10 Best Reverb Pedals of 2024

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Hey there, fellow music lover! Are you on a quest for the best reverb pedals to add that extra magic to your guitar sound? Well, you're not alone!

We understand the struggle of finding the ideal reverb that captures the essence of your playing and transports your audience to a whole new sonic dimension.

In this guide, we'll not only introduce you to the top reverb pedals on the market but also provide you with valuable insights and knowledge to help you make an informed decision.

We'll discuss different types of reverb effects, highlight key features to consider, and even offer tips on how to maximize the potential of your new pedal.

Our top pick, the Strymon Blue Sky V2, is sure to expand your sonic palette to new dimensions.

Let's dive in and explore the world of reverb pedals together!

Best Reverb Pedals

1. Best Overall – Strymon Blue Sky V2

SPECS

• Analog/Digital: Digital
• Presets: 1 x Favorite
• Power Source: 9V DC 300mA power supply

Strymon consistently ranks among the top choices in pedal surveys, and this year they have released a revamped V2 model of their smaller-format Blue Sky reverb, solidifying their position.

They have made intelligent changes by removing some secondary functions that could be challenging for certain musicians and placing more options on the pedal's face, resulting in an overall improved product.

The plate, room, and spring reverb modes remain, but now the modulation functions have their own switch, and the shimmer effect has its dedicated knob. The behaviors of the shimmer effect have also been expanded.

Additionally, they have replaced the high and low damp controls with high and low EQ controls and added a premium analog JFET input stage to the Blue Sky V2.

Strymon has introduced stereo input (which can be switched) and output, full MIDI implementation, and USB capability for updates.

While you can still utilize the secondary functions if desired, such as tremolo with the spring reverb tone, these enhancements are a welcome improvement and certainly worth considering for an upgrade.

Want to learn more about delay pedals? See our picks for the Best Delay Pedals.

2. Best Vintage Vibe – Catalinbread Topanga Spring Reverb Pedal

SPECS

• Analog/Digital: Digital
• Presets: No
• Power Source: 9-18V DC power supply

If you're in search of the ultimate surf rock reverb pedal, look no further.

Catalinbread has meticulously captured the authentic sounds of the iconic '60s outboard tanks covered in tolex—the flutter, cluck, clang, and drippy splash—all within a visually appealing pedal featuring vintage-style Mix, Tone, and Dwell control.

But that's not all; it also incorporates a Volume knob that adjusts a discrete preamp, offering an optional clean boost when desired.

While the outboard spring reverb units of the '60s typically had a touch of dry signal mixed in, Catalinbread has taken the Mix knob to the next level, granting it extra functionality.

You have the freedom to set the Mix anywhere between 100% dry and 100% wet, allowing you to discover the perfect sonic blend for the desired vibe. This level of control was not offered by vintage units.

Moreover, the pedal incorporates a discrete preamp that can be adjusted using the Volume knob, providing a generous amount of clean boost when desired.

The Tone control specifically affects the reverb, enabling you to dial in a range from bright and sparkling to dark and warm, reminiscent of the depths of Southern California.

Lastly, the Dwell knob governs the intensity at which the springs are driven, offering the flexibility to achieve anything from subtle, hollow tones to awe-inspiring, expansive reverberations that befit the name Topanga.

3. Budget Pick – Behringer DR600 Digital Reverb Pedal

SPECS

• Analog/Digital: Digital
• Presets: No
• Power Source: 9V DC

Enhance your live guitar setup by incorporating professional-quality reverbs with the Behringer Digital Reverb DR600 effect pedal. This effect pedal, boasting 24-bit digital reverb capabilities, delivers rich and immersive reverberations suited for various scenarios.

If you seek the classic amp reverb, simply adjust the settings to the spring reverb option. For a more refined studio ambiance, select either the plate or hall reverb.

Additionally, the Modulate setting introduces a subtle detuning effect to the reverb tail, resulting in a chorus-like sound. With dual outputs, you can opt for a mono signal or connect two amplifiers for an expansive stereo experience.

4. Heavy Atmosphere – Meris Mercury7 Reverb Pedal

SPECS

• Analog/Digital: Digital with Analog Signal Bypass
• Presets: Available with additional favorite switch
• Power Source: 9V DC power supply

Drawing inspiration from the expansive and atmospheric modulated reverbs heard on the iconic Blade Runner soundtrack by the pioneering composer Vangelis, the Meris Mercury7 is an exhilarating and adventurous reverb pedal that will captivate guitarists, synthesists, and sound designers alike.

Named after the original American astronaut group, this reverberator takes you on a sonic journey through space, offering meticulously crafted reverb algorithms and extensive modulation capabilities to create immersive and evocative reverbs.

The Mercury7 features precise control over high and low-frequency dampening, allowing you to shape its tonal characteristics, while its remarkable auto-swell function enables breathtaking ambient crescendos.

Adding a touch of harmonic complexity to the wet signal, the Mercury7 presents a Pitch Vector control with various intervals, including subtle pitch variations, fifths, octaves, and shimmer effects.

As with all Meris pedals, the Mercury7 provides a wealth of in-depth features accessible through a press-and-hold Alt control and/or expression jack.

These features enable you to fine-tune parameters such as pre-delay, modulation, vibrato speed and depth, attack time for the swell function, and a mix control for the pitch-shifted reflections.

No matter your preferred method of interfacing with your pedals, the Mercury7 accommodates your needs with versatility and flexibility.

5. A Cool Combination – Keeley Caverns V2 Delay and Reverb Pedal

SPECS

• Analog/Digital: Digital
• Presets: No
• Power Source: 9V DC 100mA power supply

The Keeley Caverns V2 effects pedal for electric guitar combines three delightful reverb types with an analog-style tape delay, presenting two essential effects in one unit.

The delay section, inspired by Keeley's Magnetic Echo delay, offers a versatile range of up to 650ms, and you have the option to introduce modulation for an added touch of analog charm.

On the reverb side, you can explore Spring, Shimmer, and Modulated reverb modes, with modulation control provided by the Rate knob.

This pedal is particularly well-suited for genres like ambient music and surf rock, but it's versatile enough for various musical styles.

Regardless of the genre you create, the Keeley Caverns V2 packs two indispensable guitar effects into a single, ready-to-use pedal that's perfect for gigging.

Many guitarists appreciate when delay and reverb pedals offer "Trails," which allow the effect to naturally decay when the pedal is switched off, rather than abruptly cutting off the effect. The Keeley Caverns V2 satisfies this preference.

When Trails mode is engaged, the pedal utilizes a buffered bypass to maintain signal quality and allows the effects to decay gracefully after switching. However, if you prefer True Bypass switching, that option is also available.

6. Perfect for Smaller Boards – Zoom MS-70CDR

SPECS

• Analog/Digital: Digital
• Presets: 30 x Factory Presets, 50 x User
• Power Source: USB Bus powered / 9V DC power supply

Despite its small size and affordable price, this little pedal holds its ground in the reverb category and has gained a dedicated following.

The Zoom MS-70CDR is a stereo pedal that aimed to replicate many popular reverb pedals, and it did a commendable job overall.

It's worth noting that some tweaking is often necessary to achieve the desired sound, but Zoom offers a free app (with ToneLib being particularly useful) that allows extensive customization.

This makes it easy to fine-tune settings, back up presets, and even chain up to six effects within each preset, including delays, EQs, modulations, and more.

If you are looking for the best reverb pedal deals, the Zoom MS-70CDR comes remarkably close and offers exceptional value for just a quarter of the price.

7. High-Tech Sounds – Red Panda Labs Context

SPECS

• Analog/Digital: Digital
• Presets: 1 x User (4 via remote footswitch, 127 via MIDI)
• Power Source: 9V DC power supply

If we solely consider sound and features without factoring in price, the Red Panda Labs Context would easily secure a spot on this list of the best reverb pedals.

When it comes to sound quality, stereo capability, extensive features, and solid construction, the Context deserves serious consideration.

The quality of its reverbs is unparalleled, with the hall and cathedral settings particularly standing out as some of the best in the category.

The Context also incorporated a reverse reverb patch, catering to the Shoegaze trend even before its recent resurgence.

The grains mode is another highlight, offering a more organic and immersive granular reverb experience compared to other recent models.

The availability of secondary functions and their parameter controls proves highly useful, and the pedal conveniently stores one preset accessible via a switch on its face.

Furthermore, you can assign parameters to an external expression pedal, and Red Panda Labs provides a web app for further tweaking and customization.

8. Extreme Adjustability – Source Audio Ventris Dual Reverb

SPECS

• Analog/Digital: Digital
• Presets: 8 x Savable Presets
• Power Source: 9V DC power supply

Source Audio stands out as a leader in combining pedal technology with an extensive and immersive app experience. It offers a wide range of reverb options and parameters, providing a comprehensive and versatile package.

While some people may feel intimidated by apps, Source Audio has taken steps to make it incredibly accessible.

They have created easy-to-read categories, elegant graphics, and a user-friendly Neuro app that fosters a connected community of users and presets.

With the Neuro app, it's effortless to explore and try new presets from other users, customize them to your preferences, and save them to your device and computer. Alternatively, you can start from scratch and fine-tune settings to your heart's content.

9. A Truly Cosmic Reverb – Eventide Blackhole

SPECS

• Analog/Digital: Digital
• Presets: 5 x Factory (128 via MIDI)
• Power Source: 9V DC power supply

The Blackhole algorithm has been a favorite mode in the Eventide H9, so it is thrilling to see it receive its own dedicated pedal.

If you're seeking vast and otherworldly soundscapes, the Blackhole is an excellent choice. It is the perfect secondary reverb pedal for your setup. Even if you already own another reverb pedal, it won't replicate the unique qualities of the Blackhole.

The pedal includes five presets, which proves to be quite handy. While it offers a few secondary functions, they are easily accessible through the front panel knobs by holding down one of the switches.

Additionally, the right foot switch allows you to freeze and hold your reverb sound, making it effortless to create sustained drones. It's a brilliant feature.

Overall, the H9 is a versatile multi-effects unit capable of many different sounds, so having both the Blackhole pedal and the H9 expands your sonic possibilities even further. The Blackhole pedal adds value to your H9 and complements its capabilities.

10. A Classic Pick – TC Electronics Hall of Fame V2

SPECS

• Analog/Digital: Digital
• Presets: 3 x TonePrint Slots
• Power Source: 9V DC power supply

It's true that the TC Hall of Fame is a notable omission from any list of reverb pedals. It is widely recognized as one of the most versatile and useful pedals in the market, and the V2 version, enhanced with Mash technology, further improves its capabilities.

While it may be easy to overlook its potential, diving into the accompanying app reveals a treasure trove of possibilities.

By delving deep into the app, you can create intriguing and diverse reverb combinations, incorporating various modulation options, dynamic reverb with compression, and expansive soundscapes. The ability to save these creations to my computer ensures easy recall for future use.

The addition of Mash technology is particularly impressive as it essentially provides a secondary expression pedal function that can be customized within the app.

The mapping options are extensive, allowing for adjustments such as increased modulation, enhanced mix, or any other parameter of choice.

The TC Hall of Fame remains a classic and essential reverb pedal, offering an extensive selection of reverbs to choose from and ensuring a timeless appeal.

Best Reverb Pedals Buyer's Guide

When shopping for the best reverb pedal to suit your needs, there are four important factors you should consider:

• Sound Quality
• Versatility and Controls
• Pedal Size and Design
• Reverb Modes and Features

Sound Quality

When it comes to shopping for a great reverb pedal, sound quality should be at the top of your list of considerations. After all, the main purpose of a reverb pedal is to enhance your guitar's sound with natural and captivating reverberation.

A high-quality reverb pedal should provide realistic and authentic reverberation effects. It should accurately emulate the acoustics of different environments, such as concert halls, rooms, plates, or springs.

The goal is to create a sense of space and ambiance that sounds natural to the listener's ear. When the sound quality is top-notch, your guitar will come alive with depth, richness, and professional touch.

The best reverb pedals can transport your music to another dimension, immersing both you and your audience in a captivating sonic experience. The sound quality of the pedal plays a significant role in achieving this.

It should create an immersive and atmospheric environment, whether you're aiming for a subtle and intimate reverberation or a grand and expansive sound. The better the sound quality, the more effectively the pedal will help you craft the desired mood and ambiance.

While reverb adds texture and depth, it's essential to maintain clarity and transparency in your guitar's overall sound. A high-quality reverb pedal will blend seamlessly with your dry signal, preserving the clarity and definition of your playing.

It should enhance the sound without overpowering or muddying the original tones. With excellent sound quality, you can be confident that the reverb effect will enhance your sound rather than detract from it.

Whether you're recording in a studio or performing live on stage, the sound quality of your reverb pedal will directly impact the overall quality of your music. A pedal with superior sound reproduction will elevate your recordings and performances, making them sound more professional and polished.

It's crucial to choose a reverb pedal that can faithfully reproduce the nuances of your playing, capturing the subtle intricacies and dynamics of your performance.

Versatility and Controls

When you're on the hunt for the best reverb pedal, one crucial aspect to consider is the pedal's versatility and the range of controls it offers.

A versatile reverb pedal opens up a world of creative possibilities for your guitar playing. It allows you to experiment with different reverb types and tailor the effect to suit various musical genres and styles.

Whether you're aiming for a subtle, natural reverb tone or an otherworldly, atmospheric texture, having a wide range of controls at your disposal empowers you to shape and mold the sound according to your artistic vision.

Whether you're playing in a small bedroom studio, a lively concert hall, or a cozy coffee shop, the versatility of your reverb pedal ensures it adapts to various environments. Different reverb types and adjustable parameters allow you to dial in the appropriate ambiance for the specific setting.

Being able to adjust the pedal's settings on the fly gives you the flexibility to deliver the right sound and atmosphere, no matter where you're performing.

Pedal Size and Design

Although it may seem like a minor detail compared to sound quality and features, pedal size and design play a crucial role in your overall playing experience. If you use a pedalboard to organize and control your guitar effects, the size of the reverb pedal becomes critical.

Pedals come in various sizes, ranging from compact to larger formats. Choosing a compact pedal that fits well on your pedalboard ensures efficient use of space and allows for easy integration with other pedals.

It helps maintain a neat and organized setup, making it easier to navigate and activate your effects during performances or recording sessions.

The design and layout of the reverb pedal's controls and footswitches also contribute to its usability. Intuitive and well-positioned controls make it easier to make adjustments on the fly, allowing you to dial in the desired reverb settings quickly and efficiently.

Similarly, responsive and sturdy footswitches ensure seamless operation, minimizing the risk of accidentally engaging or disengaging the effect during critical moments of your performance.

Reverb Modes and Features

When exploring the world of reverb, it's important to understand the different types of reverb effects they can produce. Each type offers a unique sonic character and ambiance, allowing you to shape your guitar's sound in various ways.

Plate reverb is named after the large metal plates used to create the effect in early studio setups. It produces a smooth and dense reverberation that adds a sense of depth and warmth to your sound.

Plate reverb is known for its even decay and balanced tonal qualities, making it a versatile choice for various musical genres. It can range from subtle and natural to lush and shimmering, depending on the settings and intensity applied.

Shimmer reverb is a type of effect that adds ethereal and angelic qualities to your guitar's sound. It creates a dreamy and atmospheric texture by emphasizing high-frequency content and adding harmonically rich layers to the reverberation.

Shimmer often has an otherworldly and celestial quality, making it a popular choice for ambient, post-rock, and shoegaze music styles.

Hall and cathedral reverbs simulate the spaciousness and grandeur of large concert halls and cathedrals. They create a sense of expansiveness and natural resonance, allowing your sound to bloom and linger in a virtual acoustic environment.

Hall reverb tends to have a more balanced decay, while cathedral reverb has longer and more pronounced reflections, resulting in a highly immersive and awe-inspiring effect.

Modulated reverb incorporates modulation effects, such as chorus or vibrato, into the reverberation. This adds movement and dimension to the reverb trails, creating a swirling and shifting sound.

Modulated reverb can range from subtle and gentle modulation for a touch of warmth and movement to more pronounced and dramatic modulation for experimental or psychedelic sounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are reverb pedals only for electric guitars, or can they be used with acoustic guitars as well?

Reverb pedals can be used with both electric guitars and acoustic guitars. While reverb is commonly associated with electric guitar tones, it is also widely used with acoustic guitars to add depth, warmth, and a sense of space to the instrument's natural sound.

Read our full write-up on the best acoustic guitar pickups.

Can reverb pedals be powered by batteries, or do they require a separate power supply?

Reverb pedals can typically be powered either by batteries or by a separate power supply. The specific power requirements may vary depending on the pedal model, so it's essential to check the manufacturer's specifications or user manual for the recommended power source.

What is the difference between digital and analog reverb pedals?

The difference between digital and analog reverb pedals lies in the way they generate and process the reverberation effect.

Analogreverb pedals use analog circuitry to create reverberation effects. They often employ springs or physical plates to capture and manipulate the sound.

Digital reverb, on the other hand, utilizes digital signal processing (DSP) technology to digitally emulate the reverberation effect.

Conclusion

The world of reverb pedals is vast and filled with a diverse array of options to suit every taste and preference. We have explored some of the best reverb pedals available, each with its own unique characteristics and strengths.

For those seeking unparalleled sound quality and a plethora of options, the Strymon Blue Sky V2 stands out as our top pick. Its expansive range of reverbs, customizable parameters, and advanced features make it a favorite among musicians of all genres.

Ultimately, the best reverb pedal for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you're chasing dreamy soundscapes, experimenting with unconventional effects, or simply seeking a reliable and affordable option, there is a perfect reverb pedal on this list to suit your desires. If these are out of your price range, we encourage you take a look at our top budget options.