Electro-Harmonix Deluxe Electric Mistress

The Electro-Harmonix Deluxe Electric Mistress (often abbreviated as Deluxe EM) is a classic analog flanger pedal introduced in 1978. Designed by Howard Davis as an upgrade to the original Electric Mistress, the Deluxe version featured several enhancements, including a larger enclosure with an integrated power transformer, improved noise reduction, and a redesigned Low Frequency Oscillator (LFO) and Voltage Controlled Oscillator (VCO) for a broader range of flanging effects. The Deluxe EM became widely popular for its lush, sweeping modulation and unique Filter Matrix mode, which allows users to freeze the flanger's sweep for metallic or static-filtered tones. After its initial production run ended in 1984 due to Electro-Harmonix's bankruptcy, the pedal was reissued in 1999 with modern updates.

Historical Development

• Origins (1978): Howard Davis developed the Deluxe Electric Mistress as a more advanced version of the original Electric Mistress, addressing issues like volume drop and noise while expanding its tonal capabilities.
• Reissues (1999): The Deluxe EM was reissued after Electro-Harmonix resumed operations. Due to the discontinuation of the Reticon SAD1024 Bucket Brigade Device (BBD), the reissue featured redesigned circuitry while maintaining its signature sound.
• Legacy: The Deluxe Electric Mistress remains a benchmark for analog flangers and continues to inspire modern effects pedals.

Notable Players

• David Gilmour (Pink Floyd): Used the Deluxe Electric Mistress extensively during Pink Floyd's Animals and The Wall eras, particularly for atmospheric textures and solos.
• Andy Summers (The Police): Known for incorporating it into his clean guitar tones to create shimmering modulation effects on tracks like "Walking on the Moon."
• J Mascis (Dinosaur Jr.): Frequently uses it for swirling, textural guitar sounds in his alternative rock style.

Popular Settings

The Deluxe Electric Mistress offers versatile controls for creative sound design:

• Gilmour's Smooth Sweep: Rate at 10:00, Range at 2:00, Color at noon for subtle, atmospheric flanging.
• Summers' Shimmering Modulation: Rate at noon, Range maxed out, Color at 3:00 for bright and chimey tones.
• Metallic Filter Matrix: Engage Filter Matrix mode, adjust Range manually to find static resonant frequencies for robotic or metallic textures.

Legacy

The Electro-Harmonix Deluxe Electric Mistress is celebrated as one of the most iconic flanger pedals ever created. Its rich analog tone, versatility, and association with legendary players have cemented its place in music history. Whether used subtly or dramatically, it continues to be a favorite among guitarists seeking lush modulation effects.