/Digital | Analog |
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Outputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Other I/O | 1 x 1/4" (external boost switch) |
| Bypass Switching | Buffered |
| Power Source | 9V DC negative center power supply (included) |
| Power Usage | 50mA |
| Height | 2.1" |
| Width | 2.75" |
| Depth | 4.5" |
FAQs
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What type of instruments is the Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord suitable for?
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The Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord is designed for electric guitars, basses, and keyboards, providing versatile overdrive and distortion effects across these instruments.
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Does the Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord work well with bass guitars?
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Yes, the Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord is compatible with bass guitars, delivering a punchy and clear overdrive that maintains low-end clarity.
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What power supply does the Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord require?
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The Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord requires a 9V DC negative center power supply, which is included with the pedal.
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Can I use an external boost switch with the Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord?
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Yes, the Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord features an additional 1/4" input for an external boost switch, allowing for added flexibility during performances.
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How does the Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord handle buffered bypass switching?
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The Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord utilizes buffered bypass switching, which helps preserve your signal integrity over long cable runs and pedalboard setups.
Videos
EHX
Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord Overdrive Pedal (EHX Demo by TOM BURDA)
Reviews
PROS
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Versatile, works well with guitar and bass rigs
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Highly responsive overdrive with clean boost option
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3-band EQ for precise tone blending
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Compatible with other OD/distortion pedals for gain stacking
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Offers multiple gain settings for different instruments
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Natural and smooth overdrive tone
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Compact standard format with numerous sound customization options
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Solid construction and quality build
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Works as both preamp and fuzz pedal
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Improves sound quality across various musical instruments
CONS
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Requires tweaking due to multiple knobs
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Boost function is on/off without adjustable level
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Not as effective for high gain/distortion as expected
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Controls can be difficult to adjust (tight and small)
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Initial unit had quality control issue with broken footswitch
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Electro-Harmonix Nano Operation Overlord.
Features and functionality
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The pedal's boost can be independently activated via an internal switch, allowing it to enhance other pedals in the chain without engaging the overdrive.
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The 3-band EQ is notably sensitive, requiring careful adjustments to achieve the desired sound.
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The EHX Overlord is appreciated for its stereo capability, which can maintain stereo signals from polyphonic synths, although its necessity varies by user setup.
Source
Use cases and applications
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The stereo I/O feature enables dual-amp setups, providing versatility even when starting with a mono input.
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Owners report the pedal works well with both single coils and humbuckers, making it adaptable for various guitar types.
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Can be used effectively as a preamp, thanks to the dry control which adjusts the amount of affected signal.
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Some owners note the pedal tends to suck out low end from the signal, which may not suit synth bass users but could work well with electric pianos or string machines.
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Comparisons
User experience
Critic Reviews
3.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings
174
The most versatile OD at it's size.
I bought it as a preamp pedal because of the 3 bend EQ and the 3 different gain stages. Now I use it as a fuzz and it sounds fantastic.
Preferred Settings + Usage:
For great fuzz tone I use the high intput level with the boost on, a little trebble, the middle at 0, and quite lot bass.
Artist usage
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Used With
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Community setups
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