2025’s Top Pedals: A Nostalgic Journey Through Effects Sales
Reverb has unveiled its latest sales insights, highlighting the effects pedals-both classic and contemporary-that have captured the attention of musicians in 2025.
The online marketplace’s annual sales analysis has broadened its focus, revealing meaningful trends in the electric guitar and amplifier sectors. Now, it dives deeper into the world of pedals, showcasing which effects are truly dominating the market.
New Categories and Rankings
This year, the rankings have been categorized into distinct groups, featuring a dedicated list for the best-selling pedals introduced in 2025. Additionally, there are rankings for overall best-sellers, popular used pedals, and a leaderboard compiled from various manufacturers’ sales data.
It’s important to note that floor modelers are excluded from thes rankings, as their sales continue to overshadow conventional tube amplifiers, which are facing ongoing challenges in the market.
Leading Brands and Notable Mentions
In the realm of stompboxes, Boss has emerged as the top-selling pedal brand of the year, closely followed by Electro-Harmonix, MXR, and TC Electronic.
Noteworthy mentions include Xotic and Fender, who have made waves with a highly-rated booster and budget-pleasant alternatives to the established leaders. However, Marshall has notably missed the top 20, despite launching a new series of amp-in-a-box pedals earlier this year.
2025’s Best New Pedal
The standout new pedal of 2025 is the MXR Rockman X100. This innovative headphone amplifier, endorsed by guitar legends like Joe Satriani and Phil Collen, reimagines Tom Scholz’s iconic design in a compact stompbox format. its release underscores the enduring appeal of ’80s guitar tones, which have captivated players this year.
Top Overall Sales
In terms of overall pedal sales for 2025,the collaborative effort between EHX and JHS,the nano Lizard Queen Octave Fuzz,has taken the led. Following closely are TC Electronic’s polytune 3 Mini and the Boss GE-7 Equalizer-two essential yet understated pedals. Last year’s champion,the IK Multimedia TONEX One,has slipped to fourth place.
Signature Pedals and Second-Hand Sales
Among signature pedals, Joe Bonamassa’s Way Huge Deep State, a Klon-inspired creation, ranks as the best-selling model, coming in sixth. Jack White’s JHS x Third Man Hardware Troika delay and the Randy Rhoads-inspired MXR SE Distortion+ pedal also made impressive showings,landing in ninth and eighteenth places,respectively.
When it comes to the second-hand market, the Line 6 HX Stomp, which does not fall under the modeler category, has surged to the top. The MXR M169 Carbon Copy Analog Delay and Boss BD-2 Blues Driver also secured spots on the podium.
For a complete overview of the rankings, visit Reverb.
Step Back in Time: Reverb Reveals 2025’s Hottest Pedals, Where ’80s Tone Takes Center Stage!
The Resurgence of ’80s Tone in 2025
As we dive into 2025, the music world is witnessing a remarkable revival of ’80s tones, notably in the realm of guitar pedals. Reverb’s latest sales analytics reveal that musicians are increasingly gravitating towards effects that evoke the iconic sounds of this vibrant decade. From lush choruses to gritty distortions, the nostalgia for ’80s music is shaping the current landscape of guitar gear.
Top Pedals of 2025: A Closer Look
Reverb’s extensive report has categorized the best-selling pedals of 2025,showcasing both new releases and enduring favorites. Here’s a breakdown of the standout pedals that are making waves this year:
| Pedal Name |
Brand |
Type |
Notable Features |
| MXR Rockman X100 |
MXR |
Headphone Amp |
Iconic ’80s design, endorsed by Joe Satriani |
| EHX/JHS Nano Lizard Queen |
Electro-Harmonix/JHS |
Fuzz |
Collaborative design, versatile octave effects |
| Boss GE-7 Equalizer |
Boss |
Equalizer |
Seven-band EQ, essential for tone shaping |
| TC Electronic PolyTune 3 Mini |
TC Electronic |
Tuner |
Compact design, polyphonic tuning |
| Way Huge Deep State |
Way Huge |
Overdrive |
Klon-inspired, rich tonal options |
Why ’80s Tones Are Making a Comeback
The ’80s were a transformative era for music, characterized by innovative sounds and groundbreaking technology. Here are some reasons why this decade’s tones are resonating with today’s musicians:
- Nostalgia: Many guitarists grew up listening to ’80s rock and pop,creating a deep emotional connection to the sounds of that time.
- Versatility: The effects used in the ’80s, such as chorus, delay, and reverb, offer a wide range of tonal possibilities that can enhance any genre.
- Influence of Iconic Artists: Legendary guitarists like Eddie Van Halen and Joe Satriani have inspired countless players to seek out similar tones.
Practical Tips for Incorporating ’80s Tones into your Sound
Integrating ’80s tones into your music can be both fun and rewarding. Here are some practical tips to help you achieve that iconic sound:
- Experiment with Chorus Effects: A lush chorus pedal can add depth and richness to your tone, reminiscent of the ’80s sound.
- Utilize Delay: Long, cascading delays can create atmospheric soundscapes that were popular in ’80s tracks.
- Layer Your Sounds: don’t hesitate to stack multiple effects to create a fuller, more complex tone.
- Adjust Your EQ settings: Use an equalizer pedal to boost mid and high frequencies, which were prominent in ’80s music.
Case Studies: Artists Embracing ’80s Pedals in 2025
several contemporary artists are embracing ’80s pedals to craft their unique sounds. Here are a few notable examples:
1. Joe Satriani
As a pioneer of the ’80s guitar sound, satriani continues to use the MXR Rockman X100 in his live performances, showcasing its versatility and nostalgic appeal.
2. Jack White
Known for his eclectic style, White has incorporated vintage effects into his setup, including the JHS x Third Man Hardware Troika delay, to achieve a distinct sound that pays homage to the past.
3. The 1975
This band has made a name for itself by blending modern pop with ’80s influences, frequently enough utilizing classic pedals to create their signature sound.
First-Hand Experience: Musicians Share Their Thoughts
Many musicians have shared their experiences with ’80s pedals, highlighting their effectiveness in achieving the desired sound:
“Using the MXR Rockman X100 has fully transformed my tone. it captures that ’80s vibe perfectly!” – Alex, Guitarist
“The EHX Nano Lizard queen is a game-changer. it adds a unique character to my sound that I can’t get from modern pedals.” – Sarah, Indie Artist
Benefits of Using ’80s Pedals
Incorporating ’80s pedals into your rig can offer several advantages:
- Unique Sound: Stand out from the crowd with tones that are rich in character and history.
- Creative Inspiration: The distinct sounds can spark new ideas and creativity in your songwriting.
- Versatile Applications: Suitable for various genres, from rock to pop to experimental music.
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