The 5 Best Multi Effects Pedals of 2022
Multi Effects Pedal – Buying Guide, Opinions and Analysis
A multi-effects pedal is enjoyed and appreciated by beginners and music professionals alike. If you want to get a product that makes you enjoy your knowledge and skills to play different musical instruments, you should select a model that has the features that suit your level and your needs. After an exhaustive review of brands, models, customer comments, functions and features, we can point out those pedals that will surely be of great use to you. First of all, we find the Boss GT-1, a small and light equipment that you can take anywhere to create sounds in an intuitive way. In addition, it offers an autonomy of 7 hours with 4 AA batteries for greater practicality. Second, but not least, we can mention the Vox STOMPLAB1G, with a sophisticated and compact metal body and a total of 120 programs.
Buying Guide – What is the best multi-effects pedal on the market?
Human beings have played music since time immemorial. The need to emit sounds that are harmonic or pleasing to our ears dates back millennia. Over time, music became an industry rather than a recreational activity.
One of the instruments that became popular in the market worldwide was the guitar, which in its beginnings was simply an acoustic instrument that worked with the noise of strings. The industry led to the development of products such as multi-effects pedals, to amplify the possibility of sounds emitted from a guitar.
Next, you can read a guide to buying the best multi-effects pedal, based on the criteria issued by the buyers of the same. The comparison of multi-effects pedals is made based on the most requested features as well as based on how much it costs.
Exterior design
The aesthetics in the world of multi-effects pedals is something merely secondary, according to the opinions expressed by a large part of the users. However, most of them are concerned with the external design of their effects, because they need a multi-effects pedal that is intuitive to use and not complicated.
In the same way, the material that its outer part is made of must be resistant, according to what its buyers indicate, because many musicians, especially guitarists, choose to place multi-effects pedals on the floor.
But the comfort of the same does not only refer to the easy use of the pedals. Size and weight are important to define their location. The weight is not very relevant when they are placed on the floor, but the size is, because it can hinder the musician in his movements. On the other hand, if you decide to place the pedals on a music stand or other surface, the weight becomes important again.
number of effects
The essence of multi-effects pedals is that they can emit many different effects with respect to the sounds that guitars and other stringed instruments emit, so one of the most essential things to know before buying a multi-effects pedal is, according to what buyers indicate, the amount of effects they are capable of producing.
Some users require to use many of the most famous effects in their artistic productions, so they need a pedalboard that covers many of them.
Instead, other potential buyers only want a small number of specific effects, so they choose to buy a pedalboard with a more limited number of effects or even individual pedals. Multi-effects pedals with fewer effects are usually a cheaper product and work for many users.
Feeding
In a world where most of the products used are electronic, it is essential to know what the power mechanism is. This also applies to multi-effects pedals, whose feed mechanisms vary between the different types that exist.
Most users require products whose battery lasts as long as possible. This is the case when it comes to multi-effects pedals. One of the most popular forms of power is alkaline batteries, usually AA, which allow good performance and also a long amount of time.
However, multi-effects pedals that are powered by lithium batteries connected to mains power are also common, which can provide permanent operation if they are connected. But the newest option in the field of power is the multi-effects pedals that combine two and up to three power mechanisms, which allows them to be used whether or not they are connected or simply connected with a cable with a computer.
Recording
Multi-effects pedals are not content with just changing the sound of a note played by a guitar. Quite the contrary, these devices have been described by their buyers as versatile and allow multiple complementary options to the sound of the guitar. One of them is recording, which through the looper allows you to record parts of the sounds that are emitted when you play. In some cases, this tool is intuitive and only starts recording when it detects sound.
In this same area, there are multi-effects pedals that come with pre-recorded sounds, allowing many guitarists, especially amateurs and novices, to play on top of that default sound and thus facilitate their musical productions or whatever artistic creation they are doing. Buyers of these products recommend always considering the recording capability of the pedal if you want to use it in this area.
The 5 Best Multi Effects Pedals – Opinions 2022
The music industry is on the rise every day, and with it all the products it has created. Among them are multi-effects pedals, very effective in increasing the sound field of stringed instruments, as well as facilitating their recordings. For many, the question of which is the best multi-effects pedal is a problem. Below you can read a guide to the best multi-effects pedals of 2022, according to the criteria issued by their buyers.
1. Boss GT 1 Guitar Multi Effects Pedal
This multi-effects pedal is portable, thanks to its compact size and light weight. However, it features a powerful Boss-exclusive GT sound engine, which lets you select from a wide variety of effects and amps, so you can practice different musical styles.
Thanks to its intuitive interface, you can quickly create professional sounds, even if you have little experience. It also includes a footswitch and assignable control switch, allowing you to quickly adjust effects while playing guitar live. Also, it offers indicated functions to select and tweak the sound presets.
In this sense, it is possible to access the Boss Tone Central library, to download all the patches you need for free, as well as use professional editing programs. As if that were not enough, it can be used wirelessly using 4 AA batteries so you can play anywhere.
If you want to buy a guitar effects processor that is practical and functional at the same time, you may be interested in this Boss brand model. For this reason, we invite you to review its most relevant features.
Pros
Portable: It is a small and light device, which can be used with batteries to play anywhere without the need to connect too many cables. However, it also brings a feeder.
Engine: It incorporates a GT series sound engine, which is exclusive to the manufacturer and allows you to create effects to professionally play different musical styles.
Library: Includes access to the Boss Tone Central library, which has a large number of patches available for you to download completely free of charge.
Cons
Configuration: Although it has an intuitive interface, it is necessary to have some knowledge of this type of device to make the most of its full potential.
2. Vox Stomplab1G Guitar Multi-Effect Pedal
If you are looking for a multi-effects pedal for guitar, we recommend you take into account the Vox STOMPLAB1G as one of your options, because it has been considered by its buyers as a multifaceted, complex and practical pedalboard.
With dimensions of 17.8 x 5.1 x 17.8 centimeters and a weight of only two kilograms, this multi-effects pedalboard is constituted as a small device, which does not detract from its quality.
The body of the Vox STOMPLAB1G is metallic, in a compact way, which gives the product resistance, especially when it must be placed on the ground.
These pedals are capable of outputting more than 100 effects, and their calibration range is between 438 Hz and 445 Hz. It works with four AA alkaline batteries, which allow the device to be in use for 7.5 hours. In addition, it has the possibility of also using a lithium battery.
The following multi-effects pedal model offers great durability due to the materials in which it has been manufactured and is guaranteed by the best brand of multi-effects pedals on the market.
We invite you to know its characteristics below. Some might claim that Vox is the best multi-effects pedal brand out there today, but it will be up to you and your needs to determine this.
Pros
Materials: One of the highlights of this multi-effect pedal model is that it has a robust and resistant construction. The case that protects the internal systems is made of metal, ideal for when you put the pedalboard on the ground.
Effects – It can provide up to 100 different effects to your guitar sound so you can play any style of music you want.
Calibration: The calibration ranges of this pedalboard go from 438 Hz to 445 Hz. You can also easily choose the style you want to emulate thanks to a knob with categories (pop, metal, ballads, blues, etc.).
Power: to work it requires four AA-type alkaline batteries to obtain a range of 7.5 hours and if this is not enough, you can also insert a lithium battery.
Cons
Size: perhaps one of its disadvantages is its size, since it is a little larger than other models with dimensions of 17.8 x 5.1 x 17.8 centimeters.
3. ammoon Multiple PockRock Effect Pedal
It is a device that incorporates 5 modules, for a total of 15 different effects, so it gives you a small library of creative sounds. It also has a compact design with measurements of 13 x 8.5 x 3 cm and weighs only 270 g, so you will not have any problems when moving it from one place to another.
It has a two-digit LCD screen, which allows you to easily view the data. Also, it includes 40 pre-installed drum rhythms so you can experiment with different styles. Also, it is important to mention that it offers a capacity for 32 patches: 16 that you can create from scratch and 16 predefined for greater practicality.
It has Tone and Gain knobs, which allow you to easily control both brightness and distortion gain. As if that were not enough, it has 1/8″ jack connectors for headphone input and output, as well as a 1/4″ input jack.
Some users have commented that this is the best value for money multi-effects pedal, thanks to its different functions. However, it is worth reviewing the pros and cons of the product in more detail before making a decision.
Pros
Power: Includes a 9V DC adapter to connect to the mains, but it can also be used wirelessly with 2 AAA batteries to play in different environments.
Buckle: Thanks to the built-in metal buckle on the back, you can hang the pedal on your belt if you want quicker access to sound effects.
Rhythms: Comes with 40 pre-installed drum rhythms, so you can practice different styles of music, which favors versatility.
Cons
Language: The instruction manual is only available in English, which may delay learning if you are not familiar with the language.
4. Digitech Trio Guitar Multi-Effects Pedal
Practicality in a small size, without diminishing the quality of the product, is the main description made by users of the Digitech TRIO multi-effects pedal. This product has dimensions of 11.8 x 8.1 x 5.4 centimeters, which with its weight of 299 grams make this pedal one of the lightest on the market, not being a hindrance at practically any time of its use..
Users have rated this product as intuitive, because the menus with which it is handled are easy to use. In addition, this product allows recording, through an intelligent system through which it only begins to do so when it detects that sound is being produced.
Buyers have rated the effects of this product very positively, allowing the production of music with very defined genres and high quality, to which the styles of each musical genre are added.
If you still haven’t answered your question of which multi-effects pedal to buy, here’s a favorable option for a lightweight pedal for easy portability.
With so many models and brands it can be difficult to determine which multi-effects pedal to buy, so we hope the pros and cons of this option will help.
Pros
Styles: With the Digitech TRIO you can easily choose which style of music you want to play thanks to its selection knob.
Dimensions: its dimensions are compact and light in weight that facilitate its use, being the same 11.8 x 8.1 x 5.4 centimeters and weighing 299 grams.
Panel: In addition, it has a fairly intuitive panel so that you can master it in a short time and take advantage of it.
Cons
Distortion – One of their buyers reported that he would have preferred the guitar distortion to be a bit more intense.
Rhythms – Another indicated that the rhythms that can be activated are somewhat repetitive, indicating that it is mostly for rehearsal.
5. Behringer FX600 Digital MultiFX Stereo Multi-Pedal
Finding multi-effects pedals at a good price is often a bit tricky. Although the Behringer FX600 is not among the cheapest options, it is far from being among the most expensive and, for most of its buyers, it has managed to meet their expectations.
Most consider this to be a suitable product for all those who are beginners. Although it is made of plastic, users have not reported any failures in this regard regarding the strength of the product.
The Behringer FX600 has six different effects, making it easier for beginners just getting started with a multi-effects pedal to get started. It has dimensions of 17.4 x 9.9 x 5.9 centimeters, in addition to a weight of 331 grams. Its power mechanism is through a 1.9 volt lithium battery.
The latest model has been hailed as the best $50 multi-effects pedal at the moment. It is worth knowing what it offers you and deciding if it is the pedal you are looking for.
Being perhaps the best multi-effect pedal for 50 euros, the FX600 offers you a good value for money so you don’t spend too much and still enjoy your instrument like never before.
Pros
Ignition: It has a first class electronic igniter that will allow you to activate it without affecting the sound that is being played at that moment.
Beginners – If you’re just starting out in the world of stompbox effects, the FX600 offers a friendly, easy-to-master panel to get you started playing what you love.
Led: the FX600 will let you know that it is on, as well as the status of its battery through a bright led.
Cons
Materials: one detail to consider is that it is made of plastic, so you must be careful and avoid exerting too much force on it.
Power supply: unlike other pedals mentioned, this one can only be used with 1.9 V lithium batteries.
How to use a multi-effects pedal
A multi-effects pedal is the perfect ally for guitar professionals, students or hobbyists. No matter what musical genre you want to perform, the equipment has several effects and rhythms that will give your compositions an innovative nuance. If you are wondering how to use the multi-effects pedal, we have made a small summary to help you improve the experience of use.
Choose a space for the team
Take into account that when installing the equipment you must choose a suitable space to place it, taking into account that this should not obstruct your mobility at the time of each session. It is also important to maintain a good view of the device’s screen, thus achieving monitoring of sound effects or equalization levels.
Specify the type of food
The traditional way of generating electrical power to the equipment is the inclusion of 4 AA alkaline batteries; these can offer you up to 8 hours of continuous work without the need to recharge them. Likewise, you have the possibility of using a lithium battery, which with the help of an adequate electrical connection will provide enough energy for you to compose without worrying. As a third alternative is the placement of a USB cable, linking the pedal directly to the computer.
Plug the guitar into the pedalboard and amplifier
You must link an audio output cable from the pedalboard to the guitar and also to the amplifier. This is how the effects, rhythms and tones emitted by the guitar strings can be combined.
press the switch
You will find an on – off switch that you must press. You need to check the indicator light next to it; with it you will check the power input to the equipment.
Check the effects to use
In general, each team has a database with a minimum of 100 effects; Among them, distortion, amplification, echo, delay, modulation, phaser, etc. stand out. These effects are accompanied by various musical rhythms such as rock, punk, heavy metal, jazz, pop, and ballad. The selection is very easy; you only have to turn the knobs located at the top to mark the rhythm and the other for the effect, you can check on the LED screen until you get the one that suits the melody you are composing.
plug in headphones
The headphones are connected to the audio output jack located on the structure of the equipment; You must fit the connector well so that it makes the proper contact. This is how you will achieve a more private rehearsal without interrupting other people.
record your performances
The recording looper is a system that will help you capture your performances; so you can evaluate the chords you like and the modifications you want to make. Depending on the model you have, you have the option to record up to 30 seconds with professional quality.
Disconnect the equipment
Once the session is over, you must press the off switch, cutting off the power supply. Then, remove each of the cables that you initially connected to the different ports arranged in the structure of the device, taking special care not to damage them.
The most popular brands
Electric guitars and basses need a device that allows the tone of these instruments to be optimally varied, so multi-effects pedals are ideal. In this case we have brought together three of the best brands that offer this product so that you can learn a little more about them.
Zoom is a Japanese company that specializes in manufacturing and selling products for creating effects on musical instruments and recording devices.
The company was founded in 1983 in the city of Tokyo and began operations supporting other companies with sound devices and other audio systems.
Seven years later, the company decides to launch a first device on the market that allows the creation of effects on electric guitars, whose processor is connected to the guitar strap, proving to be an important technological innovation.
In the following years, the company dedicated itself to launching several lines of products to the market to create effects on guitars, these products being used professionally in most music studios in the world, in addition to being manufactured based on their own processors.
For the year 2006, the company reinvents itself by launching products that can interact with the computer to record audio tracks in MP3 format, which also include USB ports.
By 2013, the Zoom subsidiary was created in the United States, with the purpose of expanding products to the Americas and establishing itself as the leading brand in multi-effects pedals in the world.
Boss is a division of the Japanese company Roland Corporation. Boss was founded in 1973 in the city of Hamamatsu, which is responsible for producing multi-effects pedals for guitars and basses, as well as accessories.
The product line that Boss offers includes amplifiers, digital recorders, multi-effects pedals, compact effects processors, synthesizers, metronomes, vocal products, and accessories.
Over the years, Boss products have been successful, to the point that, in 1990, the company moved the factory to Taiwan, with the purpose of placing the company in a strategic location to serve the Asian market.
Boss products have been characterized by being used by famous musicians and guitarists. To name a few we have Eric Clapton, Prince, Kurt Cobain, Noel Gallagher, Stephen Carpenter and many others, giving this brand an important privilege within the industry.
Therefore, Boss is considered as one of the leading companies in the market that offers multi-effects pedals, and is also well known today.
One of the manufacturers that has made the most technological contributions in the music industry is the company Line 6, since this company is a pioneer in the manufacture of digital amplifiers and multi-effects pedals that allow bass and guitar to record with an excellent tone.. The company emerged in the 1990s and is headquartered in California, United States.
This company has always been characterized by innovating as time goes by, with the aim of constantly surpassing the quality and technology of the products it offers.
Within the line of products that Line 6 offers, you can find guitar and bass amplifiers, pedals and multi-effects pedals, audio interfaces with effects. In addition to strings and accessories that are essential for the line of acoustic, electric and bass guitars.
Line 6 also has communities and has a presence on social networks so that various users can share device configurations, patches or other material of common interest.
