10 best guitar pedal wahs

A guitar pedal wah, often referred to simply as a "wah pedal," is a popular effects pedal used by guitarists to alter the tone and dynamics of their electric guitars. It falls under the category of single effects pedals and is widely used in various musical genres, especially in rock and funk.

Key features and characteristics of guitar pedal wahs include:

  1. Wah Effect: The primary function of a wah pedal is to produce a distinctive "wah-wah" sound. This effect is achieved by sweeping a bandpass filter through the guitar's frequency range. When the pedal is rocked forward (toe-down position), it emphasizes the higher frequencies, producing a bright, piercing sound. Conversely, when the pedal is rocked backward (heel-down position), it emphasizes the lower frequencies, creating a deep, mellow tone.

  2. Expression Pedal: Most wah pedals are designed as expression pedals. Guitarists control the effect by rocking the pedal back and forth with their foot, allowing them to shape the tone dynamically while playing.

  3. Footswitch: Typically, wah pedals also have a footswitch that can engage or bypass the effect. This allows the guitarist to switch between the "wah-wah" effect and a clean, unaltered tone as needed.

  4. Versatility: Wah pedals are versatile and can be used in various musical contexts. They are commonly used for soloing to add expression and character to lead guitar lines. In funk music, the wah-wah sound is often used rhythmically to create a funky and percussive effect.

  5. History: The wah pedal's origins can be traced back to the mid-1960s when it was first introduced by the Vox company as the "Vox Clyde McCoy Wah-Wah Pedal." It gained widespread popularity with artists like Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and others during the psychedelic and blues-rock eras.

  6. Notable Models: There are many different wah pedals available from various manufacturers, each with its unique characteristics. Some popular models include the Dunlop Cry Baby, Vox V847, and the Morley Bad Horsie, among others.

  7. Placement: Wah pedals are typically placed in the signal chain after the guitar and before other effects like distortion or overdrive pedals. This positioning allows the wah effect to modify the distorted tone.

In summary, guitar pedal wahs are an essential tool for electric guitarists looking to add expressiveness and tonal variation to their playing. The distinct "wah-wah" effect has made it a staple in the world of rock, funk, and other genres, allowing guitarists to shape their sound with foot-controlled precision.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best guitar pedal wahs on the market
  

Dunlop GCB95 Cry Baby Wah Guitar Effects Pedal

Dunlop

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Dunlop Crybaby is the original - the one that created some of the most timeless sounds in rock. When people talk about wah pedals, they're talking about the Crybaby. Relied on by Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, David Gilmour, and many other greats. Features: Heavy die cast construction for years of reliability, 100k ohm Hot Potz potentiometer that allows for that quick, abrupt wah sound. Powered by the Dunlop ECB-03 AC Adapter and/or 9 volt battery. The Crybaby has been a standard in the world of music since its introduction in the late 1960's. Its rugged construction and efficient design will give years of outstanding performance.

When people talk about wah pedals, they're talking about the Crybaby. This is the original--the one that created some of the most timeless sounds in rock.

The original. Click to enlarge.

Power the CRYBABY with a 9-volt battery or optional adapter.

The Original Wah

The CRYBABY has been a standard in the world of music since its introduction in the late 1960's. Its rugged construction and efficient design have graced the foot of Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, David Gilmour, and many other guitar greats.

Wah Versatility

By rocking your foot back and forth on the pedal, you can change the effect that the CRYBABY has on the tone of your instrument instantaneously. Toe down will give you more treble, heel down will give you more bass. The speed and amount of effect you use depends on your style of playing.

When placing the pedal in one position, you will hear a boost in that particular frequency. This boost can be used to add sustain and create feedback of a desired overtone.

Solid Construction

The CRYBABY features a heavy, die-cast construction, for a road-ready wah pedal that'll provide years of reliability.

Hot Potz Potentiometer

The original CRYBABY boasts a 100K ohm Hot Potz potentiometer, built to last and providing you with a quick, abrupt wah sound.

Powering Options

Power the CRYBABY with a 9-volt battery, or grab an optional Dunlop ECB-003 AC Adapter for powering via outlet.

One-Year Warranty

Dunlop provides extra peace of mind by offering a one-year warranty from date of purchase.

What's in the Box

Dunlop Original Crybaby Wah, User's Manual

  • 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.
  • Color: Black

User questions & answers

Question: Can it fit on most pedal boards
Answer: It is the full size. I have put one on my boards. It is on the heavy side, so be prepared for the weight. Most players put it on the right side of the board and use their right foot.
Question: Hello! as never bought the site , i wonder how much is charged to deliver in brazil (freight + tax) ? it's all calculated upon purchase
Answer: Sorry We don't ship to Brazil
Question: If I buy this, would I have to buy anything else for it to function
Answer: You need to buy a power source which is either an adapter or a 9 volt battery. I went for the battery, so it's not a big of an issue, just the battery will do it. In the box, there's no battery included.
Question: Where are these made
Answer: In a factory

Cry Baby Slash Classic Wah Guitar Effects Pedal (SC95)

Based on 27 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Throughout his career, Slash has used the Cry Baby to create his trademark epic solos that he weaves into his groundbreaking gritty, blues-influenced rock. We worked closely with him to design the Slash Cry Baby Classic, custom-voiced for the raw, expressive sound that influenced a generation of guitar players. Tuned to a lower frequency and featuring a custom-wound resonance inductor, this wah- wah has a huge dynamic range and a wide sweep. Two side-mounted blue LEDs indicate ON/OFF status, viewable from any angle onstage, so you can always tell when the effect is on. The Slash Cry Baby Classic also features high quality components, such as a true hardwire bypass switch and a long-life pot, and comes in housed in a heavy duty die-cast casing featuring custom Slash artwork and a distressed hot-rod paintjob.

  • Tuned to a lower frequency
  • Featuring a custom-wound resonance inductor
  • True hardwire bypass
  • Housed in a heavy duty die-cast casing
  • Custom Slash artwork and a distressed hot-rod paintjob

User questions & answers

Question: Does this come with power adaptor
Answer: This pedal does not come with a power supply as standard from the manufacturer.
Question: Is this supposed to be looking dirty
Answer: It does come looking a little worn. It's just the style/look.
Question: What voltage is this Wah pedal
Answer: this pedal runs on a 9V.
Question: How is this compared to the original slash wah with all the knobs on it
Answer: The original slash wah has an option for an overdrive effect that's why the wah has knobs on it. This slash wah doesn't have that just the wah.

BOSS Dynamic Wah Guitar Pedal (AW-3)

BOSS

Based on 60 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The BOSS AW-3 dynamic wah pedal gives guitarists a wide range of classic auto-wah and dynamic wah effects, Plus a new "humanizer" Effect which can simulate human vowel sounds. A bass input provides a variety of Funky wah sounds for bass guitar.

  • Auto-wah and dynamic wah Humanizer simulates vocal sounds Bass input Expression pedal jack Decay, Manual, Sensitivity, and Mode controls with Tempo Set function

User questions & answers

Question: What country made this
Answer: It's all black
Question: Is this 9 volt
Answer: No it doesn't
Question: What country made this
Answer: All metal shell with grip pads on top Only problem with it is the on/off switch is really stiff and short so you really have to forcefully push to turn on or off
Question: Could some settings on this double as a kind of tremolo? I need a wah but can't afford the pedalboard space on my rig
Answer: No, the power supply is not included.

Product features

AW-3 Dynamic Wah Guitar Pedal

The BOSS AW-3 Dynamic Wah pedal gives guitarists a wide range of classic auto-wah and dynamic wah effects, plus a new "Humanizer" effect which can simulate human vowel sounds. A Bass input provides a variety of funky wah sounds for bass guitar.

The AW-3 Dynamic Wah is the first compact wah pedal to incorporate human voice-type sounds through a new “Humanizer” Mode. Of course, you can also choose from standard up-and-down wah effects, plus a Tempo Mode and resonant synth-like Sharp Mode.

Choose from both fixed and auto wah settings using the Manual control or pedal for tempo input. By connecting an optional expression pedal, the AW-3 can also be used for Pedal Wah effects. A dedicated Bass input permits direct processing of bass guitars.

Dunlop Gary Clark Jr. Cry Baby Guitar Wah Effects Pedal (GCJ95)

JIM DUNLOP

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gary Clark Jr.’S uncanny lyricism and his ability to meld hip-hop, funk, and rock 'n' Roll seamlessly with a blues-based core has breathed new life into one of America's greatest musical traditional. The Cry baby wah is the perfect complement to his masterfully crafted tunes, imbuing his compositions with expressive, melodic Gravity. This custom version comes tuned with a lower frequency range that allows Gary to further Explore the emotional depth that is so integral to the blues while its tighter sweep is perfect for kicking in percussive Syncopation when it’s time to groove. Dressed in custom brushed copper finish personally chosen by Gary that will patina over time, The Gary Clark Jr. Cry baby wah looks as good as it sounds.

  • Low frequency center provides smooth, warm sound
  • Tight sweep range is perfect for percussive, syncopated rhythms
  • Custom brushed Copper finish that will patina over time
  • Package dimensions:10.75" (L) x 4.75" (W) x 3.5" (H)

VOX V845 Classic Wah Wah Guitar Effects Pedal

Vox

Based on 755 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Vox's V845 Wah Wah Pedal preserves the spirit and tone of the early VOX wah-wah pedals"a sound still sought after by today's players. Designed to withstand the rigors of life on the road, the V845 features a solid yet lightweight die-cast aluminum housing, as found on authentic VOX wah pedals from the 1960s. The Vox V845 Classic Wah Wah Guitar Effects Pedal is based on the specifications of the original pedal developed by VOX in the '60s. The V845 Wah-Wah offers guitarists the same legendary Wah-Wah tone in a new sturdy but very affordable design. The fitted AC power connector saves on batteries and the outer case is coated with tough all-black finish making the VOX Classic Wah-Wah a perfect choice for your pedal board. VOX developed the world's first Wah Wah effect during the '60s to give guitarists the ability to sound like a trumpet being muted-an important musical ingredient of the day. VOX's original Wah Wah pedal quickly gained widespread popularity and its unique sonic characteristics have encouraged further experimentation by guitarists ever since.

  • Vox's V845 Wah Wah Pedal preserves the spirit and tone of the early VOX wah-wah pedals"a sound still sought after by today's players
  • Designed to withstand the rigors of life on the road, the V845 features a solid yet lightweight die-cast aluminum housing, as found on authentic VOX wah pedals from the 1960s
  • The Vox V845 Classic Wah Wah Guitar Effects Pedal is based on the specifications of the original pedal developed by VOX in the '60s
  • The V845 Wah-Wah offers guitarists the same legendary Wah-Wah tone in a new sturdy but very affordable design
  • The fitted AC power connector saves on batteries and the outer case is coated with tough all-black finish making the VOX Classic Wah-Wah a perfect choice for your pedal board

User questions & answers

Question: Does the 9v come with the pedal
Answer: We sometimes have 2 kids ride together and there are handles for them to use where they can most comfortably reach. Also, on a wild ride the rider may switch handles as she shifts her weight to stay on!
Question: is this made ofo plastic
Answer: I think the warranty is 90 days.
Question: Does this wahwah pedal come with the ac adaptor or do ou need to purchase one as well if not wanting to use the batteries all the time
Answer: Approximately 5 feet in diameter
Question: Is this made in the USA
Answer: Not that big. It may vary depending on how they folded it, but it certainly won't get that small ever again! It was a while since I got it, but I believe it was less than 2'x1'x1' if I recall correctly. Great item, and my kids love it! Durable and hasn't gotten any mold or mildew either.

Product features

Vox V845

Based on the specifications of the original pedal developed by VOX in the '60s, the V845 Wah-Wah offers guitarists the same legendary Wah-Wah tone in a new sturdy but very affordable design. An AC power connector is fitted to save on batteries and the outer case is coated with tough all-black finish making it the perfect choice for your pedal board.

VOX developed the world's first Wah-Wah effect during the '60s in an effort to allow guitarists to emulate the sound of a trumpet being muted -- an important musical ingredient of the day. VOX's original Wah-Wah pedal quickly gained widespread popularity and its unique sonic characteristics have encouraged further experimentation by guitarists ever since. Having made spotlight appearances on some of the most famous recordings of all time, the Wah-Wah is still considered 'must-have equipment' for guitar players of all levels and abilities today.

The massive success achieved by VOX in the 1960s laid the foundation for the legacy that continues to thrive nearly 60 years later. The sound of VOX amplifiers has left a lasting impact on popular music that still reverberates today. The most influential artists in the world continue to rely on VOX amplifiers to deliver world-class tone in the finest studios and on the biggest stages around the globe. Find your voice with VOX.

Battery installation

Remove the 4 screws from the rubber feet that secure the bottom cover. And then install a 9-volt battery (6F22/6LF22/6FR61), being sure to connect the correct polarity. If you plan on not using the pedal for an extended period of time, remove the battery to avoid damage caused by leakage. You can connect an optional AC adapter (DC9V) to DC9V jack.

Friedman No More Tears Gold-72 Wah Guitar Effects Pedal

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Friedman No More Tears Gold-72 Wah delivers the classic wah tones you crave with the ability to fine-tune the pedal’s feel and character tone. The first thing you’ll notice when stomping down on the Gold-72 Wah is the convenient LED, which is perfectly placed to let you know when it is engaged. Another player-friendly feature is the inconspicuous 3-way sweep switch hidden under the pedal’s treadle. With a simple flip of the toggle, you’re able to find the sweep that feels ideal for your style. Tone isn’t the only feature that is adjustable. The Gold-72 has a convenient and easily accessible Allen screw adjustment under the heel of the pedal that allows the tension of the footboard to be dialed in to each players taste. Add in switchable buffered or true bypass operation, and the Friedman No More Tears Gold-72 Wah pedal just might send those other babies away crying.

  • 3-position Sweep Switch offers three voicing options that you can feel
  • Allen screw tension adjustment gives you complete control of the pedal’s action
  • Easily visible LED indicates when the pedal is engaged or disengaged
  • Internal buffer/true bypass switch allows the pedal to work flawlessly in multiple pedal arrangements
  • Made in USA

Product features

Friedman Gold-72

The Friedman No More Tears Gold-72 Wah delivers the classic wah tones you crave with the ability to fine-tune the pedal’s feel and character tone. The first thing you’ll notice when stomping down on the Gold-72 Wah is the convenient LED, which is perfectly placed to let you know when it is engaged. Another player-friendly feature is the inconspicuous 3-way sweep switch hidden under the pedal’s treadle.

Vintage-Voiced Wah Tones

At the heart of the Friedman, Gold-72 Wah is a classic-sounding, almost vocal effect, that will bring you back to the great rock and funk tones through the decades that we’ve grown to love. Whether wailing through two humbuckers and a full stack, bringing the clean rhythmic sweeps of the ‘70s, or finding a unique voice all your own, you’ll find the Gold-72 Wah feeling right at home on your board.

Customizable Performance

Where the Gold-72 Wah really stands apart from the pack is its ability to conform to your preferences. Want a wider sweep? Hit the 3-way Sweep Switch. Want a tighter feel? Give the Allen screw tension adjustment a quick turn. And the internal buffered/true bypass switch means your wah will sound great wherever you place it in the chain.

The Man Who Knows Tone

Dave Friedman has been building one of the most stellar reputations in the guitar, amplifier, and effects industry for decades. His clientele - which includes some of the biggest names in electric guitar - continue to rely on him to keep them sounding their best night after night. When he puts his name on a piece of gear, you know it will get the job done.

About Friedman Amplification

Dave Friedman is the man behind the signature tones of rock icons Eddie Van Halen, Steve Stevens and Jerry Cantrell. Dave has been building, modding and repairing amplifiers for many of the world’s biggest stars for the past 25 years. Friedman’s innovative designs and meticulous construction have made him legendary in the world of professional touring musicians while earning him a loyal clientele from all over the world. One of Friedman’s mainstays has been modifying amps to each player’s specific tonal palette, and to consult with other established amplifier companies to improve their own designs.

Dunlop GCB95F Cry Baby Classic Wah Guitar Effects Pedal

JIM DUNLOP

Based on 109 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Dunlop Cry Baby Classics are so popular that in many circles, guitarists use the term "Crybaby" to describe wah pedals in general the way people use "Band-aid" and "Kleenex" for "bandage" and "tissue." There's a good reason for this. For the same reason you're not supposed to jump on the bed, wah pedals need to be able to take a ton of abuse.Dunlop Cry Baby Classic are built like a steel girder - from its frame down to its pots, this thing is built to withstand serious beatings. And the Cry Baby Classic's got the traditional Italian-made Fasel inductors that made the original wahs sound the way they did. So if you want vintage tone that your grandchildren can someday inherit, you want a Dunlop Cry Baby Classic!

Back in the 1960s, the wah pedal was born. Those original pedals, which included the first CRYBABY, are among the most sought-after effects of all time. They had a unique voice that has been impossible to duplicate--until now. After more than 30 years, the holy grail of wah components, the Fasel inductor, is back. It helps the CRYBABY Classic deliver that vintage wah tone you're looking for.

A unique, vintage-voiced wah pedal. Click to enlarge.

Fasel inductors help recreate the classic wah sound.

Fasel Inductors

When you think about the classic wah-wah sounds of the 60s, you think about British bluesmen and psychedelic American rockers, not Italy. But those Sunshine-y and Foxey tones could not have existed without the Italian-made Fasel inductors that were in the first wah pedals--including the original Crybaby. These inductors were the key to the pedals' tone, but have been unavailable for years. Not anymore. Your Crybaby Classic with Fasel Inside will faithfully recreate the vocal sweep and lush harmonics from those timeless recordings. Plug in your Crybaby Classic and hear what you've been missing.

Solid Construction

The CRYBABY Classic features a heavy, die-cast construction, for a road-ready wah pedal that'll provide years of reliability.

Hot Potz Potentiometer

The CRYBABY Classic boasts a 100K ohm Hot Potz potentiometer, built to last and providing you with a quick, abrupt wah sound.

Powering Options

Power the CRYBABY Classic with a 9-volt battery, or grab an optional Dunlop ECB-003 AC Adapter for powering via outlet.

One-Year Warranty

Dunlop provides extra peace of mind by offering a one-year warranty from date of purchase.

What's in the Box

Dunlop Crybaby Classic Wah Pedal, User's Manual

  • Features the original Italian-made Fusel Inductor
  • Recreates the vocal sweep and lush harmonics from the wash's classic era
  • Unavailable for decades until today
  • Power: Dunlop ECB003 AC adapter or single 9 volt battery

User questions & answers

Question: Is this the one that doesn't have on/off switch
Answer: Engineered and designed in Japan. Made in Taiwan.
Question: What's the difference between this and the more affordable GCB
Answer: This pedal will work with a 9 bolt battery or a 110 power supply.
Question: What is the difference between this and the 535Q Multiwah
Answer: Made in Taiwan
Question: What's the actual width? Every website says something different
Answer: sorry i'm not technically qualified to answer your question.the music store is the best place to pose your question.

Cry Baby Slash Wah Guitar Effects Pedal (SW95)

Based on 54 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Like the man himself, the Slash Wah from Dunlop is both revolutionary and classic, right down to its hot rod metallic red finish and cutting edge circuit design. The Slash Wah deploys a searing high gain distortion coupled with the Fasel-loaded Classic circuit for instant lead tone that not only cuts through, but sings with a sweet and lush top end. Convenient LEDs indicate distortion on/off and wah on/off modes, so there's no more guessing game every time you put your foot down. And with the batteries readily accessible from the top of the rocker pedal, you don't have to fumble with a screwdriver when it's time to re-power. So get your boot on a Dunlop Slash Wah. Top hat not included. Power: Dunlop ECB004 AC Adapter or Two 9 volt batteries

  • Modeled after Slash's legendary wah-wah tone
  • Searing high gain distortion and Fasel-loaded Classic circuit
  • Power: Dunlop ECB004 AC Adapter or Two 9 volt batteries
  • Dynamic control
  • Die cast housing
  • 2 million cycle potentiometer
  • Quiet and smooth
  • For extended use

User questions & answers

Question: Does this suck the life out of your tone like some other wah's
Answer: We have sold alot of these wahs and that is one response that we don't get from end users. Ifyou really are worried, Buy the CAE404 or the Xotic effects Wah and you will never have to worry about it again
Question: is it possible to use this pedal for other songs (other than slash)? Is it so distinctive? Thank you
Answer: You can use this pedal for all kind of different songs and music. There are no limitations to it
Question: Does the sound really change between the Slash signature one and the basic cry baby
Answer: Hi Juan,Yes the sound is definitely different between the GCB95 Crybaby and the SW-95. Dunlop and Slash did a lot of proto-typing, etc to get the SW-95 to fit just the sound Slash wanted. We have this in stock ready to ship if you decide to order!Thanks,Aaron @ Macdaddy Music
Question: Can I plug my Marshall Code 25 in it
Answer: Yes, you'd need two cables, one between your guitar and the Wah, one between the Wah and your amp. Brian Meader Sales Manager The Guitar Sanctuary

JOYO JF-322 Wow Wah Auto Wah Electric Guitar Single Effect Mini Pedal

Based on 26 reviews Check latest price

Product description

JOYO JF-322 Wow Wah is an auto-wah with a wide range of sounds. It is extremely dynamic. With its 4 controls (Sensitivity, Bias, Resonance and Decay) you have your personal sound at your fingertips. The filters dynamics will surprise you and your sound will spring to life when you engage the pedal. If you feel a bit stuck in your playing, try adding a new element to your music and give the Wow-Wah a try, you won't regret it. Of course it has true bypass

  • Controls: Sensitivity Bias Resonance Decay
  • True Bypass Input Impedance:500k Output Impedance:10K Running Current 22mA Power: DC 9V adapter (negative polarity)
  • Plug in 9v DC Adapter (not included)
  • JF-322 Wow Wah Auto Wah, NEW mini Guitar effects pedals from JOYO.

User questions & answers

Question: Does this come with power supply? Will it work straight out if the box
Answer: Too small for a battery. Unless the seller is selling with power supply I would say you have to provide your own or it will not work out of the box.
Question: Will this work on a bass
Answer: Yes this pedal works very well on bass. Does not suck tone even on the low b string of my 5 string.

Dunlop 535Q Cry Baby Multi-Wah Guitar Effects Pedal

JIM DUNLOP

Based on 266 reviews Check latest price

Product description

  • Provides control over the most important wah parameters
  • Ability to select frequency center and range of the effect
  • Features adjustable, switchable boost
  • Power: Dunlop ECB003 AC adapter or single 9 volt battery
  • Offers six new guitar wah ranges, "Q" dial allows you to shape your wah from a narrow, sharp wah to a broad, subtle wah.
  • Features a variable boost from 0 to +26 dB
  • Hard wire on/off switch

User questions & answers

Question: Is this better than 95Q
Answer: Define better. Physically it's the same quality build. It has more features. More features is only "better" if you need the features.
Question: Does the 535Q function as a volume pedal when not in wah mode
Answer: Nope, it's a wah pedal, not a volume pedal....
Question: Has anyone been able to adjust this to go between guitar and bass? I play both for different bands and am looking for a way to carry less gear
Answer: I've tried plugging in my bass through it... it doesn't quite scoop the right frequencies for it-- sounds anemic and flat. I know Dunlop makes a bass wah pedal for this purpose if you're looking for an expression pedal. But what I like about the 535Q is that it's tailored with settings for the more advanced/professional player looking for that dynamic 'wah' sound. Sounds very warm & punchy through an EFX pedal or clean... Have fun!
Question: Does this variant have the auto heel return thing on the pedal
Answer: No, it doesn't. It operates solely by the movement of the foot rocking heel to toe. Wherever you stop your foot's movement is where the wah frequency/sweep will be set at (unless, you click down all the way on the toe end to go into bypass mode). The only pedals I know of that have the auto-return feature, is the Bad Horsie Wah by Morley and at least one other model they make. They have increased their pedal line and have a very large number of wah-wah's you might be interested in. Check out their website.

Latest Reviews

View all