[2025 Edition] 7 Recommended Multi-Effects Processors for Live Performances!! [Mid-Range 30,000-80,000 Yen]

How is your sound creation going?

In recent years, the evolution of multi-effects processors has been remarkable. High-quality sound inherited from flagship models is now available in cost-effective units, making them immediately useful for live performances.

You want a high-performance multi-effects unit that can really shine on stage.

But your budget is limited…

For guitarists in this situation, here are 7 mid-range multi-effects processors (30,000–70,000 JPY class) with live performance versatility in mind.
When selecting these units, I considered the following five important factors for live use:

1. Convenience of switching tones
2. Operability and visibility
3. Number of switches
4. Presence of a pedal
5. Expandability

Let's explore a reliable unit for the stage by comparing the features of each model based on these criteria.

For those thinking, “I can’t spend that much…” or “What exactly is a multi-effects processor?” the following article introduces what a multi-effects processor is and offers some affordable models under 30,000 yen, so please use it as a reference!

⇒[Latest for 2025] 5 Recommended Guitar Multi-Effects Pedals for Beginners

ZOOM / G6

The ZOOM G6 is a standard model that condenses the sound of ZOOM’s flagship G11.
With its large color touchscreen and switches that change color depending on the effect status, its operability and visibility on dark stages are outstanding. The four footswitches can be flexibly assigned to turn effects on/off or switch presets, offering high freedom in tone changes during performance. The built-in expression pedal allows for wah wah or volume control without any external device.
In addition, it has a full set of connection terminals, including an effects loop, providing ample compatibility with external devices and live setups. Despite offering high-quality sound and multiple functions, it is also very lightweight and compact.

The author has written their personal impressions after using it on the following blog, which can serve as a reference!

⇒ Trying Out the ZOOM Multi-Effects “G6”!

■ Check out the sound here!

■ Recommended for:
Guitarists who prioritize operability and visibility on stage, and want a compact unit.

NUX / MG-30

The NUX MG-30 is a model that, in this price range, features dual DSPs, delivering high-resolution sound and strong performance.
Although the compact body has only three built-in switches, it comes with the “NMP-2 LITE” footswitch, allowing for up to five switches depending on the situation. Using the “Scene” function, you can switch the ON/OFF states of multiple effects within a single patch, offering highly convenient tone switching. It also includes send/return terminals, providing ample expandability for integrating external effects.
With a clear color display and a robust aluminum alloy body, it ensures reliable operation and portability for live use.

For more details, check out this column that goes deeper!

⇒ Hear from users: The charm of the powerful multi-effects NUX MG-30

■ Check out the sound here!

MOOER / GE250

The MOOER GE250 is a multi-effects unit highly praised for its live performance playability, with fast patch switching and seamless, uninterrupted sound.
Despite its compact body, the combination of five footswitches and CTL (control) functions allows for flexible handling of complex tone changes. The intuitive button layout and user interface that was modeled after compact pedal blocks makes operation and visibility excellent.
Equipped with MIDI input/output terminals, it can greatly expand the freedom of switch operations when linked with external MIDI controllers. The unit also features expression pedal terminals and an effects loop, offering excellent practicality in both expandability and durability.

■ Check out the sound here!

BOSS / GX-100

The BOSS GX-100 is a next-generation standard model that combines intuitive operability with BOSS’s high-quality AIRD preamp technology.
Its 4.3-inch color touch display allows for quick tone shaping and parameter adjustments on a dark stage without using a PC, offering excellent visibility. The eight footswitches can flexibly control effect ON/OFF and preset switching, making it suitable even for complex song arrangements. Equipped with an expression pedal, SEND/RETURN jacks, and MIDI input/output terminals, it provides both operational freedom and expandability. By connecting the “AMP CTL OUT” to an amplifier’s footswitch input, you can control amp channels and effect ON/OFF from the GX-100 itself—though compatibility should be checked beforehand.
This is truly a multi-effects unit designed to control your entire sound with a single device.

■ Check out the sound here!

HEADRUSH / Flex Prime

The HEADRUSH Flex Prime is designed for live performance with a focus on immediate responsiveness, featuring a large high-resolution touchscreen that provides outstanding visibility.
Its intuitive “touch, swipe, drag” operation feels like using a smartphone, allowing for instant adjustments and tone changes. The setlist function ensures smooth transitions between songs without mistakes. The unit comes equipped with three fully assignable footswitches with color LEDs and an expression pedal with adjustable tension.
Despite its compact size, it also includes an external effect loop (SEND/RETURN) and MIDI input/output terminals, making it a central piece in a live setup.
Praised not only for its sound quality, this model excels in operability, expandability, and practicality, striking a well-rounded balance for live performers.

■ Check out the sound here!

Line 6 / POD GO

The Line 6 POD Go is a cost-effective model that condenses the HX sound engine from the flagship Helix series into a compact, easy-to-use chassis.
Its unique “Snapshot” feature allows multiple parameter states to be switched instantly within a single preset, making it highly flexible for handling complex tone changes during a song. While it does not include MIDI terminals, it comes standard with an expression pedal and stereo SEND/RETURN jacks, offering ample expandability.
Additionally, it features an “AMP OUT” jack that outputs a signal split before the Cab/IR block, allowing separate control of Cab/IR for the mixer and amp. Despite its compact size, it also has a generous number of footswitches, enhancing live usability.
Ideal for guitarists who want Helix-level sound and operability in a portable format.

■ Check out the sound here!

HOTONE / AMPERO II

The HOTONE Ampero II is a cost-effective multi-effects processor that combines high-quality sound with extensive expandability as it features the latest modeling technologies “CDCM HD & F.I.R.E.”
Its 5-inch color touchscreen offers excellent visibility and intuitive control, allowing for quick tone adjustments and parameter edits even during live performances. The unit includes 5 footswitches, an expression pedal, stereo SEND/RETURN jacks, XLR stereo output, and 5-pin MIDI IN/OUT terminals.
Additionally, it features an XLR combo jack with a mic preamp, allowing it to function as a vocal effects processor with a completely independent effects chain from the guitar signal. Ideal for guitarists seeking professional-quality sound and flexible expandability without breaking the budget.

■ Check out the sound here!

In recent years, the market has seen an increase in compact, affordable, and highly versatile multi-effects units. Each model introduced here offers unique features and strengths, catering to different live, studio, or practice needs, budgets, and functional priorities. Whether you prioritize sound quality, operability, or expandability is up to you. Find the unit that best fits your music and take your next step on stage.

I hope this article helps you on your guitar journey. Enjoy your guitar life!