Best Guitar Signal Path & Pedal Tuners of 2025

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Guitar signal path and pedal tuners are essential tools for any serious guitar player. The signal path refers to the route that the sound of the guitar takes from the instrument to the amplifier. A well-designed signal path can enhance the tone and clarity of the guitar sound. Pedal tuners are used to ensure that the guitar is in tune, which is crucial for a good performance. They can also be used to mute the signal when tuning, so that the audience doesn't hear the tuning process. Both of these tools are important for any guitarist who wants to achieve the best possible sound.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner Pedal Cover #TOP 1
Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner Pedal
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Walrus Audio Strobe Tuner Pedal Cover #TOP 2
Walrus Audio Strobe Tuner Pedal
ftb score rating icon 9.8
KLIQ TinyTune Tuner Pedal for Guitar and Bass Cover #TOP 3
KLIQ TinyTune Tuner Pedal for Guitar and Bass
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Guitar Signal Path & Pedal Tuners

#TOP 1

Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner Pedal

White
(TU-3)
Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner Pedal Cover
Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner Pedal with Bypass

The Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner Pedal with Bypass is a versatile pedal that can tune both guitar and bass. It features a 21-segment LED meter with a high-brightness mode for outdoor visibility, making it easy for you to tune your instrument in any environment. Additionally, it has a drop tuning support feature, which is useful for players who use alternate tunings. The pedal also has a guitar/bass mode, making it easy to switch between the two instruments.

What We Like
Highly accurate tuning
Easy-to-read display
Multiple tuning modes
Sturdy and well-designed
Bypass output feature
What We Don't Like
Batteries may drain quickly
Minor tuning discrepancies
#TOP 2

Walrus Audio Strobe Tuner Pedal

900-1083
Multi
Walrus Audio Strobe Tuner Pedal Cover
Walrus Audio Guitar and Bass Strobe Tuner Guitar Pedal with Backlight LCD (900-1083)

The Walrus Strobe Tuner is a versatile guitar and bass tuner pedal that features both Needle and Strobe tuning modes, giving you the flexibility to choose how you want to tune your instrument. You can easily adjust the display orientation to fit your pedalboard setup, ensuring optimal visibility no matter where it's placed. With four bypass modes, including true bypass, you can maintain the integrity of your signal while tuning. Additionally, the pedal offers preset tuning options, capo settings, and a selectable reference pitch, making it user-friendly and adaptable to various playing styles.

What We Like
Extremely accurate tuning
Fast and responsive
Customizable display options
Great for various instruments
Stable tuning gauge
What We Don't Like
Occasional freezing issues
No power supply included
#TOP 3

KLIQ TinyTune Tuner Pedal for Guitar and Bass

TinyTune
TinyTune
KLIQ TinyTune Tuner Pedal for Guitar and Bass Cover
KLIQ TinyTune Tuner Pedal for Guitar and Bass - Mini - Chromatic - with Pitch Calibration and Flat Tuning (Power Supply Required)

The KLIQ TinyTune Tuner Pedal for Guitar and Bass is a mini chromatic tuner that is fast, accurate, easy to read, zero noise, and easy to use. It has a large and clear color display that is visible under any lighting condition. This pedal mutes the input signal when tuning and routes the signal directly to the output when not tuning, avoiding tone coloring, pop, and hum noises. It is built to last with rugged aluminum exterior and quality components.

What We Like
Compact size
Bright, clear display
Fast and accurate tuning
Sturdy construction
Excellent customer service
What We Don't Like
Visibility issues in bright sunlight
#TOP 4

Monoprice Chromatic Pedal Tuner

611220
Black
Monoprice Chromatic Pedal Tuner Cover
Monoprice Chromatic Pedal Tuner - Black, Normal & True-Bypass Outputs, Easy to Tune Your Bass & Guitars - Stage Right Series

Easily tune your guitar or bass on stage with this chromatic pedal tuner. It has heavy-duty metal construction, an activation button, and two 1/4" Ts outputs, normal and bypass. With a tuning range from A0 to C8, it is accurate to within 1 cent. The pedal can be powered with a 9V alkaline or heavy-duty battery or with a 9VDC power adapter (sold separately).

What We Like
Bright, easy-to-read display
Fast and responsive tuning
Durable metal construction
True bypass feature
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Battery compartment may complicate velcro use
Power supply plug location preference

Behringer TU300

TU300
Grey
Behringer TU300 Cover
Behringer TU300 Chromatic Ultimate Guitar/Bass Tuner, Grey

The Behringer TU300 Chromatic Tuner is the ultimate guitar/bass tuner that guarantees accurate tuning. With 7 different tuning modes including Regular, Flat, Double Flat, and Chromatic mode, you can easily tune your instrument to perfection. The precise 7-segment LED and 11-point Stream Meter ensure precise tuning every time. The adjustable reference tone allows you to customize the tuning from 438 Hz to 447 Hz. Additionally, the mute/bypass function allows for silent tuning. The Behringer TU300 Chromatic Tuner is a must-have for any guitarist or bassist, providing convenience and accuracy for all your tuning needs.

What We Like
Affordable price
Good tuning accuracy
Lightweight and portable
Durable plastic construction
What We Don't Like
Battery compartment access
Sluggish response
#TOP 6

LEKATO Chromatic Tuner Pedal

LEKATO Chromatic Tuner Pedal Cover
LEKATO Guitar Tuner Pedal with True Bypass, Chromatic Tuner Pedal for Electric Guitar and Bass, Color Display Tuning Pedal with Mute, Pitch and Flat Tuning

The LEKATO Tuner Pedal is a compact pedal designed for electric guitars and bass. Its high brightness color screen makes it easy to tune accurately in any lighting condition, whether on a dark stage or under the sun. You can adjust the pitch calibration from 430Hz to 450Hz and even tune by half flats for precise intonation. The true bypass mode ensures your guitar's original signal reaches the amplifier without any interference. Built with durable aluminum, this tuner pedal is reliable and shock-resistant, perfect for on-stage performances or rehearsals.

What We Like
Inexpensive and affordable
Bright and easy-to-read display
Silent operation with foot pedal
Accurate tuning
Compact and space-saving design
What We Don't Like
Slow frequency detection at times
Footswitch feels a bit flimsy
#TOP 7

BOSS TU-3W Waza Craft Tuner

TU-3W
Black
BOSS TU-3W Waza Craft Tuner Cover
Boss TU-3W Waza Craft Chromatic Tuner with Bypass

The BOSS Tuner Pedal offers essential features for musicians. With selectable buffered or true bypass, you can choose the best signal path for your setup, ensuring optimal sound quality. The 21-segment LED meter provides a clear visual indication of your tuning, making it easy to see when you're perfectly in tune. It also supports drop tuning, allowing you to easily switch between standard and alternate tunings. Whether you're playing guitar or bass, the dedicated modes help you achieve accurate tuning every time, enhancing your performance and confidence on stage.

What We Like
Fast and accurate tuning
High-quality build and design
Easy-to-read display
Versatile buffer options
Reliable brand reputation
What We Don't Like
Higher price point
#TOP 8

BOSS SL-2 Slicer Pedal

SL-2
Graffiti Yellow
BOSS SL-2 Slicer Pedal Cover
Boss SL-2 Slicer Audio Pattern Processor Pedal

The BOSS Slicer Pedal offers an innovative audio pattern processing experience with 11 unique patterns to explore. You can easily control the pedal with an expression input, allowing for dynamic sound manipulation as you play. With five different slicing variations, you can experiment with your sound and find the perfect fit for your music style. Additionally, MIDI control gives you the flexibility to integrate the pedal seamlessly into your setup. This pedal is designed to enhance your creativity and elevate your performances, making it a valuable tool for any guitarist.

What We Like
Versatile and fun effects
Compact size with stereo options
Great for rhythmic patterns
Compatible with MIDI and expression pedals
Unique sound transformation capabilities
What We Don't Like
Small adjustment knobs
Limited software functionality
#TOP 9

BOSS TU-3S Tuner

TU-3S
White
BOSS TU-3S Tuner Cover
Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

The BOSS TU-3S is a versatile chromatic tuner designed for both guitar and bass players. It features drop tuning support, allowing you to easily adjust to different tunings for your performance. The guitar/bass mode ensures accurate tuning for each instrument type, enhancing your playing experience. With the high brightness mode, you can clearly see the meter even in bright outdoor settings, making it ideal for gigs. Additionally, the Accu-Pitch Sign function gives you a visual cue when your instrument is perfectly tuned, providing peace of mind while you play.

What We Like
Compact size
High accuracy
Constantly active
Easy integration with effects
Fits on pedal board
What We Don't Like
Non-intuitive interface
Potential buzzing with daisy chaining
#TOP 10

Amazon Basics Mini Tuner Pedal

Amazon Basics
FTN2
Black
Amazon Basics Mini Tuner Pedal Cover
Amazon Basics Mini Tuner Pedal for Guitar and Bass, Black

The Amazon Basics Tuner Pedal is designed to make tuning your guitar or bass quick and hassle-free. With its advanced microprocessor and high-sensitivity sensor, you can expect fast and precise tuning in just seconds. The large display is easy to read, even in various lighting conditions, ensuring you won't struggle to see it during practice or performances. Built from durable aluminum alloy, this sleek black pedal is made to withstand regular use. Keep in mind that it requires a 9V DC regulated adapter, which is not included, but it does come with a user manual for straightforward setup.

What We Like
Great value for money
Versatile sound options
Well-chosen EQ settings
Compact design for pedalboard
Durable construction
What We Don't Like
Minor internal rattling sound
Limited advanced features
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Where do you put the tuner pedal in the signal chain?

The tuner pedal should be placed first in the signal chain, before any other effects. This allows for the cleanest signal to ensure the most accurate tuning pitch. Placing the tuner pedal after other effects can distort the signal and affect the accuracy of the tuning.

2. Can I put wah before tuner?

No, the only pedal that should go before the wah pedal is the tuner pedal. Tuner pedals require a clean signal for accurate tuning, so they should be placed at the very beginning of the signal chain. Other pedals like overdrive, compression, EQ, and reverb should come after the tuner pedal.

3. Are pedal tuners more precise?

Tuner accuracy is mostly a matter of display, so there is no significant difference in precision between pedal tuners and clip-on tuners. Both types can provide accurate tuning. However, pedal tuners with larger displays may allow for more precise interval display. Ultimately, the choice between pedal tuners and clip-on tuners comes down to personal preference.

4. What is the signal path for guitar effects?

The standard signal path for guitar effects starts with the tuner pedal, followed by the wah pedal and then the fuzz pedal. Next, dynamic effects like compression should be placed, followed by overdrive and distortion pedals. EQ and modulation pedals come next, and reverb and delay pedals should be placed at the end of the signal chain.

5. Where should wah pedal go in chain?

In general, the wah pedal should be placed at the very front of the signal chain. However, if you plan on using a pitch shifter or harmonizer effect in conjunction with the wah pedal, it is recommended to place those effects before the wah pedal.

6. Are pedal tuners better than clip on?

Pedal tuners are generally considered more accurate than clip-on tuners. However, high-quality clip-on tuners can also provide accurate tuning. The choice between pedal tuners and clip-on tuners depends on personal preference and specific needs.

Editor's Notes

During our guitar signal path & pedal tuner research, we found 24 guitar signal path & pedal tuner products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 50,409 customer reviews through our big data system to write the guitar signal path & pedal tuners list. We found that most customers choose guitar signal path & pedal tuners with an average price of $42.17.

The guitar signal path & pedal tuners are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of guitar signal path & pedal tuners, including BOSS, Walrus Audio, KLIQ Music Gear, Monoprice, Behringer. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 541 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Joseph Hubbard Avatar

Joseph Hubbard is a music producer and runs a musical instrument store in Chicago. Joseph is happy to help others choose the instrument that best suits their needs. He loves everything related to music and often publishes articles related to music on key websites.

Guitar Signal Path & Pedal Tuners Comparison Table

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Brand BOSS Walrus Audio KLIQ Music Gear Monoprice Behringer LEKATO BOSS BOSS BOSS Amazon Basics
Item Weight 390 Grams 8.7 ounces 4.4 ounces 10.2 ounces 11.68 ounces 0.634 ounces 460 Grams 1 pounds 0.89 Pounds 0.17 Kilograms
Style Standard - Compact Guitar Effect Device TU300 - Waza Expression Compact Tuner
Color White - TinyTune Black Grey - Black Graffiti Yellow White Black
Voltage - - 9 Volts 9 Volts 9 Volts - - 9 Volts 9 Volts -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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