The world of guitar pedals and effects pedals for acoustic guitar and electric guitar is vast and ever-evolving, with new and innovative effects being introduced every year.
Whether you’re a seasoned guitar player or just starting out, finding the right combination of effects pedals for your electric guitar or acoustic guitar can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start.
In this blog post, we’ll be exploring some of the best guitar pedals available today, including effects pedals for both acoustic guitar and electric guitar. From classic distortion and overdrive pedals to more experimental and ambient effects, we’ll be diving into the world of guitar pedals to help you find the perfect sound for your playing style.
So, whether you’re looking to add some extra crunch to your electric guitar riffs or want to experiment with new sounds on your acoustic guitar, read on to discover some of the best guitar pedals and best effects pedals for guitar on the market today.
Best Guitar Pedals 2024 (Effects Pedals for Acoustic, Electric)
- Ibanez Tube Screamer TS9 Overdrive Effects Pedal
- Boss DD-8 Digital Delay Guitar Pedal
- Strymon Timeline Delay Pedal
- Boss RV-6 Reverb Pedal
- Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail Reverb Pedal
- Dunlop Cry Baby Wah Pedal
- MXR M234 Analog Chorus Pedal
- Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Fuzz Pedal
- MXR Phase 90 Phaser Pedal
- Boss OC-3 Octave Pedal
- TC Electronic Flashback 2 Delay Pedal
- Strymon BigSky Reverb Pedal
- Wampler Tumnus V2 Overdrive & Boost Guitar Effects Pedal
- EarthQuaker Devices Hoof Fuzz Pedal
- Eventide H9 Max Multi-Effects Pedal
1. Ibanez Tube Screamer TS9 Overdrive Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The Ibanez Tube Screamer TS9 is a classic overdrive pedal that has been used by guitar players for decades. This guitar pedal/effects pedal is known for its warm and transparent tone, which allows your guitar’s natural sound to shine through. The TS9 features a simple three-knob design, with controls for Level, Tone, and Drive. It’s powered by a 9-volt battery or an external power supply, and features true bypass switching to preserve your tone when the pedal is disengaged.
Specifications:
- Controls: Level, Tone, Drive
- Input Impedance: 500k ohms
- Output Impedance: 10k ohms
- Power Supply: 9V battery or external power supply
- True bypass switching
Pros:
- Classic overdrive tone
- Simple three-knob design
- True bypass switching preserves your tone
Cons:
- Limited tonal options compared to more complex pedals
- Can sound too warm and compressed for some playing styles
2. Boss DD-8 Digital Delay Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The Boss DD-8 Digital Delay Pedal is a versatile and compact delay pedal that offers a range of delay options. This guitar pedal (or effects pedal) features four delay modes (including a modulated delay and a reverse delay), as well as a Hold mode that allows you to sample and loop your playing. The DD-8 also features tap tempo control, stereo input/output, and an expression pedal input for real-time control over the delay time.
Specifications:
- Modes: 4 delay modes (Digital, Analog, Modulation, Reverse), Hold mode
- Controls: Delay Time, Feedback, Effect Level, Mode
- Input Impedance: 1 M ohms
- Output Impedance: 1 k ohms
- Power Supply: 9V battery or external power supply
- Stereo input/output, Expression pedal input
Pros:
- Versatile delay options
- Tap tempo control
- Hold mode for sampling and looping
Cons:
- Not as many features as some higher-end delay pedals
- Some users report that the tap tempo function can be finicky
3. Strymon Timeline Delay Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The Strymon Timeline Delay Pedal is a high-end delay pedal that offers a range of advanced features and a pristine, studio-quality sound. It features 12 delay machines, including digital, tape, and analog delay options, as well as a looper function that allows you to record and play back loops. The Timeline guitar effects pedal also offers tap tempo control, MIDI connectivity, and an expression pedal input for real-time control over various parameters.
Specifications:
- Modes: 12 delay machines
- Controls: Time, Repeats, Mix, Filter, Grit, Speed, Depth, Modulation, Shape
- Input Impedance: 1 M ohms
- Output Impedance: 100 ohms
- Power Supply: 9V DC
- MIDI connectivity, Expression pedal input
Pros:
- Wide range of delay options
- Pristine, studio-quality sound
- Advanced features like MIDI and expression pedal control
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other delay pedals
- May have more features than some users need
4. Boss RV-6 Reverb Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The Boss RV-6 Reverb Pedal is a compact and versatile reverb pedal that offers a range of high-quality reverb effects. It features eight reverb modes, including Plate, Spring, and Hall, as well as a Shimmer mode that adds a harmonized octave to your reverb sound. The RV-6 also features stereo input/output and a modulation section that allows you to add chorusing or flanging to your reverb sound.
Specifications:
- Modes: 8 reverb modes
- Controls: Time, Tone, Level, Mode, Mod Depth, Mod Rate
- Input Impedance: 1 M ohms
- Output Impedance: 1 k ohms
- Power Supply: 9V battery or external power supply
- Stereo input/output, Modulation section
Pros:
- Versatile reverb options
- Compact size
- Stereo input/output
Cons:
- Some users may prefer more complex reverb pedals
- Some modes may be too subtle for some players
5. Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail Reverb Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail Reverb Pedal is a classic and affordable reverb pedal that offers a range of high-quality reverb effects. It features three reverb modes (Spring, Hall, and Flerb), as well as a compact design that makes it easy to fit on your pedalboard. The Holy Grail also features true bypass switching and a rugged die-cast chassis.
Specifications:
- Modes: 3 reverb modes
- Controls: Reverb, Blend, Tone
- Input Impedance: 2 M ohms
- Output Impedance: 2 k ohms
- Power Supply: 9V battery or external power supply
- True bypass switching
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Compact design
- High-quality reverb sounds
Cons:
- Limited tonal options compared to more complex pedals
- Some users may prefer more features and controls
6. Dunlop Cry Baby Wah Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The Dunlop Cry Baby Wah Pedal is a classic and iconic wah pedal that has been used by guitar players for decades. It features a simple and sturdy design, with a foot pedal that allows you to sweep through the wah effect. The Cry Baby also features a Q control that allows you to adjust the intensity of the effect, as well as a boost switch that adds up to 15 dB of gain to your sound.
Specifications:
- Controls: Foot pedal, Q control, Boost switch
- Input Impedance: 1 M ohms
- Output Impedance: 10 k ohms
- Power Supply: 9V battery or external power supply
Pros:
- Classic and iconic sound
- Simple and sturdy design
- Boost switch adds gain to your sound
Cons:
- Limited tonal options compared to more complex pedals
- Some users may find the wah effect too pronounced
7. MXR M234 Analog Chorus Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The MXR M234 Analog Chorus Pedal is a classic and versatile chorus pedal that offers a range of warm and lush chorus tones. It features a simple and intuitive design, with controls for Rate, Depth, and Level, as well as a switch for selecting between a traditional chorus sound and a vibrato sound. The M234 also features true bypass switching and a rugged housing that makes it ideal for gigging.
Specifications:
- Controls: Rate, Depth, Level, Mode switch
- Input Impedance: 1 M ohms
- Output Impedance: 1 k ohms
- Power Supply: 9V battery or external power supply
- True bypass switching
Pros:
- Warm and lush chorus tones
- Simple and intuitive design
- Durable construction
Cons:
- May not offer as many tonal options as some higher-end chorus pedals
- Some users may prefer more control over the chorus effect
8. Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Fuzz Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Fuzz Pedal is a classic and iconic fuzz pedal that has been used by guitar players for decades. It’s known for its thick and saturated fuzz tone, which can add a powerful and aggressive edge to your sound. The Big Muff features a simple and intuitive design, with controls for Volume, Tone, and Sustain, as well as a switch for selecting between a standard mode and a bass boost mode.
Specifications:
- Controls: Volume, Tone, Sustain, Mode switch
- Input Impedance: 130 k ohms
- Output Impedance: 25 k ohms
- Power Supply: 9V battery or external power supply
Pros:
- Classic and iconic fuzz tone
- Simple and intuitive design
- Bass boost mode for added low-end punch
Cons:
- May not offer as many tonal options as some higher-end fuzz pedals
- Some users may prefer a more subtle or nuanced fuzz sound
9. MXR Phase 90 Phaser Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The MXR Phase 90 Phaser Pedal is a classic and versatile phaser pedal that offers a range of swirling and immersive phase tones. It features a simple and intuitive design, with a single knob for controlling the speed of the phasing effect. The Phase 90 also features true bypass switching and a rugged housing that makes it ideal for gigging.
Specifications:
- Controls: Speed
- Input Impedance: 1 M ohms
- Output Impedance: 10 k ohms
- Power Supply: 9V battery or external power supply
- True bypass switching
Pros:
- Classic and versatile phaser tones
- Simple and intuitive design
- Durable construction
Cons:
- May not offer as many tonal options as some higher-end phaser pedals
- Some users may prefer more control over the phasing effect
10. Boss OC-3 Octave Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The Boss OC-3 Octave Pedal is a versatile octave pedal that allows you to add one or two octaves above or below your original signal. It features a simple and intuitive design, with controls for the level of the octave effect, as well as a mode switch for selecting between polyphonic and monophonic tracking. The OC-3 also features true bypass switching and a compact design that makes it easy to fit on your pedalboard.
Specifications:
- Controls: Level, Mode Switch
- Input Impedance: 1 M ohms
- Output Impedance: 1 k ohms
- Power Supply: 9V battery or external power supply
- True bypass switching
Pros:
- Versatile octave options
- Simple and intuitive design
- Polyphonic tracking mode for chords and complex playing
Cons:
- May not offer as many tonal options as some higher-end octave pedals
- Some users may prefer more control over the octave effect
11. TC Electronic Flashback 2 Delay Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The TC Electronic Flashback 2 Delay Pedal is a versatile and feature-packed delay pedal that offers a range of high-quality delay options. It features 11 delay types, including tape, analog, and digital delays, as well as a looper function that allows you to record and play back loops. The Flashback 2 also offers TonePrint technology, which allows you to download and customize presets from a range of artists and musicians.
Specifications:
- Modes: 11 delay types
- Controls: Delay Time, Feedback, Effect Level, Mode, TonePrint, Subdivision
- Input Impedance: 1 M ohms
- Output Impedance: 100 ohms
- Power Supply: 9V DC
- TonePrint technology, Looper function
Pros:
- Wide range of delay options
- TonePrint technology allows for customization
- Looper function for recording and playing back loops
Cons:
- May have more features than some users need
- Some users may prefer simpler delay pedals
12. Strymon BigSky Reverb Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The Strymon BigSky Reverb Pedal is a high-end reverb pedal that offers a range of advanced features and a pristine, studio-quality sound. It features 12 reverb machines, including plate, spring, and shimmer reverb options, as well as a range of controls and parameters that allow for extensive customization. The BigSky also offers stereo input/output, MIDI connectivity, and an expression pedal input for real-time control over various parameters.
Specifications:
- Modes: 12 reverb machines
- Controls: Time, Decay, Pre-Delay, Mix, Low, Mid, High, Mod, Type
- Input Impedance: 1 M ohms
- Output Impedance: 100 ohms
- Power Supply: 9V DC
- MIDI connectivity, Expression pedal input
Pros:
- Pristine, studio-quality reverb sounds
- Advanced features like MIDI and expression pedal control
- Extensive customization options
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other reverb pedals
- May have more features than some users need
13. Wampler Tumnus V2 Overdrive & Boost Guitar Effects Pedal
The Wampler Tumnus V2 Overdrive & Boost Guitar Effects Pedal is a versatile and highly-regarded overdrive and boost pedal that offers a range of warm and dynamic tones. It features a simple and intuitive design, with controls for Gain, Level, and Tone, as well as a switch for selecting between a standard overdrive mode and a hot mode with increased gain. The Tumnus V2 also features true bypass switching and a compact and rugged design that makes it easy to fit on your pedalboard.
Specifications:
- Controls: Gain, Level, Tone, Mode switch
- Input Impedance: 1 M ohms
- Output Impedance: 1 k ohms
- Power Supply: 9V battery or external power supply
- True bypass switching
Pros:
- Warm and dynamic overdrive and boost tones
- Simple and intuitive design
- Compact and rugged construction
Cons:
- May not offer as much gain as some higher-gain overdrive pedals
- Some users may prefer more control over the overdrive and boost sounds
14. Eventide H9 Harmonizer Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The Eventide H9 Harmonizer Pedal is a high-end and feature-packed multi-effects pedal that offers a range of advanced effects and a pristine, studio-quality sound. It features over 50 effects algorithms, including reverb, delay, modulation, and pitch-shifting effects, as well as a range of controls and parameters that allow for extensive customization. The H9 also offers stereo input/output, MIDI connectivity, and an iOS app for remote control and preset management.
Specifications:
- Modes: Over 50 effects algorithms
- Controls: Varies by algorithm
- Input Impedance: 600 ohms
- Output Impedance: 470 ohms
- Power Supply: 9V DC
- Stereo input/output, MIDI connectivity, iOS app
Pros:
- Wide range of advanced effects options
- Pristine, studio-quality sound
- Advanced features like MIDI and iOS app control
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other multi-effects pedals
- May have more features than some users need
15. Line 6 Helix Multi-Effects Pedal (Guitar Effects Pedal)
The Line 6 Helix Multi-Effects Pedal is a high-end and feature-packed multi-effects pedal that offers a range of advanced effects and a pristine, studio-quality sound. It features over 300 effects and models, including amps, cabs, and effects from the Helix, M-Series, and legacy Line 6 products, as well as a range of controls and parameters that allow for extensive customization. The Helix also offers stereo input/output, MIDI connectivity, and a large color LCD screen for easy navigation.
Specifications:
- Modes: Over 300 effects and models
- Controls: Varies by effect/model
- Input Impedance: 1 M ohms
- Output Impedance: 1 k ohms
- Power Supply: 9V DC
- Stereo input/output, MIDI connectivity, color LCD screen
Pros:
- Wide range of advanced effects options
- Pristine, studio-quality sound
- Advanced features like MIDI connectivity and a color LCD screen
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other multi-effects pedals
- May have more features than some users need
Best Guitar Pedals (Effects Pedals for Acoustic, Electric) FAQ
Which effect pedal is the best?
The best effect pedal is subjective and depends on the player’s preferences and needs. However, popular choices include overdrive, delay, and reverb pedals.
What is the best multi effect for guitar?
The best multi effect for guitar varies depending on the player’s preferences and budget. Popular options include the Line 6 Helix, Boss GT-1000, and Fractal Audio Axe-Fx.
What is the single most important guitar pedal?
The single most important guitar pedal is subjective and depends on the player’s playing style and genre. However, many guitarists would argue that a good overdrive or distortion pedal is essential.
What effect pedals did the Beatles use?
The Beatles used a range of effect pedals throughout their career, including a Fuzz Face, Vox Wah, and Univibe.
What effects pedals should every bass player have?
Essential effect pedals for bass players include a compressor, overdrive or distortion pedal, and octave pedal.
What is the world’s most expensive effects pedal?
As of 2023, the world’s most expensive effects pedal is the Klon Centaur, which can sell for over $10,000 on the used market.
What is the proper effects pedal order?
A common effects pedal order is tuner, filter, compression, overdrive/distortion, modulation, delay, and reverb.
What pedal should every guitarist have?
Every guitarist should have a good overdrive or distortion pedal and a tuner pedal.
What are the best guitar pedals?
Some of the best guitar pedals include the Boss DS-1 Distortion, Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Fuzz, MXR Phase 90 Phaser, and TC Electronic Flashback 2 Delay.
What 3 guitar pedals do I need?
The three guitar pedals you need depend on your playing style, but many players recommend a good overdrive or distortion pedal, a tuner pedal, and a delay pedal.
What pedal does Eric Clapton use?
Eric Clapton has used various pedals, including the Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face, Colorsound Tone Bender, and Vox wah pedal.
What pedal did Van Halen use?
Eddie Van Halen used the MXR Phase 90 Phaser, MXR Distortion+, Boss DS-1 Distortion, and Ibanez Tube Screamer.
What pedal did Metallica use?
Metallica used the Electro-Harmonix Micro POG octave pedal, MXR Phase 90 Phaser, and Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor.
What pedal did Kurt Cobain use?
Kurt Cobain famously used the Electro-Harmonix Small Clone chorus pedal, among other pedals.
Are expensive guitar pedals worth it?
Expensive guitar pedals can offer unique and high-quality sounds, but it ultimately depends on the player’s preferences and budget.
What is the most coveted guitar pedal?
The most coveted guitar pedal is subjective and depends on the player’s preferences. However, the Klon Centaur and Dumble Overdrive Special are highly sought after.
What pedals did Jimi Hendrix use?
Jimi Hendrix used various pedals, including the Arbiter Fuzz Face, Vox wah, and Univibe.
How do I choose the right pedal?
To choose the right pedal, consider your playing style, genre, and desired sound. Research different pedals and read reviews to find the best fit for you.
What pedals should a beginner have?
Beginner guitarists should have a tuner pedal, overdrive or distortion pedal, and delay or reverb pedal.
What type of pedal did AC/DC use?
AC/DC used a range of effect pedals, including the Marshall Guv’nor and Ibanez Tube Screamer.
What pedal did Keith Richards use?
Keith Richards famously used a Maestro Fuzz-Tone, among other pedals.
What pedal did Jimmy Page use?
Jimmy Page used a range of pedals, including the Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face, MXR Phase 90 Phaser, and Echoplex delay.
What pedal was used on “Time” by Pink Floyd?
David Gilmour used a Binson Echorec delay on the iconic Pink Floyd song “Time.”
Should I use overdrive or distortion?
Whether to use overdrive or distortion depends on your desired sound. Overdrive pedals provide a subtle, natural breakup, while distortion pedals provide a heavier, more aggressive sound.
What pedal does Slipknot use?
Slipknot’s Jim Root uses various pedals, including the Boss MT-2 Metal Zone, Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor, and MXR Smart Gate.
What is the most guitar pedals used at once?
The most guitar pedals used at once is subjective and varies by player, but some players use up to 20 or more pedals at once.
What guitar pedal to start with?
Beginners should start with a tuner pedal and an overdrive or distortion pedal to enhance their tone.
Does the order of guitar pedals matter?
Yes, the order of guitar pedals matters, as certain pedals can affect the sound of other pedals when placed before or after them.
Did Led Zeppelin use guitar pedals?
Led Zeppelin used various pedals throughout their career, including the Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face and Electro-Harmonix Big Muff.
What is the most commonly used pedal?
The most commonly used pedal is subjective and varies by genre, but many guitarists use overdrive or distortion pedals.
What pedal does John Mayer use?
John Mayer uses various pedals, including the Klon Centaur overdrive and the Strymon Timeline delay.
What pedal improves guitar tone?
A good overdrive or distortion pedal can improve guitar tone by adding warmth and harmonics to the sound.
What pedal is best to sound like Jimi Hendrix?
To sound like Jimi Hendrix, players should consider using a Fuzz Face, Vox wah, and Uni-Vibe.
What pedals to use for solos?
Pedals commonly used for solos include delay, reverb, and overdrive/distortion pedals to enhance the sound and sustain of notes.
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