Best mini expression pedals

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Steve Romanoski
Last Updated: Oct 11, 2022

In this article, we've listed the best mini expression pedals you can find out there. We've found about 69 of mini expression pedals and selected the 22 top options by ZINGYOU. We took the time to do a thorough research and point out some advantages and disadvantages of each of the options we suggest below so that you don't have to dive deep into the topic and spend endless hours hoping to find the perfect model on your own.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Electric Guitar Distortion Effect Pedal
#TOP 1
Electric Guitar Distortion Effect Pedal
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Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4) Bundle
#TOP 2
Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4) Bundle
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Boss EV-30 Dual Expression Pedal
#TOP 3
Boss EV-30 Dual Expression Pedal
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Top 22 Best mini expression pedals Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

Electric Guitar Distortion Effect Pedal

Bnineteenteam

Features

  • DURABLE TO USE:Distortion effect pedal is full metal shell, rust and corrosion resistant, sturdy and durable to use.High gain distortion, low power consumption.
  • HIGH QUALITY:Guitar distortion effect pedal,compact size and full metal shell, portable and durable.
  • FOR METAL STYLE: Excellent dynamic feedback is great for playing a variety of metal style songs, especially rhythm guitars.
  • WELL FUNCTION:The tone knob to meet the effect of the different amplifier adaptation.High degree distortion degree of metal, stable to solo, has strong expression with dynamic echo sound.
  • TRUE BYPASS:Distortion effect pedal with true bypass provide transparent tone, the LED light indicates the working state of the effector.
#TOP 2

Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4) Bundle

blucoil

Features

  • INCLUDES - Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4). Blucoil Premium 10-Foot Instrument Cable with 1/4" Straight Connectors and PVC Shield for Guitars and Amps. 2-Pack of Blucoil Right-Angled Patch Cables for Effects Pedals. 4-Pack of Blucoil Celluloid Guitar Picks with 0.71mm Gauge (Assorted Colors). 5-Pack of Blucoil Reusable Velcro Cable Ties. Blucoil 5-Foot Audio Aux Cable.
  • ENSURES SMOOTH OPERATION - The mini pedal works smoothly and does not weaken or color your tone. Dunlop recommends placing DVP4 first in your signal chain.
  • DOESN'T NEED POWER SUPPLY - Say goodbye to long adapter cables and short-lived batteries! The Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4) is completely passive.
  • OFFERS A 2-IN-1 DEVICE - The Dunlop DVP4 Volume X Mini features an AUX output that can be used for a tuner or expression pedal. You can use DV94 for controlling other effects pedals.
  • PROVIDES PRECISE CONTROL - You can set the minimum control value for the expression pedal with an internal pot (50 kOhm trimpot). The rocker tension can be adjusted to match your personal preference.
#TOP 3

Boss EV-30 Dual Expression Pedal

BOSS

Features

  • 2-channel Aluminum Expression Pedal with 1/4" TRS Cable
#TOP 4

Jim Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4)

JIM DUNLOP

Features

  • Low Friction Band-Drive for smooth, durable
  • Controls volume levels and FX parameters
  • Lightweight and pedalboard-friendly
  • Half the size of the DVP3
  • AUX output for switchable tuner/expression functionality
#TOP 5

Moog EP-3 Expression Pedal

Moog Music Inc.

Features

  • The EP-3 is a robust and reliable universal expression pedal designed to work with any keyboard, synthesizer, or pedal with an expression or CV input
  • Product Code: ACCEP003
  • Perfect weight and balance, along with superb craftsmanship
  • It features a newly designed cam system with extremely smooth performance and durability, a polarity switch that ensures compatibility with non-Moog products, a scalable output knob for specifying musical range, and a ¼” output jack on the front panel that allows you to use the supplied 6.5’ cable, or select a different cable length that perfectly suits your needs
  • Brand: MOOG
#TOP 6

Dunlop DVP4 Volume X Mini Pedal Bundle

MXR

Features

  • AUX output for switchable tuner/expression functionality
  • Bundle includes 2 6-inch right angle patch cables and Dunlop pack of 12 picks
  • Half the size of the DVP3
  • Controls volume levels and FX parameters
  • Low friction band-drive and adjustable pedal resistance
#TOP 7

Zoom FP-02M Expression Pedal

Zoom

Features

  • Works with a variety of Zoom effects processors
  • Country of Origin: China
  • New version with metal construction for greater durability
  • Compatible with Zoom 500 Series, 234, 323, 3030, 1010, 2100, MRS1044 and many other pedals and Zoom units
#TOP 8

Jim Dunlop DVP4 Volume (X) Mini Pedal

JIM DUNLOP

Features

  • Internal pot allows you to set a minimum parameter value for expression pedal.
  • INCLUDES - Jim Dunlop DVP4 Volume (X) Mini Pedal for Electric Guitars. 2-Pack of Patch Cables.
  • Low Friction Band-Drive.Adjustable pedal resistance.Aluminium housing.Internal trim potentiometer for setting the minimum volume.
  • Controls volume levels and FX parameters.For guitar, bass or other instruments.
  • Dunlop mini pedal is Ultra-compact volume and expression pedal for electric guitar.Aux output combines tuner and expression connectivity.
#TOP 9

M-Audio EX-P | Universal Expression Pedal

M-Audio

Features

  • Universal Compatibility - Built-in and discretely located polarity switch for compatibility with most keyboards, controllers, synthesisers and effect devices with an expression pedal input
  • Control Anything - Manipulate any MIDI assignable control or parameter in real time, including volume, modulation, panning, filter sweep and more
  • Robust, Reliable - Secure, robust and hardwired 1/4-inch 18 m TRS cable fits industry standard expression pedal inputs
  • Express Yourself - Expand and unlock the full creative scope of your controller or keyboard with M-audio's universal EX-P expression pedal
  • Compact, Lightweight Footprint - Moulded construction provides robust build, portability and performance durability; textured foot-rest for non-slip use and smooth, wide-angled action for precise expressive capability
#TOP 10

AKAI Professional Expression Pedal – Lightweight

Akai Professional

Features

  • Never miss a note - With textured footrest for non-slip use and wide-angled action for precise expressive capability
  • Compact, lightweight design - Molded construction provides robust build, portability, durability, and reliability
  • Play your way - Manipulate MIDI parameters with Expression Pedal, including volume control, effects, modulation, panning, filter sweep and more
  • Road Ready - 1.8m cable with 1/4” TRS jack hardwired to the EX-P chassis adds further assurance of reliable performance
  • Expand your MIDI capabilities - The universal expression pedal connects to MIDI controllers, digital piano, keyboard, synthesizer, or guitar effect, expanding your MIDI capabilities
  • Versatility - With just a flick of the discrete polarity switch you can reverse the type of data sent for third party compatibility with your instruments
#TOP 11

MeloAudio EXP-001 Volume Expression Wah Bass Guitar Effects Pedal l

MeloAudio

Features

  • The EXP-001 Pedal is compatible with any model or brand of effect that features a stand TRS expression input, such as TS MEGA, MIDI COMMANDER, Fractal AXE Fx2, KPA(Kemper profiling amps), ZOOM G1 G2 G3 G5 G7, Line 6 HX Stomp,Digitech RP360, etc
  • Small size for better placement on the effector mounting plate
  • The pedal shaft is designed with damping. When it is not stepped, it will stay at the specified angle
  • The EXP-001 Pedal delivers precision response and smooth action in a durable cast aluminum housing. Rubber pedal for comfortable play and non-slip action
  • Ultra-smooth pedal movement for the utmost in comfort and control.
#TOP 12

Hotone Wah Active Volume Passive Expression Guitar Effects Pedal Switchable Soul Press II 4 in 1

HOTONE

Features

  • LEDs shows Guitar pedal status in real time
  • Active Volume Control for Keeping Lossless Tone Guitar Effects Pedal
  • 100% Analog Guitar Volume/Wah/Expression Pedal, Switchable Volume/Wah control by the Footswitch
  • True Bypass, Independent EXP Out and Tuner Out, 9V DC or 9V Battery Power Supply(Not Incl)
  • Classic Wah-Wah Tone with WARM & CLASSIC Range Guitar Pedal, Q & TONE controls
#TOP 13

Hotone Volume Expression 2 in 1 Guitar Effects Pedal Passive EXP Ampero Press Guitar Pedal

HOTONE

Features

  • Passive Design - No Power Supply needed
  • Independent Volume and Expression guitar pedal Output Jacks
  • Passive Volume /Expression guitar pedal Control 2 functions in 1 Pedal
  • Works with aWorks with a variety of Instruments and Devices variety of Instruments and Multi effects pedal/guitar pedals
  • High Quality Potentiometer ensures Precise Response and Long Life
#TOP 14

Line 6 EX-1 Expression Pedal

Line 6

Features

  • 2 preset versions
  • Durable construction
  • Pitch control
  • Custom wahs
#TOP 15

Nektar Expression Pedal (NX-P)

Nektar

Features

  • Compatible with most expression pedal sockets
  • Sensitivity Pot
  • Rubber feet for solid floor-grip and rubber upper contact surface
  • Universal expression pedal
  • Polarity switch - works with all keyboards
#TOP 16

Fender Tread-Light Volume/Expression Pedal

Fender

Features

  • Switchable Internal Buffer
  • Adjustable 3-Way frequency selector
  • Under-treadle LED
  • Analog Volume/Expression Pedal
#TOP 17

SONICAKE Vexpress Passive Volume & Expression EXP Pedal

SONICAKE

Features

  • Working without Battery or Pedal Power Supply
  • Automatically Detect the Functionality (Volume or EXP Control)
  • Lightweight & Comact Design for easily Taking it Anywhere
  • Passive Volume Control/Expression Control 2 functions in 1 Pedal
  • Working with Guitar, Bass, Keyboard, Synthesizer, Workstation, Controller, etc.
#TOP 18

Hotone Soul Press 3 in 1 Mini Volume/Wah/Expression Effects Pedal

HOTONE

Features

  • Active volume mode for keeping lossless tone
  • 3 in 1 pedal (WAH/volume/expression)
  • Sound based on the original crybaby WAH pedal
  • Adjustable control range (bottom value)
  • True bypass and extreme compact size and cool LED lights
#TOP 19

MOOER Expline Guitar Expression Pedal

MOOER

Features

  • Micro sized expression pedal providing smooth and precise control
  • Output 1 and Output 2 are wired differently from one and other to ensure good operation with equipment from many different brands.
#TOP 20

Valeton Surge EP-2 Mini Expression/ Passive Volume Guitar Effect Mini Pedal (EP-2)

Valeton

Features

  • Smooth taper responds to various parameters with precision
  • Automatically detects output source (EXP/ Vol function)
  • Works without battery or power adapter
  • 2 in 1 functionality (Volume/Expression)
  • Works with guitar, bass, and a wide range of other musical instruments
#TOP 21

DigiTech Guitar Volume Pedal (DOD-MiniVOL-U)

DigiTech

Features

  • Gear drive for Reliable performance
  • Ultra compact size has same footprint as most pedals
  • The Mini Volume features a high-quality 500kΩ potentiometer making it perfect for any volume pedal application.
  • Treble bleed so high frequencies are maintained at lower volume
  • The new passive DOD Mini Volume Pedal is just the right size for your pedal board, and your wallet.
#TOP 22

Digitech Guitar Expression Pedal (K-00691991006555)

DigiTech

Features

  • Ultra compact size has same footprint as most pedals
  • 3-Position multi resistance for wide range of compatibility
  • Gear drive for Reliable performance
  • Linear 25kΩ/10kΩ potentiometer
  • The Mini Expression Pedal features a TRS (25kΩ)/TS (10kΩ)/RTS (25kΩ) selector, making it flexible to work with most gear with expression pedal inputs.

Selecting the Perfect mini expression pedals: The Buyer's Guide

Is an expression pedal the same as a sustain pedal?

The sustain pedal contains a momentary switch, while the expression pedal is a potmeter.

Can I use TS cable for expression pedal?

You can use any 1/4" TRS to 1/4" TRS patch cable to conect an expression pedal to the CTRL port.

Can you use a Boss FV 50 as an expression pedal?

Stereo volume pedal Additionally, the FV 50 L also functions very well as an expression pedal. Thanks to its low-impedance design, it is also a great choice for guitarists who want to control the master volume with a pedal in the effects loop.

How do I use pedals in MainStage?

In MainStage, do one of the following:
  1. Drag the stompbox that you want to insert from the Pedal Browser to the appropriate Pedal area position. ...
  2. Make sure that no pedal is selected in the Pedal area, then double-click a stompbox in the Pedal Browser to add it to the right of all existing effects in the Pedal area.

How does an expression pedal work?

How does an Expression Pedal work? An expression Pedal works by feeding a control voltage to a device – such as a synthesizer or a guitar. This voltage is then read by the device and then used to change one of the parameters. The parameter could be anything from delay time on a delay pedal to the depth of a Chorus.

Is there a USB expression pedal?

UP4 is a USB-Midi expression pedal... with a USB plug! It's internal software allows channel selection (1~16), CC number (11, 4, 2, 7) and response curve via DIP-Switches. It's "class compliant" and doesn't require any driver or power in order to work.

How do you date a Cry Baby wah pedal?

As Thomas commenced production in 1957, adding 57 to the first two digits of the serial number should give you the year of production.

Do expression pedals work with any pedal?

It's important to remember that expression pedals can only be used with devices that have a dedicated expression pedal input and/or have a MIDI control input.

Editor's Notes

To compile this list of the top mini expression pedals we spent 64 hours to read over 717 customer reviews carefully. As a result, our editors chose the 22 products most people truly liked. They boast of the rating of 191, on average, and cost around $1711.

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Written by

Steve Romanoski

Steve loves music. Steve Romanoski and his wife live in Alaska. They are always on the go, exploring new places and trying out new products (especially those which can help them enjoy the great musics even more). When he's not writing about products, Steve Romanoski enjoys reading books about history and science. He likes to think of himself as a renaissance man, but his wife would probably say that he's just a big kid at heart.