10 Best Effects Pedals 2026 in the United States

The Line 6 HX Stomp is a compact and powerful multi-effects pedal that fits well for guitarists or musicians who want a wide variety of tones in a small package. It offers over 300 effects and amp models, all based on the same technology as the higher-end Helix series, giving you a lot of creative options. You can run up to six effects or amp blocks at once, which means you can build complex sounds including a looper and even load custom impulse responses for speaker simulation.

The pedal’s three touch-sensitive footswitches with colorful LED rings make switching and editing effects quick and intuitive, and there’s also an input for an expression pedal to add more control. It runs on a standard 9-volt power supply, which is convenient for most pedalboards. The build feels solid and durable, suitable for gigging musicians. At a little under 7 inches long and about 3.3 pounds, it’s compact enough to fit on most pedalboards without taking up much space.

This versatile pedal is ideal for players wanting professional-grade sounds and flexibility in a small form factor, though beginners might find the range of options a bit overwhelming at first.

The Strymon BigSky Multi Reverb Pedal is an impressive tool for musicians seeking to enhance their sound with rich and diverse reverb options. With 12 unique reverb types, ranging from classic Spring and Hall to more modern effects like Shimmer and Magneto, it offers a broad palette for creative expression. The pedal's full 24-bit/96K audio resolution ensures that every nuance is captured beautifully, making it suitable for both electric and acoustic instruments, as well as vocals and keyboards.

One of the standout features is its tactile control layout, which allows for easy adjustments on the fly. Musicians can quickly tweak sounds with dedicated knobs or dive deeper into the settings for more customized tones. The inclusion of 300 presets and full MIDI compatibility makes it highly versatile for live performances and studio work.

Build quality is another strong point, with a sturdy design that is built to last, though the pedal may be a bit heavier compared to other options, weighing in at 1.85 pounds. Its true bypass feature ensures that your signal remains pure when the effect is not in use, which is crucial for maintaining tone integrity. The BigSky may be considered expensive for beginners or casual players, as it targets more serious musicians looking for advanced capabilities. Additionally, the numerous features might feel overwhelming for those who prefer straightforward effects. Its dimensions also mean it takes up a bit more space on a pedalboard.

For guitarists and musicians who value versatility in their effects and are willing to invest, the Strymon BigSky is a powerful choice that can elevate any musical performance with its expansive reverb capabilities.

The Eventide H90 Harmonizer Multi-effects Pedal is designed for musicians seeking a versatile tool for sound manipulation. With 64 algorithms, it offers a wide array of effects that can cater to various musical styles, making it a great choice for guitarists and other instrument players who want to experiment with sound. The inclusion of two expression inputs allows for real-time control over effects, enhancing creativity during performances. Additionally, the USB functionality and MIDI In/Out/Thru provide seamless integration with other equipment and software, making it suitable for both live and studio settings.

One of the strong points of the H90 is its compact size, measuring just 10.5 x 7.1 x 3 inches, which makes it easy to fit on pedalboards without taking up too much space. The build quality appears solid, suggesting durability over time, which is crucial for musicians who travel and perform frequently. It operates at 9 volts and requires a corded electric power source, which might limit its portability compared to battery-powered options, but it ensures consistent performance without the worry of battery life.

On the downside, the H90 might be overwhelming for beginners due to its advanced features and plethora of options. Users who prefer straightforward, single-effect pedals may find it complex. The price point could also be a hurdle for some, especially those just starting their musical journey. The H90 is best suited for experienced musicians looking for a high-quality, multi-functional pedal that can greatly expand their sound capabilities.