Review: Sheeran Looper X Offers Professional Power at a Premium Price

The Sheeran Looper X, a flagship device developed in collaboration with the global pop superstar, aims to bring arena-grade looping technology to the solo performer. Weighing 16 pounds and featuring a robust, well-spaced pedalboard, the device is designed to handle complex, multi-layered arrangements. Its intuitive touchscreen interface and flexible routing options make it accessible for users to manage multiple inputs, including guitars, microphones, and synthesizers, effectively allowing a single musician to replicate the sound of a full band.

Despite its impressive build quality and user-friendly navigation, the Looper X faces significant challenges in justifying its $1,300 price tag. While the hardware is tactile and responsive, the software exhibits frustrating limitations, such as the inability to stop individual tracks—users are forced to mute them instead. Furthermore, the built-in effects are described as inflexible and lacking the professional polish expected at this tier, and the auxiliary input routing is notably restrictive.

For the dedicated solo performer, the Looper X represents a commendable effort to standardize a complex, highly personal art form. However, its quirks and high cost suggest it may struggle to compete with more specialized or versatile alternatives currently on the market. While it successfully captures the essence of Ed Sheeran’s signature touring setup, prospective buyers should weigh its ease of use against its functional constraints before investing in this premium piece of musical hardware.