MXR

Creativity is one of the most basic foundations of music; nobody could argue against that! What may not be so obvious at first, though, is that it applies to more than just composing and song-writing. Look no further than MXR for instance - their lineup of effects shows what impressive results can be produced by a team of creative electronic engineers and designers. Overdrive, chorus, compressor and phaser pedals are only a few examples of the effects considered standard equipment for guitarists today, and they're all well-represented in the MXR selection. Bassists have plenty to choose from as well, with solid options like the M288 Bass Octave Deluxe Effects Pedal or the M-80 Bass Direct Box with Distortion. No matter your instrument or style, it's a safe bet that MXR has some effects here that will be right at home on your pedalboard. If you're new to MXR effects, start your search with the best-selling and best-rated pedals. They're popular for a reason, after all. Words can only tell you so much about a pedal, and the fact that tons of musicians are using and loving these stompboxes says more about them than we could ever put in writing. Of course, you'll be hard-pressed to find an effects unit here that isn't sporting an outstanding rating... which says a lot about MXR as a whole. Maybe you'd like an A-list weigh-in on MXR pedals to really convince you, though? If that's the case, just take a look at the EVH models. The Phase 90 is one of MXR's best pedals, and they've made a limited-edition EVH version that's a must-have for any guitarist interested in replicating the sound of early Van Halen albums. Don't forget to check out the EVH-117 Eddie Van Halen Flanger, too: it's based on the original MXR flangers behind classics like "And the Cradle Will Rock" and "Unchained." There's a lot that you can do these days with just a guitar or bass and an amp, but if you really want to set yourself apart, a good effects loop is a must. Fortunately, it's not hard to put one of those together - all you need is to start with the high-end, universally-trusted pedals in the MXR lineup and you'll be well on your way to a pedalboard that even the pros would envy.