Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $379

High-end/Boutique

$50

$176+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* 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

Dive into a sea of distortion like no other with the ZVex Machine. Unlike your typical overdrive, this pedal crafts its unique sound by manipulating the slopes of your audio waves, creating a distinct, rich harmonic texture that stands out in any mix. Perfect for guitarists looking to push the boundaries of their sound, the ZVex Machine offers an unparalleled sonic experience that's as versatile as it is intense. Whether you’re layering subtle textures or aiming for an all-out sonic assault, this pedal has the power to transform your music into something truly extraordinary.

Key Features:

  • Unique distortion effect manipulating the wave's slope for distinct harmonics
  • Ideal for creating rich, textured sounds ranging from subtle to aggressive
  • Versatile functionality suits a wide range of musical styles and applications

Product specs

Brand Zvex
Model Machine
Finish Hand Painted
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Distortion Pedals, Fuzz Pedals and Effects
Pedal Format Standard

FAQs

What type of effect does the ZVEX Machine pedal produce?

The ZVEX Machine pedal is known for its unique distortion and fuzz effects, providing a highly aggressive and cutting tone that is ideal for experimental and noise music genres.

How does the ZVEX Machine differ from typical overdrive pedals?

Unlike typical overdrive pedals that enhance existing tones, the ZVEX Machine creates a distinct and raw sound by manipulating the guitar signal in a unique way, resulting in a more abrasive and unconventional distortion.

Is the ZVEX Machine pedal suitable for use with bass guitars?

Yes, the ZVEX Machine can be used with bass guitars, offering a similar aggressive and distinctive distortion effect that can add character to bass lines.

Does the ZVEX Machine require a specific type of power supply?

The ZVEX Machine typically requires a standard 9V DC power supply, which is common for most guitar pedals.

What is the build quality of the ZVEX Machine pedal?

The ZVEX Machine is hand-painted and made in the United States, reflecting high craftsmanship and durability, making it a reliable choice for both studio and live performance settings.

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

ZVex Machine

Video thumbnail for ZVex Machine by ProGuitarShopDemos

ZVex Machine

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for Zvex Machine Guitar Pedal by FlyingTex

Zvex Machine Guitar Pedal

FlyingTex

FlyingTex

Video thumbnail for Z.Vex Effects MACHINE industrial guitar effects pedal demo with SG Les Paul & Jaguar Jr Amp by gearmanndude

Z.Vex Effects MACHINE industrial guitar effects pedal demo with SG Les Paul & Jaguar Jr Amp

gearmanndude

gearmanndude

Video thumbnail for zvex machine by don felipe

zvex machine

don felipe

don felipe

Video thumbnail for Twin Town Guitars "Pick Of The Day" ZVEX MACHINE by Twin Town Guitars

Twin Town Guitars "Pick Of The Day" ZVEX MACHINE

Twin Town Guitars

Twin Town Guitars

Video thumbnail for Z Vex Machine Distortion Pedal Video Demo by tunnelvisionmusic

Z Vex Machine Distortion Pedal Video Demo

tunnelvisionmusic

tunnelvisionmusic

Reviews

PROS

  • Cuts through heavy distortion without causing feedback

  • Adds a unique "broken glass" texture to distorted signals

  • Respects original tone while adding distinct character

  • Maintains the personality of other effects used alongside it

  • Enhances signal without significant compression or tone loss

  • Compatible with various distortion, overdrive, and fuzz effects

  • Quality build with true bypass and hand-painted enclosure

CONS

  • Unpleasant distortion when used with a clean signal

  • Not as musically beautiful by itself compared to some competitors

  • May be too intense for some, potentially alienating bandmates

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ZVEX Machine.

Features and functionality

  • The ZVEX Machine is noted for producing harsh, non-subtle tones, particularly effective when used at high volumes.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's designed to be used between other dirt pedals to create unique, glitchy oscillations and interactions.

    Source
  • It pairs intriguingly with a fuzz probe, suggesting potential for unique tonal combinations.

    Source

User experience

  • The pedal may not perform well at low volumes, often described as sounding unpleasant unless cranked.

    Source
  • Direct line usage enhances tone clarity over amp setups, possibly due to more defined signal shapes.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Clones of the Machine, especially those with 7-8 knobs, offer versatility and may provide a cost-effective alternative.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners recommend sending used units back to ZVEX for a check-up to ensure optimal performance.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Machine Review: If you're looking to wake up your rig with a different... | Zvex | Guitar Effects | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The ZVEX Machine is a polarizing beast of distortion, perfect for those chasing unique, industrial tones akin to Nine Inch Nails or Sonic Youth. While its harsh, ear-splitting distortion isn't for everyone and might sound like "utter shit" to some, it excels when paired with other pedals, creating a fierce, complex sound. Handbuilt with a lifetime warranty, the Machine is reliable and durable, but its niche appeal means it won't suit players seeking more traditional, polished tones. If you're after chaos in your guitar sound, this might just be your pedal.

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Trent Reznor uses ZVEX Machine

Trent Reznor

Singer, Guitarist

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via ZVEX Effects

Featured on the official ZVEX artist page.

Nine Inch Nails: Trent Reznor uses the Fuzz Factory, Machine, Woolly Mammoth and owns a Nano Head

See how Joe Satriani uses ZVEX Machine

Joe Satriani

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Reverb

A 2007 unit owned by Satriani was sold on Reverb.com via Bananas at Large.

See how Stephen Carpenter uses ZVEX Machine

Stephen Carpenter

Guitarist

Deftones

...
Verified via Photo

A detailed gear diagram for Stephen Carpenter of Deftones, traces the signal flow of the equipment, containing a ZVEX Machine, in his 2011 guitar rig.

See how Aaron North uses ZVEX Machine

Aaron North

Guitarist

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Photo

A source close to Aaron North has verified that he used the ZVEX Machine overdrive pedal in his live setup with Nine Inch Nails.

See how Erik Paulson uses ZVEX Machine

Erik Paulson

Singer, Guitarist

Remo Drive

...
Verified via Photo

On the Instagram post each band member's gear is specified including Erik's pedals.

See how Mete Kalyon uses ZVEX Machine

Mete Kalyon

Guitarist

Just Mustard

...
Verified via Photo

In the photo taken during Just Mustard's record shop show on October 28, 2025, the ZVEX Machine pedal is visible on Mete Kalyon's pedal board.

See how Vedran Mircetic uses ZVEX Machine

Vedran Mircetic

Guitarist

De Staat

...
Verified via Studio D: Artist Interviews, Gear Reviews, Product News | Dawsons Music

In a Q&A session with Dawsons Music, Vedran Mircetic mentions using the ZVEX Machine overdrive pedal as part of his gear setup.

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 ZVEX Machine, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

ZVEX Fuzz Factory
ZVEX Fuzz Factory Fuzz Effects Pedals
2
Apple MacBook Pro (General)
Apple MacBook Pro (General) Computers & Peripherals
1
ZVEX Woolly Mammoth Fuzz
ZVEX Woolly Mammoth Fuzz Bass Effects Pedals
1
Meris Ottobit Jr
Meris Ottobit Jr Guitar Synth Pedals
1
ZVEX Vexter Box of Rock
ZVEX Vexter Box of Rock Distortion Effects Pedals
1
ZVex Mastotron
ZVex Mastotron Fuzz Effects Pedals
1
Meris Enzo
Meris Enzo Guitar Synth Pedals
1
Marshall 1960B 4x12'' Cabinet
Marshall 1960B 4x12'' Cabinet Guitar Amplifier Cabinets
1

Community setups

Show yours
rothhandlestudios

rothhandlestudios

Gear IQ 1963

More ZVEX Overdrive Effects Pedals

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    luxiu
    luxiu

    Gear IQ 44626