As a passionate musician or aspiring guitarist, you’re probably on the hunt for ways to enhance and refine your sound.
To that end, I’ve compiled a comprehensive overview of the 20 best phaser pedals in 2024.
Phaser pedals, after all, are one of the most desirable accessories that provide texture and depth to your music, redefining it all together with their celestial swoosh.
If you’re serious about music or have just begun exploring this arena, investing in an excellent phaser pedal can significantly expand your sonic palette.
But with so many options floating around in the market, finding ‘the one’ can seem daunting.
That’s why I’m here – to guide you through each step so you can make an informed choice about which phaser pedal suits your specific needs the best.
The 20 Best Phaser Pedals in 2024
If you’re a guitarist or a music lover seeking to add a mesmerizing, swirling sound to your playing, then you need a high-quality phaser pedal.
Phaser pedals have been an essential tool in the guitar world for decades, allowing guitarists to create an immersive and atmospheric tone.
In this article, I will introduce you to the best phaser pedals available in 2024, considering factors such as sound quality, versatility, and durability.
Dunlop MXR Phase 90 M101
The Dunlop MXR Phase 90 M101 is a classic and versatile phaser pedal that has been a popular choice among guitarists for decades.
Its simple yet effective design allows for easy control over the intensity and speed of the phase effect.
The pedal features a single control knob, labeled “Speed,” which adjusts the rate at which the phase effect cycles. This makes it incredibly user-friendly and quick to dial in your desired sound.
One of the standout features of the MXR Phase 90 is its iconic “Script” switch. This switch toggles between two distinct versions of the Phase 90 circuitry, providing different tonal options.
The vintage “Script” mode emulates the original early ’70s model, delivering a warm and smooth phase effect that adds depth to your tone without overpowering it. On the other hand, the modern mode offers a slightly brighter and more pronounced phase effect.
Built with durability in mind, the MXR Phase 90 M101 boasts a sturdy metal enclosure that can withstand years of rigorous use on stage or in studio settings. Its compact size also makes it ideal for pedalboards with limited real estate.
Empress Effects Phaser Pedal
The Empress Effects Phaser Pedal is a premium-quality phaser pedal that offers unparalleled sound quality and versatility. With an impressive range of features and controls, this pedal allows you to sculpt your phaser sound to perfection.
One notable feature of the Empress Effects Phaser Pedal is its ability to create up to eight stages of phase shifting.
This allows you to achieve anything from subtle swirling textures to intense jet-like sweeps. Additionally, it offers both vintage and modern voicing options, giving you even more sonic possibilities.
The pedal’s intuitive design includes simple yet effective controls such as Rate, Depth, Resonance, Treble, Mix, and Gain knobs. These controls allow you to precisely shape and customize your phaser tone to suit your musical preferences.
Built with top-quality components, the Empress Effects Phaser Pedal ensures pristine sound quality. Its true bypass design guarantees that your original guitar signal remains unaffected when the pedal is disengaged, preserving the integrity of your tone.
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Electro-Harmonix Nano Small Stone
The Electro-Harmonix Nano Small Stone is a compact and affordable phaser pedal that does not compromise on sound quality. Despite its small size, it delivers rich and organic phasing effects that will elevate your guitar playing.
Featuring a simplified control layout, the Nano Small Stone offers a single Rate knob to adjust the speed of the phase effect. This straightforward design makes it user-friendly and allows for easy experimentation with different phaser sounds.
The Nano Small Stone’s sound is characterized by luscious swirling textures that add depth and dimension to your guitar tone. It can produce everything from gentle, subtle phase shifts to more pronounced and dramatic sweeps.
Built with rugged construction, this pedal will withstand the demands of live performances or regular studio use. Its compact size also makes it an excellent option for those looking to save space on their pedalboard.
BOSS PH-3 Phase Shifter
The BOSS PH-3 Phase Shifter is another noteworthy option in the world of phaser pedals.
Designed by one of the most reputable names in guitar effects, it combines great build quality with an array of features to suit different playing styles.
One standout feature of the PH-3 is its wide range of phase effects. It offers classic stage-style phasing as well as futuristic Rise and Fall modes, which create unique swirling patterns that can take your sound to new territories.
The Step mode allows you to freeze phases, allowing for rhythmic exploration.
The PH-3 also boasts a unique “Rate” knob that doubles as a timing control in certain modes. This allows for even more precise adjustment of the phase effect, giving you complete control over your sound.
With the addition of a “Depth” knob and a user-friendly interface, this pedal is incredibly versatile and easy to use.
Like all BOSS pedals, the PH-3 is built like a tank, ensuring durability and reliability in any performance setting. Its compact size makes it a popular choice for guitarists aiming to keep their pedalboards tidy.
TC Electronic Helix Phaser
The TC Electronic Helix Phaser is an innovative phaser pedal that combines vintage sound with modern flexibility. This pedal offers an array of features that allow you to sculpt your phase effects to perfection.
Combining traditional analog technology with digital control, the Helix Phaser provides exceptional sound quality and versatility.
It offers four different phaser algorithms, each with its unique character and tonal qualities.
This includes Vintage Mode for classic ’70s phasing, Smooth Mode for more subtle phase effects, and TonePrint mode for endless customization options using TC Electronic’s TonePrint software.
The Helix Phaser also features customizable controls such as Speed, Depth, Feedback, and Mix knobs.
These allow for precise manipulation of the phase effect parameters so that you can find your ideal tone.
With its sturdy construction and compact design, the TC Electronic Helix Phaser is built to withstand the rigors of live performances.
Its true bypass ensures that your guitar’s original tone remains unharmed when disengaged from the effect chain.
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Strymon
Strymon is a renowned brand in the world of guitar effects pedals, known for their exceptional sound quality and innovative designs. Their phaser pedals are no exception, offering guitarists a wide range of tones and features to explore.
One popular option from Strymon is the Mobius Multi-Dimensional Modulation Pedal. This pedal not only includes phaser effects but also offers a variety of other modulation effects such as chorus, flanger, and tremolo.
It features 12 different modulation effect algorithms, each carefully crafted to provide unparalleled sonic versatility.
The Mobius pedal allows for deep customization with its extensive control options. You can adjust parameters like speed, depth, resonance, and more to create your perfect phaser tone.
It also offers the ability to save presets so you can easily recall your favorite settings during live performances.
Strymon pedals are known for their top-notch build quality and reliability. The Mobius is housed in a durable metal enclosure that can handle the demands of regular use on stage or in the studio.
Its compact size makes it easy to fit onto any pedalboard without taking up too much space.
If you’re looking for a phaser pedal with exceptional sound quality and versatile modulation options, Strymon is a brand you can trust.
MXR Phase 90
The MXR Phase 90 is a legendary phaser pedal that guitarists have widely used for decades.
Known for its simplicity and iconic sound, this pedal offers classic ’70s-style phasing that has become synonymous with rock music.
The Phase 90 features a single control knob that adjusts the speed of the phase effect. This simplicity makes it incredibly user-friendly, allowing you to dial in your desired tone quickly.
The pedal produces warm and swirling phase sounds that add depth and movement to your playing without overpowering your original tone.
Built with sturdy construction, MXR Phase 90 pedals are known for their durability. They can handle the demands of live performances and are built to last.
The compact size of the Phase 90 also makes it perfect for pedalboard setups with limited space.
For guitarists seeking a classic phaser sound that has stood the test of time, the MXR Phase 90 is an excellent choice.
Walrus Audio Lillian Analog Phaser Pedal
The Walrus Audio Lillian Analog Phaser Pedal is a boutique phaser pedal that offers a wide range of sonic possibilities. This pedal boasts versatile controls and unique features that make it stand out among its peers.
The Lillian pedal provides four different selectable wave shapes – Sine, Triangle, Square, and Random.
These wave shapes allow you to achieve various styles of phase effects, ranging from smooth and subtle to more pronounced and rhythmic modulations.
With its flexible controls like Rate, Width, Feedback, and D-P-V blend (which balances between dry, phase-shifted, and vibrato sounds), you can customize your phaser tone to suit your musical preferences. It even has an expression input for hands-free control over parameters such as Rate or Depth.
Walrus Audio pedals are known for their exceptional build quality, and the Lillian is no exception. It features a sturdy metal enclosure that can withstand rigorous use in live performances or studio settings. Its attractive artwork adds an aesthetic touch to your pedalboard setup as well.
If you’re after a versatile analog phaser pedal with unique features and stunning sound quality, the Walrus Audio Lillian Analog Phaser Pedal is worth considering.
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Dunlop MXR M290 Phase 95
The Dunlop MXR M290 Phase 95 is an ingenious combination of two iconic MXR phasers – Phase 45 and Phase 90. It allows you to access both vintage-flavored phase sounds in a single compact unit.
This dual-phaser offers four switchable modes: Phase 45, Phase 90, Script Mode (simulating the vintage script logo MXR Phase 90), and Script Mode with a milder tonal emphasis.
These different modes provide an extensive range of phaser tones, from subtle and warm vintage vibes to more pronounced and intense phase effects.
Built into a compact enclosure, the MXR M290 Phase 95 saves valuable real estate on your pedalboard.
Its simple control layout includes only two knobs – Speed and Script. Despite its small size, it delivers the same high-quality sound that MXR is known for.
Electro-Harmonix Nano Small Stone Phase Shifter Guitar Effects Pedal
The Electro-Harmonix Nano Small Stone is a classic phaser pedal that packs a punch in a compact size. Known for its iconic tone, this pedal delivers rich and distinctive phase effects that have made it popular among guitarists for years.
Featuring a simplified control knob labeled “Rate,” the Nano Small Stone allows for easy adjustment of the speed of the phase effect. This straightforward design makes it user-friendly and quick to dial in your preferred sound.
The Nano Small Stone produces luscious swirling textures that add depth and character to your guitar tone.
From subtle phase shifts to more pronounced sweeps, this pedal provides versatility suitable for various musical styles.
Built with Electro-Harmonix’s reputation for quality, the Nano Small Stone offers reliable performance on stage or in studio settings.
Its small footprint makes it an excellent choice for those looking to save space on their pedalboard without compromising on sound quality.
For guitarists seeking an affordable yet reliable phaser pedal with a classic sound, the Electro-Harmonix Nano Small Stone is worth considering.
Chase Bliss Audio Wombtone Analog Phaser mkII
The Chase Bliss Audio Wombtone Analog Phaser mkII is a high-end phaser pedal that offers exceptional sound quality and a wide range of options for customization.
This pedal is renowned for its advanced features and intuitive interface, making it a top choice for professional guitarists.
One of the standout features of the Wombtone MkII is its all-analog signal path, which ensures rich and warm phaser tones.
The pedal utilizes four discrete OTA-based phaser stages, providing a deep and immersive phase effect that adds depth to your playing.
The Wombtone MkII offers six different waveforms to choose from, allowing you to experiment with various phase patterns.
These waveforms include sine, triangle, sawtooth up, sawtooth down, square, and random. Each waveform brings a different flavor to your sound, giving you unprecedented control over your phaser tones.
Furthermore, this pedal offers extensive modulation options through its dip switches. These switches enable you to select between various LFO shapes and control parameters such as rate ramping and tap tempo synchronization.
This level of customization grants you the ability to tailor the phaser effect precisely to your liking.
Built with top-notch components and craftsmanship, the Wombtone MkII guarantees optimal sound quality and durability.
Its sleek design features a sturdy metal enclosure with high-quality knobs and switches that can withstand rigorous use on stage or in studio settings.
With its versatile range of controls and superb audio quality, the Chase Bliss Audio Wombtone Analog Phaser mkII is an excellent choice for those seeking professional-grade phaser effects.
Fender Bubbler Analog Chorus
The Fender Bubbler Analog Chorus is an analog chorus pedal designed to replicate the lush tones of classic ’80s chorus effects while offering modern features and versatility.
This pedal delivers rich vintage-style modulation that adds depth and dimension to your guitar sound.
The Bubbler Analog Chorus features two independent chorus circuits with selectable modes: Thick and Vintage.
The Thick mode produces warm and immersive chorus tones, perfect for fattening up your sound. On the other hand, the Vintage mode emulates the classic chorus sounds of the ’80s, providing a nostalgic vibe to your playing.
This pedal comes equipped with Rate, Depth, and Level controls that allow you to customize your chorus effect.
The Rate control adjusts the speed of modulation, while the Depth control determines the intensity of the effect.
The Level control governs the overall output volume of the pedal, allowing you to match it with your clean signal or crank it up for a more prominent chorus presence.
Built with high-quality components, the Bubbler Analog Chorus ensures exceptional sound quality and durability. Its rugged construction can withstand both live performances and studio sessions.
With its authentic vintage-inspired tones and versatile features, the Fender Bubbler Analog Chorus is an excellent choice for guitarists looking to add rich chorus effects to their arsenal.
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Pigtronix Envelope Phaser Pedal
The Pigtronix Envelope Phaser Pedal is a unique phaser that combines envelope filtering with traditional phase-shifting effects.
This pedal offers a diverse array of funky tones and dynamic modulation possibilities.
The Envelope Phaser features an intuitive interface that allows you to shape your phase tones using dedicated controls.
It includes parameters such as Speed, Depth, Resonance, Intensity, Sensitivity, and Envelope Blend.
These controls enable you to dial in everything from gentle sweeps to intense filter-sweeping psychedelic sounds.
One of the standout features of this pedal is its Auto Sweep function. When engaged, it automatically cycles through six preset sweep patterns at a rate determined by the Speed knob. This feature provides an extra dimension of movement and variation to your phaser sound.
This pedal includes an expression pedal input, which allows for dynamic real-time control over the phase effect.
This feature opens up a new world of possibilities, letting you manipulate your phase sounds as you play.
Built with high-quality components, the Pigtronix Envelope Phaser Pedal delivers exceptional audio performance and durability.
Its compact size and road-worthy design make it suitable for gigging musicians and studio professionals alike.
If you’re seeking a phaser pedal that goes beyond traditional phase-shifting effects and offers dynamic envelope filtering capabilities, the Pigtronix Envelope Phaser Pedal is a fantastic choice.
Whirlwind Rochester Series Orange Box Phaser Pedal FXORNP
The Whirlwind Rochester Series Orange Box Phaser Pedal FXORNP is an homage to the classic phaser pedals of the ’70s. This faithful recreation offers the retro swirl and vintage charm that has made these phasers legendary.
The Orange Box Phaser features a single knob labeled “Speed,” which controls the rate of modulation.
This straightforward interface makes it incredibly easy to operate, allowing for quick adjustments on the fly. Just dial in your desired speed, and let the warm phasing tones take over.
This pedal delivers lush phase effects reminiscent of classic recordings from iconic guitarists. It generates a smooth, liquid-like sound that adds movement and dimension to your guitar playing.
Whether you’re into psychedelic rock or want to add some vintage flair to your sound, this pedal nails those classic phaser tones.
Built with robust components, the Orange Box Phaser ensures reliable performance night after night. Its compact enclosure is built for durability, perfect for touring musicians or players who value sturdiness in their gear.
For guitarists looking for an authentic recreation of vintage ’70s phaser tones in a reliable package, the Whirlwind Rochester Series Orange Box Phaser Pedal FXORNP is an excellent choice.
Keeley Dark Side
The Keeley Dark Side is an innovative pedal that combines multiple effects into one unit. This powerful pedal offers a phaser, flanger, rotary speaker, fuzz, and delay effects that can be used individually or in conjunction for sonic exploration.
The Dark Side features a wide range of controls and parameters to shape your sound. The phaser section offers controls such as Rate, Depth, Resonance, and Feedback to create various phasing textures.
The flanger section provides similar controls to the phaser but with a slightly different modulation effect. Additionally, it includes a delay section with Time and Repeats knobs for creating spacey repeats.
One of the unique aspects of this pedal is the fuzz circuit that emulates classic ’70s fuzz tones. With controls like Level and Fuzz, you can sculpt your desired fuzz sound from mild overdrive to full-blown distortion.
Another standout feature of the Dark Side is its rotary speaker emulator. This effect mimics the sounds of an organ’s rotating speakers, adding a rich and dynamic element to your tone.
Built with high-quality components and sturdy construction, the Keeley Dark Side ensures reliability on stage or in the studio.
Its compact design makes it an excellent choice for guitarists looking to maximize their effects options without taking up too much space on their pedalboard.
If you’re seeking a versatile pedal that combines phaser, flanger, rotary speaker, fuzz, and delay effects in one unit, the Keeley Dark Side is a top contender. Its comprehensive range of options ensures that you have everything you need for sonic exploration at your fingertips.
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Red Witch Deluxe Moon Phaser Pedal
The Red Witch Deluxe Moon Phaser Pedal is a premium phaser pedal that offers a wide range of rich and dynamic phase effects.
With its unique design and versatile controls, this pedal is capable of producing mesmerizing modulation sounds that will enhance your guitar playing.
The Deluxe Moon Phaser features three different waveforms, including sine, triangle, and square. This variety allows you to experiment with different textures and shapes of phase modulation.
The Speed control knob enables you to adjust the rate at which the phase effect cycles, from slow and subtle sweeps to fast and pulsating waves.
One standout feature of the Deluxe Moon Phaser is its “Width” control knob. This allows you to adjust the depth or intensity of the phase effect, giving you the freedom to create anything from gentle shimmering tones to more pronounced swirling sounds.
With its true bypass circuitry, the Deluxe Moon Phaser ensures that your original signal remains unaltered when the pedal is disengaged.
This maintains the integrity of your tone while providing seamless transitions between your dry and modulated sounds.
Crafted with durability in mind, this pedal features a rugged metal housing that can withstand frequent use on stage or in studio settings. Its compact size also makes it suitable for any pedalboard setup.
Electro-Harmonix Bad Stone
The Electro-Harmonix Bad Stone is a classic phaser pedal known for its unique sound and vintage appeal.
With its iconic swooshing effects, this pedal will transport you back to the psychedelic sounds of the ’70s while adding an exciting touch to your modern playing.
One notable feature of the Bad Stone is its four-stage phase shifter design. It delivers warm tones that are reminiscent of classic analog phasers from decades past.
You can easily control the Rate knob to adjust how quickly or slowly the phase effect sweeps through your sound.
Built with simplicity in mind, this pedal features a single Color control knob. This allows you to dial in the desired frequency range of the phase effect, offering flexibility in shaping your tone.
The Bad Stone also includes a Feedback control knob, which adjusts the resonance and intensity of the phase effect. This gives you even more control over the character and depth of your modulation.
In addition to its sonic capabilities, the Electro-Harmonix Bad Stone is built with sturdy construction to withstand years of use. Its compact size makes it easy to fit on any pedalboard without taking up too much space.
Boss
BOSS is a well-established name in the world of guitar effects pedals, and their phaser pedals are no exception when it comes to quality and reliability.
BOSS offers a variety of phasers, including classics like the PH-3 Phase Shifter and innovative models like the MD-500 Modulation pedal.
The BOSS PH-3 Phase Shifter features an impressive range of phase effects that can be tailored to suit your needs.
With modes such as Classic, Rise, Fall, and Step, this pedal offers both vintage and modern sounds. The Rate control knob allows you to adjust the speed at which the phase effect cycles through your sound.
Another notable BOSS phaser is found within their MD-500 Modulation pedal. This multi-effects unit provides an extensive suite of modulation effects, including phaser algorithms.
With its advanced digital technology, you can tweak various parameters such as Depth, Feedback, and Resonance for precise control over your phasing sound.
BOSS pedals are known for their durability and reliability, making them a popular choice among musicians worldwide.
Source Audio Lunar Phaser Pedal
The Source Audio Lunar Phaser Pedal is a versatile modulation pedal that offers an array of programmable options for creating unique phaser effects.
Designed with advanced digital technology, this pedal gives you unparalleled control over your phasing sound.
Featuring 3 selectable analog phaser types, including a 2-stage, 4-stage, and 8-stage phaser, the Lunar Phaser allows you to tailor your modulation to your specific taste.
With the help of the Tone control knob, you can adjust the overall tonality of the phase effect to suit different musical styles.
The Source Audio Lunar Phaser also incorporates a wide range of programmable options. You can easily save and recall up to six customizable presets at any time, allowing for quick access to your favorite sounds during live performances or studio sessions.
Furthermore, the MIDI compatibility of this pedal opens up endless possibilities for integration with other MIDI controllers or software.
You can connect it to a MIDI controller and access additional parameters for in-depth tweaking and customization.
Built with a rugged enclosure and top-quality components, the Source Audio Lunar Phaser is designed to withstand heavy use on stage while delivering pristine sound quality.
Its compact size makes it suitable for both gigging musicians and those looking to expand their pedalboard setups with diverse modulation options.
Behringer VP1 Vintage Phaser
The Behringer VP1 Vintage Phaser is an affordable yet reliable option that faithfully recreates the classic vintage Phaser sound.
Inspired by legendary phaser pedals from decades past, this budget-friendly offering from Behringer delivers exceptional value without compromising on quality.
With its authentic analog circuitry design, the VP1 Vintage Phaser produces warm and lush modulation effects that capture the essence of vintage phasing.
Its Single Speed control knob allows you to adjust how fast or slow the phase effect sweeps through your audio signal.
The color scheme – creamy white and yellow – pays homage to iconic vintage pedals while adding a touch of nostalgia to your pedalboard aesthetics.
The sturdy plastic chassis ensures durability without sacrificing portability, making it suitable for use both on stage and in the studio.
The Behringer VP1 Vintage Phaser is a great option for beginners or those on a budget who are looking to explore the world of phaser effects.
Its straightforward design and affordable price make it an accessible choice for any guitarist looking to add some vintage charm to their sound.
FAQ About phaser pedal
Can I use a phaser pedal with other guitar effects pedals?
Yes, you can use a phaser pedal in combination with other guitar effects pedals. Experimenting with different pedal combinations can lead to unique and interesting sounds.
Are phaser pedals only suitable for certain genres of music?
Phaser pedals can be used in a wide range of musical genres. While they are often associated with classic rock and psychedelic styles, they can also add depth and texture to blues, funk, and even modern experimental genres.
Can I achieve a subtle phase effect with a phaser pedal?
Absolutely! Phaser pedals offer control over the intensity of the phase effect. By adjusting the depth and speed settings, you can achieve subtle and gentle phase shifts that enhance your tone without overwhelming it.
Do these phaser pedals require a power supply or batteries?
Most modern phaser pedals require an external power supply to operate. Some may also be powered by batteries as an alternative option. Always check the specifications of the specific pedal you are interested in purchasing.
Can I achieve a stereo-phase effect with these pedals?
Yes, several phaser pedals on the market offer stereo output options, allowing you to create an immersive stereo phase effect that enhances your soundstage. Make sure to check if your chosen pedal supports stereo operation if this is an important feature for you.
Conclusion
Choosing the best phaser pedal for your guitar playing needs can greatly enhance your sound and add a captivating element to your music.
The Dunlop MXR Phase 90 M101 offers a classic and versatile option, while the Empress Effects Phaser Pedal provides unrivaled sound quality and versatility.
For those on a budget, the Electro-Harmonix Nano Small Stone delivers excellent value for money.
BOSS PH-3 Phase Shifter offers a wide range of phase effects, and TC Electronic Helix Phaser combines vintage sound with modern flexibility.
Consider your desired tone, features, and budget when selecting the perfect phaser pedal to take your guitar playing to new heights.
