DigiTech is back with another innovative pitch-shifting pedal, the HammerOn, bringing foot-controlled instantaneous pitch jumps to your pedalboard. Expanding on their legacy of redefining pitch effects with the Whammy pedal, the HammerOn introduces a new approach to momentary pitch shifts, trills, and sequenced transpositions.
Key Features:
- Dual Footswitch Pitch Jumps – Instantaneous hammer-on effects with foot-controlled shifts.
- Chromatic Pitch Selection – Shift notes across a four-octave range.
- Trill Mode – Tap tempo for automated rapid pitch cycling.
- Impossible Mode – Alternating pitch jumps for unique phrasing.
- Sequence Mode – Create 2-note, 3-note, and 5-note sequences.
HammerOn: More Than Just a Whammy Alternative
DigiTech has long been known for pushing the boundaries of pitch effects, and the HammerOn is no exception. Rather than relying on a rocker pedal like the classic Whammy, the HammerOn gives players access to instantaneous pitch jumps via footswitches—offering a new level of performance flexibility. With a fully chromatic range, users can create anything from subtle harmonies to extreme octave shifts at the stomp of a button.
Exploring the Modes
One of the most exciting aspects of the HammerOn is its multiple pitch-shifting modes. Trill Mode automates rapid pitch shifts at a selectable rate, creating a fast hammer-on effect that can be synced to a groove. Impossible Mode takes things further by alternating between two pitch jumps every time the footswitch is pressed, making impossible-sounding riffs playable. For those who want a programmable pitch sequencer, Sequence Mode allows users to step through custom pitch shifts in 2-note, 3-note, or 5-note cycles, opening up creative possibilities for layered harmonies and experimental textures.
Designed for Expressive Guitarists
Guitarists looking for an effect that is more than just a momentary gimmick will appreciate how the HammerOn integrates with their playing. The true bypass design ensures clean tone when disengaged, and the dry signal blend allows players to create harmonized effects rather than just pitch shifts. Whether used as a subtle lead tool or as a wild performance effect, the HammerOn feels like an instrument in itself rather than just another pedal.
Availability
The DigiTech HammerOn pedal is set to hit stores soon, offering guitarists a fresh take on foot-controlled pitch shifting. For those who love pushing sonic boundaries—or just want a fun new way to spice up their playing—this might be one to watch.
Stay tuned for more updates, and let us know in the comments—how would you use the HammerOn in your setup?
