ACT Entertainment, a powerhouse in professional entertainment technology across North America, has built its reputation by supplying the lighting, sound, and video solutions that power everything from concerts to corporate productions. Now, the company is making noise—quite literally—with the launch of a new addition to its iconic RAT line: the Sterling Vermin distortion pedal.
For those who know the RAT name, it’s synonymous with gritty, no-nonsense distortion that helped shape decades of rock and alternative music. But this latest release offers something more refined. The Sterling Vermin isn’t just another variation—it’s a thoughtfully reimagined evolution of a classic.
A statement from the company discloses that the Sterling Vermin “delivers a new level of precision and versatility,” blending the vintage character of the original RAT with subtle enhancements aimed at today’s players.
Shawn Wells, Market Manager—Sound at ACT Entertainment, helped design the pedal alongside colleague Matt Gates. Together, they set out to create something that honors the brand’s legacy while offering players a fresh sonic tool. “The Sterling Vermin was born from a desire for something different — something refined, with the soul of a traditional RAT pedal, but with a voice all its own,” Wells said.
Hand-built in small batches at ACT’s Jackson, Missouri headquarters, the pedal features the classic LM741 Op-Amp — a nod to its lineage — but adds modern flexibility with two selectable clipping diode options. A statement from the company discloses that players can “toggle between the traditional RAT silicon diode configuration for a punchy, mid-range bite, or the BAT41 option for a smoother, more balanced response.”
In practical terms, this means the Sterling Vermin is capable of everything from tight, articulate overdrive to full-blown distortion with plenty of attitude—and it does so across a broad, usable tonal range. Whether you're after clarity in a complex mix or looking to push your amp into saturated territory, this pedal gives you the tools to dial it in with precision.
For guitarists who appreciate both heritage and innovation, the Sterling Vermin may be a compelling new favorite. It captures the raw edge of the original RAT sound while adding just the right amount of polish—like your favorite worn-in leather jacket, but freshly tailored.
