AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best MXR Bass Pedals 2026
The top pick is MXR M84 Bass Fuzz Deluxe ($176). MXR MB301 Bass Synth leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 14 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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The M84 Bass Fuzz Deluxe nails that classic, saturated fuzz tone – think vintage Ampeg SVT with a serious dose of grit. It’s a straightforward pedal, ideal for bassists chasing a specific, thick fuzz sound, especially those playing genres like doom, stoner, or psychedelic rock. The Dry blend is a real winner for adding warmth without losing your fundamental bass frequencies.
Pros
- Vintage-voiced fuzz delivers thick, woolly bass tones perfect for stoner rock.
- Dry blend control allows for subtle saturation or full-on fuzz.
- Robust MXR construction ensures durability for gigging musicians.
Cons
- Can get muddy at higher gain settings, especially with active basses.
- Limited versatility – primarily a fuzz pedal, not a broad tone-shaping tool.
63AudioFu
Index↓ 11.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$200 · Aug 17$176 now$176€158 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
MXR M82 Bass Envelope Filter
M 82 Bass Envelope Filter · MXR
118 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The M 82 is a fantastic recreation of the classic MXR 808 bass envelope filter. It nails that funky, percussive sound that defined 80s basslines. If you’re looking for that vintage vibe without the vintage price tag, this is a solid choice for funk, slap, and even some rock bass tones.
Pros
- Excellent auto-wah character, true to the original 808 bass circuit
- Robust aluminum die-cast enclosure provides lasting durability
- Intuitive controls allow for quick and precise envelope filter shaping
Cons
- Can be overly sensitive to pick attack, requiring careful gain staging
- Limited tonal range compared to more complex, digital envelope filters
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$201 now$201€180 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The MXR M87 Bass Compressor is a solid, reliable workhorse. It's fantastic for bassists needing consistent dynamics and a clean, powerful low-end—perfect for session players and gigging musicians who want a no-fuss, transparent compression solution without getting lost in a sea of knobs.
Pros
- Robust metal enclosure provides excellent durability for gigging musicians.
- CHT technology delivers transparent compression without unwanted distortion.
- Well-spaced controls allow for precise shaping of attack, release, and ratio.
Cons
- Attack knob can be a bit sensitive, requiring careful adjustment.
- Limited flexibility compared to multi-function compressor pedals.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$226 now$226€203 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The MB301 is a fantastic entry point into bass synth territory, especially if you’re after that classic funk and slap sound. Ian Martin Allison's influence shines through with its surprisingly versatile voice shaping and a really usable sub oscillator. It's perfect for gigging bassists wanting a compact, reliable synth foundation.
Pros
- Analog circuitry delivers thick, warm, and responsive synth tones
- Voice/Shape buttons offer surprisingly diverse sonic palettes
- Sub mix control allows for subtle or massive low-end augmentation
Cons
- Limited modulation depth compared to dedicated synth pedals
- Envelope response can be a little sluggish with extreme settings
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This M280 is a fantastic recreation of a classic MXR circuit, delivering a surprisingly clean and powerful sub-octave sound. It's a solid choice for bassists wanting to add some serious low-end thump to their sound, especially those leaning towards funk, dub, or heavier genres, and it's surprisingly affordable.
Pros
- Excellent tracking, even with fast basslines and complex rhythms.
- The MID switch provides crucial tonal shaping for clarity.
- Solid metal housing feels robust and gig-ready; reliable build.
Cons
- Lacks battery operation, requiring a power supply – a modern inconvenience.
- The MID trimpot adjustment is internal, limiting fine-tuning.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$173 now$173€155 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The MXR M 81 is a seriously useful little box for bassists. It’s got a clean DI out for recording or live sound, plus a flexible EQ section that lets you really dial in your tone. It’s a great option for gigging bass players who need a reliable preamp and DI in one pedal, especially those wanting to shape their low-end.
Pros
- Excellent EQ flexibility with parametric mids for precise shaping
- DI output is clean and robust, a great stage solution
- Solid MXR build quality; feels durable and ready for touring
Cons
- Can be a bit bulky for smaller pedalboards or gig bags
- Mid-frequency control range might be limited for some tonal needs
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$221 now$221€198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The MXR Bass Distortion M 85 is a seriously useful addition to any bassist's arsenal. Ryan Ratajski’s design shines, offering a surprisingly versatile palette of distortion tones without getting muddy. It's an affordable and well-built option perfect for players seeking a focused, aggressive drive or a subtle edge.
Pros
- Ryan Ratajski’s input delivers a genuinely usable and musical bass distortion.
- Silicon/LED clipping options offer diverse distortion textures – from aggressive to open.
- Robust metal housing provides excellent durability for gigging and studio use.
Cons
- The tone control’s range is somewhat limited, impacting high-end shaping.
- Requires a separate power supply, adding to the overall investment.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$183 now$183€164 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The M 83 Bass Chorus Deluxe is a seriously useful pedal for bassists wanting classic chorus sounds without losing the low-end punch. The X-Over feature is a game-changer, and the flanger mode is a nice bonus for adding some extra character. It’s a great choice for session players and gigging bassists who need a reliable and versatile chorus effect.
Pros
- Excellent bass-focused chorus tones, avoids muddy low-end issues
- The X-Over function preserves fundamental bass frequencies beautifully
- Robust MXR build quality; feels solid and reliable
Cons
- Intensity control can be a bit too sensitive, requiring careful tweaking
- Stereo operation is internal, lacking a dedicated footswitch
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$238 now$238€213 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The M288 is a solid, affordable option for bassists looking to add some serious low-end punch and experimentation to their sound. The Growl and Girth controls really set it apart from simpler octave pedals, letting you sculpt the octave’s character. It's a great choice for players wanting 80s-inspired synth tones or just a little extra rumble.
Pros
- Growl control significantly improves octave tone realism and clarity.
- Girth knob offers substantial tonal shaping, from deep to synth-like.
- MXR’s robust build quality ensures durability for gigging bassists.
Cons
- True bypass isn't present, potential for slight tone coloration.
- Can introduce muddiness at higher octave and Girth settings.
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$177 now$177€159 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The MXR M80 Bass DI Plus is a seriously well-equipped direct box for bassists who want a bit of everything. It’s great for players who need a solid DI signal with shaping options and a touch of overdrive—perfect for funk, rock, or even a little blues where you want to add some warmth and aggression without needing a separate overdrive pedal.
Pros
- Rugged metal housing inspires confidence on stage and in the studio
- Versatile EQ section shapes tone from scooped mids to aggressive highs
- Distortion offers usable grit, not just fuzz – surprisingly musical
Cons
- Size and weight make it less ideal for gigging bassists with limited space
- Distortion character might be too subtle for players seeking extreme distortion
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$220 now$220€197 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 14 bass pedals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
MXR Bass Octave Bundle PS A1MXR · 2 finishes27Stable$193€173$193€173Check ↗
- 12
MXR Bass Envelope Bundle PS A1MXR · 2 finishes27Stable$216€194$216€194Check ↗
- 13
MXR Bass Chorus Bundle PS A1MXR · 2 finishes27Stable$253€227$253€227Check ↗
- 14
MXR Bass Comp Bundle PS A1 RBMXR24Stable$243€218$243€218Check ↗
Bass Pedals by the numbers
Measured across all 151 models we track, not a sample.
Median $217 — half of all bass pedals here cost less.
median of 9 models · 0.33 kg–0.75 kg
How to choose the best bass pedals
Heritage & Design Philosophy
MXR's roots are in effects that add something, not just clean boosts. They lean into saturated, characterful sounds - think vintage amp tones and unique textures, rather than pristine, transparent processing. This isn't about sterile clarity.
Tone Characteristics
That's that distinct MXR vibe. It's often described as having a "forward" sound - meaning it cuts through a mix well, even with heavier distortion. The low-end is usually present, but can sometimes need a little tweaking to avoid muddiness, especially with overly aggressive settings. The mids are often where the magic happens - that fat midrange honk that really defines a bass tone.
Build Quality
These are generally solid pedals. The stompboxes are metal, the footswitches are reliable, and the pots feel decent. They're not boutique-level luxury, but they're built to withstand the rigors of gigging - something you can't always say about cheaper alternatives. The knob labels are often a bit small, though, which can be a pain in low light.
Versatility
MXR's bass pedals aren't just one trick ponies. While some are obviously designed for specific sounds (like the Bass Distortion+), many offer a surprising amount of tonal flexibility. You can dial in everything from subtle overdrive to full-blown fuzz, and often find usable sounds in between. The blend knob on some models is especially crucial for preserving your fundamental tone.
Signal Integrity
MXR pedals generally maintain good signal integrity, meaning you're not losing a ton of low-end or dynamics. However, pushing them into extreme distortion can sometimes introduce a little noise - a trade-off for that extra saturation. It's rarely a dealbreaker, but something to be aware of, especially if you're recording in a quiet environment.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk MXR bass pedals. They've got a serious legacy, stretching back to the days of phasers and fuzzes for guitar, but their bass offerings have really come into their own. If you're looking for something that's going to add some serious character and versatility to your bass tone - something beyond the usual fuzz and chorus - MXR is a brand worth digging into. They're not always the easiest to dial in, but when they work, they really work.
Don't expect pristine, transparent sounds from MXR. They're designed to add something, and that's where their strength lies. If you're after a subtle clean boost, look elsewhere.
Pay attention to the blend knob - it's your friend for preserving the fundamental tone. Also, be prepared to spend some time dialing them in; they can be a little less intuitive than some other brands.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 17 bass pedals from the Thomann catalogue (of 151 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are MXR bass pedals true bypass?
Most newer MXR bass pedals are true bypass, which means they don't color your tone when they're off. However, some older models might be buffered, so check the specs before you buy if that's a concern.
Can I use these pedals with a guitar?
Absolutely. While designed for bass, many MXR pedals work great on guitar, especially for adding fuzz, distortion, or modulation. Just be mindful of the increased output and potential for muddiness on guitar, especially with higher gain settings.
What's the difference between the Bass Distortion+ and the Distortion+?
The Bass Distortion+ is specifically voiced for bass frequencies, with a more pronounced low-end and a more controllable distortion response. The standard Distortion+ can work on bass, but it might be a little too harsh and thin.
Are MXR pedals noisy?
Like any distortion pedal, MXR pedals can introduce some noise, especially at higher gain settings. It's generally manageable, but if you're recording in a very quiet environment, you might need to consider a noise gate.
How do I get a clean bass tone with an MXR pedal?
It's tricky, but possible! Use the blend knob to retain your clean signal, and dial back the drive/distortion. Experiment with EQ settings to shape the tone and avoid muddiness. It's more about enhancing a clean tone than creating one from scratch.
