Dimebag Darrell’s favourite rack unit is reborn as a compact pedal: MXR unveils the Flanger/Doubler pedal – BBD-driven analogue mojo for ‘70s and ‘80s flavours or fatter metal tones

MXR has introduced a new Flanger/Doubler pedal that faithfully recreates the sound and features of its vintage M-126 rack unit, bringing a beloved effect from the 1970s and 1980s into a more compact and accessible format. This pedal aims to deliver the distinctive analogue tonal characteristics that made the original a staple for players seeking both flanger and doubling effects.

The Flanger/Doubler unit is designed to provide the thickening effect of a doubled guitar track by layering a slightly delayed version of the signal alongside the original, enhancing the overall sound with a sense of depth and richness. Additionally, the pedal offers classic flanger modulation that creates sweeping, whooshing textures. Depending on settings, the doubler effect can resemble a slapback delay tone.

A key historical figure associated with this effect is the late Dimebag Darrell, the renowned guitarist of Pantera, who consistently incorporated the M-126 Flanger/Doubler into his rig as a core part of his sound. By using the unit in the main wet effects loop, he was able to make his guitar occupy more sonic space, compensating for being the sole guitarist in the band. His guitar technician confirmed the pedal was an indispensable tone enhancer throughout Darrell’s career.

While its connection to Darrell’s signature sound is well documented, the Flanger/Doubler’s versatility extends beyond that, appealing to a broad range of players interested in vintage analogue modulation effects. The pedal captures the wide tonal palette of the original through its analogue Bucket Brigade Device (BBD) circuitry, which is prized for its warm and organic character.

The new MXR pedal faithfully retains the same control layout as the M-126 rack unit, including dials for Manual, Width, Speed, and Regen. The Regen knob functions similarly to a feedback control on flangers, intensifying the effect with metallic resonance. Additional features include a Mix control to balance the wet and dry signals, a toggle button to switch between flanger and doubler modes, and an Invert button that flips the polarity of the wet signal to expand the tonal possibilities.

Connectivity options offer modern flexibility, featuring a CV output compatible with synthesizers and sequencers, as well as an expression pedal input for real-time control. There is also a Line Level switch to accommodate different signal strengths, ensuring the pedal integrates seamlessly into various rig setups. Visual feedback is provided via LEDs on the pedal’s front panel, aiding in precise adjustments.

Priced at £339/$339, the MXR Flanger/Doubler is currently available through authorized dealers such as Jim Dunlop. This reissue allows both longtime fans and new players to access a historically significant effect in a convenient stompbox form.

The launch of this pedal underscores a growing interest in reviving classic analogue gear with faithful reproductions that preserve the original sound and character while accommodating modern performance needs. By choosing not to overhaul the original design, MXR honors the legacy of the M-126 and its place in guitar history.

From an industry perspective, this release taps into the enduring appeal of vintage metal tones and effects associated with iconic guitarists, potentially stimulating renewed interest in Pantera’s recorded work and live performance emulations. Pedal reissues like this can also contribute to sustained revenue from legacy artist branding and encourage gear manufacturers to explore similar archival projects.

Unconfirmed details remain concerning any additional tonal enhancements or updates beyond the faithful replication of the original circuitry and controls. It is also yet to be seen how widely the pedal will be adopted outside the niche of players specifically seeking Dimebag Darrell’s historic sound.

Overall, the MXR Flanger/Doubler pedal offers a carefully crafted bridge between past and present, providing musicians access to a signature effect that played a key role in shaping the sonic identity of one of heavy metal’s most influential figures.