Whether you’re playing a soft ballad or a blistering solo, the right sustain pedal can feel the room with a beautiful, sustained sound loved by all. But does all the sustain pedals are equally impressive? With so many options on the market, finding the one can be overwhelming. That’s why I have rounded up the 7 best sustain pedal for guitar based on sound quality, low noise feature, tone control and overall performance out of the 26 pedals I got my hands into. Let’s dive in for a detailed review and find your favourite among the top-of-the-line sustain pedals.
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- List of 7 Best Sustain Pedal For Guitar
- 1. Wampler Ego Compressor V2 Guitar Effects Pedal (Best Overall)
- 2. Keeley Compressor Plus Pedal (Best Low Noise)
- 3. JOYO JF-10 Dynamic Compressor Guitar Effect Pedal (Best Affordable)
- 4. TC Electronic Guitar Delay Effects Pedal (Best Easy Use)
- 5. Boss CS-3 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal (Best Buffered Bypass)
- 6. Compression Guitar Effects Pedal (Best Mini Pedal)
- 7. MXR Dyna Comp Guitar Effects Pedal (Best Simple Pedal)
- How To Choose The Best Sustain Pedal For Guitar?
- Final Words
List of 7 Best Sustain Pedal For Guitar
1. Wampler Ego Compressor V2 Guitar Effects Pedal (Best Overall)
Key Features
- Potentiometer: 5 (sustain, attack, tone, volume, blend)
- Bypass: True bypass
- Voltage: 9V
- Signal Format: Analog
- Product Weight: 12 ounces
- Product Dimension: 7 x 4 x 7 inches
If you’re looking for a compressor pedal that delivers premium quality sustain, the Wampler Ego is definitely worth checking out. It is a hand-built sustain pedal made in the USA and is widely regarded as one of the best pedals on the market. With the five knobs (sustain, attack, tone, volume, blend), you’ll have all the necessary tools to produce a unique sound for your guitar. With true bypass and lots of EQ settings, this analog pedal balances the volume nicely without a drop in volume. While using the pedal, you won’t find any noise in your tone. On top of it, its compact size makes it perfect for any pedalboard setup. While the 5 potentiometers, premium construction, and high sound quality make it the best in my list, however, the price is something you may need to consider while choosing this pedal.
Pros
- Low noise and high sound quality
- Sturdy metal case
- Compressor and Sustain Pedal for Guitar
- Versatile compression controls
- Controls the mix with a ‘Blend’ potentiometer
- True bypass provides a transparent tone
- Bright LED light
Cons
- Expensive
2. Keeley Compressor Plus Pedal (Best Low Noise)
Key Features
- Potentiometer: 4 (sustain, level, tone, blend)
- Bypass: True bypass
- Voltage: 9V
- Signal Format: Analog
- Product Weight: 10.2 ounces
- Product Dimension: 6.75 x 4.25 x 3.25 inches
Robert Keeley and his Keeley effects are known for making high-quality effects, and one of their most popular offerings is this Compressor Plus. It is commonly called the “4-Knob” compressor pedal that offers controls for sustain, overall level, compression blend, and tone. The compression blend allows you to maintain the natural tone while the tone control adds a touch of brightness to your sound. One of the coolest features of this pedal is the two-way switch for single-coil and humbucker guitars, which adjusts the pedal’s reaction to the higher output of humbucker pickups. Moreover, you’ll fall in love with the low noise feature of this true bypassed analog pedal, which won’t give you any unwanted noise in the signal chain.
Pros
- Combination of low noise compressor and sustain
- High-quality sound
- Versatile compression controls
- True bypass provides a transparent tone
- Easy transition between single coil & humbucker guitars
- Controls the mix with a ‘Blend’ potentiometer
Cons
- No stereo input/output
3. JOYO JF-10 Dynamic Compressor Guitar Effect Pedal (Best Affordable)
Key Features
- Potentiometer: 3 (sustain, level, attack)
- Bypass: True bypass
- Voltage: 9V
- Signal Format: Analog
- Product Weight: 10.2 ounces
- Product Dimension: 4.72 x 2.83 x 2.17 inches
The JOYO Dynamic Compressor/Sustain Pedal is the best affordable pedal on my list. This analog pedal has three controls – sustain, level, and attack. The attack adjustment is designed for bass or high-output active pickups to suit the instruments better. Unlike the Wampler Ego, it doesn’t have a tone knob, but it’s still a decent option for high-quality sound. The true bypass and low noise feature provide a high-quality transparent sound. You can even use this compact-sized pedal as a solo boost at the end of your signal chain. Overall, this sustain pedal is recommended to anyone who needs subtle to moderate compression on a budget.
Pros
- Combination of a low-noise compressor and sustain
- True bypass provides a transparent tone
- Compact design
- Red LED when the pedal is on
- Affordable
- Battery compartment is easily accessible
Cons
- Battery cover is made of plastic
4. TC Electronic Guitar Delay Effects Pedal (Best Easy Use)
Key Features
- Potentiometer: 4 (decay, level, fade in, FX type)
- Voltage: 9V
- Signal Format: Analog
- Product Weight: 12 ounces
- Product Dimension: 4.8 x 2.91 x 1.97 inches
This one from TC Electronic is for guitarists looking to add some sustain to their delay pedal while maintaining clarity in the sound. With up to 2290 ms of delay time, this analog pedal allows for a wide range of sounds and effects. Whether you’re looking for a subtle echo or a full wall of sound, it covers you. The best thing about this pedal is its simplicity. The controls (decay, level, fade-in, FX type) are intuitive and easy to operate. However, to some guitarists, it’s a drawback that the pedal doesn’t have as many options or settings as other delay pedals on the market, such as the blend or volume.
Pros
- High-quality delay and sustain
- Easy to use
- Sturdy construction
- Compact size
- Built-in FX loop to add external effects
Cons
- Pricier compared to other delay pedals
5. Boss CS-3 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal (Best Buffered Bypass)
Key Features
- Potentiometer: 4 (sustain, level, tone, attack)
- Bypass: Buffered bypass
- Voltage: 9V
- Signal Format: Analog
- Product Weight: 1.14 pounds
- Product Dimension: 6 x 3.75 x 2.7 inches
This sustainer pedal from Boss compresses louder signals while boosting lower signals, providing smooth sustain and sound. With controls for Sustain, Level, Attack and Tone, you can really dial in your sound to match your playing style. You can use this analog pedal in various settings, and the buffered bypass will always give you a consistent sound. While some guitarists may find the compression effect too pronounced, it’s a relatively minor issue compared to the overall quality.
Pros
- Combination of a compressor and sustain
- High-quality sound
- Red LED indicates the pedal is on
- Buffered bypass provides a transparent tone
- High-quality circuitry
Cons
- Body cover is plastic
6. Compression Guitar Effects Pedal (Best Mini Pedal)
Key Features
- Potentiometer: 3 (sustain, level, attack)
- Bypass: True bypass
- Voltage: 9V
- Signal Format: Analog
- Product Weight: 11.3 ounces
- Product Dimension: 4.45 x 2.6 x 2.56 inches
This pedal from Asmuse is another affordable pedal after the JOYO JF-10 model on my list. Whether playing a clean low note or a high lead, it is designed to keep your output stable. The pedal is equipped with a 3-knob control panel, including Sustain, Level, and Attack, allowing control over your guitar’s dynamics. This analog pedal also features true bypass, ensuring no signal loss when it’s not in use. The pedal has a tiny size body, making it easy to carry. Some may find that it doesn’t provide enough gain or distortion for heavier genres, but that’s actually not a big issue.
Pros
- Smooth compression tone
- True bypass provides transparent a tone
- Easy to control
- Well-built
- Compact size
Cons
- Not many advanced settings are available
- Compression effects are too subtle
7. MXR Dyna Comp Guitar Effects Pedal (Best Simple Pedal)
Key Features
- Potentiometer: 2 (output, sensitivity)
- Bypass: True bypass
- Voltage: 9V
- Signal Format: Analog
- Product Weight: 1.05 pounds
- Product Dimension: 5.8 x 4.5 x 2.8 inches
The MXR Dyna Comp may look simple but delivers a smooth, transparent compression that enhances your guitar’s sustain and overall sound. The pedal features a simple two-knob (output, sensitivity) design that allows for easy control over the output and sensitivity of the compression. This pedal is for you if you’re looking for a simple and functional pedal to improve the sustain. But the pedal’s two-knob design may not provide enough options for some players.
Pros
- Excellent sustain
- Easy to use
- Sturdy metal cover
- Compact size
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not suitable for high-output pickups
- Noisy when playing single-coil pickups
How To Choose The Best Sustain Pedal For Guitar?
Analog vs. Digital:
Analog pedals are generally preferred by guitarists who prioritize a warm, natural sound over versatility and flexibility. An analog pedal is the best choice if you’re looking for classic guitar effects like overdrive, distortion, or delay. Digital pedals, on the other hand, are favored by guitarists who want a wider range of effects and more control over the sound. Digital pedals are the way to go for more experimental or ambient sounds.
What Are The Difference Between Analog and Digital Pedals?
Analog pedals use a series of circuits and components to create sound, while digital pedals use computer processing. Analog pedals often have a warmer, more natural sound, while digital pedals offer more versatility and can replicate a wide range of sounds.
True vs. Buffered Bypass:
If you’re running a simple pedalboard with just a few effects, a true bypass pedal is the best option for maintaining the integrity of your tone. But if you have a lot of pedals or long cables, go for a buffered bypass pedal that’ll help you to prevent tone loss and signal degradation.
What Do True and Buffered Bypass mean?
True and Buffered refer to how the pedal processes the signal from your guitar when it is not engaged or turned off. With a true bypass when the pedal is not engaged, no additional circuitry or electronics affects the sound of your guitar. On the other hand, a buffered bypass pedal includes an active buffer circuit that changes the impedance of the signal when the pedal is turned off. They can also provide a slight boost to the signal.
Low Noise:
Low noise is also key for achieving the best possible sound quality. Look for pedals with low noise attributes to ensure the sound remains clear and consistent.
Why Is Low Noise Important In A Sustain Pedal?
We want to maintain the notes longer when playing with a sustain pedal. But when the pedal produces excessive noise or interference, it impacts the tone and clarity of the guitar’s sound. A sustain pedal with low noise is crucial for maintaining a clean, high-quality sound.
Tone Control:
Look for pedals with flexible EQ options like attack, blend, and level. These will help you cut through the mix and achieve your desired sound in a band setting or recording environment.
Why Should You Care About Tone Control In A Sustain Pedal?
The tone controls are crucial for fine-tuning. By adjusting the tone control, you shape the signal’s frequency response, creating a brighter or darker sound, depending on preferences. The tone controls truly make a significant difference in achieving the desired sound.
Size:
Size is an important consideration when you travel or play live shows. Look for compact and easy transport pedals, especially if your pedalboard has limited space. However, try not to sacrifice functionality for size, as larger pedals may offer more controls and features.
Why Is Considering Size Important In A Sustain Pedal?
A larger pedal is especially beneficial for guitarists who play for extended periods or have larger feet. On the other hand, a smaller pedal is ideal when you have limited space on the pedalboard or prefer a more compact setup.
Final Words
Choosing the right sustain pedal can make all the difference in your guitar playing. Whether you’re looking for a classic rock sound, a versatile option, or a budget-friendly choice, the 7 best sustain pedal for guitar on this list offer something for every guitarist. We know that different types of sustain pedals affect the sound differently. For instance, some pedals are designed to provide a longer sustain, while others allow for more precise control over the sustain’s intensity. So, choose wisely by considering the abovementioned factors and find the right sustain pedal for you.