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Description

Step into a world of expressive sound shaping with the Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III, a modern take on the iconic envelope filter pedal. This compact powerhouse brings the classic Mu-Tron quack to your pedalboard, ideal for both guitarists and bassists seeking that signature funk and soul vibe. The Micro-Tron III is equipped with a precise, optical envelope filter that delivers smooth and dynamic responses to your playing style.

This pedal is inspired by the classic Mu-Tron sound but offers more control and reliability. Its simple layout includes controls for Peak, Gain, and Mode, allowing you to sculpt your sound with ease. Switch between low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass filter modes to explore a wide range of sonic textures, from deep, resonant sweeps to sharp, percussive peaks. The Gain control helps dial in the sensitivity of the envelope, making it adaptable to different instruments and styles.

The Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III is designed with true bypass wiring, ensuring a clean signal path when the pedal is not engaged. Whether you're aiming for subtle tonal shifts or dramatic filter sweeps, this pedal offers the versatility and quality that musicians have come to expect from Mu-Tron. Perfect for live performance and studio recording, it's a must-have for any musician looking to add a unique voice to their setup.

Key Features:

  • Classic Mu-Tron envelope filter sound with modern enhancements
  • Optical envelope filter for smooth, responsive dynamics
  • Peak, Gain, and Mode controls for precise sound shaping
  • Low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass filter modes
  • True bypass wiring for signal purity
  • Durable construction suitable for both stage and studio use

Product specs

Brand Mu-Tron
Model Micro-Tron III
Finish Black, Blue, Silver
Year 2017 - 2019
Categories Filter and Wah Pedals
Pedal Format Standard

FAQs

What type of effect does the Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III produce?

The Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III is an envelope filter pedal, also known as an auto-wah, which dynamically alters the tone based on your playing intensity, providing a quacky, funky sound ideal for guitar and bass.

Is the Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III suitable for bass guitar?

Yes, the Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III works well with bass guitars, providing a responsive and rich envelope filter effect that enhances basslines with funk and groove.

Does the Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III require a specific power supply?

The Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III requires a standard 9V DC power supply, which is common among guitar effects pedals, making it easy to integrate into existing pedalboards.

How does the Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III compare to other envelope filter pedals?

The Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III is known for its vintage-inspired sound, offering a classic, warm filter effect that stands out for its sensitivity and musicality, making it a favorite among funk and rock players.

Can the Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III be used in a live performance setting?

Absolutely, the Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III is designed for both studio and live performance use, providing reliable and consistent envelope filtering that enhances live sound dynamics.

Pedal of the Day

Pedal of the Day

Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III Envelope Filter Demo

Video thumbnail for Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III Envelope Filter Demo by Pedal of the Day

Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III Envelope Filter Demo

Pedal of the Day

Pedal of the Day

Video thumbnail for Mu-Tron Micro Tron III - Short Demo by Tri Pedal Reviews

Mu-Tron Micro Tron III - Short Demo

Tri Pedal Reviews

Tri Pedal Reviews

Video thumbnail for Q-Tron vs Microtron iii by Whirl-A Sound

Q-Tron vs Microtron iii

Whirl-A Sound

Whirl-A Sound

Video thumbnail for Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III Envelope Filter Pedal Demonstration by Sugaree Licks

Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III Envelope Filter Pedal Demonstration

Sugaree Licks

Sugaree Licks

Video thumbnail for Mu-Tron Micro Tron III Demo - Part 1 by 15 Second Gear Demo

Mu-Tron Micro Tron III Demo - Part 1

15 Second Gear Demo

15 Second Gear Demo

Video thumbnail for Mu-Tron Micro Tron III Demo - Part 3 by 15 Second Gear Demo

Mu-Tron Micro Tron III Demo - Part 3

15 Second Gear Demo

15 Second Gear Demo

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III.

Comparisons

  • The EHX Q-Tron series, designed by the same engineer as the Mu-Tron, offers a similar sound with the Qtron+ noted for its "super chewy rounded nature."

    Source
  • The Mu-FX Micro-Tron III and Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III appear identical except for enclosure color, suggesting differences may be cosmetic rather than functional.

    Source
  • The PastFX PX-101 is highlighted as a compelling alternative, offering Moogerfooger-style tones with true bypass and a smaller form factor, priced around $200 USD.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Source Audio Spectrum is praised for its 'Tron' mode and extensive tweakability, allowing precise control over signal and trigger sensitivity.

    Source
  • The MiniTron III replicates the original Mu-Tron circuit in a compact pedal with standard power requirements and an added level control, praised for its authentic sound.

    Source
  • The Micro-Tron IV's smaller footprint and 9V power requirement make it more convenient and less finicky than larger vintage units, while maintaining usability.

    Source

User experience

  • Concerns about Mu-Tron Micro-Tron's reliability and poor customer service discourage some users from purchasing.

    Source
  • The HAZ Mu Tron III+ is often criticized for its inferior sound quality compared to other versions, leading some to avoid it in favor of newer models.

    Source
  • The Micro-Tron IV requires a strong input signal; some users recommend using a boost pedal or high-output pickups to maintain consistent quacking across frequencies.

    Source
  • Owners report that the Micro-Tron IV can be challenging to dial in, with some preferring the EHX Q-Tron+ for more intuitive setup and sound.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • One setup involves pairing an Earthquaker Spatial Delivery envelope filter with a Lizard Queen pedal for a tone reminiscent of "Shakedown Street."

    Source
  • FARM Pedals offers a custom envelope filter closely resembling the vintage Mu-Tron III, recommended for achieving authentic Jerry tones.

    Source

Other

  • Some enthusiasts note attempts to use DLC chips for envelope speed settings, but this is controversial due to the complexity and space requirements.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The TruTron is highly regarded for its performance, but the Micro Tron III is favored by some for its smaller size, making it a better fit for crowded pedalboards.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Micro-Tron IV is praised for achieving Jerry Garcia-style tones, but requires careful dialing to match the quack of vintage units like the Musitronics Mu-Tron III.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III review on pedal-of-the-day.com

pedal-of-the-day.com

The Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III serves up classic funk and wah sounds in a compact design that’s both convenient and affordable. It retains essential features like the Mode and Gain controls while adding a Level knob for output volume, enhancing usability. The pedal excels on a variety of instruments, from guitars to keys, making it versatile for different music styles. However, while it impresses with its sound quality and modern updates, some may find it lacks the deep tonal complexities of its predecessor. Overall, it's a solid choice for musicians seeking a modern take on a legendary effect.

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Artist usage

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See how Ira Kaplan uses Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III

Ira Kaplan

Singer, Guitarist

Yo La Tengo

...
Verified via Photo

This picture of Ira Kaplan's pedalboard from the concert in Cologne on 4/23/2023 shows that he used a Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III during the 2023 European tour.

See how MISA uses Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III

MISA

Bassist

Band-Maid

...
Verified via Photo

As seen on Misa's story posted on 2019-11-17.

See how Lindsay Ell uses Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III

Lindsay Ell

Guitarist, Singer

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

In the "Rig Rundown: Lindsay Ell [2023]" interview conducted by John Bohlinger for Premier Guitar, Lindsay Ell confirms her use of the Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III pedal.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

3 alternative and related items for Mu-Tron Micro-Tron III, curated by the Equipboard community.

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Community setups

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    orionz06
    orionz06

    Gear IQ 1014