Best Synth Pedals For Guitar (2024 Updated)

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As a guitar player, you may be looking for a way to incorporate unique and experimental sounds into your playing. One way to achieve this is by using a synth pedal. Synth pedals can be a great addition to your guitar pedalboard, but with so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your needs. Here are five key points to consider when looking for the best synth pedals for guitar.

1. Sound Quality: The sound quality of a synth pedal is crucial. Look for a pedal that produces clear, high-quality sounds that are consistent across different settings.

2. Versatility: A versatile synth pedal will allow you to create a wide range of sounds, from classic synth tones to more modern and experimental sounds.

3. Ease of Use: A good synth pedal should be easy to use, with intuitive controls that allow you to quickly dial in the sound you want.

4. Durability: Look for a pedal that is built to last. A sturdy, well-built pedal will be able to withstand the rigors of gigging and touring.

5. Price: Synth pedals can range in price from affordable to quite expensive. Consider your budget when looking for a synth pedal, but don't sacrifice quality for a lower price.

By considering these key points, you can find the best synth pedal for your guitar playing needs. Whether you're looking for a classic synth sound or something more experimental, a good synth pedal can help you take your playing to the next level.

10 Best Synth Pedals For Guitar

1. Boss Sy-1 Guitar Synthesizer Pedal

The Boss SY-1 Guitar Synthesizer Pedal is a powerful tool that allows guitar and bass players to expand their sonic palette by adding polyphonic synthesizer effects to their sound. With its versatile expression/switch input and send/return loop, this pedal is designed to provide musicians with a seamless and intuitive experience.

The SY-1 pedal is a high-quality synthesizer that is capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from classic analog synth tones to cutting-edge digital textures. Thanks to its polyphonic design, it can generate multiple notes at once, allowing guitarists and bassists to create complex, layered sounds with ease.

One of the standout features of the Boss SY-1 pedal is its expression/switch input. This allows players to control various parameters of the synthesizer effects in real-time, giving them the ability to shape and manipulate their sound on the fly. Whether you want to add a subtle modulation effect or create a dramatic, sweeping filter effect, the expression/switch input gives you the flexibility to do so with precision and ease.

Another key feature of the SY-1 pedal is the send/return loop. This allows players to integrate other effects pedals into their signal chain, such as delay or reverb pedals, and process the synthesizer effects through them. This can add a new level of depth and complexity to your sound, allowing you to create rich, layered textures that are both dynamic and expressive.

Overall, the Boss SY-1 Guitar Synthesizer Pedal is a powerful and versatile tool that is designed to expand the sonic possibilities of guitar and bass players. Its polyphonic synthesizer effects, expression/switch input, and send/return loop provide musicians with a wide range of creative options, allowing them to explore new sounds and textures that were previously unavailable. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a beginner looking to take your playing to the next level, the Boss SY-1 pedal is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to push the boundaries of what is possible with guitar and bass.

2. Mooer E7 Mini Synth Pedal With 7 Polyphonic Guitar Synth Tones And Arpeggiator, 7 Preset Slots

The MOOER E7 Polyphonic Guitar Synth Mini Synth Pedal is a compact and versatile synthesizer that allows guitarists to explore a range of electronic sounds and create their own unique tones. With 7 different MOOER custom synthesizer tones to choose from, including Trumpet, Organ, Sea wave, Weeyo, Saw wave, 8bits, EDM, and Pad, users can easily adjust the synth tones to their liking.

The E7 features 7 LED indicators on the right side of the shell, making it easy to use and navigate. The pedal is powered by a 9V DC power supply, which is recommended for optimal performance.

One of the standout features of the E7 is its decent tracking, which allows users to transform their guitar into a typical electronic synthesizer without the need for special pickups or instrument modifications. The pedal also features 7 slots for storing users' presets, giving them the ability to save and recall their favorite settings.

Each tone on the E7 comes with an individual arpeggiator, high/low frequency cut, attack, and speed function, allowing users to shape the tone in their mind with ease. The adjustable speed of the arpeggiator adds another layer of creativity, giving users the ability to experiment with different rhythms and textures.

The MOOER E7 Polyphonic Guitar Synth Mini Synth Pedal is perfect for guitarists who want to explore new sounds and push the boundaries of their instrument. With its versatile synthesizer tones and user-friendly interface, the E7 is sure to inspire creativity and experimentation.

3. The Mooer Ge300 Is A Flagship Guitar Multi-Effects Pedal With Amp Modeling, Synth Capabilities, And Recording/live Performance Features.

The MOOER GE300 Amp Modelling, Multi Effects, Guitar Synth Pedal is a flagship multi effects instruments processor designed for guitar recording, stage live shows, and home studio use. It comes equipped with dual-DSP processors that deliver detailed characteristics of every delay, reverb, modulation, or amp model. With an intuitive and simple user interface, controls, and connection ports, the GE300 is an all-in-one working station for musicians.

The GE300 features 43 IR-based factory speaker cab models, 164 high-quality effects, and 255 preset banks to store all your favorite tone settings. The programmable FX loop with optional signal chain routing and MIDI IN/MIDI OUT/THRU with easy mapping and external control switching allows musicians to control their other pedals and amps with ease.

One of the standout features of the GE300 is its 108 digital amp models that utilize MOOER’s non-linear amp modeling technology. Each model has been designed based on samples taken directly from real-life tube amplifiers, providing not only an accurate recurrence of the original amps’ tone but also the dynamics and feel of a real tube amp.

The GE300 also includes a tri-voice polyphonic synthesizer module, which transforms your instrument into an electronic synthesizer without the need for special pickups or instrument modifications. This allows musicians to spark their creativity with more possibilities and explore new sonic territory.

The pedal also includes a 30-minute capacity loop station with undo/redo, direct dubbing, reverse + 1/2 time effects. Looper sessions can be stored and backed up for import/export of audio files, allowing musicians to recall new song ideas or load in their favorite backing tracks to jam along with. The programmable footswitches with user-selectable LED colors and assignable functions allow complete user customization of the control scheme.

Overall, the MOOER GE300 Amp Modelling, Multi Effects, Guitar Synth Pedal is a versatile and powerful tool for guitarists, offering a wide range of effects, amp models, and synth capabilities. Its user-friendly interface and programmable footswitches make it ideal for use on stage, in the studio, or at home.

4. Keeley Synth-1 Reverse Attack Fuzz Wave Generator Pedal, Gray (Ksynth1)

The Keeley Synth-1 Reverse Attack Fuzz Wave Generator Pedal, Gray (KSynth1) is a versatile and innovative tool for guitarists and musicians looking to expand their sonic palette. This pedal offers a range of features that allow users to create fuzzed-out, single note synth sounds, as well as volume swell effects and other unique tonal options.

One of the key features of the Synth-1 is its ability to generate synth-like sounds from a guitar signal. This is achieved through a combination of fuzz and filtering, which allows users to shape the EQ and tone of the resulting wave. The pedal also includes a Wave Selector, which allows users to change wave modes on the fly with their foot, making it easy to experiment with different sounds and textures.

Another standout feature of the Synth-1 is its Reverse Attack mode, which enables a volume swell effect that can put the guitar in slow gear. This creates a unique and expressive sound that can add depth and dimension to any performance. Additionally, the Chaos Switch allows users to change dimensional triggering and octaves, adding further flexibility and control over the resulting sound.

Overall, the Keeley Synth-1 Reverse Attack Fuzz Wave Generator Pedal is an excellent choice for guitarists and musicians looking to push the boundaries of their sound. With its wide range of features and intuitive design, this pedal is sure to inspire creativity and experimentation in any musical setting.

5. Sonicake Bitcrusher Pedal For Guitar With True Bypass – Reduces Digital Signal To Lo-Fi Synth Sounds.

The SONICAKE Bitcrusher Guitar Pedal Wave Crush Bitcrush Digital Bitcrusher Reducer Guitar Effects Pedal Synth Synthesizer LoFi True Bypass is a high-quality effects pedal designed for guitarists who want to explore new and unique sounds. This compact bitcrusher/sample rate reducer features a variable, flexible, and sweet-sounding digital downsampler that can help you achieve a range of different tones and textures.

One of the key features of this bitcrusher pedal is its 3-mode LoFi tone shaping capability. You can choose from Radio Simulator, Normal Mode, and Vintage Gramophone Simulator modes to create unique and interesting sounds with your guitar. Whether you're looking to add some grit and distortion to your playing or create a hauntingly beautiful soundscape, this pedal has you covered.

The sampling rate of the SONICAKE Bitcrusher Guitar Pedal Wave Crush Bitcrush Digital Bitcrusher Reducer Guitar Effects Pedal Synth Synthesizer LoFi True Bypass ranges from 750 to 44100Hz, while the bit depth can be adjusted from 5 to 16 bits. This gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of the types of sounds you can create with this pedal. Whether you want to create a lo-fi, vintage sound or something more modern and cutting-edge, this pedal has the tools you need to make it happen.

In terms of construction, the SONICAKE Bitcrusher Guitar Pedal Wave Crush Bitcrush Digital Bitcrusher Reducer Guitar Effects Pedal Synth Synthesizer LoFi True Bypass is built to last. It features a true bypass footswitch that keeps the signal path clean and free of any unwanted noise or interference. Additionally, the pedal is designed to work with a 9V center negative regular pedal power supply (not included), making it easy to integrate into your existing pedalboard setup.

Overall, the SONICAKE Bitcrusher Guitar Pedal Wave Crush Bitcrush Digital Bitcrusher Reducer Guitar Effects Pedal Synth Synthesizer LoFi True Bypass is a versatile and powerful effects pedal that is perfect for guitarists who want to push the boundaries of what's possible with their instrument. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this pedal is sure to inspire you to explore new and exciting sounds.

6. Pigtronix Space Rip Synth Pedal

The Pigtronix Space Rip Synth Pedal is a versatile and powerful effects pedal designed for guitarists and musicians who want to add unique synth sounds to their performances. This pedal is designed to create a wide variety of synth sounds by manipulating the input signal and creating complex waveforms.

One of the key features of the Space Rip Synth Pedal is the Rate control. This control allows the user to adjust the speed of the waveform's motion, which in turn affects the pulse width of the waveforms. The onboard Voltage Controlled Oscillator (VCO) is kept in a state of flux, which produces a constantly shifting and evolving sound.

The Tune control is another important feature of this pedal. It allows the user to fine-tune the synth voices to match the key of the song or to create unique and dissonant sounds. The Sub control adds an additional voice one octave down from the input signal, while the Octave control drops the entire synth sound down an additional octave.

The Shape control is a unique feature that allows the user to change the waveform from a sawtooth to a square wave, or vice versa. This can dramatically alter the sound of the synth and create new and interesting textures.

Overall, the Pigtronix Space Rip Synth Pedal is a powerful and versatile effects pedal that can add a wide variety of unique and interesting synth sounds to a musician's repertoire. With its intuitive controls and advanced features, this pedal is a must-have for any guitarist or musician looking to expand their sonic horizons.

7. Valeton Ep-2 Passive Volume & Expression Pedal For Guitar, Bass, Keyboard, Synth, And Workstation.

The VALETON EP-2 Passive Volume & Expression Guitar Bass Keyboard Synth Synthesizer Workstation EXP Pedal is a versatile and user-friendly accessory that allows musicians to control their volume and expression with ease. This compact and lightweight pedal is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of musical instruments, including guitars, bass, keyboards, synthesizers, workstations, and controllers.

The EP-2 pedal features two functions in one unit, allowing users to switch between volume control and expression control with ease. The pedal automatically detects the functionality, so users can focus on playing music without worrying about adjusting the settings manually.

One of the key benefits of the VALETON EP-2 pedal is that it operates passively, meaning it does not require a battery or pedal power supply to function. This makes it an ideal accessory for musicians who value portability and convenience. The compact and lightweight design of the pedal also makes it easy to take anywhere, whether you are performing on stage or practicing at home.

The VALETON EP-2 pedal is built to last, with a durable and robust construction that is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. The pedal is also incredibly easy to use, with a simple and intuitive interface that allows users to adjust the volume or expression control quickly and accurately.

Overall, the VALETON EP-2 Passive Volume & Expression Guitar Bass Keyboard Synth Synthesizer Workstation EXP Pedal is a highly recommended accessory for musicians who are looking for a versatile and user-friendly way to control their volume and expression. With its compact and lightweight design, passive operation, and intuitive interface, this pedal is sure to be a valuable addition to any musician's gear collection.

8. The T-Rex Quint-Machine Pitch Pedal Offers Adjustable Octave And Fifth Controls For Organ, Synth, Or 12-String Sounds.

The T-Rex Engineering QUINT-MACHINE Pitch Guitar Effects Pedal is a versatile and innovative tool for guitarists looking to enhance their sound. This pedal offers three different, highly tunable tones – octave up, octave down, and 5th up – which can be adjusted individually and mixed with a clean signal for a customized effect.

The +1 Octave feature adds a note that is one octave higher than the note being played, while the -1 Octave feature adds a note that is one octave lower. The +1 Fifth feature adds a note that is a fifth higher than the note being played. These features allow for a range of creative possibilities and can help replicate the sound of an organ, synth, or 12-string guitar.

Each tone can be adjusted individually, allowing for precise tuning and customization of the effect. The ability to mix the effected sound with a clean signal also provides further flexibility in shaping the sound.

The QUINT-MACHINE Pitch Guitar Effects Pedal is built with high-quality components and durable construction, ensuring reliable performance and longevity. Its compact size and intuitive controls make it easy to incorporate into any guitar setup.

Overall, the T-Rex Engineering QUINT-MACHINE Pitch Guitar Effects Pedal is a powerful and versatile tool for guitarists looking to expand their sonic capabilities. With its fully adjustable octave up, octave down, and fifth up controls, this pedal allows for a range of creative possibilities and can help replicate the sound of other instruments. Its high-quality construction and intuitive controls make it a reliable and easy-to-use addition to any guitar setup.

Best Synth Pedals For Guitar FAQs

Are there any budget-friendly synth pedals that still provide high-quality sound?

Yes, there are several budget-friendly synth pedals that offer high-quality sound. One such example is the Electro-Harmonix Mono Synth pedal, which features 11 different synth sounds and adjustable filter and attack settings. Another option is the Behringer Synth pedal, which includes 11 different synth sounds, a built-in arpeggiator, and a range of adjustable parameters for customizing your sound. Additionally, the Zoom MS-70CDR MultiStomp pedal offers a variety of synth sounds along with a range of other effects, all in a compact and affordable package. Ultimately, there are many options available for those looking to experiment with synth sounds without breaking the bank, and with a little research, it's possible to find a pedal that suits your needs and budget.

Can I use a synth pedal with other effects pedals in my guitar rig?

Yes, you can definitely use a synth pedal with other effects pedals in your guitar rig. In fact, using a synth pedal with other pedals can create interesting and unique sounds that can add depth and texture to your playing.

When using a synth pedal with other effects pedals, it is important to consider the order in which you place them in your signal chain. Generally, it is recommended to place your synth pedal towards the end of your signal chain, after your distortion, modulation, and delay effects. This will ensure that your synth sound is not affected by the other effects pedals and will allow you to create a more cohesive sound.

Additionally, it is important to experiment with different combinations of effects pedals to find the right sound for your playing style. With practice and experimentation, you can create a unique sound that is all your own.

How do synth pedals enhance a guitarist's sound?

Synth pedals, also known as synthesizer pedals, enhance a guitarist's sound by adding unique and diverse sounds to their playing. These pedals can simulate the sounds of different instruments, such as pianos, organs, and even synths, allowing guitarists to expand their tonal range and create more complex arrangements.

Additionally, synth pedals can add special effects such as filter sweeps, delays, and modulation, which add depth and texture to a guitarist's sound. This is especially useful for guitarists looking to create experimental or avant-garde music.

Overall, synth pedals offer a wide range of sonic possibilities that can help guitarists achieve a more dynamic and versatile sound, making them an essential tool for any musician seeking to expand their creative horizons.

What are the top-rated synth pedals for guitar players?

Synth pedals are an excellent way to add new sounds and textures to a guitarist's arsenal. The top-rated synth pedals for guitar players include the Electro-Harmonix SYNTH9, which offers nine classic synth sounds and tracking technology for accurate performance. The Boss SY-1 Synthesizer offers 121 synth sounds with intuitive controls and a compact design. The Source Audio C4 Synth offers an extensive range of sounds and customization options with its four-voiced oscillator engine. The Meris Enzo Synth Pedal has a unique design that blends guitar and synth sounds seamlessly, with a versatile set of controls and effects. Finally, the Keeley Synth-1 offers a compact and affordable option with eight preset sounds and a fully customizable control set. Overall, these synth pedals offer a range of sounds and features that any guitarist can use to expand their sonic horizons.

What features should I look for in a synth pedal for guitar?

When looking for a synth pedal for guitar, there are several features to consider. Firstly, the type of synthesis technology used can greatly affect the sound and versatility of the pedal. Analog synths offer warm and organic tones, while digital synths offer more complex and precise sounds. Next, the range of sounds available and the ability to customize them is important. Look for pedals with a variety of presets and the ability to tweak parameters such as oscillator type, filter settings, and modulation options. Other features to consider include polyphony (the number of simultaneous notes the pedal can play), expression pedal compatibility, and MIDI connectivity for more advanced control options. Finally, the durability and reliability of the pedal should be considered, especially for live performance situations. Overall, a good synth pedal should offer a wide range of unique and customizable sounds while being user-friendly and reliable.

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