Welcome to the Guitar Pedal Palace!
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Guitar pedals, particularly fuzz, distortion, and chorus effects, played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of numerous famous guitar songs throughout the late 80s and 90s.

Table of Contents

  1. Fuzz: Jimi Hendrix’s “Purple Haze” and later, bands like Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins, used fuzz for a raw, aggressive sound in grunge and alternative rock.
  2. Distortion: Eddie Van Halen and bands like Guns N’ Roses and Metallica relied on distortion for edgy, powerful tones, defining hard rock and metal.
  3. Chorus: U2 and Nirvana used chorus effects to add a dreamy, spacious quality to their songs, creating distinctive sounds.

These pedals weren’t just tools; they were instruments of innovation, influencing music across genres and leaving a lasting impact.

Fun Fact: In the late 80s and 90s, when touring musicians needed to carry their beloved guitar pedals on the road, they often turned to mini guitar pedals for their compact size.

They continue to shape the music we hear today.

The Small Clone gives THE classic analog chorus sound, and the quality is definitely up to par with so many records that feature chorus on the guitar.

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DS1 DS2 Distortion by BOSS
Distortion Dynamic Recommended

The DS1 Distortion is the perfect distortion. It has a versatile and piercing tone range that boosts any sound!

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Classics: Ibanez Tubescreamer
Distortion Mini Classic

The Ibanez Tube Screamer, in its many versions and forms, can be found on pedal boards in every corner of the globe, on arena stages, in small studios, and bedrooms. Its warm overdrive is a sound many players, from advanced to beginner, could never do without.

Essential FX

A wide ranging list of guitar pedal effects for every guitarist’s ear!

Distortion
Micro Amp
Reverb
Compression
Chorus
Phaser

Guides

In-depth reviews of Marshall Amplifiers, Half-stacks, and Beginner & Professional Tube Amps

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Classics: Top 10 Most Famous Guitar Amplifiers and their Music History

UPDATED JANUARY 11, 2023

by Michelle Ma and Sarah Bogdan

Learn the history of some of the most iconic guitar amps, from Marshall stacks to Fender Tweed – uncover why tube amplifiers still remain a timeless favorite! We explore the history of 10 famous guitar amps from Marshall to Vox!

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How to Add Effects to Vocals!

UPDATED FEBRUARY 12, 2023

by Sarah Bogdan

Are you shopping for your first guitar amp? Get the lowdown on Marshall amplifiers and discover which type is right for your sound. Find out what separates classic amps from modern ones and how a half-stack could improve your tone!

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Songwriting Tips For Musicians

UPDATED APRIL 9, 2022

by Rachel Cericola and Liam McCabe

Learn the basics of tube amplifiers and how they work. Explore their range in guitar gear, effects, and tones they offer, and why you might want one for your next gig.

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The Best Rock Songs of the ’80s

UPDATED JANUARY 11, 2023

by Katie Okamoto

Take a trip down memory lane with us and get ready to rock! We analyze the best songs, riffs, and solos from iconic 80s bands like KISS, Reo Speedwagon, and the Pixies.

Reviews

Compression, Analog FX, Distortion, or see our mini effects guides!

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How to Set Up A Pedalboard

UPDATED March 23, 2023

by Lauren Dragoon

Find out how to get the most out of your pedals with our step-by-step guide on setting up your pedalboard and how to order it. Get the perfect guitar effects tone today!

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What Are Organ FX Pedals?

UPDATED February 23, 2022

by Robby K

Want your guitar to sound like a real organ? Check out this list of the top pedals and effects that will help you create an amazing, authentic whistling sound.

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The Best Fuzz Pedals

UPDATED March 11, 2023

by Taylor R and Justin Krajeski

Need more punch in your sound? Learn about the best guitar fuzz pedals available to give you that extra creative edge. Let’s take a look at how these effects can help boost your songwriting and recording efforts!

Guitarist Gifts

The best gifts for beginners musicians, band-mates, friends, and family! Most Gift Baskets Are Terrible. These Are Great.

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The Best Guitar Patch Cables for Guitarist

UPDATED JANUARY 11, 2023

by Gabriella Gershenson, Anna Perling, and Wirecutter Staff

Looking for the perfect gift for a guitar-loving musician? We’ve got you covered – from amplifiers to pedalboards to pedals, we have all the latest gear and the best gifts for guitarists.

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The Best Guitar Gear, Amplifiers & Pedals for Musicians

UPDATED JUNE 15, 2022

by Christine Ryan

Get creative this holiday season with the guitar player in your life. From beginner pedals to tube amplifiers, we’ve got the perfect gear and gifts for guitarists of all styles!

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The Gifts We Want to Give in 2022

UPDATED OCTOBER 10, 2023

by Hannah Morrill and Wirecutter Staff

Is there a guitarist in your life? Check out this guide to find the perfect music gifts for guitarists – from amplifiers and pedalboards to effects amps and more.

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Let’s Jam!

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