In recent years, multi-effects pedals have solidified themselves as a popular choice among hardware modeling enthusiasts, and they’re more sonically and functionally viable than ever before. They’re often used as top-to-bottom tone generators—from effects chain to amplifier to speaker cabinet—for recording directly to an interface, practicing through headphones or studio monitors, and performing live with a signal sent straight to FOH. Floorboard-style units can also be integrated with real amps, substituting expansive stompbox layouts for a standalone, streamlined effects processor. No matter how you choose to apply it, these are some of the best multi-effects pedals available for guitarists and bassists. 

Table of Contents

What Is a Multi-Effects Pedal?
Why Choose a Multi-Effects Pedal Over Amps and Stomps?
Our Top Multi-Effects Pedal Picks
   BOSS GX-10 Guitar Effects Processor
   BOSS GX-100 Guitar Effects Processor
   BOSS ME-90 Guitar Multi-Effects Pedal
   Fender Tone Master Pro Multi-Effects Processor
   HeadRush Core Multi-Effects Processor
   IK Multimedia TONEX One Modeling Amp and Distortion Effects Pedal
   Kemper Profiler Player Amp Modeling and Multi-Effects Pedal
   Line 6 POD Go Guitar Multi-Effects Processor
   Line 6 POD Go Wireless Guitar Multi-Effects Processor
   Line 6 HX Stomp Multi-Effects Processor
   Line 6 Helix Multi-Effects Pedal
Amp Up Your Rig With the Best Multi-Effects Pedals Today

What Is a Multi-Effects Pedal?

Amp and effects simulation dates as far back as 1982, when Scholz Research & Development, Inc. (SR&D) released the Rockman—a speaker-less, portable cassette player-sized practice amplifier for guitarists, complete with clean, edge-of-breakup and distorted modes, alongside switchable reverb and chorus. It initially offered guitarists an easy means of playing through a pair of headphones or a stereo receiver, forgoing loud, expensive tube amps and clunky signal chains. Years later, in 1998, Line 6 launched their original POD amp sim and multi-effects processor, helping establish the blueprint for modern modeling as we know it. Today’s best multi-effects pedals certainly build on the foundation laid by those early predecessors, with an unbelievable amount of power compared to the old-school units.

Here, we’ll be looking specifically at floorboard-type processors that combine stompbox-style functionality and the extraordinary flexibility of a contemporary hardware modeler. Each entry on the list provides onboard amp and cabinet emulation as a primary feature, as well as a huge selection of both vintage and modern effects. So, whether you’re looking to dial in a tight, percussive tone for extended-range metal, create a droning ambient soundscape or duplicate a timeless signal chain for country, blues, rock and more, these all-inclusive pedalboards have you covered.

Why Choose a Multi-Effects Pedal Over Amps and Stomps?

Multi-effects pedal processors are hard to beat in terms of cost and convenience relative to “real” amps and stompboxes. For less than the price of many tube heads/combos, you can equip yourself with dozens of emulated amplifiers and effects—all housed in one portable processor. Plus, you can run a multi-effects unit with a power amp and speaker cabinet to retain much of the traditional playing experience and still enjoy the nearly endless tonal possibilities modelers offer. And when it’s time to jam or practice quietly, record right to your DAW or play a fly date with a barebones rig, a hardware amp and effects simulator can do that, too.

Even if you run a modeler in front of your favorite amplifier for its effects alone, you can easily create complex signal chains that would require handfuls of physical pedals. Being able to engage presets, or patches/scenes, containing multiple effects with one footswitch is a massive modeling advantage. With regular pedals, this would require a complex switching system and a lot of wiring/programming know-how—or a professional consultation and buildout. Multi-effects pedals put everything you need at your feet and fingertips.

In a similar vein, the effortless routing flexibility of modelers has most standard rigs on the ropes as far as intuitiveness and speed are concerned. You can quickly swap effects in and out, and change your virtual pedal order, to experiment with textures at will—no physical repatching necessary. Not to mention, you can alter your amp platform from searing American high gain to classic British crunch to vibrant old-school cleans at any time. The best multi-effects pedals are some of the most versatile tools guitar and bass players have at their disposal.      

Our Top Multi-Effects Pedal Picks

BOSS GX-10 Guitar Effects Processor

Why It’s Cool: Big BOSS sound is the heart of the GX-10, and sleek portability is the soul, merging the free-flowing interface of the larger GX-100 with an even more movable package.  

Things to Consider:

• 23 AIRD guitar amps and nine bass amps
• Organize and edit patches via BOSS Tone Studio
• Weighs only four pounds and fits into a backpack

Pictured: BOSS GX-10 Guitar Multi-Effects Processor

For players who prioritize portability in addition to powerhouse digital processing, the BOSS GX-10 multi-effects unit delivers on all fronts. Its user-friendly color touchscreen streamlines patch making, and each memory may contain up to two amplifiers and 15 simultaneous effects for as much or as little depth as your tone requires. BOSS’ AIRD modeling technology is second to none, delivering the rich, nuanced sound and feel of real tube amps. Hard rock and metal guitarists will especially appreciate the X-Ultra, X-Optima and X-Titan high-gain amp models, meticulously crafted with the latest, greatest BOSS emulation technology. The GX-10 is also filled to the brim with over 170 effects, including numerous BOSS classics, as well as various gain stages, modulation, reverb, delay and even bass-specific “pedals.”

What’s more, the BOSS Tone Studio companion app is an intuitive way to create, edit and organize presets from a computer. Accessing the Tone Exchange through the software opens up a universe of fresh sounds, from professionally created patches to those shared by the community. Whether you’re always on the move and convenience is key, or you’re simply searching for a solution to top-tier tones at home, the BOSS GX-10 has something for everyone.

BOSS GX-100 Guitar Effects Processor

Why It’s Cool: Powerful and easy to use, the BOSS GX-100 utilizes a color touch display for drag-and-drop patch design, keeping you locked in creatively instead of wrestling your gear.   

Things to Consider:

• Eight freely assignable footswitches and an onboard expression pedal
• MIDI and USB I/O for deeper control and direct recording
• Seamlessly interfaces with the BOSS Tone Studio for editing and organizing sounds

Pictured: BOSS GX-100 Guitar Multi-Effects Processor

The BOSS GX-100 multi-effects pedalboard processor is an advanced platform for honing your signature sound. With 23 AIRD amp types, over 150 iconic BOSS effects, handfuls of speaker IRs and 15 simultaneous blocks, the ultraflexible GX-100 has everything you need to take your tone to the next level. Start with one of 100 preset memories, or dive into the deep end of patch design, using the built-in touchscreen and four rotary encoders to quickly and intuitively manage all operable parameters. Elastic internal routing lets you run amps and effects in series or parallel for unlimited sonic variation, and you can save up to 200 of your top settings for instant recall on stage or in the studio. Best of all, BOSS’ AIRD modeling technology authentically recreates the real amp experience, so it sounds and feels like you’re plugging straight into your go-to head or combo. Going a step beyond, you can upload custom IRs to ensure your rig is yours to a tee.

The BOSS GX-100 packs tons of tonal variety, but its uncluttered interface is approachable for users at any skill level, which is not something every modeler can claim. Regardless of how you play it—in front of an amp via the four-cable method or directly to the house mixer—the GX-100 offers uncompromising fidelity, flexibility and user friendliness.

BOSS ME-90 Guitar Multi-Effects Pedal

Why It’s Cool: Sporting a fully tactile control surface, the BOSS ME-90 is ideal for players craving the versatility of digital multi-effects pedals sans the menu diving.       

Things to Consider:

• Amp and effect library derived from the flagship BOSS GT-1000
• Lightweight and portable, with legendary BOSS ruggedness
• 32-bit floating-point processing and 48kHz sampling

Pictured: BOSS ME-90 Guitar Multi-Effects Pedal

Guitarists accustomed to the traditional stompbox interface, and who love the tactile feel and instant response of knobs, will get along swimmingly with the BOSS ME-90. Bypassing the graphic display of many popular multi-effects pedals, the ME-90 has enough knobs to make any tone tweaker happy.

The ME-90’s dedicated amp section contains 11 AIRD models, noted for their tube-like tone and touch response. Choosing from 60 onboard BOSS effects in every category, the ME-90 lets you stack up to seven simultaneous sounds after the amp block to dial in your own presets—save up to 36 of your favorites, or hit the ground strumming with 36 preloaded factory tones for immediate inspiration. When you run the board in Memory mode, you can use the footswitches to change full patches on the fly. In Manual mode, switches can toggle individual effects for stomp-style operation.

It’s a great idea to download the free BOSS Tone Studio app for Mac/PC, where you can edit patches and gain access to even more effects connected to your computer over USB-C. All considered, the ME-90 is simply a great deal, as you’re not paying for a big color display. If you’re more of a traditionalist when it comes to effects, but want the convenience of an all-in-one unit with expanded sonic capability, this one should be near the top of your list.

Fender Tone Master Pro Multi-Effects Pedal

Why It’s Cool: Designed with the serious player in mind, Fender’s Tone Master Pro combines an immensely detailed, high-fidelity sonic fingerprint with an intuitive interface and comprehensive I/O for seamless rig integration.    

Things to Consider:

• Eight-core architecture handles dense patches and preset changes with ease
• Large 7" full-color touch display
• Over 100 top amps and effects

Pictured: Fender Tone Master Pro Guitar Multi-Effects Processor

Fender first applied the Tone Master moniker to a beastly 100W tube head in the early ’90s, reprising the nomenclature again in 2019 with a lauded lineup of solid-state, DSP-powered amps noted for their realistic, tube-like tone. Now, the Tone Master Pro is a complete multi-effects guitar processor for professional musicians and passionate hobbyists alike, containing over 100 meticulously modeled amplifiers and effects—including many of Fender’s own celebrated creations from yesterday and today. Among classics such as the beloved mid-60s Deluxe Reverb, high-gain enthusiasts will appreciate the Tone Master Pro’s EVH 5150 III Stealth emulation—the first officially licensed digital model available.

Building presets with the Tone Master Pro is a breeze, thanks to its 7" touchscreen and 10 custom footswitch-encoders. Even making last-minute adjustments in the heat of a gig is fast and intuitive, so you’ll never feel hindered by this unit’s operability. When it’s time to dig deep, load up the cross-platform Tone Master Pro Control app to explore every parameter in detail, save your favorite presets and download tones created by Fender’s community of players. The Fender Tone Master Pro is a premier multi-effects pedal from the masterminds behind many of the greatest amplifiers in history. And really, who would know them better?

HeadRush Core Multi-Effects Processor

Why It’s Cool: HeadRush Core is a complete solution for stellar guitar sounds, doubling as a robust vocal processor for singers who experiment with real-time effects.

Things to Consider:

• Built-in Antares Auto-Tune for vocalists
• 7" touch interface and five footswitches
• Effects suite regularly expanded with firmware updates

Pictured: Kemper Profiler Amp Modeling and Multi-Effects Pedal

The HeadRush Core is a one-stop creation station, loaded with lifelike amplifier, effect, speaker cabinet and microphone models, in addition to dozens of factory presets by the talented sound designers at ChopTones. It shines as a comprehensive rig replacement for guitarists and bassists, and the Core’s additional vocal processing capabilities make it one of the most versatile units we’ve seen. With onboard Antares Auto-Tune and a full suite of vocal processors, singers can take the studio or stage having full confidence in their sound.

HeadRush Core also allows you to effortlessly “clone” your own equipment—an onscreen wizard walks you through the steps of capturing impulse responses of amps, pedals and more. The unit grows with your collection, while routine firmware updates via Wi-Fi or USB expand the effects arsenal over time, too. You can even connect to the HeadRush Cloud to download new clones and presets, so there’s no shortage of tonal possibilities when it comes to the Core multi-effects pedal.

IK Multimedia TONEX One Modeling Amp and Distortion Effects Pedal

Why It’s Cool: IK Multimedia’s TONEX One is an unassuming sonic force, redefining the mini pedal with its inventive modeling capabilities.

Things to Consider:

• Works as an all-in-one rig, or joins crowded pedalboards with ease
• Outputs to amps, PAs, FRFR cabs or headphones
• Included software is required to edit presets

Pictured: IK Multimedia TONEX One Modeling Amp and Distortion Effects Pedal

The IK Multimedia TONEX One is a revolutionary riff on the multi-effects pedal, boasting extensive functionality in a compact stompbox chassis. TONEX One’s sonic signature stems from advanced IK Multimedia Tone Models, allowing users to play emulations of amplifiers, amps and cabs, or standalone effects like distortion, overdrive, fuzz and boost. The pedal ships with 200 premium Tone Models and lets you store up to 20 presets at a time, in any combination of amps, individual effects or complete rig models. Presets are editable via included TONEX Mac/PC software, and the pedal offers EQ, compression, gating and reverb parameters for on-the-fly tweaking. If that’s not enough, connecting to ToneNET opens up an ever-expanding library of 25,000+ Tone Models from users all over the world. But it doesn’t stop there—using included TONEX SE software, you can model your own existing rig and carry that sonic snapshot in your pocket.    

What’s more, given its ability to stack, TONEX One pedals work well in pairs. For example, you could use one pedal to play through a comprehensive rig and employ another to function solely as a boost. You can also create an immersive stereo rig using just two tiny TONEX One multi-effects stompboxes. Clearly, there’s a lot more than meets the eye in this IK Multimedia creation station—if you want unlimited tonal flexibility in a familiar format, the TONEX One delivers.

Kemper Profiler Player Amp Modeling and Multi-Effects Pedal

Why It’s Cool: The Kemper Profiler Player captures the unmistakable character of iconic amplifiers and effects, both past and present, putting them at your feet.

Things to Consider:

• Famed Kemper profiling delivers ultraresponsive tube amp modeling
• Up to four simultaneous effect blocks
• Designed and made in Germany

Pictured: Kemper Profiler Amp Modeling and Multi-Effects Pedal

Kemper debuted the flagship Profiling Amplifier in 2011, marking a seismic shift in digital modeling technology for the time. It was initially touted as one of the few modelers to wholly and accurately replicate the unique gain structure and dynamic responsiveness of real tube amps, and players of all styles have considered Kemper profiling to be among the best in the biz.

The sleek Kemper Profiler Player pedal is a powerful little sibling of the original processor, harnessing current Liquid Profile modeling technology to put stunningly authentic sonic snapshots of legendary amps at your feet. Explore the vast and evolving library of free and commercial amp profiles, and load up any you wish—timeless tones from Fender, Marshall, MESA/Boogie and more are all available. Onboard effects include compression, gating, EQ, wah, reverb, delay, modulation and pitch shifting, and you can combine up to four of them at a time in addition to the amp module. If uncompromising authenticity is what you seek from a multi-effects modeling pedal, then the Kemper Profiler Player is up your alley.

Line 6 POD Go Guitar Multi-Effects Processor

Why It’s Cool: The gig-friendly Line 6 POD Go is an ultracompact multi-effects pedalboard featuring the same acclaimed HX modeling technology found in the brand’s flagship Helix processors.   

Things to Consider:

• Approachable control array with 4.3" LCD
• 4x4, 24-bit/96kHz audio interface built in
• Semi-fixed serial signal path moderately restricts routing

Pictured: Line 6 POD Go Multi-Effects Processor

Hit the road with the Line 6 POD Go, and bring a complete fleet of amplifier, speaker cabinet and effect models with you whenever and wherever the stage beckons. Capable of sliding into a gig bag, backpack or custom shoulder sling (sold separately), the unobtrusive POD Go may be small, but it’s fierce.

Powered by proprietary Line 6 HX modeling tech, this multi-effects pedal contains nearly 300 individual components to assemble your dream rig, including iconic amps like the Fender Deluxe Reverb, Marshall Plexi and countless others. As a plug-and-play device, preset creation is a no-brainer, flattening the tedious learning curve of many modelers entirely. Select and arrange blocks quickly and intuitively using its semi-fixed serial signal path, 4.3" color LCD and tactile rotary encoders. Additionally, Snapshots let you save up to four variations of a preset under one patch, so you can dance between tones with zero latency or audio dropouts.

On the hardware side, eight footswitches with color LEDs provide a visual indication of status and assigned function, so you’ll never lose track of where you’re at on a dimly lit stage. Despite its compact footprint, the Line 6 POD Go also features an onboard expression pedal, with the option to connect an additional one for extra control. Speaking of I/O, this multi-effects processor has all the essentials—stereo outputs, a dedicated amp out before the cabinet/IR in the signal path, an FX loop, headphone jack and USB port for direct audio interfacing.

Line 6 POD Go Wireless Guitar Multi-Effects Processor

Why It’s Cool: This Line 6 POD pedal doubles down on the “go” factor, incorporating an onboard wireless system for totally untethered playing.  

Things to Consider:

• Sonically and functionally identical to the standard POD Go
• Guitar input recharges Relay G10TII wireless transmitter when not in use
• Slightly more expensive than the wired version

Pictured: Line 6 POD Go Wireless Guitar Multi-Effects Processor

The legacy of the Line 6 POD continues with the series’ Go Wireless multi-effects pedal. In 2018, the Line 6 Helix LT floorboard processor won a NAMM TEC Award for its ingenuity and performance. Combining the HX sound engine, signature POD portability and the flexibility of pedalboard units in the wired POD Go was brilliant. Building wireless capability into that package is a stroke of genius.

The Line 6 POD Go Wireless brings a complete Relay system to the party for a cable-free connection on any stage. This unit enables you to tastefully steal the show without worry of getting tangled up or disconnecting your instrument. The included Relay G10TII transmitter is discreetly stashed beneath the expression pedal on the I/O side of the POD Go Wireless for convenient, integrated storage. While not in use, you can use the standard guitar input jack to charge the transmitter back to full juice, so it’s always ready to go when you are.

At its core, the Line 6 POD Go Wireless is a rig that can truly go anywhere. Leave the instrument cables at home—grab your POD Go Wireless and guitar, and rock the stage.

Line 6 HX Stomp Multi-Effects Processor

Why It’s Cool: Big-time processing power with a seriously small footprint means the Line 6 HX Stomp could be your ultimate on-the-go multi-effects unit.

Things to Consider:

• 300+ amps, cabs and effects—including a looper
• Free HX Edit app for comprehensive control
• SHARC audio engine accurately emulates classic and modern amplifiers/effects

Pictured: Line 6 HX Stomp Multi-Effects Pedal

The Line 6 HX Stomp is an ultracompact member of the Helix family, boasting hundreds of amplifier, speaker cabinet and effect emulations, each meticulously crafted to model the behavior of their real-world counterpart down to the component level. You can program up to six simultaneous blocks for plenty of tonal versatility, whether you’re dialing in a vibey clean sound, a reverb-drenched lead patch or a crunchy, articulate rhythm.

With stereo 1/4" ins and outs, an effects loop, MIDI I/O, USB connectivity, a headphone output and a dedicated expression jack, the HX Stomp fits into any existing setup or stands on its own as an all-in-one rig for guitar and bass. Toss this pedal in your gig bag, and take studio-grade tones with you wherever you roam. The Line 6 HX Stomp is an ideal introduction to the Helix ecosystem, and you can take advantage of HX Edit software for deeper tone tweaking from your computer.

Line 6 Helix Multi-Effects Pedal

Why It’s Cool: The Line 6 Helix is a powerhouse multi-effects floorboard unit, with virtually limitless tonal variety and ultrahigh-quality sounds.

Things to Consider:

• Large color LCD makes it easy to navigate menus, patches and presets

• Digital scribble strips display footswitch assignments
• Onboard expression pedal

Pictured: Line 6 Helix Guitar Multi-Effects Pedal

A flagship pedal that was heralded as a game changer when it was released in 2016 is the Line 6 Helix. This top-of-the-line multi-effects unit has all the connectivity and power needed to make it a star both on stage and in the studio. With over 200 amps, cabs and effects, and 12 virtual microphones, there’s enough here to sculpt great tones for any style of music. Dual SHARC DSP chips mean enough raw processing power is available that, along with Line 6’s clever dynamic DSP coding, it’s hard to run up against the limits of what’s possible.

In addition, there’s a massive array of connectivity. This includes 1/4" analog, balanced TRS, XLR and full digital I/O; no fewer than four effects loops; plugs for two additional expression pedals; and the ability to switch channels on most amps that use a TRS footswitch. It’s clear that the Helix was designed to slot into any playing environment. For recording applications, there’s also an 8-in/8-out USB audio interface. All told, the Line 6 Helix is part of a small group of gold-standard modelers for the modern guitarist.

Amp Up Your Rig With the Best Multi-Effects Pedals Today

There’s truly never been a better range of great-sounding multi-effects pedals available to guitarists than there are today. While we hesitate to call any individual unit “best,” we’re certain that, of the models presented here, you’ll find one to fit solidly into your world. To aid in your decision, you can always visit your local Guitar Center and get hands-on to narrow the selection—there’s really nothing better than experiencing these multi-effects pedals yourself.