Last Updated on March 30, 2024 by Justin
Since I became a lead guitarist in my band a few years ago, the need for a boost pedal for my solos became more and more of a necessity as the gigs went by. After adding a boost pedal to my pedal board, it has quickly become the most used pedal in my collection. I’ll explain why…
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| TC Spark Mini | MXR Micro Amp | Rowin Booster | Xotic EP Booster | JHS Prestige |
| Top Choice | Most Popular | Budget Boost | Boutique Boost | Most Versatile |
Sometimes you just need to be louder for certain parts without affecting the tone or the gain of your guitar sound. And sometimes you need to boost the signal of your overdrive pedal or distortion pedal. Whatever your boosting requirements, I’ll go through some of the uses of the boost pedal as well as discuss and review the best guitar boost pedal for solos.
Contents
Top 5 Guitar Boost Pedals For Solos
The following are my top boost pedals based on my personal experience. I have tried to cover a wide range of boost pedals to make sure I keep everyone’s needs covered. You’ll be sure to find a suitable pedal for you below.
1) TC Electronics Mini Spark
TC Electronic Spark Mini Booster
I can confidently say that the TC Spark Mini Booster is the best boost pedal for guitar solos out there. After trying just about every boost there is, I somehow keep going back to the Spark Mini. This is a small yet powerful boost pedal. That allows you to increase your guitar’s volume by up to 20 decibels. But most importantly, it allows you to increase your volume without altering your tone in any way. And, when it comes to solos, that is all I could ask for. Many pedals have certain tonal “characteristics” which land up affecting your overall tone. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but for solos, this is something I look to avoid. Hence, why the Spark Mini is my go-to.
The thing I love most about the Spark Mini Booster is its simplicity. It is incredibly easy to use and does exactly what it’s supposed to do. i.e. Boost your signal! Furthermore, I seriously love its compact size. It takes up barely any space on my pedalboard. Thus, leaving room for other essential pedals. When it comes to The build quality, you can expect extremely high standards as anyone would expect from a company such as TC Electronic.
The Spark Mini Booster features PrimeTime switching. Which is a game-changer for guitarists. This innovative feature instantly detects whether you want the pedal to be on all the time or only when you hold down the footswitch. This makes it ideal for both “always-on” situations and emphasizing passages in your playing. In fact, this is a feature that can be found in a lot of TC’s pedal lineups. For example, I reviewed the TC HOF mini in my list of best cheap reverb pedals which also comes with a PrimeTime switch.
Something I learned way later than I should’ve was to use a boost pedal through the Effect Loop of my guitar amp. This provides a signal boost without pushing the front of your guitar amp. However, for the times you want to get a dirtier sound, you can definitely push the front of your amplifier with it. And, it does a killer job in both scenarios. The pedal is a true bypass. So you don’t have to worry about any signal loss when it’s turned off. If you think about it, would be quite ironic if it were to be the case.
One of the best things about the Spark Mini Booster is its compact size. It takes up barely any space on my pedalboard, leaving room for other essential pedals. The build quality is solid, and the knob and switch are comfortable to use. This pedal also made it to my list of the best guitar pedals under $50 however, the price has increased ever so slightly in recent times.
2) MXR Micro Amp Boost
In the second place, I have the MXR micro amp pedal. This is an MXR classic and for good reason. It has been used by many guitar players over the years. Most famously, John Frusciante of the Red Hot Chili Peppers who still uses it today.
At first glance, it might look very similar to the Spark Mini in the first place. And while both are 1-knob boost pedals, they both are different. Instead of boosting the volume, this pedal boosts the gain. In my opinion, this pedal boosts the signal more so than it adds any extra gain.
the Micro Amp is not a transparent boost like the TC Spark Mini. As it will add some ‘color’ to your signal. This is not a bad thing, it just depends on what your needs are.
For example, I like to use the Micro amp after my fuzz pedal as it adds more gain and bumps the signal of the fuzz whilst doing so. In this context, the pedal does an incredible job. This is one of those reliable and classic boost pedals that will definitely help boost your guitar solos. Pedal companies such as Joyo, as well as Mooer and many others, make fantastic clones of this pedal.
3) Rowin Boost Pedal
Rowin’s boost is one of the cheapest pedals on the market, but do not let that put you off! For its price, this boost pedal offers versatility which some expensive pedals cannot compete with.
This Rowin boost is definitely best used to boost distortion and/or overdrive and change the characteristics of your tone. It offers three separate EQs bass, volume, treble, and gain.
Depending on your needs, the pedal provides both a gain boost. As well as a 20dB+ clean volume boost. Thus, making it an excellent option for those looking for a transparent tone but with the option of adding some gain too.
One of the best features of this pedal is that is compact and easy to use. Also, it is made of high-quality materials ensuring it will be able to take a beating as pedals should.
4) Xotic EP Booster
Although this is a boutique guitar pedal, it has quickly gained popularity and a reputation as being one of the most transparent boosts for solos. It has a simple singular knob that either adds or takes away 20 decibels of gain.
However, don’t let the look of simplicity fool you as it also has a noticeable FET preamp inside. Furthermore, there are switches inside the pedal that can add a bass boost or a bright boost depending on what you set it. It is a really versatile booster pedal for its size.
5) JHS Prestige
JHS Prestige Boost Buffer and Preamp
JHS is a very well-known and respected entity in the effects pedal world. Josh is the owner and not only does he make incredible guitar pedals but he also has the world’s most incredible collection of pedals that make crypto look like a joke of an investment compared to his insanely rare and expensive pedal collection.
But, let’s talk about his JHS Prestige Boost pedal now. This is an awesome mini-sized pedal. It only has one knob. And it is a pretty easy pedal to use. But, don’t let that lead you into thinking that it isn’t versatile. Because for its size, is possibly one of the more versatile pedals on this list.
The Prestige is essentially a 3-in-1 pedal. It can be used as a buffer, enhancer, or preamp.
In terms of the buffer/enhancer feature. This helps keep your signal as it should be especially when you’re using long cables on stage. Because this can lead to some signal loss. So you can utilize the prestige to avoid this signal loss.
However, when you turn the volume knob up past 25%, the Prestige becomes a volume boost. And this will give your solos a fantastic push. Well, it certainly does for me! It can also saturate another overdrive, by stacking, for a more substantial and overdriven tone.
Finally, when you push the knob past 75%, you’ll get that meaty, natural breakup sound that I really love.
And lastly, true bypass switching ensures that your signal remains transparent. And, maintains its clarity even when the pedal is off. The build quality is exceptional, as expected from JHS Pedals. Its simple design is perfect for those who prefer a less-is-more approach to their pedalboard.
6) MXR/Bob Bradshaw Line Drive
MXR Custom Audio Electronic Boost/Line Driver
Dunlop’s Boost/Line Driver pedal is a great pedal. It uses a combination of Bob Bradshaw’s legendary design and MXR’s decades of expertise in analog pedal technology.
Bradshaw’s Custom Audio Electronics has been making limited quantities of pedals for select clientele since 1980. These include some of the world’s top guitar players such as Slash. And now, his pedals are available to the masses. All thanks to MXR’s partnership with Bob Bradshaw.
When it comes to dynamics, this is probably one of the best there is. What I mean by this is that this pedal is responsive to picking dynamics. So the harder you hit the strings, the louder the signal. Furthermore, this pedal also cleans up really nicely when you roll back your guitar volume. It manages to do this all without thinning your tone. And it is because of this that I adore this pedal. Often, boost pedals can deliver a thin tone when rolling back your volume. But the Line Driver maintains it’s “power” even when it comes to lower volumes.
In terms of tone and sound, this boost pedal is perfect for those looking to boost their tone/signal without sacrificing clarity.
Lastly, with MXR’s pedigree in analog pedal technology, you know you’re getting a reliable and high-quality pedal.
7) MXR Boost
MXR Mini Booster (Echoplex & Micro Amp In 1)
Here is yet another boost pedal made by MXR. I guess you could say they know a thing or two about boosting a signal. But all jokes aside, this pedal is amazing. It is definitely the most recent addition to this list. But it is becoming a firm favorite among myself and bandmates alike.
There are a few things that make the MXR boost unique yet great at the same time. First, this tiny enclosure is essentially like having a 2-in-1. This pedal combines MXR’s legendary Micro Amp (which I have already discussed above) with another legendary pedal the Echoplex preamp. The volume control knob allows you to add up to 25dB of signal boost. Whilst the “Tone” knob controls how much gain/grit you get.
This results in a uniquely sounding boost pedal that definitely pushes your tone above the rest of the mix. If you’re looking for a mid-boost then I wouldn’t recommend this pedal as there are others that will deliver that. However, this is still an incredible pedal that still gives you plenty of tonal opportunities.
8) Boss GE-7 – Using An EQ Pedal As A Boost
Now I know what you might be thinking. Why is there an Eq pedal in the list of boost pedals? Well, there are many answers to this. And, to be honest, I too questioned this when I first heard it. However, after trying it, I can say with 100% certainty that using an EQ pedal to boost your solos is one of the most effective solutions possible. Not to mention, the Boss GE-7 provides so many tone-shaping options, that you can get endless tones out of this pedal.
EQ pedals are made to let you change the frequency response of your sound. Thus, allowing you to cut or boost certain frequencies to shape your desired tone. When using these as a boost, EQ pedals can be used to boost certain frequency ranges. For example, when it comes to guitar solos, a mid-boost or ‘mid bump’ is often all that is needed to cut through the mix. This can easily be achieved with the GE-7. I simply adjust the midrange frequencies somewhere between 800 Hz to 1.5 kHz.
If you don’t want a mid-boost, you can keep the frequencies flat. But you can adjust the “level” which essentially increases the decibels. Which functions exactly the same as a clean boost.
9) Friedman Buxom
Now introducing the most expensive boost pedal on this list. But let me put your mind at ease. This is worth every single due to the sound, versatility, and just overall quality of the pedal. Let me explain..
The Friedman Buxom is honestly a powerhouse of a pedal. It offers tonal solutions, unlike any other boost pedal that I have ever tried. I’m in no way suggesting that every guitarist should fork out the money for this pedal. Because truthfully, some cheaper models on this list can get the job done. But, none offer the versatility and quality that the Buxom does.
What you can expect in terms of sound is a clean, pure signal that allows you to get the most out of your tone. With the boost control, you can increase volume. Thus, allowing you to push the front end of your amp. In order to achieve a thick harmonic overdrive. Or a transparent clean boost next to none. Furthermore, the onboard EQ Bypass switch allows for complete transparency and muscle to be added to your guitar without ever changing its fundamental character.
When it comes to EQ and tone control knobs, the Buxom definitely wins outright. It offers an active 3-band EQ with boost bass and mid controls. But what makes this pedal to a new level is that it also has a boost/cut treble control. The tight control tames your amp’s low end. and allows you to fine-tune your electric guitar’s voice.
Another feature setting this pedal apart is that it was designed with tons of headroom available. Which allows you to stand out through a mix or allows you to push your tube amp into overdrive. With plenty of headroom for getting above a mix or driving the front end of an amp.
10) Mosky Golden Horse
Moskly Golden Horse (Klon Clone)
You’ve probably heard about the insanely expensive, unattainable, and legendary pedal called “Klon Centaur”. You could probably buy a car with the price of an original Klon. However, luckily with the pedal market as it is, we’re able to get our hands on some really great clones of the Klon.
Now, the Klon is an overdrive pedal at heart. However, many guitar players use the Klon as a boost. In my opinion, the Klon is often overlooked for its amazing overdrive sound. And for some reason, guitar players still love using them as a boost.
And if you’re wondering, an overdrive pedal can definitely be used as a boost. But It likely won’t be too transparent and is bound to add some color to your sound. But, in the best way possible.
Using the Klon as a boost pedal is very simple. In order to do this, I recommend setting the gain control knob low. Somewhere between 0-3. Next, turn up the volume to increase the level of the guitar signal. This will give your guitar a significant boost in volume without adding too much color or overdrive. Doing this will result in a clear and powerful signal. That will help any guitar cut through the mix.
In my opinion, the Mosky Golden Horse is not only the cheapest but one of the better Klon Centaur clones on the market.
What Is A Boost Pedal?
The boost pedal is simply an effects box that allows your guitar to be heard, to stand out, and cut through the mix by turning it on. Boost pedals can also help enhance certain frequencies or to bump up particular eq settings.
In my opinion, boost pedals are generally not meant to color or change your overall guitar tone as overdrive or distortion pedals do. Instead, they’re used so that you can stand out for certain parts when you need to.
What Is Being Boosted?
Depending on what your needs are and which boost pedal you decided to choose, it will ultimately help determine what you will be using the pedal for. Boost pedals can boost different things some do one thing, some do a combination and others do all of them. What are these “things” that I’m talking about? Well, boost pedals can be used to make your solos louder by boosting one or more of the following:
- Volume (dB)
- Gain
- Bass
- Middle
- Treble
As I mentioned, not all of the pedals available can boost all of those above, so you’ll need to decide which of those is most important for your boosting needs. The volume function of a boost pedal will simply increase (or decrease) the decibel level of your overall sound. The gain boost adds more gain to your signal, which does not make your sound louder but rather adds more distortion.
A bass boost will fatten up your tone by boosting the bass frequencies. My personal favorite is the mid-boost which is perfect for solos. Boosting the mids gives a false sense of loudness yet allows your tone to cut through the mix.
I must include by saying that by adding more middle, you are in essence affecting your overall tone but it’s not always a bad thing for solos. Lastly, the treble boost will, of course, boost your treble frequencies which were a popular thing to do for guitarists in the 60s and 70s.
What To Look For In A Boost Pedal?
When looking for a boost pedal there are certain elements you should be on the lookout for. Firstly, one super important feature to consider is having gain control. A gain control knob allows you to adjust the amount of signal boost. In other words, how intense the signal is before it reaches your preamp.
Secondly, another feature to consider includes EQ controls that allow for the shaping of frequencies. I have already mentioned at the start of the article that you will need to consider which frequencies you wish to boost.
This will determine which EQ controls are important for you. For example, if you want a solo to stand out, you’ll want a boost pedal that allows you to control the mids. If you want a boost to fatten up your sound, then you will want a bass control knob. For some guitarists, having multiple EQ control knobs is important. Again, it depends on what you want to achieve.
Where Should A Boost Pedal Go In A Signal Chain
When using a boost pedal for a solo it is important to consider how it fits into your pedal signal chain. Many guitarists place their boost pedal at the beginning of their signal chains. Usually before any distortion or overdrive pedals. This allows the clean boost pedal to increase the volume of your guitar’s signal. Which can then be shaped by other pedals distortion pedals or overdrive pedals further down the chain.
What If I Want A Volume Boost?
Most boost pedals are able to increase the overall volume of your guitar’s signal. Without adding any distortion or overdrive. This is especially useful for clean parts, breaking up your tube amp into overdrive, and increasing your overall volume in a mix.
What Is The Difference Between a Boost and Overdrive / Distortion Pedals?
Boost pedals are different to overdrive and distortion pedals. While they sometimes cross over, there are some key differences. A distortion pedal will add clipping to your signal. Thus, creating a distorted sound. An overdrive pedal on the other hand, is similar to a distortion pedal. But typically produces a softer, more natural-sounding distortion.
When using a boost pedal, it’s important to use it in moderation to avoid overwhelming the audience or creating an overly harsh sound. Many guitarists use a boost pedal as a way to make their solos stand out, rather than as a constant part of their sound.
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Hey, fellow guitar mate! I’m Justin, I have been a professional guitarist since 2012. I have traveled the world playing on different stages alongside some of the best indie bands, at some of the biggest music festivals in the world. As a result, I’ve played lots of different guitar gear. Instead of keeping that knowledge to myself, I have set up this site to share my honest reviews of various guitar gear. But most notably, my love for guitar picks.