The ultimate 80’s classic – chorus pedals. If you don’t know what it is or what it does, put on “Smells Like Teen Spirit” or “Come as You Are” by Nirvana. Hear the solo? That’s the chorus effect. It is created by the delay line, which splits the guitar signal and blends the ‘dry’ & ‘wet’ bits together creating thicker, glassy, more spacious tones. As a rock player, I always keep chorus as one of my go to on the pedalboard. It adds so much character to any tune – try playing Nirvana without it. It will be so boring. If you don’t know where to start and what to choose from the best chorus pedals for guitar – I got you covered.
Best Chorus Pedals 2021 – Reviews and Top Picks
- Electro-Harmonix Small Clone Chorus Pedal
- Pedal Type: Analog Chorus
- Controls: Depth, Rate
- Bypass: True Bypass
- Power requirement: 9V Power Supply, 9V battery
- Sockets: Input, Output, Power
- MXR M234 Analog Chorus Pedal with 4 Free Cables!
- Pedal Type: Analog Chorus
- Controls: Low, High, Level, Rate, Depth
- Bypass: True Bypass
- Power requirement: 9V Power Supply, 9V battery
- Sockets: Input, Output, Thru, Power
- Walrus Audio Julia
- Pedal Type: All-Analog chorus/vibrato pedal
- Controls: Rate, Depth, Lag, Dry-Chorus-Vibrato blend
- Bypass: True Bypass
- Power requirement: –
- Sockets: Input, Output, Power
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If there is one fact that proves this pedal is amazing, listen to “Come as You Are” by Nirvana. Any more questions? Good. This is one of the best chorus pedals for guitar, it is full of personality, yet it has a very simple set up: sturdy metal casing, a True Bypass, one control knob, one 2-way switch, a master on/off foot-switch, Input & Output jacks, and a handy LED meter. What makes it special is the sound and tone effect quality: shimmery, lush, vibey and distorted tones.
We like
The EHX Small Clode pedal is usually associated with the Nirvana sound, which is, let’s be honest, legendary. And if you want you will surely be able to replicate it. But there is so much more you can take from it! It’s suitable for most rock genres. The analog circuit creates lush, dimensional, spacey & bright tones. It’s super simple, straightforward and relatively cheap, but you’ll be blown away by its quality.
we dont like
The pedal lacks diversity when it comes to available options and controls.
PROS
“Kurt Cobain” chorus pedal
Classic chorus tone effect quality
Simple but amazing quality
Price
Cons
Lack of versatility
MXR is one of three legendary chorus pedal brands and they’ve earned this title by creating sick, heavy-duty, clean-toned chorus pedals. M234 is one of the best examples of this product line, but it’s not a normal MXR. It’s an all analog pedal with old-school Bucket Brigade electronics. It also has a more complicated control set up, while other MXRs are as simple as ABC. Among the classic analog ones, this is hands down the best chorus pedal for guitars.
We like
First, this is a completely analog chorus with true classic Bucket Brigade electronics which gives you classy, warm, liquid tones. But that’s not all, versatile controls and additional RQ knobs add a huge variety of effects and options, allows you to have complete control of your tone, shifting it from as little as a halftone, to an all-out ensemble sound.
we dont like
The tone gets lower if the effects loop is on
PROS
Completely analog
Maximum amount of controls
Bucket Brigade Electronics
Classy chorus & warm, liquid tones
Cons
Tone gets lower when effects loop is on
Walrus Audio is an up and coming brand in the music industry, focusing on creating versatile and functional pedals that are ideal for jamming and creative expression. ‘Julia’ is a perfect example of that with its fully analog electronics, a wide range of controls (including Walrus specialty ‘Lag Control’) and a Dry-Chorus-Vibrato (DCV) Blend.
We like
‘Julia’s” design screams that it’s not your average chorus pedal. Yet, a pretty picture on the surface is just a cherry on the top of this versatile monster. The DCV Blend allows you to mix these three elements with top-notch precision, creating a whole new range of sounds and tones. A wide range of controls (there are six function knobs!) adds more to the unparalleled manipulation of the DCV. Lag option, in particular, allows you to alter the delay time of the effect modulation kicking in. There is so much more room for creativity; it’s worth every penny.
we dont like
It does get a bit noisy sometimes, so be careful when setting it up in order to avoid that. It is also not so cheap. Though I’d say it’s still a small price for such a superb product.
PROS
Wicked design
Dry-Chorus-Vibrato Blend
Special Walrus Audio “Lag Control”
Versatility
Ultra-fine manipulation
Cons
A bit noisy
Pricey
Boss has been making exceptional pedals since the late 1970s. In 2016, to celebrate the brand’s anniversary, Boss released an upgraded version of the original CE-2, reviving the original analog sound in the CE-2W Waza Craft special edition series. The pedal does not only recreate the classic stereo chorus sound of CE-1, but it also adds chorus depth and sounds. Premium all-analog circuitry equipped with Bucked Brigade (BBD) delay line, brings expectational tone and response.
We like
The CE-2W presents the best of two worlds: vintage and modern. For the vintage part: the standard mode reproduces the classic CE-2 chorus sound effects, while the CE-1 replicates vintage chorus and vibrato. Yet, this pedal enhances all of the above and adds precise effect adjustment with a wider range of controls. By introducing the BBD technology, the sound quality rocketed to an unreachable height with thick depth and vintage modulation effects. The coolest part though is that the CE-2W is the first pedal that makes the classic soft modulated tone available in stereo.
we dont like
Be ready to turn out your pockets, as the pedal costs almost $200. Quality is usually costly after all.
PROS
Modern take on the classic Boss CE-2W
Legendary BBD tones
Versatility
Cons
Pricey
Remember the EHX Small Clone? Here is its little brother (clone) ‘Neo’. As soon as you start playing, the Matrix will have you. Not really, but it does take you to the world of Nirvana. EHX Neo has a similar set up to the EHX Small Clone, but has a couple of tweaks here and there, and is way cheaper.
We like
EHX Neo duplicates the controls and chorus effect of the EHX Small Clone, which means you get the legendary, “seasick” Kurt Cobain vibrato tone. You get just as much depth, the richness of tones and shimmering sound. But in comparison to a Small Clone, the sound quality has been greatly improved, and the control accuracy is much higher. Yet, it is all packed in a tiny body, which easily fits into any travel bag.
we dont like
Just like the EHX Small Clone, this one lacks the versatility of sound effects.
PROS
Classic EHX & ‘Kurt Cobain’ sound
Enhanced sonic quality and manipulation accuracy
Compact size
Cons
Lacks the versatility
Back in 1976, Boss launched not only it’s very first pedal, but the very first chorus effect pedal ever. Since then Boss pedals became a legend and hold the highest quality standards. CH-1 is obviously not an exception, but it does stand out from the majority of the Boss product line, as it’s a digital chorus pedal. Yes, not analog, but this is allegedly the best-selling chorus on the planet, so don’t let the digitalization scare you off.
We like
Boss CH-1 gives you top-notch quality of the sound and incredible versatility. With classic four control knobs (Level, EQ, Rate, and Depth) set up, you get a huge variety of settings and serious accuracy. Digital circuitry may lack the warmth of the analog but it gives more sound accuracy and clarity. The chorus also has extra stereo output, which allows you to split the pedal output over multiple amps.
we dont like
The sound effect doesn’t have as much warmth, lush and shimmer as the analog.
PROS
Exceptional sound quality
Digital circuitry
Bulletproof build
Mono/Stereo Output
Cons
Lack the warmth of the sound
Obviously, Fender is, first and foremost, a guitar brand, but it also produces accessories and does it well. For all you Strat fans who won’t get their hands on every piece of Fender gear – you won’t be disappointed, as the pedal sufficiently enhances the sound and adds flavor to the tones. It has analog circuitry, three control knobs (Depth, Speed, Mix), Single Input and Dual Outputs (Mono / Stereo).
We like
The pedal comes with the Fender high-standard quality. The chorus delivers a wide range of doubling effects, from subtle to rich and thick tones. It may not have as many control manipulation, but it’s for sure more versatile than many. The set-up is straightforward but bulletproof and has 0 noise or buzz. Awesome quality for the price.
we dont like
There is not much versatility to the sound effects. The set-up is rather standard, it’s bulletproof and has great quality, but there is nothing new.
PROS
By Fender
Doubling effects & Sound quality
Budget friendly
Cons
Lacks sound variety
Standard build
MXR is great at what they do, even when it’s sized for the Ant-man. The solid bulletproof body has an old school set up, including analog circuitry, bucket brigade technology, one control knob (Rate) and a True Bypass all in this tiny body! Due to its simplicity, I’d recommend this option for those who are just starting off in the guitar world.
We like
It’s surprising how much power this little monster contains. When considering its size, a single control knob, the corresponding output is exceptional. The microbody has both BBD technology and the True Bypass! One control knob makes it extremely easy to use. The pedal adds a layer of warmth and shimmer, alongside a bitey resonant effect at the high ends.
we dont like
The pedal has a tendency to produce some unwanted noise and hissing. It also doesn’t have much versatility.
PROS
Ultra simple to use
Micro format
BBD technology & True bypass
Cons
Noisy
Lacks the versatility
Ibanez isn’t the most popular brand when it comes to chorus pedals, it’s a guitar producer after all. But Ibanez has killed it with this mini version, creating the best chorus pedal for guitars among the mini formats. A 100$ analog circuitry, with Bucket brigade delay, True Bypass, and three control knobs (Speed, Depth, Level) create an incredibly versatile mini pedal.
We like
Just like the MXR M148, this Ibanes Chorus includes a lot of cool features in its tiny body. The pedal is all-analog which maintains the guitar’s tonal essence while adding warm overtones. BBD and the three-control set up offer more versatility than any other mini pedal.
we dont like
You may notice some noise when using it at high gains
PROS
All-analog
BBD & True Bypass
Versatility of sound effects
Compact size
Cons
Gets noisy
If you are just starting out and looking for something cheap, simple, but also functional – you’ve got a winner – Donner Tutti Love (not, it’s not ice cream). For only $30 you get a mini-pedal with an analog chorus, 3 control knobs (Level, Depth, Rate), LED indicator, HQ pedal, and a True Bypass. Like what else do you want for this price?
We like
Donner Tutti Loves offers a variety of control options, especially given its low price. The pedal offers clear, gentle and warm sound effects. It’s also equipped with the True Bypass (which works flawlessly) and the LED indicator.
we dont like
The aluminum body isn’t the most premium material, but the pedal still looks solid. The sound quality is not perfect, but for the price, it’s more than you can ask for!
PROS
Budget friendly
Solid quality
Versatile Controls
True Bypass
Cons
Poor build quality
The Chorus Pedals: 101
The chorus pedals are one of the most popular in the music worlds and, some might say, essential pedals in the rock genre. They were a music staple back in the 1980s, but they are still widely applied in most modern rock subgenres, especially in progressive, alternative & indie rock, grunge; but also in jazz and modern pop. Why you might ask?
Well, essentially, it adds depth to the sound and tones, and can also make the signal of one guitar sound like there are 2 or 3 instruments playing simultaneously. If the chorus pedal is powerful enough and is set up properly, of course. The delay line of the chorus creates a shimmering, juicy and syrupy tone effect from the analog circuits; and sharp, clear and glassy tones from the digital circuits.
How Does the Chorus Effect Work?
As you now know, the chorus effect thickens the guitar signal, adds spaciousness and character. How does it do this? Well, essentially, the chorus splits the guitar signal into ‘dry’ (original) & ‘wet’ (duplicated and modified) signals. By splitting the sound, it adds short delays and tone variations. The signal is then blended back together, creating a spacious, thick sound. Acoustically, it sounds like the signal is running through the amps with a tiny little delay between them.
Chorus, as a modulation effect pedal, is usually placed at the end of the signal chain – right before the amplifier. You can also connect it to two amps simultaneously (if the pedal has two outputs) to intensify the modulation effect. As with any other pedal, the chorus effect is manipulated through the control knobs. The more controls you get, the more versatile the chorus pedal is; as you get more room for the modifications, mixing, jamming and all that. It also means you get more precise control over the chorus effect.
Is a Chorus Pedal Necessary?
As with everything in music (ok, mostly everything) it depends purely on the music genre you are playing. If you are a blues or country musician, there is no need for a spacious, shimmering sound. Yet, if you are into rock, indie or pop, or simply play multiple genres and want to add some spice to your practice – do get one. It adds character to your music and helps to shape your unique sound. Start with the die-hard analog classics like MXR M234 or Boss CH-1 to see if the chorus pedal suits your musical style.
What Applications Are Most Suitable for Chorus Effect?
Even though chorus does sound like a really interesting addition to your music, it doesn’t necessarily mean you should use it at all times. There are a couple of tricks to keep in mind when you are setting up a signal chain:
- Chorus with a Clean Channel – using your chorus on a clean channel does wonders. It’s maybe the simplest amp channel, but it allows you to take most of the chorus as the signal is less affected by the amp itself. You can play more with the controls and you also have more room for creativity.
- Chorus with Distortion/Overdrive – mixing distortion and chorus together might sound like overkill, but you’ll be surprised how well it works during solos! Blending these two in the main section will mess up the overall sound of the band, but a little bit of chorus effect on the distorted channel will give extra character and help your part to stand out.
- Transparent Chorus Pedals – too much chorus effect can ruin your sound just as easily as a bad guitar build or crappy bridge. Yet, transparent chorus pedals help to avoid this problem, as their effect on tones is barely noticeable. It doesn’t mean that the effect isn’t noticeable, but that your tone isn’t damaged. Analog pedals are the most transparent ones, as they keep a continuous signal and don’t jeopardize the tone.
Analog VS Digital
The debate between analog and digital chorus is as heated as the one between the Floyd Rose Bridge or a True Bypass. Yet, it all comes down to personal preference. If you really want to know what it’s all about, I’ll give you two explanations, technical and a normal one.
First, the main difference is that analog is a continuous sound signal, while a digital signal represents sound as a sequence of individual discrete values. Basically, the analog sound remains intact through the pedal, the digital samples, and the original guitar signal, creating a discontinuous presentation.
What’s really happening (or what we should care about) is the way it affects the sound. Analog sound is warmer, more natural, and smooth. The digital chorus has this unnatural, mad-man overdrive. However, more precision comes with the digital pedals, as they allow for more accuracy and control precision.
Basic Control Knobs/Settings
There are a number of different control knobs and as some basically mean the same thing, it’s easy to get confused. Especially, because each pedal has a different control knob configuration. Here are the most common ones:
- Rate // Speed – controls the speed and type of signal modulation (also one of the most popular knobs on chorus pedals)
- Width // Depth – controls the amount of chorus effect. The higher the setting is, the more noticeable the effect
- EQ – for boosting or cutting treble frequencies
- Lag (a specialty of Walrus Audio) – allows you to modify the delay time the effect modulates from. It is needed for extra-fine tuning
- Level/mix – offers extra precision as it allows for a set amount of choruses coming thru the output
Conclusion
Chorus pedals are one of the most interesting effect modulation pedals on the market. They can turn the driest, flat guitar tone into something colorful and juicy – if you use it appropriately. Choose a digital pedal like Boss CH-1 if you are a progressive/alternative rock player and need some extra sharp overdriven tones. If you are looking for an ultimate classic, get the EHX Small Clone which will take you to the world of Nirvana. But if you are as obsessed with music as I am, get yourself Walrus Audio Julia – a high-end, versatile beast which will take your music to a parallel reality.
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