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Beginner guitarists might feel as if looper pedals are in the shadow of ‘simpler’ pedal types. Rockers need plenty of drive, metal heads are after the dirtiest, most massive distortions, blues players have their fancy compressors, and so on. However, any guitar player worth their salt knows that a loop pedal can only boost the versatility of your arsenal.
Regardless of what type of music you play and what’s your preferred style, anyone and everyone can benefit from a looper pedal. There’s no set of rules to follow on how you should use it, it belongs to every music genre, but picking the right one might be a bit more difficult than you’d initially imagine.
Luckily for you, we’ve prepared some of the best looper pedals you can find in 2024, so without any further ado, let’s dig straight into the reviews.
Here are the best looper pedals 2024:
- Lekato Looper
- TC Electronic Ditto Looper
- Nux Loop Core Deluxe Bundle
- Electro-Harmonix Nano Looper 360
- CNZ Audio RePete GLP-50
- Boss RC-3 Loop Station
- DigiTech JamMan Express XT
- DigiTech JamMan Stereo
- Boss RC-300 Loop Station
1. Lekato Looper
The best cheap looper pedal you can buy under $50
Let’s kick off with one of the cheapest looper pedal models, Lekato’s Looper. Basically, the main benefit this looper brings to the table isn’t affordability – it’s surprisingly versatile and easy to use while its sound quality is on par to most mid-priced looper models we’ve found on the market.
Unlike most budget loop pedals and loop stations, Lekato actually packs a sturdy aluminum alloy construction. It’s built like a brick house, and with proper use and maintenance you’ll be able to use it for years, if not decades to come.
The sound quality of this loop pedal is absolutely great, mainly due to the fact that it rocks a 24-bit convertor unit which provides uncompressed sonic performance. Furthermore, it packs an Analog-Dry-Through design which allows the dry sound to pass through all the tweaks almost unchanged.
Lekato’s Looper doesn’t come supplied with a ton of features. It has a turn on/off switch, and the intuitive ‘level’ knob. Basically, due to its simple design it’s best used by beginner guitar players.
You’ll be able to memorize up to 5 minute loops and have unlimited options in terms of overdubbing. This pedal is also suited for recording, although you might want to consider a bit more advanced model if you’re hitting the studio.
Image credit: Lekato
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All things considered, Lekato’s Looper pedal is a basic model which doesn’t really have what it takes to accommodate the needs of skilled players and veterans. However, it might be the best starting loop pedal as it’s very cheap and easy to use.
2. TC Electronic Ditto Looper
The best easy-to-use looper pedal for beginners
Next, we have the Ditto Looper by TC Electronic. This is probably the best budget looper pedal you can get that’s definitely worth the money! Coming from TC Electronic, it’s pretty clear that you’re getting great quality, both in terms of build and audio performance.
The compact form factor coupled with a strong metal body makes the Ditto Looper very convenient and durable. You can fit it on pretty much any pedalboard, and you’ll still have enough room for other effects.
It’s pretty clear by the one footswitch on this pedal, that it mainly focuses on guitarists that either want a straightforward looper pedal on stage, or a simple little addition to practice sessions. However, do keep in mind that it may be too small to be used on stage, as hitting that small footswitch on a dimly lit stage can be quite a challenge.
Basically, that’s what the Ditto Looper is all about, simplicity and efficiency. Whether you’re a beginner guitarist, or a newbie in terms of effects pedals, this model is probably the best compact looper pedal you can get.
You’ve got 5 minutes of recording time, so anything from subtle effects to whole riffs or even songs can be recorded on this bad boy. Unfortunately, you can’t save any loops on it, so it’s not great for one man band applications.
You can, however, overlay numerous samples one over the other, and the quality of the audio stays at a surprisingly high level!
Image credit: TC Electronic
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So, is the Ditto Looper worth the money? If you’re looking for the best simple looper pedal, definitely!
3. Nux Loop Core Deluxe Bundle
The best looper pedal for live performers
Here we are looking at Nux Loop Core Deluxe Bundle. Basically, it’s comprised of the Loop Core Deluxe pedal and a dual footswitch. Starting with the build quality, the Loop Core doesn’t disappoint. It’s pretty much at the same level as most other, ‘brand-name’ pedals you can find in this price range.
The first things you’ll probably notice are the dual inputs and outputs this pedal features. This can be a very useful feature, especially if you plan on using 2 instruments with this effect. The additional output gives you the ability to connect to a stereo rig down the chain, for that extra depth effect.
The fact that the new Loop Core boasts up to 8 hours of recording time makes it one of the best looper pedals for live use if you’re all about that one man band thing. Sure, you may only have one footswitch at your disposal, but with this much memory on board, you can easily pre-record all of the rhythm guitars or bass lines in your songs, and play the rest live over that.
Importing and exporting previously recorded loops is very easy, and is done via a USB cable. Feature-wise, the Loop Core Deluxe is full of handy surprises. Firstly, there are loads of different drum patterns pre-recorded on the pedal, so you can use those alongside the tap tempo feature.
Sound-wise, the Loop Core Deluxe performs pretty nicely, with the sound staying on point and natural, even after layers of different effects being applied.
In plain words, the Nux Loop Core Deluxe is one of the more advanced loop pedals which is characterized by the abundance of features it comes supplied with and a huge level of versatility. It’s certainly not too simple to use because of that, though, but luckily there’s a foot switch that greatly simplifies its method of operation.
Since most of the features onboard the Loop Core require you to actually crouch down to use them, the addition of the footswitch allows you to use most of them from an upright position, making the Loop Core Deluxe one of the best loopers for live musicians.
Image credit: Nux
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So, if you’re searching for a relatively inexpensive looper pedals that offers much more than most other competitive models in this price range, definitely consider getting the Loop Core Deluxe Bundle by Nux. With all of the features it offers, it’s probably the best looper pedal for bass as well, given the fact that it has tap tempo and pre-recorded drum beats.
4. Electro-Harmonix Nano Looper 360
The best small looper pedal for home practice
At number 5, we have the Nano Looper 360 by Electro-Harmonix. Like the name suggests, this pedal is pretty small, and with its features, it’s probably the best looper pedal for practice sessions.
Starting with the build quality and design, you’re getting that well-known Electro-Harmonix sturdiness. The body is metal of course, and the knobs are big and precise. The Nano Looper 360 will definitely last you a long time if you treat it well.
I/O-wise, this model is pretty simple, with only an input and output, much like most other pedals tend to have. The controls while pretty simple, offer a very pleasant user experience. Making it to do exactly what you want is easy and intuitive. As far as the knobs go, you’ve got level and loop controls, with the latter being responsible for switching through the 11 available banks.
The ‘360’ part of the name suggests that you have 360 seconds of loop time at your disposal. You can divide that time any way you want through the 11 banks.
The fact that cycling through the individual banks requires you to bend down and use the knob makes this pedal not that practical for performing live. But, if you’re looking for the best looping pedal for home use, the Nano Looper 360 may just be your best option.
Overdubbing sounds great, and the two LED lights on the top of the pedal let you know which mode is currently active.
Image credit: Electro-Harmonix
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The EHX Nano Looper 360 retails for around $100. If you’re looking for a simple yet effective good loop pedal for home practice sessions, definitely consider getting this model.
5. CNZ Audio RePete GLP-50
The best versatile looper for experienced players
Next up is CNZ Audio’s RePete GLP-50 stereo looper. Now, this loop pedal can do wonders in the hands of an experienced guitarist, although it’s more than obvious that most beginners wouldn’t be able to handle it by a long shot.
The first thing you’ll notice about RePete GLP-50 is its design. It has a huge footprint for a loop pedal, and the graphics, although they look quite cool, might confuse even some of the most seasoned guitar veterans.
There are two inputs onboard, which basically means that you’ll be able to wire up two instruments, or even two pedal chains on the RePete. Each input is governed by its own set of onboard controls, although the speed of the loop is universal and will affect both inputs.
You will be able to store 10 minutes worth of loops on the GLP-50 and will benefit from the unlimited overdubbing options. There’s an internal SSD storage with impeccable tracking, so you can rest assured that your looped tracks will be primed and ready for use in mere seconds.
The only problem is, as mentioned earlier, that the graphic content on the pedal makes this guitar looper a bit harder to use. There’s just too much text onboard, and you’ll basically need to ‘study’ all the positions and features so that you can use them even while blindfolded.
Image credit: CNZ Audio
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Though you might need some time to follow the learning curve of the RePete GLP-50, the rewards are great. This looper pedal offers a variety of unique, exquisite benefits, but only to those who are willing to pull up with the painstaking process of learning how to utilize its potential to the fullest.
6. Boss RC-3 Loop Station
The best looper pedal you can buy under $200
Many guitarists and other musicians think of Boss when someone mentions effects pedals, and for a good reason. This company is known for making some of the best-selling pedals for quite some time, and their RC-3 Loop Station is no exception.
The art of cramming loads of useful features and amazing specs in a relatively small device is what Boss excels at. Like most other Boss products, the RC-3 is built to cater the needs of traveling musicians, feeling very sturdy and utilizing high-quality components.
In terms of connectivity, this pedal offers both dual outputs as well as inputs. This means you can use 2 instruments with it at the same time, and connect to stereo-supporting devices down the equipment chain. It’s because of that feature many users find the RC-3 to be the best looper pedal for guitar and vocals.
Connectivity doesn’t end there. You can plug a USB cable to this pedal, and transfer .wav audio files to and from it if you feel the need to use third party samples and loops. The internal memory offers up to 3 hours of loop recording, at stereo quality of course.
Another useful feature is the tap tempo, which allows you to manually set the tempo of your pre-recorded loops. On the back, there is an AUX input, for connecting any other 3.5mm compliant device.
Much like other pedals, all of the recording-related controls are executed via the footswitch. A dual knob alongside 5 buttons is used for cycling through the memory banks, setting the rhythm, and all the other parameters.
Image credit: Boss
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The RC-3 by Boss definitely packs a bunch of useful features in a sturdy little device. Unfortunately, cycling through the different banks still requires you to use your hands, making it inconvenient for use on stage.
All things considered, the RC-3 is probably one of the best guitar looper pedals for musicians who like to tinker around with different parameters and features.
7. DigiTech JamMan Express XT
The best value looper pedal for the money
DigiTech is known for making some of the best-selling effects pedals and processors for quite some time now. How does their JamMan Express XT looper pedal compare to the others in this review?
While the JamMan Express XT is somewhat of an entry-level looper pedal, it manages to compete with more expensive, competitor models. Whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced guitar player, chances are that the JamMan will give you a pretty satisfying and productive experience.
The build quality is at a pretty good level, meaning you can count on this pedal to last you a fairly long time. The one knob on the top is not only quite bulky but feels solid and precise.
The JamMan Express XT features only one footswitch and one knob, used for controlling the actual level of the pedal. Unlike most other models, this one has 3 LEDs that let you know which mode you’re in currently.
Like the previously mentioned Loop Core Deluxe, the JamMan Express XT offers dual inputs as well as outputs, making it yet another great choice for anyone looking to experiment with looping more than one instrument.
You’ve got up to 10 minutes of looping time, which should be enough for most guitarists out there. Unlimited overdubs and undo and redo are, of course, featured.
But why should you get this model over so many others in this price range, that offer additional specs and features? Well, the JamMan Express XT boasts true bypass, as well as a much cleaner and natural-feeling sound. It’s probably the best-sounding looper pedal you can get, that still has pretty neat features at the same time.
Image credit: DigiTech
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The JamMan Express XT by DigiTech gives you the neat abilities of a good looper pedal while maintaining a high level of audio quality and clarity. A simple and effective pedal that’s definitely worth checking out.
8. DigiTech JamMan Stereo
The best looper pedal for touring musicians
Coming up at number 8, we have the JamMan Stereo from DigiTech. This model is considered as the more advanced version of the JamMan Express XT we’ve mentioned already in this article, focusing more on the needs of professional and touring musicians.
Once again you get that amazingly sturdy and long-lasting body, that’s able to take quite a punch. The all metal construction alongside top-notch switches and knobs makes the JamMan Stereo looper a worthy addition to any touring musician’s equipment list.
In terms of sheer range of features and performance, this model may just be the best looper effects pedal on the market. Let’s see what exactly it has to offer.
With 35 minutes of onboard memory, you can record and loop pretty much anything that comes to your mind. If, however, that’s not enough, you can always pop in an SD card for 16 more hours! Finding your way through all those loops can be pretty hard, so DigiTech included a neat software pack to make it easier.
As the JamMan Stereo has 2 instrument and one XLR input, you can use it with any instrument/mic you want. The output is stereo as well, with additional footswitch and AUX inputs, and a rhythm and headphone output. A definite winner in terms of connectivity!
Tap tempo is featured as expected, as well as the very neat reverse function, which plays your loops in reverse.
With 4 footswitches at your disposal, the JamMan Stereo is the best guitar loop station you’d want to have on stage. Switching between various loops is amazingly easy, and you can control the tempo of the playback without having to bend down.
The rest of the controls include separate mic/instrument loop levels and the rhythm effect.
Image credit: DigiTech
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The JamMan Stereo is a powerhouse of a looper pedal. Need a reliable and convenient looper to use on stage? Look no further than this bad boy.
9. Boss RC-300 Loop Station
The best looper pedal you can buy in 2024
And finally, at number 9, the Boss RC-300 Loop Station. Compared to this model, all the other ones look like toys. However, with a high price point and a wide range of features, this pedal definitely focuses on professionals, so the difference is justified. While it’s the most expensive one on the list, you definitely get what you paid for.
As it’s the size of a whole pedalboard, it will probably take up most of the space you have, whether it’s in your practice studio or on stage. The control layout is basically separated into 3 channels. Each of the channels has 2 footswitches, with one being used for recording and playback, and the other for stopping the playback. Each of the channels also has a dedicated fader, for an additional level of control over them.
Besides the 6 footswitches dedicated to the channels, there are two more, one for playing all 3 channels at once, and one Loop FX switch. Loop/recording time you get with the RC-300 is up to 3 hours, more than enough for a whole album or two you can store on this beast of a pedal.
USB connectivity for sample import/export is available, as well as 16 built-in effects. That being said, the RC-300 is more of a guitar processor than just your extended looper pedal.
On the far right-hand side, there is even an expression pedal, that has various applications depending on which effect is currently active. Input/output-wise, you have a whole myriad of connections. An XLR, stereo instrument, as well as an AUX input. This is also the only model which supports MIDI sync!
Image credit: Boss
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The RC-300 Loop Station pretty much has it all. Definitely ask yourself if you truly need all of the features it has to offer before deciding to go with this model.
Conclusion
So, as you’ve had the chance to see, there are so many different looper pedals on the market, ranging from budget ones with simple features, to more advanced ones with loads of unique and convenient specs and options.
We hope that you found this article informative and that it helped you in choosing the right model for your particular needs. Thank you very much for reading, and we’ll catch you in the next one!