Should You Invest in a Multi Effects Pedal?

 

Believe it or not, one of the most controversial pieces of sound equipment is the guitar multi effects pedal. Some musicians will only use individual guitar effect pedals, while others swear by their multi effects.

Like all things, there are pros and cons. To help you make a more informed choice about your gear, here’s a brief outline of the debate.

Pros.

Guitar multi effects pedals have some really great advantages, but it all boils down to efficiency. First and perhaps most obvious, they’re cost efficient. Buying one guitar multi effects pedal is naturally going to be the more affordable than buying several analogue stomp boxes. Secondly, they’re spatially efficient. Instead of having to carry around clunky analogue pedals, you have all your effects wrapped up into one, neat package. Thirdly, they use a lot less power. Why carry around all of those adapters and spare batteries when you can just plug in one unit?

Cons.

One of the main issues musicians have with guitar multi effects pedals is that it’s like putting all your eggs in one basket. If it breaks mid show, you’re going to be left without any other effects. Secondly, they’re not quite as versatile. Many artists like to turn certain effects on and off mid song for dramatic effect, which is a tough trick to pull off with guitar multi effects pedals.

If you’re looking to get the biggest bang for your buck, you’re going to want to a multi effects pedal. However, you may be better off in the long run if you assemble guitar pedal kits from individual stomp boxes, instead.

If you have any questions about what type of sound equipment might make a better investment, please feel free to ask in the comments.