The Best Chorus Pedals: The Ultimate Guide for Guitarists in 2023

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Chorus pedals are an essential tool for guitarists looking to enhance and enrich their sound. These versatile stompboxes allow musicians to create spacious and lush tonal landscapes, elevating even the simplest chord progression or melody into a dynamic and ethereal sonic experience.

With such a diverse range of effects, it’s no wonder that these pedals have become a staple on pedalboards across the globe, used by renowned musicians in the industry. In this article, we will dive into the mesmerizing world of chorus pedals, presenting you with some of the best options on the market (From Boss pedals to Walrus Audio pedals) to help you unlock the full potential of your guitar tone.

Discover the Best Chorus Pedals on the Market

To assist you in your quest, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best chorus pedals available today. Our in-depth analysis considers factors such as tonal quality, chorus effects, ease of use, durability, and affordability. Our curated selection is designed to cater to players of all levels, from beginners experimenting with their first chorus pedal to seasoned professionals looking for an upgrade.

Having trouble getting started? Try our top-rated product, the Boss CE-2W Chorus. It offers professionalism and superior craftsmanship at a great price. Our premium option is the Chase Bliss Audio Warped Vinyl, gifting you with superior vinyl tone. Or, if you’re looking for a budget choice that still offers amazing performance, try the TC Electronic June 60 V2.

And there’s so much more where that came from. Browse our chorus pedal deals below to find the best model for you.

1. Boss CE-2W Chorus
2. Walrus Audio Julia V2 
3. Boss DC-2W Dimension C
4. TC Electronic SCF Gold
5. Chase Bliss Audio Warped Vinyl 
6. Electro-Harmonix Neo Clone
7. TC Electronic Corona Chorus
8. EarthQuaker Devices Sea Machine V3
9. MXR M234 Analog Chorus
10. TC Electronic June 60 V2

1. Boss CE-2W Chorus

The original CE-1 Chorus Ensemble took musicians’ sound to new heights, providing lush chorus and vibrato effects, no matter your amplifier setup. The new, improved CE-2W Chorus does this and more, fully creating that classic chorus sound when you opt for standard mode.

Features

• All-analog circuitry
• Standard mode for that chorus effect
• CE-1 mode
• Rate and depth knobs
• Excellent chorus and vibrato

Review

But it’s not all about the past – let’s talk about the improvements this pedal brings to the table. The CE-2W Waza Craft includes a new sound field with stereo output. There’s also the addition of variable chorus depth for even more of a unique soundscape – play about with the rate and depth controls to tweak and adjust your tone to perfection.

This model also features premium all-analog circuitry and a bucket brigade delay line. And just like the original CE-1, this model is made in Japan.

Verdict

Boss is known for their craftsmanship, professionalism, and great sound, and the Boss CE-2W Waza Craft Chorus Pedal is no exception. An upgrade of the original CE-1 Chorus, this pedal offers a range of new features while remaining faithful to that original chorus sound musicians loved so much.

This Pedal is Perfect For:

If you’re looking for professional jazz tones to color your music, we think you’d absolutely love the Boss CE-2W Chorus.

2. Walrus Audio Julia V2

This Walrus Audio pedal is an updated model with a whole host of new features, including soft switch bypassing, top-mounted jacks, and a brand new style, with art by Adam Forster.

Features

• Fully analog
• Unique blend knob
• Lag control to set delay time
• Dry, chorus, and vibrato effects
• Wave switch
• Lavender enclosure
• Top-mounted jacks
• Soft switch bypassing

Review

You can rest assured that this pedal will draw your eye, even when hooked up to your pedalboard. It’s the perfect choice for musicians who like to stand out from the crowd in sound and style.

Experience a lush chorus or seasick vibrato effects. The Walrus Audio V2 also comes with a range of controls to help take your sound to the next level. Try the lag control to set the center delay time and get smooth and tight modulation even at the lowest settings. Or use the D-C-V knob to blend between dry signal, chorus, and vibrato and tweak your dry-to-wet signal ratio. Select sine and triangle waveforms with the wave switch.

Verdict

With a range of amazing features and effects (chorus, vibrato, and try), all housed in a stylish model, the Walrus Audio Julia V2 is an amazing choice when it comes to sculpting your sound.

This Pedal is Perfect For:

Musicians who appreciate style, as well as sound, will adore this analog pedal.

3. Boss DC-2W Dimension C

The Boss DC-2W Dimension C is an upgraded Boss model featuring everything that made the original DC-2 Dimension C pedal special but with modern refinements for an even wider soundscaping potential.

Features

• Electronic switching
• Spatial processing
• Modern refinements
• Four-button preset interface
• Standard mode
• Four main sounds in each mode
• Premium buffer
• Enhanced bypass circuitry
• Versatile I/O

Review

New features include electronic switching that allows you to experiment with a whole host of sonic variations you simply won’t find on old, vintage models.

The Dimension C is famous for its 3D spatial processing, which offers a more natural and open sound to enrich your mix without that processed tone that often comes with effects pedals.

Get creative and expand your sound possibilities with the four switches. Access a whole range of new and additional sounds. The interface is simple, meaning you don’t have to spend ages setting it up – you can just get on with your music right out of the box, creating a performance that audiences will go crazy for.

It also features a versatile I/O for easy blending with any stereo or mono rig.

Verdict

The Boss DC-2W Dimension C comes with four switches, new refinements for an even better sound, more possibilities, and so much more. And not only that – you also get a five-year warranty. That’s how confident Boss is when it comes to their products.

This Pedal is Perfect For:

This is one of the best chorus pedals for musicians needing a more natural sound. This model’s D spatial processing ensures you won’t get that processed feeling that sometimes comes with other pedals.

4. TC Electronic SCF Gold

This reissued SCF Gold pedal comes with three modulation modes, including chorus, flanger, and pitch modulation, that will help you sculpt your soundscape, no matter your genre.

Features

• 3 modulation modes
• True bucket brigade device
• Input gain
• Overload indicator
• Standard 9 V DC Power Socket

Review

This model also features an improved analog preamp that offers a great deal of headroom, low-frequency response, and a dynamic range that will take your tone to new heights.

The true bucket brigade ensures you keep that amazing retro tone with your sound, and the input gain and overload indicators mean you can control the input easily, maintaining a perfect guitar signal-to-noise ratio.

This version of this stereo chorus pedal comes with improved power, swapping the original hardwired power cable with a standard 9 V DC power socket to integrate effortlessly on all modern pedalboards.

Verdict

Get the gold standard with the TC Electronic SCF Gold.

This Pedal is Perfect For:

This is one of the best chorus pedals for professionals who need a model they can rely on night after night. All improvements made to the TC Electronic SCF Gold have heightened its sound and made everything easier – so all you have to focus on is creating music.

5. Chase Bliss Audio Warped Vinyl

Like most chorus pedals on our list, the Warped Vinyl has gone through a range of improvements to make sure it’s the best it can be, including a lag knob. This little control can transform the shape of your sound, pushing apart wet and drive signals manually. Increase the delay between signals to create an exaggerated chorus effect for your sound.

Features

• All-analog “true pitch” design
• Modushape section
• Lag knob
• Hold mode
• Advanced customization and connectivity options
• MIDI
• Presets

Review

Other features include a hold mode to take your performances to the next level and a true pitch modulation design-based bucket-brigade chips to achieve warmth and grit.

Expand your possibilities with advanced connectivity options, including CV and expression controls, presets, internal modulation, and MIDI connection.

Verdict

Premium models need premium features, and that’s exactly what the Chase Bliss Audio Warped Vinyl delivers. Create lush sonic soundscapes, no matter your genre or style.

This Pedal is Perfect For:

If you’re a musician who loves that warped vinyl record, this is the best chorus pedal for you. Recording studio professionals will love the power, clarity, and tone this model provides.

6. Electro-Harmonix Neo Clone

The Electro-Harmonix Neo is a re-creation of the legendary Small Clone chorus pedal, featuring the same amazing chorus sound and tonal possibilities packed into a pedalboard-friendly casing.

Features

• True analog design
• Bucket brigade chip
• Sultry sonic texture
• Depth control
• Amazing chorus sound
• Pedalboard friendly
• True Bypass
• Included 9V battery

Review

It exhibits a true analog design adjusted to deliver serious accuracy and amazing new sonic qualities that will transform your sonic landscape. Experiment with the depth knob to find the right sonic texture for your sound. This chorus pedal also features true bypass to ensure your signal stays intact, even when your pedal is off.

Verdict

The Electro-Harmonix Neo Clone offers amazing sonic possibilities at a fantastic competition-beating price. So if you’re looking for something affordable to help transform your music, this analog modulation pedal is highly recommended.

This Pedal is Perfect For:

This is one of the best pedals for beginners looking for something simple to get started. The Electro-Harmonix Neo Clone isn’t packed with features that new starters might find confusing – instead, it has everything you need to jump straight into using the chorus effect.

7. TC Electronic Corona Chorus

Experience the chorus, pitch-mod, and flanger tones of the original SCF pedal with this stylish upgrade. It has everything you need to create the sonic landscape of your dreams, from stereo inputs and outputs for a wide warble to optimized headroom.

Features

• Chorus, pitch-mod, and flanger tones
• SCF setting
• Tri-Chorus
• Stereo in and outputs
• True Bypass or Buffered Bypass switch
• Kill-Dry on/off
• Access to signature effects
• TonePrint Editor

Review

The Corona also comes with a true bypass or buffered bypass switch and a Kill-Dry on/off option, ensuring your tone and signal remain strong even when your pedal is switched off.

But the best thing about this chorus pedal is the TonePrint app. Get access to a range of amazing tones that have been customized by professional artists. All you have to do is beam them straight to your pedal via the app – without needing to connect a cable. It really is that simple.

The TonePrint app offers so much more than that, though. Use the TonePrint Editor to get full and complete control over your effects, knobs, and settings. Making music and creating lush tonal landscapes has never been easier than with this pedal.

Verdict

The TC Electronic Corona Chorus is a standout option for many reasons, but we have to say that we love the TonePrint app. The power to expand your tonal possibilities is right at your fingertips.

This Pedal is Perfect For:

Musicians who want complete control over their music and tone will absolutely love the TC Electronic Corona. It’s one of the best chorus pedals for musicians who spend a lot of their time in the studio.

8. EarthQuaker Devices Sea Machine V3

Increase your control with animate, add a slight slap-back to your sound with dimension, or set the speed of the LFO with the rate knob.

Features

• High-quality chorus
• Animate control
• Dimension control
• Intensity control
• Depth control
• Rate control
• Flexi-Switch® Technology
• 9-volt DC power supply

Review

If you appreciate choice, the EarthQuaker Devices Sea Machine V3 has it all, giving you a sea of modulation possibilities to help you find your sound – whether you’re looking for shimmery chorus sounds, subtle warble, or something else entirely. It’s never been easier to dial in your tone with the standard controls this pedal offers.

Other features include Flexi-Switch technology, letting you use momentary and latching style switching simultaneously without compromising the strength of your signal.

Verdict

The EarthQuaker Devices Sea Machine V3 is all about sound. If you like an endless array of choices when dialing in tone, this is a great pedal with everything you need and more.

This Pedal is Perfect For:

This is one of the best chorus pedals for musicians who like to experiment with their sound. From animate to rate, there are a whole host of effects you can use to give your performance depth and nuance. We’d also recommend this chorus pedal for bass players who are in love with that 80s post-punk sound.

9. MXR M234 Analog Chorus

Sometimes the simple chorus pedals are the ones to beat. Boasting bucket brigade circuitry, the MXR M234 Analog Chorus Pedal features level, rate, and depth controls that deliver a range of effects from shimmer to swirl, helping you find the right tone for your music.

Features

• Bucket brigade circuitry
• Rate, level, and depth controls
• High- and low-frequency cut knobs
• Aluminum chassis
• Input, mono output, and thru jacks

Review

The high and low-frequency cut knobs will let you dial in your tones with ease, giving you even more control over your sound. They’re also super helpful when it comes to matching affected tone with un-affected sound, helping you create something authentic and unprocessed.

Need to take your new pedal on tour? You don’t have to worry about carting this little beauty from gig to gig. The aluminum chassis is tough enough to withstand the rigors of gigging life. It’s also lightweight and compact, so you’ll never feel weighed down by your new chorus pedal, and it’ll fit neatly on your pedalboard.

Verdict

With rate, level, and depth controls, high and low-frequency cut knobs, bucket brigade circuitry, and an aluminum chassis, this simple pedal has everything you need to sculpt your sound.

This Pedal is Perfect For:

The aluminum chassis makes this one of the best chorus pedals for guitar players on the road. So if you’re looking for something affordable, simple, and strong, the MXR M234 Analog Chorus Pedal comes highly recommended.

10. TC Electronic June 60 V2

The June 60 V2 features a simple 2-Button interface, which makes switching between presets easy and straightforward. The presets (I and II) feature two speed options each, including speeds found on the original Juno model.

Features

• 2-Button Interface
• BBD Circuitry (Bucket Brigade Device)
• Two sets of dip switches
• Buffered outputs

Review

Each mode will let you push the bounds of your creativity, offering you the versatility you need. TC Electronic electronic have tweaked and updated preset 3 (when you press I and II together) to recreate the secondary ‘MODE 3’ LFO found on the original Juno model.

Get a wider stereo field with the upgraded Bucket Brigade circuit design and improved true-stereo output.

This model also features dip switches, which you can find on the circuit board – experiment with four different combinations of the LFO rate.

The June 60 V2 isn’t just a great option for guitarists. Synth players will also get much out of this pedal. It features buffered outputs so you can easily connect your pedal up with synths and keys.

Oh, and did we mention that the June 60 V2 is stylish, too? It plays tribute to the original Juno with added extras such as the wood paneling to give it a little more flare. It’ll look great on any pedalboard.

Verdict

With a range of chorus effects, features, and a fantastic style, the June 60 V2 is one of the best chorus pedals on the market.

This Pedal is Perfect For:

This is one of the best chorus pedals if you play the keyboard. Connect easily to your synths and keys to find the sound you need.

Best Chorus Pedals Buyer’s Guide: Things to Consider When Buying a Chorus Pedal

When it comes to adding depth and dimension to your guitar tone, a chorus pedal is a guitarist’s best friend. Belonging to the modulation family, chorus pedals work by creating a layered sound through two slightly delayed signals. However, the chorus pedal market is saturated, so how do you know where to start?

Never bought a chorus pedal before? Don’t sweat! This Chorus Pedals Buyer’s Guide will delve into the key factors you need to consider before purchasing.

How to Choose the Best Chorus Pedal For You

When choosing a chorus pedal, there are a few important factors to take into account before making your purchase.

First, think about your budget. In terms of price, chorus pedals can range from under $50 to over $300, depending on the brand, features, and quality. If you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of good-quality chorus pedals available for under $100. However, if you can afford to pay a bit more, it may be worth investing in a more expensive pedal with advanced features that offer more versatility.

Another important factor to consider is your playing level. Beginners or intermediate players may not need all the bells and whistles of a high-end option, and a traditional chorus pedal might be more up their street. A basic, straightforward chorus effect will likely be sufficient enough. On the other hand, if you’re an experienced player or recording artist, you may need a chorus pedal with more advanced features, such as stereo outputs, additional presets, and customizable parameters.

The features you need can also impact your decision. Some pedals have a wide range of sound-shaping controls, such as depth, speed, and tone. Other chorus pedals may boast additional effects, such as vibrato or a built-in phaser. It’s important to consider which features are necessary for your playing style and musical genre.

Customizing the modulation effect is crucial for achieving a specific tone or sound. For instance, some pedals have different chorus modes like vibrato, flange, or tremolo to experiment with. The size and design of the pedal are subjective, but it may be worth considering if it fits your playing style and ergonomic preferences. 

Overall, choosing the best pedal for you will depend on your budget, playing level, and desired features. By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and find a pedal to enhance your sound and inspire your creativity.

Budget Vs. High-End Chorus Pedals

When it comes to chorus pedals, there are several options available, ranging from budget-friendly to high-end models. 

The main consideration for most guitar players is the pedal’s sound quality and tonal variety. Affordable pedals are often mass-produced to keep the cost low, but this can come at the expense of reliability and build quality, depending on the manufacturer. These pedals can still produce a decent sound, but they may lack the warmth and character of higher-priced pedals.

Expensive pedals are designed to provide the best sound quality possible, with a greater range of tonal variety to explore. They are often built with higher-quality components and offer more features, such as modulation options and presets. They may even have additional outputs to connect things like an expression pedal. However, this extra processing power and sound quality often come with a higher price tag.

Determine what your specific needs are. If you’re looking for an affordable option to provide a decent sound, a budget-friendly pedal may be your best bet. However, if you’re seeking a specific, personalized sound with a variety of options, a high-end chorus pedal may be worth the investment. Ultimately, the quality of your guitar’s tone can be vastly improved with the addition of a well-designed and reliable chorus pedal, no matter the price point.

Digital Vs. Analog Chorus

The type of circuitry used in a pedal can greatly impact your sound. Analog and digital chorus pedals have unique characteristics that appeal to different guitarists.

Digital guitar pedals use advanced digital signal processing technology to create a range of chorus effects that may not be possible with analog equipment. They offer precise control over parameters such as rate, depth, and delay, allowing you to create more complex sounds.

However, some guitarists prefer the warm, organic sound of analog chorus pedals. These pedals use a simple circuit design that can create subtle, natural-sounding chorus effects that blend well with the guitar’s original tone. Additionally, analog options typically offer a more pronounced and distinct depth effect, producing a rich and full tone that is hard to replicate with digital equipment. Ultimately, the choice between analog and digital chorus pedals should be based on your personal preferences and the unique sound you’re trying to achieve.

FAQs

Are chorus pedals worth it?

Chorus pedals are worth it for any guitarist looking to add depth, texture, and richness to their sound. With a chorus pedal, you can easily create a wide range of tones, from subtle shimmer to lush, swirling modulation. Pedals are also highly versatile, allowing you to use them for various styles and genres, including rock, blues, jazz, and more. So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, a quality chorus pedal is a must-have for your guitar rig.

Where does the chorus pedal go in my signal chain?

The optimal place for a chorus pedal in your signal chain is before your delay and reverb stompboxes. This is because modulation-style pedals, such as chorus, can alter and obscure the ambiance created by the delay/reverb trail if placed after them. By positioning the chorus pedal earlier in the chain, you can achieve a fuller and more pronounced chorus effect while preserving clarity and fullness.

Final Thoughts

With the vast array of options available, choosing the best chorus pedal can be overwhelming. But it might get a bit easier when you start considering factors such as the type of effect, functionality, build quality, and budget to make an informed decision.

Ultimately, a good chorus pedal can add depth, warmth, and richness to your guitar sound, taking your music to new heights. Take your time, do your research, and select the best chorus pedal that meets your needs and preferences.