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Average Price: $175

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$176+

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Description

Transform your guitar's tone with the Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal, a signature creation of Misha Mansoor from the progressive metal band Periphery. Designed for versatility, this pedal is ideal for musicians seeking a dynamic overdrive effect that can enhance anything from subtle warmth to aggressive distortion. The Apex Preamp Pedal integrates seamlessly into any setup, providing a crisp, clear, and articulate sound that ensures your guitar's natural tone remains intact while adding a rich, saturated texture.

This pedal is equipped with straightforward controls for gain, volume, and a three-band EQ, allowing you to shape your sound with precision. The unique blend of analog and digital technology offers a wide range of tonal possibilities, making it a staple for both studio sessions and live performances. Its rugged construction ensures durability for touring musicians, while its compact size saves valuable pedalboard space. Whether you're looking for a tight, punchy rhythm or a soaring lead tone, the Apex Preamp Pedal delivers with style and reliability.

Key Features:

  • Signature design by Misha Mansoor
  • Versatile overdrive effect with rich saturation
  • Simple controls: Gain, Volume, and 3-band EQ
  • Unique blend of analog and digital technology
  • Compact and durable construction for easy transport
  • Suitable for both live performances and studio recording

Product specs

Brand Horizon Devices
Model Apex Preamp
Finish Black
Year 2019 - 2025
Made In United States
Categories Preamps
Pedal Format Standard

FAQs

What type of tones can I expect from the Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal?

The Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal is designed to deliver high-gain, modern metal tones with tight low end and articulate high frequencies. It's ideal for players looking for aggressive, cutting-edge sounds suitable for metal and hard rock genres.

Can the Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal be used with a clean amp?

Yes, the Apex Preamp Pedal can be used with a clean amp to add high-gain distortion and tonal shaping, effectively transforming your clean amp into a high-gain metal powerhouse.

Does the Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal work well with other pedals?

The Apex Preamp Pedal is designed to integrate seamlessly with other pedals, making it a versatile addition to your pedalboard. It works particularly well when placed before modulation and time-based effects in the signal chain.

What power supply does the Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal require?

The Apex Preamp Pedal requires a standard 9V DC power supply, with a minimum current rating of 100mA, to operate properly.

Is the Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Apex Preamp Pedal is well-suited for live performances, offering robust construction and reliable performance. Its ability to deliver consistent high-gain tones makes it ideal for stage use.

Ola Englund

Ola Englund

HORIZON DEVICES APEX PREAMP - WHEN DJENT IS LIFE

Video thumbnail for HORIZON DEVICES APEX PREAMP - WHEN DJENT IS LIFE by Ola Englund

HORIZON DEVICES APEX PREAMP - WHEN DJENT IS LIFE

Ola Englund

Ola Englund

Video thumbnail for Apex Preamp: What can it do? by Horizon Devices

Apex Preamp: What can it do?

Horizon Devices

Horizon Devices

Video thumbnail for Horizon Devices | Apex Preamp by Rabea Massaad

Horizon Devices | Apex Preamp

Rabea Massaad

Rabea Massaad

Video thumbnail for Keith Merrow - Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Demo, Metal by Keith Merrow

Keith Merrow - Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Demo, Metal

Keith Merrow

Keith Merrow

Video thumbnail for Djent In A Box? APEX PREAMP by Horizon Devices by Andrew Baena

Djent In A Box? APEX PREAMP by Horizon Devices

Andrew Baena

Andrew Baena

Video thumbnail for HORIZON APEX PREAMP - AMAZING HEAVY TONES! demo by Pete Thorn by Pete Thorn

HORIZON APEX PREAMP - AMAZING HEAVY TONES! demo by Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Video thumbnail for PERFECT DJENT TONE IN ONE CLICK - Horizon Devices APEX Preamp by Keyan Houshmand Live

PERFECT DJENT TONE IN ONE CLICK - Horizon Devices APEX Preamp

Keyan Houshmand Live

Keyan Houshmand Live

Video thumbnail for Misha Mansoor Dials In The Apex Preamp by Horizon Devices

Misha Mansoor Dials In The Apex Preamp

Horizon Devices

Horizon Devices

Video thumbnail for Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Demo | GREAT METAL TONE IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND by Gerry Trevino

Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Demo | GREAT METAL TONE IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND

Gerry Trevino

Gerry Trevino

Video thumbnail for Quick Demo : Horizon Devices Apex Preamp (No Talk) by Yess Guitar Thailand

Quick Demo : Horizon Devices Apex Preamp (No Talk)

Yess Guitar Thailand

Yess Guitar Thailand

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal.

Features and functionality

  • Apex Preamp includes a built-in noise gate and cabinet simulator, offering studio-grade djent tones when used with a clean channel setup.

    Source
  • The Apex Preamp includes a "tight" switch that enhances chord clarity, ideal for rhythm playing, and can be turned off for lead sections.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Apex Preamp excels with high-gain settings, transforming clean channels into metal-ready setups, but may not perform as well with blues-type tube combos.

    Source
  • When used without a fuzz, the Apex Preamp provides a tight metal tone, making it suitable for bands focusing on breakdowns and heavy riffs.

    Source
  • Apex Preamp sounds best through the Boss Katana's dirty channel, especially for Deathcore and Tech Death, when compared to clean and FX loop settings.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to the MXR EVH 5150, the Apex Preamp is considered superior despite its higher cost; it delivers unique distortion capabilities.

    Source
  • Some users find the Apex Preamp underperforms in Mustang III v2's FX loop, suggesting the Katana may be a better pairing.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the Apex is not highly versatile; it offers consistent tone similar to demo videos, making it crucial to like its inherent sound.

    Source
  • Owners value the built-in noise gate for cleaning up sound during heavy breakdowns, a feature not commonly experienced by first-time preamp users.

    Source
  • Owners find the Apex Preamp complements both active (Fishmans) and passive (Mayhem Distortion) pickups well, enhancing its versatility across different guitar setups.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Placement experimentation shows putting the Apex after a fuzz can help with volume adjustment and may push the Apex into more distortion.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The Boss Katana disables most features when connected via the power amp port, making it less ideal for the Apex Preamp's full potential.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Horizon Devices' Apex Preamp pedal: A Swiss Army Knife for metal tones? - gearnews.com

gearnews.com

Horizon Devices' Apex Preamp Pedal emerges as a versatile tool for metal aficionados, boasting features like a built-in noise gate and customizable cab sim, enhancing both studio and live performances. Its user-friendly layout, including essential controls for shaping sound, positions it as a must-try for high-gain enthusiasts. However, its exclusive focus on the metal genre may alienate broader audiences, and the introductory price might deter budget-conscious players. Overall, the Apex Preamp combines functionality with quality, making it a solid investment for those diving deep into djent and heavy tones.

positive

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Misha Mansoor uses Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal

Misha Mansoor

Guitarist, Drummer

Periphery

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Misha Mansoor demonstrates how to use the Apex Preamp.

See how Ola Englund uses Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal

Ola Englund

Guitarist, Podcasters & Streamers

Six Feet Under

...
Verified via YouTube

At 6:01 in this video, Ola Englund used the Apex Preamp.

See how Jason Richardson uses Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal

Jason Richardson

Guitarist

Chelsea Grin

...
Verified via Photo

In this post jason shows off the horizon divises apex preamp pedal he owns

See how Andrew Baena uses Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal

Andrew Baena

Guitarist, Music Producer

Carcosa

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo andrews apex pre amp pedal can be seen next to his solar guitar

See how Sithu Aye uses Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal

Sithu Aye

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by Sithu Aye, a Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal is visibly present on his pedalboard. The post, dated July 03, 2024, features a photo and a caption where Sithu Aye discusses organizing his workspace: "So I've been so busy with moving house and there are always a million things to do around the place. But today I've finally gotten my office and workspace into a usable state. I haven't finalised all the storage and cable management (if I ever do it) but I think it would be cool to show off the workspace to the world."

See how Rich Ward uses Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal

Rich Ward

Guitarist

Fozzy

...
Verified via Photo

Rich Ward showcases the Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal in his Instagram post, where it's visible among his collection of gear.

See how Rohan Stevenson uses Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal

Rohan Stevenson

Guitarist, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 10:46 in this video, Rohan's pedal collection is shown consisting of an Ibanez TS808, Horizon Devices Apex Preamp, Nano Attack and Precision Drive, as well as a Keeley 4-knob compressor, Magnum 44 power amp, Boss TU-2 tuner, and two Radial JDI DI boxes.

See how Alex Winter uses Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal

Alex Winter

Guitarist

Sweet Thing

...
Verified via Photo

In this post alex shows off the horizon apex preamp pedal he owns

See how Adam Bentley uses Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal

Adam Bentley

Guitarist

Arch Echo

...
Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram post by Adam Bentley (@abentleymusic), he is shown using the Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal. The caption reads: "Quick Heavy riff with the Apex Preamp running into the @getgooddrums Zilla IR Plug-in!" This confirms his use of the pedal.

See how Eric Woolard uses Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal

Eric Woolard

Guitarist

For the Fallen Dreams

...
Verified via YouTube

In a YouTube video titled "Backwoods Beatdown feat. the Horizon Devices Apex Preamp," Eric Woolard demonstrates the Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal. In the video's description, Woolard mentions, "All of the guitars in this video were done using a Wampler Ego into a Horizon Devices Apex Preamp."

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 Horizon Devices Apex Preamp Pedal, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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rob_vandewiele

rob_vandewiele

Gear IQ 996

rob_vandewiele

rob_vandewiele

Gear IQ 996

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