Electro-Harmonix Octavix
The Octavix by Electro-Harmonix is a fantastic tool for capturing that sought-after Hendrix tone. EHX did an excellent job recreating the fuzz sound of the late 60s, ensuring it works well with almost any guitar and amp combo.
Z.Vex Fuzz Factory Vexter
The Z.Vex Fuzz Factory is a legendary and instantly recognizable effect that will last you a lifetime. The fuzz tones it delivers are iconic, largely thanks to Matt Bellamy of Muse. The initial learning curve aside, it will be the most fun you will have with a fuzz pedal.
Bogner Ecstasy Blue Mini
The Bogner Ecstasy Blue Mini is an incredibly versatile pedal that offers a limitless range of tonal options, similar to the high-end amplifier it is based on. However, it can be a little difficult to dial in and operate due to the complex interactions between the various switches and controls.
MXR Duke of Tone
The MXR Duke of Tone can't quite replicate the unique sound of the King of Tone, which requires two pedals and additional features to achieve. As an alternative to the Prince of Tone, however, the Duke of Tone is a worthy contender, offering the same sound at a more accessible price point.
Ibanez TS808 Tube Screamer
The Ibanez TS808 is an essential pedal for any guitarist looking to add some classic overdrive tones to their sound. Its iconic sound and build quality make it a great investment, despite its few quirks.
Boss OD-3
The OD-3 might just be the most underrated Boss pedal. At £99, nothing really comes close to the sound quality and versatility of this overdrive. It is also very easy to dial in a great guitar tone with it, as all the knob ranges will sound great! Just keep in mind that it is a very transparent overdrive, so don’t expect it to transform your tone!
JHS 3 Series Screamer
The JHS Screamer is a very versatile and modern take on a Tube Screamer. It compares favourably to the more expensive Japan-made reissues by Ibanez, while offering enough extra features to consider it over the much cheaper Ibanez TS Mini.
Friedman Dirty Shirley
The Friedman Dirty Shirley is an extremely versatile pedal. Just like the amp of the same name, it will cover vintage Marshall and BE-100 distortion tones, as well as light gain scenarios. While primarily designed for hard rock and metal, it will do much more than that with unmatched clarity and response.
Friedman BE-OD
The BE-OD is an amazing pedal and will make almost any setup sound like a hot-rodded Marshall Plexi. It is expensive, but the cost is justified, considering you are getting pretty close to the signature BE sound with a lot less hassle.
Wampler Tumnus
For such a simple pedal, it has a very wide range of use cases. At £135, you really can’t go wrong with the Wampler Tumnus, especially when the original Klons go for over £5,000.
Behringer TO800
Behringer TO800 is fantastic value for money and should be in every guitar player's collection, in case you ever want that iconic sound.
Fulltone OCD
If you are looking for a “wall of sound” tone without cranking your tube amp into oblivion, the Fulltone OCD is what you want!
Boss SD-1W
The Boss SD1W stacks up well against similarly priced pedals. If you were not a fan of the original, it is unlikely you will enjoy the Waza Craft version. However, if you were already a fan, but just want a little bit more from your SD-1, the SD-1W is an excellent choice!