How to Use the PCH-1 Chorus — Settings & Tips

PCH-1 Chorus vs Competitors: Sound ComparisonThe PCH-1 Chorus is a compact chorus pedal aimed at players seeking classic modulation tones with modern usability. This article compares the PCH-1’s sound character, controls, and versatility against several notable competitors in the chorus pedal market: the Boss CE-2W, Electro‑Harmonix Small Clone, TC Electronic Stereo Chorus, and MXR M234 Analog Chorus. The goal is to give practical listening- and usage-oriented guidance so you can decide which pedal best suits your instrument, style, and rig.

Quick summary (sound personalities)

• PCH-1 Chorus: Warm, smooth, slightly bright; modern clarity with classic lushness.
• Boss CE-2W: Vintage, thick, slightly darkened analog warmth.
• Electro‑Harmonix Small Clone: Dense, watery, strong modulation character.
• TC Electronic Stereo Chorus: Clean, versatile, studio-grade clarity; wide stereo image.
• MXR M234 Analog Chorus: Warm, punchy, simple and musical analog voice.

Design and control layout (impact on sound shaping)

PCH-1: Typically includes Rate, Depth, Mix (or Level), and sometimes a Tone or Hi‑Cut control. The controls give straightforward access to chorus amount and modulation speed while preserving signal clarity. A dedicated Tone/Hi‑Cut (if present) helps tame brightness for amp-forward rigs.

Boss CE-2W: Emulates classic CE-1/CE-2 flavors with Rate and Depth. Fewer controls but the character is baked into the circuit—easy to dial classic sounds quickly.

Small Clone: Simple two-knob layout (Rate, Depth) with an internal trim for depth. Its simplicity encourages experimentation with the two parameters and often yields strong, characterful results without fuss.

TC Electronic Stereo Chorus: Often features Rate, Depth, FX Level, Tone, and programmable presets or a tap tempo/expansion. The extensive control set allows precise sculpting and stereo imaging.

MXR M234: Usually Rate, Depth, and a Level or Tone control. It focuses on analog-style warmth and musicality without extra frills.

Core sound comparison

• Tonal Weight and Warmth

  • PCH-1: Balanced warmth—not overly dark, retains presence. Works well with both clean and slightly overdriven tones.
  • CE-2W: Warm and thick, leaning darker than the PCH-1.
  • Small Clone: Thick and wet, sometimes perceived as more modulated/wobbly.
  • TC Stereo: Neutral and clear, less inherent warmth, more transparent.
  • MXR M234: Warm and punchy, close to CE-2W but with its own mid punch.

• Modulation Character (LFO shape, depth feel)

  • PCH-1: Smooth sine-like LFO with even modulation; adjustable depth feels musical without warbling.
  • CE-2W: Rounded, classic LFO—characterful and slightly slower-feeling.
  • Small Clone: Strong, sometimes chorus/vibrato borderline at high depth — very pronounced character.
  • TC Stereo: Clean, precise LFO with options for wide/stereo spread.
  • MXR M234: Classic analog LFO flavor—musical and responsive to dynamics.

• Stereo Imaging

  • PCH-1: Likely offers a modest stereo spread (stereo models) with a natural width.
  • CE-2W: Mono-focused vintage tone; stereo emulation in some modes.
  • Small Clone: Traditionally mono; extremely focused center image.
  • TC Stereo: Wide stereo field — excellent for studio and ambient rigs.
  • MXR M234: May include stereo outputs on some versions; moderate spread.

• Presence with Distortion/Overdrive

  • PCH-1: Maintains clarity and definition with drive; chorus sits around the signal without clouding.
  • CE-2W: Thickens distortion—can get muddy if pushed too far.
  • Small Clone: Can become very watery with heavy gain.
  • TC Stereo: Stays articulate with gain stages; excellent for layered textures.
  • MXR M234: Generally sits well with overdrive; adds analog richness.

Use-case recommendations

• For vintage, lush chorus tones (70s/80s): Boss CE-2W or MXR M234.
• For distinct, characterful modulation (indie, shoegaze): Electro‑Harmonix Small Clone.
• For clean, studio-grade, wide stereo chorus (ambient, pop): TC Electronic Stereo Chorus.
• For a versatile, modern classic voice that balances warmth and clarity: PCH-1 Chorus.

Practical listening tests to try

1. Clean single‑coil strat — slow rate, medium depth: compare how each fills the space without losing attack.
2. Humbucker neck — slow rate, high depth: check warmth vs. muddiness.
3. Overdriven amp — medium rate, low depth: observe clarity and interaction with gain.
4. Stereo rig — max depth and rate sweep: evaluate width and movement.

Final thoughts

The PCH-1 Chorus sits between classic analog voice and modern clarity: it won’t be as vintage-dark as the CE-2W or as wildly characterful as the Small Clone, but it offers a versatile, musical chorus that performs well across clean and driven tones. If you want wide stereo textures and studio-grade flexibility, the TC Stereo is the stronger choice; if you want a distinct vintage identity, pick CE-2W or MXR M234. Choose the PCH-1 when you want a reliable, balanced chorus that translates across styles and rigs.