Guitar Pedals Guide
Effect type
There are numerous effect types to choose from, each offering a unique sound and characteristic. For example, if you want to add a touch of distortion to your guitar sound, the Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal is a popular choice among guitarists. This pedal provides a classic, hard-edged distortion effect that is perfect for rock and metal genres. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and lush chorus effect, the Electro-Harmonix Small Clone Chorus Pedal is a great option. This pedal delivers a rich and spacious chorus effect that can add depth and dimension to your guitar tone. Other effect types to consider include delay (TC Electronic Flashback Delay Pedal), reverb (Strymon BigSky Reverberator Pedal), and overdrive (Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini). Remember to choose the effect type that aligns with your musical style and preferences.
True bypass
True bypass is a valuable characteristic as it ensures that when the pedal is not actively engaged, the signal remains uninterrupted, thereby preserving the tonal quality and clarity of your guitar. Some outstanding examples of guitar pedals that possess this feature include Boss DS-1 Distortion, which boasts a robust true bypass switch, and the MXR Carbon Copy Analog Delay, featuring a true bypass design to prevent any coloration of your original signal. Other notable options leveraging true bypass technology include the Fulltone OCD Obsessive Compulsive Drive and the TC Electronic Flashback Delay & Looper.
It's worth mentioning that there are various market segments when it comes to guitar pedals with true bypass. At the premium end, we find options like Strymon TimeLine and Eventide H9 Max Harmonizer. These pedals feature advanced true bypass circuitry that totally eliminates any interference when not in use. In the mid-range segment, pedals such as Electro-Harmonix Canyon Delay and Looper and JHS Morning Glory provide excellent true bypass capabilities while retaining affordability. Lastly, the budget-friendly category includes offerings like the Behringer Vintage Phaser VP1 and Donner Yellow Fall Vintage Pure Analog Delay. Despite their lower price points, these options still ensure true bypass for enhanced sonic fidelity.
Analog or digital
Analog pedals provide a warm and organic tone, and are favored by many guitarists for their simplicity and classic sound. A great example of an analog pedal is the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi Distortion / Sustainer, which delivers rich and creamy overdrive with its vintage fuzz circuit. Another popular analog choice is the Ibanez Tube Screamer TS808, known for its smooth mid-range boost and warm overdrive.
On the other hand, digital pedals offer a wide range of tonal possibilities and the convenience of programmability. They often come with built-in effects and can emulate a variety of classic, boutique, and experimental sounds. One notable digital pedal is the Strymon Timeline Delay, which boasts 12 different types of delay, stereo outputs, and MIDI control options for precise parameter adjustment. Another versatile digital option is the Line 6 Helix, a multi-effects pedal with a vast collection of amp and effects models, offering a complete rig-in-a-box experience. While both analog and digital pedals have their own merits, understanding your preferred sound profile and functionality will help you make the right choice for your pedalboard.
Power supply type
The power supply is what allows the pedal to function, and it's important to match it with your existing setup to ensure seamless integration. There are generally two types of power supply options in the market: batteries or external power supplies. For those who prefer the convenience and reliability of an external power supply, products like the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 PLUS or the Truetone 1 SPOT PRO are popular choices. These power supplies function as isolated outlets, which help eliminate unwanted noise and ensure consistent power delivery to your pedals. Conversely, if you prefer the simplicity and portability of using batteries, the Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal or the MXR Phase 90 Phaser Pedal are excellent options, both of which can be powered by a 9-volt battery for ease of use on the go.
Number of effects
The number of effects refers to the variety of sounds and tones that the pedal can generate. Some pedals may provide a single effect, such as distortion or delay, while others offer a combination of multiple effects, allowing for more versatility in your guitar playing.
For those looking for a compact pedal with a wide range of effects, the BOSS GT-1 Guitar Effects Processor is a great option. This pedal offers over 100 effects, including various distortion types, modulation effects, and delays. It also features a built-in tuner and USB recording capabilities. Another contender is the Line 6 HX Stomp Multi-effects Pedal, which packs a staggering 300 plus effects into a compact unit. This pedal allows users to create their own custom pedalboard setups and offers advanced features such as parallel path routing and IR loading. Whether you need a pedal with a few essential effects or one that can rival a full pedalboard setup, there is a wide range of options available to cater to every guitarist's needs.
Switch type
The switch determines how the pedal is turned on and off, and can greatly impact the durability and performance of the pedal. There are different switch types available in the market, including mechanical switches and soft-touch switches.
Mechanical switches are known for their reliability and ruggedness. They use mechanical contacts to establish the on/off connection, ensuring a solid and consistent performance over time. Pedals like the Boss DS-1 Distortion and the TC Electronic Spark Mini Booster feature mechanical switches, providing a robust construction and long-lasting durability. On the other hand, soft-touch switches use momentary buttons that activate when pressed and can be a more budget-friendly option. The MXR Phase 90 Phaser and the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi are examples of pedals with soft-touch switches, offering a hassle-free and economical solution.
In conclusion, when considering the switch type for guitar pedals, choosing between a mechanical or soft-touch switch can have an impact on durability and performance. Pedals like the Boss DS-1 Distortion and TC Electronic Spark Mini Booster provide mechanical switch reliability, while the MXR Phase 90 Phaser and Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi offer a more budget-friendly soft-touch switch option. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and the desired longevity of the pedal.
Tone control
Some pedals offer a simple EQ section, allowing you to adjust the bass, mid, and treble frequencies. For example, the Boss GE-7 Graphic Equalizer provides a range of ±15dB for each frequency band, giving you precise control over your tone. Another type of pedal to consider is the Strymon Deco Tape Saturation & Double Tracker. This pedal not only provides EQ controls to fine-tune your tone, but also offers tape saturation and echo effects to add warmth and depth to your sound.
In addition to these individual pedals, there are certain grouped options available on the market. For guitarists who prefer a compact solution, the Line 6 Helix Stomp is a multi-effects pedal that features comprehensive tone control options. With its intuitive interface, this pedal offers various amp models, effects, and EQ parameters. On the other hand, if you are looking for more versatility, the Eventide H9 Harmonizer would be a great choice. This pedal comes with numerous algorithms including EQ effects, allowing you to sculpt your desired tone precisely.
Gain control
This knob allows you to adjust the amount of distortion or overdrive in your sound. If you prefer a clean and transparent sound, you might want a pedal with low gain; however, if you're into heavy metal and rock, a higher gain pedal is essential for achieving that gritty and distorted tone.
For those looking for a low gain pedal, the Ibanez Tube Screamer is a popular choice. With its legendary reputation, it offers a smooth overdrive and is known to be a versatile pedal, suitable for a wide range of music genres. If you're in search of a higher gain pedal, the Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal is worth considering. It delivers heavy distortion and has been a staple in guitar players' pedalboards for decades. Finally, for those seeking extreme amounts of gain, the EHX Big Muff Pi is a classic choice. Known for its thick, heavy, and sustaining sound, this pedal provides distortion that can cut through the mix with ease.
Level control
Level control allows you to adjust the intensity or volume of the effect produced by the pedal. It is crucial to have good level control as it ensures that the effect is properly blended with your original signal and prevents any unwanted clipping or distortion. Some pedals with excellent level control include the MXR Micro Amp+, which provides up to +26dB of gain with a TONE knob for additional tonal shaping. Another great option is the Boss DS-1 Distortion, which not only offers classic distortion tones but also has a LEVEL knob for adjusting the output volume and balancing it with your guitar's signal. For those who prefer a more compact option, the TC Electronic Spark Mini is a mini boost pedal that features a LEVEL knob and up to 20dB of clean boost for adding some extra punch to your sound.
Input/output type
This type determines how the pedal will connect to your guitar and your amplifier. There are a few common input/output types to be aware of:
Mono Input/Mono Output: This type is the most common and straightforward, where the guitar signal is received through a mono input jack and the processed signal is sent out through a mono output jack. An excellent example of a pedal with this input/output type is the Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal, which features a standard 1/4" mono input and output.
Stereo Input/Mono Output: Some guitarists prefer a stereo input to cater to stereo effects, such as chorus or stereo delay. One noteworthy pedal in this category is the Strymon Mobius Modulation Pedal, which offers stereo inputs for a rich, wide soundstage while maintaining a mono output for compatibility with most amplifiers.
Stereo Input/Stereo Output: For musicians looking to fully immerse themselves in stereo effects, pedals with stereo input/outputs are essential. One such premium option is the Eventide H9 Harmonizer, featuring stereo inputs and outputs to create an expansive and spatial sound. The stereo outputs ensure that the stereo effects are accurately reproduced when connecting to two amplifiers or using stereo effects loops.
Remember, consider your specific setup and needs before purchasing a guitar pedal to ensure compatibility and the desired sound output.
Pedal size
The pedal's size determines its portability and how it fits with your pedalboard setup. If you have limited space or often play gigs where transportation is a concern, you may opt for compact or mini pedals. For example, the BOSS DS-1 Distortion Pedal is a renowned compact pedal that offers a wide range of rich distortion tones while taking up minimal space on your pedalboard. On the other hand, if you have more room to spare or want larger footswitches for better control during live performances, full-size pedals might be preferable. In the segment of larger pedals, the TC Electronic Flashback X4 Delay stands out. This pedal not only features a spacious layout for easier access but also delivers a multitude of high-quality delay effects. Whether you choose compact or standard-sized pedals, finding the right balance between usability and portability will greatly contribute to your playing experience.
Weight
A lightweight pedal is crucial for musicians who frequently gig or travel, as it reduces the overall weight of their gear and minimizes the strain on their backs. A great example of a lightweight pedal is the 'Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal' weighing only 12.3 ounces. Another option is the 'Electro-Harmonix Soul Food Overdrive Pedal', which weighs a mere 11.2 ounces. Both of these pedals provide excellent tonal characteristics and are built to withstand the demands of live performances. If you are specifically looking for ultra-lightweight options, there are mini and compact models available, such as the 'TC Electronic Spark Mini Booster Pedal' and 'Xotic EP Booster Pedal' which weigh only around 3.5 ounces. Considering the weight of a pedal is crucial for enhancing portability and ensuring a comfortable playing experience.
Presets
Presets are pre-configured settings on a pedal that allow you to save and recall your favorite sounds easily. This can be especially helpful for live performances, where you may need to switch between various tones quickly and seamlessly. Several pedals on the market offer preset functionality, such as the Line 6 Helix Multi-Effects Pedal and the Strymon Timeline Delay Pedal. The Helix provides a vast range of amp and effect models with the ability to save up to 128 presets, making it a versatile choice for every guitarist. Alternatively, the Timeline features 12 delay types, each with its set of customizable parameters, and allows you to store up to 200 presets for instant recall, ensuring you always have the perfect delay sound at your fingertips.
Looping functionality
One excellent pedal that offers looping capabilities with outstanding sound quality is the TC Electronic Ditto Looper. This compact and straightforward pedal provides 5 minutes of looping time and unlimited overdubs. It also features a true bypass and 24-bit uncompressed audio to maintain the integrity of the guitar tone. Another option to consider is the Boss RC-1 Loop Station, a popular choice among musicians due to its robust build quality and user-friendly interface. With up to 12 minutes of stereo recording time, 24-bit audio quality, and loop synchronization with external MIDI devices, the RC-1 is perfect for advanced looping techniques. Both of these pedals offer looping functionality for musicians of all skill levels, allowing them to unleash their creativity and versatility on stage or in the studio.
Modulation effects
Modulation effects include chorus, flanger, phaser, and tremolo effects, each offering a unique sound.
One popular and highly regarded modulation effect pedal is the Strymon Mobius. This versatile pedal offers twelve different modulation types, from classic to modern, giving you a wide range of sound options. With its built-in tap tempo and ability to save presets, the Strymon Mobius allows for precise control and easy customization of your modulation effects.
Another option to consider is the TC Electronic Corona Chorus. This pedal is known for its lush and rich chorus effects. It offers different chorus modes, from the classic analog to the more modern tri and toneprint modes. The TC Electronic Corona Chorus also features a true bypass, ensuring your guitar's original tone remains unaffected when the effect is turned off.
Delay effects
First, the type of delay desired can vary from short and subtle to long and atmospheric, so it’s important to determine the desired delay time range. The Boss DD-7 offers a delay time from 1ms to 6400ms, allowing for a wide range of delay effects. Additionally, the number of controls on a delay pedal can greatly impact its versatility. The Strymon TimeLine boasts a comprehensive array of nine onboard knobs to fine-tune the delay effects exactly to one's preference.
When categorizing delay pedals, two common groups emerge: analog and digital. Analog delays, such as the MXR Carbon Copy, are often revered for their warm and natural tonal qualities. On the other hand, digital delays like the TC Electronic Flashback 2 provide pristine sound quality and offer a wide variety of delay types, including tape delay, modulated delay, and reverse delay.
Reverb effects
The quality of the reverb is determined by factors such as decay time, modulation, and tone shaping options. One outstanding option on the market is the Strymon BigSky Reverb pedal. This pedal offers studio-quality reverb sounds with a variety of parameters to tweak, including pre-delay, decay time, and reverb size. Its extensive presets and MIDI integration make it suitable for both live performances and studio recordings.
If you are looking for a more compact option, the Boss RV-6 Reverb pedal is a popular choice. It features a versatile range of reverb types, including plate, spring, and modulated options, giving you flexibility to experiment with different sounds. The RV-6 also includes a dynamic mode, which adjusts the reverb effect according to your playing dynamics, providing a more natural and responsive sound.
Another category to consider is budget-friendly reverb pedals. These include the TC Electronic Hall of Fame 2 Reverb pedal, which offers a wide range of reverb algorithms, from classic to atmospheric sounds. It includes TonePrint technology, allowing you to customize and download new reverb sounds from TC Electronic's library. Similarly, the Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail Nano Reverb pedal offers a selection of classic reverb types, such as spring, hall, and plate. Its compact size gives you the option to save space on your pedalboard while still having access to lush reverb effects. No matter your preference or budget, there is a reverb pedal available to enhance your guitar sound.
Distortion effects
The first is the type of distortion you are aiming for; some pedals offer a more classic, vintage distortion, while others provide a more modern, high-gain distortion.
One popular option for vintage distortion is the Ibanez Tube Screamer TS808, known for its smooth overdrive and mid-frequency bump. It preserves the natural tone of your guitar while adding some warmth and sustain. Another fantastic pedal is the ProCo Rat2, famous for its aggressive and raw distortion. Its versatile tone control allows you to dial in everything from subtle crunch to full-on, roaring distortion.
For modern, high-gain distortion, the Boss MT-2 Metal Zone stands out. It delivers intense distortion with scooped mids and cutting edge tones, making it perfect for heavier genres. Another excellent choice is the MXR M116 Fullbore Metal. This pedal showcases a super-tight low end and incredible note definition, ideal for shredding leads and palm-muted rhythms in metal music.
In summary, when choosing a distortion pedal, consider the type of distortion you desire and choose accordingly. The Ibanez Tube Screamer TS808 and ProCo Rat2 are outstanding options for vintage distortion, while the Boss MT-2 Metal Zone and MXR M116 Fullbore Metal offer great modern high-gain distortion.
Overdrive effects
One popular option is the 'Ibanez Tube Screamer TS808', known for its warm, tube-like tone that is perfect for blues and rock genres. With its simple knob interface, guitarists can adjust the overdrive intensity, level of output, and tone control to their liking. Another notable option is the 'Fulltone OCD', a pedal that offers a wide range of overdrive tones, from mild breakup to creamy distortion. The Fulltone OCD features volume, tone, and drive knobs, as well as a switch for selecting between low/hi peak modes, allowing players to sculpt their desired sound with precision. Other outstanding overdrive pedal options can be categorized into three groups: classic/mid-gain overdrives (examples: 'Boss BD-2 Blues Driver', 'Maxon OD808'), high-gain/amp-in-a-box overdrives (examples: 'Revv G3', 'Friedman BE-OD'), and versatile multi-drive pedals (examples: 'JHS Bonsai', 'Strymon Riverside'). Ultimately, the right overdrive pedal will depend on the desired sound and functionalities that suit your playing style.
Fuzz effects
The Big Muff Pi by Electro-Harmonix is a classic fuzz pedal that provides a thick and sustaining tone. Its extensive sustain control allows you to adjust the amount of sustain and the smoothness of the tone, while a dedicated tone knob lets you fine-tune the overall sound. Another excellent option is the Fuzz Face by Dunlop. This pedal offers a vintage fuzz tone with its iconic silicon transistor design, delivering warm and smooth tones that cut through the mix. Its simple layout with volume and fuzz controls provides an easy-to-use and straightforward fuzz experience.
Wah effects
First, look for a wah pedal that offers versatile frequency range control, allowing you to adjust the sweep and shape of the effect to suit your playing. The Dunlop Cry Baby GCB-95 is a classic choice, offering a wide range of wah tones with a smooth and consistent sweep. Another option to consider is the Electro-Harmonix Wailer Wah, which provides a vintage-style Wah effect with a clear and expressive sound. For those looking for more precise control over the Wah effect, the Xotic Wah XW-1 offers adjustable bandwidth and innovative operational features.
Among the range of Wah pedals available, they can be broadly categorized into vintage, modern, and boutique options. In the vintage category, the Vox V847 Wah is a beloved choice and offers an authentic replication of the classic '60s sound. For a modern take on the wah effect, the Fulltone Clyde Deluxe Wah stands out with its extended range and flexibility. For those seeking boutique options, the Mad Professor Simble Autowah delivers a unique auto-wah tone with various controls for customizing your sound. Remember to consider the overall effects you want to incorporate into your music, as wah pedals can vary in terms of their compatibility and performance with other effects.
Octave effects
Octave effects are a popular type of guitar pedal that can add unique tones to your playing. These effects work by modifying the pitch of your instrument, either by raising it one or two octaves or by lowering it one or two octaves. If you're looking to add some experimental or rich harmonics to your sound, octave pedals are perfect for you. One great option to consider is the Electro-Harmonix Micro POG. With its ability to produce a polyphonic octave generator, this pedal allows you to blend dry, sub-octave, and octave up tones together. It also features separate level controls for each voice, giving you full control over your sound. Another excellent choice is the Boss OC-3 Super Octave. Offering versatile octave effects, including Polyphonic Octave, Drive mode, and a unique OC-2 mode, this pedal allows you to create a wide range of sounds from classic octave effects to heavy synth-like tones.
Phaser effects
The number of stages determines the complexity and depth of the effect, while the depth control adjusts the intensity of the phase effect. The speed control dictates the rate at which the phasing effect cycles. For beginners or those on a budget, the MXR Phase 90 is a great option, offering a simple one-button design with a single knob for speed control. Intermediate players might want to consider the Electro-Harmonix Small Stone Nano, which features four stages and a compact design suitable for pedalboards. The Chase Bliss Audio Wombtone MkII is ideal for advanced players, with six stages, tap tempo functionality, and expression pedal compatibility, allowing for precise control and flexibility in phaser effects.
Chorus effects
Analog chorus pedals, such as the MXR M234 Analog Chorus, recreate the warm and organic tones of vintage chorus units. They often feature simple controls for adjusting the speed and depth of the effect. On the other hand, digital chorus pedals like the Boss CH-1 Super Chorus offer a wider range of sounds and settings, including stereo outputs and more advanced modulation options.
Another factor to consider is the versatility of the chorus pedal. Some pedals, like the Electro-Harmonix Small Clone, are known for their iconic chorus tones that work well for classic rock and beyond. Others, like the TC Electronic Corona Chorus, provide a wealth of customization options and parameter controls, making them ideal for experimental musicians and those seeking a unique texture to their sound. It's worth mentioning that there are also multi-effects pedals, such as the Line 6 Helix, that offer a wide range of chorus effects along with many other effects, making them a great option for musicians looking to have multiple effects in a single pedal unit.
Tremolo effects
Look for a pedal that offers a range of tremolo speeds and depth adjustments. The Strymon Flint Tremolo & Reverb Pedal is a great example, as it offers a wide range of tremolo sounds with various wave shapes and ramp controls.
For guitarists who prefer a vintage sound, the Electro-Harmonix Electric Mistress Flanger/Filter Matrix pedal is worth considering. With its unique "brush modulated" option and optical control, it provides an authentic vintage tremolo effect.
Alternatively, if you're looking for a versatile pedal with multiple options, the Boss TR-2 Tremolo Guitar Effects Pedal is a popular choice. It features a Wave knob that allows you to choose between tremolo shapes such as triangle and square wave, providing more customization options.
There are also specialized tremolo pedals designed for specific genres. The TC Electronic Viscous Vibe Vibrato/Chorus Pedal combines tremolo, vibrato, and chorus effects to create a dynamic soundscape suitable for psychedelic rock or experimental genres. Overall, consider your musical preferences and the desired range of tremolo effects when choosing the best guitar pedal for your needs.
Vibrato effects
Vibrato pedals add a distinct wobbling modulation to your guitar sound, emulating the technique used in violin and vocal vibrato. When looking for a vibrato pedal, it is essential to consider features like depth, rate, and waveform selection. The EarthQuaker Devices Aqueduct is a top-of-the-line option, offering an all-analog signal path, eight different vibrato modes, and extensive control over the modulation parameters. Another great choice is the Strymon Flint, which combines a vintage-style tremolo with a rich and deep harmonic vibrato, allowing you to achieve a wide range of tonal variations. Other notable options include the Boss VB-2 Waza Craft and the JHS Honeycomb Deluxe, both providing warm and smooth vibrato tones with versatile control options.
Compressor effects
One important factor is the ratio, which determines the level of compression applied to the input signal. A higher ratio (e.g., 8:1 or higher) will provide a more noticeable compression effect. A popular option among guitarists is the Empress Effects Compressor, which offers a wide range of ratio options from 2:1 all the way up to infinity:1.
Another important consideration is the attack time, which determines how quickly the compression effect engages after the signal exceeds the considered threshold. If you're looking for a fast attack time, the Xotic SP Compressor is a great choice, with a five-millisecond response time. Additionally, some compressor pedals, such as the Keeley Compressor Plus, include a blend knob that allows you to mix the compressed and uncompressed signals, adding versatility to your sound. Other notable compressor pedals on the market include the MXR Dyna Comp for its simple yet effective design and the Wampler Ego Compressor, which offers a comprehensive set of controls for fine-tuning your compression effect to perfection.
EQ effects
One important category of guitar pedals to consider is EQ effects, which allow you to finely shape the frequency response of your guitar’s signal. One notable EQ pedal is the Boss GE-7 Graphic Equalizer Pedal. Its seven-band EQ sliders allow for precise control over different frequency ranges, from 100Hz to 6.4kHz, effectively boosting or cutting desired frequencies. Another option worth mentioning is the Source Audio Programmable EQ. This pedal offers 10 adjustable frequency bands, each with a range of -12dB to +16dB, and it can save up to four unique EQ settings for quick recall. It also features a noise gate and MIDI capability, providing added versatility for live and studio applications. Both of these options provide excellent tools for shaping the tone of your guitar.
Noise gate
A noise gate pedal is designed to suppress unwanted background noise and hum that can be picked up by your guitar's pickups. One notable option in the market is the BOSS NS-2 Noise Suppressor Pedal. This pedal offers a threshold control, allowing you to adjust the sensitivity at which the noise gate engages. It also features a decay knob, which controls how quickly the gate closes after the input signal falls below the threshold. Another highly recommended option is the ISP Technologies Decimator II G String Noise Reduction Pedal. This pedal is known for its advanced adaptive tracking technology, providing fast and precise noise reduction. Additionally, it includes an input gain switch, allowing you to tailor the pedal for single coil or humbucker pickups. Overall, when choosing a noise gate pedal, it is important to consider factors such as threshold control, decay options, and advanced tracking technology for efficient noise reduction.
Expression pedal input
An Expression pedal allows you to have hands-free control over certain parameters of the pedal, such as the level, speed, or depth of the effect. This is great for guitarists who desire dynamic control during their performances or recordings. Some high-quality options that offer expression pedal inputs include the Strymon Timeline Delay Pedal, which allows you to control various parameters using an expression pedal, giving you incredible flexibility and creativity in shaping your delay sound. Other options worth considering are the Eventide H9 Harmonizer Multi-Effects Pedal and the Boss RV-6 Reverb Pedal, both of which feature an expression pedal input for added control over the modulation or reverb effects. With an expression pedal input, you can truly personalize your guitar sound and take your playing to the next level.
MIDI compatibility
MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) allows for the easy communication between different music devices, allowing for more versatility and control over the guitar effects. If you are looking for MIDI compatible guitar pedals, there are several options available on the market. One such option is the Strymon Timeline Delay Pedal, which offers MIDI in/out ports for easy integration with MIDI controllers or a DAW. Another excellent choice is the Eventide H9 Max Harmonizer, which not only boasts a wide range of effects but also allows for MIDI control, enabling you to access all of its features with ease. Finally, if you are on a budget, the Line 6 HX Stomp Multieffects Pedal offers MIDI control capabilities and is a great option for those looking for a compact yet feature-packed pedal.
Tap tempo
This feature allows you to control the tempo of delay and modulation effects by tapping on a footswitch. This is especially useful when playing in a live setting and need to match the tempo of a song.
There are several guitar pedals on the market that feature Tap tempo. One example is the Strymon Timeline. This pedal offers a comprehensive range of delay effects and allows you to sync them easily to the song's tempo with its built-in Tap tempo function. Another option is the Boss DD-500. This pedal offers a wide variety of delay effects and modulation options, all of which can be controlled with the Tap tempo feature. Additionally, the TC Electronic Flashback 2 is a versatile delay pedal with Tap tempo that allows you to choose from a range of delay types and adjust the tempo on the fly.
USB connectivity
It allows for easy recording and programming options, as well as firmware updates. The Line 6 POD HD500X is a popular choice with USB connectivity, allowing for direct recording via USB or connecting to a computer for access to amp and effect modeling software. Another option is the TC Electronic Ditto Looper, a compact loop pedal with a USB port for importing and exporting loops directly from your computer. For those looking for a more versatile option, the BOSS GT-1000 boasts not only USB audio/MIDI connectivity but also provides amp modeling, multi-effects, and even a customizable control layout to suit individual playing preferences. USB connectivity ultimately enhances the versatility and usability of guitar pedals, making it an important factor to consider when making a decision.
Price
There are pedals available across a wide range of price points, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. In the lower price range, the Behringer Vintage Delay and Donner Alpha Cruncher are excellent choices. The Behringer Vintage Delay offers a delay effect with up to 300ms of delay time and controls for repeat, time, and intensity. On the other hand, the Donner Alpha Cruncher is a versatile multi-effect pedal, featuring three different types of effects including distortion, chorus, and delay. In the mid-range segment, the BOSS DS-1 Distortion is a popular choice, providing a classic distortion sound with tone control and distortion level adjustment. Finally, in the higher price range, the Strymon Timeline stands out, offering a range of delay effects including digital, dual, pattern, reverse, and more along with extensive control options for delay time, repeats, mix, and modulation. Remember that with price, it's important to prioritize your needs and budget to select the pedal that best suits your requirements.
Variety of brands
Each brand has its own distinct characteristics, pros, and cons. For example, Boss is renowned for its rugged build quality and reliable nature, making it a popular choice for gigging musicians. Their pedals often feature intuitive controls and enhanced durability, ensuring they can withstand heavy use. Additionally, Strymon has gained a reputation for its high-quality digital effects and innovative designs. The brand is known for its attention to detail and the ability to replicate classic analog tones with their top-of-the-line digital technology. On the other hand, Digitech has carved a niche in the market by offering a wide range of affordable pedals without sacrificing quality. They provide numerous options for beginners or budget-conscious musicians who still seek versatile effects without breaking the bank. Other notable brands include MXR, known for their classic analog effects, and Eventide, renowned for their studio-grade digital effects processors. Ultimately, the choice of brand depends on personal preferences, preferred playing style, and budget constraints.