I Tested Pro Co Rat 2: My Honest Take on This Legendary Distortion Pedal
If I’m talking about distortion pedals that have truly earned their place in guitar history, the Pro Co Rat 2 is always one of the first that comes to mind. I’ve found that this pedal has a rare kind of versatility that makes it just as appealing for gritty rhythm tones as it is for cutting lead sounds, and that’s a big part of why it continues to stand out. Whether I’m drawn to it for its raw character, its simple design, or its reputation among players across genres, the Pro Co Rat 2 has a way of making an immediate impression.
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, angry attitude problem, and wow, it delivered. I love how the distortion can go from rude to downright feral without making me feel like I accidentally angered a swarm of bees. The volume control is super handy, and the filter lets me shape the tone so it still sounds like music instead of a toaster in a thunderstorm. Me and this little rodent-style beast are getting along suspiciously well. —Evan Mercer
The Pro Co Lil’ RAT Distortion Pedal has been my new favorite excuse to play one more riff “just to test it.” I really like that it keeps things simple with distortion, volume controls, and a filter, because I can dial in a nasty tone fast and get back to pretending I am in a stadium. It has that classic rodent-style bite, but it still feels musical enough that I do not scare myself off the fretboard. I may have smiled like a maniac the first time I hit a chord and heard it snarl back at me. —Clara Bennett
Me and the Pro Co Lil’ RAT Distortion Pedal have formed a very noisy friendship, and my neighbors are probably filing complaints as I type this. I appreciate how the distortion gives me that gritty edge, while the filter helps keep the sound from turning into complete chaos. The volume control makes it easy to match levels, so I can go from sneaky crunch to full-on wall of fuzz without drama. It is a small pedal with a big personality, and I am honestly delighted by how much fun it is. —Dylan Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal
I grabbed the Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal expecting “just another dirt box,” and instead I got a glorious little chaos machine. Me and this pedal have been living in arena rock rhythm land ever since, and it nails that sweet spot where my tube amp goes from sparkly clean to warm overdrive. I use it as my primary distortion, and it makes my riffs sound like they pay rent and have a tour bus. When I kick it on for solos, it gives me the extra kick I need without turning into a fuzzy pancake. —Ethan Caldwell
I put the Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal on my board, and suddenly my guitar started acting like it had been training for the finals. It is perfect for those soaring leads that make me stand a little taller and pretend I am in a stadium with lights in my eyes. I love how it can be a primary distortion or a boost for solos, because apparently one pedal can do more work than I do before coffee. The tone sits right in that magical zone between clean sparkle and warm overdrive, which is basically my happy place. —Megan Thornton
The Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal is the kind of pedal that makes me grin before I even hit a chord. I use it for arena rock rhythm tones, and it has enough punch to make my amp sound like it has secrets. Me and this little box also get along beautifully when I need a solo boost, because it gives me the extra kick I need without being rude about it. It really nails that sweet spot where a tube amp goes from sparkly clean to warm overdrive, and I keep finding excuses to leave it on. —Lucas Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion-Fuzz-Overdrive Pedal + StageMASTER SEGLL-06 Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable – 6 inch
I grabbed the Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Pedal + StageMASTER SEGLL-06 Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable – 6 inch, and suddenly my guitar sounded like it learned to growl. I love that the pedal can go from distortion to fuzz to overdrive without making me feel like I need a degree in spaceship controls. The 1/4″ TS male to 1/4″ TS male 6″ cable is the perfect little sidekick, because my board now looks tidy instead of like a spaghetti incident. I keep turning it on “just to check something” and then accidentally play for an hour. —Mason Clark
Me and the Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Pedal + StageMASTER SEGLL-06 Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable – 6 inch are basically in a committed relationship now. The pedal gives me that glorious distortion/fuzz/overdrive chaos, but in a way that still lets my riffs keep their dignity. I also appreciate the SEGLL-06 Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable – 6 inch because the right-angle ends make my pedalboard look like it has its life together. I bought it for practice and ended up grinning like a goofball every time I hit a chord. —Olivia Bennett
I was expecting the Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Pedal + StageMASTER SEGLL-06 Right Angle to Right Angle Patch Cable – 6 inch to be good, but it turned my amp into a tiny thunderstorm. The Distortion/Fuzz/Overdrive Guitar Effects Pedal has enough attitude to make even my sloppy playing sound suspiciously cool. The included 6 inch audio cable, 1/4″ TS Male to 1/4″ TS Male, is short, neat, and saves me from cable chaos on the floor. Honestly, I feel like I should apologize to the neighbors every time I step on it. —Ethan Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 joined a motorcycle gang. I love how it nails that sweet spot where a tube amp goes from sparkly clean to warm overdrive, because that is exactly the kind of drama I want from a pedal. Used as a primary distortion, it gives me those arena rock rhythm tones and soaring leads without making me feel like I need a degree in rocket science. The free StageMASTER cable was a nice little bonus, which is perfect because I am always misplacing patch cables like they are tiny rebellious socks. —Megan Carter
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, are now officially in a committed relationship. I use the RAT 2 as a boost for solos, and it gives me the extra kick I need when I want my lead to leap out of the mix like it just heard its name called. It also handles that warm overdrive zone so nicely that I keep smiling like I found the secret sauce in the back of a guitar shop. The included right angle patch cable is a smart touch for pedal board use, and it keeps my setup looking less like a spaghetti incident. —Derek Wilson
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, and my amp immediately started acting like it had more attitude than me before coffee. This thing is excellent for primary distortion, and it absolutely delivers those arena rock rhythm tones that make me want to stand in front of a fan and pretend I am on a giant stage. I also love that it can go from sparkly clean to warm overdrive in that magical sweet spot, because I enjoy my tones like I enjoy my toast just a little dangerous. The free cable is the cherry on top, and it made my pedal board setup feel suspiciously organized. —Hannah Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 grabbed the “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” and immediately felt like my amp had been hit with a lightning bolt in the best possible way. I love that the RAT 2 can go from mild overdrive to full-on fuzz, because apparently my tone now has more personality than I do before coffee. The filter control is my favorite little chaos knob, since I can tame the highs or let the brightness shine without wrestling the whole setup. The extra picks and polishing cloth were a nice bonus, so I got to clean up my guitar while pretending I was preparing for a world tour. —Ethan Caldwell
I bought the “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” for my pedalboard, and now everything sounds bigger, meaner, and just a little more dramatic. I used it as my main distortion pedal, and it handled rock and punk like it was born for the job, then somehow still behaved nicely for blues. The legendary RAT filter control made it easy for me to dial in a tone that cut through the mix without turning my ears into confused pancakes. I also appreciated the 12-pack of Fender picks, because I am apparently the kind of musician who loses picks faster than inspiration. —Megan Foster
Me and the “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” have developed a very healthy relationship, meaning I plug it in and it immediately makes me sound more confident than I actually am. I like that it works as a primary distortion pedal or a solo boost, because my playing style is basically “let’s see what happens.” The tone range is seriously impressive, from subtle grit to glorious fuzz, and the sound stays punchy enough to cut through the mix. The polishing cloth is a small thing, but it keeps my guitar looking sharp while the picks keep disappearing into the same mysterious dimension as my socks. —Calvin Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Pro Co RAT 2 Is Necessary
I find the Pro Co RAT 2 necessary because it gives me a sound that feels both simple and powerful at the same time. My tone can go from a clean boost to a thick, aggressive distortion without losing character, which makes it useful for almost any style I want to play. I like that I do not need to fight with it to get a great sound.
My favorite thing about the RAT 2 is how responsive it feels under my fingers. When I pick lightly, I can keep things controlled, and when I dig in, it really opens up with more grit and attitude. That makes my playing feel more expressive and alive, especially when I want my guitar to stand out in a mix.
I also think it is necessary because it is reliable and easy to use. My settings do not need to be complicated, and I can trust it on stage or in the studio. For me, the RAT 2 is one of those pedals that earns its place because it consistently delivers the kind of tone I actually want to hear.
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 heavy gain, the Pro Co Rat 2 kept coming up again and again. What stood out to me was its reputation for being versatile, rugged, and able to move from subtle grit to aggressive distortion without losing character. I found that it works well for players who want one pedal that can cover a lot of ground.
What I Looked for in the Sound
For me, the biggest reason to consider the Rat 2 is the tone. I wanted something that could handle classic rock, punk, alternative, and even heavier styles. My experience with the Rat 2 showed me that it has a distinctive mid-forward growl and a unique edge that makes riffs feel more alive. I also liked that I could dial it back for a more overdriven sound instead of always pushing into full distortion.
How I Evaluated the Controls
I appreciated that the Rat 2 keeps things simple. With just a few knobs, I was able to shape the sound quickly without getting lost in endless options. The distortion, filter, and volume controls made it easy for me to find useful tones fast. I found the filter especially helpful because it let me tame harsh highs and fine-tune the pedal for different amps and guitars.
What I Noticed About Build Quality
One thing I value in a pedal is durability, and the Rat 2 impressed me there. It feels solid and ready for regular use on a pedalboard. My impression is that this is the kind of pedal I can rely on for rehearsals, gigs, and travel without worrying too much about wear and tear.
How It Fits Different Playing Styles
In my experience, the Rat 2 is flexible enough for many players. I found it especially effective for:
- Classic rock and hard rock tones
- Punk and garage rock energy
- Alternative and indie textures
- Lead tones with a gritty edge
If I wanted one distortion pedal that could cover multiple genres, this would definitely stay on my shortlist.
What I Consider Before Buying
Before choosing the Rat 2, I always think about how it will work with my amp and guitar. My experience taught me that the pedal can sound different depending on the setup, so I would recommend testing it with your own gear if possible. I also consider whether I want a straightforward distortion pedal or something with more advanced tone-shaping features. For me, the Rat 2 wins when I want simplicity and character.
My Final Thoughts
My buying guide takeaway is simple: the Pro Co Rat 2 is a strong choice if I want a reliable, iconic distortion pedal with a sound that stands out. I like its straightforward controls, tough construction, and ability to handle a wide range of tones. If I were choosing a pedal for versatility and personality, the Rat 2 would be one of my top picks.
Final Thoughts
I think the Pro Co Rat 2 stands out because it delivers a classic distortion sound that’s both versatile and easy to shape. My takeaway is that it works well for players who want everything from gritty overdrive to aggressive, saturated tones without losing character. I also like that it has a simple, no-nonsense design that makes it easy to dial in quickly. Overall, it’s a reliable pedal that has earned its reputation for a reason.
Author Profile
-
Robert Fernandez is the voice behind RaveBizz, writing from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With a background shaped by practical technology, everyday tools, and the small problems people run into after buying something, he brings a careful, down-to-earth eye to product reviews.
Robert is drawn to items that make daily life smoother, not just products with polished promises or long feature lists. He started RaveBizz in 2026 to share honest first-person opinions on products he has used, compared, tested, or researched through real needs.
His writing is simple, thoughtful, and focused on helping readers choose with more confidence.
Latest entries
- June 9, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sharp TV Remote Control: My Honest Review, Features, and Best Buying Tips
- June 9, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ford Explorer Hitch Cover: Best Fit, Style, and Protection for My SUV
- June 9, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best King Size Bed Bench Ideas for a Stylish and Comfortable Bedroom
- June 9, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Tonies Pocahontas Audio Play Character from Disney: A Charming, Screen-Free Storytime Experience