MXR SMART GATE PRO RACK

A "pro" noise gate in rack format, tailored for modern rigs

The Rack Smart Gate Pro follows the line of noise gates designed to tame high-gain chains, dense pedalboards, and rack setups (preamps, multi-effects, stereo systems). The idea is simple: cut what shouldn't be heard during silences while respecting the attack, dynamics, and sustain when you play. In a 19-inch 1U format, it fits neatly into a touring rack or studio control room, where stability and repeatability of settings make all the difference.

For whom, for which styles, and in what contexts?

The Smart Gate Pro is aimed at guitarists and bassists who want a cleaner sound without the feeling of "pumping". It is particularly effective in rock, hard rock, metal, djent, punk, or fusion, whenever saturation and compression reveal background noise. In the studio, it allows for cleaner takes and crisper stops while limiting retakes. Live, it secures your sound against power fluctuations, lighting, large stages, and long cable runs.

It is also very suitable for musicians who alternate between clean tones and heavy distortion: the goal is not to "sterilize" the playing but to maintain precise articulation between notes, especially on palm mutes, choppy riffs, and clean stops.

Controls, modes, and operating logic

The Rack Smart Gate Pro detects your signal level and applies noise reduction at the right moment. The threshold (trigger/threshold) is adjustable to decide at which level the gate opens. Below that, the module reduces background noise to clean up silences. Depending on your rig, you can adjust the release speed via the Variable Release Time : a faster release favors very sharp cuts (ideal for tight rhythms), while a slower release lets note endings and ambience breathe.

To adapt to different types of noise, the Smart Gate Pro offers reduction ranges (for example, to mainly treat hiss, a more intrusive midrange zone, or a broader reduction). The bypass remains designed for transparency so that your chain retains its original character when the effect is disabled.

Sound

A good noise gate is not "heard": it is felt in the clarity of silences, hiss control, and rhythmic precision. The Smart Gate Pro aims for effective reduction while maintaining a natural behavior on pick attack and playing dynamics. Properly set, it avoids cutting sustain and limits the "slamming door" effect on phrase endings.

In the Smart Gate spirit, it reflects an approach appreciated by guitarists accustomed to demanding rigs and modern high-gain tones: the Smart Gate family is notably associated with artists like Marty Friedman and Mark Tremonti, who seek effective cleanup without sacrificing the character of their sound.

Technical specifications

Effects	Noise Gate	Type	sector
Technology	Analog	Use	guitar, Bass
Format	Rack	Color	Black
EQ	No

Height	1U	Audio outputs	2 x 6.35mm Jack (mono)
Design	robust for intensive use	Pass connectivity	2 x 6.35mm Jack
Bypass	transparent (effect out of circuit)	Remote inputs (control)	2 x 6.35mm Jack
Selectable reduction ranges	Hiss, Mid, Full	Country of manufacture	USA
Adjustment	Trigger Level (threshold) per channel	Required power supply	18V (center negative)
Control	Variable Release Time (speed/release)	Consumption	17 mA
Audio inputs	2 x 6.35mm Jack (mono)