Gear article
Fender Hammertone Flanger Pedal
The Fender Hammertone Flanger is a compact modulation guitar effect pedal designed by Fender's in-house experts to deliver a range of swirling and resonant tones. It is part of the Hammertone series, focusing on high-quality construction and space-saving features like top-mounted jacks.

Overview
The Fender Hammertone Flanger is a versatile stompbox intended for guitarists seeking to add movement and texture to their sound. Designed by a specialist team at Fender, the pedal provides a variety of modulation effects ranging from subtle swirls to intense, tumultuous sweeps. It is housed in a robust enclosure that follows the aesthetic standards of the Hammertone range.
Design and Ergonomics
One of the primary design goals of the Hammertone Flanger is pedalboard efficiency. The unit features top-mounted input and output jacks, which allows for tighter placement alongside other pedals such as the Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor or the Boss DD-3T Digital Delay. The control layout is designed for ergonomic ease, ensuring that adjustments can be made quickly during live performances or studio sessions.

Sound and Character
The pedal is characterised by its ability to create a 'stream of modulation'. It is effective across various playing styles, including single-note lines, full chords, and complex arpeggios. The circuit is voiced to ensure every note resonates with a distinct swirl, providing the classic metallic and jet-plane textures associated with traditional flanging effects.
Target Audience
The Hammertone Flanger suits players who require a dependable, studio-grade modulation effect without the high price point of boutique units. Its straightforward interface makes it accessible for beginners, while the quality of the 'in-house' Fender design appeals to professional musicians who need a reliable tool for their touring or recording setup.
Market Comparison
Within the broader market, the Fender Hammertone Flanger competes with other standard modulation units. While pedals like the Behringer UC200 Ultra Chorus offer specific modulation, the Hammertone Flanger provides the distinct 'whooshing' character unique to flanging. It occupies a mid-market position, offering a sturdier alternative to entry-level plastic pedals while remaining more affordable than advanced units like the Digitech Whammy Ricochet or Electro Harmonix Big Muff variants.
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Frequently asked questions
- Who designed the Fender Hammertone Flanger?
- The pedal was designed by Fender's own in-house experts. This ensures that the construction and tonal qualities meet the brand's specific engineering standards.
- What is the typical price for this pedal?
- The Fender Hammertone Flanger typically retails for approximately £85. This makes it an accessible option for guitarists looking for professional-grade modulation.
- Does the pedal have top-mounted jacks?
- Yes, the pedal features top-mounted input and output jacks. This design choice helps conserve vital space on a pedalboard, allowing for closer placement of units.
- What type of effect does the Hammertone Flanger provide?
- It provides a flanging modulation effect. This creates a resonant, swirling sound that can range from gentle movement to a tumultuous sweep.
- Can I use this pedal for arpeggios?
- Absolutely. The pedal is designed to make every note in an arpeggio resonate with a distinct swirl, enhancing the texture of the playing.
- Is the design of the Hammertone Flanger ergonomic?
- Yes, the pedal features an ergonomic design intended for ease of use. The control layout and stompbox format are built for reliable operation during performances.
- How does this pedal compare to the Behringer UC200?
- While the UC200 is a dedicated chorus pedal, the Hammertone Flanger offers a different type of modulation. The Flanger provides a more resonant, metallic 'swoosh' compared to the smoother shimmer of a chorus.
- Will this pedal fit in a crowded pedalboard?
- Yes, its compact design and top-mounted jacks are specifically intended to save space. It is easier to integrate than pedals with side-mounted jacks like the EHX Big Muff.
- Is the Hammertone Flanger suitable for professional use?
- Fender describes it as a versatile unit that will be part of a setup for years to come. The in-house design and robust build quality make it suitable for both stage and studio.
- Does this pedal work well with high-gain effects?
- Yes, it can be used alongside distortion or fuzz pedals. For the cleanest signal path, it is often paired with utilities like the Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor.
- What kind of tone can I expect from the Hammertone Flanger?
- You can expect a stream of modulation that adds a swirling, resonant character to your guitar tone. It is versatile enough for chords, lead lines, and arpeggios.
- Is this pedal part of a wider series?
- Yes, it is part of Fender's Hammertone series of effects pedals. This range is known for offering essential guitar effects in a uniform, space-efficient housing.
