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Average Price: $159
Standard/Professional
$100
$301+
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Budget
Standard
High-end
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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
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What kind of effects does the Malekko Scrutator offer?
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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.
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Is the Malekko Scrutator suitable for use with both guitar and bass?
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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.
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Does the Malekko Scrutator require a specific power supply?
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The Malekko Scrutator requires a standard 9V DC power supply, which is common for most guitar pedals, ensuring easy integration into your pedalboard.
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How does the Malekko Scrutator differ from other bitcrusher pedals?
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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.
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Can the Malekko Scrutator be used in a live performance setting?
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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.
Videos
ProGuitarShopDemos
Malekko Scrutator Bit + Sample Rate Reducer
Reviews
PROS
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Lo-fi sound adds unique texture
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Filter applied only to wet side enhances effects
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Gain knob with overdrive LED indicator
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Mix knob allows blending of signals
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High-quality preamp produces great electronic textures
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Programmable with up to four CV assignments
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Versatile use for bass with low pass filter mode
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Expression pedal can be assigned to four functions
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Intuitive controls enable easy sound customization
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Can be used as a Bitcrusher/Ring mod, crunchy boost, noise generator, and more
CONS
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Learning curve for knob-expression assignments
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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
User experience
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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.
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Some owners find the Catalinbread Heliotrope appealing due to its analog nature, although its effect differs from traditional bitcrushers.
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A firsthand encounter in a Portland shop led to an immediate purchase, suggesting that in-person demos effectively highlight the Scrutator's unique qualities.
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Comparisons
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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.
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Use cases and applications
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The expression pedal input on the Scrutator is frequently highlighted as enhancing its functionality and user experience.
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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.
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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.
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Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings
152
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.
Artist usage
Add artist
In the official factory video by Malekko HeavyIndustry, Isaac Brock uses the Malekko Scrutator, describing its sound as reminiscent of an Atari.
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
Album Usage
The Malekko Scrutator has been featured on the following albums:
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 Malekko Scrutator, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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