Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $141

Standard/Professional

$80

$181+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Unleash your metal compositions with the Ibanez SM9 Super Metal pedal, a powerhouse of distortion that brings an aggressive edge to your guitar sound. This pedal, hailing from the renowned Ibanez 9 series, is celebrated for its distinctive midrange control, allowing guitarists to carve out their own sonic signature. Whether you're playing bone-crushing riffs or piercing solos, the SM9 delivers a wide range of distortion tones, from gritty crunch to searing lead. Its robust design ensures durability on stage and in the studio, making it a trusted companion for any guitarist seeking that raw, untamed metal sound.

The SM9's intuitive interface features a straightforward layout with clear control knobs, putting the power of tonal shaping at your fingertips. With separate adjustments for Level, Tone, Attack, and Distortion, you can fine-tune your sound with precision. The smooth footswitch operation ensures seamless transitions, perfect for live performances where timing is everything. This pedal not only enhances your sound but also inspires creativity, encouraging you to push the boundaries of your musical expression.

Key Features:

  • Distinctive midrange control for customized tonal shaping
  • Smooth footswitch operation for seamless transitions
  • Controls for Level, Tone, Attack, and Distortion
  • Rugged construction ideal for stage and studio use
  • Part of the renowned Ibanez 9 series known for quality and reliability

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model SM-9 Super Metal
Finish Blue
Year 1980s
Made In Japan
Categories Distortion Pedals

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Ibanez SM9 Super Metal pedal?

The Ibanez SM9 Super Metal pedal delivers a high-gain distortion with a pronounced midrange, making it ideal for heavy metal and hard rock genres. It provides a powerful, aggressive tone that cuts through the mix.

Does the Ibanez SM9 Super Metal work well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups?

Yes, the Ibanez SM9 Super Metal is designed to perform well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups, offering consistent distortion and tonal character regardless of pickup type.

Is the Ibanez SM9 Super Metal pedal suitable for live performances?

The Ibanez SM9 Super Metal is well-suited for live performances, thanks to its robust build and ability to deliver a consistent, powerful distortion sound that can fill a venue.

How does the Ibanez SM9 Super Metal compare to other distortion pedals from the 1980s?

The Ibanez SM9 Super Metal is known for its unique midrange emphasis and high-gain output, distinguishing it from other 1980s distortion pedals that often focused more on low-end or high-end frequencies.

Can the Ibanez SM9 Super Metal be powered with a standard 9V power supply?

Yes, the Ibanez SM9 Super Metal can be powered using a standard 9V power supply, making it easy to integrate into most pedalboards.

Jonathan Mirow

Jonathan Mirow

Ibanez SM9 Super Metal Pedal!

Video thumbnail for Ibanez SM9 Super Metal Pedal! by Jonathan Mirow

Ibanez SM9 Super Metal Pedal!

Jonathan Mirow

Jonathan Mirow

Video thumbnail for Ibanez SM-9 Super Metal low gain setting. by Slinkyguitarnerd

Ibanez SM-9 Super Metal low gain setting.

Slinkyguitarnerd

Slinkyguitarnerd

Video thumbnail for Ibanez Super Metal SM9 from the 80s by Ace Guitar

Ibanez Super Metal SM9 from the 80s

Ace Guitar

Ace Guitar

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez SM9 Super Metal.

Features and functionality

  • The SM-9 is known for its high gain, allowing for a range from subtle dirt to extreme metal tones, but lacks extensive tone-shaping flexibility.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's favored for grunge and indie rock, with versatility to deliver crunch, sludge, or high-gain sounds, suitable for bands with varied styles.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners appreciate its unique 80s-era sound, with comparisons to pedals used by well-known grunge bands, suggesting historical relevance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to Boss SD-1, the SM-9 offers a distinct sound but is not considered irreplaceable by some users who prefer the SD-1's tonal qualities.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kurt Cobain uses Ibanez SM9 Super Metal

Kurt Cobain

Singer, Guitarist

Nirvana

...
Verified via YouTube

During the January 28 - 30, 1994 sessions at Bob Lang's Studio, in Seattle, Kurt Cobain used an Ibanez SM9 Super Metal for the guitar sound.

See how John McGeoch uses Ibanez SM9 Super Metal

John McGeoch

Guitarist

Siouxsie & the Banshees

...
Verified via Photo

According to this scanned copy of the publication The Armoury Show, John is shown as using an "Ibanez SM9 Super Metal" in his setup.

See how Bruce Kulick uses Ibanez SM9 Super Metal

Bruce Kulick

Guitarist

Kiss

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo (source), the Ibanez SM9 super metal can be seen.

See how Paul Wilson uses Ibanez SM9 Super Metal

Paul Wilson

Bassist, Composer

Snow Patrol

...
Verified via Photo

According to this photo, Wilson also has Ibanez SM9 pedal.

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 Ibanez SM9 Super Metal, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

MXR M134 Stereo Chorus
MXR M134 Stereo Chorus Chorus Effects Pedals
1
Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer
Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer Overdrive Effects Pedals
1

4 alternative and related items for Ibanez SM9 Super Metal, curated by the Equipboard community.

Ibanez Super Metal Mini Pedal

$107.57 - $119.99

newer similar sound

The Ibanez Mini Super Metal is a smaller footprint, reissue version of the original SM9.

Maxon SM-9 Pro+ Super Metal Distortion Pedal

$169.97 - $220.00

newer similar sound mod

The Maxon SM-9 Pro+ is an updated, reissue version of the briefly produced Ibanez Super Metal, with an altered control set.

Maxon SM-01 Super Metal
Vintage or Discontinued similar sound cheaper alternative

The Maxon SM-01 was a Japan only variant of the SM9, marketed by Maxon.

Ibanez Super Metal SML

$78.54

similar sound

Released as part of the Legend series, the SML Super Metal was a repackaged version of the SM9 circuit, with minimal if any technical changes.

More Ibanez Distortion Effects Pedals

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Gear Guides