There’s a certain anxiety every gigging guitarist knows. It’s the moment the drummer clicks their sticks, the song kicks in, and your delay pedal, meticulously set to the practice room tempo, is now hopelessly out of sync with the live, adrenaline-fueled pace of the band. I’ve been there more times than I can count, awkwardly bending down mid-song, trying to tweak a tiny delay time knob while hoping nobody notices the chaotic, mismatched echoes. It’s a moment that can pull you right out of the performance. For years, the solution was either a complex, expensive MIDI setup or a bulky, pedalboard-hogging tap switch. The core problem is simple: maintaining rhythmic precision with time-based effects is crucial for a professional sound, but the tools to achieve it were often cumbersome or inaccessible. This is the exact predicament that led us to search for a better way, a tool that could give us precise, on-the-fly control without demanding a complete overhaul of our rig. We needed something small, reliable, and universally compatible—a simple solution to a persistent problem.
- Perfect for pairing with the EP103 Echoplex delay
- Adjustable tip/ring configuration
- Ruggedly built, road-ready construction
Before You Buy: A Guitarist’s Guide to Tap Tempo Switches
A tap tempo switch is more than just an accessory; it’s a key solution for unlocking the full potential of your delay, tremolo, and other time-based effects pedals. Its primary benefit is granting you the ability to sync the effect’s rhythm to the song’s tempo in real-time with a simple tap of your foot. This solves the age-old problem of pre-set delay times that don’t match a live band’s natural ebb and flow. It transforms a static effect into a dynamic, integrated part of your musical expression, allowing for everything from galloping U2-style dotted-eighth notes to slow, pulsing ambient swells, all perfectly in time. By adding a dedicated switch like the MXR EQ Effects Pedal M199, you elevate your playing from simply using an effect to truly controlling it.
The ideal customer for this type of product is a guitarist who already owns one or more delay or modulation pedals with an external tap tempo input jack. This player values precision, performs in a live setting, and wants to free their hands to focus on playing. It’s for the musician who has invested in a quality delay like an MXR Echoplex, a Strymon El Capistan, or an LR Baggs Align Delay and wants to maximize its functionality. Conversely, this product isn’t suitable for players whose pedals lack a tap tempo input, or for absolute beginners who are just purchasing their first delay pedal. In those cases, an all-in-one unit with a built-in tap tempo function might be a more streamlined choice. But for those looking to upgrade and refine an existing setup, a dedicated switch is a game-changer.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Pedalboard real estate is precious. A tap tempo switch needs to be compact enough to fit into a crowded setup without forcing you to remove other essential pedals. We measured the MXR M199 and its tiny footprint is one of its greatest assets, making it perfect for mini-boards like the Pedaltrain Nano where every square inch counts.
- Compatibility & Performance: This is the most critical factor. Pedals use different switching logic—some require a “Normally Open” (NO) switch, while others need “Normally Closed” (NC). Furthermore, the wiring of the TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) jack can vary. A truly versatile tap tempo switch must be able to adapt to these different standards to avoid being a useless brick with your specific gear.
- Materials & Durability: A footswitch lives a hard life on the floor. A rugged, all-metal chassis is non-negotiable for any piece of gear that will be stomped on night after night. We always look for high-quality components, from the casing to the switch mechanism itself, as this directly impacts reliability on stage. Plastic housings simply don’t survive the rigors of touring.
- Ease of Use & Feel: The switch should be simple to operate, providing a clear, tactile “click” so you can feel the tap, even with stage noise. While it requires no power or complex maintenance, the physical feel of the switch is important for accurate tapping. Some switches are silent, while others have an audible click, which can be a matter of personal preference.
Finding the right tool to control your effects can be just as important as the effects themselves. It’s about creating a seamless workflow that lets you focus on the music.
While the MXR EQ Effects Pedal M199 is an excellent choice for adding this control, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition and understand the broader landscape of effects. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Digital Delay/Plate Reverb 2 effects in 1 guitar effects pedal
- 4-Mode Delay and 4-Mode Reverb in One delay reverb Pedal
- [2-in-1 Pedal]: The 2-in-1 Revecho pedal seamlessly integrates meticulously chosen delay and reverb effects, offering musicians a powerful combination of tonal possibilities in a single, compact pedal
First Impressions: Unboxing the MXR EQ Effects Pedal M199
The first thing you’ll notice about the MXR EQ Effects Pedal M199 is the name, which is a bit of a misnomer. Let’s be perfectly clear: this is not an EQ pedal. It is a dedicated, single-button tap tempo footswitch. This is likely a categorization quirk from online retailers, but its true function is far more specialized and, for many, far more useful. Opening the minimalist box reveals a tiny, deceptively heavy silver rectangle. There are no manuals, no power supplies, no frills—just the pedal itself. The weight is immediately reassuring. It’s cold to the touch, crafted from a solid block of metal that feels like it could stop a bullet. This is classic MXR build quality, reminiscent of their iconic Phase 90 or Dyna Comp pedals. It feels utterly indestructible.
Flipping it over, four small screws hold the backplate in place. It’s inside that the M199 reveals its secret weapon, which we’ll dive into later. On the surface, it’s as simple as it gets: one high-quality footswitch and one 1/4″ TRS jack. The “pint-sized construction” mentioned in the specs is no exaggeration; it’s one of the smallest tap tempo switches we’ve ever tested, making it an instant contender for any guitarist struggling with a crowded pedalboard. The initial impression is one of purpose-built simplicity and rugged professionalism. It doesn’t try to be flashy; it’s a tool designed to do one job perfectly, and you can see its robust construction in detail online.
Advantages
- Universal compatibility with a vast range of pedals via internal DIP switches
- Extremely compact and lightweight, saving precious pedalboard space
- Rugged, all-metal construction built for the rigors of touring
- Simple, single-function design for foolproof operation on stage
Limitations
- The footswitch has a loud, audible “click” that may be distracting in quiet settings
- Requires a TRS (stereo) patch cable, which is not included and must be purchased separately
Deep Dive: Performance and Real-World Application
A tap tempo switch might seem like a simple device, but its performance and integration into your rig can have a profound impact on your sound and stage presence. We put the MXR EQ Effects Pedal M199 through its paces in our studio and on a live stage, connecting it to a variety of delay pedals to test its core promises of compatibility, durability, and convenience. What we discovered is a pedal that punches far above its weight class, offering a level of versatility that belies its simple exterior.
Universal Compatibility: The Magic of the Internal DIP Switches
The single most brilliant feature of the MXR EQ Effects Pedal M199 is its hidden superpower: a set of internal DIP switches. This is what separates it from countless other cheap, single-function tap switches. When we unscrewed the backplate, we found a small switch block that allows you to configure the pedal’s polarity (Normally Open or Normally Closed) and the wiring of the TRS jack (Tip to Sleeve or Ring to Sleeve). This might sound like technical jargon, but it’s the key to near-universal compatibility. Different pedal manufacturers, from Strymon to Boss to Electro-Harmonix, use different standards for their tap tempo inputs. A switch that works for one brand might not work for another.
We first tested it with an MXR EP103 Echoplex Delay, the pedal it’s specifically recommended for. As expected, with the switches in the factory default position, it worked flawlessly. The tapped tempo was precise and responsive. Next, we hooked it up to a Strymon El Capistan, a notoriously picky pedal when it comes to external switches. One user review mentioned it “did TheGigRig trick perfectly,” which is high praise. After a quick flip of one of the internal switches, the M199 was controlling the Strymon just as well as Strymon’s own (and much larger) tap switch. We then connected it to an L.R. Baggs Align Delay, confirming another user’s experience. In every case, we were able to find a DIP switch configuration that worked perfectly. This internal versatility means you can buy this one switch with confidence, knowing it will almost certainly work with your current delay pedal and any future pedals you might acquire. It’s an investment that grows with your gear collection, offering a level of future-proofing that is rare in such an affordable utility pedal.
Pedalboard Real Estate: The Power of the Pint-Sized Form Factor
For the modern guitarist, pedalboard space is the final frontier. As our collections grow, the battle for every square inch becomes intense. This is where the M199 truly shines. It is tiny. We placed it on a fully loaded Pedaltrain Nano, and it fit into a gap we previously thought was unusable. Its miniature footprint allows it to be squeezed into the tightest of spaces—next to a power supply, above a larger pedal, or right at the front of the board for easy access. Several users confirmed our findings, calling it the “perfect momentary switch for pedaltrain nano” and praising its “nicest form factor.”
This isn’t just a matter of convenience; it’s a matter of possibility. The small size of the MXR EQ Effects Pedal M199 might mean the difference between fitting that one extra modulation pedal on your board or having to leave it at home. During our testing, we found its slim profile allowed for more ergonomic placement than traditional, wider tap tempo switches. We could position it for comfortable access without disrupting the layout of our primary effects. This compact design philosophy is a massive advantage for musicians with fly rigs, mini-boards, or simply those who want a clean, efficient setup. The ability to add such crucial functionality without a significant space penalty is a design triumph that you can check out and see for yourself.
Built Like a Tank: Road-Ready Durability and Feel
MXR has a legendary reputation for building gear that can withstand the apocalypse, and the M199 is no exception. The moment you hold it, the cold, heavy feel of the brushed metal enclosure inspires confidence. This is not a flimsy, plastic-housed accessory; it’s a serious piece of professional equipment. We stomped on it, kicked it around the studio floor (gently, of course), and it didn’t even register a scuff. The hardware interface, a robust 1/4-inch jack, is securely mounted to the chassis, preventing the common issue of jacks becoming loose or breaking over time.
The footswitch itself has a very firm, positive action. This brings us to a point raised by one user and confirmed in our testing: the click is “slightly louder than I’d have thought.” In a live band setting, this is a non-issue and can even be a benefit, providing audible and tactile confirmation that you’ve successfully tapped in the tempo. On a loud stage, that positive feedback is invaluable. However, for studio recording in a quiet room or for an acoustic coffee shop gig, the mechanical “clack” of the switch could potentially be picked up by a sensitive microphone. For us, this is a minor trade-off for such a durable and reliable switch mechanism. The peace of mind that comes from knowing this pedal will not fail you mid-solo is well worth it. For any musician who plays live, this level of reliability is paramount.
What Other Users Are Saying
After our own extensive testing, we combed through feedback from other musicians to see if our experience with the MXR EQ Effects Pedal M199 was widely shared. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, echoing our main conclusions. One user celebrated its versatility, stating, “If you’re concerned with if it works or not, there are various dip switches inside the box which will convert the tap to which ever kind you’d like it to be.” This confirms our assessment that the internal switches are the pedal’s standout feature, solving compatibility headaches for countless players.
The compact size is another universally praised attribute. Comments like “it is perfect momentary switch for pedaltrain nano” and “I needed a very small tap tempo switch… and this did the trick perfectly” appear frequently, solidifying its reputation as a premier solution for crowded pedalboards. Its effectiveness with specific, popular pedals is also a common theme, with users confirming it “Works prefect with my echoplex pedal” and “Works well with my Lr baggs delay.” The only recurring critique we found aligns with our own observation regarding the switch’s noise level. One user noted, “Click is slightly louder than I’d have thought but it works!” This feedback paints a clear picture of a highly effective, incredibly versatile, and ruggedly built tool whose only potential drawback is a matter of situational preference.
How the MXR EQ Effects Pedal M199 Compares to the Alternatives
It’s important to frame this comparison correctly. The MXR EQ Effects Pedal M199 is a specialized accessory designed to enhance an existing pedal. The alternatives we’re looking at are all-in-one effects units that include delay and, in some cases, built-in tap tempo functionality. The choice isn’t about which is “better,” but about what problem you’re trying to solve.
1. FLAMMA FS22 Stereo Delay & Reverb Guitar Pedal
- The Flamma Ekoverb features 3 combinations of delay and reverb effects that consist of a Reverse Delay/Swell Reverb setting, Analog Echo Delay/Mod Reverb, and a classic Analog Delay/Shimmer Reverb...
- Power Supply Included: 9V DC (center negative). Recommend to use isolated/individual power supply. Sharing power supply with other pedals may cause unexpected noise.
- Tap Tempo & Freeze: The Flamma Ekoverb features a dedicated Tap Tempo footswitch, allowing users to create infinite sustain of effect sounds with its Freeze function.
The FLAMMA FS22 is a feature-packed digital workstation. It offers multiple delay and reverb types, stereo inputs and outputs, and advanced functions like Freeze and Trail On, plus its own built-in tap tempo. A musician would choose the FLAMMA FS22 if they are starting from scratch and want a wide palette of ambient sounds in a single, affordable unit. It’s an excellent choice for experimental players or those who need many options without building a large pedalboard. However, if you already own and love the sound of your high-end analog or boutique digital delay, the FS22 is redundant. The M199 is for the player who wants to add tap control to their chosen delay, not replace it.
2. Donner Yellow Fall Analog Delay Mini Guitar Effect Pedal
- [Analog Delay Pedal]: Reproduces the warm and natural classic vintage analog delay sound
- [Flexible Delay Pedal]: 20ms to 620ms of delay time; Adjustable delay level and feedback
- [Durable & Compact]: Aluminium-alloy classic, stable and strong; Mini size, pedalboard friendly
The Donner Yellow Fall represents a completely different philosophy. It is a pure, no-frills analog delay in a mini enclosure, celebrated for its warm, vintage-style repeats. Crucially, it has no tap tempo functionality and no input for an external switch. A player chooses the Yellow Fall for its specific analog character and simplicity. This pedal is not a direct competitor to the M199 at all. In fact, they exist in different ecosystems. The M199 is for controlling complex, rhythmic delays, while the Yellow Fall is for creating classic, atmospheric slapback and echo where precise timing is less critical than tonal warmth.
3. Donner Reverb Delay Pedal 2 in 1
- [2-in-1 Pedal]: The 2-in-1 Revecho pedal seamlessly integrates meticulously chosen delay and reverb effects, offering musicians a powerful combination of tonal possibilities in a single, compact pedal
- [Instant Precision Control]: Adjustable effect level, delay time, delay feedback, reverberation time, makes it suitable for every music genre
- [Tap Tempo]: The Tap Tempo function provides instantaneous control over delay time, allowing you to effortlessly sync your effects with the rhythm, making it an ideal choice for live performances and...
The Donner Revecho is perhaps the closest alternative in spirit. It combines two popular effects—delay and reverb—into one pedal and includes a dedicated onboard tap tempo footswitch. This is an ideal solution for a beginner or a player looking for a simple, all-in-one ambient effects solution for a small board. The primary advantage here is cost and simplicity; you get two effects and tap tempo in one purchase. The trade-off is a lack of specialization. The M199, when paired with a dedicated, high-quality delay pedal, will almost always offer a higher fidelity sound and more robust control than an all-in-one budget pedal. The choice is between the convenience of the Donner Revecho and the specialized, high-performance approach of pairing an M199 with a premium delay.
The Final Verdict: Is the MXR EQ Effects Pedal M199 an Essential Upgrade?
After extensive hands-on use and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the MXR EQ Effects Pedal M199 is an absolutely essential tool for any serious guitarist whose delay pedal has a tap tempo input. Its combination of a tank-like build, a minuscule footprint, and—most importantly—near-universal compatibility via its internal DIP switches, places it in a class of its own. It solves a real-world problem for gigging musicians elegantly and reliably. While the audible click of the footswitch might be a consideration for quiet studio use, it’s a non-issue for live performance and a small price to pay for such a robust and versatile device.
If you’ve ever struggled to keep your delay effects in time with a live drummer, or if you’re looking to unlock the full rhythmic potential of your favorite delay pedal, the M199 is not just a good choice; it’s arguably the best choice on the market. It’s an affordable, professional-grade upgrade that delivers immediate and tangible improvements to your sound and control. For its exceptional value, flawless performance, and brilliant design, we wholeheartedly recommend it. To take control of your timing and elevate your performance, you should absolutely check the latest price and add this indispensable tool to your pedalboard today.
Last update on 2025-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API