Electro-Harmonix Clone Theory (Chorus/Vibrato)

Iit is not hard to use. There isn't really much to it.

I've tried this with all my amps (old Boogie MarkI, new Mesa Roadster, small Epiphone Valve Jr., Marshall Valvestate) and a small arsenal of guitars.
There is no way to get rid of the hiss/swoosh/static noise.
It renders it completely unusable. In effects like Overdrive or Distortion a certain amount of pedal noise is unavoidable.
But in a Chorus/Vibrato pedal?
I've run it in front of the amp and it sucked. I ran it through the effects loop, thinking it might respond better, and it was even worse: no volume, more hiss.
Ridiculously bad.
These type of effects need to be transparent for them to even be considered. Grossly offensive.
I honestly don't know how this one made it out the door at E-H.

I'm pretty sure it would work everytime I used it. My other E-H effects are bomber.
But I'm also sure it would sound terrible every time I used it.

Don't know. But anyone who would create a pedal this bad...

I play all styles of music. But that's not the point.
I'm now using a regular old Boss Chorus pedal. And lo and behold, no hiss.
I also have a Rotovibe pedal, but you can't get it to stop oscillating even when it's off. Even though its sound is transparent the sweep isn't.
The old Boss is the way to go.

My Clone Theory is the reissue. This is pretty easy to use. There are three settings and two controls (rate and depth): Chorus 1 (a classic chorus sound) with pre-set depth; Chorus 2 with adjustable rate and depth for the "wet" sound, and Vibrato which mutes the "dry" sound entirely and allows adjustment of rate and depth for the wet sound.

Most of the reviews here are accurate. The thing is pretty noisy and boosts volume, but I have mitigated both issues (which of course are related because the added volume brings in da noise) by placing in the effects loop of my Marshall which happens to allow you to adjust the volume of the loop, so in my set-up this works great. If you don't have a volume control in your effects loop, you could solder one in line or even put a resistor on the output jack of the effect.
The other point reviewers have made is that extreme positions of the rate and depth controls are unusable....probably right. I tend to use only the Chorus 1 and once-in-a-while the Vibrato setting with lower rate positions and the effect is very natural and lush: loose-sounding unlike the Small Clone. I tend to use this with clean amp settings.

I bought this cheap and it's never let me down.

No idea

This is a one-trick pony but a nice pony: lovely and lush, very analog-sounding.

It's pretty straightforward. The manual explains everything you need to know on the operation of the unit. I think the pedal could have gone without the chorus 1 setting since it disables the depth knob. Both the rate knob and depth knob seem to be pretty touchy, thus making it a little difficult to dial in the exact tone you are looking for.

Sound quality is okay. You can get a nice chorus sound out of it if you can dial in correctly. The vibrato is the same way. Either effect becomes almost musically unusable after the depth knob is past about 12:00; however, just as most other EHX pedals, you can get some pretty crazy sounds by turning the depth and rate up.

The biggest complaint I have with the pedal is the hiss that is extraordinarily loud when the pedal is engaged. If it wasn't for the hiss I would give this pedal an 8. It gets a 7 because once you get the right tone dialed in, its really nice.

Its built like a rock. I've dropped it a couple times and it keeps on ticking (and hissing). I do gig with it, without a backup and I honestly don't think I'll ever need one.

Never had to.

Overall the pedal is decent. If you are looking for a cool pedal that can do chorus and vibrato, this is it. If you are looking for a nice chorus sound, there are pedals that do a better job of it. If this pedal was stolen or lost, I probably wouldn't buy another.

3 knobs nake it pretty simple to use, but the 2nd chorus mode and the vibrato can be a tad fiddly.

I'm using the box with a Genz Benz Black Pearl 30 and a Fender Super-Sonic combo (with a 2x12 cab). I used the unit inline with other pedals (not in either of the amps effects loops)

Broadly speaking, the sound is OK, but it is a very pronounced, assertive chorus sound (surely by design). As has been noted, it is quite different from the Small Clone. Far more shimmery, more "swimmy" and less tight. Parenthetically, I did not have access to the PolyChorus.

I read some earlier reviews here before picking up a reissue Clone Theory, and to be honest the noise this box generates is more significant than I expected. It is very noisy, so be forewarned.

Aside from the noise level, the 2 issues with the box are:

1. When you engage the effect, there is a significant boost in the overall signal level. In my rig, it is loud enough that it works like a pedal booster. It does this both in mono and stereo operation.

2. I know that this is by design, but the effect adds quite a lot of top to the tone. More in the presence range than treble, per say. Not screaming, but significant. Also, to my ears it makes the tone a tad harder (maybe in the 2-4kHz range)

Seems reasonably reliable, though I cannot comment on that from the experience of prolonged use.

I own and love other EH pedals, but honestly, I think the pedal is a mixed bag. The noise (and the other issues I mention above) are a real buzz kill.

One interesting thing to note is that pedal helped me realize that I want a chorus pedal with a mix knob. That would give me the ability to "tone down" the effect as desired.

Three knobs, one input and stereo outs. As long as you know the difference between Ch 1 and Ch 2 there's not much else to learn.

This is the new XO series model. As much as I love EHX pedals and bend to accomodate their footprints, the new size and AC taps are a welcome improvement.

Artists that I like that use chorus: Cocteau Twins, New Order, the Cure, Felt, the Church. The Theory can cover a lot of that kind of territory.

Chorus 1 has preset depth. Very shimmery chorus, and not overly deep, although it can get quite wobbly with the rate up. Generally the most usable mode for distortion/OD/fuzz.
Chorus 2 has adjustable depth and speed.
Both choruses seem to boost volume and add a bit of high end.
Vibrato is true pitch-shifting vibrato. It's simply 100% wet signal. Consequently, whatever you hear is a micro-second behind what you play and you loose a bit of volume. A nice trippy sound nevertheless.

There is a lot of delay involved in this chorus. It's a very slight room sound, probably only one or two repeats, and with an extremely short delay time, quicker than slap back. It adds a nice sense of space, but it's not as 'tight' as a Small Clone. My guess is that the wider notches this creates allows for the extreme wobble capability.
The rate will not go as fast as the Small Clone, but there's a fine bit of range overall.

This pedal adds a slab of white noise when engaged whether there's signal coming in or not. I e-mailed EHX and they claimed it was part of the design. (I though I had a bad unit) I don't notice it while I'm playing and the chorus sounds so fabulous that I've decided to accept the noise. Whether they would have lost something by cutting the noise, I don't know. 2 points off.

I haven't used the stereo capability so no comment there.

I've used it with a Dean Avalanche (fat strat copy) and Fender Limited Edition Tele (a sort of Les Paul/Tele hybrid--Korean made, humbuckers with coil tap) into an Epiphone Galaxie 25 (just had my tech install an Eminence speaker which made a significant difference) and a Vox AC30TB.

Other relevant gear notes: I also own a reissue EHX Small Clone, an Arion SCH-Z, and a Deluxe Memory Man (I mention this because it can do vibrato--the Theory is probably better sonically for that and is easier to set up), an Ibanez FL-9, and FL-99. The Theory is my favorite, but if you can't stand noise the Small Clone is the better choice.

I haven't had any problems with this or any other EHX unit. I'm pretty easy on my pedals though. The case seems very sturdy; an improvement over the previous EHX stuff.

I received a prompt reply to my e-mail. I've never dealt with EHX for repair or upgrade.

I ordered from Brad Fee at Tone Factor, a terrific person to purchase gear from. Highly recommended.

I dabble in a few different kinds of popular music, including blues, bluegrass, pop-rock, and soul. I actually dislike chorus for most of those types of music. It sounds a bit of place, especially when I'm trying to fit into an ensemble and trying not to stretch anything. Post-punk (as in the groups I mentioned, I'd also throw U2 in there, but they don't use straight chorus) is one of my favorite genres though, and this pedal is a nice fit for that style. It would also work for shoegazing and shoegazing-type bands (say, Ride or Starflyer 59).

I also own a reissue EHX Small Clone, an Arion SCH-Z, and a Deluxe Memory Man (I mention this because it can do vibrato--the Theory is probably better sonically for that and is easier to set up), an Ibanez FL-9, and FL-99. The Theory is my favorite, but if you can't stand noise the Small Clone is the better choice.

If it weren't for the noise, I'd give this thing a 10. I don't care too much, but I know some will.

The pedal has 3 knobs, chorus/vibrato mix, rate and depth. And one "edge switch" Very easy to produce desired effect if you have an hour.

There is a little noise from the unit, which is expected with a analog chorus/multiplier from the 1970's. This is the fourth chorus pedal I have used in my setup. I have gone from small clone(simple and sweet), to polychorus(insane sounds), Dod icebox(cheap and durable).
The chorusing reminds me of the small clone, but not as much speed! I like to have a quick waiver at times, and with a vibrato function I think EH should have sped up the rate knob. The edge switch I don't understand, I think it adds a nice gain so I leave it on. With the depth knob over 1/3, the chorusing becomes overwhelmed and too odd sounding for me.
The vibrato is less than great, I do like to mix them 1/2 way though, it gives a nice spooky quiver to a clean riff.
Overall, I really like the chiming sound of the chorus, top notch.
But none-the-less the CloneTheory is a good investment because of it's rarity.

I don't want to find out if the metal case is dentable, so I baby this one. It does look strong, quite a handsome pedal, and sexy.

Can't say.

Nice vintage chorus, excellent harmonics and sustained chime.
If I lost it, I would probably buy a TC electronic chorus
which doesn't take up so much room on my board.

This pedal is of course very easy to use. Just three knobs; one allows blending of the chorus/vibrato, the others are depth and rate (standard on any chorus pedal). A switch allows switching to flanging which isn't that useful.

When the chorus is on, there is audible noise added to the signal. I think most chorus pedals do this, since they are adding more delayed signal to the original so noise is multiplied. But the noise is minimal compared to the chorus on this thing. I own a Boss CE-2 and have tried the EH Small Clone, DOD 565 Performer (nice pedal but too many batteries) and some assorted other choruses. This is the best by far. It sounds amazing. It almost can make a guitar sound not like a guitar. With the vibrato it is possible to make the sound really waver in and out and it is phenomenal. I have bought about 12 pedals in the last two months and this is the only one I felt was worth reviewing. I would give it a 10 except for the tiny bit of noise.

Well-I just bought it and its been around since the 70s I think. And its still going strong. That sounds very reliable to me but I suppose I cant comment quite yet.

Never dealt with them. Hope they're nicer than Roland.

Getting into styles seems trivial but lets just say I play in a band where we want all of our sounds to be very processed sounding, nothing acoustic can sound like it is. The computer is the most important part of this but two things have helped my sound immensely: this pedal and a Roland GR-700 guitar synth. This pedal sounds amazing on just straight up guitar though and you should not pass up an opportunity to buy it. It truly does inspire you. If it was lost or stolen I would search one out for sure.

Like most 70's era stomps this unit is a no brainer, but due to it's surprising versitility it will take a while to discover all its capabilities.

This is the best sounding analog chorus I've ever heard. For those only familiure with digital, the sound here is more open with a wide soft texture - as opposed to the thick, bubbling sound of digital. This thing also produces a very realistic doubling effect, with just enough detuneing to simulate two guitarist with slightly different intonation. There is also a great frozen flange setting loaded with whistling harmonics. Some may have concern over the noise issue, but through a good series loop it is absolutely quite. As to any real criticism, the unit does suck a slight bit of low end (which can be compensated for), and there is no LED. Carefull with the Edge switch. It throws razer blades!

You can forget about having a backup for a Clone in good condition. I've only had mine since 1976!! but twenty-seven years of constant use should speak for itself (and my age).

I asked EH about bringing out a reissue and none is planned as the chip used in the Clone has been disontinued. Being that I've never had a problem I can't rightly comment on their service. I've heard that EH boxes are simple to repair, but if I found a good Clone I would'nt worry too much about it.

I've used the Clone Theory as a part of my setup continually for 27 years through a number of amps, from Marshall to Fender and others, with no problems, and it has excelled at every level. From prog rock in the 70's, pop rock in the eighties, blues in the 90's, to the fusion that I play today, the clone has work well in all the musical situations I've found myself in; especially where a good chorus sound or doubling effect, in particular, are needed. And if you are into experimental, this unit, like most EH boxes, might come in handy. Among the best analog choruses.

Really easy... just three simple knob to reach your sound... amazing the mixture between chorus and vibrato (really "vintage" :-)

One of the best chorus sounds i've ever heard... simply unbelievable...
The only regret is the noise made the unit... but in the 70's that was the best technology for a 230 m.ampere-18 volt pedal...

On arpeggios and "melodical" thing is always on... i've a Sambora mexican strat on a fender Hot Rod De Ville 4x10... simple perfect!!!

A perfect units... just a bit too much noise... but in the general sound of your band u won't anything!!! believe me!!! Just a great vintage chorus sound!!

Very easy to use. Three Knobs and one switch. Rate, Depth, And Chor-Vibrato. They are all pretty self-explanatory. The manual for it helps with some sample settings and explains how the knobs will effect the sound. With the Vib-flange switch on, it can take a wile to get a good setting because it kinda sucks, but It can be good for some sound.

This thing isn't noisy at all by itself. With distortion on it can make a little noise but it's not at all as bad as other people make it seem.
The sound on this thing are great. They sound so real and non-digital. With the vibrato on full, it doesn't even sound like I'm using a pedal: it just sounds as if I am doing it manually on the fret board. It's amazing.
You can get really good blues tones with it when the Chor-Vib knob is turned all the way clockwise, and the depth close to full on. If you Have it more turned to the vibrato side of the knob, it sound very live-nirvana-ish. You can do the heart-shaped box solo with this and distortion. If you flip the switch to the Vib-flange, and get some good feedback going, you can get the Radio-Friendly Unit-Shifter intro. I heard Kurt Cobain used one live for a while until it broke. Then he just got an EchoFlanger.

I think I could depend on it. I bought it from some guy that used it a few times back in 1982 then stuck it away. It is in mint condition! It even has the original box, warranty and instructions.
I think I could gig without a backup, but just in case, I bought two others ones as well(they are more scratched up, but they're backups, who cares?)
So far, none of the three have failed me yet and I don't think they will for a while.

I haven't had to deal with the company. I heard they suck though.

This thing is my new favorite pedal. You can make it go from lite chorusing to full blown show-stealing vibrato. It is capable of so many diffent sounds that I look forward to working with it every time I pick up a guitar and find new settings.
If it was stolen... well, I wouldn't let it get stolen. I would defend it with my life.
I've had many other chorus pedals before (Boss, Ibanez, DoD, even a small clone) and this one is by far the best. All the other pedals depth/rate knobs' range is in the first quarter turn of the theory's knobs. It takes chorusing to another level.
I wish it had a built in clock on the top of it so I know how much time I've spent playing it because I can get carried away. I've spent hours playing with it to find new settings and I stil am.
I've come up with so many new parts to songs using this thing. It's incredable