The Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini and Harley Benton ministomp Green Tint are two compact overdrive pedals that produce a high-quality sound. While the Green Tint is more affordable, the TS Mini has a better build quality and name behind it. Needless to say, both offer great value for money.
In the realm of budget-friendly mini overdrive pedals, two names have been causing waves – the Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini and the Harley Benton MiniStomp Green Tint. Both have become popular with guitarists worldwide, each offering a unique yet robust sound that appeals to various musical styles.
Today, I will be putting these two pedals head-to-head to determine which one reigns supreme. Also, you can check out our detailed video review of this comparison to see and hear them in action:
Review Overview
| Verdict | Both the Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini and the Harley Benton MiniStomp Green Tint are affordable and competent mini overdrive pedals. They are incredibly similar in design and sound. If budget is your primary concern, the Green Tint is a clear winner. However, if build quality takes precedence, the TS Mini stands out. Ultimately, it’s a matter of preference. |
| Pros | Both pedals offer excellent sound quality Compact designs save pedalboard space The Green Tint’s affordable price tag The TS Mini’s robust build quality Versatility with various musical styles |
| Cons | Less visible markers on tone and volume dials The Green Tint’s lower output level at standard settings Higher cost of the TS Mini The lack of a boost switch on the TS MiniThe Green Tint’s lighter build quality |
General Thoughts
The Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini is a stalwart in the guitar community and has been on the scene for decades, earning its stripes with renowned guitarists and enthusiasts alike. Its reputation precedes it, making it a beloved choice for many. On the other hand, the Harley Benton MiniStomp Green Tint has rapidly gained popularity for its impressive sound quality and affordable price tag.
Price-wise, the Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini does come with a higher tag, an understandable consequence of its prestigious reputation. Many guitarists are willing to shell out the extra cash for the name and the assured sound quality that comes with it. However, this doesn’t mean we should write off the Green Tint just yet.
Design
When it comes to design, both pedals showcase similar controls and layouts, embodying a small and compact build that’s ideal for guitarists wanting to conserve pedalboard space. One drawback I noted for both pedals was the less visible markers on the tone and volume dials. This issue is solvable with a white marker or nail polish, but it’s worth mentioning.
The Green Tint takes a slight lead with its additional boost-to-normal switch, absent in the TS Mini. The footswitch design also differs, with the TS Mini utilizing a classic footswitch and the Green Tint featuring a soft switch which I particularly like.
Build Quality
Holding these two pedals in your hands, it’s quite clear which has the upper hand. Both sport a metal casing and are known for their solid build, but the TS Mini carries more weight, giving it a more robust feel. If, like me, you occasionally get a bit intense with your pedalboard in the heat of a performance, the Tube Screamer Mini’s sturdier build makes it a better choice.
Sound
The most crucial aspect for us musicians is, of course, the sound. The only significant difference I noticed was a level difference when all dials on both pedals were set to 12 o’clock, with the Harley Benton MiniStomp Green Tint lagging behind.
When it comes to tonal quality and color, once volume-leveled, they both produce a warm and smooth overdrive sound. The Green Tint exhibited a marginally more transparent smoothness, almost imperceptible unless you’re listening with high-quality headphones and a keen ear. In essence, both pedals deliver an excellent sound, nearly identical in tonal quality, making it a tie in my books.
Pricing
Now, the price is where things start to make sense. The Tube Screamer Mini, while affordable, doesn’t match the Green Tint’s budget-friendly price. If it were up to me, considering the similar tonal quality and overall sound, I’d opt for the Green Tint. However, if build quality is a priority for you, the TS Mini’s sturdiness might make the extra spend worthwhile.
Alternatives
In the world of overdrive pedals, there are numerous alternatives with varying price tags. For those seeking a mini pedal akin to these two, the Mooer Green Mile is a viable option. It comes close to the design, build quality, and sound of both the TS Mini and Green Tint. It also features a similar switch to the Green Tint’s boost-to-normal switch, labeled as hot-to-warm. In terms of price, it leans more towards the TS Mini’s range.
Verdict
All in all, both the Ibanez Tube Screamer Mini and the Harley Benton MiniStomp Green Tint are solid, compact overdrive options for guitarists looking to save space on their pedalboard. If the price is your main concern, the Green Tint is the obvious winner, producing a great overdrive sound that matches the TS Mini’s for a substantially more affordable price. However, if build quality is what you’re after, then the TS Mini is a clear choice.
