The Best Chorus Pedal in 2023: Unveiling the Top Picks

Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting, capturing that perfect sound is the holy grail of every musical endeavour.

The chorus pedal, a device that generates the illusion of multiple guitars playing together, plays a pivotal role in shaping a unique and captivating sound. With a vast array of options in the market, finding the best chorus pedal can feel akin to searching for a pearl in an ocean. Well, fret no more.

This comprehensive guide unveils the top picks for the “Best Chorus Pedal in 2023,” providing detailed insights, benefits, and pros and cons for each choice. So instead of striking a sour note, read on and rock on with the chorus pedal that strikes just the right chord for you.

Boss CE-2W Waza Craft

Overview

The Boss CE-2W Waza Craft is a reimagined version of the iconic CE-2 chorus pedal. Known for its simplicity and magical tone, the original CE-2 has been given a new lease of life with the CE-2W, which includes additional voices designed to enhance its utility on stage and in the studio. The CE-2W also includes a slider switch that provides a selection of different modes, including the voices of the original CE-2, its predecessor, the CE-1, and a unique vibrato circuit. This pedal is part of the Waza Craft series, recognized for its high-quality and superior tone. The CE-2W maintains the standard with an analogue circuit that faithfully reproduces the tones of the original chorus pedals.

Key Benefits

• Wide range of classic chorus tones.
• Versatility for both stage and studio use.
• Includes a transformative vibrato effect.
• Suitable for various genres and players of all skill levels.
• Great for clean tones, layering, subtle styles, tube amps, and analogue fans.

Pricing

While the CE-2W is priced higher than other Boss chorus pedals, it offers excellent value for its price. The analogue circuits and vintage-style chorus tones make it a worthy investment despite the higher initial cost.

Pros & Cons

From our perspective, there are several pros and cons associated with the CE-2W. On the positive side, the pedal is sturdy and features stereo outputs. The standard mode offers great subtlety, with chorus textures that blend well in a mix but provide an organic and analogue sense of extra motion when singled out. For those who prefer more intense chorus sounds, the CE-1 mode provides deeper and queasier tones. The vibrato effect adds an unexpected twist, enabling alternative chorus voices with a hint of pitch shifting or a metallically tinged rotary speaker sound.

On the downside, the price is higher than that of other Boss chorus pedals due to the analogue circuitry. However, for those who value versatility, a range of classic chorus tones, and vintage-style pedals, the Boss CE-2W Waza Craft is an excellent choice.

TC Electronic June 60 V2

Overview

The TC Electronic June-60 V2 is an enhanced guitar pedal, redesigned with advanced stereo output and added internal switching options. This versatile device can be utilized with both guitars and synths, and allows variable input level adjustment via an internal switch. The pedal includes two yellow buttons for the selection between a slow, rich chorus or a faster wobble and a slider switch for mono or TRS stereo output. The June-60 V2 also features an internal dipswitch bank for adjusting the LFO speed, emulating the legendary chorus effect of the Roland Juno synths from the 80s. With a redesigned stereo circuit for a wider field and more noticeable separation, this pedal further enhances its sound in stereo mode and now directly supports synths, eliminating the need for extra cabling.

Key Benefits

• Accurate recreation of the iconic Roland Juno synths’ chorus effect with added stereo output and adjustable LFO speed.
• Versatility for use with both guitars and synths.
• Ease of use with intuitive controls and the ability to switch between different chorus modes.
• Redesigned stereo circuit for a wider field and more noticeable separation in sound.
• Direct support for synths, eliminating the need for extra cabling.

Pricing

The June-60 V2 is recommended for its superior chorus sounds and cost-effective pricing. Its value is evident considering the high quality of sound it delivers and the versatility it offers, making it a worthwhile investment for musicians seeking to enhance their sound.

Pros & Cons

From a personal perspective, the June-60 V2 has a lot going for it. The fact that it’s true-bypass, meaning it won’t affect your signal when not in use, is a definite plus. Its versatility and ease of use are further advantages, offering authentic vintage chorus sounds, intuitive controls, and the ability to switch between different chorus modes. Also, it can double as a buffered mono to stereo converter. But no product is perfect, and the June-60 V2 is no exception.

One drawback is the slightly tricky access to the battery compartment, which requires the removal of the wood end panels. However, considering the range of features and benefits it offers, this seems to be a minor inconvenience against the backdrop of its overall performance and value.

Ibanez Chorus Mini

Overview

The Ibanez analogue Chorus Mini is a compact pedal that delivers top-notch analogue sounds. As a part of Ibanez’s Mini series, this pedal boasts of a small, stylish, and easy-to-operate design. Crafted in Japan, the pedal is encased in a tough-as-nails enclosure, promising durability and quality. Its true bypass feature and 100% analogue circuitry amplify the natural and organic quality in the sound it produces.

Key Benefits

• Delivers deep dimensionality and can produce a sound similar to a well-recorded Leslie.
• Offers a contoured and multi-hued analogue chorus sound that is versatile and appealing to a wide range of guitarists.
• Compact design makes it a popular choice among guitarists who want a compact and reliable chorus effect for their pedalboard.
• A great option for both beginners and experienced guitarists who are looking for a reliable and affordable chorus pedal.

Pricing

The Ibanez Chorus Mini is a high-quality chorus pedal that offers great value for its price. It’s an affordable option for those who want a classic chorus sound in a compact package. The pedal has been praised for its sound quality, build/design, and value, making it a cost-effective choice for guitarists.

Pros & Cons

Speaking from personal experience, the Chorus Mini has its strengths and weaknesses. On the plus side, it has three knobs for depth, level, and speed, allowing for basic control over the chorus effect. The pedal is highly regarded for its deep vintage chorus tones. I also appreciate its small footprint – despite lacking stereo functionality, this robustly built pedal makes up for it with its compact design. Its durability and the quality of the analogue sounds it creates make it a worthy addition to any guitarist’s pedalboard. However, the absence of stereo functionality may be a drawback for some.

Electro-Harmonix Neo Clone

Overview

The Electro-Harmonix Neo Clone is an analogue chorus pedal, designed with the goal of recreating the iconic sound of the Small Clone chorus pedal. This pedal boasts a single rate knob and a micro switch which allows users to switch between two depth intensities: heavy and light. The Neo Clone is built using the same fundamental circuitry as the Small Clone, but offers improved accuracy and superior sonic qualities. You can power this pedal with a 9V battery or a 9V DC power supply – the choice is yours.

Key Benefits

• Authentic recreation of the classic Small Clone chorus pedal sound
• Single rate knob and micro switch for simple yet versatile control
• Two depth intensities: heavy and light, for varied tones
• Built using the same fundamental circuitry as the Small Clone for an authentic sound but with improved accuracy and superior sonic properties
• Can be powered by a 9V battery or a 9V DC power supply for convenience
• Durable build with high-quality components

Pricing

The Electro-Harmonix Neo Clone is known to be a budget-friendly option. This makes it accessible for guitarists who want to add a classic and versatile chorus effect to their pedalboard without breaking the bank.

Pros & Cons

As a user of the Electro-Harmonix Neo Clone, I can attest to its adaptability. The Neo Clone is adept at producing a wide range of chorus tones, from subtle to more extreme, depending on your specific settings. This makes it an excellent addition for both clean tones and overdriven or distorted tones, providing a thicker, more textured sound when desired.

The pedal’s high-quality components and durable construction make it hardy enough to withstand long-term use – a feature we know many musicians will appreciate. On the other hand, the absence of specified pricing online might be a minor annoyance for some. But overall, this chorus pedal offers great value, considering the classic and versatile chorus effects it brings to your pedalboard.

Boss DC-2W Dimension C

Overview

The Boss DC-2W Dimension C is a remarkable modulation pedal that brings back the distinctive spatial sounds of its 80s predecessors but with a modern twist. This device provides two voicing options. One mimics the original Boss DC-2 Dimension C pedal, while the other emulates the Roland SDD-320 Dimension D studio rack effect. The pedal is user-friendly, featuring a four-button interface, allowing for ten different settings in each voicing. Whether you’re using stereo or mono setup, this pedal seamlessly fits in. The DC-2W is built using high-quality Waza Craft analogue circuitry, adding modern refinements for improved performance and versatility. To top it all, it’s made in Japan and comes with a BOSS five-year warranty.

Key Benefits

• Reproduces the unique sounds of vintage Boss DC-2 Dimension C pedal and Roland SDD-320 Dimension D studio rack effect
• User-friendly interface with four buttons that allow for 20 different settings
• Works well with both stereo and mono setups
• Built using high-quality Waza Craft analogue circuitry for enhanced performance and versatility
• Comes with a BOSS five-year warranty

Pricing

If you’re in the market for a modulation pedal that captures the charm of the classic Dimension units without breaking the bank, the DC-2W is the perfect choice. It provides an affordable alternative to the original DC-2 pedal, which is highly sought after and costly due to its vintage status.

Pros & Cons

From a guitarist’s perspective, the DC-2W Dimension C has many pros. Its Dimension effect, similar to but subtler than the chorus, lends depth and width to the sound, adding a unique modulation to your repertoire, especially if you’re running a stereo rig. The pedal works great with clean sounds and handles drive and distortion well, showcasing its versatility. Its dual inputs and outputs allow for mono or stereo operation, and the modulation is achieved through dual sections that are out-of-phase with each other, creating a rich and subtle sound.

The pedal features four preset effects, each with its own depth and rate parameters, and it remains quiet, preserving the natural tonality of your instrument. One of the standout features is its ease of use. The four-button interface and LED indicators make operating the pedal a breeze. Plus, you enjoy the assurance of a BOSS five-year warranty.

However, every product has its downsides, and for the DC-2W, it’s the price. While it’s more affordable than the original DC-2, it might still be considered pricey by some. But considering the quality and versatility it offers, we believe it’s worth every penny.

MXR M234 Analogue Chorus

Overview

The MXR M234 analogue Chorus is a timeless chorus pedal that recreates the audible magic of analogue chorus using its bucket brigade circuitry. It’s known for its array of effects ranging from the subtle to the extreme, effortlessly mimicking the tones of legendary artists like Robbie Blunt and Andy Summers, and even the Leslie warble of “Black Hole Sun”. Equipped with a five-control layout, including Low and High EQ controls, Level, Rate, and Depth, this pedal facilitates unmatched flexibility in crafting various chorus effects.

Key Benefits

• A compact and affordable unit that accurately reproduces the ’80s chorus sound.
• Offers a broad spectrum of modulation, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned professionals alike.
• Enhances the texture and thickness of the guitar signal, producing warm and natural tones.
• High and Low EQ controls enable perfect adjustment of presence and depth for any guitar.
• Works seamlessly with other pedals and can replicate a flanger effect.

Pricing

The MXR M234 analogue Chorus is a remarkable blend of quality and value. This pedal is a popular choice among guitarists who are seeking a reliable, versatile, and affordable chorus pedal that doesn’t compromise on sound quality.

Pros & Cons

From our experience with the MXR M234 analogue Chorus, we’ve found that the pros definitely outweigh the cons. The Rate and Depth controls offer a fantastic range to go from subtle to extreme space effects, while the Level control allows for adding just a touch of chorus or cranking it up for a Leslie-like effect. This versatile pedal can be used to achieve the classic ’80s chorus sound or add texture to contemporary settings or ’60s-style Leslie wash. It’s more than just a pretty, shimmering sound. It can rock and go beyond typical applications.

The pedal features five knobs – Low and High EQ controls, Level, Rate, and Depth. These allow for precise control over the chorus effect, meaning you can really tailor the sound to your liking. The Low and High EQ controls adjust the amount of bottom-end and treble frequencies that are cut out of the mix, offering you even more customization options.

However, it’s worth noting that the pedal has a bright blue LED that might be a bit too dazzling for some. But overall, we believe that the MXR M234 analogue Chorus is a valuable addition to any pedalboard.

Way Huge Smalls Blue Hippo Analogue Chorus

Overview

The Way Huge Blue Hippo analogue Chorus MkIII is an innovative pedal from Dunlop’s Way Huge “smalls” series, created by the inventive Jeorge Tripps. This device follows in the footsteps of the original Blue Hippo, a pedal renowned for its unique bucket brigade design, and based loosely on the Boss CE-2 chorus pedal. Tripps took the essence of the original, made some modifications, and presented us with the Blue Hippo, which quickly became a favorite among analogue pedal enthusiasts and chorus lovers.

The MkIII model is a 2-for-1 pedal, featuring channels for both chorus and vibrato. It utilizes a Speed knob to control the rate of modulation and a Depth knob to gauge the level of the effect. Plus, it boasts a mini switch that allows easy toggle between chorus and vibrato channels. The LED indicator communicates the current rate of the effect. Importantly, it’s a true bypass pedal, with a handy battery cavity, and it can be powered via a 9-volt adapter or power supply. The pedal has 1/4″ input and output jacks, and it operates with an input and output impedance of 470 kΩ and 470 Ω respectively.

Key Benefits

• Wide range of tones: The Blue Hippo provides everything from 12-string chorusing to Leslie-style univibe sounds.
• Warm analogue sound: Thanks to its bucket brigade circuitry, it offers a natural and warm analogue sound.
• Versatility: The Speed and Depth knobs allow you to create both subtle and intense chorus effects with ease.
• Compatibility: The pedal integrates well with other pedals without affecting the overall mix or dynamics.
• Convenience: The Blue Hippo is a versatile and convenient pedal, delivering boutique sounds at an affordable price.

Pricing

The Way Huge Blue Hippo analogue Chorus MkIII is known for providing boutique sounds at an affordable cost, making it a great value proposition. Make sure to check the current market price or contact your local musical instrument retailer for the most accurate information.

Pros & Cons

From our hands-on experience with the Blue Hippo, we can assert that its strength lies in the variety of tones it can create. Whether you’re after a 12-string chorus or a Leslie-style univibe sound, this pedal has you covered. Its analogueue sound, courtesy of the bucket brigade circuitry, is both natural and warm, which is a major plus. The ability to dial in either subtle or intense effects via the Speed and Depth knobs is a fantastic feature, and its compatibility with other pedals without interfering with the overall mix is a huge advantage.

On the downside, the lack of specific pricing information can make comparing this pedal to others on the market a tad challenging. However, this minor drawback doesn’t overshadow the overall high-quality and versatility that the Way Huge Smalls Blue Hippo analogue Chorus MkIII offers.

Walrus Audio Julia Analogue Chorus/Vibrato

Overview

The Walrus Audio Julia is a versatile chorus/vibrato pedal which excels in delivering traditional chorus sounds as well as fresh variations. It’s housed in a standard 125B-sized enclosure and powered with a standard 9V. The Walrus Audio Julia V2, the upgraded version of the original Julia pedal, features top-mounted jacks and updated artwork. Being fully analogueue, it presents a spectrum of tonal landscapes through its innovative features. The Julia pedal comes with a unique lag knob that allows control over the center delay time of the modulated signal, and a D-C-V (Dry-Chorus-Vibrato) blend knob that provides a seamless blend between dry, chorus, and vibrato sounds.

Key Benefits

• Offers traditional chorus sounds and new variations.
• Features a lag knob, allowing control over the modulated signal’s center delay time.
• D-C-V blend knob for a continuous blend between dry, chorus, and vibrato sounds.
• Available in an upgraded version, the Julia V2, with top-mounted jacks and new artwork.
• High-quality analogue sounds with adjustable dry blend options.
• Provides both triangle-wave and sine-wave modulation options.
• Wet/dry mix control for a seamless blend between dry and wet signals.

Pricing

The Julia pedal is known for being fairly priced. This, along with its versatility and high-quality build, makes the Julia pedal a value-for-money option for those seeking a classic analogue chorus effect or new variations in their sound.

Pros & Cons

As a player, I find the Julia pedal to be a noteworthy addition to my gear. Its subtle and tasteful in-between settings are a charm for players like us who prefer stepping out of the conventional chorusing. The build quality is top-notch, providing the assurance of durability and reliable performance. The Julia V2, with its classic analogue sound and adjustable dry blend options, elevates our music to a whole new level.

However, it’s not without its minor drawbacks. The pedal lacks stereo capabilities, which might affect those who prefer a more expansive sound stage. Yet, despite this, I believe that the pros of the Walrus Audio Julia analogue Chorus/Vibrato pedal far outweigh this single con, making it a worthwhile investment in your musical journey.

What Is A Chorus Pedal And How Does It Work?

Chorus pedals are a type of effect pedal used by guitarists to create a chorus effect, adding depth, richness, and complexity to the sound of a guitar. This is achieved by duplicating the guitar signal, slightly modifying the pitch of the duplicate signal, and then recombining it with the original signal, thus creating an illusion of multiple guitars being played simultaneously.

The controls typically found on a chorus pedal include speed, depth, and mix. The speed control adjusts the rate at which the pitch changes, creating a sense of movement and fluctuation. The depth control determines the intensity of the chorus effect, affecting how noticeable it is within the overall sound. The mix control allows the guitarist to blend the processed and unprocessed signals, balancing the intensity of the effect against the original sound of the guitar.

Chorus pedals can vary greatly in functionality and design, with some offering additional features like vibrato settings or tone-shaping controls. However, the core operation remains the same: to create a lush, shimmering effect that adds depth and warmth to the guitar tone. It’s often associated with the sound of the 1980s, but is versatile enough for use across many genres of music, from rock and pop to blues and jazz. By experimenting with different settings and pedal placements, guitarists can achieve a wide range of sonic possibilities, making the chorus pedal a crucial tool in the guitarist’s arsenal.

What Are The Benefits Of A Chorus Pedal?

A chorus pedal is an essential tool for guitarists looking to add depth, richness, and complexity to their sound. It achieves this by duplicating the guitar signal, modifying the pitch of the duplicate signal, and then merging it with the original signal. This creates an illusion of multiple guitars playing simultaneously, adding a lush, shimmering effect that can enhance any performance.

The controls on a chorus pedal, which usually include speed, depth, and mix, give musicians a great deal of control over the effect. The speed control adjusts the rate at which the pitch fluctuates, adding a sense of movement to the sound. The depth control determines how noticeable the chorus effect is within the overall sound. Meanwhile, the mix control allows for blending the processed and unprocessed signals, balancing the intensity of the effect against the original sound of the guitar.

One of the key benefits of using a chorus pedal is its versatility. This pedal is not bound by any specific genre and can be used in various styles of music, from rock and pop to blues and jazz. It is particularly associated with the sound of the 1980s, but its wide range of sonic possibilities makes it a timeless addition to any musician’s setup.

Another advantage of the chorus pedal is its ability to create a more expansive sound. By duplicating and altering the original guitar signal, the chorus pedal can create a sense of width and depth that would be impossible to achieve with a single guitar. This can be particularly beneficial when playing in large spaces or when recording, as it can help to fill out the sound and create a more immersive listening experience.

Furthermore, chorus pedals often come with additional features like vibrato settings or tone shaping controls, offering even more options for customization. This allows musicians to experiment with different settings and pedal placements, further expanding the range of possible sounds.

In summary, a chorus pedal is an invaluable tool for guitarists, offering a variety of benefits including adding depth and richness to their sound, creating a wider and more complex sound, achieving various chorus effects, and providing versatility for use across many genres of music.

Commanding the Chorus: The Final Note

Choosing the right chorus pedal is a deeply personal task, as it revolves around your individual preferences, music genre, and budget. Our comprehensive list shines a spotlight on some of the best chorus pedals available, all unique in their design, functionality, and benefits.

Whether it’s the Boss CE-2W Waza Craft with its iconic roots and enhanced versatility, or the affordable Ibanez Chorus Mini with its compact design and robust analogue sounds, every pedal brings something unique to your sonic landscape.

On one hand, you have the likes of the Electro-Harmonix Neo Clone and the MXR M234 analogue Chorus offering budget-friendly options without compromising on sound. On the other hand, pedals like the Boss DC-2W Dimension C and the Way Huge Smalls Blue Hippo analogue Chorus strike a balance between innovative features and a classic chorus feel.

And let’s not forget the Walrus Audio Julia analogue Chorus/Vibrato, revered for its seamless blend between dry, chorus, and vibrato sounds or the TC Electronic June-60 V2, celebrated for its authentic recreation of the iconic Roland Juno synths’ chorus effect with added stereo output and adjustable LFO speed.

Decide what suits your musical taste, skill level, and budget. These chorus pedals are all set to add that missing depth, richness, or shimmer to your guitar tone, taking it from the realm of the ordinary to the extraordinary. Happy strumming!