Electro-Harmonix Holy Stain – The Champion of The People

Controls:
Features:
Performance:
Value:

• Check Price on Amazon
• Check Price on Guitar Center
• Check Price on Musician's Friend

Most of the multi-effects pedals from Electro-Harmonix’s offer are anything but affordable. However, the key word here is ’most’. Before all of the outrageous pedals filled their lineup, there was one multi-effect beast that spearheaded this category on the market. We are talking about the Electro-Harmonix Holy Stain – easily one of the best multi effect pedals for the budget crowd. This thing may not be as refined as some other models out there, but boy does it bring on some serious thunder. Its price, tone and overall aesthetic make it a very attractive choice for many fans of Electro-Harmonix

Features

Just as one would expect, Holy Stain features everything that defines Electro-Harmonix pedals in general. We have their indestructible enclosure, an awesome sounding fuzz and distortion effect, and a pretty authentic reverb section. That is all this pedal is about. These two effects represent the most used combination even at this point in time. With that said, it is no wonder that Holy Stain became so popular almost overnight. With its clean layout and very generously spaced out foot switches, you can rest assured that using the Holy Stain won’t take any special getting used to period.

Control

In their usual fashion, Holy Stain’s controls are divided between its two effects. On the left side we have a rather elaborate reverb cluster which allows you to select between two of the most popular reverb types. However, there’s a small surprise on that part of the pedal. Aside from the two reverbs, you can also select a pitch shifter and tremolo as a mode. While the accent is heavily on the reverb and distortion part of the pedal, these two additional effects are authentic enough to be noticed quite quickly. In general, the controls are very intuitive and easy to get used to.

Performance

The tone you get from the Holy Stain can be described as both semi vintage and semi modern. When you put on the fuzz, you will feel that old school flavor that once defined rock and roll. As you start increasing the drive levels, fuzz fades away and pretty convincing distortion kicks in. While not overly aggressive, it does appear to be a bit too chaotic for an overdrive. Modulation and reverb effects are on point, though. With enough modes to choose from, the pedal won’t run out of its stockpiles of versatility any time soon.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, Electro-Harmonix Holy Stain defines the bang for the buck segment of the multi-effects pedal market. It is not that expensive, but it isn’t dirt cheap either. They’ve managed
to place it right on that sweet spot where everyone can get it without shattering their finances. Whether you are a professional looking to spice up your gig setup or just an enthusiast in search of a great all-in-one solution, Holy Stain is one of the rare multi-effects pedals that can conform to just about anything.

For more info about the Electro-Harmonix Holy Stain, click here.
For more Multi Effects Pedals Currently On The Market, click here.