The guitar comes with its own volume control that you can adjust according to your liking. But one problem with the guitar’s volume control is that it can be quite difficult to adjust. And that’s why it is advisable to consider having a volume pedal alongside your guitar.
Liked by everyone, including avid guitarists, the volume pedal makes life much easier. It literally makes it easier for the user to get the perfect sound and tone.
This is because a guitar volume pedal is excellent for varying a guitar signal as well as creating wild dynamics. It is mostly operated with the foot, meaning it is extremely easy to use. As such, you will be able to use it to make solos and rhythm sections play at the same level.
Since we believe that every guitarist must have one, we have provided the following buyer’s guide on how to find the best guitar volume pedal. Check it out.
- Volume Pedal Based on your Pickups: You must match the impedance of your pedal to that of your pickup when using a volume pedal. This helps prevent impedance mismatch, which can subsequently lead to tone loss. With this in mind, go for a volume pedal in a range of 25K – 50K if you are using active pickups. But if you are using passive pickups, go for a volume pedal in a range of 250K – 500K.
- Passive vs. Active Volume Pedals: A passive volume pedal is like passive guitar pickups in that it does not use a separate power source. On the other hand, an active volume pedal works like active pickups in the sense that it uses an external power source. A passive volume pedal controls the volume of the signal like the volume switch of the guitar. On the contrary, an active volume pedal controls volume but with more fidelity. Well, based on this information, an active volume pedal is better. But should you go for it, be ready to spend more than someone who buys a passive volume pedal.
- Should you consider Expression?: Volume pedals and expression models are two different pieces of equipment. While volume pedals control the volume, expression models control a parameter of an effect. The expression model consists of such things as increasing a chorus pedal’s depth, or a delay’s repeat. As a result, consider those volume pedals that can also be used as expression pedals. You can also consider buying a TRS insert cable to help you use your volume pedal as an expression pedal. But should you go for this, be sure to first purchase a passive volume pedal and not an active one. In general, it is needless to buy an expression model if you want a volume pedal.
To further break down this topic, we have come up with the following top 10 best guitar volume pedal reviews in 2018.
Contents
- 10. Donner Volume Expression Guitar Effect Pedal
- 9. Valeton EP-1 Active Volume Pedal
- 8. BOSS Volume Pedal – Low Impedance (FV500L)
- 7. Valeton Passive Volume Guitar Pedal (EP-2)
- 6. Fender FVP-1 Volume Pedal
- 5. BOSS Volume Pedal – High Impedance (FV-500H)
- 4. Ernie Ball Most Valuable Pedal (MVP)
- 3. Moog EP-3 Expression Pedal
- 2. Ernie Bell VP Jr. P06180 250K Potentiometer
- 1. Zoom G1Xon Guitar Effects Pedal
10. Donner Volume Expression Guitar Effect Pedal
It is very difficult to find a 2-in-1 guitar volume pedal. That’s why we cannot let this opportunity slip through your hands. The Donner Volume Expression Guitar Effect Pedal has two functions, which include passive volume and expression pedal. In addition, it automatically detects and catches output source (EXP/Vol) objective. And its smooth taper precisely responds to a wide range of parameters to give you the best result. This guitar volume pedal is made of a hard plastic casing, which is lightweight yet robust. It is convenient and a must-have for any guitarist.
| PROS | CONS |
| The price fits the bill | The footprint is small |
| Works nicely and smoothly | |
| The sweep is better to ears | |
| Does not require battery | |
| Compact and well built | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
9. Valeton EP-1 Active Volume Pedal
The Valeton EP-1 Active Volume Pedal rocks; at least, that’s what everyone says. The unit comes equipped with two LED lights, so you can have an easy time operating it. Still on easy operation; the guitar volume pedal features footswitch to let you switch between mods without much hassle. Its input ¼” mono audio jack will allow you to connect it to your guitar, while its output ¼” mono jack is for signal out. Ideally, we like the fact that you will comfortably switch to wah mods; thanks to the flexible control range active volume.
| PROS | CONS |
| The volume function works well | Stability is suspect because of the lightweight construction |
| The top end does not get too harsh | |
| Well made and has a good wah tone | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
8. BOSS Volume Pedal – Low Impedance (FV500L)
Professionalism goes hand in hand with quality. And that’s where the BOSS Volume Pedal – Low Impedance (FV500L) comes into play. It is a stereo and low-impedance volume pedal that will make your keyboard sing and improve your ability to play the guitar. It has a rubber pedal that works with non-slip action to let you play comfortably and effortlessly. Because it is designed to deliver peerless performance, this volume pedal can be used to swell and sculpt dynamics and sounds. What’s more, its expression output can take further control of keyboard’s functions.
| PROS | CONS |
| Arrives pretty fast to avoid inconveniences | A bit heavy, but this is to improve stability |
| Stays in place without the duct tape | |
| Changes volume very smoothly | |
| Simple and solid to give you the best | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
7. Valeton Passive Volume Guitar Pedal (EP-2)
Although the Valeton Passive Volume Guitar Pedal (EP-2) is made of a plastic casing, it is tough and ready to stand up to the heavy use associated with guitar volume pedals. In addition, its size is extremely compact to make sure you have no problem operating it. Another feature that stands out in this guitar volume pedal is the 2-in-1 functionality, which makes the guitar volume pedal perfect for volume and expression. Also, there are smooth tapers, which respond to a wide range of parameters.
| PROS | CONS |
| The small footprint is great | Very lightweight, but does not feel flimsy |
| The price is decent and will not break the bank | |
| Fits nicely on most pedalboards | |
| Needs no power to operate | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
6. Fender FVP-1 Volume Pedal
The Fender FVP-1 Volume Pedal measures 8.4 inches long by 3.5 inches wide by 2.6 inches high. Besides, it comes equipped with a Tuner Out jack, which allows for convenient tuning on stage. Another feature we would like to talk about is the special circuit that retains the tone of instruments in all settings. Given the features and performance of this unit, we believe that it is the best mini volume pedal you will ever come across. Its specially-designed, long-lasting potentiometer allows for quiet, worry-free operation.
| PROS | CONS |
| Seems well built and works as advertised | It is quite difficult to make precise volume adjustments |
| The perfect curve allows for swelling | |
| Matches most pedalboards nicely | |
| The size and tension are great | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
5. BOSS Volume Pedal – High Impedance (FV-500H)
BOSS is one of the best companies in producing guitar volume pedal. That’s why we have included the FV-500H on this list. Well, everything about this volume pedal is great. For example, the volume pedal has a rubber pedal that combines with non-slip action to ensure comfortable play. Additionally, its pedal movement is ultra-smooth to make sure you have utmost comfort and control. Another feature that stands out is the heavy-duty die casting body that enables this guitar volume pedal to hold up well to high demands.
| PROS | CONS |
| Has a controllable feel under the foot | A little large, and, therefore, tends to take a lot of space |
| Well built and very solid | |
| Does not seem to suck or alter the tone | |
| The pedal resistance can be adjusted | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
4. Ernie Ball Most Valuable Pedal (MVP)
We recommend the Ernie Ball MVP to you because it is perfect for precise volume control; thanks to its amazingly smooth foot sweep. Its volume control has no high-frequency loss regardless of the volume level, and this further justifies the reason you should have it. In order to withstand the everyday abuse, this pedal displays a rugged design that consists of billet aluminum housing, which is virtually indestructible. In addition, it uses 9V battery or DC 100mA/9V minimum power supply to deliver outstanding results.
| PROS | CONS |
| The swell is natural and tapers well | Does not go silent in heel position |
| Works great without any major issues | |
| The footprint is small | |
| The volume control is very helpful | |
| Great for making key rhythms and leads pop | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
3. Moog EP-3 Expression Pedal
You have probably visited this site to get the best expression pedal guitar. And we assure you that you will get it. The Moog EP-3 Expression Pedal has high-functioning features that automatically make it one of the best. It boasts superb craftsmanship to give you confidence in using it. It also has a perfect balance and weight to get the best out of you. What’s more, this expression pedal has a brand new cam system that features incredibly smooth performance and superior durability. It also comes with a polarity switch, which allows it to work with non-Moog brands.
| PROS | CONS |
| Built well and feels great | Could be better with more range |
| The price is within an affordable range | |
| Sturdy and holds its angle | |
| The motion is smooth to make operation a breeze | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
2. Ernie Bell VP Jr. P06180 250K Potentiometer
The 250k ohm resistance delivered by the Ernie Bell VP Jr. P06180 is ideal for the audio path of passive instruments. And this is what has convinced us to include the potentiometer in these reviews. We also like the micro taper switch, which is behind the jack area under the footplate. Well, the micro taper switch will provide you with two distinct volume swell rates. Furthermore, the potentiometer comes with durable Kevlar cable that is attached by stainless steel springs and transmits pedal travel to the controls.
| PROS | CONS |
| Very rugged to offer reliable performance | You have to run a powered pedal in front to avoid tone loss on guitar/bass |
| Sturdy mechanism to ensure precise positioning | |
| The grip keeps the foot in place | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
1. Zoom G1Xon Guitar Effects Pedal
The first product on our list is the Zoom G1Xon Guitar Effects Pedal. And we regard it as one of the best guitar effects pedals because it promises to give your effort the much-needed extra touch of control. It offers up to 100 amazingly sounding multi-effects and comes with an integrated expression pedal. What’s more, this effects pedal has up to 68 rhythm patterns to give you unbelievable performance. Still on quality performance; the manufacturer of this effects pedal provides 4 AA batteries and operation manual.
| PROS | CONS |
| Great for home jamming and training | Most of the presets have a “humming” sound, which you cannot get rid of |
| Produces amazing sound quality | |
| Great value for the price | |
| Has 100 separate effects | |
| The amp model is warm and accurate | |
| Buy on Amazon | More Information |
Conclusion
All the information you have been looking for about guitar volume pedals is right here. That being said, we are certain that by the time you are reading this, you already have identified the best small volume pedal from the list above. So, good luck trying it out and enjoying its services.
