The MXR M108S is a graphic equaliser designed as an effect pedal that encompasses 10 frequency bands ranging from 31Hz to 16kHz and caters to all instruments. For optimum adjustment, input and output volume are independently adjustable within a signal chain, while the included power supply provides the pedal with 18V. Compared to its predecessor, the MXR M108, the new MXR M108S has been expanded to include true bypass switching, efficient noise reduction, two parallel outputs for signal splitting, and brighter LEDs for the faders. Each fader allows the respective frequency to be adjusted by ±12dB, making the MXR M108S a powerful sound-shaping hub and one of the most flexible EQs in a space-saving pedal format.
As is common among graphic equalisers, the individual frequency bands on the MXR M108S are adjusted using sliders, the advantage of which is that the position of each fader is easily readable. In contrast to the EQ controls on the majority of instrument amplifiers, which are hard to read on dark stages, these illuminated faders will prove very helpful for making quick tonal adjustments. As mentioned above, each frequency band can be adjusted by up to ±12dB, while the MXR M108S’s true bypass switching allows the signal to flow without interference when the pedal is turned off, allowing the player to make optimum A/B comparisons between the “on” and “off” states of the signal and ensuring lossless transmission within the signal chain. And as one would expect from a pedal, the equaliser is turned on and off using the inbuilt footswitch.
Since the MXR M108S covers most of the normal range of human hearing, it is suitable for almost any electrically amplified instrument, and its compact dimensions and lightweight design make it ideal for use in a live performance environment, where guitarists and bassists in particular will appreciate its versatility. The MXR M108S can also double as a signal splitter thanks to its two parallel outputs, making it a convenient solution for feeding two separate amps or preamps.
American effect pedal specialist MXR was established in Rochester, New York in 1972 and was acquired by Dunlop Manufacturing in 1987, since when it has been headquartered in Benicia, California. Classic effects from MXR include the Phase 90 and the Dyna Comp, and the company also offers reissues of legendary pedals from its past under the MXR Custom Shop label as well as offering bassists their own dedicated line of effects with the MXR Bass Innovations series. MXR endorsers down the years have included legends like Eddie Van Halen, David Gilmour, and Mike Rutherford.
The MXR M108S serves as a precision tool for players to modify their sound at the touch of a button. For the guitar, this could be handy when switching from rhythm to solo sound – and for bass, it might be perfect for shifting between fingerstyle and slap sounds. The equaliser is also practical for switching between two distinctly different instruments and attuning their respective sound to suit the player’s needs. Furthermore, the MXR M108S can be employed as a permanent sound correction tool in the signal chain, whether for eliminating boomy frequencies on stage or when the internal EQ on the amp is not quite accurate enough, and its effective noise reduction also minimises any unwanted background noise.