10 Best Looper Pedals 2025 in the UK

The BOSS RC-5 Loop Station stands out in the looper pedal category with its compact design and impressive features. Guitarists, bass players, and electroacoustic musicians will appreciate its high-quality sound and the flexibility it offers. With 99 phrase memories, this pedal provides ample space for creativity during live performances or practice sessions. Its built-in 57 rhythms are a nice touch, helping users keep time and enhance their looping skills.

One of the standout features is its optional MIDI control, which adds versatility for those looking to integrate the pedal into a larger setup. The signal format is digital, ensuring clarity and fidelity in sound reproduction. However, the pedal requires careful battery management; leaving cables plugged in can drain the battery quickly, lasting only about two hours. An alternative is using a 9-volt power supply, but this may be less convenient for some users.

Weighing 450 grams and with dimensions of 9.2 x 6.5 x 15 cm, the RC-5 is easy to transport, making it suitable for musicians on the go. The pedal features USB connectivity, which can be useful for transferring loops and backing them up. Unfortunately, it includes only one AAA battery, which might not offer the longevity needed for extended sessions. Users should consider purchasing additional batteries or a reliable power supply.

While the pedal ranks highly in customer reviews, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, it is essential to understand the limitations regarding battery usage and ensure proper management. For musicians wanting a modern looper pedal with great sound quality and memory options, the BOSS RC-5 is a commendable choice, albeit with some minor inconveniences.

The BOSS RC-505MKII Loop Station stands as a top choice for those seeking a powerful and flexible looping experience. Ideal for musicians who favor a hands-on interface, this tabletop looper offers five simultaneous stereo phrase tracks, each with dedicated controls and volume faders, allowing for intricate layering and performance management. Its 32-bit AD/DA and 32-bit floating-point processing provide exceptional sound quality, which is crucial for professional and live settings.

This model is rich with effects, boasting 49 Input FX types and 53 Track FX types, including innovations like Harmony and Electric FX, enhancing creative possibilities. Its input and track effects sections support four simultaneous effects, which can be quickly accessed through four banks, giving performers considerable flexibility during live shows. The RC-505MKII also includes a vast memory capacity with 99 memories, making it suitable for storing complex loops and settings. The new Mark Back function enhances undo/redo capabilities, proving beneficial for live performance adjustments. With over 200 onboard rhythm patterns and 16 drum kits, synchronization of loops is seamless, adding rhythmic depth to performances.

While it offers a USB interface for data backup and importing/exporting with BOSS Tone Studio, its tabletop design may not be suitable for those who prefer or require foot-controlled looping, as it lacks traditional footswitches. Additionally, at 1.8 kg and sizable dimensions, it’s not the most portable option, which might be a consideration for traveling musicians. The BOSS RC-505MKII is a feature-rich, high-quality looper for musicians who prioritize audio quality and creative control in a studio or stationary performance setting, though its size and format may not fit everyone’s needs.