Best Multi-Effects Pedals for Guitar
A multi-effects pedal replaces an entire pedalboard. I've tested some of the most popular models.
Verdict
HX Stomp ($699) for pro modeling, MX5 ($399) for touchscreen amp modeling, ME-90 ($349) for hands-on Boss tone, GT-1 ($199) for budget all-in-one
How to Choose the Best Multi-Effects Pedal?
The best multi-effects pedal depends on your rig and budget. The HX Stomp ($699) is the professional-grade choice with 300+ amps, cabs, and effects. The GT-1 ($199) is the best-selling budget option with 108 effects and a built-in expression pedal. Choose the HX Stomp for pro modeling, or the GT-1 for an affordable all-in-one.
Is the Line 6 Helix HX Stomp the Best Pedal for Your Pedalboard?
The Line 6 Helix HX Stomp ($699) is the most powerful compact multi-effects ever made. It packs 300+ amps, cabs, and effects from the flagship Helix into a stompbox, with up to 6 simultaneous blocks, an integrated looper, IR loading, and a USB audio interface. It is a complete studio and live rig in one pedal.
Is the Boss GT-1 the Best Pedal for Your Pedalboard?
The Boss GT-1 ($199) is the best-selling budget multi-effects pedal. It delivers 108 effects, 198 patches, and COSM amp models with a built-in expression pedal and a 32-second looper. It runs for up to 7 hours on 4 AA batteries, making it a complete rig for beginners and traveling players.
Is the Boss ME-90 the Best Pedal for Your Pedalboard?
The Boss ME-90 ($349) is the best-selling hands-on multi-effects floorboard. It delivers 11 AIRD amp models and 60 effects derived from the flagship GT-1000, with 8 footswitches and an expression pedal for stompbox-style control. It loads 3 custom IRs, includes an FX loop for external pedals, and runs on 4 AA batteries.
Is the HeadRush MX5 the Best Pedal for Your Pedalboard?
The HeadRush MX5 ($399) is the best-selling compact amp modeler. It packs 52 amp models, 15 cabs, 300 IRs, and 74+ effects with a 4-inch touchscreen, an expression pedal, MIDI I/O, and a 20-minute looper. It doubles as a 24-bit USB audio interface for recording and re-amping.
Conclusion
The HX Stomp ($699) is the professional-grade multi-effects for serious players who want Helix tone. The ME-90 ($349) and MX5 ($399) are the two best-selling hands-on multi-effects for live players. The GT-1 ($199) is the best-selling budget option. Start with the GT-1 or ME-90 to learn, then step up to the MX5 or HX Stomp.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Products Are in This Guide?
Line 6 Helix HX Stomp
$699
The professional multi-effects that packs 300+ Helix amps, cabs, and effects into a stompbox. Up to 6 simultaneous blocks, an integrated looper, IR loading, and a USB audio interface. The most powerful compact guitar rig ever made.
Boss GT-1
$199
The best-selling budget multi-effects with 108 effects, 198 patches, and COSM amp models. Built-in expression pedal, 32-second looper, and 7 hours of battery life on 4 AA batteries. A complete rig in a compact pedal.
Boss ME-90
$349
The best-selling Boss multi-effects with 11 AIRD amp models and 60 effects from the flagship GT-1000. Eight footswitches, a built-in expression pedal, IR loading, an FX loop, and a 38-second looper in a battery-powered floorboard.
HeadRush MX5
$399
The best-selling compact amp modeler and multi-effects with a 4-inch touchscreen. 52 amp models, 15 cabs, 300 IRs, and 74+ effects with a looper, expression pedal, MIDI, and a USB audio interface.
Reviews
(0 reviews)
Cuban Tres, Bass & Guitar - played and recorded with my personal gear