10 best classic wah pedals

Classic wah pedals are a fundamental component of many guitarists' pedal boards and are crucial for achieving iconic rock and blues tones. These pedals are related to various guitar and bass accessories and musical instruments.Here's what you need to know about classic wah pedals:

  1. Definition: A wah pedal, short for "wah-wah" pedal, is an effects pedal used with electric guitars and, sometimes, bass guitars. It is designed to alter the tone of the instrument by emphasizing or attenuating specific frequencies, creating a distinctive "wah" sound.

  2. Functionality: Wah pedals work by sweeping a bandpass filter through the guitar's frequency range. When you press the pedal, it shifts the center frequency of this filter, allowing you to "wah" the sound by rocking the pedal back and forth.

  3. Inventor: The first wah pedal was invented by Bradley J. Plunkett in 1966 while working for the Thomas Organ Company. It was initially intended for use with electric organs but quickly found favor among guitarists.

  4. Popular Classic Models:

    • Cry Baby: The Cry Baby wah pedal is one of the most iconic and enduring models. It gained widespread popularity after Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton began using it in the late 1960s.
    • Vox Clyde McCoy Wah: This early wah pedal, produced in the late 1960s, is known for its vintage tone and was a favorite of players like Jimi Hendrix.
    • Colorsound Wah-Fuzz: This British-made pedal from the late 1960s is prized for its unique tonal character and is considered a classic.
  5. Notable Users: Many famous guitarists have used wah pedals to shape their signature sounds, including Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Slash, Kirk Hammett, and many others.

  6. Variations: Over the years, various manufacturers have produced different versions and variations of the classic wah pedal, offering features like adjustable Q (resonance), true-bypass switching, and more.

  7. Integration with Pedal Boards: Classic wah pedals are typically integrated into pedal boards alongside other effects pedals. They are controlled by foot pressure, allowing guitarists to change the tone dynamically while playing.

  8. Tonal Versatility: Wah pedals are versatile and can be used for a wide range of musical styles, from blues and rock to funk and metal. They are particularly effective for adding expression and dynamics to solos.

  9. Maintenance: Owning a classic wah pedal requires some maintenance, including periodically changing the potentiometer and making sure the pedal's mechanics are in good working order to maintain the desired "wah" effect.

Classic wah pedals continue to be sought-after by musicians for their ability to shape and enhance guitar tones. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just starting, a classic wah pedal is a valuable addition to your gear for achieving expressive and iconic guitar sounds.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best classic wah pedals on the market
  

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.

Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Classic Wah Pedal w/2 FREE Patch Cables

JIM DUNLOP

Based on 417 reviews Check latest price

Product description



Save with this bundle. Package includes: Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Classic Wah Pedal w/2 FREE Patch Cables



Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Classic Wah Pedal When people talk about wah-wah pedals, they re talking about the Cry Baby Wahs. This is the one that created some of the most timeless sounds in rock. The pedal that would eventually become the Cry Baby was first created in 1966 by engineers at the Thomas Organ Company. This new and expressive effect was an instant hit with players like Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton, who have contributed to the Cry Baby Wah s huge popularity to this day. While other effects have come and gone, the Cry Baby Wah just keeps getting better with age.





Features

100k ohm Hot Potz potentiometer that allows for a quick, abrupt wah sound

Powered by the Dunlop ECB-03 AC Adapter and/or 9 volt battery

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  • Save with this bundle. Package includes: Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Classic Wah Pedal w/2 FREE Patch Cables
  • 100k ohm Hot Potz potentiometer that allows for a quick, abrupt wah sound
  • Powered by the Dunlop ECB-03 AC Adapter and/or 9 volt battery Dunlop Crybaby Dunlop Crybaby guitar pedal Crybaby foot pedal Crybaby wah effect pedal wah pedal Crybaby wah pedal Dunlop Crybaby Dunlop Crybaby guitar pedal Dunlop Crybaby guitar effect pedal
  • Heavy die cast construction for years of reliability Dunlop Crybaby Dunlop Crybaby guitar pedal Crybaby foot pedal Crybaby wah effect pedal wah pedal Crybaby wah pedal Dunlop Crybaby Dunlop Crybaby guitar pedal Dunlop Crybaby guitar effect pedal
  • Dunlop Crybaby Dunlop Crybaby guitar pedal Crybaby foot pedal Crybaby wah effect pedal wah pedal Crybaby wah pedal Dunlop Crybaby Dunlop Crybaby guitar pedal Dunlop Crybaby guitar effect pedal

User questions & answers

Question: Is this the standard wah gcb-95 or the classic gcb-95f? description and model don't match
Answer: Standard.
Question: What if the cry baby pedal is not working
Answer: Make sure that the cables are plug into the right inputs, if that doesn't work check to see if the battery is dead, or if you are using a 9V AC Adapter make sure that the polarity is set to the proper settings if it is required. Also make sure any other pedal, 9V AC Adapter or cable isn't interfering. Other than that if it's not working send it back.
Question: Does this Need a power supply
Answer: It needs a power supply or batteries
Question: I'm planning to use it with my interface and play it with my laptop. Is it possible
Answer: Yes, I use it with my interface & DAW complete with a laptop through a USB connection. If your DAW records sound it won't affect the wah pedal

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.

Morley Mini Classic Switchless Wah Pedal

MORLEY

Based on 35 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Classic Morley Performance at an Entry-level Price

  • Mini-sized Wah Guitar Effects Pedal with Electro-optical Design
  • True Tone Bypass Buffer

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with power supply
Answer: No

Product features

Morley 2020 Classic Wah

The 2020 Classic Wah is a simple, straight forward Pro-Level quality Wah pedal with a vintage voice. It comes equipped with everything Morley's are known for: It's Switchless, Optical, built like a tank and all Morley 2020 pedals come with a Buffer Circuit that protects your Guitar's natural tone from any mischief in your signal chain.

Spring Loaded Switchless Activation

One of Morley's great innovations. Ever thought you switched off your Wah only to find it’s still on? Or have you ever accidentally hit the switch while playing? Go Switchless! Simply step on to engage and step off to bypass. The handy spring also returns the Wah back to it's off position. You can also adjust the Wah off time between 0 and 2 seconds with it's internal trim pot. Stock setting is around 1 second.

Vintage Wah Tone With LED Indication

The Classic Wah is perfect for nailing those Crisp Nasally Wah Wah tones of the good o'l days. Morley's engineers spared no expense capturing the tone of the original Wah pedals of the 1960's so you can get that beloved Wah tone, but with Modern dependability. Handy LEDs also indicate when the Wah is on.

Glow-in-the-Dark Details

Never lose your pedal on a dark stage.Morley's Pedal-Glow treadle rubber makes sure you know where your pedal is located. The Morley toe-end sticker also glows in the dark.

Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Classic Wah Pedal Bundle with 2 Patch Cables and 6 Assorted Dunlop Picks

MXR

Based on 365 reviews Check latest price

Product description

You've seen it. You've heard it. But do you have one? This is the original Dunlop Cry Baby wah pedal. It's the one that's joined legions of legendary guitarists onstage since the dawn of rock... from Hendrix to Clapton and far, far beyond. Mount this one on your pedalboard and you'll never regret the decision: this is the one and only wah you need to conjure up classic tones or dive in a new direction of your own. Featuring a heavy-duty die-cast construction for years of stomping, rocking, and tear-shedding (and sometimes shredding) the Dunlop Cry Baby wah pedal is a pedalboard classic.



The Cry Baby Wah is the most iconic guitar effect in music history. When it hit the scene in 1966, it added a whole new layer of expression to the electric guitar-players such as Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton used the Cry Baby Wah to create some of the most timeless sounds in rock.



The GCB95 is a modern interpretation of that sound, featuring the lush, expressive character of the legendary red Fasel inductor with a more focused high end and a more aggressive and accentuated wah sound. With a heavy-duty die-cast housing and a sturdy pot, the Cry Baby Wah will withstand years of playing.

  • The original Dunlop Cry Baby Wah effects pedal
  • Used by greats — from Hendrix to Clapton to Gilmour and beyond
  • Heavy-duty diecast construction for years of reliability
  • 100K ohm Hot Potz potentiometer that allows for that quick, abrupt wah sound
  • Bundle includes 2 6-inch right angle patch cables and 6 assorted Dunlop picks from the PVP101 pick pack.

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with the electrical adapter
Answer: No you will need to use an optional 9v power supply
Question: will this work with a steel guitar
Answer: Yes. I have never seen it done or heard it though. 🥴
Question: Shipping to Australia, what adapter would work
Answer: PW-CT-9V DC Planet Waves adapter center negative.
Question: What is the power supply for this pedal
Answer: The Dunlop GCB-95 Crybaby can be powered by one 9 volt battery (accessed via the bottom of the pedal), a Dunlop ECB003 AC Adapter (ECB003E in Europe), or a Dunlop DCB10 DC Brick power supply.

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.

Jim Dunlop GCB95F Crybaby Classic Retro Fasel Inductor Wah Pedal w/ 2 6" Cables

JIM DUNLOP

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

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.

  • Red Fasel inductor
  • Heavy die cast construction for years of reliability
  • 100K ohm Hot Potz potentiometer that allows for that quick, abrupt wah sound
  • True-bypass switching

Dunlop GCB95F Cry Baby Classic Wah Pedal Bundle with 2 MXR Patch Cables and Dunlop Pick Pack

MXR

Based on 9 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!

  • Features the original Italian-made Fasel inductor
  • Recreates the vocal sweep and lush harmonics from the wah's classic era
  • Unavailable for decades until today
  • Power: Dunlop ECB003 AC Adapter or Single 9 volt battery
  • Bundle includes 6" MXR premium patch cables and Dunlop variety pack of 12 picks

Guitar Pedal,Daphon DF2210 Classic Wah-Wah Pedal Wah Guitar Effect Pedal,Black.

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Features:

Great range for the optimal Wah Wah guitar effects. Ideal for band, DJ and guitar players. Classic Wah Wah effect. On/Off button controlled by foot. Built with our high quality standard.



Specification:

Condition: Brand New

Material: Plastic + Metal

Color: Black

Package Weight: Approx. 633g/22.3oz



Package List:

1 * Guitar Stereo Volume Pedal

  • 【WIDE APPLICATION】Great range for the optimal Wah Wah guitar effects. Ideal for band, DJ and guitar players. It also fits for small gigs or home studio.
  • 【GOOD TONE】The Vox DF2210 Classic Wah Wah Guitar Effects Pedal is based on the specifications of the original pedal developed by VOX in the '60s, and offers guitarists the same legendary Wah-Wah tone in a new sturdy.
  • 【UNIQUE DESIGN】On/Off button controlled by foot. Active volune design for eliminating signal loss. Classic Wah Wah effect.
  • 【HIGH-QUALITY】Built with our high quality standard.The outer case is coated with tough all-black finish making the VOX Classic Wah-Wah a perfect choice for your pedal boar.
  • 【GUARANTEE】If you are not satisfied with our product you received, you can send emails to us at any time. We will reply you instantly and help you solve your problem.

User questions & answers

Question: Does this have true bypass
Answer: No
Question: Does this have a dc9v adapter
Answer: It did not, and I have no idea where the battery goes. Besides that fact, it works.
Question: do you know how to change the battery on this thing
Answer: Just unscrew the bottom of the pedal and the battery is right there hope this helps 😊
Question: Does it come with an adapter cable for the power
Answer: No

JOYO CLASSIC WAH-I Mini WAH Pedal,Volume Pedal,Multifunctional and Portable

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

CLASSIC VOLUME WAH Product Specifications

1. RM shielded inductance, guaranteeing outstanding tone

2. Less space than pedal board, lightweight and portable

3. Easy to operate, with WAH-WAH /VOLUME and WAH-WAH/BYPASS toggle switch and minimum volume control knob

4. WAH-WAH and VOLUME functions

5. LED indicators on both sides clearly show the pedal’s working status

6. TrueBypass for WAH-WAH mode only

7. Active volume control circuit design ensures tone’s minimum signal loss and the signal intact

8. Size: L160xW63xH55mm

Guitar Effect Pedal Love

Set aside your music stand or box and let yourself be whisked away by this guitar effect pedal. Whether playing a classic or something new, you will find it adds the right tone to your Yamaha, Ibanez, Cordoba or Gibson. You might want to get the whole band back from piano, drums, keyboard and even saxophone player. Or you might just want to strum to a solo. Regardless, after playing with this one, you will want to record your own CD.

About JOYO

JOYO Technology specializes in research & development and manufacturing digital products for music education and instruments. We design and create products across a wide spectrum, including Effects Pedals, Guitar Amplifiers, Tube Amplifiers, Rock House, Metronomes, Tuners, EQ systems, Drum Practice Pads, Pedal Controllers, Synthesizers, E-Erhus, Wireless Systems, Audio Cables and Portable Power Supplies.

With an emphasis on research & development, JOYO possesses its own acoustic core technology and has applied for several utility patents. JOYO has worked in tandem with several globally recognized musical manufacturers, adhering to the spirit of constant innovation, and researching and developing high technology and advanced digital musical products. Each product is individually tested and approved by professional musicians.

We are committed to providing outstanding tone—you’ll know it when you hear it!

  • Multifunctional WAH-WAH pedal, featuring both WAH-WAH and VOLUME functions. In VOLUME Control mode, minimum volume control knob is one of its characteristics, by adjusting this knob you can obtain volume while toeing down the pedal completely
  • The feel for CLASSIC WAH pedal is amazing and the range of motion is ergonomic, besides, skidproof rubber cushion for the feet enhances durability, the bright LEDs on both sides indicate the pedal’s working status
  • From experts to kids, musicians will love these effect pedals. Grab your pick and jam away to your favorite tunes, music sheet or improvisational band session
  • Complete your accessories kit. Picks. Stand. Tuner. Case. Cable. Capo. Wall Mount. Strings. Metronome. And now effect pedal
  • Gift of Music. No better way to show your appreciation for the musically inclined individual in your life. Men, women, adults and children will love these effect pedals under the Christmas tree or as a birthday present

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