MXR M195 Noise Clamp

A noise gate designed for modern pedalboards (and noisy effects)

The Noise Clamp was created to address a very practical issue: stacking overdrive, distortion, fuzz, and modulation pedals can quickly lead to overwhelming background noise. The unique feature of this model is its integrated effects loop : instead of "cutting" your entire signal abruptly, you can isolate the noisiest part of your chain and treat it intelligently, while preserving your tone's character.

The result: you maintain a natural playing feel, with clean muting between notes, without sacrificing attack or riff clarity.

Who it's for, and the styles where the MXR M195 excels

This pedal suits both guitarists new to pedalboard constraints and experienced musicians seeking a reliable live setup. It shines especially when playing with high gain : modern rock, metal, hard rock, punk, or even fusion-anywhere rhythmic precision and tight stops are part of the game.

In the studio, it helps keep takes clean (less hiss between phrases, crisper pauses). On stage, it makes the rig more comfortable: less noise when restarting, and controlled silence as soon as you mute the strings.

Trigger control, Send/Return loop, and simple daily operation

The interface is intentionally straightforward: a single Trigger control sets the threshold at which the gate opens. Set it low to let softer passages breathe, or raise it for stricter silence on tight palm-muted rhythms.

The effects loop lets you insert your noisiest pedals into the noise reduction circuit. Practically, it's an excellent spot for vintage or analog effects that are a bit "alive," or simply for a full high-gain section. The green LED provides instant visual feedback on the noise gate's status, handy on a crowded pedalboard or in live conditions.

Sound

A good noise gate shouldn't "sound" like anything: it should disappear. Here, the goal is to preserve definition and precision even at high saturation levels, while sharply reducing background noise. Properly set, the Noise Clamp retains note attack, respects right-hand dynamics, and avoids overly audible pumping effects.

The overall character remains focused on cleanliness and clarity : your riffs stay tight, your stops are crisp, and effects placed in the loop remain more usable, especially when they tend to generate hiss.

Technical specifications

Effects	Noise Gate	EQ	No
Technology	Analog	Settings	trigger
Format	Pedal	Use	guitar
Inputs	Jack	Color	Black
Outputs	Jack	Power supply included	No
True bypass	Yes	Power supply	9V battery, DC 9 V

Category	noise gate (noise reducer)	Effects loop	Send/Return on 6.35mm Jack
Expression pedal	no	Required power	DC 9V or 9V battery
Control	Trigger (trigger threshold)	Consumption	13 mA
Volume reduction	up to 26 dB	Compatible adapters (not included)	MDU ECB003E or DC-BRICK