Description
The Rodenberg Killmister Killswitch Pedal returns with a more brutal and flexible design, perfectly tuned for live performance. The 2025 version transforms the iconic momentary kill switch into a dynamic effect tool featuring a continuously adjustable auto-kill mode. Whether you want sharp cuts, rhythmic accents, or glitch-style patterns, the Killmister puts full control of signal muting at your feet, allowing for creative expression across guitars, basses, synths, samplers, drum machines, and experimental setups.
At its core, the Killmister offers two modes of operation controlled by a rugged rotary knob. In classic mode, the signal is muted only while the footswitch is held down, ideal for live stutter effects reminiscent of Tom Morello or Buckethead. Turning the knob activates auto-kill mode, muting the signal at regular intervals with a stepless control that ranges from subtle rhythmic cuts to a rapid, machine-gun-like pulse. This versatility ensures you can dial in the perfect kill speed for any musical context without unwanted clicks or limitations.
Built with a special mechanical relay, the Killmister delivers hard, clean cuts and true bypass signal path integrity. The relay’s subtle clicking sound, reminiscent of an analogue sequencer or vintage drum machine, adds a raw, organic character to the pedal’s unique effect. In band settings or with distorted signals, this click is virtually inaudible, but it can be eliminated entirely by placing the pedal in an effects loop. Handmade in Germany and housed in a compact XS format enclosure, the Killmister is designed to withstand the rigours of live use while inspiring creativity.
Manual or Automatic Control
The Killmister’s rotary knob allows seamless switching between classic momentary kills and an adjustable auto-kill mode. This flexibility lets you tailor the effect to your playing style, whether you prefer precise foot-controlled cuts or continuous rhythmic pulses.
Stepless Auto-Kill Speed
With no preset steps, the auto-kill speed can be finely adjusted from slow, subtle muting to rapid-fire glitch effects. This stepless control ensures you can find the exact kill rate that fits your music perfectly.
Mechanical Relay Switching
The genuine mechanical relay provides hard, clean signal cuts and true bypass, preserving your tone. The slight clicking sound produced adds rhythmic emphasis and an organic feel, enhancing the pedal’s unique character.
Compact and Robust Build
Handmade in Germany and housed in a small XS format enclosure, the Killmister is built for durability and convenience. It operates on 9–18 V DC power and requires no batteries, making it reliable for live performance and studio use.
Key Features
- Dual Mode Operation – Choose between classic momentary kill switch mode or an adjustable auto-kill mode for continuous rhythmic muting, offering versatile control over your sound.
- Stepless Auto-Kill Control – Precisely dial in the kill speed anywhere from slow pulses to rapid machine-gun effects, allowing for subtle or aggressive signal slicing without unwanted clicks.
- Mechanical Relay for Clean Cuts – The special relay ensures hard, clean signal muting with true bypass, preserving your tone while adding a distinctive rhythmic click that enhances live dynamics.
- Compact Handmade Design – Crafted in Germany with a rugged, compact XS format enclosure, the Killmister is built to withstand live performance demands and fits easily on any pedalboard.
Specifications
Controls
- Rotary knob for manual or auto-kill mode adjustment
- Momentary footswitch for kill effect activation
Connectivity
- Input and output jacks for instrument and amplifier connection
Power
- 9–18 V DC power supply (no battery operation)
Construction
- Compact XS format enclosure (34 × 88 mm)
- Handmade in Germany
- True bypass switching
- Special mechanical relay for signal muting
