Which is the best guitar sustain pedal? The best guitar sustain pedal can make all the difference in your playing. It can help you create lush, ambient soundscapes, or add a touch of drama to your solos. But with so many different pedals on the market, it can be hard to know where to start.
Editor’s Note:The best guitar sustain pedal can help you take your playing to the next level. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s a sustain pedal out there that’s perfect for you.
To help you make the right decision, we’ve put together this guide to the best guitar sustain pedals. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from the different types of pedals to the features you should look for. So whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking to upgrade your current pedal, read on to find the best guitar sustain pedal for you.
Key Differences
| Feature | Option 1 | Option 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Momentary | Latching |
| Controls | Sustain, level | Sustain, level, decay |
| Price | $50-$100 | $100-$200 |
Main Article Topics
- Types of guitar sustain pedals
- Features to look for in a guitar sustain pedal
- The best guitar sustain pedals for different budgets
- How to use a guitar sustain pedal
1. Type
The type of guitar sustain pedal you choose will depend on your playing style and the sound you want to achieve. There are two main types of sustain pedals: momentary and latching.
Momentary pedals are the most common type of sustain pedal. They work by completing the circuit when you press down on the pedal, and breaking the circuit when you release it. This means that the sustain effect is only active while you are pressing down on the pedal.
Latching pedals, on the other hand, work by engaging the sustain effect when you press down on the pedal, and disengaging it when you press down on it again. This means that the sustain effect will remain active even after you release the pedal.
Momentary pedals are generally better for creating short, staccato sustain effects, while latching pedals are better for creating long, sustained notes. However, there is no hard and fast rule, and you can use either type of pedal to create a variety of different sounds.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of sustain pedal is right for you is to try out both types and see which one you prefer.
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Momentary |
|
|
| Latching |
|
|
2. Controls
The controls on a guitar sustain pedal allow you to adjust the amount of sustain, the level of the effect, and the decay time. These controls are essential for getting the sound you want from your pedal.
Sustain controls the amount of time that the note sustains after you release the pedal. A higher sustain setting will result in a longer sustain time. Level controls the volume of the effect. A higher level setting will result in a louder effect. Decay controls the rate at which the effect fades out. A higher decay setting will result in a slower fade out.
The best settings for these controls will vary depending on your playing style and the sound you want to achieve. However, a good starting point is to set the sustain control to around 50%, the level control to around 75%, and the decay control to around 25%.
Here are some examples of how you can use the controls on your sustain pedal to create different sounds:
- For a long, sustained note, set the sustain control to 100%, the level control to 100%, and the decay control to 0%.
- For a shorter, more staccato sustain, set the sustain control to 0%, the level control to 100%, and the decay control to 100%.
- For a subtle sustain effect, set the sustain control to 25%, the level control to 50%, and the decay control to 50%.
Experiment with the different controls on your sustain pedal to find the settings that work best for you.
| Control | Function | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Sustain | Controls the amount of time that the note sustains after you release the pedal. | A higher sustain setting will result in a longer sustain time. |
| Level | Controls the volume of the effect. | A higher level setting will result in a louder effect. |
| Decay | Controls the rate at which the effect fades out. | A higher decay setting will result in a slower fade out. |
3. Price
The price range of $50-$200 is a good place to start looking for a quality guitar sustain pedal. Pedals in this price range offer a good balance of features, sound quality, and durability. However, it is important to note that price is not always an indicator of quality. There are some great pedals available for less than $50, and there are also some overpriced pedals on the market. Do your research and read reviews before you buy a pedal.
- Features: Pedals in the $50-$200 price range typically offer a variety of features, such as sustain, level, and decay controls. Some pedals also offer additional features, such as a built-in tuner or a tap tempo switch.
- Sound quality: The sound quality of pedals in the $50-$200 price range is generally very good. These pedals are able to produce a clean, warm, and transparent sound.
- Durability: Pedals in the $50-$200 price range are typically made from durable materials, such as metal and rubber. These pedals are built to withstand the rigors of gigging and touring.
Overall, the $50-$200 price range is a good place to start looking for a quality guitar sustain pedal. Pedals in this price range offer a good balance of features, sound qu
ality, and durability. However, it is important to do your research and read reviews before you buy a pedal.
4. Features
When choosing the best guitar sustain pedal, it’s important to consider the features that are important to you. Two features that are commonly found on sustain pedals are true bypass and LED indicator.
- True bypass means that when the pedal is turned off, the signal from your guitar will pass through the pedal without being affected. This is important for preserving the tone of your guitar.
- LED indicator shows you when the pedal is turned on or off. This can be helpful in a live setting, so you can easily see if the pedal is active.
Both true bypass and LED indicator are useful features to have on a guitar sustain pedal. If you’re looking for a pedal that will give you the best possible sound quality and performance, then you should definitely consider a pedal with these features.
5. Sound quality
When it comes to choosing the best guitar sustain pedal, sound quality is one of the most important factors to consider. A good sustain pedal will produce a clean, warm, and transparent sound that will enhance your guitar tone without adding any unwanted noise or distortion.
- Clean: A clean sound is free of any unwanted noise or distortion. This is important for sustain pedals, as you want the pedal to enhance your guitar tone without adding any harshness or fizz.
- Warm: A warm sound is rich and full-bodied. This type of sound is ideal for sustain pedals, as it can add depth and character to your guitar tone.
- Transparent: A transparent sound is one that does not alter the natural tone of your guitar. This is important for sustain pedals, as you want the pedal to enhance your guitar tone without changing its fundamental character.
If you’re looking for a sustain pedal that will give you the best possible sound quality, then you should look for a pedal with a clean, warm, and transparent sound. These pedals will enhance your guitar tone without adding any unwanted noise or distortion, and they will help you create beautiful, sustained notes that will add depth and character to your playing.
6. Durability
When it comes to choosing the best guitar sustain pedal, durability is an important factor to consider. You want a pedal that will be able to withstand the rigors of gigging and touring, and that will last for many years to come. Metal construction and rubberized knobs are two features that can help to ensure the durability of your sustain pedal.
- Metal construction: Metal construction is more durable than plastic construction, and it is less likely to break or crack. This is important for sustain pedals, which are often subjected to heavy use.
- Rubberized knobs: Rubberized knobs are more durable than plastic knobs, and they are less likely to slip or break. This is important for sustain pedals, as the knobs are used to control the amount of sustain.
If you are looking for a sustain pedal that will be durable and long-lasting, then you should look for a pedal with metal construction and rubberized knobs. These features will help to ensure that your pedal will be able to withstand the rigors of gigging and touring, and that it will last for many years to come.
7. Ease of use
When choosing the best guitar sustain pedal, ease of use is an important factor to consider. You want a pedal that is easy to use, with simple controls and intuitive operation. This will allow you to focus on your playing, and not on trying to figure out how to use your pedal.
Pedals with simple controls are easier to use than pedals with complex controls. Complex controls can be confusing and difficult to remember, especially if you are not familiar with guitar pedals. Simple controls, on the other hand, are easy to understand and use, even for beginners. Intuitive operation means that the pedal is easy to use without having to read the manual. The controls should be laid out in a logical way, and the functions of the pedal should be easy to understand. This will allow you to get started using your pedal right away, without having to spend a lot of time learning how to use it.
Ease of use is an important factor to consider when choosing the best guitar sustain pedal. Pedals with simple controls and intuitive operation are easier to use, which will allow you to focus on your playing and not on trying to figure out how to use your pedal.
Here are some examples of guitar sustain pedals with simple controls and intuitive operation:
- Boss FV-500H
- Electro-Harmonix Nano Sustainer
- MXR M101 Phase 90
These pedals are all easy to use, with simple controls and intuitive operation. They are a great choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
8. Versatility
Versatility is an important factor to consider when choosing the best guitar sustain pedal. A versatile pedal can be used with both electric and acoustic guitars, giving you more flexibility in your playing. This is especially important if you play both types of guitars, or if you are not sure which type of guitar you will be playing in the future.
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a sustain pedal that can be used with both electric and acoustic guitars. First, you need to make sure that the pedal has a high enough input impedance. This is because acoustic guitars have a higher output impedance than electric guitars. If the pedal’s input impedance is too low, it will not be able to properly amplify the signal from your acoustic guitar.
Second, you need to make sure that the pedal has a low enough output impedance. This is because electric guitars have a lower input impedance than acoustic guitars. If the pedal’s output impedance is too high, it will not be able to properly drive the signal into your amplifier.
Finally, you need to make sure that the pedal has a wide enough frequency response. This is because acoustic guitars have a wider frequency range than electric guitars. If the pedal’s frequency response is too narrow, it will not be able to reproduce the full range of tones from your acoustic guitar.
If you keep these factors in mind, you should be able to find a sustain pedal that can be used with both electric and acoustic guitars. This will give you more flexibility in your playing, and it will allow you to get the most out of your pedals.
Here are some examples of sustain pedals that can be used with both electric and acoustic guitars:
| Brand | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Boss | FV-500H | $50-$100 |
| Electro-Harmonix | Nano Sustainer | $75-$125 |
| MXR | M101 Phase 90 | $100-$150 |
9. Compatibility
When choosing the best guitar sustain pedal, it is important to consider its compatibility with your amplifier. Not all sustain pedals are created equal, and some may not work well with certain amplifiers. This is especially true if you have a vintage or boutique amplifier.
To ensure that your sustain pedal will work with your amplifier, it is important to check the pedal’s specifications. The specifications will usually list the types of amplifiers that the pedal is compatible with. If your amplifier is not listed, it is best to contact the manufacturer of the pedal to confirm compatibility.
In general, most sustain pedals will work with most amplifiers. However, there are some exceptions. For example, some pedals may require a specific type of input, such as a high-impedance input. If your amplifier does not have the correct type of input, you may need to use a buffer or preamp to connect the pedal to your amplifier.
It is also important to consider the output impedance of your sustain pedal. The output impedance of a pedal is the amount of resistance that the pedal presents to the amplifier. If the output impedance of the pedal is too high, it can cause the sound of your guitar to be muffled or distorted. It is important to choose a sustain pedal with an output impedance that is compatible with your amplifier.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your sustain pedal will work properly with your amplifier. This will allow you to get the most out of your pedal and create beautiful, sustained notes that will add depth and character to your playing.
Here is a table that summarizes the key points discussed in this section:
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Compatibility with amplifiers | Ensures that the pedal will work properly with your amplifier and produce the desired sound. |
| Input impedance | The pedal’s input impedance must be compatible with the amplifier’s output impedance. |
| Output impedance | The pedal’s output impedance must be compatible with the amplifier’s input impedance. |
10. Brand
When it comes to guitar sustain pedals, there are a few brands that stand out from the rest: Boss, Electro-Harmonix, and MXR. These brands have been making high-quality pedals for decades, and their sustain pedals are some of the best in the business.
- Boss
Boss is a Japanese company that has been making guitar pedals since the 1970s. Their pedals are known for their reliability, durability, and great sound quality. The Boss FV-500H is a classic sustain pedal that has been used by countless guitarists over the years. It is a simple and straightforward pedal that does what it is supposed to do: sustain your notes.
Electro-Harmonix
Electro-Harmonix is an American company that has been making guitar pedals since the 1960s. Their pedals are known for their innovative designs and unique sounds. The Electro-Harmonix Nano Sustainer is a compact sustain pedal that offers a wide range of sustain and decay options. It is a great choice for guitarists who want a versatile sustain pedal that can be used for a variety of different sounds.
MXR
MXR is an American company that has been making guitar pedals since the 1970s. Their pedals are known for their great sound quality and durability. The MXR M101 Phase 90 is a classic phase shifter pedal that can also be used as a sustain pedal. It is a great choice for guitarists who want a sustain pedal with a unique sound.
Ultimately, the best guitar sustain pedal for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, if you are looking for a high-quality sustain pedal from a reputable brand, then you can’t go wrong with Boss, Electro-Harmonix, or MXR.
11. Reviews
Reading reviews from other guitarists is an important part of choosing the best guitar sustain pedal. Reviews can provide you with valuable insights into the sound quality, durability, and ease of use of different pedals. They can also help you identify any potential problems with a particular pedal before you buy it.
When reading reviews, it is important to keep in mind that everyone has different tastes and preferences. What one guitarist loves, another guitarist may hate. It is also important to consider the context of the review. For example, a review written by a professional guitarist who uses the pedal in a live setting may be more helpful than a review written by a beginner guitarist who has only used the pedal at home.
Despite these caveats, reading reviews from other guitarists can be a valuable way to learn more about different sustain pedals and make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Here are some tips for reading reviews from other guitarists:
- Read reviews from a variety of sources. This will help you get a well-rounded view of the pedal.
- Pay attention to the reviewer’s experience level and playing style. This will help you determine whether the review is relevant to your own needs.
- Read the reviews carefully and critically. Don’t just skim over them. Take the time to understand the reviewer’s opinion and why they feel the way they do.
- Use the reviews to help you make an informed decision. Don’t just buy the pedal because it has the most positive reviews. Consider all of the factors discussed in this article before making a decision.
By following these tips, you can use reviews from other guitarists to help you choose the best guitar sustain pedal for your needs.
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Reviews can provide you with valuable insights into the sound quality, durability, and ease of use of different pedals. | Reviews can help you identify any potential problems with a particular pedal before you buy it. |
| Reading reviews from other guitarists can be a valuable way to learn more about different sustain pedals and make an informed decision about which one is right for you. | Reviews can help you avoid making a bad decision and wasting your money. |
12. Warranty
When choosing the best guitar sustain pedal, it is important to consider the warranty. A good warranty will protect you in case the pedal breaks or malfunctions. This is especially important if you are planning on using the pedal in a live setting or if you are a professional musician.
- Peace of mind: A good warranty will give you peace of mind knowing that you are protected in case the pedal breaks. This can be especially important if you are planning on using the
pedal in a live setting or if you are a professional musician. - Replacement or repair: A good warranty will cover the cost of repairing or replacing the pedal if it breaks. This can save you a lot of money in the long run.
- Customer service: A good warranty will also include good customer service. This means that you will be able to get help from the manufacturer if you have any problems with the pedal.
When choosing a guitar sustain pedal, be sure to compare the warranties of different pedals. This will help you choose the pedal that is right for you and your needs.
FAQs about Guitar Sustain Pedals
Here are some frequently asked questions about guitar sustain pedals:
Question 1: What is a guitar sustain pedal?
A guitar sustain pedal is a device that allows you to sustain the notes you play on your guitar. This can be useful for creating a variety of different effects, such as long, sustained notes, feedback, and ambient soundscapes.
Question 2: How do guitar sustain pedals work?
Guitar sustain pedals work by increasing the amount of sustain in your guitar’s signal. This is done by using a feedback loop to create a continuous signal that sustains the note you are playing.
Question 3: What are the different types of guitar sustain pedals?
There are two main types of guitar sustain pedals: momentary and latching. Momentary pedals only sustain the note while you are pressing down on the pedal. Latching pedals sustain the note even after you release the pedal.
Question 4: What are the benefits of using a guitar sustain pedal?
There are many benefits to using a guitar sustain pedal, including:
- Increased sustain
- Feedback control
- Ambient soundscapes
Question 5: What are the disadvantages of using a guitar sustain pedal?
There are a few disadvantages to using a guitar sustain pedal, including:
- Can be difficult to control
- Can add noise to your signal
- May not be compatible with all amplifiers
Question 6: How do I choose the best guitar sustain pedal for me?
When choosing a guitar sustain pedal, there are a few things to consider, including:
- Type of pedal (momentary or latching)
- Features (such as decay and level controls)
- Price
- Brand
Summary of key takeaways or final thought:
Guitar sustain pedals can be a valuable tool for guitarists of all levels. By understanding the different types of pedals and how they work, you can choose the best pedal for your needs.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that you know more about guitar sustain pedals, you can start exploring different models and finding the one that’s right for you.
Tips for Choosing the Best Guitar Sustain Pedal
Guitar sustain pedals can be a valuable tool for guitarists of all levels. By following these tips, you can choose the best pedal for your needs and playing style.
Tip 1: Consider the type of pedal you need.
There are two main types of guitar sustain pedals: momentary and latching. Momentary pedals only sustain the note while you are pressing down on the pedal. Latching pedals sustain the note even after you release the pedal. Momentary pedals are generally better for creating short, staccato effects, while latching pedals are better for creating long, sustained notes.
Tip 2: Choose a pedal with the right features.
Some guitar sustain pedals have additional features, such as decay and level controls. Decay controls the amount of time that the note sustains after you release the pedal. Level controls the volume of the effect. Consider the features that are important to you when choosing a pedal.
Tip 3: Set the pedal to your desired settings.
Once you have chosen a pedal, it is important to set it to your desired settings. The settings will vary depending on the type of pedal you have and the sound you want to achieve. Experiment with the different settings until you find the sound that you like.
Tip 4: Practice using the pedal.
The best way to learn how to use a guitar sustain pedal is to practice. Experiment with different techniques and sounds. The more you practice, the better you will become at using the pedal.
Tip 5: Use the pedal to create different effects.
Guitar sustain pedals can be used to create a variety of different effects, such as long, sustained notes, feedback, and ambient soundscapes. Experiment with different techniques to find the sounds that you like.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
By following these tips, you can choose the best guitar sustain pedal for your needs and playing style. Guitar sustain pedals can be a valuable tool for guitarists of all levels, and they can be used to create a variety of different effects.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
Now that you know more about guitar sustain pedals, you can start exploring different models and finding the one that’s right for you.
Conclusion
The best guitar sustain pedal can make all the difference in your playing. It can help you create lush, ambient soundscapes, or add a touch of drama to your solos. In this article, we’ve explored the different types of guitar sustain pedals, the features you should look for, and the best pedals for different budgets. We’ve also provided tips on how to choose the best pedal for your needs and playing style.
Now that you know more about guitar sustain pedals, you can start exploring different models and finding the one that’s right for you. With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect pedal to help you take your playing to the next level.
