Employee Review

Multi effects versus single pedals?

One of the most polarizing subjects in this crazy guitar business, this is a tough one. Are you a tone fanatic who must have the finest components in your rig? Usually, the tone buffs go for the single pedal route. This is because the player gets more control over the effected signal, and can make changes on the fly by just twiddling a knob or two. Typically, multi effect units provide an abundance of sounds, but less real-time control over them. The emergence of the boutique pedal fad has brought these and other issues to the forefront. Another issue that some folks shy away from, is tone. Most would agree that single pedals that have one main function "sound" better than most multi effect units. This is usually due to the fact that the boutique pedals do ONE thing, and the multi is trying to accomplish MANY things. We usually recommend an inexpensive multi effect unit for the player who is just getting into effects, and wants to learn more about sounds. After they learn what they like, we're there to help pick out the first high end overdrive, or the first analog delay. One great suggestion for a world-class multi effect is the new Line 6 M13, it's the coolest thing on the effect market today! These are all opinions, of course, each player must find their own way!