Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (11)
$176.66
Guitar Center
4.0 (3)
$176.66
Amazon
4.4 (12)
$176.66 New
$85.00 Used (Like New)
Reverb
4.0 (7)
$127.68 New
$101.00 Used
zZounds
5.0 (2)
$176.66
Thomann
4.5 (6)
$156.00 $140.00 $16.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£156.25

Average Price: $159

Standard/Professional

$80

$181+

Price Tier

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Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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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 Manual

Product 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.

EHX

EHX

Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter Distortion Pedal

Video thumbnail for Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter Distortion Pedal by EHX

Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter Distortion Pedal

EHX

EHX

Video thumbnail for STRAIGHT TO HELL AND BACK - EHX HELLMELTER by Ola Englund

STRAIGHT TO HELL AND BACK - EHX HELLMELTER

Ola Englund

Ola Englund

Video thumbnail for Face-melting Madness with the Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter by Sweetwater

Face-melting Madness with the Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter BASS DEMO by Nate Navarro

Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter BASS DEMO

Nate Navarro

Nate Navarro

Video thumbnail for ELECTRO-HARMONIX HELL MELTER SUPER DEMO/REVIEW!!! by Kevin Frasard

ELECTRO-HARMONIX HELL MELTER SUPER DEMO/REVIEW!!!

Kevin Frasard

Kevin Frasard

Video thumbnail for EHX Hell Melter Review and comparison (HM-2w) by Doctor Fuzz'z Dirt Box

EHX Hell Melter Review and comparison (HM-2w)

Doctor Fuzz'z Dirt Box

Doctor Fuzz'z Dirt Box

Video thumbnail for Mass produced Boutique Chainsaw? Electro Harmonix EHX Hell Melter vs Boss HM-2 (The Chainsaw Files) by Dome

Mass produced Boutique Chainsaw? Electro Harmonix EHX Hell Melter vs Boss HM-2 (The Chainsaw Files)

Dome

Dome

Video thumbnail for Electro-Harmonix HELL MELTER vs. Boss HM-2 by HM2 CULT

Electro-Harmonix HELL MELTER vs. Boss HM-2

HM2 CULT

HM2 CULT

Video thumbnail for NEW!! "EHX Hell Melter" KILLER Tones that just may Melt Hell by 6StringStanger

NEW!! "EHX Hell Melter" KILLER Tones that just may Melt Hell

6StringStanger

6StringStanger

Video thumbnail for MusicMaker Presents - ELECTRO HARMONIX HELL MELTER - A Chainsaw Distortion Pedal Based On A Classic! by Musicmaker

MusicMaker Presents - ELECTRO HARMONIX HELL MELTER - A Chainsaw Distortion Pedal Based On A Classic!

Musicmaker

Musicmaker

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

EHX’s Hell Melter is the HM-2 you’ve always dreamed of

guitar.com

The Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter reimagines the classic HM-2 with a host of modern features, delivering ferocious metal tones with ease. Its solid build and striking artwork capture attention, while enhancements like parametric EQ and a noise gate elevate its utility. However, the smooth plastic knobs can be frustratingly hard to grip, detracting from an otherwise stellar experience. The pedal shines in both "normal" and "burn" modes, offering versatility for players seeking that iconic chainsaw sound without the chaos. While it can introduce noise issues in certain setups, the Hell Melter ultimately proves to be a thrilling addition for metal enthusiasts, making it worth a try.

positive

EHX Hell Melter Guitar Pedal - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter delivers a brutal and versatile distortion experience, boasting eight controls for fine-tuning your sound. While it excels at achieving aggressive tones ideal for metal, its complexity can make dialing in some fundamental sounds challenging. The built-in noise gate is a welcome addition, keeping unwanted noise at bay. With its ability to produce everything from classic rock to Swedish death metal, the Hell Melter proves to be a worthy addition to any pedalboard. At a price point of $176.66, it offers excellent value, especially for those seeking a robust gain machine.

positive
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4.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
dgre
dgre

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.

quaraintined_buritto

LIVE THIS PEDAL

I saw this pedal on a Nate Navarro video and i wanted it but i couldn’t get it, but for my 18th birthday my best friend gave it to me because he had bought it and didn’t like it

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Ola Englund uses Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter

Ola Englund

Guitarist, Podcasters & Streamers

Six Feet Under

...
Verified via YouTube

The pedal can be seen on this video.

N

Nate Navarro

Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

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.

Used With

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1 alternative for Electro-Harmonix Hell Melter, curated by the Equipboard community.

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