8 Best FX Pedals for Synths in the ENTIRE INDUSTRY (2025)

FX pedals are some seriously powerful ways to take your synthesizer sounds (and skills) to the next level. 

They can completely transform dry, flat signals into dynamic, professional-grade audio and, with the right pedal you can unmatched texture and space to your tracks.

Plus, you can play around with different sound design techniques, create unique tones, and enhance the overall vibe of your music. 

As producers, knowing about the best FX pedals for synths can really change the game for you and bang out one-of-a-kind sounds.

That’s why we’re breaking down everything you need to know about the 8 best FX pedals for synths, like:

• How pedals actually work ✓
• Reverb for adding depth and space ✓
• Overdrive for warmth and grit ✓
• Analog hardware and digital delay effects ✓
• Stereo inputs and outputs for epic soundscapes ✓
• Tone controls for precise EQ shaping ✓
• Multi-effects pedals for versatility ✓
• Looping functions for layering tracks ✓
• Blend controls to balance dry and wet signals ✓
• True bypass for pristine original signal integrity ✓
• Much more about the best FX pedals for synths ✓

By knowing all about the best FX pedals for synths, you’ll be able to experiment all day with sound design and bring a killer edge to your tracks. 

Plus, you can add character, depth, and dynamics to your beats while making sure your sounds are professional and exciting, never basic.

This way, you can elevate your music like a true professional (and, bonus point, they’re super fun to use).

How Pedals Work: Breaking it Down

Before discussing the best FX pedals for synths, I figured it would only be right to break down exactly how pedals work so you can get a full picture.

Basically, pedals take your instrument’s signal and process it in some way to create an effect, which might involve:

• Altering the signal’s frequencies
• Modulating its tone
• Introducing elements like reverb, delay, or distortion

For synthesizers, pedals work by adding texture and depth to create an interesting sound that really stands out in a mix.

Most pedals have inputs for your instrument and outputs that send the processed signal to an amp, mixer, or interface. 

Some models include features like stereo outputs or advanced control options to tweak the effect, which most of the following best FX pedals for synths include.

For synth users like myself (and hopefully you), it’s key to choose pedals that handle line-level signals properly to ensure your output level doesn’t overwhelm the pedal.

One critical feature to look for is how pedals handle the dry signal and effect blend.

Many modern pedals allow you to control this balance 一 letting you retain your synth’s original sound while adding just the right amount of effect.

By using an FX send on your mixer or audio interface, you can easily use pedals with your setup to keep your synth chain clean and get super flexible with your effects.

Also, pedals aren’t just about sound design; they’re also about playing live. 

Just remember a great pedal should be intuitive, reliable, and inspire creativity. 

Whether it’s experimenting with modulation, layering delays, or dialing in the perfect reverb pedal, understanding how they work means you can use them like a boss.

So now let’s get to the fun part: the 8 best FX pedals for synths (and side note, we’re including one pro tip for each unique pedal).

The 8 Best FX Pedals for Synths

When it comes to enhancing your synthesizer sound, the right/best effects pedals can make all the difference. Whether you’re adding spacey textures, driving distortion, or laying down rhythmic echoes, the best FX pedals for synths are essential tools for producers and musicians. Below, we’ll breakdown the top FX pedals (personally tested and approved) 一 breaking down their features, functions, and unique abilities. So, let’s dive into the gear that will take your synth sounds to the next level, starting with one of my favorite multi-effects pedals ever.

#1. Line 6 HX Stomp (Multi-Effects Pedals/Processor)

The Line 6 HX Stomp is an absolute beast when it comes to versatility. 

This compact multi-effects processor offers over 300 of the best effects, amps, and cab models pulled straight from Line 6’s Helix series (which is pretty solid).

Whether you need delays, modulation, reverbs, or even amp simulation, this one pedal handles it all 一 it’s like having a full studio rig in one box. 

What’s awesome about the HX Stomp in my opinion is its ability to run up to six effects at the same exact time. 

It also includes stereo inputs and outputs for pristine signal quality, while the onboard global EQ lets you fine-tune your tone for any setting. 

It also features MIDI control, USB connectivity for your MIDI keyboards, and even doubles as an audio interface, so that’s cool as well.

This is perfect for recording synths straight into your DAW. 

One feature I absolutely love is the touch-sensitive footswitches with customizable LED rings… it gives you clear visual feedback on the active effects, which is great.

Plus, the HX Stomp’s built-in looper is a lifesaver for creating layered textures on the fly. 

And bonus, this pedal is small enough to fit onto any pedalboard without taking up too much space but powerful enough to replace multiple pedals. 

PRO TIP

Use its envelope follower setting to create expressive dynamics when paired with a synth lead or sick bassline. 

You can modulate parameters like filter cutoff, amplitude, or resonance based on the input signal’s volume. 

This works perfectly with synth leads for punchy accents or with basslines to add rhythmic movement and variation. 

Whether you’re using mono or stereo signals, this is one of the best multi-effects pedals in the industry, from the OG tape age to today.

#2. Boss BD-2 Blues Driver (Overdrive)

The Boss BD-2 Blues Driver is one of the most popular overdrive pedals for good reason: it’s simple, effective, and sounds great. 

It adds a warm, tube-like overdrive that’s perfect for giving your synthesizers that extra edge needed to dominate the competition. 

It’s perfect for adding some extra bite to your leads or a gritty, vintage vibe to your basslines 一 dealer’s choice.

If we’re talking about knobs, it has 3 straightforward knobs:

• Tone
• Level
• Gain

The Tone control shapes the high-end frequencies, while the Gain knob adjusts the overdrive intensity, so you can tweak it however you’d like.

Its dynamic response is incredibly sensitive, which is also great.

When you play harder, you’ll get a more aggressive overdrive, and if you want some softer, smoother tones simply dial it back a little bit.

The BD-2 is built like a tank and handles line-level signals from synthesizers without any problems, so you’re never sacrificing sound quality. 

Plus, its compact size makes it easy to integrate into your setup, and it doesn’t add any unnecessary noise to your chain. 

Bottom line, it’s one of the very best FX plugins for synths in the game, there’s no denying that.

For synth producers like you, this pedal really shines when paired with a clean compressor like the Keeley Compressor Plus to tighten up the dynamics. 

PRO TIP

Set the Gain at 9 o’clock and the Tone slightly above noon for a subtle but effective overdrive that sits beautifully in your mix.

This combination brings out harmonic richness in synth leads without overwhelming the mix, which nobody has time for. 

And, I=if you’re working with a bassline, slightly lower the Gain and push the Tone higher to let the low-end frequencies breathe while still adding texture and warmth.

#3. MXR M169 Carbon Copy Analog Delay (Analog Delay)

The MXR Carbon Copy Analog Delay is a must-have if you’re into lush, vintage-style delays that are super on point.

This pedal delivers up to 600ms of delay time with a warm, organic character thanks to its bucket-brigade circuitry. 

Unlike sterile digital delays, this pedal adds a bit of personality to your sound. 

One of its standout features is the Mod switch which introduces subtle pitch modulation to the delay repeats to give it an epic tape-like vibe. 

Three simple knobs (Delay, Mix, and Regen) make it incredibly easy to dial in your perfect sound, so don’t even worry about that. 

The true bypass design ensures your dry signal stays intact when the pedal is off, and the Carbon Copy’s build quality is solid, and it’s road-ready for gigs and sessions.

It also handles synthesizers beautifully 一 adding depth and movement to pads, leads, or even an instrument like drum machines. 

If you pair it with a reverb pedal like the Strymon BigSky, get ready for some huge, cinematic soundscapes that you’ll absolutely love.

This one is super useful when it comes to creating rhythmic echoes that add dimension to your tracks, so it’s definitely one of the best FX pedals for synths, for sure.

PRO TIP

Use the Mod feature sparingly for synth basslines to create an interesting sound without overpowering the low end. 

Set the Mod depth low and adjust the Mix knob to about 30% for subtle movement that hypes up the bassline rather than dominating it.

It also sounds fine in both mono and stereo setups, which is always a plus when it comes to the best FX pedals for synths.

#4. Strymon BigSky Reverb (Reverb Pedal)

If there’s one reverb pedal that’s earned its place as a staple for synth players, it’s the Strymon BigSky. 

It features 12 unique reverb algorithms, from traditional plates and springs to experimental options like Shimmer and Cloud, which I personally love.

It’s perfect for everything from subtle ambience to massive, otherworldly soundscapes. 

What makes the BigSky really stand out is its high-resolution stereo inputs and outputs so every detail of your synth’s sound is preserved. 

It also includes 300 user presets, so it’s super easy to switch between settings for live performances or recording sessions. 

Key parameters like Pre-Delay, Decay, and Modulation Depth are fully adjustable 一 giving you total control over the reverb tail. 

Also, the Infinite Sustain feature is a game-changer for creating evolving textures, so you’ll definitely want to play around with that.

I’ve used it to hold a pad chord indefinitely while layering other sounds on top. 

PRO TIP

Experiment with the Shimmer mode for a more ethereal effect that adds an octave-up shimmer to the reverb tail. 

Adjust the Mix knob to blend it subtly with your dry signal for ambient textures or crank it up for a more pronounced, otherworldly vibe. 

Pair it with longer Decay times (8-12 seconds) and slight Modulation to add movement 一 making your synth leads or pads feel alive. 

For a unique twist, run the shimmer through distortion or delay pedals to knock out cascading harmonic layers that are truly one of a kind.

You can certainly use some of the other best FX pedals for synths for this purpose.

It’s a killer trick for synth leads, trust me, and you can even bang out sounds nobody has ever heard before… Imagine the possibilities. 

#5. Boss DS-1 Distortion (One of the Best Distortion Pedals)

The Boss DS-1 Distortion is one of the best, most classic distortion pedals of all time because it’s affordable and insanely durable.

Plus, versatile enough to work with pretty much anything (including synthesizers, of course).

This distortion pedal can go from a subtle, crunchy boost to full-on aggressive distortion, which makes it perfect for everything from leads to basslines. 

It features three knobs: Tone, Level, and Distortion…

The Tone control lets you shape the high and low frequencies, while the Distortion knob dials in the amount of saturation. 

Despite its simplicity, the DS-1 excels at adding character without completely destroying the original sound of your synth. 

One of my favorite ways to use the DS-1 is on monophonic synth leads. 

Simply crank the Distortion/fuzz to about 3 o’clock and keep the Tone slightly rolled off for a thick, creamy sound that cuts through the mix. 

PRO TIP 

Use this pedal with a synth arpeggiator to create gritty, rhythmic textures that sound amazing with a delay pedal like the Carbon Copy. 

For a balanced sound, set the tone knob around 2 o’clock to preserve clarity while adding edge and flair.

Keep the distortion knob at about 11 o’clock for subtle grit or push it to 3 o’clock for aggressive intensity (feel free to get crazy).

Pair it with the Carbon Copy delay, setting the delay time around 350ms and the feedback at 50% to create sick, evolving echoes that complement the arpeggios. 

This combo produces intricate, layered soundscapes 一 making the DS-1 one of the best FX pedals for synths and a top-tier distortion pedal, hands down.

#6. EarthQuaker Devices Plumes Small Signal Shredder (Overdrive)

The EarthQuaker Devices Plumes is hands down one of the most flexible overdrive pedals on the market today, no two ways about it.

What makes this pedal stand out is its redesigned JFET-based circuitry, which improves clarity and reduces noise like nothing else.

This pedal is perfect for synthesizers because it’s not too aggressive, and it doesn’t squash your sound; instead, it adds just the right amount of grit and texture.

It comes with three clipping modes:

• Mode 1 一 Symmetrical LED clipping for a crunchy and aggressive tone.
• Mode 2 一 A clean boost mode with increased headroom and dynamic response.
• Mode 3 一 Asymmetrical silicon diode clipping, providing a softer and more nuanced overdrive.

The controls include Level, which adjusts the output volume, and Gain which dials in the overdrive amount.

As well as Tone, which lets you shape the high frequencies for a brighter or darker sound, so you can really cover all bases.

I mean, this overdrive pedal is truly perfect for everything from subtle boosts to saturated overdrive (it’s incredibly versatile for all different synth setups). 

Personally, I’ve found that this pedal shines when used to add depth to arpeggiated synth lines or warm up a sterile-sounding pad. 

If we’re talking about the best FX pedals for synths, you certainly can’t leave the Shredder out of the conversation.

PRO TIP

Use Mode 2 as a clean boost for adding extra presence to your lead sounds and FX send while maintaining their original sound and dynamics.

To do so, set the gain knob to a low level (around 9 o’clock) and the level knob to a higher setting (around 2-3 o’clock) to push your signal without adding distortion. 

This setup enhances the presence of your lead sounds or FX sends by emphasizing upper mids and highs so they cut through the mix. 

Just make sure to keep the tone knob centered or slightly rolled back to retain the natural character of your sound while avoiding harshness. 

Pair this with a slightly compressed signal chain to maintain dynamics and balance.

#7. Keeley Compressor Plus (Compressor)

The Keeley Compressor Plus is a must-have for any producer looking to control dynamics and add sustain to their synth sounds. 

It’s based on a studio-grade compression circuit, and it’s freakin’ packed with features that give you full control over your signal.

Here’s a breakdown of the controls:

• Sustain 一 Adjusts how long the compressed signal holds its volume, great for adding life to pads or leads.
• Level 一 Controls the output volume, ensuring you don’t lose any gain when the compression is applied.
• Blend 一 Allows you to mix your dry signal with the compressed signal, perfect for maintaining your synth’s natural attack.
• Tone 一 Shapes the high frequencies of the compressed signal, so you can make your sound brighter or darker.

It also features a built-in preamp, which improves the output level and makes your synthesizers much punchier, so that’s awesome as well.

Whether you’re using this for subtle compression on a synth pad or heavier dynamics control on a bassline, it always delivers. 

I’ve personally used the Keeley Compressor Plus to even out the dynamics of polyphonic synth patches, and the results are always smooth/professional. 

PRO TIP

To achieve a balanced sound while retaining the synth’s natural character, set the Blend knob to precisely 50% for an even mix of compressed and uncompressed signals.

This will give you a dynamic but controlled tone to play around with. 

Start with the Tone knob at noon (12 o’clock) as a neutral position, then fine-tune by turning it clockwise for brighter highs or counterclockwise for warmer, darker tones.

It all depends on your mix’s needs, naturally.

Then, adjust the Sustain control to 9 o’clock for subtle compression or up to 1 o’clock for more pronounced dynamic control without crushing the natural harmonics. 

Keep the Level knob at unity gain to match the output volume so no perceived volume loss or gain is introduced.

#8. Boss DD-3 Digital Delay (Digital Delay)

To round things out we have The Boss DD-3 Digital Delay, which has been an OG in the world of best effects pedals for decades, and for good reason. 

This pedal delivers crystal-clear digital repeats, so it’s ideal for synthesizers where you want the delay to stand out without muddying the mix.

It offers three delay time modes: 

• 50ms
• 200ms
• 800ms

Plus, a Hold function that allows for infinite repeats, which is actually super cool.

The simple controls include Delay Time, Feedback, and Effect Level, so it’s easy to dial in exactly what you need without getting lost in infuriating menus.

The DD-3 is built with Boss’s legendary durability, meaning it can take a beating in live setups (which, let’s be honest, is needed).

It’s also designed to handle line-level signals, so you’ll get clean, noise-free repeats with no fuzz, even when running it with a synth or mixer (which sounds great).

In my experience, this pedal is perfect for adding rhythmic echoes to sequenced synth lines or creating spacious soundscapes with pads.

PRO TIP

To create a subtle space and echo effect, set the Mode switch to 800ms and adjust the Feedback knob to around 9 o’clock for minimal repeats that don’t muddy the mix. 

Increase the Effect Level knob to about 2 o’clock so the echo is present enough to add depth while keeping the dry signal prominent. 

Then, fine-tune the Delay Time knob between 600ms and 750ms for a slightly tighter or more spacious feel 一 depending on the tempo of your track. 

This setting works well to enhance clean tones or synth pads for adding.

Even though it’s last on the list, don’t look past it because it’s certainly one of the best FX pedals for synths ever, period.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it: the absolute best FX pedals for synths in the game right now. 

They’re all designed to enhance your sound, add depth to your mix, and inspire endless creativity even when you’re seriously lacking it.

Whether you’re looking for subtle textures or bold, transformative effects, these best FX pedals for synths have you covered at every turn.

Plus, with the pro tips provided, you should have no problem dialing in the perfect tone to elevate your tracks and dominate the competition.

If you use them correctly, they can help you create dynamic, professional-quality sounds that stand out in any mix every single time.

And, as a special bonus, you’ve got to check out the most legendary Free Sample Packs in the entire industry. 

If you want the most mind-blowing samples (anything you can think of), you’ve got to check them out. 

Each and every unique sample was created by the world’s best producers, so you’re getting top quality (and yes, they’re all 100% royalty-free).

From hard-hitting basslines to genre-specific melody loops, you’ll have access to anything you could think of. 

And, with your new knowledge of the best FX pedals for synths, you can even blend effects with these samples or knock out entirely new soundscapes all together.

Needless to say, your tracks will turn heads.

Bottom line, with the best FX pedals for synths in your arsenal and a commitment to experimentation, there’s no limit to what you can create. 

Just remember to keep pushing your boundaries, stay inspired, think outside the box and never let anyone tell you you can’t achieve greatness.

Until next time…