The Classic Distortion Replacements: ProCo Rat vs. Rat 2
ProCo Rat and ProCo Rat 2 are two of the most iconic distortion pedals in guitar history. While they share a name and a reputation for grit, their design philosophies, tonal options, and market positioning differ enough to make them distinct tools in a guitarist’s arsenal.
The ProCo Rat: Origins and Design
Introduced in 1982, the original ProCo Rat was built as a high‑gain, hard‑cut distortion that could push amps into the realm of metal or hardcore. It featured a simple three‑band circuit with a gain knob, a tone control, and an on/off switch. The audio path relied on a single op‑amp in a clipper configuration, giving the Rat its signature “bendy” distortion that can still deliver a clean punch when dialed down.
Its build quality was robust, with a metal chassis and a clear, thick plastic housing. The pedal’s weight and size made it a staple on rigs that required an extra layer of distortion.
The ProCo Rat 2: Evolution and New Features
Re‑released in 2013, the ProCo Rat 2 was a modern reinterpretation that addressed some of the original’s quirks while adding new versatility. The Rat
