Digitech Whammies

11 min readJun 18, 2024

Get ready to dive into the world of music technology as we explore some of the best picks in the Digitech Whammy product line! This roundup will showcase the latest innovations and top-of-the-line features offered by Digitech to create an unforgettable musical experience for you. Get informed, get inspired, and experience the magic of the Whammy!

The Top 7 Best Digitech Whammies

DigiTech Whammy Pedal for Unique Guitar Effects — Unleash infinite pitch-shifting possibilities and capture the hearts of countless rock enthusiasts with the legendary DigiTech Whammy Pedal.
DigiTech Whammy Ricochet Pedal — Enhance Your Sound — Revolutionize your pitch-shifting experience with the DigiTech Whammy Ricochet Pedal — compact, easy to use, and delivering exceptional sound quality!
DigiTech Whammy Pitch-Shifting Guitar Effects Pedal — Legendary Red Pedal for Enhanced Sound and Performance — The DigiTech Whammy Pitch-Shifting Guitar Effects Pedal, a must-have for any guitarist’s board, adds legendary pitch shifting effects to your jams and boasts impressive build quality.
DigiTech Whammy DT Pedal: Enhanced Pitch Shifting Effects and Drop Tuning — The DigiTech Whammy DT Pedal offers seamless pitch shifting, drop tuning, and true bypass for an unbeatable guitar performance, impressing even the most discerning musicians with its classic sound and durability.
DigiTech Bass Whammy Effect Pedal for Precise Pitch Shifting — Unleash unmatched pitch shifting with the DigiTech Bass Whammy, a game-changing effect pedal for bass enthusiasts, delivering precision, flexibility, and seamless integration into your pedalboard.
DigiTech Whammy Ricochet Guitar Pitch Effect Pedal with Accessories — Experience the iconic Whammy sound and ultimate pitch control with DigiTech’s compact, versatile guitar effect pedal bundle.
DigiTech Whammy 5 Expressive Pitch Shifting Pedal — The DigiTech Whammy 5 is a powerful, versatile pitch-shifting pedal with a metal chassis and MIDI input, offering 10 Whammy settings, 9 harmony settings, and 2 detune settings for expressive and iconic guitar effects.

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Reviews

DigiTech Whammy Pedal for Unique Guitar Effects

The legendary DigiTech Whammy Pedal has been a staple for guitarists for decades, providing a wide range of pitch-shifting effects. Recently, the pedal underwent several upgrades, including true bypass switching and polyphonic tracking while shifting pitch, which make it an even better choice for any guitarist’s board.

The Whammy Pedal provides rock solid pitch shifting effects, bringing depth to your artistry and expression. The pedal’s full MIDI connectivity is a game-changer, allowing for seamless integration with other gear. While there are a few drawbacks, such as the lack of an intelligent harmonizer setting and the loss of the dry output, the Whammy Pedal is still a fantastic investment for any guitarist looking to add some truly unique and powerful effects to their rig.

DigiTech Whammy Ricochet Pedal — Enhance Your Sound

The DigiTech Whammy Ricochet pedal is a versatile and compact solution for those seeking the famous Whammy sound, but without the bulkier treadle. I’ve had the pleasure of using it in my daily life, and it’s truly an impressive piece of equipment.

What stood out to me the most was the ultimate control it provides over shift and return time, giving you the ability to create controlled or wild pitch shifts with ease. The selection of 7 pitch intervals, including 2nd, 4th, 5th, 7th, Octave, Double Octave, and Octave+Dry, adds to its versatility and allows for a wide range of unique sounds. And the latching footswitch mode ensures that you can hold a pitch and stay there without lifting your foot.

One drawback I noticed during my experience was the absence of an expression pedal, but overall, the DigiTech Whammy Ricochet pedal proved to be easy to use and a great addition to my pedalboard. Its compact size, smooth control, and high-quality sounds make it a fantastic choice for guitarists looking to add some variety to their tone.

DigiTech Whammy Pitch-Shifting Guitar Effects Pedal — Legendary Red Pedal for Enhanced Sound and Performance

I recently got the chance to try out the DigiTech Whammy Pitch-Shifting guitar effects pedal and let me tell you, it’s a game changer for guitarists! This pedal has been around for 23 years and graced over 700 million albums, making it a must-have for any guitarist’s board.

What stood out to me the most was the sound quality of this pedal. It’s easy to use and provides a wide range of effects, including pitch shifting, harmonizer, and octave. The multiple tabs on the pedal allow you to adjust the playback volume, depth, and speed of the recordings conveniently, giving you more control over your sound.

The die-cast material used in this pedal adds to its durability, making it perfect for prolonged usage. I also appreciated the compact size, which is perfect for pedalboards as it doesn’t take up much space. Plus, the responsiveness of the pedal helped me quickly transition between effects during jamming sessions.

While this pedal is an excellent addition to any guitarist’s setup, it does come with a couple of drawbacks. One drawback is that it doesn’t have an “intelligent” harmonizer setting, meaning you are only limited to pre-set intervals. Another downside is that it doesn’t come with a power supply, so you’ll need to purchase one separately.

Overall, the DigiTech Whammy Pitch-Shifting guitar effects pedal is a fantastic tool that every guitarist should have in their arsenal. Its sound quality, range of effects, and durability make it well worth the investment.

DigiTech Whammy DT Pedal: Enhanced Pitch Shifting Effects and Drop Tuning

DigiTech has done it again with their innovative Whammy DT pedal, a must-have for any musician. This pitch shifter offers an array of sounds and features that can significantly enhance your guitar performance. The pedal’s sturdy steel build ensures durability, while the compact design makes it perfect for even the most space-conscious musicians.

The Whammy DT’s pitch shifter control knob allows you to easily adjust the sound and rhythm without hassle, making it a practical and high-quality addition to your gear. Its versatility in handling a range of tuning options and true bypass feature ensures that your guitar performance stays in top shape, whether on stage or in the studio.

With its unique blend of drop tuning and classic Whammy shifting, the Whammy DT offers a world of possibilities for creative musicians. Its ease of use, combined with its excellent sound quality, makes it a standout product in the world of guitar effects. If you’re looking to upgrade your tone and take your guitar playing to the next level, the Whammy DT is definitely worth considering.

DigiTech Bass Whammy Effect Pedal for Precise Pitch Shifting

Experience the latest advancements in bass pedals with the Digitech Bass Whammy. Perfect for those who crave unique pitch-shifting effects, this pedal boasts innovative polyphonic note tracking technology, two tracking modes, and plenty of modern upgrades.

Retaining the classic settings while adding more, this true bypass MIDI-controllable pedal will impress even the most skilled bassists out there. With a smooth action and no latency issues, the Digitech Bass Whammy is definitely worth the investment.

DigiTech Whammy Ricochet Guitar Pitch Effect Pedal with Accessories

The DigiTech Whammy Ricochet is a compact pitch effect pedal for guitarists who seek the iconic Whammy sound without the bulkiness of a traditional pedalboard. Its ease of use and intuitive controls cater to both beginners and seasoned players looking to add some creativity to their sound.

Boasting 7 selectable pitch intervals, the Ricochet offers ultimate control over the shift and return time. The LED Trajectory Ladder provides instant visual feedback, enabling users to fine-tune their effects easily. With this pedal, you can achieve various pitches spanning up to two octaves effortlessly. For those who prefer the classics, the toggle allows users to select up or down for the chosen pitch.

While the Whammy Ricochet doesn’t come with an expression pedal, its compatibility with various control functions might compensate for that. It also operates on a 9V power source, making it energy-efficient and suitable for smaller pedalboards.

The DigiTech Whammy Ricochet is a perfect choice for guitarists who desire a pitch shifter with the famous Whammy sound without sacrificing board space. With excellent sound quality, user-friendly controls, and a compact design, this pedal is a must-have for any gearhead who wants to experiment with their sound.

DigiTech Whammy 5 Expressive Pitch Shifting Pedal

As a guitar enthusiast, I’ve always been drawn to unique effects that can add that extra layer of depth to my playing. The DigiTech Whammy Expressive Pitch Shifting Pedal has been a staple in the world of guitar effects for quite some time now, and after trying it out myself, I can definitely understand why.

The first thing that struck me about this pedal was its sleek, red metal chassis. It definitely feels like a high-quality piece of gear, and the MIDI input is a great feature for those looking to integrate it into a more complex setup.

One of the most impressive aspects of the Whammy is its pitch shifting algorithms, which offer both classic and chords shifting modes. This makes it incredibly versatile and allows for a wide range of creative possibilities. The pedal’s true bypass function also ensures that the signal remains pure when it’s not in use, which is a definite plus.

However, no product is without its drawbacks. The Whammy can be quite bulky, which might be a concern for those with limited space on their pedalboard. Additionally, while the harmonizer mode can produce some truly remarkable sounds, it can be a bit tricky to master at first.

Overall, the DigiTech Whammy Expressive Pitch Shifting Pedal is a powerful and innovative tool for any guitarist looking to add some seriously unique effects to their arsenal. While it may not be perfect for everyone, its unique capabilities and robust build make it a worthwhile addition to any pedalboard.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our guide on Digitech Whammy products! This comprehensive section will provide you with essential information about the Digitech Whammy, its features, and how to make an informed purchase. We have organized our guide into four key sections for your convenience.

Overview of Digitech Whammy

The Digitech Whammy is a line of innovative digital pitch shifters and expression pedals designed to transform various sounds in a musical performance. This unique device allows you to sweep down or up the octaves with ease, creating mesmerizing vocal or guitar effects that can capture the attention of any audience. The Whammy is popular among guitarists and singers, making it an excellent addition to both live performances and recording sessions.

Features to Consider

When considering a Digitech Whammy, you will want to think about the following features:

Compatibility: Check if the pedal you are interested in is compatible with your instrument and your desired effects pedal setup. 2. Durability: A durable build will ensure your Whammy can withstand frequent use or rough handling during transport. 3. Controls: Understand the controls and consider the design of the pedal, as this can impact how well it integrates with your other equipment. 4. Quality: Look for a device that offers high-quality sound and robust connectivity to deliver optimal performance when in use.

Tips for Using Digitech Whammy

Practice with headphones on before performing: To avoid any potential feedback or issues during live performances, it’s best to practice with your earbuds or headphones. 2. Experiment with different settings: Try various combinations of settings to create new, unique sounds and achieve the desired effect. 3. Be mindful of timing: Since the pitch shifts based on your movement of foot, ensure you’re practicing accurate timing to maintain an even and impressive performance.

General Advice for Buying a Digitech Whammy

Consider your budget: Before purchasing, assess your budget and decide on the minimum amount you’re willing to spend on a Whammy that best suits your needs. 2. Research online: Read reviews and compare different Whammy options from various retailers to make an informed purchase. 3. Ask for recommendations: Talk to fellow musicians or audio experts to get their suggestions on the best Digitech Whammy for your needs.

FAQ

What is the Digitech Whammy and how does it work?

The Digitech Whammy is a guitar pedal that enables players to create a wide range of sound effects. It works by using a pitch-shifting algorithm that alters the pitch of the guitar notes, resulting in bended, dive bombed, or double-tracked sounds. The pedal has an adjustable knob allowing users to set the desired pitch shift.

The Whammy pedal can be used in a variety of musical styles, including rock, metal, pop, and more. By combining different settings and techniques, players can create unique, expressive, and innovative soundscapes with minimal effort. This makes it a versatile and valuable addition to any guitarist’s pedalboard.

Are there different versions of the Digitech Whammy available?

Yes, there are several versions of the Digitech Whammy available, each with its own unique features and capabilities. Some popular versions include the Whammy 5, which features a five-band EQ for more precise control over the tone, and the Whammy DL, which introduces a digital delay effect for more complex and dynamic sounds. The company also offers a Hose Harmonist version for bass guitarists and a whammy-wah pedal for vocalists.

These different versions cater to various preferences and requirements of musicians, making it easier for them to find a Whammy that matches their playing style and artistic vision. To determine which version is best suited for a particular musician, it’s essential to consider their genres, tone preferences, and live vs. studio use.

How does the Whammy pedal affect guitar tuning?

The Digitech Whammy pedal does not affect the overall tuning of your guitar. It operates based on an algorithm that interprets the input signals and generates altered versions of them. When you use the pedal, the pitch of your guitar is shifted, allowing you to create unique sounds and effects without compromising the tuning accuracy of your instrument.

However, it’s essential to ensure your guitar is in tune before using the Whammy, as any tuning issues will persist throughout the playing of the effect. Additionally, some severe bends or pitch shifts might cause slight intonation issues, making it crucial to adjust your guitar’s strings as needed to maintain accurate pitch.

Is the Digitech Whammy easy to use?

Yes, the Digitech Whammy is generally easy to use, even for beginners. The pedal features simple, intuitive controls, making it straightforward to navigate the various sound effects and create different tones. It also comes with a set of pre-programmed settings that can be quickly accessed, which can be handy for both live performances and studio sessions.

The pedal also has a “glide” mode, which allows seamless transitions between pitches by holding down the Whammy pedal, ideal for slow, melodic bends. For users who prefer more precise control, the Whammy can also be manual-driven by simply plucking the strings while holding the pedal. This makes it a versatile tool that can accommodate various playing styles and preferences.

How durable is the Digitech Whammy pedal?

The Digitech Whammy pedal is known for its durability, thanks to its rugged construction and high-quality materials. It is designed to withstand the rigors of road life, perfect for musicians who perform frequently or travel extensively. The pedal’s compact size also makes it easier to transport and store, without sacrificing its robustness.

However, it’s essential to maintain proper care and handling of the Whammy pedal, considering the various electronic components involved. Regular cleaning, avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures, and keeping the pedal away from moisture can help prolong its lifespan and ensure optimal performance.

Can the Digitech Whammy be used with other devices?

Yes, the Digitech Whammy can be used in conjunction with other devices such as MIDI controllers, synthesizers, or other effects processors. By connecting the Whammy to a MIDI controller, users can access the pedals’ different settings, effects, and parameters remotely. This can be particularly useful during live performances or when seeking a particular tone while switching between songs or instrumental sections.

Additionally, the Whammy can be used in conjunction with other digital effects processors, creating an array of unique and complex soundscapes. Careful and precise setup is required to achieve the desired results, making it essential to consult the user manual or consult online resources for proper integration.