Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (107)
$229.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (22)
$229.99
Amazon
4.7 (551)
$229.99 New
$189.99 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (112)
$199.99 New
$119.99 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (28)
$229.99
zZounds
5.0 (7)
$229.99
Thomann
4.8 (78)
$199.00
Gear4Music
£219.00

Average Price: $209

High-end/Boutique

$50

$176+

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High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "MXR EVH5150 5150 Overdrive". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Crafted in partnership with legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen, the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive pedal is your ticket to achieving the iconic tones that defined a generation of rock. This pedal is a sonic powerhouse, designed to faithfully replicate the coveted Blue Channel sound of the EVH 5153 amp. Featuring a comprehensive array of controls—Output, Gain, and a 3-band EQ—you can customize your tone to perfection, whether you're aiming for the warmth of vintage overdrive or the precision of modern high-gain sound.

The 5150 Overdrive is not just about raw power; it also offers unmatched tonal clarity. The built-in Boost switch delivers additional gain and compression, allowing your solos to cut through any mix. Plus, the integrated Smart Gate function ensures your sound remains pristine by eliminating unwanted noise, making it an ideal choice for both studio recordings and live performances.

Housed in a robust, road-ready enclosure adorned with distinctive EVH artwork, this pedal is as visually striking as it is sonically impressive. Its true-bypass design guarantees your signal remains pure when the pedal is disengaged, maintaining the integrity of your guitar's natural tone.

Key Features:

  • Designed in collaboration with Eddie Van Halen
  • Replicates the Blue Channel of the EVH 5153 amp
  • 3-band EQ for customized tone shaping
  • Built-in Boost switch for enhanced gain and compression
  • Smart Gate for noise reduction
  • True-bypass switching
  • Operates on a 9V battery or power supply
  • Durable metal housing with custom EVH artwork

Product specs

Pedal Type Overdrive
Analog/Digital Analog
Controls Knobs: Output, Bass, Mid, Treble, Gain, Gate; Buttons: Boost
Number of Footswitch Buttons 1
EQ 3-band EQ
Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 1 x 1/4"
Bypass Switching True Hardwire
Power Source 9V DC power supply required (sold separately)
Batteries 1 x 9V
Height 1.5"
Width 5"
Depth 3.75"

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive pedal?

The MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive delivers high-gain, saturated tones ideal for rock and metal, inspired by Eddie Van Halen's signature sound. Its 3-band EQ allows for tonal customization, making it versatile for various playing styles.

Does the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive work well with a bass guitar?

While primarily designed for electric guitars, the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive can be used with bass guitars, but it may require additional EQ adjustments to maintain low-end clarity.

What power supply does the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive require?

The MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately, or it can be powered by a 9V battery.

How does the boost function on the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive affect the sound?

The boost function enhances the pedal's gain, providing an extra layer of overdrive for more aggressive and pronounced tones, perfect for solos or heavier rhythm sections.

Is the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive suitable for beginners?

The MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive is user-friendly with straightforward controls, making it accessible for beginners who want to explore high-gain overdrive tones. However, it is also powerful enough to satisfy advanced players.

Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

EVH 5150 OVERDRIVE demo #2 by Pete Thorn

Video thumbnail for EVH 5150 OVERDRIVE demo #2 by Pete Thorn by Pete Thorn

EVH 5150 OVERDRIVE demo #2 by Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Video thumbnail for MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive by ProGuitarShopDemos

MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for EVH 5150 OVERDRIVE, demo by Pete Thorn by Pete Thorn

EVH 5150 OVERDRIVE, demo by Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Video thumbnail for MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive by Ola Englund

MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive

Ola Englund

Ola Englund

Video thumbnail for MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive | Reverb Video Demo by Reverb

MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive | Reverb Video Demo

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for Big Hairy Guitars - MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive Pedal by Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

Big Hairy Guitars - MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive Pedal

Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

Video thumbnail for MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive Pedal Review - How Does It Compare?? by Mad Man Music

MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive Pedal Review - How Does It Compare??

Mad Man Music

Mad Man Music

Reviews

PROS

  • Built-in smart noise gate effectively eliminates unwanted hiss

  • Provides a powerful, crunchy tone suitable for metal and rock

  • Versatile EQ with a three-band configuration for tailored sound shaping

  • Compact form factor with top-mounted sockets and battery slot underneath

  • Offers a "brown sound" reminiscent of Eddie Van Halen's tone

  • Functions well as a pre-amp stage before a power-amp simulator

  • Consistently delivers high gain, distortion-like tones

  • User-friendly with clear output volume control regardless of gain setting

  • Well-built with a durable design, ideal for frequent use

CONS

  • Passive EQ may lack depth for some users

  • Boost function is subtle and may require an additional pedal

  • Advertised as an overdrive, but performs more like a distortion pedal

  • Lacks an external switch for controlling the boost function

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MXR EVH5150 5150 Overdrive.

Features and functionality

  • The built-in noise gate and boost are well-regarded, especially when combined with a Tube Screamer for a tight, saturated tone.

    Source
  • The pedal provides more gain than needed, making it suitable for pushing amp fronts hard while retaining tone clarity.

    Source
  • The boost is more of a compression toggle rather than a volume boost, which some users find subtle enough not to require an additional footswitch.

    Source
  • The built-in adjustable noise gate is highly praised for maintaining a clean sound, enhancing overall performance.

    Source
  • The small 'Boost' button and 'Gate' knob are impractical for live use, with users suggesting separate footswitches for better accessibility.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Effective for achieving a Black Dahlia Murder style death metal rhythm tone when used with a clean channel, particularly with Marshall DSL amps.

    Source
  • Ideal for recreating Gojira tones when settings are kept at noon with gain slightly increased, used with a clean channel and additional reverb.

    Source
  • Brendon Small used it for rhythm tracks on the Galaktikon 2 album, highlighting its capability for professional recording scenarios.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find it excels when used through the front end of an amp rather than as a standalone preamp.

    Source
  • Owners find the pedal versatile, useful for both classic "Mean Streets" tones and more modern chugging styles.

    Source
  • Despite owning a 5150 and 6505+, users regret selling this pedal due to its distinct sound and versatility.

    Source
  • Some users report a brief signal drop when activating the footswitch, which can be slightly disruptive in live settings.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users consider the Mooer 005 as a higher quality, more authentic-sounding alternative, though the MXR 5150 is praised for its versatility.

    Source
  • The Mosky TW Distortion is preferred by some for its performance and value, being about a third of the EVH 5150's cost.

    Source

Build quality

  • The pedal's black-on-black Van Halen stripes are visually appealing, but the enclosure could be slimmer for better pedalboard integration.

    Source

Critic Reviews

MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The MXR EVH5150 5150 Overdrive is a powerhouse pedal that captures the essence of Eddie Van Halen's iconic "Brown Sound" while offering versatility beyond just his signature tones. With its robust EQ, drive, and gating controls, it provides a wide array of sonic possibilities, making it a valuable tool for both classic and modern rock settings. The Smart Gate feature is a standout, keeping noise in check even at high gain levels. Although its price point may be a bit steep for some, its ability to outperform many boutique pedals makes it a worthwhile investment for serious musicians.

positive

MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive delivers a modern take on Eddie Van Halen's legendary tone, packaged in a robust, easy-to-use design. While it doesn't quite capture the vintage 'brown' sound, its smooth, non-processed overdrive and effective noise gate are standout features. Ideal for those seeking a modern twist on classic tones, but if you're after the quintessential vintage Eddie vibe, you might need to look elsewhere.

positive

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