5 Guitar Pedals You Need

[@JeffStarr]

If you are looking to purchase music gear please contact Joe Schafer at Sweetwater. Joe is awesome and has helped me out a lot when researching gear and making my purchase decisions. Please let him know that I (Jeff Starr) sent you his way. www.sweetwater.com/joe_schafer

[@BillyRoebuck]

I heard a good tip that putting the looper first (or having two of them) is handy if you want to play something and then be able to tweak effects without having to play

[@JeffStarr]

Yes! Having two small loopers can also result in a lot of fun "crazy" experiments and rhythms. Recently I've been running my looper in the FX loop of my amp. Whatever works best for you is the right answer. :)

[@jumpingman8160]

For peeps on a budget, here are some ideas. OD: *Joyo Vintage Overdrive* - a great TS clone for pennies. *Marshall BB2* - different flavor of OD, has 2 options [overdrive and clean boost] it works wonders to push another dirt pedal further up the gain [imho sounds better than the Boss DS1] Distortion: *Joyo Ultimate drive* - OCD clone. Sounds great [also *Mooer Hustle drive*, *EHX the Glove*, Most Mooer dirt boxes are great imho to be honest] Compression/sustainer: *Joyo Dynamic Compressor* - an MXR clone that works wonders. I use it to further compress my dirt boxes. Modulation: *Mooer ELady* [ehx Electric Mistress clone] and/or *Mooer Ninety Phaser* [MXR phaser copy with 2 options, sounds great] Time based Effects *Zoom MS70CDR* - has a shit ton of delays, reverbs and chorus [plus some useful extras such as EQ], some sound gorgeous, others not so much, all useful Looper: *Rowin Twin Looper*

[@JeffStarr]

+David these are all excellent budget versions. Thanks for sharing. I know a few people who have switched to these micro versions, specifically the Joyo compressor.

[@jumpingman8160]

In this day and age we have a LOT to chose from. Sadly, most people go after the brand rather than being smart and go for the least expensive [but good]. Joyo has some pretty good pedals [American Sound is a def. winner and as pre-amps go it takes dirt pedals like a true champ, AC Tone and British Sound also get quite close to the pre-amps they emulate]. I've seen their Tremolo and phaser being highly praised, but never tested them personally, so I can't say. Mooer has great pedals and some nasty ones as well. Their Hustle [OCD clone], and Rumble [Zen Drive clone] are pretty good and practically in the same ball park as the originals. The Black Secret [Rat clone] is indistinguishable from the 2 versions it emulates [seriously, put them side by side and be amazed]. They had a Micro Pog clone that sounded better than the EHX original but EHX got them to take it off the market. Now they have the 2nd version coming out [Tender Octaver Pro]. If you can, get your hands on either one.

[@ToddtheExploder]

David Completely agree with you about the Joyo overdrive. Really great range of tones at a super-affordable price.

[@fiftypeehead]

MS70 CDR is an amazing pedal for the price. Served me well for a good while and sold on eBay in about 5 minutes which says a lot

[@sidbrederuhles882]

Dude, yer vids are cool man but don't play a dam sitar lol

[@Theweeze100]

Good choices on the pedals. I catered a gig in California one time for Los Lobos. They had gotten in late, tired and weary from the road after everybody else had eaten, I got a chance to sit down and talk shop with David Hidalgo while he had dinner. It was wonderful, he was extremely down to earth, so incredibly knowledgeable about every piece of equipment out there. We were talking about trying to get that ultimate tone, and to my surprise he suggested that to beef up my sound instead of going towards an amp solution, I use a tube screamer. He used one and loved it.

[@JeffStarr]

This is a great story! Recently there have been some videos circulating on KZbin with Steve Via talking about how he just uses off the shelf Boss pedals. Prince did the same thing. Sometimes the everyday classics are heard to beat, and if you are touring they are a lot easier to replace if something gets stolen or ruined.

[@Theweeze100]

notbadfilms Thank you, : ) one of the things he mentioned while we were talking was that they used mainly rented equipment wherever they went on the road, and he was particularly vexed by the fact that some of the cabinets he would run into were wired 16 Ohms, I imagine to keep customers from blowing up the amps. I think he figured he could get a familiar and repeatable tone out of his pedals in case the back line equipment was pedestrian in nature. Thanks again for the Video!

[@GuitarGodgt]

Video starts around 2:30.

[@real_fjcalabrese]

Since, they have a muting function, tuning pedals are awesome if you're gigging. I recommend the Korg with the big display. My go to effect is my DS-1. I used an early 1970s Vox/ Thomas Organ King Wah throughout the 1990s. I stopped gigging in 99. My old wah needs repair. I'm playing again. I found the Dunlap wah pedals-especially the MC404 CAE0 - to be just better than Vox's current offerings, and I'm a Vox fanboy.

[@OttoBillstrom]

In (non-boutique) Tubescremer land I find the Bad Monkey to be king! You get the midhump, but also independent controls for hi and low frequencies which makes it that little bit more versatile as you can make it really beefy with a boosted low register. No monkey business there! Plus a second hand one will cost you £30 quid which I guess is around 35-40 bucks? Bargain of anyone's money!

[@JeffStarr]

This is a really great suggestion. Thanks for sharing. Cheers!

[@junito1957]

YEA STILL HAVE MINES GOT IT SINCE WHEN I USE TO COST $32 ,LOL

[@rubetube2009]

This is good, you should make more top 5 lists

[@JeffStarr]

Thanks man, this is why I was picking your brain so much about the Compressor.

[@8BitChickn]

If you do one on compressors make sure to check out The Warden by Earthquaker devices. Cheers

[@ManuelPassarella1]

I agree with everything you said, personally I went through some similar thinking when I wanted to put together my pedalboard and here are my 5-pedal-pedalboard (considering the fact that I went for versatility) 1) Wha - Morley Bad Horsie 2 (got it as a gift to me so I am not complaining about it) tweaked to shorten the disengaging time. 2) Vox Cooltron Duel Overdrive (or any other dinamic OD) 3) EHX - Stereo Mistress (Flanger / Chorus / Flanger + Chorus and Filter Matrix) 4) TC Electronic Echobrain Analog Delay for slapbacks 5) TC Electronic Skysurfer Reverb (Spring / Plate / Hall type reverb) Extremely affordable (second-hand) and versatile. I recently added just a tuner and the TC Electronic Spark mini (booster)

[@JeffStarr]

That sounds like a very cool rig! Having a dynamic OD is super important.

[@jumpship88]

I almost forgot that the boss ds1 was the first pedal I ever owned.. wowww its been a long time

[@RyanWright]

as far as a wah goes, I would throw the Ibanez Weeping Demon in the mix as well. Great pedal, affordable, built like a tank and can do whatever type of wah sound you want...

[@JeffStarr]

Ibanez makes great gear.

[@gergemall]

Love your selections. Very helpful.

[@garystackhouse5787]

This is a video for beginners... therefore it would have been nice for you to give sound samples for all the pedals (not just the wah) to illustrate why you've chosen each one. Those of us who play know what you're talking about, but this isn't really designed for us, is it? (Also... Andy Summers of The Police used a flanger, not a chorus.)

[@tonezone111]

Gary Stackhouse Andy Summers says he used to use a chorus. And I think he might know. That's not to say he never used a flanger, but his main sound was chorus.

[@alexmurphy5289]

He used both, and they can sound very similar anyway (at low settings for the flanger obviously). You can't go wrong with either

[@iwct]

As a regular gigging guitarist I have to disagree with you about the tuner. Being able to frequently check your tuning in a noisy environment and be able to mute your guitar I personally find a must. Otherwise a very useful video.

[@JeffStarr]

Yes, I agree. To clarify what I said in the video. I think that if you are out gigging on a regular basis a tuner on your board, or even a clip on tuner on your headstock, is extremely useful. My video was tailored more to players looking to start getting pedals and build their first rig. Presumably not many would be playing gigs yet. Also, it's awesome that you're working as a gigging guitarist. Being a gigging musician is a lot of hard work and dedication. My brothers and dad made it their full time employment so I have a lot of respect to anyone else who is able to do so too. Cheers!

[@eval7952]

As a beginner myself, I learned not to be afraid of expensive brands cause u can always sell used equipment and get most of ur money back.

[@timdavis9566]

I've always wanted to learn how play guitar, ever since my dad had one and would pull it out on occasion, and he had enough talent to impress, at least, me at 6 years old. So I'm always impressed when someone has that talent- and a little jeolus.😮🎶🎸😏

[@JeffStarr]

Guitar is the best! It's not too hard to learn. You can do it!

[@felixbrunidor9294]

Hey man..great vid.. what would suggest for a duo pedal ..tube screamer with ep booster pedal ..or ocd fulltone with ep booster?

[@JeffStarr]

It's hard to go wrong with a tube screamer and a boost. You may want to check out the TC Spark Mini as an alternative to the EP Boost. Both are great boost pedals but the TC has dropped in price recently so it's very affordable.

[@thegreat8982]

THANNNK YOUUU! Now my question is, What do I need to set them up ( I don’t have any pedals)

[@JeffStarr]

You will need patch cables to connect the pedals together and then you will either need a power supply or batteries to power the pedals. Most pedals will use a 9 volt battery but some of the smaller enclosures don't and require an external unit. The external units can be something as simple as a cord you plug into the wall or something more special and designed to power multiple pedals at once.

[@thegreat8982]

The battery’s are just normal 9 volt battery’s right? “Like nothing special I need to buy online

[@JeffStarr]

Yes it’s almost always a normal 9 volt battery. Always check each pedal to make sure they can take batteries though. Also, some might take 2.

[@markferguson3745]

Don't waste money on BS power supplies- very important.No daisy chain1spots, and batteries will just frustrate and keep costing.Voodoo Lab Pedal Power is one of many; notice the output options,- some cater towards high consumption ("ma") digital effects, and others toward lower analog .These are around $100,- well worth it.

[@professorpedalz7215]

high five for the phase 95 as a starter phaser...can't do much better

[@JeffStarr]

Indeed!

[@doggy7210]

great video. Personally I'd get a compressor pedal before a phaser. I feel like a phaser is like a sound effect, rather than part of your sound. I may be ignorant on the subject because i've never used a phaser

[@JeffStarr]

If you are looking to play specific types of music, like country style "Chicken Pick'n," then a compressor is an excellent substitution for a phaser.

[@larrygeetar9309]

Head stock tuners do the trick. Cheap, accurate, easy, stick it in your gig bag. Does not take up space on your board and you can use it while playing unlike your phone. Good information here, thank you.

[@JeffStarr]

Yes, totally agree 100%. Headstock tuners for the win!

[@arnyarny77]

as far as delay both types are a must compliment

[@JeffStarr]

Agree, get both. :)

[@neleknut2379]

After spending so many years watching gear reviews and reading about pedals and having owned 2 of these pedals (Boss DD7 and Hall of Fame) I must say this Top 5 is great and a perfect guide for people who are just starting out getting information about pedals. These are pedals almost everybody can agree on which are reasonably priced and good value for the money. For example you don't really have to buy a Strymon Big Sky or something as expensive. The Hall of Fame does the job and really sounds good. The Boss DD7 is wonderful.The analog setting is very good. I compared it to a Moog analog delay and didn't like the analog sound of the Moog much better. But I eventually replaced it with a Seymour Duncan Vapor trail. It's the one analog delay pedal I would include or recommend (it's a bit underrated or goes under the radar compared to the MXR). It sounds beautiful and the modulation is pretty great and it is cheaper than the MXR Carbon Copy but brighter in sound I guess. In case you read this I would be pretty much interested in a follow up list replacing the mid price range pedals with cheaper or the cheapest ones.

[@JeffStarr]

Hi! Thanks for leaving a comment. That's a great idea about creating a list using low cost alternatives! I will definitely add that to the list of videos I plan to make. Good recommendation about the Vapor Trail too. It's definitely a pedal that people forget about but it's really nice and a great price point. I also like the flashing light so you can see the tempo of the delay.

[@neleknut2379]

Yep. Cool. I'm looking forward to it. Keep up the good work :)

[@rohaihuparaguay]

Great video!, All are very good recommendations. I have the sp compressor and it is the best compressor I have had so far. I also agree with the phase 45. I have a Strymon Mobius in my board now to cover modulation but the truth is that it cannot do phasing as nicely as a simple mxr script phase 90, and the phase 95 definitely can. In the realm of tubescreamer-like pedals I really like the Way Huge Green Rhino, lots of control over the tone. For transparent types of overdrives, my favorite so far is the Walrus Mayflower. Regarding loopers, I have a big Pigtronix looper in my big board, but in my small setup I realized the EHX Canyon Delay can loop and do delay, and both very well. Even though in my big board I have a Boss DD-500 delay, which turned out to be great, I still always have an MXR Carbon Copy to thicken leads, my favorite analogue delay so far.

[@JeffStarr]

All great pedals and information. The comment section on this video has become such a great home for gear recommendations for new players trying to figure out their rig. Thanks for commenting!

[@ericportillo8277]

First pedals i got when i first started playing: -dunlop cry baby -ehx small clone -ibanez ts7 -ibanez smash box

[@JeffStarr]

Nice selection! EHX Small clone is a classic.

[@johanneschristopherstahle3395]

My first one was a Korg AX 300 G multi effects pedal. Then I bought a TS-10, CryBaby. Marshall DriveMaster. Next came a Ibanez UE 300 (CP-9, TS-9 and SC-9 in one box). Last addition was the Smashbox (I still have it although I don't really use it that often). I really love my Tubescreamer pedals and don't wanna miss them. But I wouldn't recommend using them with a solid state amp, because their clipping can sound quite harsh if not interacting with a tube amp.

[@ianpeck3410]

I play bass in a rock band and like you, I'm addicted to pedals. I am buying all of those😂.

[@JeffStarr]

Thanks for watching! I hope the video was helpful. Rock on.

[@bh5892]

"Sure your amp has some sort of overdrive or distortion.. unless you have a really good amp" Me, mostly acoustic player.. *Looks over at my incomplete Marshall 100W head rig*

[@matrixstar2767]

Whish I would have seen your video 1st before buying my pedals. So much to check out. My pedals: Boss OD1X, Donner Tutti Love (chorus), Donner Verb Square, Boss RC-5 Looper.

[@kellyvaughnofficial]

Awesome video! Thanks for sharing. 🎸

[@vtdr]

what a video bro! i just sold my me70 and this list will be pretty much everything i'll buy this month

[@JeffStarr]

I'm glad this was helpful!

[@EternityRecordsUSA]

Great information. Thanks for the great video

[@sordel5866]

Very useful video for someone looking to go the pedal route but for price/performance (and convenience) a multi-FX pedal (e.g. Line 6 HX) is just so much better for a learning guitarist: it even saves you the cost of a pedalboard/power supply and avoids cross-pedal hum. You can add other pedals to your rig later if you find that the Line 6 isn't delivering quite the tone you want.

[@JeffStarr]

Multi-effect units are great! I love those too and I agree that they provide a lot of bang for the buck... provided you have the money for the initial investment. I also think there is something worthwhile about building your rig one pedal at a time and being forced to learn how to use your gear and understand the tones possible. I know I've personally been sucked in to option paralysis when using large multi-effect units; suddenly an hour passes and I've just been tweaking knobs and I forgot to play my guitar. Ha ha! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. Cheers.

[@shawnshipstad739]

I agree, go to Reverb.com and you can get a Roland GR-55 for 5-600.00 and they do everything. even at 600.00 thats 3-4 pedals. They are making better sa pick-ups now if you dont want to spend 7-1100.00 on an sa ready axe. Good luck.

[@Mauitaoist]

Until It Breaks and you throw your line 6 multi-effects in the trash and then you have nothing to use and you're screwed

[@RBolognese]

I use a joyo ultimate drive which is a phenomenal sounding OCD clone pedal at a fraction of the cost.you couldn’t tell the difference w the ultimate drive and OCD side by side. If you don’t believe me KZbin them for yourself and you be the judge.

[@kathleen336]

My first pedal was the JamMan Express xt looper pedal. Battery or power, easy to use and affordable.

[@JeffStarr]

Loopers are great when starting out. Nice!

[@enriquejaimes3368]

Agree with everything you said. I’d just ad the boss rc-3 as a great looper option.

[@JeffStarr]

Thanks! I actually have this pedal. :) I am not a huge fan of the Boss style on/off switch when using a looper. I always mess up the timing. But that's on me and my clumsy feet. Ha! Boss makes GREAT stuff overall. Thanks for watching!

[@alexoftheway8169]

Cool vidio. As for tuners what's wrong with the little Daddario tuner that you can descreetly fix to the headstock of the guitar. It allows for tuning with the sound turned off too.

[@JeffStarr]

I love these! Very low cost and it doesn't eat up space on your board. :) Great with acoustic guitars too.

[@javierf55]

Thanks for a great video, the list is very informative. I'm lookin for the Keely Dark Side as I love Pink Floyd... I will be building my pedal board Little by little as I just got my first tube amp...

[@taurushamilton2739]

I love that pedal just got it a few weeks ago... replaced 2 other pedals... economy is best on a board I’ve found 🤣🤘🏾

[@jayogden773]

Great video! Loved the suggestions and agree with your setup! Keep the videos coming! Very helpful!

[@jelaienfinue]

If you're in a band and you're playing live (or even if you aren't) I'd say that the first pedal to get is a tuner. It is mandatory and I'd get that before anything else. The crowd doesn't care about which phaser you have, but they will hate you if your e string is flat. If you're playing at home and you're not in a band then you can skip that one, but a tuner is so far the most useful pedal I have used. Great video by the way, I agree with all of your suggestions.

[@JeffStarr]

I agree about having a tuner for live use. I've been seeing more and more people switch to a clip on headstock tuner in an attempt to free up pedalboard space. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!

[@JaysonAngove]

I have finally found someone akin to my own gear obsession. I wish we could talk about gear in person. Loved this video I agree 100%. Please don't stop making videos. Uneducated musicians need you.

[@JeffStarr]

Ha ha! Thanks! I am currently working on a video about Earthquaker Devices' pedal lineup. I also have a video on my channel about 5 Must Own Electro Harmonix pedals: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SnZHx-YpWXjdU Thank you for watching and leaving a comment. Cheers!

[@JaysonAngove]

I watched that one. The POG is definitely a game changer. Excited to see your new one.

[@JeffStarr]

Cool man. Also, I checked out your videos. Nice stuff!

[@JaysonAngove]

notbadfilms thank you sir :)

[@Cyclops43]

I really enjoyed this. Your video stood out above the others for me because it was more personable, I don't need someone to try and sell me on the features of a particular pedal by touting its specs. A verbal description of the basic functionality is more important.

[@JeffStarr]

Thanks! My goal was to make something that could easily explain pedals and why you might want specific ones. At the time I figured there were a million demos already online so if you want to hear something it’s easy enough to search for an in-depth video of that specific pedal.

[@shawnshipstad739]

Next video please tell us what you think about noise gate,supperssor etc. You know they are needed.. Thank you.Shawn

[@JeffStarr]

Good idea for a future video. Thanks!

[@E-BikingAdventures]

Inteast of spending over $200 on the looper and delay you should buy a guitar multi effects processor. Those 2 effects are digital anyways. You will get a hell of a lot more for less money including a chromatic tuner, reverb and drum rythems and about 50 other effects you can goof around with.

[@alexmurphy5289]

Phenomenal list. Truly. I don't agree with every choice for my own uses, but for beginners it's the perfect list. I owned the phase 95 and sold it but over time I've realized how great that pedal is. BTW, it comes with a power supply which is awesome. Cheers

[@ArturoMontanaroAstro]

You're great, I love you. I just got amazing pedals, my first pedal board.

[@JeffStarr]

GREAT! I hope my videos are helpful. I appreciate the nice comment and thank you for watching.

[@jococo4798]

Question: As a very beginner guitarist on a budget, do I need to spend money on physical pedals? Can't I just get a bunch of much cheaper pedal Apps for my phone/computer and run my guitar through them?

[@JeffStarr]

This is a great question. A multi-effects unit is a great tool for beginners learning about pedals. They often contain a bunch of effects. While they may not sound mind blowing compared to top of the line stand alone analog and digital units, the quality can be really good and often is perfect for home use. They can give you a taste of everything and help you learn what you like. Apps on your computer and phone ofter a similar experience and can be a solution if you don’t have an amp or want to wear headphones. There are a ton of options so it’s hard to recommend a specific unit or software without knowing your budget or the style you are looking to play. I hope this was helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions. Rock on!

[@jococo4798]

@@JeffStarr Thanks for your followup. I appreciate it!

[@shawnshipstad8883]

It does not work that way. If you are on a tight budget, there are many combo amps(The head and speaker in one box) have effects built right into the amp. Meaning all you need is a guitar, wah pedal, 2 cabies and a combo amp with built in effects. You do not need any more than 25 watts. 50 tops. There is a Marshall code 25-50. A Katrina 25-50 watts. all around 250.00. Fender makes one as well (I think it is the mustang)try at Guitar center and buy on the net. A wah pedal you can get on craigs list for 40-75.00 (You will want one. Many of the amplifiers I just mentioned have a very important feature built in them. A TUNER!. That is 25-50.00+ you wlll not have to spend. If you get the right amp you can save a ton. I understand when first coming out of the gate you want to sound good. This will help you.Good luck & hope you enjoy and do very well. PS: If you play good enough, you will get laid alot more. I am not kidding. Any relationship to Trumps attorney? They nasty nephew? -Just kidding.

[@brandontorbert3209]

Don't buy a Boss TU-3. IMO that is a terrible choice for a tuner especially compared to the Poly Tune. Instead buy a TC Electronic Poly Tune. The Poly Tune is Such a better tuner. The rest of your choices I can't really argue with. Thanks for the cool video. It's pretty insightful.

[@JeffStarr]

This was actually a hard choice for me too make. The PolyTune is a great option and I'm glad you mentioned it. I went with the Boss because it has such an insanely good reputation for being durable and living forever. That's not to say that the PolyTune is a bad pedal at all. People should definitely consider it and make the choice based on their needs for size and cost. Or... Get a clip-on headstock tuner. ha! :) Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. Cheers!

[@Mauitaoist]

Polytune all day long

[@Icemann11000]

Actually, I am in the process of building a rig and all the pedals that were mentioned have been on my shopping list. I have to give the tube screamer another look, but other than that, most of the pedals that I want to buy, made your top 5 list. Go figure.

[@JeffStarr]

That's amazing and it definitely means you have been doing your research. Thank you for watching and leaving a comment. The tube screamer may not be the sexiest pedal anymore, but there is a reason why it was remained so popular with so many clones over the years. Since I made this video JHS has come out with a pretty cool Tube Screamer pedal with a bunch of different circus you can try. Finally, I love your HAL avatar icon. 2001: A Space Odyssey is one of my all time favorite movies!

[@shawnshipstad8883]

Add on an ehx "The Silencer". they are fairly new one of the least and best on the market. These pedals will generate alot of nasty noise. I have tried many. That is what Guitar Center is for. Try before you buy. Some of these suppressors will kill you. Your tone will not exist. I have been playing for over 50 years and I am very picky. Good luck to you. I am glad you are doing some research. It is easy to get lost and waste Money & time. Both important items on your list.

[@billthomas9328]

Thank you.. great video. Would have loved for you to play the ones you recommended though

[@JeffStarr]

Thank you for the feedback!

[@goodandbadtimes]

Irony. There should be an Irony Pedal. Here we are, at time of "Publication" in April 2021. This video, after months of an unfathomable, incomprehensible diatribe from innumerable KZbin sources, found your video by far the most helpful. No diddly squat. Here we are, 4.5 years and how many hundreds of Pedals and Videos later and in my opinion, I just listened to the most coherent, rational and helpful video which didn't exhaust, bother or bewilder. Wish I had started here. Thanks pal. You nailed it. Hope all's well?

[@carlomolina576]

Where are those pedals and gear? 🤔

[@itchyviking]

Just thought. Get a Korg Pandora mini. You get everything including a drummer (proper, can't tell it what to do!!). Ok it's not a pedal but it's brilliant. A definite must have.

[@alexmurphy5289]

Flashback 2 is also a great option to try multiple delays but the boss is always good too. Always.

[@JeffStarr]

Agree! Thanks for sharing.

[@willderby-hoffman5193]

Super interesting and informative, thanks dude!

[@JeffStarr]

Thank YOU for watching. I am glad it was helpful. :)

[@gabrieldelacruz1007]

I really love this video !! thanks man for these suggestions !! you should do more of these :D

[@JeffStarr]

Thanks for watching! I have made two similar videos that you may also like: 5 guitar pedals by Earthquaker Devices kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4XHeqprj6urm68 and 5 EHX guitar pedals kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4SnZHx-YpWXjdU (this video has been really popular) I am working on a my next video about guitar amps now. If there is a topic you would like to see me cover next, let me know.

[@reymonti5504]

The best overdrive/ distortion pedal is the NR100 Behringer, by far, believe me.

[@ThePierrezx]

Am I wrong if I consider that the almost first needed pedal is the CHORUS one ? (If we had to have only one in an imaginary and constrictive world...) 🙂

[@JeffStarr]

My first pedal was a chorus. And although I love it (and still use it) it wasn’t what I needed at the time in my little teenage rockin’ combo, especially with my crummy amp that had awful sounding distortion. So that experience influenced my thinking. What was your first pedal?

[@j4yp03]

0:01 my name is jeff

[@sergioalvarez5949]

Great video, what's your opinion of the boss me-80?

[@JeffStarr]

If you have an amp and are starting out with effects, this is a great option and I've recommended it before. It has enough options to keep you busy but not so many that you will end up with "option paralysis" trying to find sounds you like. It will help you learn a lot about effects and what you like and don't like. For the price it's a lot cheaper than some of the more modern options like the Helix or Headrush floorboards. The one thing to keep in mind is that if you end up getting into guitar and effects seriously you will eventually want to replace the ME-80. So for $299 (the US price currently) you can go with that all in one solution or instead pick three of the pedals I suggested (let's say the full size tube screamer, Dunlop Mini Wah and Phase 95) and have something you can keep forever and also spend less money.

[@sergioalvarez5949]

@@JeffStarr i bought a blackstar HT 5 R at the same time as the ME 80. I use the amp with a cheap tele and a JAG acoustic/ electric. My son advised me not to use any effect or the ME80 until my playing got better or after a year. The onky time I have taken the me80 out of the box was the day i purchased it to make sure it work.

[@JeffStarr]

Love this! If you already have the Me-80 it will serve you really well and it's GREAT for a beginner. Your son is very wise to encourage you to stick to learning the fundamentals of guitar before you get sucked into the world of guitar pedals. It's easy to watch KZbin videos about gear and it's hard to practice. But in the end, practicing is always more rewarding. Cheers!

[@sergioalvarez5949]

@@JeffStarr it will be a year in February, so I'm starting to get curious. I am a truck driver so i take my acoustic with me on the road. My son is in the military so he can't teach me one on one. Its hard to learn with only a book and you tube videos.

[@lylethielen5479]

great video ! informative and to the point . i like the fact that you let people know that these aren't the only pedals out there , and people should do their homework . keep up the good work

[@JeffStarr]

Thank you for the nice comment. I really wanted to help break down all of the information in an easy to understand way. Thank you watching. Let me know if there are future topics you would like to see me discuss.

[@lylethielen5479]

@@JeffStarr i will ! i see a few negative comments here and you'll always get those . i just wanted to say that i thought you did exactly what i have just recently started to do , " MY HOMEWORK " thank god for youtube and the internet . i have been playing for over 50 years ( bedroom rockstar ) and have always used pedals and such , but never really researched my choices . i just went with what i saw " THE OTHER GUY " using . that is fine , but not everyone has the same needs , budget , or taste . and your no b.s. approach to the essential pedals i thought was spot on . there are many choices out there and people need to do their homework . not everyone wants or needs this pedal , or that pedal , and that is the point you were emphasizing . i have learned tons in just the last year alone . i have made a few mistakes , but hell that is the fun thing about this all , right ? it's guitar playing , have fun . keep up the good work !

[@Sugbaable]

Didnt Slayer use a Tubescreamer on Reign in Blood? Still a good metal overdrive if so

[@Chiefamongsinnerz]

Great video brother, good info. Thanks!

[@shawnshipstad739]

I am a stagehand for national/international tours. as well as concert promotions. I see what these people use and you are using some of exactly what they are using. The pedal that supprised me the most is the tube screamer. I do not care if its Joan Jett who uses a solid state amp w/ tube pre amp, or Chicago, Full tube-they both use tube screamers. What I have had a problem with is finding the right noise reduction system. They all tell me they (The guitar tech has "Something set-up back there. I need more resrearch. I know kill switches are a favorite . Some of the noise gates ,no matter what rape me of my tonetotally. If anyone knows please reply with a sugestion. Thanks for the great job-Shawn

[@JeffStarr]

The Tube Screamer is really hard to beat. At this point it is “the sound” for so many live shows and recordings and it’s become part of the electric guitar sound. Noise gates are a crazy world I’ve only dug around with a little bit. There was a really great episode of “That Pedal Show” on KZbin were they talk about and demo noise gates. You might want to check that out. It might be hard for me to do anything more informative.

[@leandroperroni]

What do you think about the amp im about to buy? It is a Fender Superchamp x2. Most of the time I play Alternative Rock and Punk Rock, also a little of funk ( rhcp stuff). I chose this amp because even though im not a begginer, im not that much advanced. And I need rock distortion obviously but also a great clean, and good compatibility with pedals. So do you think that the Superchamp x2 is a good amp for me? I hope I explained myself correctly as Im from Argentina and my natural language is spanish. THANK YOU

[@JeffStarr]

I own the Superchamp XD (the slightly older version) and I love it. I play mostly rock and blues. It has a great clean channel (channel 1) that sounds great running wide open to get the power tubes screaming hot. It takes pedals very good in my view. The 10 inch speaker is "small" if you are playing with a full band though. That's the biggest drawback. You might prefer to get the head with the 12 inch cabinet. Also, I highly recommend that you check out this video: 5 Best Amp Heads under $600. Perfect for stage, studio and home recording kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYm9cp6HobJnrc0

[@leandroperroni]

notbadfilms Great dude, so you recomend it. Actually the speaker thing is not a problem to me so yeah. Im looking for a combo not a head but Ill check video anyway. Thank you

[@JeffStarr]

You may like this video too: Can a Fender Super Champ Sound Good at Low Volume? kzbin.info/www/bejne/aKike5uEpJqqprM

[@kevinmalone8903]

I have the head & cab Super Champ x2. Love it, replaced the 12"speaker, although not really necessary, it's just something I do but yeah, it rocks, loud enough to play with a drummer and bass, takes pedals well on the clean channel ,has decent overdrive/distortion and the effects are really good. Excellent first amp

[@GuitarsAndSynths]

Not a bad list can get everything including the pedals, pedaboard and power supply for about 1k.

[@Hawthorneeffect1]

Cool video. I like running a phaser before my dirt pedals and one after. You can get some interesting tones that way.

[@JeffStarr]

+Keith Williams I completely agree! I have recently been running my Moog Flanger first in my chain on a slow and subtle setting. Thanks for watching.

[@craigbrowning9448]

I have (Boss Pedals in Older Boss Case).... 1. Flanger (BF-2) 2. Chorus Ensemble (CE-5) 3. Blues Driver (BD-2) 4. Tremolo (TR-2) 5. Reverb (FRB-1) The Master On-Off Pedal (PSM-5) used as an A-B Switcher (Chorus, Flanger vs Blues Driver) both summed into Tremolo and Reverb.

[@craigbrowning9448]

I do have a Morley "Bad Horsie" Wah Pedal in another kit, the pedal control is Photo-Electric.

[@craigbrowning9448]

In the place of a Looper on Solo gigs, Drum Machine and Bass Pedals.

[@craigbrowning9448]

I have the virtual TU-3 on my phone and Snarks with Guitars.

[@revdrweb]

Daisy Chains are nice too....

[@calvinnieh8943]

Great video! Thanks for doing this. I agree sound samples would have been helpful. What would you say about the Digitech Screamin' Blues distortion/overdrive pedal? And the Spark mini boost? The HOF mini would be a good "basic" reverb alternative with tons of tone print choices (bearable by smart phone) and ability to customize tones via computer. Thx!

[@JeffStarr]

The HOF almost made this list, it's a great reverb option. I also like the Spark boost. I am not very familiar with the Digitech Screamin' Blues. I haven't used it in person. Thanks for watching and I appreciate that you took the time to leave a comment.

[@AnthMPLS]

Great videos! I really enjoy them. Thanks for making them. Cheers!

[@JeffStarr]

Thanks! I have a few new ones in the works now that I hope to finish up and post soon.

[@josephseraile6698]

How do they sound ?

[@TheJackieJP]

I am more into blues B.B. King , SRV , Hendrix and KWS what work best for these sounds ?

[@JeffStarr]

I would start with the Tube Screamer, The Dunlop Mini Wah and a delay pedal.

[@TheJackieJP]

@@JeffStarr Thank you for your advice have a wonderful Sunday .

[@RBolognese]

notbadfilms mod tone delay is a phenomenal delay pedal and is relatively inexpensive yet worth every penny

[@henrytuton9019]

Thank you very helpful and pedal chain as well

[@JeffStarr]

Glad it was helpful!

[@freeecountryy]

Fellow NYC'er here. I've actually run into you once at Main Drag. You told me about yr channel but I forgot the name. I just stumbled on it so I'm shocked lol! Anyways, I've been sticking to Main Drag for all my instrument needs lately, and don't venture into Southside after having a shitty experience there. Where's yr goto store? ?

[@JeffStarr]

Main drag is the best. Southside has great gear and vintage pedals but it's always a little out of my price range. Over the years I've bought a lot of stuff from RIvington Guitars and they recently expanded to have a second shop with all acoustics. But the guy who owns the place can be a little rude and I've had some mixed experienced there. But they always have good stuff.

[@mrdbchops]

Loved the video! What’s your opinion on things like the Helix? I’m looking to start making my own recordings and I want some actual physical gear instead of just the software (BIAS FX) that I been using. I got approved for a sam ash credit card and I been thinking of getting the Line 6 HX Stomp (or the full helix LT). I been researching it a lot, and the consensus is that it’s pretty damn good and the clean and modulation effects are quite good BUT the higher gain sounds can tend to sound a bit too ‘digital.’ So, I was thinking, If I got that I’d supplement it with a good distortion pedal (like the OCD). But then I saw that you said that for a pedal like the OCD it takes a tube amp to truly bring out all of its capabilities. And I will be recording everything direct in (via interface). So, would getting an HX stomp and supplementing it with a distortion pedal be a waste if I’m recording direct in using modelers and IRs? The other option I’m considering is buying a tube amp and building an actual pedal board and then using something like the Captor DI/loadbox to record the amp (and pedals) straight into pro tools, and then of course I’d have to use IRs as well. The good option with that is I could build up my pedals one at a time, while I guess still using Bias FX when I must. I’m interested to hear your two cents. I like classic and hard rock and I know software and modelers have come a long way, but I just really don’t want any overly ‘digital’ sounding distortion. So, what you say? An HX Stomp with a distortion pedal added to it, or an actual tube amp with a physical pedalboard with a DI/loadbox? I’ve excluded the option of miking an amp as I feel that’s too far out of my realm. Love the channel! I’ll be subscribing.

[@JeffStarr]

Great questions! If you are focusing on recording I would say to buy the Helix floorboard. It’s going to be a great tool with tons of flexibility and the tones are going to sound fantastic. You will learn a lot about effects and amp sounds too and you discover what you like the most and use the most. This will be super helpful down the road because if you do decide you want to buy a tube amp you will know exactly what you want sonically. For the cost the Helix is hard to beat. If you do decide you want to get a real amp and a DI solution I have a video about 5 amp heads that all have silent recording and DI out features - although it’s a little dated now. I would also suggest you look into the new Boss Waza Tube Expander. I would only really suggest buying the Tube Expander and an amp for recording if you have a ton of money to spend. For a lot less price the Helix will get you 98% percent there. In a live situation or as the guitar player you may “feel” the digital difference between tubes and Helix but with recording and having the guitar sound sitting in a track no one will ever be able to tell. Digital amp modeling is amazing for recording.

[@beamerstrumpet]

As you are making a beginner vid you should do a vid on top 5 AFFORDABLE pedals. Put up some Berhinger, Moorer, Joyo, ect. this sounds like an ADD FOR BOSS , TC , & MXR. all the big guys. starting guitarist dont have the money for BOSS.

[@charlestaylor7751]

keeley montery and keeley dark side for Hendrix and Floyd fans are awsome, catalinbread Talisman tape reverb and the echorec witch emulate a binson echorec are realy good picks to consider as well to my opinion.For delay the Strymon timeline is not cheap but realy worth it for someone who dosent want to change several times to get greatness;)

[@themadpoliticalscientist9245]

What about a multi-effect unit? I spent about $250 on a Boss ME-30 back in the day, and it had a passable version (for its time) of most of what you've listed here. In college, I ran an Epiphone from the ME-30 to a Marshal Valvestate and got perfectly usable sounds with a ton of room to explore.

[@JeffStarr]

I love multi effect units. I think they are a great way to learn about all types of effects, they let you experiment, they save space and the quality of the sounds gets better all the time. Some products like the Line 6 Helix or Axe FX are mind-blowing good too. My only complaint is that the technology changes so rapidly that it's near impossible to make a video about them. In the time it takes me to make a video something new has come out! :) Hopefully this video helps users learn about key effects and broadens their knowledge of guitar gear. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. I appreciate it.

[@miguelvega2814]

Yes!! Thanks so much

[@JeffStarr]

Let me know if you have any questions.

[@miguelvega2814]

Will do!

[@real_fjcalabrese]

You, Sir, are my hero!

[@jacobmcdougald4787]

What is your opinion on Keeley Electronics pedals? I love my compressor plus and mini katana boost.

[@JeffStarr]

I really like Keeley. He’s made some fantastic pedals over the years - the compressor and katana being 2 of many. The only pedal I don’t care for is the Monterey. In concept it’s a great idea (and I dig the paint job) but I think it should have been way more traditional in the type of circuits it uses. I’d love to try the D&M drive. Thanks for watching!

[@Mauitaoist]

I love my Keeley compressor plus

[@Cowboy_Beep_Da_Boop]

Can anyone help? Looking to buy a new amp. Got a 1.5k budget. 1k for the amp, 500 for pedals. I'm in a function band, currently looking at the custom deluxe 68. I have the fender mustang iii - is it worth upgrading? I play mixture of stuff, Journey, Fleetwood Mac, Bryan Adams to modern day music. Thanks :)

[@JeffStarr]

Maybe this helps? 5 Best Amp Heads under $600. Perfect for stage, studio and home recordingkzbin.info/www/bejne/nYm9cp6HobJnrc0

[@JeffStarr]

I also have a Mustang iii, it’s a pretty great tool. But I find I really only use 2 models (for me it’s the basemen and twin) so I think the big question for you is what amp models do you use the most. That will help you figure out what you need going forward. Also, if you keep the Mustang iii you can always make a stereo rig with your new amp! That’s a ton of fun.

[@Jonny-Saurus-Wrecks]

Sorry. Wrote my comment before the end of your video. You have a looper for #5. Also, very glad you mentioned the compressor (if you can find them, DOD made a great compressor/sustainer)🖖

[@Samsu_]

I agree with almost everything, but if you want to play Nirvana-songs, I would recommend the EHX Small Clone, because it is exactly that pedal that was used by Kurt Cobain. Amazing video btw

[@JeffStarr]

Great call out!

[@KKMDStyle]

How do you feel about Boss’ wah pedal?

[@jimicrack29]

thank you for posting!!!

[@leandroperroni]

I dont get it, why should I get the mini wah and not the original wah gcb95. What makes it better?

[@JeffStarr]

The mini wah has three tone settings, with one of the settings being the same as the GCB95. The different settings are really useful in getting a sound you like with your guitar and amp rig. Also, the mini wah takes up less space on a pedal board and people generally like that. Here is a video I made to demonstrate the different settings on the Mini Crybaby: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnOri6efmtKjl6c

[@capsuleboy]

man , I love chorus. my first pedal was a metal distortion, but when I became a little less poor I bought a beringher chorus and I dont want to sell it, even when I didnt use it that much because at that time I bought a korg ax100g which sucks, but i used that chorus. still i love chorus, i try to add it to all clean sounds in pedal boards.

[@JeffStarr]

For me the chorus sound that has remained on my pedal board for years now is a Univibe. It's obviously not a traditional chorus, but I love having it on really subtle to add some movement to the sound. I use the Fulltone DejaVibe. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!

[@TheJackieJP]

I have one more question do I need a amp or speaker for my guitar pedals ?

[@JeffStarr]

Yes, you would need some sort of guitar amp. If you are a beginner, you would likely get some sort of basic practice amp and some of those amps include a few digital effects.

[@TheJackieJP]

@@JeffStarr Thank you for all your help , Have a wonderful week .

[@JeffStarr]

Thank you for watching my video. Cheers!

[@KennethDonnellyStargazer21]

I started out in the 70's with the Muff, Vox-Wa, Echoplex, etc. all single function pedals; but these days never underestimate the Bang for your Buck with even the simplest MULTIEFFECT pedals, which--of course--have tuners built-in! These beasts just have too much to ignore. Never use my single boxes again.

[@JeffStarr]

+Kenneth Donnelly yes, multi effects are really awesome (and I use them too). This video should hopefully act like a guide to help new players navigate the fundamentals of guitar pedal obsession. Ha ha! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. Cheers!

[@KennethDonnellyStargazer21]

Thank you for your videos here, your comments and critique are clear, commonsensical and helpful. I am always Still learning; in fact, I think the best way to begin such an obsession (which I still have ) is with single pedals...the way I began. After all these years I still marvel at--and appreciate--how technology helps me further explore and discover new realms of sound, and Creativity--such fun! Loopers in particular are a focus of mine: the dimensions which are still opening up to me are nothing short of exhilarating. Thanks again--I recognize that glint in your eye, believe me : )

[@JeffStarr]

+Kenneth Donnelly thanks man! I love how technology, especially recording tech, has changed over the last 20 years. It's so much easier to make music now. I love it! Keep playing and exploring!

[@Mauitaoist]

Except when the thing breaks and you lose everything I prefer the individual approach to effects

[@catch5565]

Line 6 M9 or M13: Looper, tuner, overdrives-distortion, reverbs, delays, modulation, compressors, synth, octave, noise gate, filters, stack overdrives, send some to FX loop. Poor man’s helix.

[@timdavis9566]

I started looking up the difference between bitch and octive as it applies to singing, and found myself here,so I find you an interesting informatis(in my own word), but there's too much information for me to absorb,though I stayed to the end because you add a comedic sense of humor to your dialog. 😃👍

[@marcvenet8601]

Great video very instructive thanks

[@JeffStarr]

Glad you found it helpful. If there are similar topics you would like to see me make a video about, let me know. Thanks for watching.

[@AndrewPRoberts]

Me: I don't need more pedals *reads title* Me: Well shit

[@JeffStarr]

Haha! Well, these are mostly the basics to get people started. :)

[@marctomkins]

Great video, very informative. Thanks

[@JeffStarr]

I’m glad it was helpful. Thank you for watching.

[@davidstriderlindsley2712]

Great pedal suggestions.

[@JeffStarr]

Thanks for watching!

[@IndyRockStar]

For once I'd like to see a 5 pedals you need with a price range of $200 - $500. That's where most of the great pedals live like the Friedman BE-OD, Walrus Audio Juliana, Audio Source Lunar, anything Strymon (Timeline, Big Sky), etc.

[@reidruh9720]

Bought a mini tube screamer today ❤️ for my fender Rhodes ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@MisterNashT]

My first pedal was a chorus too!!

[@Jonny-Saurus-Wrecks]

Hmmm, after a quick glance of the most recent responses, my own critique of the video has not been addressed. First of all, great video. Lots of good information. Thanks for that. You say you are a gear nerd, a tone geek- sorry, my term and definitely not a pejorative, etc., but I didn't see a single piece of gear, other than stills of the Boss products you were pushing, or the 10- second or so PiP of the Wah. Nor did I hear any of these pedals' sounds demonstrated (other than the aforementioned). It's my humble opinion that if you call yourself and your brother "gear heads" then perhaps you could bring and demonstrate some gear to put on your videos. Just a thought. A lot of folks looking for the 5 guitar pedals they "need," are probably noobs who would rather hear digital vs analog delay, hear the difference between spring or other reverb on their amp, vs digital delay, etc., then maybe they wonder why they should get phasers instead of flangers. Oh, and maybe a good 6th pedal would be a looper. Again, highly informative, just not musical. At all. Remember a quote from the great prophet, Zappa: "Writing about music is like dancing about architecture."