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Average Price: $159

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$100

$301+

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Description

Unleash a world of creative sound manipulation with the Malekko Scrutator, a dynamic addition to any guitarist's effects arsenal. This versatile bitcrusher and filter pedal is designed for those seeking to explore the limitless possibilities of sound shaping. Whether you're a seasoned performer or an experimental studio musician, the Scrutator offers a unique approach to crafting your sonic identity.

The pedal's standout feature is its ability to deliver gritty, lo-fi textures through precise bit reduction and sample rate control. With its intuitive interface, you can effortlessly dial in anything from subtle harmonic enhancements to dramatic, speaker-shattering distortion. The inclusion of a high-pass and low-pass filter allows further tonal refinement, making it easy to sculpt your sound to perfection.

Engage the expression pedal input for real-time control over any parameter, providing endless opportunities for live performance innovation. Additionally, the Scrutator's compact design ensures it fits seamlessly into any pedalboard setup, making it a perfect companion for gigs and studio sessions alike.

Key Features:

  • Bitcrusher with adjustable bit depth and sample rate
  • High-pass and low-pass filters for precise tonal shaping
  • Expression pedal input for real-time parameter control
  • True bypass switching for pure signal integrity
  • Compact and pedalboard-friendly design

Product specs

Brand Malekko
Model Scrutator
Finish Graphic
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Distortion Pedals, Noise Generator Pedals

FAQs

What kind of effects does the Malekko Scrutator offer?

The Malekko Scrutator is a bitcrusher and sample rate reducer pedal, offering gritty, lo-fi effects that can drastically alter your sound by reducing bit depth and sample rate.

Is the Malekko Scrutator suitable for use with both guitar and bass?

Yes, the Malekko Scrutator works well with both guitar and bass, providing unique distortion and bitcrushing effects that can enhance a variety of musical styles.

Does the Malekko Scrutator require a specific power supply?

The Malekko Scrutator requires a standard 9V DC power supply, which is common for most guitar pedals, ensuring easy integration into your pedalboard.

How does the Malekko Scrutator differ from other bitcrusher pedals?

The Malekko Scrutator stands out with its CV input for external control and its ability to adjust both bit depth and sample rate, offering more versatility and creative control than many other bitcrusher pedals.

Can the Malekko Scrutator be used in a live performance setting?

Yes, the Malekko Scrutator is well-suited for live performances, offering robust build quality and intuitive controls that make it easy to dial in and adjust effects on the fly.

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Malekko Scrutator Bit + Sample Rate Reducer

Video thumbnail for Malekko Scrutator Bit + Sample Rate Reducer by ProGuitarShopDemos

Malekko Scrutator Bit + Sample Rate Reducer

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for PedalsAndEffects: Scrutator by Malekko by Pedals and Effects

PedalsAndEffects: Scrutator by Malekko

Pedals and Effects

Pedals and Effects

Video thumbnail for Malekko - Scrutator - Bitcrusher by Dennis Kayzer

Malekko - Scrutator - Bitcrusher

Dennis Kayzer

Dennis Kayzer

Video thumbnail for Malekko SCRUTATOR official factory video by Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko SCRUTATOR official factory video

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Video thumbnail for Malekko SCRUTATOR official factory video 2 by Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko SCRUTATOR official factory video 2

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Video thumbnail for Malekko SCRUTATOR bit & sample rate reducer pedal teaser by Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko SCRUTATOR bit & sample rate reducer pedal teaser

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Video thumbnail for Malekko Scrutator Unboxing Bass Demo | Sick! by Steve Blanco Musician Warrior

Malekko Scrutator Unboxing Bass Demo | Sick!

Steve Blanco Musician Warrior

Steve Blanco Musician Warrior

Video thumbnail for Rhodes Pedal Demos - Malekko Scrutator by Peder Kolsung

Rhodes Pedal Demos - Malekko Scrutator

Peder Kolsung

Peder Kolsung

Reviews

PROS

  • Lo-fi sound adds unique texture

  • Filter applied only to wet side enhances effects

  • Gain knob with overdrive LED indicator

  • Mix knob allows blending of signals

  • High-quality preamp produces great electronic textures

  • Programmable with up to four CV assignments

  • Versatile use for bass with low pass filter mode

  • Expression pedal can be assigned to four functions

  • Intuitive controls enable easy sound customization

  • Can be used as a Bitcrusher/Ring mod, crunchy boost, noise generator, and more

CONS

  • Learning curve for knob-expression assignments

  • Some expression pedals may operate in reverse without a reverse switch

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Malekko Scrutator.

Features and functionality

  • The Malekko Scrutator includes a preamp/gain feature and a low-pass filter with resonance, along with a CV/expression pedal input for added control.

    Source
  • The pedal's ability to mimic the sound of a dead boss in Contra highlights its proficiency in capturing complex, nostalgic soundscapes.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the Scrutator's unique features, though comparisons often highlight the aggressive sound of the WMD Geiger Counter and the versatility of the Bit Quest.

    Source
  • Some owners find the Catalinbread Heliotrope appealing due to its analog nature, although its effect differs from traditional bitcrushers.

    Source
  • A firsthand encounter in a Portland shop led to an immediate purchase, suggesting that in-person demos effectively highlight the Scrutator's unique qualities.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Scrutator is noted for its distinct preamp/gain and filter, while the Heliotrope is an analog pedal with a sound resembling bitcrushing but operates more like a ring modulator.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The expression pedal input on the Scrutator is frequently highlighted as enhancing its functionality and user experience.

    Source
  • The Scrutator can emulate sounds from classic video games like Rad Racer and Arkanoid, offering a nostalgic appeal for retro gaming enthusiasts in music production.

    Source
  • With the filter off and mix at 100%, the Scrutator delivers a synth-like bass sound, similar to modern electronic music's sub bass tones.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Malekko Scrutator Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Malekko Scrutator is a versatile bit-crusher that excels in delivering unique and experimental sounds. It offers a wide range of control in a compact package, making it ideal for creative musicians looking to break away from traditional tones. The inclusion of a mix control is a standout feature, allowing users to blend radical effects subtly. However, the ability to switch between filter modes without powering down would enhance usability. Despite its quirks, the Scrutator is a treasure trove of sonic possibilities for adventurous guitarists. Traditionalists may not find it appealing, but for those eager to explore, it’s a must-try.

positive

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
cerebullet

All I could want out of a bitcrusher

Does what it's supposed to along with loads of options on tap. Reduce sample rate and/or bit rate as needed, both work just fine independently depending on the kind of sound you're looking for. I also really appreciate the mix and preamp knobs there so that one can maintain some sense of control over the lovely trash you can generate and punch it up if the input's just too damn quiet.

Have fun with filters! Read the manual and learn how to switch between band-pass and high-pass modes depending on what suits your instrument best. You can even make this pedal sound like a terribly atonal, tinnitus-tier ring mod like what Lastgasp's Sick Pitch King units can do — but with additional bitcrushing! God, I love hurting my ears!

The expression input is a great addition, but I docked a star from my rating as it's difficult to set and undo parameters associated to my expression pedal during setup. It was unintuitive for me and still is, but that might just be a me problem.

Anyway, this sounds great on bass, drums and synths. Praise Malekko.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Sounds its worst (meaning best here) @ band-pass with the filter knob around noon and the Q/amplitude knob almost anywhere east. Generates a constant shrill ring as you play.

From Gear Setup

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Isaac Brock uses Malekko Scrutator

Isaac Brock

Guitarist

Modest Mouse

...
Verified via YouTube

In the official factory video by Malekko HeavyIndustry, Isaac Brock uses the Malekko Scrutator, describing its sound as reminiscent of an Atari.

See how Matt McJunkins uses Malekko Scrutator

Matt McJunkins

Guitarist, Bassist

A Perfect Circle

...
Verified via YouTube

From 20:05 Matt demonstrates the Malekko scrutator

See how Dave Catching uses Malekko Scrutator

Dave Catching

Guitarist, Bassist

Queens of the Stone Age

...
Verified via YouTube

At 10.39 onwards Dave talks about his pedal rig.

https://youtu.be/88vqY618SUk?t=639

Jim Dunlop Cry Baby Wah Jim Dunlop Rotovibe EaethQuaker Devices Palisades Fulltone Ultimate Octave Fuzz TC Electronic T2 Hall of Fame EarthQuaker Devices Dispatch Master TC Electronic Flashback Triple Delay Mantic Flex Malekko Scrutator

See how David Catching uses Malekko Scrutator

David Catching

Guitarist

Queens of the Stone Age

...
Verified via Premierguitar

Catching uses the Scructator at the end of the Eagles of Death Metal's shows while dueling guitars with their other guitarist, Jesse Hughes.

Album Usage

The Malekko Scrutator has been featured on the following albums:

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Malekko Scrutator, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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cerebullet

cerebullet

Gear IQ 152

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