The 1980 Electro-Harmonix Deluxe Electric Mistress is a quintessential analog flanger pedal that has carved its niche in the world of guitar effects. Renowned for its lush, sweeping modulation, this pedal offers guitarists a distinctive tonal palette, characterized by its ability to produce everything from subtle, chorus-like shimmer to intense, jet-engine whooshes.

This classic pedal features three simple yet highly effective controls: Rate, Range, and Color. The Rate knob adjusts the speed of the modulation, allowing for everything from slow, sweeping flanges to rapid, oscillating effects. The Range control sets the breadth of the effect, determining how pronounced the flange will be across the frequency spectrum. Finally, the Color knob fine-tunes the feedback, adding a resonance that can vary from a gentle swirl to a more pronounced, metallic edge.

A standout feature of the Deluxe Electric Mistress is its Filter Matrix mode, which freezes the modulation, enabling the creation of static, comb-filtered tones that add a unique texture to any sound. This function makes it a versatile tool for both traditional and experimental musicians.

The Electro-Harmonix Deluxe Electric Mistress also includes a noise filter to eliminate some of the unwanted noise found in the original Electric Mistress, ensuring a cleaner and more refined sound. Additionally, it offers separate Dry and Wet outputs, providing flexibility in signal routing and allowing players to blend their effects with greater precision.

At the heart of the Deluxe Electric Mistress is the Reticon SAD1024A chip, a key component that contributes to the pedal’s rich, analog flanging effect. This chip is known for its high-quality sound and is a significant factor in the pedal’s enduring popularity.

Constructed with a robust metal chassis, the pedal is designed to withstand the rigors of live performance. Its rich analog circuitry ensures a warm, organic sound that digital emulations often struggle to replicate. As a result, it remains a favorite among purists who seek the authentic flanging experience that defined many iconic tracks of the late '70s and early '80s.

Whether you’re aiming to capture the psychedelic swirls of Pink Floyd or the jet-plane swooshes of classic rock solos, the 1980 Electro-Harmonix Deluxe Electric Mistress delivers a timeless flanging effect that continues to inspire musicians to this day.