From the Pretenders and Prince to Mac DeMarco and Japanese Breakfast, the chorus pedal has a four-decade history of providing lush, glistening sonic depth to guitars in almost every genre you can imagine.
That said, there is surely no effect more misunderstood or underestimated. Even though artists from Nirvana to Metallica to Songhoy Blues have made powerful use of it across a wide range of styles, chorus is still often associated in our minds with 1980s pop and new wave guitar sounds.
But in recent years, the chorus has entered a renaissance, thanks to a resurgence of synth pop, new generations of experiment-friendly guitarists, and engineering leaps from pedal manufacturers.
In this article we’ll take a look at what we consider the best chorus pedals of the year and help you navigate the rich and varied offerings out there. Whether you’re looking for a first chorus pedal, a boutique pedal or Kurt Cobain’s “Come as You Are” chorus, you can find a pedal in any price range to meet your sonic craving.
It doesn’t matter if it’s dreamy synth pop, math rock, country or if you’re inventing your own new genre, there is a chorus today that will fit the bill. Let’s take a look.
Table of Contents
How Does a Chorus Pedal Work?
Comparing the Top Chorus Pedals
The Best Chorus Pedals of 2024
BOSS CE-2W Chorus
BOSS CE-5 Chorus Ensemble
Electro-Harmonix Eddy Analog Vibrato & Chorus
Electro-Harmonix Small Clone Analog Chorus
Eventide TriceraChorus
GAMMA Eros Clean Chorus
JHS 3 Series Chorus
Keeley Seafoam Plus Chorus
MXR M234 Analog Chorus
MXR WA38 Wylde Audio Chorus
Old Blood Noise Endeavors Reflector Chorus
Source Audio Gemini Chorus
Strymon Ola dBucket Vibrato/Chorus
TC Electronic Afterglow Chorus
TC Electronic SCF Gold Stereo Chorus Flanger
Universal Audio Astra Modulation Machine
Walrus Audio Julia V2 Analog Chorus/Vibrato
Warm Audio WA-C1 Stereo Chorus and Vibrato
In Closing
How Does a Chorus Pedal Work?
To best understand what makes one chorus pedal different from another, it’s good to know exactly what a chorus effect does. And, to understand what a chorus effect is, and how it achieves that dreamy, doubling effect, we first have to understand vibrato.
Vibrato, like chorus, is a modulation effect. That means that it changes, or modulates, specific aspects of your guitar sound or signal, like pitch, time or phase. Flanger, tremolo and phaser also fall in this modulation category.
Vibrato specifically modulates, or affects, pitch. It is a subtle and periodic changing of the pitch of your signal, like what you’d get from bending a string. This creates a wavering, slightly wobbly sound.
Chorus effectively does the same thing, with one important difference. It first makes a copy of your signal, delays it ever so slightly, and then modulates the pitch of that copy by periodically changing the delay time with an LFO, playing it in tandem with your original, unaffected signal, doubling the sound while thickening it through the variations in pitch.
By adjusting the modulation rate and depth of that second (and sometimes third or fourth) signal and sometimes even changing the shape of the waveforms, you can reach a stunning array of sounds from the crystalline tones of “Don’t Dream It’s Over” by Crowded House, to the tight doubling of Johnny Marr’s guitar on the Smiths’ “This Charming Man” or Mac DeMarco’s “Dreaming Up Something Good,” to the spooky depths of Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Game” or Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”
Comparing the Top Chorus Pedals
Pedal Name |
Tonal Characteristics |
Power Draw |
Total Voicings |
Spacious, modulated analog warmth |
9V DC, 25mA |
3 |
|
Bright, clear tones, from natural to intensely effected |
9V DC, 55mA |
1 |
|
Classic chorus and vibrato with unique shape |
9V DC, 40mA |
2 |
|
Classic, organic, lush effect from clear to pulsating |
9V DC, 12mA |
1 |
|
Three-dimensional, lush chorus |
9V DC, 500mA |
1 |
|
Clean chorus with a touch of compression, plus mid-boost |
9V DC, 50mA |
1 |
|
Gorgeous, wide effect with pitch-warbling vibrato |
9V DC, 70mA |
1 |
|
Dynamic and expressive, from bass-specific on up |
9V DC, 65mA |
2 |
|
Liquid textures and a lavish quality |
9V DC, 20mA |
1 |
|
Thick, depth-filled chorus |
9V DC, 20mA |
1 |
|
Experimental, multi-textured chorus |
9V DC, 110mA |
3 |
|
Lusciously smooth to an ’80s-style in-your-face effect |
9V DC, 150mA |
3 |
|
Pristine, richly textured chorus |
9V DC, 250mA |
3 |
|
Rich chorus from an analog bucket brigade circuit |
9V DC or AC, 60mA |
1 |
|
Easily goes from subtle chorus to extreme flange |
9V DC, 100mA |
2 |
|
Massive versatility meets meticulous sound design |
9-18V DC, 120mA |
3 |
|
Smooth, detailed chorus/vibrato |
9V DC, 100mA |
3 |
|
Vintage-style sound in a retro-style package |
9V DC, 50mA |
2 |
The Best Chorus Pedals of 2024
BOSS CE-2W Chorus
Why It's Cool: Made in Japan, this all-analog Waza Craft pedal authentically replicates the legendary CE-2 chorus sound, with sonic versatility and depth that extends beyond the original.
Things to Consider:
- Equipped with a stereo output not seen on the original mono CE-2 pedal
- Switchable modes offer both classic and new chorus sounds via bucket brigade circuitry
- Premium Waza Craft construction ensures superior durability and sound quality
Pictured: BOSS CE-2W Waza Craft Chorus
In 1976, BOSS created the very first chorus pedal, the BOSS Chorus Ensemble CE-1. It featured both chorus and vibrato effects, and brought chorus into stomping reach of guitarists. 1979’s CE-2 was more compact (in part because it sacrificed the vibrato), and became one of the most coveted pedals of the past four decades.
If you’re seeking the legendary versatility of the CE-1, and the lush, crystalline sound of the CE-2, but can’t invest in two vintage pedals, the BOSS CE-2W Chorus Waza Craft Guitar Effects Pedal is the stompbox of your dreams. The Waza Craft engineers have meticulously recreated both the 1976 CE-1 and the ’79 CE-2 in one beautiful all-analog bucket-brigade box.
The CE-2W features modes that replicate both the CE-1 and CE-2, plus a vibrato mode that captures the coveted CE-1 effect lost when pedals downsized. This pedal stands to set the bar for a new generation of chorus pedals just as those first BOSS pedals did in the ’70s.
BOSS CE-5 Chorus Ensemble
Why It's Cool: It delivers pristine digital chorus effects, from subtle to extreme, with high and low filters for detailed tonal shaping, making it a chameleon of a pedal for any genre.
Things to Consider:
- Mono input, but stereo output for expansive sound staging
- High- and low-cut filters for precise tonal adjustment
- Compact form factor and light power draw
Pictured: BOSS CE-5 Chorus Ensemble
BOSS originated the chorus pedal and created the industry standard—but they’ve never been ones to rest on their laurels. Originally introduced as an analog pedal in 1991, the BOSS CE-5 Chorus Ensemble Pedal went all-digital in 2001. It’s the next step in the natural evolution of the storied CE line, with low and high filter controls for more detailed tone-shaping control, and both stereo and mono outputs.
The CE-5 carries all the luscious chorus sounds that make the CE line so special, including a vibrato reminiscent of the CE-1 when you crank that rate knob all the way open.
Electro-Harmonix Eddy Analog Vibrato & Chorus
Why It's Cool: It provides a vibrant, swirling chorus and vibrato effects with a unique envelope and expression pedal control, offering dynamic interactivity with your playing.
Things to Consider:
- Six knobs and two switches—including innovative modulation rate and depth control
- Mono in and out
- Expression pedal input allows for endless possibilities
Pictured: Electro-Harmonix Eddy Analog Vibrato & Chorus
Electro-Harmonix makes another appearance on our best-of list with the Electro-Harmonix Eddy Analog Vibrato & Chorus. While the Small Clone captures vintage goodness, the Eddy takes a more modern approach with more detailed effects control and rich, all-analog chorus and vibrato in one pedal.
One of the most notable features on the Eddy is the shape knob that allows you to fine-tune your waveforms subtly and incrementally from gentle to jagged. You can also dial in how much your playing dynamics affect either the rate or depth of your effect, or you can connect an expression pedal to control it on the fly.
Electro-Harmonix Small Clone Analog Chorus
Why It's Cool: Famed for its rich, analog effect that defined the sound of an era, it offers a singular depth control that creates significant sonic variations, from subtle to deep.
Things to Consider:
- One-knob design may limit tonal versatility—though it can also limit “paralysis by analysis”
- Analog circuitry provides a warm organic tone, while keeping to a conservative power draw
- Offers true bypass
Pictured: Electro-Harmonix Eddy Analog Vibrato & Chorus
Electro-Harmonix had high hopes for the Small Clone chorus pedal when they released it in 1979, but they couldn’t have imagined that the pedal would rocket to fame some 12 years later when Kurt Cobain used it on Nirvana’s “Come as You Are.” The Small Clone became a pedalboard staple for some of the most influential guitarists of the era, favored by greats like J Mascis, Pat Smear, the Edge and Bob Mould.
The Electro-Harmonix Small Clone Analog Chorus is a faithful all-analog reissue that delivers all that luxurious sound with two simple controls—one depth switch and one rate knob. It’s a very adaptable pedal, with its sonic range swinging from a tight, warm shimmer to a wild, loose warble.
Eventide TriceraChorus
Why It's Cool: Its extensive yet intuitive UI readily lets you immerse yourself in a trinity of lush, dimensional chorus waves—five presets let you immortalize your favorite vibes.
Things to Consider:
- Requires 500mA to unlock its full feature set
- Stereo outputs offer expansive soundscapes that enhance any performance
- Innovative "Bucket Loss" feature simulates the warmth of classic bucket brigade devices
Pictured: Eventide TriceraChorus
The Eventide TriceraChorus is a boutique pedal that envelopes your sound in a wave of three synchronized choruses, creating an expansive stereo field that can be as subtle or as overwhelming as you desire. With its multiple chorus modes, including Chorale for a rich, choir-like effect, this pedal goes beyond the traditional to offer innovative tonal possibilities. Crafted with Eventide's precision, the TriceraChorus is equipped with a micro pitch-shifting function, adding depth and dimension to your playing.
In addition to the chorus, the TriceraChorus features an innovative Swirl function, bringing in a lush, Leslie-style vibrato that's fully adjustable for speed and depth. This additional layer of modulation makes the pedal an invaluable asset for creating unique, moving textures. The TriceraChorus isn't just a pedal, it's a creative tool that invites musicians to explore the boundaries of their sound.
GAMMA Eros Clean Chorus
Why It's Cool: Experience transparent chorus effects that subtly enhance your tone without coloring it in an affordable, compact pedal designed for letting your original signal shine through.
Things to Consider:
- Designed for transparent operation to let your original signal shine through.
- True-bypass switching preserves your tone when the effect is off.
- Small footprint fits easily on any pedalboard setup.
Pictured: GAMMA Eros Clean Chorus
The GAMMA Eros Clean Chorus Effects Pedal loves to deliver a clear, transparent, yet sensual sound that's perfect for adding depth and width to your guitar tone. Its built-in compressor section helps to even out your dynamics, while its 'Midrange Boost' feature enhances the mid-range frequencies of your sound. From subtle enhancement to dramatic transformation, you'll love the Eros.
JHS 3 Series Chorus
Why It's Cool: This made-in-USA pedal simplifies achieving a lush, dimensional chorus effect, making it accessible for players at any skill level with its straightforward two-knob layout.
Things to Consider:
- Minimalist, streamlined 3-knob design with Vibe (wet/mixed) switch keeps it simple
- Quality build that’s reflected in its sonic character
- Compact footprint fits easily on any pedalboard
Pictured: JHS Pedals 3 Series Chorus
The JHS Pedals 3 Series Chorus is the ultimate in elegant minimalism and no-nonsense operation. With three knobs and a vibrato switch, this pedal is as straightforward as they come. But don’t confuse simplicity with limitations—this pedal’s range is deceptively wide.
We love the vibe switch on this pedal, which removes your dry signal, leaving you with a beautiful pitch-shifting vibrato.The JHS 3 Series are designed to sound amazing while staying simple and affordable, and they’re made in the U.S.A.—right in the JHS Kansas City facility.
Keeley Seafoam Plus Chorus
Why It's Cool: Offers players an intuitive approach to achieving both subtle and pronounced chorus effects, with added tone-shaping controls and dynamic modulation options.
Things to Consider:
- Automatic double tracking adds depth and space, plus ADSR control for tweakable response
- Switchable guitar and bass mode via dip switch—also great for experimenting
- Mono in and out
Pictured: Keeley Seafoam Plus Chorus
At the opposite end of the spectrum is the maximalist Keeley Seafoam Plus Chorus, a deceptively versatile pedal. It’s hard to know where to begin with this box, because it does so much. It features internal switching for vintage and modern voicing, as well as guitar- and bass-specific voicing options. Oh, and it works as a flanger and a tremolo, too.
The Keeley Seafoam has three modes: ADT, Seafoam and Dual Chorus. ADT is based on the automatic doubler Keeley created for the 30ms Double Tracker. It adds two voices at different pitches for a rich, wide chorus. Seafoam is classic chorus reminiscent of our bucket brigade favorites. Dual Chorus allows you to adjust the depth of the chorus effect independently for high and low tone ranges. There’s so much happening in this pedal, and we’ve barely scratched the surface. Definitely head down to a GC and give this one a spin.
MXR M234 Analog Chorus
Why It's Cool: The Analog Chorus pedal stands out with its adjustable rate, level and depth controls, offering a wide range of sounds, from subtle shimmer to intense swirl.
Things to Consider:
- True analog path featuring bucket brigade circuitry for classic chorus warmth
- Five knobs, including 2-band EQ, for simple yet comprehensive tonal control
- True bypass keeps your signal unaltered when the pedal is disengaged
Pictured: MXR M234 Analog Chorus
The MXR M234 Analog Chorus is incredibly versatile, thanks in part to high- and low-cut tone shaping knobs that provide sonic detail ranging from round and full to crisp and crystalline.
Tweak the rate and depth knobs and you can hit a near-Leslie level of wobble that you can intensify even more with the pedal’s built-in stereo functionality. This beauty was first released in 2011, and still holds a place in our hearts and on our pedalboards, thanks to its many applications.
MXR WA38 Wylde Audio Chorus
Why It's Cool: You can get Zakk Wylde’s signature chorus sound straight from this pedal, and make it all your own with easy-to-use controls in a compact form factor.
Things to Consider:
- Very efficient energy consumption, at 20mA
- Its robust build ensures it can withstand the rigors of touring
- True-bypass switching preserves your guitar's tone when the pedal is disengaged
Pictured: MXR WA38 Wylde Audio Chorus
The MXR Wylde Audio Chorus is a powerhouse pedal that brings Zakk Wylde's distinctive, larger-than-life chorus sound to your pedalboard. With its straightforward interface and high-quality circuitry, this pedal allows you to effortlessly add a dimension of depth and space to your riffs and solos. Whether you're playing biting leads with searing pinch harmonics—or heavy, rhythmic chord work—the MXR Wylde Audio Chorus offers the presence and power to stand out.
Wylde Audio Chorus’ intuitive controls, such as Rate and Depth, allow guitarists to seamlessly switch between a light, shimmering texture and a deep, undulating wave. The pedal's mono and stereo output options offer flexibility for both mono rigs and more expansive stereo setups, providing a full spectrum of chorus effects tailored to the needs of every player, from the bedroom to the stage.
Old Blood Noise Endeavors Reflector Chorus
Why It's Cool: Distinguished by its ability to produce experimental and textured chorus sounds, this pedal boasts additional octave and reverb effects, setting it apart from conventional chorus pedals.
Things to Consider:
- Output level can be adjusted by the internal trimpot, slight drop or unity gain
- Enhanced versatility with octave and reverb effects makes this a multi-purpose pedal
- Very unique aesthetic design complements its unconventional sonic character
Pictured: Old Blood Noise Endeavors Reflector Chorus
One of our Guitar Center colleagues referred to the Old Blood Noise Endeavors Reflector Chorus as “a chorus pedal on steroids,” and we have to say that’s a pretty apt description. With intense pitch shift, flanger and octave features, the Reflector can provide traditional chorus or you can tweak it to create some of the trippiest, detuned, wiggly sounds imaginable.
The Reflector features three modes: Wrinkle, Washed and Mirrors. Wrinkle leans heavily on a vibrato vibe and allows pitch control through the modulate knob. Washed is a classic, lush chorus with pre-effect reverb (also controlled with modulate knob), and Mirrors is a delightful mashup of chorus and flanger. It’s difficult to put into words the breadth of weirdness accessible with this pedal. We highly recommend giving it a test drive.
Source Audio Gemini Chorus
Why It's Cool: This pedal introduces a digital approach to the chorus, allowing for an extensive range of highly customizable sounds through its intuitive interface and stereo I/O.
Things to Consider:
- Advanced digital processing for a wide range of sounds
- Stereo inputs/outputs for immersive chorus effects
- Requires external software for deeper editing capabilities
Pictured: Source Audio Gemini Chorus
The Source Audio One Series Gemini Chorus Guitar Pedal creates some of the creamiest, smoothest chorus sounds you’re likely to find this side of the 1970s. It features three distinct chorus effects. Classic provides a single-voiced chorus reminiscent of the pioneering early pedals, while Quad Chorus has the gloss of 1980s rack units. Dual Chorus adds a second voice for a slightly more modern doubling effect.
The Gemini is compatible with the Source Audio Neuro App, which can plug phaser and flanger algorithms into your pedal, as well as providing a huge array of tonal and effect controls.
Strymon Ola dBucket Chorus/Vibrato
Why It's Cool: This Strymon stompbox lets you drench your sound in a sea of crystal-clear, analog-quality chorus and vibrato effects.
Things to Consider:
- Detailed digital processing needs a higher-than-average power draw of 250mA
- Features stereo input and output
- Offers three dynamic modes: Standard, Multi and Vibrato for diverse sound shaping
Pictured: Strymon Ola dBucket Chorus/Vibrato
The Strymon Ola dBucket chrous/vibrato pedal is celebrated for its high-fidelity chorus effects that can range from intimate, gentle waves to vast, swirling oceans of sound. Its dBucket algorithm faithfully recreates the warmth and idiosyncrasies of classic bucket brigade devices. The Ola also offers a variety of modes, including a multi-mode chorus, single-mode chorus and a vibrato effect, giving you the flexibility to craft your signature sound.
Ola’s dynamic Ramp mode setting allows for expressive pedal-controlled modulation. The pedal's extensive tweakability, including controls for speed, depth and mix, ensures you can find your sweet spot, whether you’re looking for a subtle thickening or a liquid, Leslie-like spin. Make waves with Ola, and be sure to check out our full assortment of Strymon effects pedals as well.
TC Electronic Afterglow Chorus
Why It's Cool: Immerse yourself in rich, dimensional chorus tones with exceptional sound quality and intuitive controls that let you fine-tune your sound effortlessly.
Things to Consider:
- All-analog circuitry for true vintage vibe
- Goes from subtle to over-the-top with the twist of a knob
- Intuitive user interface with clear, easy-to-use controls makes it simple to dial in your perfect sound
Pictured: TC Electronic Afterglow Chorus
The analog bucket brigade circuit of the TC Electronic Afterglow Chorus pedal delivers the type of rich, immersive sound that is far more than just a hit of nostalgia for sounds past. It's perfect for creating a sense of space and atmosphere in your music. The 'Depth' control allows you to adjust the level of depth in your sound, while the 'Width' feature enhances the range of the effect’s sweep. With that warm, analog vibe the Afterglow can enfold your ears in its embrace.
TC Electronic SCF Gold Stereo Chorus Flanger
Why It's Cool: Explore lush, expansive chorus and swirling flanger tones with exceptional sound quality and versatile controls that let you shape your sound with ease.
Things to Consider:
- Utilizes TC Electronic's analog SCF BBD circuit with more headroom and wider frequency response
- Stereo outputs allow for true stereo imaging when used with dual mono or stereo amps
- Intuitive user interface with clear, easy-to-use controls makes it simple to dial in your perfect sound
Pictured: TC Electronic SCF Gold Stereo Chorus Flanger
The original TC Electronic SCF stereo pedal was a true classic and the TC Electronic SCF Gold Stereo Chorus-Flanger takes that original BBD (bucket brigade device) circuit a couple of steps further. It’s a great choice when you need a wide range of modulation tones in a single pedal. Its unique combination of stereo chorus and flanger effects provides an unparalleled range of tonal possibilities, from subtle enhancements to dramatic transformations. With its robust build quality and intuitive interface, the SCF Gold is perfect for studio and live applications alike.
Universal Audio Astra Modulation Machine
Why It's Cool: Unlock a vast sonic palette of modulation effects, including lush chorus, swirling flanger, and tremolo, with unparalleled sound quality in a compact pedal.
Things to Consider:
- 16 distinct modulation algorithms offer immense tonal possibilities.
- Stereo inputs and outputs allow for true stereo imaging when used with dual mono or stereo amps
- Intuitive user interface with clear, easy-to-use controls makes it simple to dial in your perfect sound
Pictured: Universal Audio UAFX Astra Modulation Machine
Recreating the iconic, shimmering bucket brigade chorus of the 1970s, Universal Audio’s UAFX Astra Modulation Machine also provides classic flanger and tremolo sounds. If you’ve been looking for a way to expand your tonal palette, this one is a real game-changer. With its comprehensive suite of modulation effects, you'll be able to create sounds that you may have previously thought impossible. When you need the widest range of possible modulation effects in a single powerful pedal, the Astra is your rocket to the stars.
Walrus Audio Julia V2 Analog Chorus/Vibrato
Why It's Cool: Known for its exceptional versatility, this pedal combines chorus and vibrato effects with unique controls like lag, dry-chorus-vibrato blend and variable waveforms, enabling sublime sound sculpting.
Things to Consider:
- Standard-sized chorus/vibrato pedal with stereo in and out
- Offers D-C-V control, in addition to a wave shape switch
- Analog design for a rich, immersive sound experience
Pictured: Walrus Audio Julia V2 Analog Chorus/Vibrato
If you’re looking for a single pedal that can take you from surf rock vibrato to glassy new wave caverns, the Walrus Audio Julia Analog Chorus/Vibrato V2 has all that with a side of wow. With an LED that flashes in time with your rate setting, you have an immediate visual cue, and the Dry/Chorus/Vibrato control runs from pure signal to spooky western-tinged vibrato.
You remember that a chorus effect is a copy of your signal with a slight pitch shift and delay, right? The Lag control on the Julia adjusts the center delay time that your chorus LFO (low-frequency oscillation) moves around. That means it makes the chorus sound more intense as you dial it up. Combined with the D-C-V control and the ability to switch between sine and triangle waveforms, and you have one incredibly customizable effect.
The Julianna Stereo Analog Chorus is Julia’s big sister, with added features like tap tempo and a random LFO wave shape, modulation drift and stereo output for expansive, glimmering chorus goodness.
Warm Audio WA-C1 Stereo Chorus and Vibrato
Why It's Cool: Dive into rich, vintage-inspired chorus and vibrato tones that add depth and movement to your sound without breaking the bank.
Things to Consider:
- Two distinct modes (Chorus and Vibrato) offer added versatility
- True bypass switching preserves your tone when the effect is off
- Retro look improves your pedalboard's visual appeal
Pictured: Warm Audio WA-C1 Stereo Chorus and Vibrato
Designed to take your tone to the next level, Warm Audio’s WA-C1 Chorus-Vibrato-Stereo-Effects Pedal summons one of the most sought-after chorus sounds ever. Plus, its built-in vibrato effect allows you to add some extra textural nuance to your tone. Its stereo output enables an immersive soundstage that's perfect for creating a sense of width and depth. With its warm, analog-inspired tone, the WA-C1 is ideal for players who want to add a vintage vibe, a subtle enhancement or a dramatic effect to their sound.
In Closing
Each pedal is as unique as the player who uses it. All of the chorus stompboxes in our list have their own personal vibe and versatility. Just like with overdrive and distortion, there’s certainly no rule about limiting yourself to just one chorus pedal. Get down to your local Guitar Center and try out a few of these. You’ll be surprised just how many different sounds you can get, and how gorgeous they sound in person.
Don’t forget to check out our other handy pedal guides—especially on setting up your pedal signal chain and powering your pedalboard. And, if you have your heart set on a CE-1 or an original CE-2, we’re always adding to our collection of vintage gear. We also have an ever-changing inventory of used pedals, which can be a great place to find something you want to test, mod or stick right onto your pedalboard.