The Orange Crush 35RT is my pick for players who want simple controls, built-in drive, and an effects loop. Check its low-volume feel with your guitar before buying it for a small room.
The BOSS TU-3 is my first pick for a working pedalboard. Choose the Peterson StroboClip HDC for fine tuning without a cable, or the Snark ST-8 for a simple clip-on.
The BOSS RC-5 gives most players the best room to grow, with saved loops and drum patterns. Pick the TC Electronic Ditto for bare-bones practice, or the EHX 720 for a separate stop switch.
BOSS BD-2 Blues Driver. Photo: El Grafo, CC BY-SA 4.0. Resized and converted to WebP.
The BOSS BD-2 Blues Driver is my first pick for a broad range of drive sounds. Choose the Ibanez TS9 for a focused mid push, or the EHX Soul Food for low-gain boost duties.
Build a rig that makes you play.
Start with a guitar in tune, an amp you like, and one sound worth chasing. Our guides cover the small choices that help: a clear note, a tight loop, and just enough grit.