A useful starting signal chain is tuner and pitch or filter effects first, compression and overdrive next, modulation after gain, then delay and reverb near the end. Treat the order as a starting point: BOSS notes that effects interact and that experimenting with your own rig is part of finding a sound you like.
There is no single pedal order that works for every guitar and amp, but a dependable first chain is tuner and pitch or filter effects, compression and gain, modulation, then delay and reverb. Connect one effect at a time so you can hear what the new pedal changes.
A starting order
- Tuner: Place it early so it receives the guitar signal before other effects color it.
- Pitch and filter effects: Try them before later processing so they track the input first.
- Compressor: Place it before gain stages to shape playing dynamics.
- Overdrive, distortion or fuzz: Add gain before time-based and modulation effects.
- Chorus, phaser or flanger: Try modulation after the main gain sound.
- Delay: Put it later so repeats follow the earlier effects.
- Reverb: Try it near the end of the chain to add a final sense of space.
This layout is a practical starting point, not a standard you must follow. BOSS describes pedal order as part of the way effects interact and recommends trusting your ears. A chorus before an overdrive can be more pronounced; a delay before gain may have its repeats colored by that gain stage. Try a swap with the same amp and playing level before deciding which version works for you.
Check the amp and connection path
If you use an amp’s effects loop, compare the amp manual’s routing diagram with the pedal makers’ instructions. The loop can place some time effects after the amp’s preamp stage, but not every amp has the same connections or controls. Do not assume every pedal accepts the same power supply or cable type.
Build the board around the pedals you actually use. Leave enough cable slack to move a pedal, keep power routing tidy and confirm that the board fits the floor or case where you use it. Our guitar amp guide covers amp types, while the guitars and bass category has more setup advice.
Official references
Common questions
What is the usual order for guitar pedals?
Start with tuner and pitch or filter effects, put compression and gain effects before modulation, and try delay and reverb later in the chain. It is a common starting point, not a fixed rule.
Should reverb go before or after distortion?
Try reverb after the gain pedal if you want the reverb tail to follow the distorted sound. Reverb before distortion can sound more saturated, so compare both at the level and volume you normally use.
Does a tuner have to be first?
Many players put the tuner first so it receives the direct guitar signal. If your setup has a different routing need, follow the pedal makers' connection instructions and listen for any change.