Pricing and availability
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Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $270
High-end/Boutique
$80
$181+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Wampler Pinnacle". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unleash the power of your guitar tone with the Wampler Pinnacle, a distortion effects pedal meticulously designed to replicate the coveted "brown sound" that defined the early '80s rock scene. Known for its versatility and dynamic response, this pedal is a must-have for any guitarist looking to inject their sound with vintage warmth and modern precision. Whether you're dialing up crunchy rhythms or soaring solos, the Pinnacle provides a rich palette of tones to explore.
Engineered with a dual gain stage, the Wampler Pinnacle delivers everything from subtle overdrive to a full-on sonic assault. The pedal's intuitive interface includes controls for volume, tone, contour, gain, and a boost switch, allowing you to craft a sound that's uniquely yours. With its carefully tuned EQ section, it offers exceptional clarity and definition, ensuring every note cuts through the mix with precision.
Perfect for both stage and studio, the Pinnacle offers the reliability and durability Wampler is renowned for. Its compact design means it fits seamlessly into any pedalboard setup without compromising on performance. Elevate your playing and join the ranks of guitarists who trust the Pinnacle to deliver that iconic, unmistakable tone.
Key Features:
- Dual gain stage for versatile distortion options
- Volume, tone, contour, and gain controls for precise sound shaping
- Boost switch for added power and impact
- Carefully tuned EQ section for clarity and definition
- Compact, pedalboard-friendly design
Product specs
| Brand | Wampler |
| Model | Pinnacle Distortion |
| Finish | Red |
| Year | 2010s |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Distortion Pedals |
FAQs
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What type of sound can I expect from the Wampler Pinnacle Distortion Pedal?
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The Wampler Pinnacle is designed to emulate the iconic EVH "brown sound," offering rich, harmonically complex distortion tones that are ideal for rock and hard rock genres.
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Does the Wampler Pinnacle have a boost function?
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Yes, the Wampler Pinnacle includes a boost switch that alters the gain structure, allowing you to switch between overdrive and distortion settings for added versatility.
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Is the Wampler Pinnacle suitable for live performances?
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With its robust construction and dynamic sound range, the Wampler Pinnacle is well-suited for live performances, providing the tonal flexibility needed for various rock styles.
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What kind of power supply does the Wampler Pinnacle require?
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The Wampler Pinnacle requires a 9V DC power supply and does not support battery operation, ensuring consistent performance during use.
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Can the Wampler Pinnacle Distortion Pedal be used with a clean amp?
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Yes, the Wampler Pinnacle is designed to work effectively with clean amps, delivering a powerful distortion that enhances your guitar's natural tone without needing an already overdriven amp.
Videos
Wampler Pedals
Wampler Pedals - Pinnacle (Steve Townsend)
Reviews
PROS
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Captures classic Van Halen sounds effectively
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Authentic sound, more so than MXR 5150 OD pedal
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Great harmonics, makes strings feel "lit"
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Dial-friendly, with tone and db toggle switches
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Versatile for various tones, especially for leads
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Clear tone when rolling off guitar volume
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Absolutely silent even at high gain settings
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Works exceptionally well with Fender type amps
CONS
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Does not pair well with non-Fender type amps
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Limited versatility beyond core EVH sound
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Too high gain for those seeking lower/mid gain settings
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Wampler Pinnacle.
Features and functionality
Comparisons
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In Modern mode, the sound can be too buzzy and shrill, especially with American Pro Strat and PRS McCarty guitars.
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The Suhr Riot was tested as an alternative but was not well-received compared to the Pinnacle.
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The Wampler Gearbox, which includes a Pinnacle side, is preferred over the Pinnacle Deluxe due to its built-in noise gate, reducing noise floor issues.
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The Pinnacle Deluxe was noted as having a higher noise floor compared to other pedals like the Wampler Gearbox, affecting user preference.
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Mods and upgrades
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Running the pedal at 18v can help reduce fizz, offering a smoother tone.
Source
Use cases and applications
Value and pricing
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The large footprint of the pedal might be a drawback for those with limited pedalboard space.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 11 Ratings
Top Van Halen Brown Sound
Zeke Clark, Edward Van Halen's longtime renowned guitar tech played through a pinnacle and this is what he had to say:
"I've played tons of pedals that promised that "Brown Sound"... this pedal NAILS it better than anything I've ever heard or played." - Zeke Clark, former tech for Eddie Van Halen
133
Brown sound deluxe
It is indeed right: The pedal is - especially in front of Fenderish Tube Amps - giving you the cracking voice of a hot rodded amp, as made famous by Eddie van Halen. Two things are really impressive: The tone is clearing up nicely when rolling off the volume of the guitar, and the pedal is absolutely silent, even if higher gain settings are dialed in. If you find a store having them, give it a try and test them!
41010
great review
Artist usage
Add artist
Straight forward: Rob tested Wampler pedals and you will find him stating in later videos that he (as guitarist of Dorje) is now a proud endorser of Wampler pedals. The Pinnacle is one of the std pedals on his pedal board.
Used this distortion pedal around the time post- came out. Volume and gain are cranked all the way. Tone is set to about 1 or 2 o'clock. Contour set to around 11 o'clock.
According to the gear list found along with Premier Guitar's interview with Wayne Krantz, he uses the Wampler Pinnacle.
According to Guitar Geek's rig diagram, Yatovitz uses the Wampler Pinnacle pedal.
In a picture of her pedalboard available on Imgur, we can see that Hannah Findlay uses a Wampler Pinnacle distortion pedal.
Album Usage
The Wampler Pinnacle has been featured on the following albums:
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 Wampler Pinnacle, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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