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What is it?
I’d argue that tone chasing has never been easier – or cheaper, for that matter. That said, as the guitar space is littered with many accessible multi-effects that promise the tonal world, while also being super affordable, it can seem too good to be true. Well, today we’re putting one of them under the microscope to see if it really is possible to nail great tone without putting a strain on your wallet. Enter the Harley Benton DNAfx GiT.
This compact stomp is loaded with a collection of 55 classic and modern high-quality amp models that the German-based brand claims to expertly capture the authentic sound, feel, and response of real tube amplifiers through innovative non-linear amp modeling technology. The DNAfx GiT also allows you to enhance your sonic palette even further with 26 meticulously crafted impulse response (IR) speaker simulations, plus the flexibility to incorporate your very own third-party IR files, if you happen to have them handy.
There’s a generous 151 effects, ranging from drives and compressors to modulation, delays, and reverbs – and even the capability to use up to nine types of effects simultaneously.
Rounding out the specs is a useful 80-second phrase looper, 40 built-in drum patterns, 10 metronome rhythms, and the obligatory integrated expression pedal, for all your wah and volume swell needs.
Specifications
- Launch price: $166/£125/€149
- Type: Multi-effects pedal
- Controls: Mode, Value, Master, Play, Save, EXP, Rhythm, Tap, System
- Features: 55 amp models, 151 effects, 26 IRs, built-in looper, and rhythms
- Connectivity: Aux-in, Input, Left/Mono, Right, Phones, USB, OTG, Power
- Bypass: True-bypass
- Power: 9V, 300mA
- Dimensions: 230 x 156 x 32.8 mm
- Weight: 1kg
- Contact: Harley Benton
Build quality
★★★★☆
My immediate impression is how reassuringly weighty the pedal feels in my hands. The combination of ABS and aluminum used for the housing doesn’t feel cheap. Instead, it’s impressively well-made and thoughtfully constructed.
The dials and footswitches catch my attention, too. The knobs turn with an effortless smoothness, while the soft rubber-style buttons provide a satisfying press. The footswitches feel notably robust, giving me confidence that they can withstand a good amount of stomping during use.
It’s worth mentioning that the unit comes with a power supply, but it’s of the European variety. Since I’m based in the UK, I need to use my own pedal power supply to test the product. While it’s not a deal-breaker, it would definitely be nice if Harley Benton included the correct PSU for the specific country they are shipping the pedal to.
Usability
★★★½
If you’re even slightly familiar with multi-effects units, you’ll find the DNAfx GiT incredibly easy to operate. Selecting sounds, editing tones, and even using the looper feels intuitive – there’s no need to reach for the manual here.
This unit is clearly designed with beginners in mind, and I think they’d have no problems operating this pedal, even if it were the first one they’d ever seen. The controls are well labeled, the dials are intuitive, and everything is placed exactly where you’d expect.
I notice a perceptible delay between selecting the sound and it becoming playable
However, there is a small hiccup when it comes to switching between patches. Many users note a slight delay when changing patches on both the Advanced and Core models, and it’s present here as well.
That said, the lag isn’t as pronounced as on other units and doesn’t affect all patches. But when I load a process-heavy preset with numerous effects, I notice a perceptible delay between selecting the sound and it becoming playable. This isn’t ideal for live performances and could become frustrating even during casual jam sessions at home.
Sounds
★★★☆☆
The lower to medium gain sounds are solid, and they feel dynamic enough under the fingers
When it comes to sounds, the DNAfx GiT presents a mixed bag. There’s a wide array of tones on display, many of which hit the mark, but they definitely require some tweaking. The lower to medium gain sounds are solid, and they feel dynamic enough under the fingers. The clean tones are surprisingly lush, boasting a nice amount of top-end sparkle and width when heard through headphones. However, it’s puzzling that nearly every patch comes with an overwhelming amount of delay added to the signal. I enjoy delay as much as any guitarist, but sometimes, less is more.
By turning off the delay or at least dialing it down, you significantly enhance your playing experience, and I highly recommend making that adjustment.
Shifting to the higher gain settings, this is where the DNAfx GiT reveals its budget roots. The tones can come off as fizzy and harsh, making them a bit too aggressive – definitely not the go-to pedal for metalheads.
That said, there’s a reliable clutch of usable tones waiting to be discovered within this pedal. With a little patience and dedication to experimenting, you’ll unlock a satisfying range of serviceable sounds. It’s all about putting in the effort to find what works.
Verdict
The Harley Benton DNAfx GiT may not claim the title of the best multi-effects pedal on the market, but it certainly delivers a solid selection of tones at an unbeatable price. This pedal boasts an intuitive operation, sturdy construction, and a wealth of fantastic sounds just waiting to be uncovered, provided you are willing to spend the time tweaking the presets.
While there can be a slight delay when loading effects-heavy patches, the overall experience is rewarding. For budget-conscious beginners, this pedal offers good value for money, making it a worthwhile choice for newbies fresh to the instrument who want to have fun experimenting with effects for the first time.
Guitar World verdict: Okay, the DNAfx GiT isn’t exactly groundbreaking, and certainly won’t win any awards for its high-gain tones, but at $171 (or £129), for 55 amp models, 151 effects, and a looper, it can’t be denied that it offers undeniable value for money.
|
Test |
Results |
Score |
|---|---|---|
|
Build quality |
Fairly well-made and robust. |
★★★★☆ |
|
Usability |
Simple and intuitive to use, but the lag on certain patches can’t be ignored.. |
★★★½ |
|
Sounds |
Definitely useable sounds inside, but you’ll need to tweak them. |
★★★☆☆ |
|
Overall |
Overall a good pedal, but it is let down by a few small problems |
★★★½ |
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