Phaser iconBest Phaser Pedals (2026)

Sweeping, jet-like modulation effect. We compared 3 phaser pedals and ranked them by rating, real-world playability, build quality, and value. Here are the ones worth your money in 2026.

Top pick: MXR Phase 90 · 3 options compared · $79–$132

🏆 Best Phaser 2026
MXR Phase 90

MXR

$89

★★★★☆ 4.7

The MXR Phase 90 is the phaser that defined the effect. One knob controls the speed, and the lush, swirling tone adds movement to clean and dirty tones alike. Used by Van Halen and countless others.

Pros

  • + Classic phaser tone
  • + Simple one-knob design
  • + Works on clean and dirty

Cons

  • − No depth control
  • − Can be too intense for some
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Runner-Up
Electro-Harmonix Small Stone

Electro-Harmonix

$79

★★★★☆ 4.5

The Small Stone is a classic analog phaser with a rich, swirling tone that has appeared on countless records since the 1970s. Its simple Rate knob and Color switch make it easy to dial in from subtle to dramatic phase.

Pros

  • + Classic analog phase tone
  • + Simple one-knob operation
  • + Color switch for extra depth

Cons

  • − Larger enclosure than competitors
  • − No depth control
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$132

★★★★☆ 4.4

The Boss PH-3 Phase Shifter packs seven phase modes — classic 4, 8, 10, and 12-stage sweeps plus Rise, Fall, and Step — along with tap tempo and expression control. One of the most versatile phasers you can buy at the price.

Pros

  • + Seven phase modes
  • + Tap tempo and expression-pedal control
  • + Rise/Fall/Step modes beyond classic phasing

Cons

  • − No wet/dry mix control
  • − Buffered bypass
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How to choose a phaser pedal

Phaser pedals split your signal and shift the phase of one copy, creating a sweeping, jet-like sound when recombined. From subtle movement to dramatic swooshes, phasers add motion and psychedelic character to your tone.

What to look for

  • ▸ Phase shifting
  • ▸ Sweeping motion
  • ▸ Psychedelic tones

Great for

RockFunkPsychedelic

Not sure where phaser sits in your rig? Our signal chain order guide shows the full layout, and the pedalboard planner lets you plan power and budget around it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best phaser pedal in 2026?

Our top pick is the MXR Phase 90 by MXR, which earns a 4.7/5 rating for its balance of tone, build quality, and value. It leads a field of 3 phaser pedals we compared for this guide.

How much does a good phaser pedal cost?

The phaser pedals in this guide range from $79 to $132. You do not need to spend the most to get a great pedal — the Electro-Harmonix Small Stone comes in at $79 and still rates 4.5/5, making it the best value pick here.

Where does a phaser pedal go in the signal chain?

In the standard guitar signal chain, phaser sits around position 8. Phaser pedals split your signal and shift the phase of one copy, creating a sweeping, jet-like sound when recombined. From subtle movement to dramatic swooshes, phasers add motion and psychedelic character to your tone. See our pedal order guide for the full layout and the reasoning behind it.

What is a phaser pedal used for?

Phaser pedals split your signal and shift the phase of one copy, creating a sweeping, jet-like sound when recombined. From subtle movement to dramatic swooshes, phasers add motion and psychedelic character to your tone. It is especially popular for Rock, Funk, Psychedelic styles.

See all phaser pedals & related guides

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