Josh Scott, the creator of the YouTube channel JHS Pedals, is one of the most influential figures in the guitar pedal world. His videos are known for their in-depth reviews and educational content. However, Scott has also been criticized for his role in driving up the prices of certain guitar pedals.

Josh Scott’s videos have undeniably become a cornerstone of the online guitar pedal community. The educational content he creates has empowered guitar enthusiasts, beginners, and even seasoned musicians, offering a deeper understanding of pedal functionalities, tones, and applications. His articulate presentations demystify complex pedal features, making them accessible to a wider audience. As a result, viewers are better equipped to make informed decisions when purchasing guitar pedals, leading to a more fulfilling musical experience.

Yet, this enlightening journey is not without its shadows. Scott’s influence over the market cannot be underestimated. When he highlights a pedal in his videos, it tends to trigger a surge in demand for that particular product. Given his vast viewership and credibility in the community, this demand influx inevitably exerts upward pressure on pedal prices, especially for those already in high demand. Pedal manufacturers experience a surge in orders, and the law of supply and demand dictates the outcome: prices escalate.

The Other Side of the Argument

Scott’s supporters argue that he is not to blame for the rising prices of guitar pedals. They say that the market is simply responding to increased demand. They also point out that Scott often features pedals that are already popular and in high demand.

In a 2023 interview with Reverb.com, Scott said that he is “aware that some people have accused him of driving up prices, but that he doesn’t think that’s fair.”

“I’m just making videos about pedals that I like,” he said. “I’m not trying to manipulate the market or anything like that.”

Scott also said that he believes that the rising prices of guitar pedals are due to a number of factors, including the increasing popularity of guitar music and the growing number of guitar pedal manufacturers.

Conclusion

So, what’s the verdict? Is the JHS guy a valuable info source or a market ruiner?

There is no easy answer to this question. It ultimately depends on your perspective. If you’re looking for a valuable resource for information about guitar pedals, then the JHS Pedals channel is a great place to start. However, if you’re on a budget, you may want to be careful about buying pedals that have been featured on the channel, as they may be more expensive than they’re worth.

Remember that the JHS Pedals channel is just one of many resources available to guitarists. There are many other websites and YouTube channels that provide information about guitar pedals. So, it’s important to do your own research and compare prices before you make a purchase.

Additional Thoughts

I think it’s important to note that Scott is not the only person who is driving up the prices of guitar pedals. The growing popularity of guitar music and the increasing number of guitar pedal manufacturers are also playing a role.

However, Scott’s videos do have a significant impact on the market. When he features a pedal in one of his videos, it often leads to a surge in demand for that pedal. This can drive up prices, especially if the pedal is already in high demand.

I think it’s also important to note that Scott does not benefit directly from the rising prices of guitar pedals. He does not sell pedals himself, and he does not receive any royalties from the manufacturers of the pedals that he features in his videos.

In conclusion, it’s reasonable to say that Scott’s videos have a mixed impact on the guitar pedal market. They are a valuable resource for information, but they can also drive up prices. It’s up to each individual guitarist to decide whether or not they are comfortable with this trade-off.