8 Best Sustain Pedals For Guitar

Hey there! If you’re a music enthusiast, or an avid guitar or keyboard player, you probably know the importance of having a reliable sustain pedal or compressor/sustainer pedal. These handy devices can enhance your playing experience by providing sustain and compression effects, adding depth and dimension to your sound. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at some popular options on the market and comparing their features and performance.

Sustain pedals have been a staple in the music industry for decades. They were first introduced to keyboard players in the early 20th century, allowing them to hold notes for longer durations. Over time, sustain pedals have evolved to accommodate various instruments, including electric guitars. With the ability to create a sustained, resonant sound, they add a whole new level of richness to your music.

On the other hand, compressor/sustainer pedals are designed specifically for guitars and basses. These pedals even out the dynamics of your playing by compressing the louder notes and boosting the quieter ones. This results in a more consistent sound and improved sustain. Compressor pedals have become a must-have tool for guitarists and bassists, whether they’re playing live on stage or recording in the studio.

Now that we understand the history and benefits of these products, let’s delve deeper into each option and see what they have to offer.

Alesis Universal Sustain Pedal with Footswitch, 5ft Cable and Non Slip Base

The Alesis ASP-1 MKII Universal Sustain Pedal and Momentary Footswitch is designed to enhance the expressive control of electric keyboards, pianos, synthesizers, MIDI controllers, and more. With its portable and compact design, it can be easily carried and used in various settings, from the stage to the studio.

One of the standout features of the Alesis ASP-1 MKII is its universal compatibility. The product’s polarity switch allows it to be used with any instrument that has a 1/4-inch sustain or momentary footswitch input, providing versatile control for musicians. This flexibility makes it ideal for those who own multiple instruments or frequently perform with different equipment.

The Alesis ASP-1 MKII serves as a sustain pedal and a momentary footswitch, expanding the range of expressive control for musicians. Its durable mechanism ensures an immediate response, allowing for precise and fluid playing. The 5-foot hardwired cable with a 1/4-inch plug provides convenience and eliminates the need for additional cables or adapters.

The pedal’s non-slip bottom and footpad ensure stability and reliable performance, even during intense playing sessions. This feature is especially important for musicians who require a sustain pedal that stays in place, enabling them to focus on their performance without worrying about pedal movement.

The Alesis ASP-1 MKII is built with high-quality materials and components, guaranteeing its durability and longevity. Its construction makes it a reliable tool for both live performances and studio recording sessions. The pedal’s fast-acting mechanism and immediate response contribute to its overall quality, ensuring that it meets the demands of professional musicians.

Some notable pros of the Alesis ASP-1 MKII include its universal compatibility, compact design, and non-slip bottom. It offers a reliable performance and immediate response, making it suitable for various musical genres and playing styles.

While the Alesis ASP-1 MKII has received positive feedback, one potential drawback is the hardwired cable. While it eliminates the need for additional cables, some musicians may prefer the flexibility of a detachable cable.

The Alesis ASP-1 MKII Universal Sustain Pedal and Momentary Footswitch is a high-quality and versatile tool for musicians seeking to enhance their expressive control. Its compatibility with various instruments, durable construction, and reliable performance make it a valuable addition to any musician’s gear collection.

Behringer CS400 Pedal

The Behringer CS400 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal is primarily designed for guitarists who want to enhance their playing experience by adding sustain and smoothing out inconsistencies in their sound. This pedal is perfect for guitarists of all genres, whether they are playing rock, blues, country, or jazz.

There are several reasons why we like the Behringer CS400 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal. Firstly, it offers excellent value for money, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious musicians. Despite its affordable price, this pedal delivers outstanding performance and durability.

Secondly, the CS400 offers a wide range of controls that allow users to customize their sound to their liking. With the level, sustain, and attack controls, guitarists have the flexibility to shape their tone and achieve the sustain they desire.

Additionally, the CS400 is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and fit into any pedalboard setup. Its sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of live performances and studio sessions.

The Behringer CS400 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal is designed to enhance sustain and control dynamics in guitar playing. With its dedicated controls, this pedal allows users to achieve a smooth, consistent sound with increased sustain.

Key features of the CS400 include a level control to adjust the output volume of the sustained sound, a sustain control to determine the level of compression applied, and an attack control to shape the initial transients of the guitar’s sound.

In terms of quality, the Behringer CS400 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal does not disappoint. Despite its affordable price point, this pedal is built with durable materials that can withstand frequent use. The controls are sturdy and responsive, allowing for precise adjustments to achieve the desired sound.

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Versatile controls for customized sound
• Compact and lightweight design
• Durable construction

Cons:

• May require some tweaking to find the ideal settings for individual playing styles

The Behringer CS400 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal is a fantastic choice for guitarists seeking to enhance their sustain and control dynamics. Its affordability, versatility, and durability make it a reliable addition to any guitar rig.

Asmuse Analog Guitar Compression Pedal

The Compression Guitar Effects Pedal by Asmuse is designed to provide guitarists and bassists with the ability to enhance their playing by adding compression and sustain to their tone. It is suitable for both electric guitar and bass, making it a versatile tool for musicians of all genres and styles.

We are particularly fond of the Asmuse Compression Guitar Effects Pedal due to its pure analog circuitry, which ensures a high-quality and authentic sound. The pedal effectively compresses the dynamic range of the signal to create a smoother and more balanced tone, enhancing the sustain and allowing notes to ring out longer. This can greatly improve the overall sound and expressiveness of the instrument.

The primary purpose of the Asmuse Compression Guitar Effects Pedal is to provide guitarists and bassists with a means to control the dynamic range of their instrument, resulting in a more controlled and professional sound. The pedal features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry and incorporate into any pedalboard setup.

Key features of the pedal include an adjustable compression level knob, a true bypass switch, and a durable metal casing. The adjustable compression level allows users to fine-tune the amount of compression applied to their signal, while the true bypass switch ensures that the pedal does not alter the tone when not in use. The metal casing ensures the pedal’s longevity and durability, making it suitable for gigging musicians as well.

In terms of overall quality, the Asmuse Compression Guitar Effects Pedal delivers excellent performance and reliability. The pure analog circuitry provides a warm and natural compression effect, while the sturdy construction ensures durability and longevity.

Pros:

• Pure analog circuitry for high-quality sound
• Compact and lightweight design
• Adjustable compression level for customization
• True bypass switch to maintain original tone
• Durable metal casing for added longevity

Cons:

• May require some time to find the ideal compression settings

With its outstanding features, superior sound quality, and compact design, the Asmuse Compression Guitar Effects Pedal is a reliable choice for guitarists and bassists seeking to enhance their playing experience.

Yamaha FC5 Portable Keyboard Sustain Pedal

The Yamaha FC5 Compact Sustain Pedal for Portable Keyboards, black is designed to enhance the playing experience of guitarists and keyboardists. Whether you are a professional musician or a beginner, this sustain pedal is an essential accessory that adds expression and depth to your performances.

We love the Yamaha FC5 Compact Sustain Pedal for its exceptional quality and versatility. Whether you are playing a heavy rock ballad or a gentle classical piece, this pedal delivers a consistent and reliable sustain effect. Its compact size makes it convenient to carry and use with any portable keyboard or guitar.

The Yamaha FC5 Compact Sustain Pedal is specifically designed to add sustain to your music. It is compatible with portable keyboards and guitars, making it a great choice for both musicians on the go and those practicing at home. With its 5-foot cable and 1/4″ TS plug, it provides easy connectivity and flexibility during performances.

Key features of the Yamaha FC5 Compact Sustain Pedal include its durable construction, which ensures long-lasting use. It also features a non-slip base, which keeps it securely in place while you play. Additionally, its black color adds a sleek and professional look to your setup.

The Yamaha FC5 Compact Sustain Pedal is known for its excellent build quality and reliability. Yamaha, a trusted brand in the music industry, ensures that this pedal meets the highest standards of performance and durability. It is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use, making it a long-lasting investment.

• Compact size for easy portability.

• Compatible with portable keyboards and guitars.

• 5-foot cable for convenient connectivity.

• Durable construction for long-lasting use.

• Non-slip base for stability during performances.

• May require an adapter for some keyboards or guitars.

• Some users find the pedal’s sensitivity to be too high or too low for their preference.

With its exceptional quality, reliable performance, and compact design, the Yamaha FC5 Compact Sustain Pedal is an excellent choice for any guitarist or keyboardist. Whether you are performing on stage, recording in the studio, or practicing at home, this pedal will enhance your musical expression and take your performances to the next level.

TC Electronic Infinite Mini Sample Sustainer Pedal with Simple Controls and Small Size

The TC Electronic INIFINITE MINI SAMPLE SUSTAINER is a sample and sustain TonePrint pedal specifically designed for guitarists. It allows users to sample and sustain their guitar signal, creating an ambient pad to play over.

We absolutely love the TC Electronic INIFINITE MINI SAMPLE SUSTAINER for its exceptional performance and user-friendly design. It offers a unique and versatile feature set that will enhance any guitarist’s playing experience.

The purpose of the TC Electronic INIFINITE MINI SAMPLE SUSTAINER is to provide guitarists with a powerful tool for creating ambient and atmospheric sounds. With its infinite mode, users can add and sustain an indefinite number of layers that gradually morph together, resulting in a lush and immersive sound.

The pedal features a footswitch control that can be set to either latching or momentary with MASH, allowing for maximum control and flexibility. Additionally, the pedal offers simple controls to adjust the sustain level, fade in, and release/decay, making it easy to dial in the perfect sound.

One of the standout features of this pedal is its compatibility with the TonePrint app. By connecting the pedal to the app, users can access an expanded array of parameters and create their own custom TonePrints. This opens up a world of possibilities for experimenting with different sounds and creating unique tones.

In terms of overall quality, the TC Electronic INIFINITE MINI SAMPLE SUSTAINER certainly does not disappoint. It is built to last, with a durable construction that can withstand the rigors of regular use. The pedal also delivers exceptional sound quality, ensuring that every note is clear and defined.

Pros:

• Versatile sample and sustain functionality
• User-friendly controls
• Tiny footprint, perfect for pedalboards with limited space
• Compatibility with the TonePrint app for customization

Cons:

• Some users may find the pedal’s small size a bit challenging to operate during live performances

The TC Electronic INIFINITE MINI SAMPLE SUSTAINER is an excellent choice for guitarists seeking to add ambient and atmospheric elements to their playing. Its compact size, user-friendly controls, and exceptional sound quality make it a top contender in the world of sustain pedals. Whether you’re an experienced guitarist or just starting out, this pedal is guaranteed to take your playing to the next level.

JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal Low Noise Classic Ross Compressor for Electric Guitar & Bass- True Bypass

The JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal, also known as the JOYO JF-10, is primarily used as a compressor for electric guitars and bass guitars. It is designed to control the dynamics of the instrument’s sound, allowing for smoother and sustained notes.

We like the JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal because it offers a re-creation of the classic Ross compressor with very low noise. This feature ensures that the pedal does not introduce any unwanted sound or interference into the guitar signal, resulting in a clean and clear tone.

The JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal is an essential part of any guitar player’s rig. It allows for greater control over the sustain and attack of the instrument, enhancing the overall sound and playing experience.

Key features of this pedal include the “Sustain,” “Attack,” and “Level” knobs, which allow users to find their ideal tone. The “Sustain” knob adjusts the level of compression applied to the signal, while the “Attack” knob boosts the bottom end and levels off high-output pickups. The “Level” knob controls the overall volume of the signal.

The pedal also features true bypass, which ensures that when the pedal is turned off, the guitar signal passes through unaffected, maintaining the best possible tone quality. The aluminium-alloy housing with a classic stoving varnish finish provides durability and a visually appealing design.

The JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal is of high quality, with its low noise re-creation of a classic compressor. The pedal is built to last, with its sturdy aluminium-alloy housing and reliable components.

Pros of the JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal include its low noise design, true bypass functionality, and adjustable tone controls. It offers an affordable option for guitar players looking to enhance their sound.

However, one potential drawback of this pedal is that an additional power adapter is recommended for proper operation and to avoid unexpected noise. This may require an additional purchase for some users.

The JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal is a reliable and affordable option for guitarists and bassists seeking to enhance their playing experience. Its re-creation of a classic compressor, low noise design, and adjustable tone controls make it a valuable addition to any pedalboard.

Vintage-Style Fuzz Pedal by TC Electronic with Rich Tone and Endless Sustain

The TC Electronic HONEY POT FUZZ Vintage-Flavored Fuzz Pedal with Massive Wall of Tones and Miles of Sustain is primarily used for adding a heavy, distorted fuzz tone to the guitar. It is ideal for guitarists who want to achieve that classic alternative rock sound with a wall of thick, sustaining fuzz.

We are particularly fond of the TC Electronic HONEY POT FUZZ pedal because of its ability to produce a massive wall of tones and sustain, reminiscent of the classic alternative rock recordings. It allows guitarists to dial in a substantial amount of gain that makes the angels sing. The sustain produced by this pedal is almost endless, giving guitarists plenty of room to explore and express themselves.

The TC Electronic HONEY POT FUZZ pedal is designed to provide guitarists with a heavy and sustained fuzz tone. Its purpose is to enhance the sound by adding a rich layer of fuzz that can be used to create a wide range of tonal variations. With its vintage-flavored fuzz, this pedal brings a touch of nostalgia to any guitarist’s rig.

Some key features of this product include true bypass, ensuring maximum signal integrity and no degradation of tone when the pedal is not engaged. The pedal is also built with a metal chassis that is incredibly durable and able to withstand the rigors of the road.

The TC Electronic HONEY POT FUZZ pedal is known for its exceptional quality. With its solid build and “built-like-a-tank” metal chassis, it is built to last and withstand the demands of live performances and rigorous touring schedules. The pedal is designed to deliver high-quality tones and sustain consistently, allowing guitarists to rely on it during their performances.

Some pros of the TC Electronic HONEY POT FUZZ pedal include its ability to create a massive wall of tones, the extensive sustain it offers, and its solid construction. However, it is important to note that this pedal may not be suitable for those who prefer cleaner tones, as it is specifically designed to produce heavy fuzz effects.

The TC Electronic HONEY POT FUZZ Vintage-Flavored Fuzz Pedal with Massive Wall of Tones and Miles of Sustain is a top choice for guitarists looking for a reliable and versatile fuzz pedal that can add depth and sustain to their playing. Its vintage-flavored fuzz and ability to create an endless sustain make it a staple in alternative rock and other heavy genres.

Sondery Compressor Guitar Bass Effect Pedal

The Sondery Compressor Guitar Bass Effect Pedal is primarily used to enhance the sustain on a guitar or bass. It features three controls—Sustain, Level, and Attack—that allow users to adjust the compression ratio and response of their instrument.

We like the Sondery Compressor Guitar Bass Effect Pedal because it provides musicians with a classic analog compressor effect in a compact and stylish design. The art series SCR-9 features a beautiful art design on the top, giving it a unique and eye-catching look. Additionally, the diamond cut along the edge adds a touch of elegance to the pedal.

The Sondery Compressor Guitar Bass Effect Pedal is designed to enhance the sustain and compression of a guitar or bass. The Sustain control allows users to adjust the compression ratio, providing a longer sustain when the effect level is increased. The Level control adjusts the overall output volume, while the Attack control determines the response of the compression—lower levels result in a quick and tight response, while higher levels offer a slower and smoother response.

This pedal also features a True Bypass hardware switching, ensuring that there is no signal loss when the effect is not engaged. The ultra-low noise operation ensures a clean and clear sound. Made of reliable high-quality aluminum alloy, with an anti-skid rubber pad on the backside for stability and friction prevention, the Sondery Compressor Guitar Bass Effect Pedal is built to last. It is powered by an AC adapter (not included) and measures 3.7 by 1.9 by 1.66 inches / 94 by 42 by 48 millimeters.

The Sondery Compressor Guitar Bass Effect Pedal is crafted with high-quality materials, ensuring its durability and reliability. The aluminum alloy construction makes it sturdy, while the anti-skid rubber pad on the backside provides stability during performances. The LED status indicator allows users to easily see if the effect is engaged, and the user manual provides helpful instructions for operation.

• Classic analog compressor effect

• Compact and stylish design with art series SCR-9

• Adjustable compression ratio and response

• True Bypass hardware switching

• Ultra-low noise operation

• LED status indicator

• High-quality construction

• AC adapter not included

• Limited warranty of 1 year

Comparison of Sustain Pedals and Compressor/Sustainer Pedals

Alesis ASP-1 MKII Universal Sustain Pedal and Momentary Footswitch

• Portable and compact sustain pedal / momentary footswitch
• Flip the Polarity switch for universal compatibility
• Sturdy non-slip bottom and footpad
• Fast-acting, durable mechanism
• 5-foot hardwired cable with 1/4-inch plug

Behringer CS400 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal

• Compress/Sustainer Pedal with Level Sustain Controls Attack Tone

Asmuse Pure Analog Circuitry Mini Compression Sustain Pedal

• Mini compression sustain pedal for electric guitar and bass
• Equipped with pure analog circuitry
• Single control knob for adjusting compression level

Yamaha FC5 Compact Sustain Pedal

• Compact sustain pedal for portable keyboards
• 5-foot cable with 1/4″ TS plug
• Genuine Yamaha accessory

TC Electronic INFINITE MINI SAMPLE SUSTAINER

• Sample and sustain toneprint pedal
• Infinite mode for adding and sustaining layers
• Footswitch control can be set to latching or momentary
• Simple controls for adjusting sustain level and fade in

JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal

• Classic Ross compressor re-creation
• Low noise operation
• Controls for sustain, attack, and level
• True bypass for transparent tone

TC Electronic HONEY POT FUZZ

• Heavy sounding fuzz pedal with massive wall of tones
• Dial in massive amounts of gain for endless sustain
• True bypass for ultimate signal integrity
• Built-like-a-tank metal chassis

Sondery Compressor Guitar Bass Effect Pedal

• Classic analog compressor effect pedal
• Controls for sustain, level, and attack
• True bypass hardware switching
• Beautiful art design on top with diamond cut along the edge

Product	Description	Features	Price
Alesis ASP-1 MKII	Portable and compact sustain pedal / momentary footswitch	Universal compatibility, non-slip bottom, fast response	$29.99
Behringer CS400	Compress/Sustainer Pedal with Level Sustain Controls Attack Tone	Sustain and attack controls	$39.99
Asmuse Mini Compression Sustain Pedal	Mini compression sustain pedal with pure analog circuitry	Single control knob for compression level	$49.99
Yamaha FC5 Compact Sustain Pedal	Compact sustain pedal for portable keyboards	5-foot cable with 1/4″ TS plug	$24.99
TC Electronic INFINITE MINI SAMPLE SUSTAINER	Sample and sustain toneprint pedal	Infinite mode, latching or momentary footswitch control	$99.99
JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal	Classic Ross compressor re-creation with low noise	Controls for sustain, attack, and level	$59.99
TC Electronic HONEY POT FUZZ	Heavy sounding fuzz pedal with massive gain and true bypass	Built-like-a-tank metal chassis	$79.99
Sondery Compressor Guitar Bass Effect Pedal	Classic analog compressor effect pedal with sustain, level, and attack controls	True bypass hardware switching	$69.99

These products offer a range of options for sustain and compression effects. The Alesis ASP-1 MKII provides a portable and universal sustain pedal with a non-slip bottom, while the Behringer CS400 offers dedicated controls for sustain and attack. The Asmuse Mini Compression Sustain Pedal features pure analog circuitry for a natural compression sound, while the Yamaha FC5 is a compact sustain pedal specifically designed for portable keyboards.

For more advanced features, the TC Electronic INFINITE MINI SAMPLE SUSTAINER offers sample and sustain capabilities with adjustable layers and footswitch control, and the JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal is a classic Ross compressor re-creation with low noise operation. The TC Electronic HONEY POT FUZZ provides a heavy sounding fuzz effect with massive gain and true bypass, and the Sondery Compressor Guitar Bass Effect Pedal offers a classic analog compressor with sustain, level, and attack controls.

Prices range from $24.99 to $99.99, providing options for different budgets and needs.

Conclusion

After reviewing the eight products, it is clear that each one offers unique features and benefits for guitar and keyboard players seeking sustain and compression effects. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider when making a purchasing decision.

Alesis ASP-1 MKII Universal Sustain Pedal and Momentary Footswitch with 5ft Cable and Non Slip Bottom

This sustain pedal and footswitch combo from Alesis offers versatility and stability. However, some users reported issues with durability and build quality.

Behringer CS400 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal

The Behringer CS400 provides compression and sustain effects in a compact pedal. While it delivers on performance, some users mentioned concerns about its durability and sound quality.

Asmuse Pure Analog Circuitry, Mini Compression Sustain Pedal for Electric Guitar and Bass

Asmuse’s mini compression sustain pedal stands out for its pure analog circuitry and compact size. However, it may not be suitable for players looking for more customization options.

Yamaha FC5 Compact Sustain Pedal for Portable Keyboards

Yamaha’s FC5 offers a compact and portable solution for keyboard players who require sustain effects. It is well-built and reliable, but lacks versatility for use with other instruments.

TC Electronic INFINITE MINI SAMPLE SUSTAINER Sample and Sustain TonePrint Pedal

The TC Electronic INFINITE MINI offers sample and sustain effects in a small footprint. Its simple controls make it easy to use, but some users mentioned that it may not deliver the same level of customization as other pedals.

JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal Low Noise re-Creation Classic Ross Compressor

The JOYO Dynamic Compressor pedal aims to recreate the classic Ross compressor sound. It delivers on performance, but some users reported issues with noise levels.

TC Electronic HONEY POT FUZZ Vintage-Flavored Fuzz Pedal

The TC Electronic HONEY POT FUZZ is a vintage-flavored fuzz pedal that offers a wide range of tones and sustain. However, it may not appeal to players who prefer a cleaner sound.

Sondery Compressor Guitar Bass Effect Pedal

The Sondery Compressor pedal offers a unique design and controls for sustain and attachment levels. It may appeal to players who value aesthetics, but some users mentioned concerns about its durability.

Considering the drawbacks and specific needs of different players, a recommended choice for guitar and bass players seeking sustain and compression effects would be the JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal. It offers a low noise level, classic Ross compressor sound, and true bypass functionality. This pedal would be suitable for both beginners and experienced musicians looking for a reliable and affordable option for their guitar or bass setup.