AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Chorus / Flanger / Phaser Pedals Under $500 2026
The top pick is Walrus Audio Polychrome Analog Flanger ($240). MXR M101 Phase 90 gives you the most for the money at $105. Walrus Audio Julianna Deluxe Chorus / Vibrato leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 130 models across 45 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Walrus Audio Polychrome Analog Flanger
Polychrome · Walrus Audio
49 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight0.35 kg
The Polychrome is a seriously fun flanger, offering a wider range of sounds than you’d expect at its price. It’s fantastic for players wanting to explore classic flange tones alongside more experimental, modulated textures – perfect for indie, shoegaze, or anyone wanting to add some swirling character to their sound.
Pros
- Versatile flanger tones, from subtle to psychedelic, easily accessible.
- The D-F-V control offers a unique blend of flange and vibrato.
- Walrus Audio’s build quality feels robust; the enclosure is substantial.
Cons
- The complex voice can be a bit unruly for beginners to dial in.
- The feedback control can quickly become overwhelming without careful adjustment.
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$240 now$240€213 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Walrus Audio Julianna Deluxe Chorus / Vibrato
Julianna Chorus Black · Walrus Audio
107 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
This pedal gives you a full stereo chorus that doesn't mix in dry signal, which sounds much wider than mono models. You can tweak the speed, depth, and even change the waveform shape to get different textures. It works well for players who need tight timing because of the tap tempo and clock inputs. If you want a powerful stereo effect without extra gear, this is a solid choice.
Pros
- Stereo mode delivers full effect level without mixing in dry signal
- Multiple waveform options let you shape the chorus character
- External clock input allows precise timing control
Cons
- Mono output relies on a single lag control for balance
- No power supply type or battery life information given
68AudioFu
Index↓ 6.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$332 · Aug 17$312 now$312€277 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Phase 90 is the quintessential phaser – simple, iconic, and nails that vintage vibe. Perfect for players chasing that classic 70s swirl, especially for rock, funk, and even some subtle psychedelic textures. It's a go-to for anyone wanting a straightforward, reliable phase effect without a ton of fuss.
Pros
- Classic 70s phase tone, instantly recognizable and versatile
- Rugged metal enclosure withstands gigging abuse reliably
- Simple, intuitive single-knob control for easy speed adjustment
Cons
- Single control limits nuanced tone shaping capabilities
- True bypass is absent, potentially coloring the signal
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This MXR M 234 is a fantastic little chorus pedal. It nails that classic, shimmering analog vibe without the digital sterility you sometimes get. Ideal for guitarists wanting a subtle, warm chorus for cleans or a more swirling effect for leads—a real workhorse for a wide range of styles.
Pros
- Warm, lush analog chorus sound rarely found at this price point
- Compact size makes it pedalboard-friendly, a real space saver
- Effective bass and treble EQ shaping avoids muddy or harsh tones
Cons
- Analog nature can introduce a bit of noise, especially at higher rates
- Smaller enclosure can make tweaking controls feel a little cramped
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$142 now$142€126 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Boss CH-1 is a workhorse chorus pedal. It's a solid, affordable choice for players wanting a classic, shimmering chorus sound with a bit of EQ shaping – especially good for brightening up clean tones and adding subtle movement. It's a great entry point into chorus effects or a reliable backup pedal for gigging musicians.
Pros
- Classic Boss build quality: robust and reliable for years of use
- EQ control allows for tailoring the chorus to avoid muddiness
- Excellent stereo widening; noticeably enhances clean and shimmering tones
Cons
- Chorus effect can sound a bit dated compared to modern, more nuanced options
- Limited control compared to more advanced, multi-mode chorus pedals
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$129 now$129€115 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
MXR M68 Uni-Vibe Chorus / Vibrato Pedal
M68 Uni-Vibe Chorus/Vibrato · MXR
154 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The M68 nails the vibe of the original Uni-Vibe, offering that swirling, hypnotic character perfect for psychedelic rock, classic soul, and adding a touch of vintage warmth. It's a straightforward pedal – no endless tweakery – making it easy to dial in a great sound quickly. If you’re chasing that late-’60s tone without the vintage price tag, this is a fantastic option.
Pros
- Faithfully recreates the classic Uni-Vibe swirl and movement
- Solid build quality with MXR’s reliable footswitch and enclosure
- Depth control adds a unique modulation character beyond standard chorus
Cons
- Limited control compared to more complex modulation pedals
- Uni-Vibe sound isn't universally appealing; can be quite 'woody'
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$173 now$173€154 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This pedal delivers Eddie Van Halen's famous choral sound in a solid metal case. It handles your signal with stereo outputs and lets you choose between true or buffered bypass. Great for players who want that classic effect without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Eddie Van Halen signature model for classic choral sound
- Stereo wet and dry outputs for flexible mixing
- Metal case for durable road use
Cons
- Input level switch offers three distinct settings
- Output level switch offers two distinct settings
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Sep 12Sep 12$230 now$230€204 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Walrus Audio Julia Chorus / Vibrato V2
Julia V2 · Walrus Audio
100 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The Julia V2 is a surprisingly versatile chorus/vibrato pedal. Its lag control really sets it apart, letting you dial in subtle shimmer or more intense, swirling textures. It's a fantastic choice for players seeking a warm, characterful modulation effect without the complexity of a full-blown multi-effect unit.
Pros
- Exceptional LFO flexibility shapes unique chorus and vibrato textures
- Warm analog circuitry delivers lush, organic modulation
- D-C-V knob provides seamless transitions from subtle to intense effects
Cons
- Limited wave shape options compared to some competitors' offerings
- Size can be a constraint on smaller pedalboards
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$245 now$245€218 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
MXR MX100 Rockman X100 Analog Tone Processor
Rockman X100 · MXR
163 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This Rockman X100 is a clever re-imagining of a classic, bringing that instantly recognizable Boston chorus sound to a stompbox format. It's a great option for players seeking a clean, compressed tone with a touch of 80s sparkle, and the preset functionality is surprisingly useful. Ideal for players wanting a compact, all-in-one solution for clean, slightly driven, and chorus-laden tones.
Pros
- Authentic MN3007 chorus chip delivers that iconic 80s shimmer.
- Dynamic compression adds punch and sustain without excessive squashing.
- Four presets offer flexibility for different tonal needs and performances.
Cons
- Limited control over chorus depth and rate compared to dedicated chorus pedals.
- The 'Edge' distortion is more of a light overdrive, not a full distortion.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$258 now$258€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight2.1 kg
This Warm Audio Jet Phaser nails the vibe of a much pricier vintage unit. It’s a fantastic option for players wanting that classic 70s swirl – especially good for funk, rock, and psychedelic tones – without emptying your wallet. The added fuzz-like qualities in the Jet modes give it a unique edge.
Pros
- Excellent recreation of a classic phase sound, surprisingly versatile for the price
- Jet modes offer a unique, swirling character beyond typical phasing
- Solid build quality with a robust enclosure and reliable footswitch
Cons
- Resonance control can get a bit muddy at higher settings, especially with humbuckers
- Size is a bit bulky, may not fit easily on smaller pedalboards
All 130 chorus / flanger / phaser pedals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Boss PH-3 Phase ShifterPH-3 · Boss63Stable$152€135$152€135Check ↗
- 12
MXR M148 Micro Chorus PedalM148 Micro Chorus · MXR62Stable$137€122$137€122Check ↗
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MXR M290 Phase 95 Mini Phaser PedalM290 Phase 95 · MXR62Stable$141€125$141€125Check ↗
- 14
Boss BF-3 FlangerBF-3 · Boss62Stable$159€141$159€141Check ↗
- 15
MXR EVH117 FlangerEVH-117 Flanger · MXR62Stable$241€214$241€214Check ↗
- 16
Electro Harmonix Small CloneElectro Harmonix61Stable$100€89$100€89Check ↗
- 17
Boss PS-6 HarmonistBoss61Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 18
Warm Audio WA-C1 Chorus VibratoWarm Audio · 2 finishes61↓ 5.9%$232€206$232€206Check ↗
- 19
Electro Harmonix Small StoneElectro Harmonix60Stable$74€66$74€66Check ↗
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MXR M152 Micro FlangerMXR60Stable$168€149$168€149Check ↗
- 21
Boss DC-2W Dimension C Chorus Waza CraftDC-2w Dimension Chorus · Boss60↓ 3.2%$271€241$271€241Check ↗
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Electro Harmonix Bad StoneElectro Harmonix59Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
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Electro Harmonix Eddy Vibrato/ChorusElectro Harmonix59Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 24
EarthQuaker Devices Aurelius Tri-Voice ChorusEarthQuaker Devices59↓ 3.1%$250€222$250€222Check ↗
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MXR M101GLD 50th Anniversary Phase 9050th Anniversary Phase 90 Gold · MXR59↓ 4.0%$269€239$269€239Check ↗
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Electro Harmonix Nano CloneElectro Harmonix58Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
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Electro Harmonix Stereo Electric MistressElectro Harmonix58Stable$129€115$129€115Check ↗
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MXR WA90 Wylde Audio PhaseWylde Audio Phase · MXR58Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
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MXR M107 Phase 100 ReissuePhase 100 · MXR58Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 30
Boss PX-1 Plugout FXBoss58Stable$253€225$253€225Check ↗
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Electro Harmonix Neo CloneElectro Harmonix57Stable$84€75$84€75Check ↗
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Electro Harmonix Walking On The Moon FlangerElectro Harmonix57Stable$120€107$120€107Check ↗
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Strymon MobiusStrymon57Stable$495€440$495€440Check ↗
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Warm Audio Mutation Phasor IIWarm Audio56Stable$168€149$168€149Check ↗
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MXR M-117R FlangerMXR56Stable$212€188$212€188Check ↗
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Boss MD-200 Modulation Multi-EffectMD-200 Modulation · Boss56Stable$298€265$298€265Check ↗
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Walrus Audio Fundamental ChorusWalrus Audio55Stable$122€108$122€108Check ↗
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Walrus Audio Fundamental PhaserWalrus Audio54Stable$123€109$123€109Check ↗
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EarthQuaker Devices Sea Machine Super Chorus V3Sea Machine V3 · EarthQuaker Devices54Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
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EarthQuaker Devices Grand Orbiter Phase Machine V3Grand Orbiter V3 · EarthQuaker Devices53Stable$241€214$241€214Check ↗
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Keeley 30ms Automatic Double TrackerKeeley53Stable$253€225$253€225Check ↗
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PRS Wind Through the Trees Dual Analog FlangerWind Through the trees Dual Fl · PRS53Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
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TC Electronic Stereo Chorus + Pitch Modulator & Flanger 1991 - 2016SCF Gold Chorus/Flanger · tc electronic52Stable$87€77$87€77Check ↗
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TC Electronic Stereo Chorus + Pitch Modulator & Flanger 1991 - 2016SCF Gold SE Chorus/Flanger · tc electronic52Stable$88€78$88€78Check ↗
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Mooer Ninety Orange Mini Phaser PedalNinety Orange · Mooer50Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
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Ibanez CSMINI Chorus MiniCSMini Chorus Pedal · Ibanez50↓ 2.2%$100€89$100€89Check ↗
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TC Electronic Plethora X1 TonePrint LoaderPlethora X1 · tc electronic · 2 finishes50Stable$125€111$125€111Check ↗
- 48
Way Huge WM61 Smalls Blue Hippo Analog Chorus MkIIISmalls Blue Hippo · Way Huge50Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
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Beetronics Seabee HarmochorusBeetronics50Stable$483€429$483€429Check ↗
- 50
Death By Audio Disturbance Lockable LFO ModulatorDisturbance · Death by Audio48Stable$303€269$303€269Check ↗
Chorus/Flanger/Phaser Pedals by the numbers
Measured across all 136 models we track, not a sample.
Median $142 — half of all chorus/flanger/phaser pedals here cost less.
How to choose the best chorus/flanger/phaser pedals
Rate/Depth Control
This dictates the speed and intensity of the modulation - a wider range gives you more sonic possibilities, from subtle thickening to outright psychedelic mayhem.
Tone Shaping/EQ
A good modulation pedal shouldn't just add movement; it should complement your guitar's existing voicing. Look for controls that let you adjust the overall tone or filter out unwanted frequencies - especially important for bass players.
Stereo Capabilities
Stereo widening is a game-changer for chorus and flanger, adding a huge sense of space. Even a basic stereo output is a significant upgrade for gigging or recording.
Noise Floor
Modulation pedals are notoriously susceptible to noise, especially at higher rates. A low noise floor means less hiss and more usable signal, particularly when stacking with other pedals.
Build Quality/Durability
Let's be honest, gigging is rough. A pedal that falls apart after six months isn't a good value, regardless of how good it sounds. Sturdy enclosures, reliable footswitches, and robust components are key.
Buying guide
Okay, so you're chasing that shimmering chorus, swirling flanger, or hypnotic phaser vibe without blowing your gig money. It's totally doable - you don't need to spend a fortune to get usable, even inspiring, modulation. This list digs into the best chorus, flanger, and phaser pedals you can snag for under $500, balancing tone, versatility, and build quality because let's be real, you need something that'll survive a few years in a pedalboard, not just sound good in a YouTube demo.
At this price point, you're generally trading off a few things. Some pedals might have a slightly limited range of sounds, or the build quality might not be as bombproof as a boutique pedal. Don't expect pristine, studio-grade clarity - some budget pedals can introduce a bit of grit or a slight color to your tone.
However, many offer incredible bang-for-the-buck, delivering inspiring sounds that will add a ton of character to your playing without breaking the bank. Look for pedals with adjustable depth and rate controls - those are the most versatile.
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 136 chorus/flanger/phaser pedals from the Thomann catalogue. 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
Can I get a true stereo flanger under $500?
Absolutely! Several options offer true stereo outputs, which will dramatically widen your sound. Just make sure your amp or recording interface is also stereo-capable to take full advantage.
I'm a bassist - will these pedals work well with my bass?
Definitely! Many of these pedals are bass-friendly, but pay attention to the EQ. Some might get muddy at lower frequencies. Look for controls that allow you to filter out some of the low-end if needed. A little less rate and depth often works wonders for bass lines.
What's the difference between a chorus and a flanger?
Think of chorus as a subtle thickening effect - it creates a shimmering, layered sound. Flanger is more dramatic, creating a sweeping, jet-plane-like effect. Phaser is a more complex modulation that creates a swirling, psychedelic vibe. They all add movement, but the character is different.
Are digital chorus/flanger/phaser pedals better than analog?
It's not always a clear-cut thing. Analog pedals often have a warmer, more organic feel, but digital pedals can offer more versatility and often have lower noise. Some of the best pedals blend both technologies - it's about the overall sound, not just the type of circuitry.
I'm worried about noise - what can I do?
A noisy modulation pedal is a frustrating experience. Try lowering the rate and depth settings, which can reduce noise. A noise gate after the pedal can help, but it's best to find a pedal with a naturally low noise floor to begin with.
