If you’re anything like me, you’ll have struggled massively with cramming pedals onto a pedalboard. Not only is it time-consuming and costly, but there’s always the latest release you’ve been eyeing up to tempt you into adding even more to your ‘board, or replacing your existing pedals. If you want something simpler and more cost-effective than doing this, then you should have a look at the best multi-effects pedals.
The term multi-effects pedal is a bit of a misnomer nowadays, and that’s because they do far more than just provide you with a selection of effects. Thanks to the advent of amp modeling technology and the ability to cram more and more DSP (Digital Signal Processing) power into smaller and smaller units, today’s multi-FX pedals are now able to replace your guitar amp, cabinet, and pedals entirely.
If you’re looking for the very best overall, then I think the Neural DSP Quad Cortex is the best all-around multi-effects right now. It has a huge selection of sounds to play with, and some of the best amp models I’ve ever heard. If you want something a little cheaper than that, have a look at the Mooer S1 Prime, which is much more like a traditional multi-effects pedal, coming in around the $150 mark.
If you’[re new to multi-effects pedals, I highly recommend you check out my how to choose section, which will take you through everything you need to know before buying. I’ve also put together a comprehensive FAQs section which will answer any burning questions, and a glossary of key terms to help you break down the technical lingo used in this guide.
Best overall
✅Buy if you need something that can do it all: Looking to replace your entire rig? The Quad Cortex will take the place of your amp, cabinet and effects pedals with aplomb.
❌ Avoid if you’re on a budget: This level of quality just doesn't come cheap.
Overall
Well, if you’ve been keeping your eyes and ears open it’s likely you’ve heard of Neural DSP, or at least heard about what they’ve been up to. They started life as a company producing incredible guitar amp plugins for many of the guitar world’s most exciting new talents, and now they’ve delved into hardware with the impressive Quad Cortex.
Build quality
It is a bit pricey, but the physical and aural quality that you get in return is pretty stunning. The 7-inch touchscreen is incredibly intuitive and makes cycling through options a doddle, and the stainless steel rotary switches immediately feel like a premium piece of gear through build quality alone.
Usability
You won’t be solely using the QC as a multi-effects unit, but with 70+ effects to make the most of, it’d be remiss of us to gloss over them. Over 50 onboard amp models (with over 1,000 more amp algorithms sat in the Sound Library) and over 1,000 impulse responses make up the basis of your tone, and access to so many different effects makes the Quad Cortex a seriously versatile and creativity-inducing piece of gear.
One of the things I love most about the QC is that, despite the huge depth on offer, it’s incredibly easy to use. The rotary foot switches are absolute genius, working as both buttons to press and knobs for changing settings. Add in a responsive touch screen, and you’ve got something that’s incredibly intuitive even when setting up complex signal chains.
Sounds
Ultimately, we think it’s probably the closest you’ll get to tube amp tone and attitude without throwing a tube stage in there somewhere - and that’s a very large tick in the box for us. The effects are not only fantastic sounding, but there is a bucket-load to choose from. Overall, the Quad Cortex is still the best on the market.
"From any angle, the Quad Cortex is a clever, feature-packed, well-built, and great-sounding unit. What’s more, it’s truly fun and inspiring to play and easy to use. It promises to be a strong contender in this market, and earns an Editors’ Pick Award for its achievement."
Read more: Neural DSP Quad Cortex review
Best budget
✅ Buy if you appreciate expanded controls. Connecting your smartphone via Bluetooth and the Prime S1 opens up, offering amazing controllable options.
❌ Avoid if you gig: The amp modeling leaves a little to be desired, plus, it isn’t the sturdiest for taking on the road.
Overview
Mooer’s Prime S1 multi-effects pedal is a recent product of their Intelligent series, and one that prides itself on versatility, too. It is affordable, incredibly portable, and offers plenty of features that belie its cheap and cheerful price tag.
Build quality
At this price point, it won’t come as a surprise that Mooer doesn’t use aircraft-grade aluminum casing or stainless steel switches. However, its construction does come with positives; weighing 350g, it is incredibly portable. Plus, it's built-in rechargeable battery allows you to use this thing anywhere, and its USB audio out makes it easy to record into your device of choice!
Usability
The S1 is rich with effects, offering you 126 different effects, amps, and cab tones to work with; an app gives you complete control over all this via Bluetooth, and Mooer’s cloud platform allows you to edit, download, and add more effects to the library (including adding your own cab IRs, which is a huge boon for something this cheap).
Sounds
Though there are amp simulations in the Prime S1, these leave a little to be desired. Still, the wider functionality of the Prime S1 won’t have you holding any grudges, like the 80-second looper. In all, the Prime S1 is a supremely affordable, entry-level, slip-in-your-back-pocket multi-effects device. It’s perfect for getting to grips with sounds, sketching ideas, recording on the road, or simply practicing with ease at home.
Best for beginners
✅ Buy if you want to experiment: With over 200 different effects and amp preset options, this will keep beginners inspired for hours whilst helping develop personal playing styles.
❌ Avoid if you want super accurate amp modeling: Some of the models here fall short of other offerings from Neural DSP, Line 6, Fractal, and others.
Overview
Boss is one of the kings of multi-effects pedals, with their products gaining a reputation for being solid, durable, high-spec, and producing some great tones. The GX-1, although aimed at beginners and those who don’t have so much pedal experience, doesn’t disappoint.
Build quality
The GX-1 comes in a rugged but lightweight chassis with an accompanying expression control pedal. It’s incredibly slim, small enough to easily fit into a backpack to take to a guitar lesson or your first band rehearsals. It can be powered by four AA batteries for up to 7 hours, or you can use a 9V DC power supply, and even a USB-C cable to power it, ensuring your tone never goes down.
Usability
I love that when you put the heel down on the expression pedal it automatically engages the tuner; it’s a nice feature that you’d expect to see on something a lot more expensive, and makes a lot of sense as you’d typically roll the volume down when finishing a song. It’s also super easy to change your signal chain thanks to the dedicated, light-up buttons which correspond to each ‘block’, allowing for quick and easy changes.
Sounds
While I don’t think the amp modeling here is the equal of units like the Quad Cortex, Fractal, or Helix, they’re certainly good enough for beginner players looking to make their first strides. The effects are second to none, though, as you might expect from one of the kings of the stompbox. There’s a huge array of distortions, delays, reverbs, and even some more out there tones like the Boss Harmonist, as well as the ability to change the tone of your electric guitar to an acoustic guitar.
Best portable
✅ Buy if you’re all about saving space: At around 80% smaller than the flagship Helix, the Stomp is a dream for those trying to cut down on rig size.
❌ Avoid if you’re not the most dexterous: Its smaller size may cause a few problems for players on the clumsier side; it can feel a bit fiddly.
Overview
The HX Stomp is a compact solution for those who’re either looking for a rig-in-a-box setup for a great price or have had their eyes set on the full-fat Helix and want something smaller and simpler to try out.
Build quality
On the face of it, it’s a simple, small unit - but don’t let the diminutive size fool you. Line 6 hasn’t cut any corners with build quality. The professional-grade chassis feels like it can survive a hurricane, whilst the 2.4" color LCD is a decent size and gives enough window to see what you’re doing easily. Even the click of the 3-foot switches feels reassuring and sturdy.
Usability
The capability of the HX Stomp is pretty mind-blowing. With over 300 effects onboard, including legacy Line 6 patches, Helix, and M Series effects, we can’t fathom a situation where you won’t be able to find the sound you’re looking for. It’s got all the same amp models as the full-size Helix, too.
We found that its small size does make it a little bit fiddly to program, but Line 6’s HX Edit software gives you a pretty straightforward editing platform if you’ve got the time to plug in your HX Stomp. Honestly, we aren’t fussed that it’s a bit fiddly when the pros vastly outweigh the cons.
Sounds
Utilizing the same technology as its flagship Helix models, the Stomp sounds excellent. Considering it’s roughly 80% smaller, that’s a seriously impressive feat of engineering. There’s a vast range of effects on offer, alongside a comprehensive selection of amp and cab models.
As with much of Line 6’s modern ecosystem, ongoing firmware updates continue to expand its capabilities. The latest update adds three new amplifiers, including the Grammatico GSG, further enhancing an already deep feature set.
Best for gigging
✅ Buy if you take tone seriously: Kemper has nailed the intricacies and quirks of amplifier DNA, meaning it’s one of the most authentic bits of modern gear on the market.
❌ Avoid if you’re not the most tech-savvy: You do get used to it with some practice, but I foresee technophobes having issues with programming this thing.
Overview
Kemper has taken the convenience and powerful tonal capabilities of their profiling amplifier range to another level with their Profiler Stage - a powerful, pedalboard-friendly version of their popular head and rack models.
Build quality
If you’ve experience with Kemper, you’ll notice that the Profiler Stage is housed in a very similar-looking control system to the Kemper Remote. Luckily for you, this format is incredibly strong and durable, and thankfully, very straightforward to use.
Features
As far as setup goes, like any complex piece of gear, we found it takes a little while to get the hang of, but once you learn it, you’re away. Programming footswitches, effects, and performances are all straightforward tasks, meaning you can get on with playing instead of having to tweak your settings - and let’s be honest, you won’t stop playing.
Sounds
Now, Kemper’s main selling point is that it actually isn’t an amp modeler at all - it’s a Profiler. Kemper states that a profile captures the ‘sonic DNA’ of an amp, and we’d have to agree. The Kemper understands and recreates the personality of an amplifier, rather than just replicating a specific tone. It comes with hundreds of sophisticated and addictive amp profiles already onboard, with thousands more waiting for you in the Rig Manager - you’ll never run out of options.
Best for home studio
✅ Buy if you’re looking for an all-in-one home studio solution. Realistically, you won’t need another piece of gear for the studio or at home playing. The Helix is the real deal with amazing effects and genuinely impressive amp tones.
❌ Avoid if you’re a beginner player: The Helix may be overkill for players who are just getting started. It’s an advanced piece of kit that may be excessive for some.
Overview
Now in its second iteration, Line 6’s flagship amp and effects modeler has gotten a huge update with a brand new amp modeling engine, plus plenty of user-friendly upgrades over the previous version. It’s slightly smaller, although still pretty hefty, and the new screen is huge, delivering a vibrant full color experience that really needs to be seen.
Build quality
The brushed aluminium chassis is rock solid, and all the footswitches and knobs are very nicely applied. While I’ve picked this as a great choice for the home studio, there’s no doubting that this will do a great job when playing live, too. The expression pedal is similarly carved from aluminum, so it will put up with the pressure of a heavy foot, and I really love the improved scribble strips with their high contrast display.
Usability
If you used the previous generation Helix, then you’ll be right at home here, but for those coming from a different ecosystem, the Stadium XL is still very easy to use thanks to the massive screen. The block-style signal path flow is a popular one in modern modeling tech, and it allows for a great overview of your sound that makes it easy to drag, drop, and switch blocks at will.
The footswitches retain their capacitance touch capabilities, so you can simply touch your finger to a footswitch and hold to bring up whichever block it’s assigned to on the screen. There are plenty of encoders to get you hands on with settings, and it retains the preset, stomp, or scene modes from the previous that mean you can set it up exactly to your liking.
Sounds
Not all of the amps and effects have received the new Agoura amp modeling upgrade, but for those that have, you can absolutely tell the difference between the two. The playing dynamics are much better than the previous version; there’s a real amp-like clarity to the tones, and harmonics and overtones are much more convincing here.
The effects are the same as on the previous models, which means some of the best reverbs, delays, and modulations you’ll hear. There’s a huge selection to choose from, which means whether you want vintage-flavored spring reverb and tremolo, or you want to go full-on The Mars Volta, you’ve got plenty of options with the Stadium XL.
Also consider
How to choose
Helping guitarists choose their first multi-effects pedal was part of my day job for the best part of a decade. Having been in music retail for all of those years, I came up with a game plan when tackling this decision. These four points are my key considerations that will help any guitarist select their next multi-effects pedal. Keeping these in mind will steer you in the right direction.
1. Usability
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This first point may sound trivial, but it’s actually very important. Like other guitar gear, multi-effects units come in differing levels of complexity. How willing are you to learn the user interface of an advanced multi-effects pedal?
If you aren’t, then sticking to a clean layout, designed for those looking to experiment with a few effects while playing casually, is the type of multi-effects unit you should go for. The more advanced options, like the Kemper Profiler or Line 6 Helix, are probably going to be overkill.
2. Amp modeling
Amp modeling and multi-effects often go hand-in-hand. However, if you’re not going to benefit from amp modeling on your multi-effects pedal, then it may just get in the way. There are plenty of options out there that prioritize effects alone, so if you’re not going to get use out of built-in amps, then these are the options to go for.
However, if you’re looking for an all-in-one solution and like the sound of having one bit of gear that does it all, be on the lookout for a model that gives you both, like the Line 6 HX Stomp.
3. Size
Next, what size do you need? Smaller units save space, for sure, but they often come with fewer foot controls than their bigger counterparts. You may want multiple channels all accessible via individual footswitches, perhaps even an expression pedal to boot.
If this is the case, a compact multi-effects unit isn’t going to cut it. Like always, the compromise between functionality and space-saving is a tricky one to get right, so taking time to consider this will help you in the long run.
4. Connectivity
Lastly, thinking about connectivity options is a good way to future-proof your purchase. If you like the idea of being able to edit signal flow, mic placement on cabinets, effect types or anything of the sort via computer software, then you’re going to need a USB output. Or, do you need an effects loop? Would you like the ability to play in stereo? Do you need an expression pedal connection?
All of these may be important to you, but they may also not be. Thinking about your application, what you want to do in the future, and what you may need is an important consideration.
FAQs
Should I buy a multi-effects or individual pedals?
There are arguments for either, so it’s a good idea to consider both sides. Multi-effects are great for players who want an all-in-one solution for their pedalboard; heck, many can even replace your amplifier. This isn’t just for beginners either; professional options like the Line 6 Helix show that multi-effects can cut it with the big kids. If you are a beginner, multi-effects offer a cost-effective way to experiment with a multitude of effects without having to buy individual pedals, and are therefore a great learning tool. For the gigging musician, having a multi-effects unit instead of an entire pedalboard is also a great space-saving solution.
On the other hand, some players prefer the customization and individuality that buying individual pedals brings. You can carefully select each type of overdrive on your ‘board according to your tastes, for example, and really craft your own tones. Plus, for many, buying individual pedals is one of the best parts of being into guitar culture, as well as supporting boutique companies doing really cool things. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and there’s nothing to say you can’t use both.
What is the difference between modeling, capturing, and profiling?
Although the differences between modeling, capturing and profiling can often be confusing, ultimately they are all methods of digitizing music gear. How they do that is the key difference.
Firstly, modeling works by simulating how electrical components within an amplifier or effect interact with each other. Engineers study the relationship between tubes, resistors and capacitors, replicating how they behave. Modeling is a highly flexible option and gives you plenty of control over shaping your tone from the ground up.
On the other hand, capturing and profiling take a snapshot of an existing piece of gear. Profiling, made famous by Kemper, involves analysing how an amp responds to a series of test signals and recreating that behaviour digitally. Capturing, used by brands like Neural DSP, is a more modern evolution of this idea, aiming to replicate not just the sound, but also the feel and response of the original gear with even greater accuracy. However, you typically have less tone sculpting options with this method. Think of it like EQ’ing an already existing record, as opposed to changing the amp settings itself.
In simple terms, modeling builds the amp from scratch in the digital world, while profiling and capturing are about recreating a real amp as closely as possible.
Is it better to have a touchscreen or physical knobs?
This is pure preference. What is better for me will likely be different for you. However, there are a few things to consider that may help you formulate your opinion. A touchscreen is typically better if you want to heavily tweak effects, chain signal paths, and get really deep editing capabilities. It’s a little easier to drastically change settings with a screen.
However, good old-fashioned knobs can feel a little more secure, are unlikely to let you down and, for some, are a lot less fiddly. Knobs are typically easier for changing levels too, as it can feel like you have a little more control over parameters and micro-adjustments. However, it is all horses for courses.
Do I need an FX loop?
There may be a few reasons you’d want an FX loop built into your multi-effects pedal. Some have this, so you can better integrate any external pedals into your signal chain a bit more flexibly. It also allows you to place effects where they sound and perform best. For instance, if you want an external overdrive pedal placed before the amplifier model in your multi-effects pedal, using the FX loop is the way to go.
It’s also useful if you already have pedals you love and don’t want to replace. Instead of choosing between your multi-effects and your stompboxes, the loop lets them work together as one cohesive rig. If you don’t see those points as beneficial, then you probably don’t need an FX loop.
What is an impulse response and do I need some?
An impulse response is the technology in multi-effects or floor modelers that mimics the response of speaker cabinets in different situations. For example, a guitar cabinet will sound different depending on the microphone used, the room it’s in, or even the speaker itself. An impulse response replicates how a specific cab, mic, and environment respond together, capturing those subtle differences. It is a realistic and dynamic technology that has been designed to make digital gear sound more authentic.
As to whether you actually need them, it all depends on what level you’re operating at. For beginners, they’re not necessary, but if you’re a more experienced player who wants the most realistic sound possible, adding 3rd party impulse responses alongside a multi-effects pedal can really up the response, feel, and tone of the amp models.
Will the sound cut out when I change presets?
If you are cycling through presets, then yes, chances are that the sound will cut out very briefly. However, we’re talking milliseconds here, and modern pedals are powerful enough for most players not to notice this drop. If you have your own presets saved in a bank, this can typically reduce that cutout to an even less noticeable level.
What is the DSP limit?
If you hit the DSP limit, it means that you have maxed out your multi-effects pedal and it doesn’t have any more processing power to cope with additional demands. For example, if you load 26 effects in a row, your multi-effects may only have enough DSP power to handle that, limiting what else you can add. It’s not something you’ll encounter often, particularly with high-end gear, but it does depend on how you use it.
Will my multi-effects pedal become obsolete?
Your multi-effects pedal can become obsolete if it isn’t capable of accepting firmware updates. The brand also needs to actively provide those updates. For example, Line 6 and Kemper regularly release firmware updates that fix bugs, add new effects and amps, and improve overall performance. If the multi-effects pedal you buy doesn’t support updates, it may become outdated as guitar technology continues to advance. The reality is it will take many years, maybe even decades for a multi-effects pedal to become obsolete.
Key terms
- 4-cable method: This is a method of connecting your multi-effects to both the amp’s input and effects loop at the same time using 4 guitar cables. This allows you to place effects either before or after the amp’s gain stage, depending on your preference.
- Aliasing: This is a type of digital distortion, typically heard in the higher frequencies, that occurs when a multi-effects processor can’t accurately represent a signal. It happens when the sample rate isn’t high enough to capture those frequencies, causing harsh, digital overtones.
- Block: A block refers to the representation of an effect (or other setting) in a signal chain on multi-effects units. On digital multi-effects, it is typically represented by a traditional stompbox-style icon.
- DSP (Digital Signal Processing): DSP refers to the chips found inside a multi-effects pedal that do most of the work. They convert your guitar signal into digital code, manipulate it, and then convert it back to analog to send further down the signal chain.
- FRFR (Full Range, Flat Response): These are speakers designed to have the flattest possible frequency response, allowing them to accurately represent digital modelers. With modelers, you don’t want your speaker colouring the tone, as this is handled by the modeling itself.
- Firmware: Simply put, this is the software found in your multi-effects pedal. It operates the entire unit and controls the DSP. Brands often release firmware updates to fix bugs or introduce new amps and effects.
- IR (Impulse Response): This is the technology that captures the specific characteristics of a speaker, along with the effect of different microphones, cabinets, and rooms on the sound. Think of it as a digital snapshot.
- Latency: Otherwise known as lag, latency refers to the delay between hitting your guitar string and hearing it through your speakers. High latency is a major issue for guitarists, as it can throw off your timing and feel.
- Modeling: This is a type of digital technology that uses DSP to emulate the tones of real-life amplifiers and effects. It uses software to recreate a signal chain, as opposed to physical circuits.
- Menu-diving: A term used to describe navigating deep into menu screens on multi-effects units, often to tweak detailed parameters.
- Patch/Preset: A saved combination of amp settings, effects, and signal chain configuration that can be recalled instantly.
- Scenes/Snapshots: Variations within a preset that allow you to switch between different settings (such as turning effects on/off) without changing the entire patch.
- Wet/Dry: Refers to the balance between the affected signal (wet) and the unaffected signal (dry).
How we test
At Guitar Player, our team of seasoned musicians has extensively explored the realm of multi-effects pedals ever since the first models started arriving in the 80s. Since then we've been rigorously testing various models in real-world scenarios to provide you with practical and dependable reviews and recommendations.
Our curated selection of the best multi-effects pedals embodies exceptional versatility, intuitive interfaces, and outstanding performance. We meticulously assess factors such as effects quality, ease of use, build durability, and overall sonic capabilities to ensure that these pedals stand as prime examples of multi-effects excellence.
With the expertise of Guitar Player, you can be assured our recommended multi-effects pedals are all meticulously evaluated by actual musicians. Whether you're a stage performer, studio enthusiast, or home player, we're sure you'll find the perfect multi-effects pedal to elevate your playing and inspire your musical evolution.
Read more on how we test gear and services at Guitar Player.
