Best volume pedals for guitar

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Steve Romanoski
Last Updated: Sep 26, 2022

In this article, we've listed the best volume pedals for guitar one can find out there. We've analyzed about 53 of volume pedals for guitar and selected the 34 top options by PAMPET, Myers Pickups, Roland, Bietrun. We took the time to do a thorough research and point out some pros and cons of each of the options we suggest below so that you don't have to dive deep into the topic and spend endless hours searching for the ideal model on your own.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Behringer FC600 V2 Expression Pedal
#TOP 1
Behringer FC600 V2 Expression Pedal
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Briskdrop Dunlop DVP3 Volume (X) Pedal Bundle
#TOP 2
Briskdrop Dunlop DVP3 Volume (X) Pedal Bundle
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Lehle Mono Volume Pedal
#TOP 3
Lehle Mono Volume Pedal
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Top 34 Best volume pedals for guitar Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

Behringer FC600 V2 Expression Pedal

Behringer

Features

  • Rubberized Footboard
  • Adjustable Tque
  • 2-in-1 Volume/Expression Pedal with Die-cast Metal Body
  • Tuner Output
  • Reversible Polarity
#TOP 2

Briskdrop Dunlop DVP3 Volume (X) Pedal Bundle

Briskdrop

Features

  • Bundle includes 2 instrument cables and 2 patch cables
  • Low Friction Band-Drive for ultimate durability
  • Pedalboard-friendly housing
  • Controls volume and FX parameters
  • Fully adjustable rocker tension
#TOP 3

Lehle Mono Volume Pedal

Lehle

Features

  • Mono Volume Pedal
#TOP 4

Jim Dunlop Volume (X) 8 Pedal (DVP5)

JIM DUNLOP

Features

  • 8'' length for perfect alignment with Metro, Classic, Novo, and Terra Series pedalboards
  • Designed with Pedaltrain for tight layouts and tidy routing of cords
  • Patented Low Friction Band-Drive for long-lasting performance
  • Features Volume, FX, Output, and Tuner jacks
  • Create incredibly smooth volume swells or control your favorite FX parameters
#TOP 5

TC Electronic SPARK MINI BOOSTER Ultra-Compact Booster Pedal

TC Electronic

Features

  • Level control knob gives you versatility to go for a pristine boost or drive your amps to peak performance
  • Ultra-compact booster pedal with PrimeTime switching and all-analog design kicks your playing into high gear
  • Revolutionary PrimeTime footswitch seamlessly toggles between classic on/off or a momentary boost based on how long you hold it down
  • High-quality discrete analog circuit purely amplifies your signal without any degrading or alteration
  • Impressive 20 dB of completely clean boost makes your core tone shine through
#TOP 6

Ernie Ball VP JR Tuner Pedal

Ernie Ball

Features

  • Display can also be set to volume only or tuning only. Simply double tap the touchscreen to select between modes
  • As foot sweeps forward, the vibrant screen conveniently displays your volume level
  • Enjoy the same rugged construction and time-tested performance as Ernie Ball’s traditional volume pedal PLUS an enhanced definition digital tuner pedal
  • In the heel down position (volume off), the display automatically enters tuner mode, offering a smooth, accurate, and visually pleasing tuning experience
  • Save space and simplify your pedalboard with this unique 2-in-1 pedal for guitar or bass
#TOP 7

Cry Baby Standard Wah (GCB95)

JIM DUNLOP

Features

  • Color: Black
  • Heavy Die Cast Construction
  • Powered by the Dunlop ECB-03 AC Adapter (not included) and/or 9 volt battery
  • Dimensions: 10" x 4" x 2-1/2"
  • Weight: 3.7 lbs.
#TOP 8

Ernie Ball VP JR 250K Volume Pedal

Ernie Ball

Features

  • 250k potentiometer
#TOP 9

Metal Distortion Guitar Effect Pedal

Pyle

Features

  • HIGH QUALITY CIRCUIT DESIGN: This pedal utilizes high-quality electronic components and optimal circuit design, all inside a reliable aluminum alloy casing. Play heavier genres with this pedal and bring out a rich and distorted tone for your guitar
  • CONTOUR, VOLUME, AND DIST KNOBS: This pedal features easy control knobs for adjusting your tone. Utilize the contour knob to adjust the tone color to your liking, the volume knob to adjust the volume, and the dist knob to adjust the distortion gain
  • TRUE BYPASS FOOTSWITCH: With a true bypass function, you can connect your instrument directly to your amp while also bypassing the effects' circuits, allowing the original tone of the instrument to be retained and giving you a better feel
  • INCLUDES POWER ADAPTER: This metal distortion pedal comes with a 9V DC AC Adapter and velcro for convenient and easy installation on your pedalboard. The maximum dimensions of this pedal is 3.7” x 1.7” x 1.9” inches
  • EXTREME AND CLASSIC MODE: Featuring a two-way tone switch, you can easily change your tone to your preference. Switching changes it between extreme and classic whereas extreme allows for a much harder sounding tone while classic offers a lighter one
#TOP 10

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 11

Boss FV-500H Foot Volume Pedal

BOSS

Features

  • High-impedance Volume/Expression Pedal for Guitar or Other High-Impedance Instruments
#TOP 12

Ernie Ball MVP Most Valuable Pedal (P06182)

Ernie Ball

Features

  • Item Weight: 2.66 pounds
  • Works with any signal anywhere in the signal chain
  • Minimum volume control
  • Gain boost
#TOP 13

Boss FV-30H Foot Volume Pedal

BOSS

Features

  • Other High-impedance Instruments
  • Compact Volume Pedal for Guitar
#TOP 14

Jim Dunlop Volume (X) Pedal Guitar Effects Pedal (DVP3)

JIM DUNLOP

Features

  • Internal controls for effect parameter & heel-down/ toe-down position
  • Aluminum Chassis, aggressive non-slip tread, patent-pending band drive
  • Fully adjustable Rocker tension
#TOP 15

BOSS Low Impedance Volume Pedal (FV-50L)

BOSS

Features

  • Low-impedance FV-50L enables direct control of stereo keyboards and stereo effects units
  • High-impedance FV-50H designed for connection before guitar effects units
  • Minimum volume knob lets users set minimum volume as desired
  • Convenient Tuner Out jack enables speedy tuning on stage
#TOP 16

Dunlop GCB80 High Gain™ Volume Pedal

JIM DUNLOP

Features

  • For extended use
  • Dynamic control
  • Die cast housing
  • Power: passive in-line circuit requires no additional power
  • Quiet and smooth
  • Great for pedal steel swells and instant dynamics
  • 1 million cycle potentiometer
  • Ultra-sensitive 1 million cycle taper potentiometer
  • Quiet operation and heavy-duty construction
#TOP 17

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 18

Donner Amp Attenuator

Donner

Features

  • DC 9V Adapter power supply. (plug polarity is positive on the barrel and negative in the center).(NOT INCLUDED)
  • Easy-to-use passive attenuator. Passive design doesn’t require any power. The LED only displays whether the pedal is on or not.
  • Set output level to minimum immediately by tapping MINIMUM footswitch On board knobs and switch provide flexible sound character.
  • High quality Electronic components and circuit design keep your tone clear and pure. Keep the dynamics and tone of your amp’s sweet spot at lower levels.
  • True bypass. Running through the FX loop and controlling the amount of signal sent to the power section. Let you really push the front end of your amp for the natural feel and tone.
#TOP 19

MORLEY 20/20 Volume Plus

MORLEY

Features

  • Minimum Volume Control
  • Glow-in-the-Dark Treadle Rubber
  • Made in the USA
  • Optical Circuitry That Won't Wear Down Like a Potentiometer
  • Pedalboard Friendly Sized: 6.85″ x 4.5″ x 2.5″ (L x W x H)
  • Smooth Audio Taper Ideal for Swells
#TOP 20

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 21

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 22

Line 6 EX-1 Expression Pedal

Line 6

Features

  • 2 preset versions
  • Durable construction
  • Pitch control
  • Custom wahs
#TOP 23

AZOR Pure Boost Guitar Effect Pedal Micro Clean Boost

AZOR

Features

  • Clean Boost - 20db+ clean boost with ±15db 2 band EQ
  • Good voice- Nice embellishing of original tone
  • Power source- 9V DC adapter center negative(no power adapter included)
  • Classic Design- True bypass provide transparent tone, LED indicator shows the working state
  • Mini style- Small, light weight and exquisite.Enduring, light-weighted Aluminumalloy chassis .
#TOP 24

JOYO WAH-II Classic and Multifunctional WAH Pedal Featuring Wah-Wah/Volume Functions

JOYO

Features

  • Its RM shielded inductance is specially designed for WAH-WAH tone, which guarantees outstanding tone. Active volume control circuit design ensures tone's minimum signal loss and the signal intact.
  • Easy to operate, with WAH-WAH /VOLUME and WAHWAH/BYPASS toggle switch and minimum volume control knob. It takes less space of the pedal board, lightweight and portable.
  • JOYO Multimode WAH is a multifunctional WAH-WAH pedal, featuring both "WAH-WAH" and "Volume" functions. With a WAHWAH sound Q value knob, ensuring the sound changes from compact, sharp to mellow, wide style. 6 WAH-WAH frequency ranges are available for diverse tones catering to various music styles.
  • In addition to the existing JF/Ironman/R series of effect pedals,we will improve and upgrade our product, based on the extensive and constructive feedback given by our supportive customers.
  • Whole aluminium-alloy housing classic,stable and strong, both sides LEDs flash indicator shows the working state. Directly sold by manufacturer of JOYO Technology Co.,LTD which established at 2006.
#TOP 25

SONICAKE VolWah Active Volume & Wah Pedal

SONICAKE

Features

  • Switch between Volume & Wah by the hidden Footswitch
  • 100% Analog Volume/Wah 2 in 1 Pedal with a lightweight casing but yet truly Robust and Well-Built
  • Two LED light shows the working state of the pedal, indicating which mode the pedal is engaged with(Power Adapter NOT included)
  • Style Vintage Wah Sound
  • Active Volume Control can keep away from Impedance Mismatch Troubles
#TOP 26

Fender Tread-Light Volume/Expression Pedal

Fender

Features

  • Switchable Internal Buffer
  • Adjustable 3-Way frequency selector
  • Under-treadle LED
  • Analog Volume/Expression Pedal
#TOP 27

SAPHUE US Dream Guitar Effects Pedal Distortion Effect Pedals Volume/Dist/Tone Knob

SAPHUE

Features

  • Low Noise: Developed with the code to reduce noise swells common with distortion circuit, you get the quietest effect possible with this diatortion pedal.
  • US Dream, Give your clean amp another distortion channel! Simulates the high-gain distortion tone of a driven tube amplifier.
  • Pure Signal: True bypass switching maintains pure signal flow when the diatortion pedal disengaged. Dedicated Volume & Dist & Tone knobs allow for precise effect tailoring.
  • Solid Quality: Aluminium alloy body makes this distortion pedal safe to transport.
  • Easy Carry: This distortion pedal has a small size body, light weight, suitable for out side gigs,powered by a DC 9V adapter (not included in this package).
#TOP 28

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 29

Donner Wah Guitar Pedal

Donner

Features

  • [Classic Wah Sound] Based on the original Crybaby wah pedal. The Vowel’s Wah mode provides you a classic-inspired wah sound with deep filter resonance and smooth sweeping that recreates the iconic 1970s wah pedal sound.
  • [Durable Wah Volume Pedal] Made of hard plastic lightweight casing, robust and well made. Notice: Power Adapter is NOT included.
  • [2 in 1 Guitar Pedal] The Vowel pedal combines wah wah pedal and active volume pedal in one, providing great convenience for musicians.
  • [Pure Signal Path] The Vowel features 100% analog circuit design which keeps your sound pristine. Two Led lights lead to easy operation.
  • [Active Volume Mode] Great for eliminating signal loss, especially when you’re running your signal through a long signal chain.
#TOP 30

Wah/Volume Guitar Pedals Wah & Volume Pedal

AMLESO

Features

  • A versatile volume pedal,stereo or 2 instruments control
  • Great replacement parts for ecectric guitar lovers
  • Passive electronics (No Required)
  • Volume pedal , with amplitude adjusted knob, accuate volume controls
  • and durable
#TOP 31

Morley 20/20 Power Wah Volume Pedal

MORLEY

Features

  • Optical Circuitry That Won't Wear Down Like a Potentiometer
  • Pedalboard Friendly Sized: 6.85″ x 4.5″ x 2.5″ (L x W x H)
  • Premium Morley Buffer That Protects Your Tone
  • Combo Wah & Volume Pedal
  • Smooth Audio Taper Volume Control
  • Glow-in-the-Dark Treadle Rubber
  • Morley's Famous Power Wah Circuit with 20 dB Boost Control
  • LED Indication for Wah Effect
  • Made in the USA
#TOP 32

MOOER Leveline Guitar Volume Pedal

MOOER

Features

  • Special high-low impedance circuit allows flawless use with all pickup types and signal chain placement.
  • The strong and durable metal casing made the extendable pedestal rings for comfort
  • The mini volume pedal is comfortable to operate with smooth transition and zero loss of tone.
#TOP 33

MOOER Free Step Active Volume and Wah Pedal

MOOER

Features

  • Smooth, seamless volume control,Supports 9V battery power
  • Selectable foot sensing control or traditional ‘toe down’ on and off operation in Wah mode
  • MOOER’s custom inductor provides a truly delicious Wah sound
  • Q Range control allows the user to dial in the Wah tone
  • Doubles up as a Wah and Volume in one Pedal and retains every nuance and detail of your original tone
#TOP 34

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.

Choosing the Perfect volume pedals for guitar: What to Consider Beforhand

Why do I need a volume pedal?

Simple and highly effective at gigs, a volume pedal cuts out your signal between songs for guitar changes or breaks. It also gives you an organic way to fade out your guitar at the end of songs if you want.

What is a volume pedal for guitar?

What Are Volume Pedals? Volume pedals can do a number of different things to your signal including acting as a Master control over the volume of your guitar (obviously). A volume pedal is also a great way to create lush, sweeping soundscapes when used with an ambient reverb or delay pedal.

Do I need a passive or active volume pedal?

If you have active pickups you'll need a passive volume pedal in the 25K – 50K range. If you mix these up, you'll likely suffer some tone loss from the impedance mismatch. If you are using an active volume pedal you don't need to worry about the value of the potentiometer.

What is the first pedal you should get?

For most guitarists, a tuner, drive pedal, and delay pedal are essential pedals. Buying these pedals first will give you a solid rig that you won't outgrow. Some guitarists never move past these three pedals, while other guitarists go on to build large pedalboards with a range of different effects.

Do you need a volume pedal guitar?

Having a volume pedal before the distortion will determine how much signal goes into the dirt box, eventually doing a similar effect as a volume knob on a guitar. And the other option – if you have it later in the signal chain, it does pretty much the same thing as the master volume on the amp.

How do I get ACDC guitar tone?

Unless you are using the exact same rig Young used in a particular song, it's practically impossible to get an exact tone match....To sound like AC/DC, start with the following amp settings:
  1. Gain: 5-6.
  2. Bass: 4-5.
  3. Mids: 5-6.
  4. Treble: 6-7.

What is the point of a volume pedal?

What Are Volume Pedals? Volume pedals can do a number of different things to your signal including acting as a Master control over the volume of your guitar (obviously). A volume pedal is also a great way to create lush, sweeping soundscapes when used with an ambient reverb or delay pedal.

Can I use cry baby as a volume pedal?

It can be done fairly easily but it makes a crappy volume pedal.

Editor's Notes

A considerable amount of time and effort was put into this review. We took the time (over 52 hours to be exact) to deep dive into the topic, analyzing at least 1783 consumer reviews. At last, we compiled a selection of the most noteworthy models with an average rating of 300. The products you'll find in this selection are available at $3315 on average (as of 03-10-2023).

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.