The placement of the EQ pedal in the signal chain is crucial to achieving the desired effect.

EQ pedals can be placed before or after distortion pedals, and each placement will produce a different result.

When placed before distortion pedals, EQ pedals can be used to shape the guitar’s tone before it’s distorted. When placed after distortion pedals, EQ pedals can be used to fine-tune the tone of the distorted signal.

Choosing the right guitar EQ pedal can be a daunting task.

It’s important to consider factors like the number of bands, the range of frequencies, and the overall build quality.

A good EQ pedal should be able to provide a wide range of tonal options without adding any unwanted noise or coloration to the signal.

When selecting an EQ pedal, it’s also important to consider how it will fit into your existing pedal chain. A poorly placed EQ pedal can have a negative impact on the overall tone of the guitar.

It’s essential to experiment with different placements to find the optimal position for the EQ pedal.

Overall, guitar EQ pedals are an essential tool for any guitarist looking to shape their tone.

By carefully selecting the right EQ pedal and experimenting with placement in the signal chain, guitarists can achieve the perfect tone for any playing style or genre.

Best Guitar EQ Pedals

Whether you’re a professional musician or just starting out, having the right guitar EQ pedal can make all the difference in your sound.

EQ pedals are designed to help you shape your tone by boosting or cutting certain frequencies.

With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the best guitar EQ pedals available today.

Check it out below!

MXR M108S 10 Band Graphic EQ Analog Guitar Effect Pedal + Cables

If you’re looking for a versatile and powerful EQ pedal that can help you shape your guitar sound, the MXR M108S is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Offers precise control over 10 guitar-centric frequencies, allowing you to dial in your desired tone with ease.
• Works well with bass, keyboards, or any other electric or electronic instrument, making it a versatile tool for any musician.
• Offers 10 carefully chosen frequencies to cut or boost up to ±12dB
• Bright LEDs provide high visibility, even in direct sunlight
• Two outputs for running two separate signal chains
• Includes 2 instrument cables and 2 patch cables, which is a nice bonus.

Cons

• The illuminated sliders can be a bit too bright on stage, which may be distracting for some players.
• The pedal is a bit on the expensive side, which may not be ideal for players on a tight budget.
• Some users have reported issues with the LED lights burning out over time, which can be frustrating.
• 18-volt operation requires a specific wall adapter
• The lights are quite bright, which might be distracting on a dark stage
• It’s a bit pricey compared to some other EQ pedals on the market

The MXR M108S is a great choice for anyone who takes their tone seriously and wants to have full control over their sound. However, the bright sliders and high price tag may be turn-offs for some players. 

With its 10 frequencies and input/output level controls, you can easily create earthshaking low-end, restore punch and treble response to a crowded pedalboard, warm up an amplified acoustic, and much more. The added noise-reduction circuitry and true bypass switching also make it a reliable and high-quality option for any guitarist or bassist.

One of the biggest advantages of this pedal is its dual-channel output, which allows you to run two separate signal chains and really customize your sound. 

If you’re looking for a versatile EQ pedal that can help you tune your bass or guitar rig to any room in seconds, the MXR Ten Band EQ Guitar Effects Pedal is a great option.

EX 7 Band EQ Equalizer Mini Guitar Pedal Mini EQ

If you’re in the market for a versatile and affordable EQ pedal, the EX 7 Band EQ Equalizer Mini Guitar Pedal Mini EQ is a great option.

With its powerful +/- 15 db range and seven easy-to-use sliders, this pedal is perfect for accurate tone shaping in almost any circumstance.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and fit onto any pedalboard
• Bright LED and quiet true bypass electronic switching for flexibility and ease of use on stage or in a studio
• Overall gain control provides even more flexibility for shaping your tone

Cons

• May distort a bit when turning any of the bands all the way up
• Some users have reported difficulty telling the difference between the three reverbs
• Not the most high-end or feature-packed EQ pedal on the market

The EX 7 Band EQ Equalizer Mini Guitar Pedal Mini EQ is a versatile rig device that can be used to correct problems in a live setting or for adding a little extra kick for soloing.

It’s housed in a compact, die-cast box with 1/4 inch input and output jacks and an AC adapter input on the top of the unit. The pedal uses a standard 9-volt negative tip power supply, or you can add a daisy chain to run multiple pedals from the one power supply source (adapter not included).

Overall, the EX 7 Band EQ Equalizer Mini Guitar Pedal Mini EQ is a great option for guitarists who want a versatile and affordable EQ pedal that can help them shape their tone to their liking.

While it may not be the most high-end or feature-packed EQ pedal on the market, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking to add some extra flexibility to their rig.

Boss GE-7 7-band EQ Pedal

If you’re looking for a versatile EQ pedal to control your guitar sound and eliminate feedback, the Boss GE-7 is a solid choice.

Pros

• The seven bands of EQ allow for complete control over your guitar sound.
• The boost/cut of +/- 15dB per band is ideal for guitar sounds.
• The pedal is well-built and durable.

Cons

• The small sliders are too easy to move and don’t “click” into place except at 0 dB.
• The pedal may not be suitable for those looking for a harsher or dirtier tone.
• The pedal may not be necessary for those already using amps with built-in EQ controls.

The Boss GE-7 is a must-have for guitarists who want complete control over their sound.

The seven bands of EQ and boost/cut options allow for endless tonal possibilities. However, the small sliders can be a bit finicky and the pedal may not be necessary for those already using amps with built-in EQ controls.

Overall, the Boss GE-7 is a solid choice for guitarists looking for a versatile EQ pedal to take their sound to the next level.

MXR Six Band EQ Guitar Effects Pedal

If you’re looking for an EQ pedal that covers all the essential guitar frequencies and allows for incredible control over your sound, the MXR Six Band EQ is a great choice.

Pros

• Cut or boost six different frequencies up to ±18dB
• LEDs provide high visibility, even in direct sunlight
• Low noise floor

Cons

• May be too limited for some users who require more bands
• May not be suitable for those who prefer digital effects
• May not be ideal for those who require a lot of gain boost

The MXR Six Band EQ is a great choice for guitarists who want to shape their tone with precision. It’s easy to use, and its six bands cover the essential guitar frequencies.

The sliders are responsive and provide up to ±18dB of cut or boost, so you can dial in the perfect sound for your playing style. The LEDs are bright and easy to see, even in direct sunlight, which makes it easy to adjust your settings on stage.

The low noise floor ensures that you won’t introduce unwanted noise into your signal chain.

While the MXR Six Band EQ is versatile and easy to use, it may not be suitable for everyone.

Some users may require more bands to achieve the sound they’re looking for, and others may prefer digital effects over analog.

Additionally, the MXR Six Band EQ may not be ideal for those who require a lot of gain boost, as it doesn’t provide as much gain as some other EQ pedals on the market.

Overall, the MXR Six Band EQ is a great choice for guitarists who want to shape their tone with precision.

If you’re looking for an EQ pedal that covers all the essential guitar frequencies and allows for incredible control over your sound, the MXR Six Band EQ is definitely worth checking out.

Caline CP-81 10 Band EQ Guitar Effect Pedal with Volume/Gain V3.0

If you’re looking for an affordable EQ pedal with a wide range of channels, the Caline CP-81 is a great option.

Pros

• The 10-band EQ with added volume channel allows for fine-tuning of your tone across a wide range of frequencies.
• The True Bypass design and aluminum alloy casing ensure durability and minimal impact on your tone when the pedal is off.
• The pedal works well not only with guitar but also with other instruments.

Cons

• The sliding buttons are somewhat fragile and may require careful handling.
• The pedal requires a 9V DC center negative power supply, which is not included.
• The CP-81 is a relatively new product with less reviews than some other options on the market.

The Caline CP-81 is a versatile EQ pedal that offers a lot of value for its price. With its wide range of channels and added volume control, it’s a great option for guitarists or other musicians looking to fine-tune their tone. However, users should be aware of the pedal’s power requirements and handle it with care to avoid damage to the sliding buttons.

Overall, the Caline CP-81 is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable and effective EQ pedal.

JOYO 6-Band EQ Pedal Electric Guitar Equalizer (JF-11)

If you’re looking for an affordable, high-quality EQ pedal that can help you fine-tune your guitar’s tone, the JOYO 6-Band EQ Pedal is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Each band provides a range of ±18dB to help you find your favorite tone.
• Highs can be boosted for more articulation in overdrive, Mids frequencies can be boosted to stand out in the mix, Lows can be cut to make things less muddy.
• True Bypass provide transparent tone to keep the best tone quality, aluminium-alloy housing classic stoving varnish finish, stable and strong.

Cons

• May produce a “pop” sound when turned on or off, which could be concerning if you’re worried about damaging your speaker.
• Some users have reported issues with the sliders not providing a smooth transition when adjusting the EQ.
• May require an additional JOYO original power adapter for optimal performance.

The JOYO 6-Band EQ Pedal is a versatile and reliable option for anyone who wants to take their guitar tone to the next level. With six frequency bands to choose from and plenty of room for customization, you can easily shape your sound to fit any style or genre.

Whether you’re playing live or recording in the studio, this pedal can help you achieve the perfect tone for your needs.

One of the best things about the JOYO 6-Band EQ Pedal is its affordability. Despite its high-quality construction and impressive features, this pedal is priced well below many other EQ pedals on the market.

This makes it a great option for anyone who wants to improve their guitar tone without breaking the bank.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality EQ pedal that won’t cost you a fortune, the JOYO 6-Band EQ Pedal is definitely worth considering.

With its versatile features, durable construction, and affordable price point, it’s a great choice for guitarists of all skill levels.

JOYO EQ Pedal 10 Band Equalizer

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly EQ pedal that works well for both bass and guitar, the JOYO EQ Pedal 10 Band Equalizer is a great choice.

Pros

• 10 band EQ pedal with frequency range from 31.25Hz to 16kHz, suitable for 4-string, 5-string bass and 6-string, 7-string guitar.
• Independent volume control knob with related LED light on each knob, making it easy to adjust the volume.
• Whole new appearance and the iconic ambience lights bring out futuristic and retro styles, displaying a perfect fusion.

Cons

• May require an extra JOYO original power adapter or a reliable brand to work properly and avoid unexpected noise.
• Reading the reviews, it seems like Amazon is lumping reviews for several JOYO pedals together in a very confusing fashion here.
• The pedal does an analog to digital conversion and does not let the actual dry signal come through in real time, instead.

The JOYO EQ Pedal 10 Band Equalizer is a versatile EQ pedal that is great for both bass and guitar players. With its 10 bands and wide frequency range, you can easily adjust your sound to get the perfect tone.

The independent volume control knob makes it easy to adjust the volume, and the iconic ambience lights add a touch of style to your performance. However, it may require an extra power adapter to work properly and avoid noise, and the reviews on Amazon can be confusing.

Overall, it’s a great budget-friendly option for those looking for a reliable EQ pedal.

Rowin Guitar Equalizer Pedal 5-band Graphic EQ Guitar Effect Pedal GT-EQ

The Rowin Guitar Equalizer Pedal is a great option for guitar players who want to shape their sound over five specific frequencies to prevent feedback caused by additional distorting effects.

Pros

• The five-band graphic EQ features a ±18 dB adjustable gain range per band, allowing players to shape their sound over five specific frequencies.
• The whole aluminum-alloy housing and classic stoving varnish finish make the pedal stable and strong, as well as beautiful and practical.
• The volume knob allows for flexible volume adjustment, making it suitable for any occasion.

Cons

• The power adapter is not included and must be purchased separately.
• Some users may find the pedal a bit too small for their liking.
• There may be some slight tone loss when using the pedal, but it is minimal.

The Rowin Guitar Equalizer Pedal is a great addition to any guitar player’s setup.

The adjustable gain range and volume knob allow for precise control over the sound, while the aluminum-alloy housing ensures durability. The only downside is that the power adapter is not included, but this is a minor inconvenience.

Overall, this pedal is a decent choice for guitar players looking to shape their sound.

Caline Guitar EQ Pedal 6 Band EQ Electric Guitar Graphic Equalizer Effect Pedal True Bypass CP-71

If you’re looking for a versatile and compact EQ pedal with a true bypass, the Caline CP-71 is a great choice.

Pros

• The six frequency bands cover all the essential guitar frequencies, allowing you to find your favorite tone.
• The ±18dB range for each band provides a lot of flexibility in shaping your guitar signal.
• The LEVEL knob allows you to control the overall volume of your guitar signal.

Cons

• The pedal may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
• The small size may make it difficult to adjust the knobs while playing.
• Some users may find the frequency bands to be too narrow for their needs.

The Caline CP-71 is a great choice for guitarists who want a compact and versatile EQ pedal. The six frequency bands cover all the essential guitar frequencies, and the ±18dB range for each band provides a lot of flexibility in shaping your guitar signal.

The LEVEL knob allows you to control the overall volume of your guitar signal, making it easy to get the perfect sound. The true bypass ensures that your tone stays transparent, and the aluminum-alloy housing provides a classic stoving varnish finish that is both stable and strong.

The only downsides to this pedal are that it may not be as durable as some other options on the market, and the small size may make it difficult to adjust the knobs while playing. Additionally, some users may find the frequency bands to be too narrow for their needs.

Overall, the Caline CP-71 is a great choice for guitarists who want a versatile and compact EQ pedal that won’t break the bank.

JOYO JF-11 6 Band EQ Pedal

If you’re looking for a versatile and affordable EQ pedal, the JOYO JF-11 6 Band EQ Pedal is a great option to consider. It’s a solid value for the price, and it can help you shape your guitar’s tone in a variety of ways.

Pros

• Each band provides 18Db± range to help find favorite tone.
• Highs can be boosted for more articulation in overdrive. Mids frequencies can be boosted to stand out in the mix. Lows can be cut to make things less muddy.
• You could use it to tame a particularly bright or bassy guitar. You can use it to just generally beef up your guitar or basses tone as well.

Cons

• Not as high quality as more expensive options like Boss or MXR.
• Some users have reported noise issues when the top end is pushed too far.
• Not well packaged, with some users receiving damaged products.

The JOYO JF-11 6 Band EQ Pedal is a great choice for musicians who want a versatile and affordable EQ pedal that can help them shape their tone in a variety of ways.

Whether you’re looking to cut through the mix, beef up your tone, or tame a particularly bright or bassy guitar, this pedal can help you achieve your goals.

While it may not be as high quality as more expensive options like Boss or MXR, it’s a solid value for the price and can help you achieve great results.

One of the things that sets the JOYO JF-11 6 Band EQ Pedal apart from other EQ pedals on the market is its versatility. With six different bands, each providing an 18Db± range, you can really fine-tune your tone and find your favorite settings.

Whether you’re looking to boost the highs for more articulation in overdrive, boost the mids to stand out in the mix, or cut the lows to make things less muddy, this pedal can help you achieve your goals.

Another great thing about the JOYO JF-11 6 Band EQ Pedal is its ease of use. The controls are simple and intuitive, so you don’t need to be a tone expert to get great results.

And with its true bypass design, you can be sure that your tone will remain transparent and high-quality, with minimal tone loss.

Boss GEB-7 7-band Bass EQ Pedal

If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile bass EQ pedal, the Boss GEB-7 is a great choice that won’t disappoint.

Pros

• Seven bands of EQ to fine-tune your bass sound
• Level control knob for added volume boost
• Great for electric and upright bass with pickups

Cons

• Can be noisy with non-Boss power supply
• May take some time to dial in the perfect tone
• Not as many features as some higher-end EQ pedals

The Boss GEB-7 is a reliable and versatile bass EQ pedal that can help you fine-tune your sound to perfection.

This pedal is also great for upright bass with pickups, making it a versatile addition to any bass player’s setup.

One potential downside of the Boss GEB-7 is that it can be noisy if you use a non-Boss power supply. Additionally, it may take some time to dial in the perfect tone, especially if you’re new to using an EQ pedal.

Finally, while the GEB-7 has plenty of features to help you fine-tune your sound, it may not have as many options as some higher-end EQ pedals on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile bass EQ pedal that won’t break the bank, the Boss GEB-7 is a great choice. With its seven bands of EQ and level control knob, you’ll have plenty of options to fine-tune your sound to perfection.

VSN Bass EQ Pedal

If you’re looking for a small, portable and sturdy bass graphic equalizer pedal, the VSN Bass EQ Pedal is a great choice. It’s easy to carry and meets common frequency band requirements, making it perfect for traveling musicians.

Pros

• Adjustable gain range per band with master level control
• Sturdy and heavy-duty true bypass footswitch engages the pedal with a smooth action, without affecting the original tone
• Small and space-saving, portable for guitarists to carry

Cons

• Power adapter not included
• Not suitable for high temperature, high humidity or subzero environments
• Do not dissemble the pedal by yourself

The VSN Bass EQ Pedal is a great option for musicians who want to fine-tune their bass sound. The adjustable gain range per band with master level control allows for precise adjustments, and the sturdy and heavy-duty true bypass footswitch ensures that the pedal won’t affect the original tone.

The small and space-saving design makes it easy to carry, perfect for traveling musicians. However, the power adapter is not included and the pedal should not be used in extreme environments.

Overall, the VSN Bass EQ Pedal is a great choice for musicians looking to enhance their bass sound on the go.

Stax Guitar EQ Pedal

If you’re looking for a compact and powerful EQ pedal for your guitar, the Stax Guitar EQ Pedal is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The 5-band graphic EQ with master level control allows for precise adjustments of individual frequencies, giving you complete control over your tone.
• The ±18dB adjustable gain range per band provides ample headroom for shaping your sound and preventing feedback caused by additional distorting effects.
• The small size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around and suitable for gigs and performances.

Cons

• The pedal requires a DC 9V adapter, which is not included in the package.
• The EQ pedal may not be suitable for players who prefer a more traditional, analog sound.
• The pedal may take some time to get used to, especially for players who are new to using EQ pedals.

The Stax Guitar EQ Pedal is a great choice for guitar players who want a powerful and compact EQ pedal that can help them shape their sound with precision.

The pedal’s 5-band graphic EQ and adjustable gain range per band provide ample headroom for shaping your sound and preventing feedback, while its small size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around and suitable for gigs and performances.

While the pedal may not be suitable for players who prefer a more traditional, analog sound, it’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a powerful and versatile EQ pedal for your guitar.

JOYO High Gain Distortion Pedal from AC/DC Crunch to Heavy Metal with Full Range EQ for Electric Guitar Effect – Bypass (JF-04)

If you’re looking for a versatile distortion pedal that can handle everything from blues rock to heavy metal, the JOYO High Gain Distortion Pedal is definitely worth considering.

With a full range of EQ adjustment and tone control, this pedal is incredibly versatile and can produce the kind of hard distortion used by the bands you love, from the crunch of AC/DC to the heavy metal of Metallica.

Pros

• Produces a wide range of distortion tones, from blues rock to heavy metal
• Full range of EQ adjustment and tone control for maximum versatility
• Aluminum-alloy housing with stoving varnish finish is stable and strong

Cons

• May be noisy at high gain settings
• May require an extra JOYO original power adapter for optimal performance
• May not be suitable for players looking for a more subtle, nuanced distortion effect

The JOYO High Gain Distortion Pedal is a great choice for guitarists looking for a versatile distortion pedal that can handle a wide range of styles and tones. With its full range of EQ adjustment and tone control, this pedal is incredibly versatile and can produce everything from blues rock crunch to all-out snarling distortion.

And with its aluminum-alloy housing and stoving varnish finish, it’s built to last and withstand the rigors of the road. If you’re looking for a great distortion pedal at an affordable price, the JOYO High Gain Distortion Pedal is definitely worth checking out.

Buying Guide

Choosing the best guitar EQ pedal can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. However, with the right information, you can make an informed decision and get the best product that suits your needs. Here are some factors to consider when buying a guitar EQ pedal:

Frequency Range

The frequency range is an essential feature to consider when choosing a guitar EQ pedal. The wider the frequency range, the more control you have over the sound of your guitar. Most guitar EQ pedals have a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz, which is the standard range. However, some pedals have a wider frequency range, which can be beneficial if you want to achieve a specific sound.

Number of Bands

The number of bands is another critical factor to consider when buying a guitar EQ pedal. The more bands a pedal has, the more control you have over the sound of your guitar. Most guitar EQ pedals have either five or ten bands. However, some pedals have more than ten bands, which can be beneficial if you want to fine-tune your sound.

Build Quality

The build quality of a guitar EQ pedal is also an essential factor to consider. You want a pedal that is well-built and can withstand the rigors of live performances. Look for pedals made of durable materials such as metal, and avoid those made of plastic.

Brand Reputation

Brand reputation is another factor to consider when buying a guitar EQ pedal. Stick to well-known brands that have a good reputation for producing high-quality pedals. You can also read reviews from other guitarists to get an idea of the quality of the product.

Price

Price is also an essential factor to consider when buying a guitar EQ pedal. Set a budget and stick to it, but don’t compromise on quality. There are many affordable options available that offer excellent sound quality and features.

Brand	Model	Number of Bands	Price	Rating
BOSS	GE-7	7	See current price	4.5/5
MXR	10-Band EQ	10	See current price	4.6/5
Tech 21	QStrip	6	See current price	4.7/5

When choosing a guitar EQ pedal, consider the frequency range, number of bands, build quality, brand reputation, and price. Stick to well-known brands and choose products with good reviews. With the right guitar EQ pedal, you can achieve the sound you want and take your playing to the next level.