Pricing and availability
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Price
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
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What kind of tones can I expect from the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive pedal?
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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.
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Does the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive work well with a bass guitar?
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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.
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What power supply does the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive require?
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The MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately, or it can be powered by a 9V battery.
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How does the boost function on the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive affect the sound?
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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.
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Is the MXR EVH 5150 Overdrive suitable for beginners?
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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.
Videos
Pete Thorn
EVH 5150 OVERDRIVE demo #2 by Pete Thorn
Reviews
PROS
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Built-in smart noise gate effectively eliminates unwanted hiss
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Provides a powerful, crunchy tone suitable for metal and rock
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Versatile EQ with a three-band configuration for tailored sound shaping
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Compact form factor with top-mounted sockets and battery slot underneath
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Offers a "brown sound" reminiscent of Eddie Van Halen's tone
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Functions well as a pre-amp stage before a power-amp simulator
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Consistently delivers high gain, distortion-like tones
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User-friendly with clear output volume control regardless of gain setting
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Well-built with a durable design, ideal for frequent use
CONS
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Passive EQ may lack depth for some users
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Boost function is subtle and may require an additional pedal
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Advertised as an overdrive, but performs more like a distortion pedal
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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
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The built-in noise gate and boost are well-regarded, especially when combined with a Tube Screamer for a tight, saturated tone.
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The pedal provides more gain than needed, making it suitable for pushing amp fronts hard while retaining tone clarity.
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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.
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The built-in adjustable noise gate is highly praised for maintaining a clean sound, enhancing overall performance.
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The small 'Boost' button and 'Gate' knob are impractical for live use, with users suggesting separate footswitches for better accessibility.
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Use cases and applications
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Effective for achieving a Black Dahlia Murder style death metal rhythm tone when used with a clean channel, particularly with Marshall DSL amps.
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Ideal for recreating Gojira tones when settings are kept at noon with gain slightly increased, used with a clean channel and additional reverb.
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Brendon Small used it for rhythm tracks on the Galaktikon 2 album, highlighting its capability for professional recording scenarios.
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User experience
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Owners find it excels when used through the front end of an amp rather than as a standalone preamp.
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Owners find the pedal versatile, useful for both classic "Mean Streets" tones and more modern chugging styles.
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Despite owning a 5150 and 6505+, users regret selling this pedal due to its distinct sound and versatility.
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Some users report a brief signal drop when activating the footswitch, which can be slightly disruptive in live settings.
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Comparisons
Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
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