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10 Best Modulation Pedals.
Let's dive into the world of "Modulation" pedals and explore what they have to offer. In this list, we'll be offering up our Top Ten Modulation pedals, including Chorus, Vibrato, Phaser, Flanger, and Tremolo pedals. If you're unfamiliar with these terms we have brief rundown below. Similar to our previous "10 best" lists, all the pedals mentioned here are readily available on the market, so you won't find any vintage, rare, or discontinued models. As always, I'll provide a brief description and reasoning for choosing each pedal. Enjoy the ride!
Modulation Pedal Rundown
Chorus - Chorus creates a lush, shimmering sound by duplicating the guitar signal, altering the pitch of one of the signals slightly, and then blending it back with the original. This process simulates the sound of multiple instruments playing the same part.
Flanger - Flanger produces a swirling, whooshing effect by duplicating the guitar signal, delaying one of the signals, and then modulating the delay time. This creates a sweeping, jet-like sound.
Tremolo - Tremolo modulates the volume of the guitar signal at a regular rate, creating a pulsating or rhythmic effect. It is achieved by varying the amplitude of the signal.
Vibrato - Vibrato modulates the pitch of the guitar signal, creating a subtle, regular variation in pitch. It is often confused with tremolo, but vibrato specifically affects pitch, not volume.
Phaser - Phaser splits the guitar signal into two paths, modulates one path by varying its phase, and then blends it back with the original. This creates a swirling, sweeping effect.
10. MXR Micro Chorus Modulation Pedal
The MXR Micro Chorus, a remarkable pedal that entered the scene in 1982. A testament to the idea that simplicity can be powerful. Its elegantly minimalist design, coupled with user-friendly operation, makes it an enduring choice for guitarists seeking a reliable, user-friendly, and great-sounding chorus pedal.
9. Boss TR-2 Temolo Modulation Pedal
Tremolo effects first emerged in early tube amps like Fender and Vox. However, lugging around a vintage Twin Reverb or Super Reverb to a gig isn't exactly convenient. That's where the Boss TR-2 comes in, making tremolo accessible and portable. With controls for Rate, Depth, and Wave Shape, dialing in fantastic tremolo sounds is a breeze.
8. Walrus Julia Chorus Modulation Pedal
Warlus was started by Colt Westbrook and is a boutique pedal company out of Oklahoma. The Julia Chorus is based loosely on a Boss CE-2 and features a D-V-C (Dry-Vibrato-Chorus) knob that really opens up a lot of tonal possibilities. This knob blends the dry signal into the amount of chorus eventually removing the dry completely leaving you with vibrato. A very unique and interesting sound.
7. Walrus Monument Harmonic Tremolo Modulation Pedal
Another unique mod pedal from Walrus is the Monument. This is a harmonic Tremolo modulation effect with plenty of knobs for changing the shape of the waveform. What makes this pedal truly unique is the tap tempo to dial in the speed of the tremolo. All of this is a single-pedal footprint! Incredible! Go get one!
6. Strymon Flint Tremolo & Reverb Modulation Pedals
As mentioned earlier, vintage amplifiers were the birthplace of tremolo effects, and the Strymon Flint pays homage to those legendary amps of yesteryear. This pedal, which also makes an appearance on our "10 best reverb Pedals" list, offers three distinct tremolo types: '61 Harmonic, '63 Power Tube, and '65 Photo Cell. Additional controls for Intensity and Speed, along with a Tap/Favorite switch for tap-tempo, add to its versatility
5. Strymon Mobius Multi-Effect Modulation Pedal
The Strymon Mobius is a modulation powerhouse. With its digital readout, twelve modulation types, 200 presets, and MIDI connectivity, this pedal is a true force to be reckoned with. It also offers stereo ins and outs, and its Right in and Right out can serve as an effects loop, allowing you to position the modulation effects pre or post drive pedals. The pedal surface features a tap-tempo pedal and bank up/down functions, making it remarkably versatile. With such an intuitive user interface, there's not much this pedal can't do.
4. MXR Uni-Vibe Chorus/Vibrato Modulation Pedal
Emulating an effect immortalized by the iconic Jimi Hendrix is sure to ignite excitement among guitarists, and the MXR Uni-Vibe does precisely that. In a market saturated with various uni-vibes, this specific model stands out by closely replicating the enchanting essence of the original magic.
3. Electro Harmonix Electric Mistress Flanger / Chorus Pedal
The Electro Harmonix Eletric Mistress showed up on countess police recordings, played by Andy Summers. David Gilmore made use of it on Pink Floyd records as well. While original versions of this pedal fetch a hefty price, fear not, as Electro-Harmonix continues to produce them. The Electric Mistress features controls for Rate, Flanger Depth, and Chorus Depth, allowing you to shape its versatile and captivating sound.
2. MXR Phase 90 Phaser Modulation Pedal
When people think of Van Halen, the classic sound of the he MXR Phase 90 is what they hear in their heads. A true classic that helped shape one of the most iconic hard-rock guitar tones ever heard. There are a few versions of this on the market today. The Script logo variant aims to capture the essence of the original Phase 90, reminiscent of its past glory. The Block logo represents the modern rendition, incorporating contemporary enhancements. Notably, Eddie Van Halen's signature version combines both modes, accessible with a simple press of a small button. The MXR Phase 90 remains a beloved choice for guitarists seeking that signature phasing sound.
1. Boss CE-2W Chorus Modulation Pedal
The final pedal to make the list—the Boss CE-2W chorus pedal. The roots of the chorus effect can be traced back to the Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus amplifier. Boss, under Roland's ownership, first introduced this effect in pedal form. The initial incarnation was the CE-1 in 1976, a sizeable pedal with an attached power cord. Later, in 1979, Boss unveiled the CE-2, the world's first compact chorus stompbox. The CE-2W pays homage to these groundbreaking pedals by offering modes for both the CE-1 and CE-2. Throughout history, the CE-1 and CE-2 have been widely imitated, making them the most duplicated chorus pedals of all time. The CE-2W's enclosure closely resembles the original, solidifying its position at the top of the list.
Conclusion
If you have a penchant for all things warbly and immersive, you would do well to explore any or all of the pedals mentioned above. As guitarists know all too well, the allure of new pedals is irresistible, and the quest for the perfect sound is an ongoing pursuit. So, rock on and continue to expand your sonic horizons with these remarkable modulation pedals! because we all know there is no such thing as "just one more pedal". So, rock on and continue to expand your sonic horizons with these remarkable modulation pedals!
