Wampler Ratsbane Mini Distortion Pedal

£139.99

Wampler's Ratsbane is based on the iconic "rodent" distortion pedal — a hard rock and metal staple since the early '80s. Paying tribute to this legendary circuit, the Wampler Ratsbane promises more versatility than the original unit with its expanded control-set — while modern, mini-sized proportions make it much easier to fit to your pedalboard! Much More Than A Mouse! The "rodent" distortion sound is a sonic benchmark for many guitarists. […]


Description

Wampler's Ratsbane is based on the iconic "rodent" distortion pedal — a hard rock and metal staple since the early '80s. Paying tribute to this legendary circuit, the Wampler Ratsbane promises more versatility than the original unit with its expanded control-set — while modern, mini-sized proportions make it much easier to fit to your pedalboard!

Much More Than A Mouse!

The "rodent" distortion sound is a sonic benchmark for many guitarists. The wide dynamic range and sheer force of this circuit is what makes it a true king among distortion pedals; versatile qualities that the Ratsbane can accurately recreate thanks to its high-grade components picked for their superior sound and response.

Gain To Cover All Of The Bases

If you're looking for a flexible distortion pedal that can cover lots of musical territory — Ratsbane is the answer. A powerful boost tone can be attained by turning the dedicated 'Distortion' control all the way down, while a throaty, fuzz-like high-gain sound with rich harmonic overtones is achievable by turning the knob up to max. Set it to 12 o'clock for a gutsy overdrive with plenty of mid-range punch.

Fan-Favourite 'Filter' Control

The 'Filter' dial was always regarded as the "secret sauce" for original '80s "rodent" units — a useful feature that Wampler has carried over for its Ratsbane. Turn it counter-clockwise to cut straight through the mix with precision and high-frequency attack, or roll it up to tame the top-end for a warm and buttery tone that remains clear.

2 Tone-Tailoring Switches

In typical Wampler fashion, the American brand has improved the usability of this classic circuit by fitting two additional tone-shaping switches. 'Gain' offers three distinct voices, affecting the amount of distortion on tap. Keep it centered for the "stock" setting, or flick it left for a firm yet smooth boost in gain. The right position provides a turbocharged, creamy distortion bordering on insane!

The 'Voice' switch subtly alters the compression and clipping of the Ratsbane. Tightening the distortion in order to be more manageable with greater levels of gain, this setting also rolls back some of the fuzziness to deliver a modern, saturated sound.

Controls

  • Distortion: Affects the total amount of distortion. 
  • Volume: Controls the total output volume of the pedal. 
  • Filter: Influences the high-end roll off. Counter-clockwise is maximum treble, clockwise is minimum.
  • Gain: 3-stage gain control. Middle is stock, left and right turbocharge the gain stages.
  • Voice: Two voicing options that subtly alter the compression and clipping of the signal.

Key Features

  • Built in the U.S.A.
  • High grade components picked for their superior sound and response
  • True bypass
  • 9v – 18v power jack (no battery connector inside)
  • Power draw: between 2.5mA (9v) and 3.2mA (18v)
  • Five controls – Volume, Distortion, Filter rotary, plus 3 way Gain switch and 2 way Voice switch
  • Includes Wampler’s limited 5-year warranty
  • 1.5″ x 3.5″ x 1.5″ (38.1mm x 88.9mm x 38.1mm) – height excludes knobs and switches

Brand

Wampler

Wampler are renowned for crafting boutique-grade guitar pedals that blend studio precision with road-ready reliability. Designed by tone visionary Brian Wampler, every circuit reflects years of obsessive tweaking to capture the feel and dynamics of real amplifiers. Whether it’s the Tumnus for that mythical Klon-style transparent drive, the Euphoria for rich Dumble-inspired overdrive, or the Terraform bringing studio-quality modulation to your board, Wampler pedals consistently deliver clarity, musicality, and depth. Each model is built in the USA using premium components and true-bypass switching for pristine signal integrity. If you’re after pro-level tone shaping — from subtle boost to soaring gain — Wampler are one of the brands to watch, trusted by players who demand boutique sound without compromise.

Category

Wampler

Tags

Distortion

Distortion pedals take your clean guitar signal and transform it into something bigger, bolder, and full of attitude. By clipping the waveform, they add sustain, bite, and aggression, creating that thick, compressed tone that’s powered rock music for decades. From the growling crunch of classic hard rock to the tight, saturated roar of modern metal, distortion is all about energy and presence. It gives every note weight and authority, pushing your amp to its limits and beyond.

There are countless flavours of distortion, each with its own texture and edge. Some sound smooth and creamy, others raw and gnarly like tearing fabric. It’s the sonic equivalent of turning up the heat until the sound cooks — rich, sizzling, and perfectly seasoned to taste. Whether used for rhythm muscle or soaring leads, a good distortion pedal doesn’t just add volume; it adds personality, grit, and that unmistakable sense of power under your fingers.

Distortion Pedals