Multi effects pedals are a must-have for guitar players who want to explore different sounds and tones without having to buy multiple pedals. These pedals combine various effects like distortion, delay, reverb, and modulation into one compact unit, making it easier to switch between sounds during a performance.
Maybe more important. They save room on your pedalboard. With all the new pedals and effects that come out each year, this is getting harder to do, so a multi effects pedal that can handle some of these effects really helps.
Here is what I look at when choose this kind of pedal: Quality of effects, ease of use, number of effects at one time, customization, and presets. A good multi effects pedal should also have a sturdy build since you’ll be stomping on it regularly. And of course, it needs to sound good with different combinations of guitars and amplifiers.
After researching various multi effects pedals under $200, here are the ones stand out in terms of performance, versatility, and value for money. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned guitarist, these pedals can get the job done.
Best Multi Effects Pedals in 2023
A lot of these pedals were released in previous years, but don’t let that sway you. There are session guitarists using multi effects pedals that are 10+ years old. Many of these pedals are now very affordable and still excellent but fall in the sub $200 price range. So, without further delay, let’s get started.
Zoom G1X FOUR Guitar Multi-Effects Processor
Pros
- With over 70 built-in effects and 13 amp models, you’ll have plenty of options to play around with.
- The free download of Zoom Guitar Lab Mac/Windows software allows you to access even more effects and amp models.
- The 30-second looper and 68 built-in rhythm patterns are great for practicing and jamming.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the plastic casing feels a bit flimsy.
- It can be a bit tricky to navigate through all of the different effects and amp models.
- The battery life could be better, so you may want to invest in a power supply.
The range of effects and amp models is really impressive. The free Zoom Guitar Lab software is also a nice touch, as it allows you to download even more effects and amp models.
The looper and rhythm patterns are also great features, especially if you’re looking to practice your playing or jam with friends. The looper to be really intuitive and easy to use, and the rhythm patterns are a lot of fun to play along with.
Overall, the Zoom G1X FOUR is a great option for guitarists who are looking for an affordable multi-effects pedal with a lot of features. It may not be the most durable or user-friendly option out there, but it’s definitely worth considering if you’re on a budget.
NUX MG-300 Multi Effects Pedal
The NUX MG-300 Multi Effects Pedal is for guitarists who want to take their sound to the next level. This pedal offers a wide range of effects and features that can help you achieve the perfect sound for your music.
Pros
- The Pre-Effects and Amp Modeling algorithm provides optimum sound response and playability.
- You can load 3rd-party IRs to expand sound ability
- Includes 56 drum beats
- 60 seconds of Phrase Loop Synchronization with Rhythm.
Cons
- The Expression Pedal can be a bit tricky to use at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a great tool for controlling the volume or the effects.
- The Data Cable for USB port is not included, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you plan on using it.
- The screen could be a bit bigger, but it’s still easy to navigate and use.
The NUX MG-300 Multi Effects Pedal came out before the NUX MG-30, which is more of a Helix style amp modeler. I owned the NUX MG-30 for a while and loved it. It’s an excellent value, but its release brought down the MG-300 putting it at a nice price point for quality multi-effects.
Valeton GP-100 Multi-Effects Pedal
If you’re looking for a multi-effects pedal that delivers an organic living tone, the Valeton GP-100 is a great option.
Pros
- With 140 built-in guitar/bass/acoustic effects, 45 legendary amp models, and 40 IR cabinet simulations, you’ll have a ton of options to choose from.
- The 100 built-in drum rhythms and 90-second looper make it easy to create your own unique sound.
- The 3rd party IR support (20 user slots) allows you to create custom unique sounds.
Cons
- The pedal can be a bit overwhelming at first, and it takes some time to figure out how to use all of the features.
- The software for sound editing and preset managing can be a bit buggy at times.
- The expression pedal can be a bit stiff and difficult to use.
One thing that we did find a bit challenging was getting used to all of the different features and settings. The pedal can be a bit overwhelming at first, and it takes some time to figure out how to use everything. However, once you get the hang of it, it’s a really powerful tool.
The Valeton GP-100 is a great multi-effects pedal that offers a lot of versatility and flexibility. It’s a bit of a learning curve to get used to all of the features, but once you do, it’s a really powerful tool for creating your own unique sound.
MOOER GE100 Multi-effects Processor Electric Guitar Pedal Amp
Pros
- With 80 preset patches and 80 user patches, you can easily save your preferred tones by pressing down the SAVE button.
- The 8 effect modules, including 66 effect types, provide you with a unique Mooer sound library. Simply rotate the knob above the screen and everything is there.
- The 6 assignable expression pedal parameters greatly improve the convenience and diversity of controlling the tone. The unique adjustable output mode setting allows you to use line out mode to still get a good tone when playing without an amp.
Cons
- The looper and drum machine are limited to 180 seconds, which may not be enough for some users.
- The scale and chord learning function may not be useful for more experienced guitar players.
- The pedal may not be as sturdy as some other multi-effect pedals on the market.
In our experience, the MOOER GE100 is a great multi-effect pedal for beginners and intermediate players who want to explore different sounds and effects without breaking the bank. Overall, the MOOER GE100 is a great multi-effect pedal for the price. It may not be the most durable or feature-packed pedal on the market, but it offers enough versatility and convenience for most guitar players. If you’re on a budget and want to explore different sounds and effects, then the MOOER GE100 is definitely worth checking out.
Boss GT-1 Guitar Multi-Effects Pedal
Pros
- With 108 effects and 198 patches, this pedal offers a wide range of sounds and tones to choose from.
- The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and use on the go.
- Battery life is impressive and the low battery warning ensures you won’t be caught off guard during a performance.
Cons
- The initial setup can be challenging and time-consuming to get the desired sounds and effects.
- The pedal does not come with a power cord or USB cable, which can be an additional expense.
- Some users have reported issues with compatibility with certain amps or difficulty with connecting to a computer.
The Boss GT-1 Guitar Multi-Effects Pedal is an excellent choice for guitar players of all levels. The wide range of effects and patches allows for endless experimentation and customization. The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to take on the go, while the long battery life ensures you won’t be interrupted during a performance.
The initial setup can be a bit daunting, but with some patience and experimentation, you can achieve the perfect sound. It’s important to note that the pedal does not come with a power cord or USB cable, so you will need to purchase those separately. Overall, the Boss GT-1 Guitar Multi-Effects Pedal is a great investment for any guitar player looking to expand their sound and tone options.
MOOER PE100
If you’re looking for a portable multi-effects pedal for your guitar, the MOOER PE100 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The compact size makes it easy to carry around and use anywhere.
- The touch panel operation is intuitive and user-friendly.
- With 99 factory presets and 99 user presets, you have plenty of options to choose from.
Cons
- The drum patterns and metronomes may not be as advanced as some users would like.
- The display may be difficult to read in certain lighting conditions.
- The plastic casing may not be as durable as metal casings on other pedals.
We were impressed by the MOOER PE100’s range of amp models, effects, stompboxes, and tuner, all packed into a compact size. The touch panel operation was easy to use and allowed us to easily create and control our tone. The 99 factory presets, and 99 user presets provided plenty of options to choose from, and the QUICK RECALL buttons made it easy to instantly store and recall our favorite presets.
The MOOER PE100 also functions as a guitar practice tool, with 40 drum patterns and 10 metronomes, as well as tap tempo functionality for control of the drum machine, metronome, and delay effects. It’s super easy to program, small enough to slip into your pocket, and can be powered by a small DC power adapter or by battery.
Zoom MS-50G MultiStomp Guitar Effects Pedal
Pros
- The interface is intuitive and easy to use, with an LCD screen, footswitch, and analog-style cursor keys/parameter knobs.
- You can use up to six effects simultaneously, and the pedal comes with 30 preset patches ready for immediate use. You can also create and store up to 50 original patches.
- The MS-50G offers 55 effects types, including 47 stomp box effects and 8 amp models. You can use any combination of effects, and the pedal allows you to arrange them in any order you like.
Cons
- The pedal doesn’t come with an AC adapter, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you don’t want to use batteries.
- While the amp modeling is quite good, it’s not as versatile as a dedicated amp modeler.
- The MS-50G doesn’t have a looper function, which some guitarists might miss.
The pedal is easy to use, and the interface is intuitive and well-designed. The modulation, reverb, and delay sounds fantastic. The MS-50G also offers a tap tempo function and an integrated auto-chromatic tuner, both of which are useful features.
The all-metal enclosure feels solid and durable, and we appreciated the pedal’s compact size. Being able to play multiple effects at one time is killer. It’s a great addition to any pedalboard, saving a lot of space and it can help you expand your system’s effects and modeling capabilities while decreasing the size and complexity of your setup.
Zoom G3Xn Guitar Multi-Effects Processor
Pros
- The G3Xn offers an impressive range of 70+ high-quality digital effects, including distortion, overdrive, EQ, compression, delay, reverb, flanging, phasing, and chorusing.
- With 5 amp emulators, 5 cabinet emulators, and 75 custom-designed factory patches, this pedal allows you to create a wide variety of sounds and tones.
- The ability to use up to 7 effects/amps/cabinets simultaneously, chained together in any order, gives you the flexibility to experiment and find your perfect sound.
Cons
- While the built-in expression pedal is a nice touch, it can be a bit finicky and take some getting used to.
- The looper function is limited to 80 seconds of phrase recording, which may not be enough for some musicians.
- The G3Xn is a bit on the heavier side, weighing in at 4 pounds.
The range of effects and amp/cabinet emulators is impressive and allows us to create a wide variety of sounds. The ability to use up to 7 effects simultaneously is a great feature that gives us a lot of flexibility to experiment and find our perfect sound. The ability to use up to 7 effects simultaneously makes this pedal is a great choice for musicians who want to experiment with effects.
Line 6 M5 Stompbox Modeler
Pros
- The Line 6 M5 Stompbox Modeler offers a wide range of effects, including distortions, reverbs, delays, and modulations, all of which sound great.
- The pedal is easy to use, with a simple interface and intuitive controls.
- The Line 6 M5 Stompbox Modeler is built to last, with a sturdy metal construction that can withstand heavy use.
Cons
- The Line 6 M5 Stompbox Modeler only allows you to use one effect at a time, which can be limiting for some users.
- Some users may find the digital sound of the Line 6 M5 Stompbox Modeler to be less warm and organic than analog pedals.
- The Line 6 M5 Stompbox Modeler is relatively heavy, which may be an issue for users who need a lightweight setup.
This is actually what I have on my pedalboard. I normally don’t use multiple effects, so I find this is just easy to dial in when I need something like rotary, delay, chorus or other effects that I don’t use that often.
The main reason is that Line 6 M5 Stompbox Modeler’s sound quality, which is on par with more expensive pedals. It has similar models to the bigger (more expensive) Line 6 M9, which is still used by session musicians. If you want quality sounding effects, then this is the one I recommend.
Multi Effects Pedals Under $200 – Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best multi-effects pedal, there are several key features to consider. We’ve put together a guide to help you make an informed decision.
Type of Effects
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a multi-effects pedal is the range of effects it offers. Look for a pedal that includes all the effects you need, such as distortion, delay, reverb, chorus, and more. Some pedals offer hundreds of effects, while others have a more limited selection. Consider what you need for your playing style and choose a pedal that meets those needs.
Mutiple Effects at One Time
A lot of guitar players want to use one pedal for the delay, reverb, chorus and other modulation. Some of the pedals listed above are designed to use only 1 effect at a time while others can use 2 to 6 effects at a time.
Ease of Use
Another important factor to consider is ease of use. Look for a pedal with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate between effects and adjust settings. Some pedals have a simple layout with a few knobs, while others have a more complex interface with digital screens and menus. Choose a pedal that you feel comfortable using and that meets your needs.
Durability
Durability is also an important consideration. Look for a pedal that is built to last and can withstand the rigors of touring and regular use. Many pedals are made with metal casings that can withstand bumps and scratches, but some are made with plastic. Consider the build quality of the pedal and choose one that will last for years to come.
Compatibility
Make sure the pedal is compatible with your setup. Some pedals require specific power supplies or cables, while others can be powered by batteries. Consider how you will be using the pedal and make sure it will work with your current setup.
Price
With amp modeling being so popular, these multi effects pedals can get expensive. Also, you may find that you don’t use it a lot so investing in a super-expensive pedal may not be necessary.
This list should give you some great ideas on multi effects pedals under $200 that are worth trying to experiment with some cool effects. We live in an amazing time where this technology is cheap enough to find the sound you are looking for!
