Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $159
Standard/Professional
$80
$181+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Unleash your inner metal beast with the Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter, a distortion pedal built for those who dare to venture into the realms of extreme sound. This pedal takes the famous Swedish chainsaw-buzz tone and cranks it up to eleven, providing a modern twist on a classic sound. Whether you're summoning the spirit of '80s death metal or crafting your unique auditory assault, the Hell Melter delivers with precision and power.
The Hell Melter is equipped with a parametric mids control that lets you sculpt your midrange frequencies for a tailor-made sonic landscape. Choose between Normal and Burn modes: Normal mode gives you the classic chainsaw sound, while Burn mode elevates your distortion experience with increased headroom and a more open clipping sound. The pedal also includes a footswitchable boost section, allowing you to add both input gain and volume boost when you need to cut through the mix.
Designed for versatility, this pedal's active EQ offers precise control over your sound, and the Dry Level control ensures your low end remains intact even under heavy distortion. A built-in noise gate keeps unwanted hum at bay, letting your riffs ring clear and true. Ideal for both guitar and bass, the Hell Melter is your gateway to the underworld of distortion.
Key Features:
- Classic heavy metal circuit with expanded controls
- Active EQ with parametric mids for versatile tone shaping
- Normal/Burn switch for varied clipping options
- Footswitchable boost section for enhanced gain and volume
- Dry Level control for blending input signal
- Built-in noise gate to reduce unwanted noise
- Comes with a 9V power supply included
Owner's manual
Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter User ManualProduct specs
| Pedal Type | Distortion |
| Analog/Digital | Analog |
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Outputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Bypass Switching | Buffered |
| EQ | Active 3-band EQ, Mid-Freq |
| Controls | Normal/Burn Modes, Dry Level, Gate, Distortion Level, Boost Switch |
| Power Source | 9.6V DC 200mA power supply (included) |
| Power Usage | 140mA |
| Height | 2.25" |
| Width | 4.75" |
| Depth | 4" |
FAQs
-
What kind of distortion tones can the Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter produce?
-
The Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter offers a wide range of distortion tones, from trebly thrash sounds to warmer, mid-focused classic-metal vibes. Its versatile controls allow for detailed tone sculpting suitable for various metal styles.
-
Does the Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter include a noise gate feature?
-
Yes, the Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter includes a gate control, which helps reduce unwanted noise and maintain a clean signal during high-gain settings.
-
What power requirements does the Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter have?
-
The Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter requires a 9.6V DC power supply with a power usage of 140mA. The necessary power supply is included with the pedal.
-
Can the Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter be used with a buffered bypass?
-
Yes, the Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter features buffered bypass switching, which helps maintain signal integrity across long cable runs and complex pedal setups.
-
How does the Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter handle EQ adjustments?
-
The Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter is equipped with an active 3-band EQ and a mid-frequency control, allowing for precise tonal adjustments to suit different musical styles and preferences.
Videos
EHX
Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter Distortion Pedal
Reviews
PROS
-
Accurately captures the Swedish Chainsaw Death Metal Distortion
-
Offers more versatility than the original Boss HM2 with extra features
-
Built-in gate, dry level knob, and boost gain footswitch enhance sound control
-
Provides clarity of sound without sacrificing distortion quality
-
Suitable for a range of genres beyond metal, including country and bass
-
Allows for modern metal tones and classic HM-2/MT-2 sounds
-
Clean blend feature offers creative flexibility in sound shaping
-
Built-in boost function can add extra power when needed
-
Robust construction with high-quality components
-
Retains low end effectively, suitable for bass applications
CONS
-
Some users find it to be a one-trick pony, mainly offering high distortion
-
Over the entire distortion range, tonal changes may seem minimal
-
Small pot knobs can be difficult to adjust, especially during live performances
-
Clean signal blending and boost cannot be used independently
-
Volume reduction on the guitar doesn't clean up the tone as expected
-
Pickup type does not significantly alter the pedal's sound
-
Limited utility for playing full chords; best suited for power chords and solos
-
Some may find the pedal more of a niche or specialized tool rather than a daily driver
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter.
Features and functionality
-
The Hell Melter includes a footswitchable boost that drives the pedal harder and a clean blend, offering versatile tonal shaping.
Source -
The pedal comes with a semi-parametric mid control and diode lift for a high-headroom/overdrive mode.
Source -
It incorporates a built-in gate, which some users note is crucial for reducing noise and squealing common in similar pedals.
Source -
This model uses top-mount jacks, a feature not commonly seen in all Electro-Harmonix pedals, enhancing its compatibility with pedalboards.
Source -
Despite concerns, the EHX Hell Melter's clean blend feature enhances its usability with bass, according to owner feedback.
Source
Comparisons
-
Positioned as a significant upgrade over the Boss HM-2w, yet priced competitively, similar to the KMA Wurm in terms of features.
Source -
Not necessarily comparable to the Metal Muff, as the Hell Melter aligns more with an HM-2/3 style and sound.
Source -
Some users suggest opting for a Bass Big Muff for more dedicated bass performance if low-frequency handling is a priority.
Source
Value and pricing
-
The pricing humorously includes $6.66, which some users find appealing enough to sway their purchase decision.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
It's noted for its suitability in achieving sounds reminiscent of At The Gates' "Slaughter of the Soul," indicating its capability for metal genres.
Source -
The Hell Melter can work for bass, retaining decent low-end response and featuring a clean blend, making it suitable for bass players.
Source -
It's suggested that while the Hell Melter is versatile, a dedicated bass distortion pedal might better preserve low frequencies.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings
189
Great range of sound and easy to use.
I get a lot of options when playing with this and I get to cover a wide range of distortion sounds in one pedal. Absolutely in love when playing with it.
Artist usage
Add artist
In the YouTube video titled "Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter BASS DEMO," Nate Navarro demonstrates the Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter, a heavy distortion effects pedal. Navarro showcases its features, including its unique distortion capabilities, adjustable Low, Mid, and High Frequency knobs, a Dry and Gate knob, and a switch for NORM and BURN modes, providing bassists with a range of aggressive distorted tones while maintaining clarity.
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 Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursSimilar
Add recommendation1 alternative for Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter, curated by the Equipboard community.
$93.35
More Electro-Harmonix Distortion Effects Pedals
Accessories & Related Items
Gear Guides
Most Popular Distortion Effects Pedals
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
adam_hudsonGear IQ 70
-