Gear article
Eventide H90 Harmonizer Pedal
The Eventide H90 Harmonizer is a high-performance multi-effects pedal built on modern ARM-based architecture. It serves as a comprehensive processing station for guitarists and live performers, offering 62 distinct effect algorithms including low-latency polyphonic pitch shifting.
See live pricesOverview
The Eventide H90 Harmonizer is a flagship multi-effects pedal designed to provide studio-quality processing in a floorboard format. Utilizing advanced ARM-based architecture, it offers significantly greater processing power than standard digital pedals. The unit is designed to be an all-in-one solution for musicians, capable of handling everything from traditional spatial effects to complex, experimental signal chains.
History and Development
The H90 represents a significant evolution of the H9 Max Harmonizer platform. While the H9 was restricted to running a single algorithm at a time, the H90 was developed to overcome these limitations. It incorporates all 52 algorithms found in the H9 Max and adds 10 new algorithms, including three recreations of legendary Eventide rackmount processors. This development bridges the gap between classic studio hardware and modern pedalboard requirements.
Key Features and Technology
At the core of the H90 is the new SIFT (Spectral Instantaneous Frequency Tracking) technology. This facilitates low-latency Polyphonic Pitch Shifting, allowing for more natural and responsive tracking of complex chords and fast playing.
The unit features: * 62 total effect algorithms. * Two simultaneous algorithms per Program. * Comprehensive I/O for flexible routing. * High-resolution OLED display for intuitive editing.
Sound Character
The H90 is characterized by its transparent, high-fidelity audio quality. The new polyphonic pitch shifting is designed to be artifact-free, while the legacy algorithms provide the lush, expansive reverbs and precise delays that Eventide is known for. The inclusion of rackmount-derived algorithms ensures that the pedal can achieve professional studio textures that were previously unavailable in a compact format.
User Suitability
This pedal is primarily aimed at professional live performers, studio musicians, and sound designers who require a vast palette of high-quality effects. Because it can replace multiple individual pedals—such as dedicated delays, reverbs, or pitch shifters—it suits those looking to streamline their signal chain without sacrificing sonic complexity.
Comparison to Alternatives
Compared to single-effect units like the Boss DD-3T or specialized pedals like the Digitech Whammy Ricochet, the H90 offers a much broader scope of utility. While pedals like the Fender Hammertone Flanger or Electro Harmonix Big Muff provide a specific, singular sound, the H90 acts as a programmable workstation. Compared to its predecessor, the H9 Max, the H90 offers doubled processing power and the ability to run two algorithms simultaneously.
Related gear
£97.00 ($123)Electro Harmonix
Electro Harmonix Big Muff Distortion Sustainer w/ Tone Wicker
£129.00 ($164)Digitech
Digitech Whammy Ricochet Guitar Effects Pedal
£85.00 ($108)Fender
Fender Hammertone Flanger Pedal
£19.90 ($25)Behringer
Behringer UC200 Ultra Chorus Pedal
£259.00 ($329)Dunlop
Dunlop Mick Ronson Cry Baby Wah
£77.00 ($98)Yamaha
Yamaha FC7 Expression Pedal
£175.00 ($222)Boss
Boss DD-3T Digital Delay Pedal
£99.10 ($126)Boss
Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor Guitar Pedal
Frequently asked questions
- How many algorithms are included in the Eventide H90?
- The H90 comes with 62 effect algorithms in total. This includes all 52 algorithms from the H9 Max and 10 brand new ones developed specifically for this platform.
- What is SIFT technology?
- SIFT stands for Spectral Instantaneous Frequency Tracking. It is a proprietary Eventide technology used to achieve low-latency, highly accurate polyphonic pitch shifting.
- Can the H90 run more than one effect at a time?
- Yes, the H90 is designed to run two separate effect algorithms simultaneously within a single Program. This is a major upgrade over the single-algorithm limitation of the original H9.
- Does the H90 include vintage rackmount effects?
- Yes, it incorporates three legendary effects derived from Eventide's historic rackmount processors. These are included among the 10 new algorithms unique to the H90.
- What kind of processing architecture does the H90 use?
- The pedal utilizes an ARM-based architecture. This allows for superior effects processing and lower latency compared to conventional digital effect pedals.
- Is the H90 suitable for polyphonic pitch shifting?
- Yes, the H90 features a new low-latency Polyphonic Pitch Shifting mode. It uses SIFT technology to track complex chords and intervals more accurately than traditional shifters.
- What are the primary categories of effects in the H90?
- The pedal covers a wide range of categories including classic reverbs, delays, modulation, and cutting-edge experimental processing. It also includes distortion and pitch-shifting tools.
- How does the H90 compare to the H9 Max?
- The H90 includes everything found in the H9 Max but adds 10 new algorithms and more powerful ARM hardware. Crucially, it allows users to use two algorithms at once, whereas the H9 is limited to one.
- Who is the H90 designed for?
- It is intended for live performers and guitarists who need an all-in-one multi-effects solution. Its high-fidelity processing also makes it suitable for studio use by sound designers.
- Can I use an expression pedal with the H90?
- Yes, the H90 supports external controllers. Users often pair it with devices like the Yamaha FC7 Expression Pedal to control effect parameters in real-time.
- Is the H90 a good replacement for a standard delay pedal?
- While a standard pedal like the Boss DD-3T is simpler, the H90 provides significantly more depth. It can replicate standard digital delays while also offering complex rhythmic and pitch-shifted echoes.
- What is the typical price of the Eventide H90?
- The typical retail price for the Eventide H90 Harmonizer Pedal is approximately £797. This reflects its status as a flagship, professional-grade processor.
