Let’s dive into the world of the DigiTech HammerOn, a pitch shifter that promises to spark your creativity like never before. With its unique features and intuitive controls, this pedal allows you to explore new musical territories, whether you’re jamming with friends or performing on stage. Buckle up as we explore everything this incredible device has to offer!
Beautifully weird intro
The DigiTech HammerOn is not your typical pitch shifter. When you open the box, you’re greeted with a manual packed with musical theory and suggestions, along with the pedal itself, some picks, stickers, warranty confirmation, and a universal power supply. It’s like a treasure trove of fun waiting to be explored! 
What is the HammerOn?
As a new member of the Wammy family, the HammerOn is compact and user-friendly. Unlike its larger cousins, this pedal is just slightly bigger than a standard pedal, making it perfect for those tight pedalboards. While it can drop-tune like the Drop pedal, it also allows you to shift pitches up, offering a unique blend of features that you won’t find in other pedals. 
Pedal Overview
Let’s take a closer look at the HammerOn. It features two foot switches for Pitch One and Pitch Two, a selector knob, and three buttons with LED indicators. The first button shows the dry and true bypass status, the second is for the trill function, and the third selects the mode for Pitch Two. The sixteen LEDs on top indicate the current pitch shift amount. This layout, while seemingly complex at first, becomes second nature once you get the hang of it. 
Exploring the first tones
When you first plug in the HammerOn, you might just want to start pressing buttons and twisting knobs. It’s a great way to find your sound! However, a word of caution: don’t bring this pedal to a gig without familiarizing yourself with it first. You wouldn’t want to disrupt your bandmates with a half-hour of experimentation during rehearsal. 
The “Impossible” Mode
Now, let’s talk about the “Impossible” mode. It allows you to go lower than you could ever play on the guitar. When you engage this mode, it can feel like you’re breaking the laws of music theory, but in a fun way! By combining it with the trill feature, you can create some truly unique sounds. 
The “HammerOn” Mode
The “HammerOn” mode is where the magic happens. This mode allows for instantaneous pitch shifts, making it a powerful tool for live performances. You can go up to two octaves or down two octaves, making it incredibly versatile. Whether you want to create thick, baritone tones or shift to higher pitches, this mode has you covered! 
Going back to the “Impossible” Mode
Returning to the “Impossible” mode reveals even more creative possibilities. You can speed up the trill to create rhythmic sequences that sound like nothing you’ve ever played before. It’s a bit chaotic but incredibly rewarding. 
The “Trill”
Next up is the “Trill” mode. This mode adds another layer of complexity to your playing. The pedal can sequence through different pitches, allowing for a variety of creative applications. You might feel like a mad scientist, crafting sonic experiments that push the boundaries of traditional guitar playing. 
I can still get weirder!
With the HammerOn, there’s always room to get weirder! You can change the notes and create a unique soundscape. Whether you want to go up a fifth or down an octave, the possibilities are endless. It’s more than just a pedal; it’s a tool for artistic expression. 
The “Sequencer” Mode
Now let’s explore the “Sequencer” mode, which allows you to step through various pitches. This feature is a game-changer for creating intricate melodies and harmonies. If you want to create a techno-inspired track, this is the mode for you! 
Let’s play around with all the things!
What’s great about the HammerOn is that you can easily play around with all its features. Whether you’re using the dry signal, the trill, or any of the modes, you’ll find a wealth of creative options at your fingertips. Just be prepared to lose track of time as you experiment with all the sounds! 
What about on an acoustic?
Can the HammerOn work on an acoustic guitar? You bet! If you find yourself without a capo, this pedal can act as your temporary solution. You can easily shift the pitch to accommodate any song that requires a capo. It’s a lifesaver for songwriting sessions or impromptu gigs! 
Back to the electric guitar!
After exploring the acoustic capabilities, it’s time to return to the electric guitar. The HammerOn continues to shine, offering new tones and creative possibilities for your electric setup. You can create sounds that range from melodic to downright experimental, all at your fingertips. 
Harmony time!
One of the standout features of the HammerOn is its ability to harmonize. You can layer harmonies intelligently, creating rich, full sounds that resemble some of the best guitarists in history. Whether you want to emulate Brian May or create your unique harmonies, this pedal can do it all! 
From Doom to Queen
The versatility of the HammerOn allows you to explore a wide range of genres, from heavy doom riffs to classic Queen-style harmonies. This pedal adapts to your style, making it an essential tool for any guitarist looking to expand their sound. 
Harmonies, Fiddling and Delay
Adding delay to your sound can elevate your playing to new heights. When combined with the HammerOn, it creates a sonic landscape that is both lush and intricate. You can experiment with different settings to achieve the perfect balance between harmonies and delay. 
Andy’s Verdict
In conclusion, the DigiTech HammerOn is a fantastic addition to any guitarist’s arsenal. It offers a multitude of features that not only serve as utility tools but also encourage creativity. For around $270, it might seem like a hefty investment, but if you’re looking for a pedal that can do it all—drop tuning, capo capabilities, and harmonizing—this is the one to get. Just be cautious if you have a bass player in your band; you might want to keep this gem to yourself! 
So, whether you’re an intermediate player or a seasoned pro, the HammerOn will undoubtedly enhance your playing experience. Dive in, explore, and let your creativity run wild!