Best electric guitar effect pedals for 2022

Every guitarist wants to achieve perfection and get that one sound that will caress the ear. In order for the search to be successful, you must become the proud owner of an effects pedal. What you need to pay attention to when choosing it, we will try to decide in this article.

Before studying the ratings of the best products, you first need to understand for yourself what the design is, what varieties there are, and their functionality. The best manufacturers regularly offer new electronic devices and circuits, thanks to which the signal from the guitar is transformed beyond recognition, revealing the limitless possibilities of this unique musical instrument.

The traditional type of devices is a small metal box, which is located near the guitarist's legs. It is called a “pedal” because the performer switches the action using his legs, since he holds a musical instrument in his hands.Equipped with toggle switches that allow you to adjust the intensity of the action used.

Along with pedals, the best manufacturers of musical instruments offer guitar processors that allow you to combine many phenomena at the same time.

Types of popular models

Digital guitar transformations appeared in the early eighties. Their production was based on an analog circuit. Simply put, a clean signal was fed to the amplifier. In digital analogues, due to the constructions, the signal is converted into a digital bit stream and only then is changed into analog. And today there is no consensus on which one is better to buy.Digital, according to buyers, are considered to be of higher quality.

What underlies the selection criteria, besides the popularity of the models? Idea and style! Analog devices are ready to surprise with a clear, dense sound. But even the most expensive digital designs exhibit sonic impact artifacts. However, the following unconditional advantages cannot be discounted:

• versatility of performance;
• maximum precision.

This device is the carrier of a large number of actions with a wide range.

How to choose

You should not purchase products at the same time as a guitar for training. A beginner is not able to immediately realize the need for such a device and may lose interest in expensive equipment, throwing it into the attic until better times. To realize the need for pedaling, you first need to gain experience, and this will take a lot of time of intensive practice.

As soon as a beginner gains experience and skills, decides on an individual style of play, the time will come to purchase such a product. You can study the description, reviews, advice from experienced people regarding the popularity of products for a long time, but there are no universal recommendations. The main point - there should be a recording for listening, so that it would be possible to analyze your own mistakes, so as not to make them in the future.

If you are planning to purchase several sets, then you should pay attention to the pedalboard. This is a specially designed device designed to mount all equipment in a certain sequence and connect them to each other using wires. It helps to combine actions in the desired sequence.Thanks to him, the storage and transportation of equipment occurs without any problems.

What are electric guitar effect pedals?

The variety of goods is impressive. It varies in price, quality, brands, appearance, case design, additional features, material, and characteristics. Among the huge number of proposals, there are unconditional leaders who are preferred.

wah-wah

It differs from the rest in that when pressed, a “triple sound” appears. It loses strength as soon as the force of pressing the foot on the structure decreases. This type is used if there is a need to reproduce expressive and dynamic playback. Such a unique transformation was used by the master of performance - Jimi Hendrix.

All products presented on the equipment market have a special, unique sound, which sometimes makes it problematic to make the only right decision. In order not to be disappointed in the purchase and to use the full potential of products, you need to pay special attention to the presence of an element that allows you to configure playback settings.

Almost all designs, including inexpensive ones, have an attack time and cycle depth regulator. Joe Satriani, for example, uses a VOX JS-WH BIG BAD WAH PEDAL that averages $286.

distortion

Among her admirers, she is considered fatal. When used, the signal is clipped due to a sharp limitation of the amplitude. This method is mainly used in the performance of metal and rock. It is also used for bass guitar, as the standard “distorters” present there spoil the sound a little, lowering the frequency range.The BOSS DS-1X DISTORTION belonging to this type is considered the leader among its fellows. It can be purchased for an average of $ 218, but it's worth it.

overdrive

This design attenuates the level of the audio signal in amplitude, and smoothness is obtained due to the rounded cutting of the upper turns of the sinusoid. This makes it possible to achieve dynamic playback by amplifying string strikes. This type includes BOSS OS-2, the average price of which is $140.

Booster

Thanks to him, a specific reproduction occurs. It quickly transforms the sound, therefore it is used as a signal amplifier. Its use allows you to increase the overload already at the initial stage of amplification. This feature will come in handy for musicians who want to distort signals at low volumes. This construction will be quite effective in the process of adding to the solo part. A booster is essential for circuitry when the musician is using more than four effects and a lot of cables. Topping the list of quality products is the BLACKSTAR HT-BOOST, which can be purchased for $240.

Fuzz

The basis of the action is the non-linear transformation of sound through transistors. They completely exclude the envelope signal, thanks to which we hear an analogue of the "organ" sound. Mainly used in solo parts. A prime example is Jimi Hendrix's performance of "The Star Spangled Banner". The classic fuzz pedal is the DUNLOP M173 MXR CLASSIC 108 FUZZ for $170.

Which company is better to buy equipment depends on the personal preferences of the person. Brand models have undeniable advantages. Quality factor and high quality, basically, depends on how much the product costs.It can be ordered online in an online store or visit a specialized outlet where you can buy the product you like.

Best electric guitar effect pedals for 2022

ZOOM MS-50G

Zoom is the leader in the music equipment market, delighting its fans with unique innovations. Its main feature is multi-effectivity (more than 50). Can simultaneously play up to 6 of their variations. Controlled by three buttons. The display shows the installed options. The USB port allows you to change the firmware.

The average cost is 9600 rubles.

• high emulation;
• powered by USB, AA batteries in the amount of 2 pieces or a power adapter;
• the product is constantly updated;
• energy consumption can be controlled;
• small sizes.

• difficult for beginners;
• USB causes third party noises.

ELECTRO-HARMONIX NANO LOOPER 360

The device of an American manufacturer makes it possible to transform an electric guitar into an electric piano. A compact looper that allows you to create a layered backing to lift the mood of your audience. You can adjust the volume level of the recorded fragments. There are 11 cells for recording. The weight of the device is 200g. The device comes with a power adapter and an instruction manual.

The average cost is 9499 rubles.

• Compact;
• Allows you to improvise;
• 11 memory cells;
• There is overdub.

• With a long press of undo-redo, there is some delay;

ELECTRO-HARMONIX KEY9

The American firm produces high-quality goods.The power of the synthesizer is high, it has flexible settings with eight presets. Sounds are processed at lightning speed.

Cost - 27500 rubles.

• the body is made of durable metal;
• equipped with power supply unit;
• light weight;
• there is an effects loop;
• compact dimensions;
• electric piano emulator;
• the ability to customize presets for individual vision.

• Not everyone can afford to buy a product at this price.

MERIS ENZO

A unique pedal-shaped synthesizer produced by an American company. Its capabilities delight the most meticulous fans. It has a powerful double multivoice oscillator, which has no analogues. In fact, these are two separate synthesizers, equipped in one golden-colored case. It is equipped with a huge number of adjustments and additional functions. Designed for rap.

The average cost is 23990 rubles.

• amazing power;
• dense cool sound;
• there is an equalization function;
• the presence of a premium JFET input section;
• high-strength metal case;
• convenient dimensions;
• manual assembly.

• significant price, but worth it;
• serious management.

BOSS KATANA

A unique model that is able to equip the base platform with additional sounds, functionality and effects. In it, the number of built-in effect groups has reached five, which makes it possible to quickly process signals in real time. There is advanced functionality: a multi-effects processor, an input for connecting modeling devices, an updated software editor, and so on. Amplifier for 50 watts, the number of channels - 5, the same number of sections.Eight preset memories let you save your effects and amp settings.

The average price is 18990 rubles.

• produces amplified sound;
• the ability to adjust the degree of amplification;
• there is an equalizer;
• it is possible to make a vibrato;
• you can play with reduced sound without losing quality.

• is very expensive.

ISP DECI-MATE MICRO G DECIMATOR

The product is produced under the ISP Technologies brand, the manufacturer is an American company. By appointment:

1. For bass guitar.
2. For rock.
3. For metal.
4. For electric guitar.

Power supply - 9 W, analog model, no expression output, preset switching is not provided.

Price - 17999 rubles.

• excellent functionality;
• smooth noise cutting thanks to the new Decimator X technology;
• light weight;
• convenient sizes.

• no significant ones were found.

PIGTRONIX REM KEYMASTER, REAMP EFFECTS MIXER

Model with balanced and unbalanced XLR and TRS input and output connectors, two effects loops, sequential modes. Crossfade function is provided, the power supply is included in the package. It opens up new horizons of sound. Smooth transition between effects is possible thanks to the standard expression pedal. There is the possibility of mixing effects. At the same time, the musician can smoothly switch effects to get different sound variations.

The average price is 17570 rubles.

• easy to use;
• it is possible to achieve a unique sound;
• portable;
• graceful design;
• ideal for vocalists.

• significant cost.

NUX CHERUB TAPE-CORE-DELUXE

The model allows you to enjoy compressed film echo and mesmerizing crystal clear sound. It has three playback heads, which are able to provide seven different combinations of delay sounds. The unique Nux TS / AS technology allows you to get modulation, attenuation, natural sound. Main characteristics:

• input resistance - 1 Mohm;
• output resistance - 1 kOhm;
• nominal input level – -20 dBu;
• residual noise level - -93 dBc (min.).

The cost is 4390 rubles.

• compact;
• convenient;
• professional;
• able to inspire new achievements;
• amazing sound;
• light weight;
• affordable price.

• not identified.

YERASOV SCS-RS-10 DISTORTION

Budget devices with distortion effect. The knobs can be set in such a way as to get a melodious and easy overdrive, slightly loaded or clean sound, amazing crunch. The tone block allows you to adjust the frequency spectrum, starting with low frequencies and moving on to distortion. The assembly was carried out on a modern basis: high-quality resistors, a low-noise microcircuit, electrolytic capacitors. To get a real "TRUE BYPASS", the model is equipped with a high quality ALPHA footswitch.

The cost is 4450 rubles.

• light weight;
• compact dimensions;
• maximum current consumption - 22mA;
• power supply both adapter and battery.

• significant ones are missing.

JOYO R-08 CAB BOX CABINET SPEAKER SIMULATOR AND IP LOAD

A widely demanded model with a convenient and simple interface, a complete configuration that allows you to simplify complex menu items on computers, amplifiers, tablets.Equipped with four tube wattages, 20 cabinet models, 128 memory slots. Works with 11 classic microphone models, supports 16/24/32 bit IR files, sample rate is 44.1 kHz. There is LED lighting.

Price - 14080 rubles.

• multifunctional;
• convenient;
• light weight;
• small sizes.

• significant cost.

BEHRINGER EQ700 GRAPHIC EQUALIZER

If you review graphic equalizers, you should pay special attention to this device. A multi-band effects pedal from a Chinese manufacturer, very useful, has seven bands from 100 Hz to 6.4 kHz with 15 dB cut/boost, used for feedback suppression and sound transformation. The device works silently thanks to the first-class electronic switch. The LED indicator shows the battery charge and allows you to visually control the operation of the effect.

Price - 2265 rubles.

• silent;
• light weight;
• small dimensions;
• wide frequency range;
• affordable price.

• The package does not include AC adapter and batteries.

DUNLOP M132 MXR SUPER COMP

The device is in great demand among both professionals and beginners. Eminent stars gather millions of admirers for their concerts. The Super Comp is released to reach new heights in the game. The updated attack control maintains the dynamics of playing.

Price - 8199 rubles.

• upscale American manufacturer;
• good design;
• lack of gaps and backlashes;
• manufacturing materials are pleasant to the touch;
• unique sound;
• excellent value for money.

• significant have not been established.

DIGITECH MOSAIC

The device makes it possible to reproduce the signal of a twelve-string instrument. Its use allows you to give a new sound not only to individual notes, but also to whole chords. Equipped with two controllers, thanks to which the modulation level of the signal is adjusted to give it a bright effect.

The cost is 11630 rubles.

• strong metal case;
• high quality material for manufacturing;
• equipped with a non-slip sole to minimize movement on the surface;
• there is an LED indication;
• supplied with power adapter.

• used for solo play;
• unable to model an acoustic guitar;
• significant cost.

NUX MOD FORCE

A versatile item with fourteen effect models. You can use two of them at the same time. Allows you to create 9 profiles with different settings, switch to manual mode.

The average price is 3000 rubles.

• the stereo signal is processed with maximum precision;
• there is a parallel and serial signal processing by the processor;
• top-level graphical interface;
• display with convenient parameters;
• Kill Dry helps to eliminate distortion caused by parallel connection.

• are completely absent.

TC ELECTRONIC FANGS METAL DISTORTION

Perfect for those who decide to try themselves as an electric guitarist. The model is equipped with ultra-thin tones with the possibility of their significant amplification. Management is so simple that no difficulties should arise.You don't need any special knowledge to use it. The presence of a high-strength metal case makes it possible to withstand significant loads. It can be transported both in a backpack and in a pedalboard.

The cost is 4399 rubles.

• serious Danish manufacturer;
• the switch has three positions;
• hard response;
• mids are universally controlled;
• True Bypass allows you to perceive the signal holistically.

• no significant ones were found.

ARBITER FUZZ FACE

It differs from its counterparts in a round body. The pedal is the owner of the easiest to repeat electronic circuit that can only be. But the sound is just unique. There are two options for the release of the original product: with German transistors and silicon transistors BC108. The German models are thick and warm, while the silicon ones are punchy and bright. It is very popular among rock and roll fans.

The cost is 11499 rubles.

• comfortable;
• practical;
• multifunctional;
• with excellent sound;
• high quality.

• significant have not been identified.

DUNLOP CRY BABY

For the first time the model saw the light in 1966 and immediately received universal recognition. Early wah-wahs were enjoyed by many guitarists, including Jimi Hendrix. Over a long period of time, the device has been modernized, improving reliability and assembly, while maintaining a unique sound quality. Included in the top ten best-selling effect pedals. Very comfortable to drive, even with big feet. The hardness regulator will allow you to properly adjust the hardness of the stroke.Thanks to the mode switch, you can adjust the sound, fat low-frequency sweep, or classic sound. The device consumes 0.9 mA, weighs 435 g, compact.

The cost is 8199 rubles.

• real American quality;
• suitable for rock and electric guitar;
• excellent sound;
• light weight;
• convenient to transport;
• long operational period.

• significant ones are missing.

BEHRINGER DR600

The advantage of this device is that it is practically not inferior to expensive processors, which are often used in studios. The pedal can simulate the sound of an enclosed space by multiplying the echoes that bounce off the surface. After that, the sound slowly subsides, as if soaking into the walls, floor and ceiling, dissolving in the streams of clean air. The model is especially popular among professionals in various fields. The equipment is configured quickly and efficiently due to the presence of convenient handles - regulators.

The average cost of goods is 2270 rubles.

• silent switching on and off is due to the presence of a first-class electronic switch;
• LED indicator helps to check the battery charge and pedal settings;
• reliable design;
• high-quality components were used in the manufacture;
• there are 24-bit stereo reverb effects;
• compact;
• long service life.

• not all professionals like the sound quality;
• the body is made of plastic, although of decent quality;
• Batteries guarantee only three hours of continuous operation.

PROCO RAT

A simple pedal equipped with an elementary circuit based on the LM308 operational amplifier. Distortion is obtained due to the diode limiter. Very suitable for those who like to play jazz, blues or rock. Universal fixture, which is mainly used for basic overload. If you set the settings correctly, the guitar will sound hundreds of shades. The pedal consists of:

• steel patented case;
• 100% analog circuit;
• on/off indicator;
• textolite plate;
• convenient controller.

The cost is 3600 rubles.

• high-strength jacks and buttons;
• excellent wear resistance;
• universality;
• convenient to use.

• missing.

DIGITECH WHAMMY

A fairly recognizable model first appeared in 1989. Now considered a classic, it is a revolutionary metal box equipped with a simple pitch switch, built-in expression pedal. It sounds a little strange and esoteric. Pitch shifters are considered octavers, thanks to which during the game it is possible to shift the pitch and harmony. Signal processing occurs through presets, allowing you to control the pedal in parallel.

The cost is 11390 rubles.

• multifunctionality;
• visual appeal;
• high quality case;
• comfortable pedal;
• amazing sound.

• significant ones are missing.

MXR DYNA COMP

Your guitar will sound different when you use this bright red compressor. The texture and color tone of the sound will change. The first version, released in 1972, was a studio version, after which they switched to the manufacture of floor models.Two simple controls, "sensitivity" and "output," have made guitarists such as David Gilmour and Bonnie Wright famous. The first devices produced a hiss when both knobs were rotated. But that only added to their charm. If you play a chord on all strings, you can feel a completely different color that appears on top of the attack and decay.

The average price is 7399 rubles.

• high quality;
• the manufacturer gives a guarantee;
• light weight;
• compact dimensions;
• easy setup;
• impenetrable box;
• multifunctionality: for rock, funk, electric guitar;

• compression is not always present.

ELECTRO-HARMONIX ELECTRIC MISTRESS

Its developer is David Cockerell. The product appeared on the shelves in 1976 and looked like a battery-powered pedal. Over a long period, the flanger has changed significantly in terms of design. The printed circuit board and the electronic circuit have undergone the most changes. From the original version, only a green inscription remained on the front side of the device panel. Since 1977, the model has been produced with an operating mode switch. The first models included chorus and spatial sounding together.

Today it is an analog flanger with a unique sound. Despite the small number of mode switches (and there are only three of them), the device can reproduce sound in a fairly wide range. The Filter Matrix mode allows you to manually adjust the tonal color. In this case, you can set any tone: from modern electronic to classic.

The analog device of the American manufacturer of manual assembly weighs 1 kg, is completed with a power supply, a pedal, a box and instructions. Switching presets, tap tempo, expression output are absent. The main purpose is for electric guitar.

The average price is 12999 rubles.

• practical;
• comfortable;
• good quality;
• high service life;
• good value for money.

• significant are not identified.

The right effect pedal allows you to achieve a unique sound of the instrument with different styles of electric guitar playing.