Recommended FX Pedal for beginner guitarist

[fpaul]

I'd go with the RAT.  One of my favorites with single coils and great with humbuckers also.  I built the Distortion + to get the Randy Rhoads sound and realized you also need an old Marshall and cabinet, turned up way too loud.  I know this is true because many many years ago I used a D+ with a friends Marshall.  The RAT won't get you there either but will be closer than the D+ in my opinion.

Of course if he has an old Marshall you may want the D+.  But his ears may start bleeding.