MXR Ten Band EQ Guitar Effects Pedal - Precise Tone Sculpting

Our review of the MXR Ten Band EQ finds it best suited to players who need fast, reliable tone shaping onstage or in the studio. The single biggest reason to buy is its blend of practical controls and rugged build: ten adjustable frequencies with input and output level controls let a guitarist or bassist correct room problems or carve tone quickly, and the aluminum housing with brighter LEDs and true bypass switching makes it a dependable stompbox for pedalboards. This review focuses on real-world usability, sonic impact, and the pedal's flexible routing options.

Key Features

• Ten-band equalization: Ten carefully chosen frequency sliders let you cut or boost specific bands up to 12dB to tune your instrument to any room or mix.
• Dual outputs: Two outputs let you run separate signal chains or split the EQ'd signal for parallel processing and added routing options.
• 18-volt operation: Higher voltage operation increases headroom and reduces the chance of distortion when boosting low or high bands aggressively.
• True bypass switching: True bypass preserves your dry signal when the pedal is off, keeping your chain transparent between uses.
• Improved visibility: Brighter LEDs provide high visibility even in direct sunlight, making it easy to see pedal status on bright stages.
• Noise-reduction circuitry: The updated electronics help keep hum and hiss low while sculpting tone, especially when making large boosts.

Who It's For

The Ten Band EQ is aimed at electric guitar and bass players who need detailed frequency control without resorting to a rack or complex software. Gigging musicians will appreciate the tough aluminum housing, visible LEDs, and true bypass for reliable onstage performance, while session players will value the quick corrective ability to tame room resonances or add presence to an acoustic rig.

Players who want simpler, single-knob tone shaping or those who need integrated digital presets might look elsewhere; this pedal is designed for hands-on, manual adjustment rather than preset recall. Also, if you require MIDI control or deep digital integration, a different model would be a better fit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Precise tone shaping across ten bands for surgical EQ moves or broad voicing changes.
• Two outputs provide real routing flexibility for parallel chains or separate amp feeds.
• Robust aluminum build and brighter LEDs make it stage-ready and durable.
• Noise-reduction circuitry and 18-volt headroom help maintain clarity when boosting.

Cons

• The manual sliders require hands-on adjustment and lack preset memory, which may slow repeated changes between songs.
• A small number of users report mixed experiences with LED brightness and noise, so results can vary by setup.

Specifications

Model Number	M108S
Frequency Bands	10 bands, adjustable
Maximum Boost/Cut	Up to 12dB
Power	18-volt operation for increased headroom
Switching	True bypass
Outputs	Two outputs for separate signal chains
Housing	Lightweight aluminum with brighter LEDs

Our Verdict

The MXR Ten Band EQ is a practical, value-minded tool for players who need accurate equalization and flexible routing in a roadworthy package. Its combination of ten bands, dual outputs, and improved noise handling makes it a smart buy for gigging guitarists and bassists who want fast, hands-on control over their tone without adding complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this pedal run two amps at once?
Yes, the pedal has two outputs so you can feed separate signal chains or send the EQ'd signal to two amps.

Does it require a special power supply?
It operates at 18 volts to increase headroom, so use an appropriate adapter or supply rated for 18V operation according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Will it add noise when boosting frequencies?
The updated noise-reduction circuitry reduces hiss and hum, though extreme boosts can still raise noise depending on your instrument and chain.