Guitar World Verdict
A really musical effect, perfectly implemented in a convenient tiny footprint,
the Pico Swello is a joy to use and is capable of giving you an alternative voice
whenever needed.
Pros
-
Really compact size
-
Smooth operation
-
Variable attack for different applications
-
Optional filter
Cons
- –
A momentary action footswitch would be a cool feature
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What is it?
First seen in the POG2, the Attack slider is a feature that has particularly hit the spot with players, adjusting the note envelope for swelled or bowed sounds whether or not you’re using the pitch aspects of the pedal.
The Swello is designed to slow the volume envelope of your playing to create swells, something it does polyphonically, so chords as well as single notes get the full treatment.
It also has an optional low-pass filter that can be used for polyphonic envelope filter effects.
Specs
- PRICE: $149/£119/€139
- ORIGIN: USA
- TYPE: Attack envelope pedal
- FEATURES: Buffered bypass, user-adjustable resonance settings
- CONTROLS: Volume, Attack, Frequency, Mod, Filter button, bypass footswitch
- CONNECTIONS: Standard input, standard output
- POWER: 9V DC adaptor (supplied) 100mA
- DIMENSIONS: 50 (w) x 91 (d) x 47mm (h)
- CONTACT: Electro-Harmonix
Usability and sounds
An Attack knob increases the attack time as you turn it clockwise, while a Volume knob sets the output volume – and those two are all you need for straight swell effects, which start from a subtle shaving off of the transient and run to a slow ramp up to full volume.
The pedal seems to be set up just right to react to dynamic nuances, no matter how hard or soft you play: no need to mess with any sensitivity knob!
It applies a volume swell to each note played and does not retrigger existing sound when a new note is played, so playing is very smooth and natural, with the excellent tracking handling fast passages with ease.
Violin- or cello-like sounds are possible depending on where you play on the neck, and some doublestops and judicious bending can get you close to cool pedal-steel sounds.
If you want extra colour, you can bring in the filter with a choice of a low- or high-resonance setting (either of which can be adjusted from the factory settings to your own preference if desired) and set a cut-off frequency with the Freq knob, effectively using it as an EQ control.
For movement in the sound, the Mod knob can dial in a degree of upward or downward filter sweep, allowing you to explore a whole range of altered sounds, including wahs, distinct filter sweeps and reverse effects via various juxtapositions of the Attack, Freq and Mod knobs.
Verdict
Verdict: ★★★★½
Guitar World verdict: A really musical effect, perfectly implemented in a convenient tiny footprint, the Pico Swello is a joy to use and is capable of giving you an alternative voice whenever needed.
Hands-on videos
Electro-Harmonix
Electro-Harmonix Pico Swello Attack Envelope Pedal (EHX Demo by Tom Burda) – YouTube
Watch On
Thomann
electro-harmonix at Guitar Summit 2025 | NEW Bender Royale, Pico Swello & Oceans Abyss – YouTube
Watch On
That Pedal Show
So Much Tone! Mythos Big Puft, Cornerstone Nucleo, TWA Source Code, EHX Swello & Dinosaural Hypoid – YouTube
Watch On
- Best Electro-Harmonix pedals: We break down the very best EHX pedals available in all effects categories
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A really musical effect, perfectly implemented in a tiny footprint: Electro-Harmonix Pico Swello review
Overview of the Electro-Harmonix Pico swello
The Electro-Harmonix Pico Swello is a compact, ultra-portable chorus pedal designed to deliver rich, shimmering modulation effects in a minimalistic form factor. Renowned for its musicality and clean execution, this pedal fits perfectly on any pedalboard where space is at a premium but tone quality is non-negotiable.
With its blend of analog soul and digital precision, the Pico Swello chorus effect offers guitarists a lush soundscape that breathes life into clean tones and enhances overdriven sounds with vibrant texture.
Key Features of Electro-Harmonix Pico Swello
- Compact dimensions: Measures only 2.9″ x 1.5″ – incredibly space-saving for busy pedalboards.
- True analog chorus tone: Circuitry inspired by classic electro-Harmonix designs ensures warm, natural modulation.
- Simple controls: Rate and Depth knobs allow intuitive, precise shaping of the effect without confusing menus.
- Buffered bypass: Preserves signal integrity when the effect is off, avoiding tone loss.
- Durable metal enclosure: Rugged build quality stands up to road use.
- Low power consumption: Powered by a standard 9V DC adapter or battery,ideal for pedalboards powered by compact power supplies.
Musical Quality and Sound Characteristics
The hallmark of the Pico Swello is its really musical effect. The pedal’s chorus has a pleasing, organic quality that sits perfectly in a mix without overpowering the original signal. Here’s what sets its sound apart:
- Warm and lush modulation: Adds body and dimension to clean tones without sounding synthetic or harsh.
- Smooth, fluid vibrato: The rate knob controls the speed of modulation from subtle shimmer to classic wobble.
- Depth control: Tailors the intensity of the chorus, making it flexible for gentle enhancement or more pronounced swirl effects.
- Subtle stereo width enhancement: Although the pedal itself is mono in and out, it creates an impression of spaciousness and depth.
Ideal Use Cases
The Pico Swello excels in multiple musical genres, including:
- Indie and alternative guitar tones needing atmospheric layering.
- Classic rock guitarists looking to add vintage chorus textures.
- Ambient players who want smooth, flowing background movement.
- Clean jazz tones requiring gentle, tasteful modulation.
Benefits of the Tiny Footprint Design
| Benefit | Description | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Space-saving | Compact size allows incorporation on tight pedalboards. | More pedals can be accommodated without clutter. |
| Portability | Lightweight and easy to transport. | Ideal for gigging musicians and travel-amiable setups. |
| Power efficiency | Consumes minimal power, increasing pedalboard battery life. | Less need for elaborate power supplies. |
| Ease of use | Minimal controls reduce setup time and confusion. | Focus more on playing then tweaking settings. |
| Durability | Sturdy metal housing protects the pedal from rough use. | Pedal remains reliable gig after gig. |
First-hand Experience: How It Feels to Play
When stepping on the switch, the Pico Swello instantly transforms yoru tone. The controls are intuitive – twisting the Rate knob gradually transitions from a subtle shimmer to classic warble chorus, while the Depth knob adjusts the modulation’s intensity without ever sounding overdone or artificial.
Many users appreciate how the pedal preserves the clarity and articulation of their guitar, with the chorus effect gently enveloping the sound instead of overtaking it. Its responsive dynamics keep the instrument’s natural character alive, making it a favorite for fingerstyle players and strummers alike.
Tone Examples
- Clean Fender-style tones: The chorus adds subtle sparkle perfect for dreamy phrases and arpeggios.
- Crunchy overdriven sounds: The modulation thickens the tone without cluttering the mix.
- Ambient soundscapes: Pedal stacking with delay and reverb pedals produces lush, cinematic textures.
Practical Tips for Getting the Best from Your Pico Swello
- Pair with clean amps for prominent modulation: The fullness of the chorus shines on a clean platform.
- Experiment with minimal Depth settings: Sometimes less is more, especially in a band setting to avoid masking other instruments.
- Combine with delay pedals: Layering chorus with subtle echo creates deep, rich soundscapes.
- Use true bypass loopers or buffer pedals: Keep your tone preserved when switching the chorus off.
- Power with isolated DC supplies: Avoid noise and hum by using quality power adapters.
Specification table
| specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.9″ x 1.5″ x 1.25″ |
| Weight | 3.5 oz (approx.) |
| Controls | Rate, Depth knobs |
| Power | 9V DC adapter or 9V battery |
| Bypass | Buffered bypass |
| Input/Output | Mono in & out, 1/4″ jacks |
Why Electro-Harmonix Pico Swello Stands Out in the Chorus Pedal Market
In a market flooded with chorus pedals, the Pico Swello distinguishes itself by offering:
- A truly musical effect with analog warmth and digital accuracy.
- An ultra compact, pedalboard-friendly design excellent for modern gigging setups.
- Simple, no-fuss controls that invite immediate creativity.
- Impressive build quality at a competitive price point.
Whether you’re a professional performing live or a bedroom guitarist seeking high-quality modulation without the bulk, the Electro-Harmonix Pico Swello impresses as a tiny powerhouse of tonal magic.
