For guitarists, Top reverb pedals for guitar is an essential tool for adding depth, warmth, and dimension to their sound. Whether you’re aiming for subtle ambiance or vast, ethereal soundscapes, a reverb pedal can take your tone to new heights. This guide explores the best reverb pedals for guitar, offering practical tips on how to use reverb pedals effectively and covering 7 standout models for every budget and style.
How to Use Reverb Pedals Effectively
1. Place the Reverb in the Right Signal Chain Position
Generally, place your reverb pedal last in the signal chain, especially if you use overdrive, delay, or modulation effects. This positioning preserves the natural quality of the reverb and keeps it from overwhelming other effects. This setup also shines in live performance, giving the reverb room to “breathe” in the final sound mix.
2. Experiment with Reverb Types for Your Genre
Different reverb types work best for different styles. For example, spring reverb is ideal for surf rock, blues, and vintage tones, while plate and hall reverbs add lushness to ambient or indie styles. For guitarists looking to experiment, a versatile pedal like the TC Electronic Hall of Fame 2 offers multiple types and lets you explore effects from subtle ambiance to intense, modulated reverb
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3. Use Reverb Pedals with Expression Control for Dynamic Play
For on-the-fly control, expression pedals let you control parameters like decay, mix, or tone, making them perfect for live shows. Pedals with expression input, like the EarthQuaker Devices Astral Destiny, are perfect for ambient players looking to create swells and shifts in reverb depth
7 Top Reverb Pedals for Guitar in 2024
1. Strymon BigSky
- Type: Multi-function reverb pedal
- Best For: Versatile, cinematic sounds
- Features: 12 reverb modes, MIDI control, presets
- Price: High-end
The Strymon BigSky is renowned for its expansive, studio-quality sounds and multiple reverb algorithms like Cloud and Shimmer. With its deep customization options and pristine tone quality, it’s a top Top reverb pedals for guitar for ambient guitarists. It’s pricier than many, but ideal for players seeking full control over their reverb tones
2. TC Electronic Hall of Fame 2
- Type: Multi-reverb with TonePrint technology
- Best For: Versatile, high-quality reverb tones
- Features: TonePrint customization, MASH expression switch
- Price: Mid-range
The Hall of Fame 2 combines simplicity with versatility, offering classic reverb types and the ability to load artist-made TonePrints via USB or smartphone. Its MASH footswitch acts as an expression pedal, giving you more dynamic control over the effect—perfect for live settings
3. Electro-Harmonix Oceans 11
- Type: Multi-function, compact reverb
- Best For: Players needing a versatile, affordable reverb
- Features: 11 reverb modes, including Echo and Reverse
- Price: Mid-range
The Oceans 11 packs a variety of reverb types into a small pedal, from traditional options like hall and spring to more experimental sounds. Its secondary features (accessed by holding down the footswitch) allow for added depth, making it an affordable choice with plenty of versatility
4. Boss RV-6
- Type: Multi-reverb, compact
- Best For: Reliable, stage-ready performance
- Features: Multiple reverb types, stereo input/output
- Price: Mid-range
Boss’s RV-6 pedal is a versatile reverb workhorse. It’s compact, durable, and straightforward to use, making it a top reverb pedals for guitar among gigging musicians. Its subtle-to-expansive reverb modes offer flexibility while retaining clarity on stage
5. MXR Reverb
- Type: Multi-function reverb
- Best For: Simple, high-quality tones
- Features: Six reverb modes including Epic and Plate
- Price: Mid-range
The MXR Reverb keeps things simple with six well-crafted reverb modes and intuitive controls. It’s a great option for players who want a high-quality reverb without getting overwhelmed by settings
6. Walrus Audio Slö
- Type: Ambient-focused reverb
- Best For: Dreamy, modulated soundscapes
- Features: Dark, Rise, and Dream modes, modulation control
- Price: Mid- to high-end
For ambient or shoegaze players, the Walrus Audio Slö provides lush, modulated reverbs. Its unique modes like Rise and Dream create immersive textures, perfect for crafting atmospheric tones
7. EarthQuaker Devices Astral Destiny
- Type: Modulated octave reverb
- Best For: Ambient and experimental sounds
- Features: 8 reverb modes, expression input, stretch feature
- Price: Mid-range
The Astral Destiny stands out with its eight reverb modes and built-in octave effect, offering plenty of options for creative soundscapes. Its stretch feature (momentarily extending reverb tails and altering pitch) and expression pedal input make it a favorite for experimental tones
Choosing the Right Reverb Pedal for Your Style
- For Ambient and Experimental Players: Look for pedals like the Strymon BigSky and EarthQuaker Astral Destiny that allow deep customization.
- For All-Around Versatility: Multi-reverb pedals like the TC Electronic Hall of Fame 2 and Electro-Harmonix Oceans 11 provide a broad range of tones suited to various genres and playstyles.
- Budget Considerations: The Boss RV-6 and MXR Reverb deliver quality sound at a reasonable price point, making them great for players who want quality without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re enhancing a clean tone with a touch of reverb or building ambient walls of sound, a top reverb pedals for guitar can dramatically elevate your guitar playing. By understanding the unique features of each pedal, you’ll be able to find the best reverb pedal for guitar that complements your sound and setup.
Join the Guitar Freaks Hangout on Discord to discuss gear setups, swap pedal recommendations, and get advice on how to use reverb pedals live. Connect with a community of players ready to help you get the most out of your setup!
Download the the Practice Playbook!
Practice Playbook is a powerful guide designed to take your guitar practice sessions to the next level. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, this playbook gives you everything you need to practice smarter, not harder. With 20 unique guitar practice prompts, 10 highly effective practice methods, and 10 expertly designed practice routines, you’ll have a structured path to real progress.
Download Now