1987 ProCo Small Box RAT - Black with White Lettering
 
Brace yourself for some serious vintage distortion—this 1987 ProCo Small Box RAT is a pedal packed with character, powered by the legendary Motorola LM308N chip.
 
The LM308N is an operational amplifier (op-amp) that first became popular in the late ‘70s for its high-performance, low-noise capabilities. Originally designed for precision audio applications, it found a legendary home in guitar pedals, with the ProCo RAT being one of its most iconic uses. The Motorola-manufactured version of this chip is especially sought after by gearheads and collectors alike, as it’s considered the gold standard of RAT chips. Why? Because Motorola's manufacturing process resulted in a slightly warmer, more organic distortion compared to later versions of the LM308N, giving the pedal a fuller and more dynamic tone.
 
This specific version is increasingly rare, with only a limited number of vintage RATs containing the Motorola LM308N—which is why it’s often considered more desirable than other iterations that used chips from different manufacturers, like National Semiconductor. For collectors, owning a Motorola-equipped RAT isn’t just about having a pedal; it’s about holding onto a piece of tonal history.
 
As for the sound? Expect a distortion that’s deliberately filthy, with a growl that cuts through the mix with ease. The Motorola chip provides a gritty, aggressive bite that’s balanced with a surprising warmth, making it perfect for everything from fuzzed-out solos to gnarly, high-gain riffs.
 
If you’re after a vintage RAT with that sweet Motorola touch—along with a piece of pedal history that’s sure to become even more valuable over time—this 1987 model is a must-have for your collection.