MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter

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$100.00 Price Tier: Standard

4.5 (4)

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated Jun 18, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 18, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

5.0 (8)

$100.00 24 available Used

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Average Price: $100

Standard/Professional

$70

$251+

Price Tier

In the Filter Effects Pedals category, MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

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Unleash a world of funky grooves and dynamic wah effects with the MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter. Perfectly tailored for guitarists who crave a responsive and expressive filter pedal, this unit transforms every note into a dance of vibrant, shifting tones. Whether you're diving into psychedelic soundscapes or laying down funk-infused rhythms, the MXR MX-120 delivers with precision and flair.

With its intuitive control layout, the MX-120 makes it easy to dial in the perfect filter sweep. The threshold and attack controls allow you to shape the envelope's response to your playing style, ensuring that every nuance is captured and articulated. This pedal is engineered for those who value both creativity and control in their sound.

Constructed with a robust chassis, the MXR MX-120 is built to withstand the rigors of live performances while maintaining its pristine sound quality. It's a staple for any pedalboard, whether you're in the studio crafting new tracks or on stage delivering electrifying performances.

Key Features:

Threshold and attack controls for precise envelope shaping
Responsive filter effect that adapts to your playing dynamics
Rugged construction for durability in live settings
Suitable for a variety of musical styles, from funk to rock

Product specs

Brand	MXR
Model	MX-120 Envelope Filter
Finish	Cream
Year	1976 - 1979
Made In	United States
Categories	Filter and Wah Pedals
Pedal Format	Standard

FAQs

What does the MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter do for my guitar tone?: The MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter dynamically alters your guitar's tone based on your playing intensity, creating auto-wah effects that respond to your picking attack. This pedal is ideal for funk and rock styles, adding expressive, vocal-like qualities to your sound.
Is the MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter suitable for bass guitar?: Yes, the MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter works well with bass guitar, providing a dynamic, responsive effect that enhances low-end funk grooves and adds character to bass lines.
Does the MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter require a specific power supply?: The MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter typically requires a 9V battery or a compatible 9V DC power supply, making it easy to integrate into your existing pedalboard setup.
How does the MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter compare to a traditional wah pedal?: Unlike a traditional wah pedal that requires manual foot control, the MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter automatically responds to your playing dynamics, offering hands-free operation and a more fluid, expressive sound.
Can the MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter be used in a live performance setting?: Absolutely, the MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter is designed for both studio and live use, providing reliable performance and a wide range of expressive tones that enhance live guitar performances.

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Reviews

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PROS

Produces distinct, round, vowel-like tones unmatched by other filters
Captures the iconic sound of late 70's Jerry Garcia
Simple two-control interface offers a straightforward user experience
Consistently praised for its warm, organic sound quality
Durable enough to withstand modifications, like adding a 9V jack

CONS

Lacks an LED indicator for on/off status
Controls can be challenging to dial in precisely

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MXR MX-120 Envelope Filter.

Features and functionality

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The voltage drop to around 4.5V affects the envelope emphasis, which can alter the pedal's response if adjusted outside the 3k ± 1k resistor range.
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The 3k resistor appears to bias the original transistor's base at 4.5V, potentially maintaining the intended tone characteristics.
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The sensitivity and Q knobs significantly shape the wah effect's intensity and duration, requiring delicate adjustments based on playing dynamics.
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Use cases and applications

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The design might intentionally avoid greater headroom to prevent distortion, as the MX-120 is not meant to have distortion built in.
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The MXR Envelope Filter is favored in recording settings for its versatile sound; however, live performances may require adjustments due to amp variability.
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User experience

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Owners experimenting with voltage extremes report the filter response becomes unusual, suggesting the design's voltage choice is crucial for optimal performance.
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Marking settings with painters tape can help quickly recall preferred sounds during performances, especially when using house amps.
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Comparisons

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The Electro-Harmonix Bass Balls pedal is praised for its consistent performance and simplicity, serving as a reliable alternative for those seeking a straightforward filter effect.
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