Overview of My Tech 21 FlyRig Collection
This article is a detailed review of my Tech 21 FlyRig collection, featuring the FlyRig RK5 v1, FlyRig 5 v1, FlyRig Cali, FlyRig Brit, and FlyRig 5 v2. Each FlyRig delivers a unique amp-inspired voice while sharing the same compact, pedalboard-free design that Tech 21 is known for.
FlyRigs are popular among guitarists who need portable, reliable multi-effects pedals for live gigs, rehearsals, fly dates, and direct recording. Despite their small footprint, these units provide professional-grade tones and intuitive controls.
Tech 21 FlyRig RK5 v1 Review (Richie Kotzen Signature)
The FlyRig RK5 v1 is designed around expressive playing and dynamic response. Developed with Richie Kotzen, this model focuses on touch sensitivity and amp-like feel rather than extreme gain.
The overdrive section reacts naturally to picking strength and guitar volume adjustments, making it ideal for blues, fusion, and classic rock. The boost and delay sections are voiced for lead work, allowing smooth solo transitions without external pedals.
Best for: Blues, fusion, expressive lead playing, dynamic guitarists
Key strengths: Touch sensitivity, musical overdrive, lead-friendly design
Tech 21 FlyRig 5 v1 Review
The FlyRig 5 v1 is one of the most versatile pedals in the FlyRig lineup. It delivers clean, crunch, and lead tones that work across multiple genres, making it a solid all-purpose solution.
This version is especially appealing for players who want a simple, no-nonsense setup. The effects are easy to dial in, and the overall tone remains balanced whether used with an amp or run direct into a PA or audio interface.
Best for: General-purpose gigs, rehearsals, recording
Key strengths: Versatility, simplicity, balanced tone
Tech 21 FlyRig Cali Review
The FlyRig Cali is tailored for modern high-gain guitar tones inspired by California-style amps. It offers tight low end, strong midrange focus, and plenty of saturation while maintaining clarity.
This FlyRig excels in heavier rock and metal settings where articulation under gain is critical. It also performs well for rhythm guitar, delivering punchy, controlled distortion without excessive noise.
Best for: Hard rock, metal, modern high-gain tones
Key strengths: Tight response, high gain, clarity
Tech 21 FlyRig Brit Review
The FlyRig Brit captures the character of classic British amps. It’s voiced for crunchy rhythm tones and smooth lead sounds with a pronounced midrange.
This model shines in band mixes, where its mid-forward tone helps the guitar cut through drums and bass. It pairs well with both single-coil and humbucker guitars, making it a strong choice for vintage-inspired rock tones.
Best for: Classic rock, blues-rock, British amp tones
Key strengths: Midrange presence, vintage character, mix-cutting tone
Tech 21 FlyRig 5 v2 Review
The FlyRig 5 v2 builds on the original FlyRig 5 with improved flexibility and refined voicing. It offers a more polished experience, making it easier to adapt to different playing styles and performance environments.
Compared to the v1, the v2 feels more modern and versatile, whether used for clean passages, crunchy rhythms, or lead tones. It represents the evolution of the FlyRig concept into a more refined all-in-one guitar solution.
Best for: Players needing flexibility and updated features
Key strengths: Improved usability, refined tone, adaptability
Final Thoughts on the Tech 21 FlyRig Lineup
Owning multiple FlyRig models highlights how Tech 21 has successfully created a modular tonal ecosystem within a single format. Each FlyRig maintains the same compact size and ease of use while offering a distinct amp-style voice.
From expressive blues tones to classic British crunch and modern high-gain sounds, this FlyRig collection covers nearly every real-world guitar application—without the complexity of traditional pedalboards.
For guitarists searching for portable multi-effects pedals, amp-style direct rigs, or minimalist live setups, the Tech 21 FlyRig series remains one of the most practical and tone-focused solutions available.