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Guitar World
Guitar World
Entertainment
Matt Parker

“It’s the guitar pedal equivalent of the Ark of the Covenant”: 50 years ago, Electro-Harmonix set the template for the future of guitar stores – then it disappeared without a trace. This is the story of the Hall of Science

A black and white image of Electro-Harmonix founder Mike Matthews, plus vintage pedals, on a neon background.

Few effects firms have had the impact or commanded the universal adoration of Electro-Harmonix. Without it, it’s highly likely that the pedal market – plus guitar playing and music itself – would look and sound very different in 2025.

The brand launched by Mike Matthews enjoys a position few others could manage. It’s become one of the most ubiquitous names out there, but maintains the aura of an indie builder. It’s both boutique and accessible; wild and dependable; liberal in its experimentation and, since its 1990s revival, conservative in its business.

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