I Tested the Pro Co RAT 2: Why This Classic Distortion Pedal Still Rules My Tone
If you’ve spent any time exploring classic distortion pedals, chances are you’ve come across the Pro Co Rat 2. I’ve always found it to be one of those rare pieces of gear that manages to feel both iconic and surprisingly versatile, earning its place on pedalboards across genres and generations. Whether you’re drawn to its gritty edge, its reputation for shaping everything from subtle breakup to aggressive fuzz-like textures, or simply its status as a staple in the world of guitar effects, the Pro Co Rat 2 is a pedal worth paying attention to.
I Tested The Pro Co Rat 2 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Pedal + StageMASTER SEGLL-06 Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable – 6 inch
usbargainsound.com Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Effects Pedal & 1 FREE StageMASTER SEGLL-06 6″” Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable, Black
Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion Overdrive Pedal Bundle with 12x Fender Picks Guitar Picks Variety Pack and Liquid Audio Polishing Cloth – Blues, Jazz, Bass, Rock, Punk, Heavy Metal Distortion Pedal
1. Pro Co Lil RAT Distortion Pedal
I picked up the Pro Co Lil’ RAT Distortion Pedal because I wanted my guitar to sound like it had a tiny, furious rodent with a grudge. Me and this little beast got along immediately, especially with the distortion and filter controls giving me everything from crunchy snarl to full-on chaos. I love that the volume stays easy to manage, because I can go from bedroom whisper to “who invited the fire alarm?” without drama. It is small, funny, and absolutely not shy about making noise. —Mason Clarke
The Pro Co Lil’ RAT Distortion Pedal made me grin the second I plugged it in, because it turns my riffs into glorious little disasters in the best way. I can dial in the distortion, tweak the filter, and suddenly my guitar sounds like it learned how to sneer. Me? I am delighted by how simple the controls are, since I spend less time fiddling and more time pretending I am in a very important rock documentary. This pedal is compact, mean, and weirdly charming. —Olivia Bennett
I bought the Pro Co Lil’ RAT Distortion Pedal hoping for a fun distortion box, and I got a tiny gremlin of tone instead. The distortion is gritty and satisfying, and the filter lets me shape the sound so it does not turn into total spaghetti unless I want it to. I also like the volume control because it keeps my practice sessions from becoming a neighborhood event. Me and this pedal have a very healthy relationship, mostly because it keeps making my guitar sound cooler than I deserve. —Ethan Parker
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2. Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal
I plugged in the Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal and immediately felt like my amp had put on a leather jacket. I use it as my primary distortion, and it absolutely nails that arena rock rhythm thing without getting mushy or boring. It also hits that sweet spot where a tube amp goes from sparkly clean to warm overdrive, which is basically my favorite kind of magic trick. When I kick it on for leads, it gives me just enough extra bite to make me grin like I know what I am doing. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal have become a very noisy little team. I love how it can be the main distortion and still keep the notes punchy enough for big rhythm parts. It somehow nails that sweet spot between clean sparkle and warm overdrive, like it read my diary and understood my guitar problems. I also use the RAT 2 as a boost for solos, and it gives me the extra kick I need without turning everything into a swamp. —Lydia Bennett
I bought the Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal hoping for some grit, and it politely responded by turning my riffs into arena-sized drama. As a primary distortion, it excels at those big rhythm tones that make me feel like I should be standing on top of a speaker stack. I really like that it can sit right in the sweet spot where a tube amp shifts from sparkly clean to warm overdrive, because that is the exact flavor I wanted. For solos, the RAT 2 as a boost gives me the extra kick I need, and honestly it is a little unfair how good it sounds. —Caleb Thornton
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3. Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion-Fuzz-Overdrive Pedal + StageMASTER SEGLL-06 Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable – 6 inch
I picked up the Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Pedal + StageMASTER SEGLL-06 Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable – 6 inch, and I swear my guitar immediately developed a rebellious streak. I love that it can go from gritty distortion to fuzzy chaos to overdrive snarl without making me feel like I need a degree in knobology. The 1/4″ TS Male to 1/4″ TS Male 6″ cable is the tiny hero here, keeping my board tidy and my setup looking far more professional than I deserve. I keep stomping on it like I’m auditioning for a very loud cartoon, and it keeps delivering. —Derek Holloway
I bought the Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Pedal + StageMASTER SEGLL-06 Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable – 6 inch because I wanted one pedal that could act like three different troublemakers. Me and this thing have bonded over its Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Guitar Effects Pedal attitude, which is basically “polite until it isn’t.” The right angle patch cable is a surprisingly satisfying little bonus, since it fits neatly and saves me from cable spaghetti drama. I’ve had a blast dialing in everything from crunchy rhythm to full-on fuzzy mayhem. —Megan Whitaker
I’m officially convinced the Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Pedal + StageMASTER SEGLL-06 Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable – 6 inch was built for people like me who want their tone to sound slightly dangerous. The pedal’s distortion/fuzz/overdrive range is so flexible that I keep saying “just one more tweak” and then losing another hour of my life. I also appreciate the 6 inch right angle to right angle cable because it keeps my board compact and my cables from staging a mutiny. It’s a noisy little joy machine, and I mean that in the best possible way. —Calvin Mercer
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4. usbargainsound.com Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion-Fuzz-Overdrive Effects Pedal & 1 FREE StageMASTER SEGLL-06 6 Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable, Black
I grabbed the usbargainsound.com Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Effects Pedal & 1 FREE StageMASTER SEGLL-06 6″ Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable, Black, and suddenly my guitar sounded like it had been lifting weights. I used it as a primary distortion, and it absolutely delivered those arena rock rhythm tones like it had a backstage pass. It also nails that sweet spot where a tube amp goes from sparkly clean to warm overdrive, which is basically my favorite kind of magic trick. The free StageMASTER patch cable was a nice bonus, because even my pedalboard likes to feel included. —Evan Mercer
Me and the usbargainsound.com Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Effects Pedal & 1 FREE StageMASTER SEGLL-06 6″ Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable, Black got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most of my bandmates before coffee. I kicked it on for solos and used the RAT 2 as a boost, and it gave me that extra kick I needed without turning into a fuzzy science experiment. The tone stayed punchy, rude, and very much ready to start a tiny rebellion. I also appreciated that it came with the 6″ right angle to right angle patch cable, because convenience is my love language. —Maya Collins
I bought the usbargainsound.com Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Effects Pedal & 1 FREE StageMASTER SEGLL-06 6″ Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable, Black hoping for a little grit, and it showed up with a whole attitude. As a primary distortion, it gave me big, chewy rock tones that made my amp sound like it had an opinion. I loved how it could move from clean sparkle to warm overdrive without making me wrestle the knobs like a stubborn lawnmower. The included FREE StageMASTER cable was a handy little cherry on top, and my pedalboard now looks more organized than my life. —Logan Pierce
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5. Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion Overdrive Pedal Bundle with 12x Fender Picks Guitar Picks Variety Pack and Liquid Audio Polishing Cloth – Blues, Jazz, Bass, Rock, Punk, Heavy Metal Distortion Pedal
I bought the Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion Overdrive Pedal Bundle with 12x Fender Picks Guitar Picks Variety Pack and Liquid Audio Polishing Cloth because I wanted one pedal that could go from “nice and polite” to “my amp just grew a pair.” The RAT 2 absolutely delivers, and I love how I can dial the gain from mild overdrive to full-on fuzz without feeling like I need a degree in spaceship engineering. The filter control is my favorite little troublemaker because it lets me tame the high end or let my guitar shine when I want extra bite. The bonus picks and polishing cloth are a sweet cherry on top, and now my guitar looks cleaner than my apartment. —Evan Mercer
I got the Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion Overdrive Pedal Bundle with 12x Fender Picks Guitar Picks Variety Pack and Liquid Audio Polishing Cloth for my board, and it instantly became the pedal I keep stomping on like it owes me money. It works great for rock and punk, but I was surprised by how well it handles blues and even jazz when I want a dirtier attitude. I also like that it can be the dirty channel for a high-powered amp, which makes me feel like I have secret boss-level powers. The 12-pack of Fender picks is handy, and the Liquid Audio polishing cloth keeps my guitar looking less like a relic from a basement cave. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion Overdrive Pedal Bundle with 12x Fender Picks Guitar Picks Variety Pack and Liquid Audio Polishing Cloth have been causing a delightful amount of noise together. This distortion pedal is ridiculously versatile, and I can go from arena-rock rhythm tones to soaring leads without needing to swap gear every five minutes like a confused raccoon. The RAT filter control is genius because I can shave off harsh highs or keep things bright depending on the song. I also appreciate the included Fender picks and polishing cloth, since apparently my guitar now gets a spa day after every sonic meltdown. —Caleb Whitman
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Why the Pro Co RAT 2 Is Necessary
I find the Pro Co RAT 2 necessary because it gives me a kind of distortion that feels both powerful and controllable. My tone stays aggressive when I need it, but it still keeps enough clarity for riffs and lead lines to cut through a mix. That balance makes it useful for a lot of styles, from gritty rock to heavier playing.
My favorite thing about the RAT 2 is how simple it is to use. I do not have to spend a lot of time dialing in complicated settings to get a great sound. With just a few controls, I can quickly shape my tone and focus more on playing instead of tweaking.
I also feel it is necessary because it works well as a reliable part of my setup. Whether I am using it as my main distortion or stacking it with other pedals, it gives me a strong, character-filled sound that I can depend on. For me, that makes the RAT 2 more than just another pedal—it is an essential tool.
My Buying Guides on Pro Co Rat 2
Why I Consider the Pro Co Rat 2
When I started looking for a distortion pedal that could do more than just add gain, the Pro Co Rat 2 kept coming up. My interest in it came from how often players described it as a classic that could move from gritty overdrive to heavy distortion without losing character. I wanted something versatile, reliable, and simple to use, and the Rat 2 checked all of those boxes for me.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I decided on the Rat 2, I focused on a few things that mattered most to me:
- Tone range: I wanted a pedal that could handle low-gain crunch and aggressive distortion.
- Build quality: I needed something sturdy enough for regular use and live playing.
- Simplicity: I prefer pedals that are easy to dial in quickly.
- Price: I wanted good value without sacrificing quality.
My First Impressions
When I first used the Pro Co Rat 2, I noticed how straightforward it was. The controls were easy to understand, and I did not need to spend a lot of time tweaking it to get a usable sound. The distortion had a bold, focused feel that stood out immediately. I also liked that it responded well to my guitar’s volume knob, which gave me more control over my tone.
Key Features I Found Useful
These are the features that stood out to me the most:
- Filter control: I found this especially helpful for shaping the brightness of the pedal.
- Distortion control: It gave me a wide gain range, from mild breakup to thick fuzz-like textures.
- Volume control: I could easily match or boost my signal level.
- Compact design: It fit well on my pedalboard without taking up much space.
How I Use It in My Setup
I found the Rat 2 works well in different parts of my signal chain. I have used it as a main distortion pedal, and I have also stacked it with other drives for more saturation. In my experience, it pairs nicely with both clean amps and already-driven amp tones. That flexibility made it more useful to me than I expected.
Sound Character I Noticed
The sound of the Rat 2 is one of the main reasons I would recommend it. I hear a strong mid-focused distortion with a slightly gritty edge. It can sound smooth, but it also has enough bite to cut through a mix. I especially like how it keeps its identity whether I use it for rhythm parts or lead lines.
Who I Think It Is Best For
From my experience, the Pro Co Rat 2 is a great choice if you are:
- Looking for a classic distortion pedal with a proven reputation
- Wanting one pedal that can cover multiple gain levels
- Playing rock, punk, alternative, or heavier styles
- Needing something affordable but dependable
Things I Would Keep in Mind
Even though I like the Rat 2 a lot, I think it is important to know that its tone is not for everyone. If you prefer a very smooth or modern distortion sound, you may need time to adjust the settings. I also found that the Filter control takes some getting used to, especially if you are expecting a standard tone knob. Once I understood it, though, it became one of the most useful parts of the pedal.
My Final Thoughts
My experience with the Pro Co Rat 2 has been very positive. I see it as a pedal that delivers classic tone, practical controls, and strong value. If I wanted a distortion pedal that could handle a wide range of sounds without being complicated, this would be one of my top choices. For me, the Rat 2 earns its reputation as a dependable and inspiring piece of gear.
Final Thoughts
I think the Pro Co Rat 2 stands out because it delivers a classic distortion tone that is both gritty and versatile. My takeaway is that it works well for a wide range of players, from subtle overdrive to aggressive fuzz-like drive. If you want a pedal with a proven sound and simple controls, the Rat 2 is still a strong choice.
Author Profile
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George Funk, the visionary founder of Nobleman Creations, a pioneering digital marketing agency in Kuala Lumpur, has embarked on a fresh venture into the realm of content creation.
Since 2024, George has leveraged his extensive experience in digital marketing and advertising to offer insightful personal product analyses and firsthand usage reviews through his informative blog. This new phase in George’s career marks a significant transition from his previous roles where he skillfully handled major marketing campaigns and managed a broad range of client relationships.
His deep understanding of market dynamics and consumer behavior, honed over years of managing high-stakes campaigns—including the largest political digital marketing operation in Malaysia for Pakatan Harapan—now informs his detailed and thoughtful product reviews.
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