The Best Volume Pedal for Guitar Playing Professionals in 2024

volume pedals

While guitar volume knobs can be used to adjust volume, you get more accurate hands-free control with the best volume pedal. See which ones we recommend based on the most current ratings and reviews data.

Because of their often hefty size and relatively simple operation, beginners tend to skip on having a good volume pedal. But this is a classic rookie mistake; experienced guitarists know that hands-free volume adjustment is vital in performance and for employing advanced techniques like fade, volume swell, tremolo, boost, and more.

So if you’re progressing to the point of performing on stage, it would be wise to heed the advice of professionals, get a good volume pedal. To help you do just that, here are the best rated volume pedals, based on actual market feedback.

The Best Volume Pedal Roundup – 2024

Author & Contributors

Ernie Ball 250K Mono Volume Pedal

91
GEARANK
91 out of 100. Incorporating 275+ ratings and reviews.
$109.00
Ernie Ball

Cons

  • Cord sensor can sometimes break

Pros

  • With taper mode for fast volume swells
  • Transparent operation
  • Commendable build quality
  • Works great with passive pickups

The main distinguishing feature of the Ernie Ball 250K is its taper switch, which you can use to change the volume curve as you rock the pedal.

The first taper mode follows traditional design, providing consistent volume change all throughout its taper. The second mode gradually accelerates the volume changes, which allows for quicker volume swells, boosts, tremolo and similar techniques. This feature appeals to those who utilize advanced volume related techniques.

With an impedance of 250K, it is designed to better handle instruments with traditional non-active pickups. And it does the job with no tone coloration, ideal for those who are sensitive to tone changes. It also comes with a tuner output, which allows you to use a tuner that does not affect your main signal chain.

Build quality is commendable, the unit is solid and road worthy. But note that the movement of the pedal is controlled by a cord, which allows for good control but can sometimes break, especially when swung too hard.

The Ernie Ball 250K Mono is a solid option if you're looking for a rugged yet flexible volume pedal for passive pickups.

If you're looking for a smaller alternative, check out the Ernie Ball VP Jr 250K, similar features but 22% smaller.

Specifications

  • Design: Volume Pedal
  • Circuit: Passive
  • Best For: Passive Pickups
  • Dimensions: 2.75" x 4" x 11"
  • Weight: 3 lbs

Rating Source Highlight

Website Source *Rating Value
Audiofanzine -Livingroom- 100/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Demo

Dunlop DVP4 X Mini Volume Pedal

92
GEARANK
92 out of 100. Incorporating 800+ ratings and reviews.
$139.99
Dunlop

Cons

  • Can hard to use in cramped pedalboards

Pros

  • Space saving compact profile
  • Cordless sensor design
  • Solid diecast build quality
  • Reliable operation

The DVP4 X Mini is a volume pedal that follows after the compact design of the Dunlop Cry Baby Mini Wah. It sheds off the usual bulk expected of volume pedals, making it easier to integrate into pedalboards.

This small size is a big deal for those who are downsizing their boards. More importantly, it saves you space without compromising performance and build quality. With its diecast exterior this is a compact volume pedal that can take quite the beating. It also doesn't use traditional string sensors, so don't have to worry about caring for and replacing the cord.

Given its compact size, rocking the pedal may require a bit of finesse to avoid accidentally stepping on other pedals in a packed pedalboard. This won't appeal to those who prefer full-sized volume pedals.

In addition to volume control, it can also double as an expression pedal for controlling other effects via its aux output. It even has an internal pot for setting the minimum value of the pedal swing when used as expression controller. You can also use the aux output for plugging into a tuner.

If you're looking for a compact and reliable volume pedal, then definitely consider the Dunlop DVP4 X Mini.

Specifications

  • Design: Volume or Expression Pedal
  • Circuit: Passive
  • Best For: Active Pickups
  • Dimensions: 2.5" x 2.97" x 6"
  • Weight: 1.28 lbs

Rating Source Highlight

Website Source *Rating Value
YouTube 60 Cycle Hum 95/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Demo

Hotone Soul Press II

93
GEARANK
93 out of 100. Incorporating 475+ ratings and reviews.
$119.99
Hotone
Hotone Soul Press II Active Volume Passive Expression Pedal

Cons

  • Pedal a bit small
  • A bit too sensitive for some

Pros

  • Compact and sturdy
  • Versatile
  • Volume level LED indicator is helpful

Having true bypass and versatile features, the Hotone Soul Press II is a 4-in-1 pedal in a compact form factor. They've rolled the features of both the first Soul Press and Vow Press into one.

The build quality of this pedal is far from having a cheap feel and is solid to the touch. It's a bit bigger than the first Soul Press--Soul Press II being 3.1" x 6.3" x 2" in dimensions.

When the first version came out, it only included 3 capabilities: volume, wah, and expression. Soul press II, conversely, now has a volume/wah mode so you can change instantly on the fly.

The added LED indicators for both the volume and the mode are helpful for those people who want to eye out the volume level you're in. This is especially useful for venues that have dim lighting and it takes away the guesswork.

It also includes an independent EXP pedal out, tuner out, and a WAH tone control, allowing you to manipulate your effects locally without affecting the others.

The only minor complaint that some users have with this volume pedal is that it's small and sensitive. The lack of resistance might make you accidentally slide it up or down more or less than usual. It's something to keep in mind if you're planning to purchase this.

Overall, the Hotone Soul Press II is for those guitarists who want more than just a volume pedal. It's on of those versatile volume pedals that give you customizability for your effects needs.

Specifications

  • Design: Volume, Expression, Wah, Wah/Voume Pedal
  • Circuit: Passive
  • Best For: Active Pickups
  • Dimensions: 3.1" x 6.3" x 2"
  • Weight: 1.1 lbs

Demo

Boss FV-500H Volume and Expression Pedal

92
GEARANK
92 out of 100. Incorporating 1300+ ratings and reviews.
$124.30
Boss

Cons

  • Bulky and heavy
  • Not for those who need fast swells

Pros

  • Durable and reliable
  • Smooth and accurate taper
  • Adjustable minimum volume and torque
  • Transparent sound

If there's one thing Boss effects pedals are famous for it's their durability, and this is definitely reflected in the FV-500H. Boss products ensure that you won't have to worry about it breaking down. It's no wonder it's among the popular guitar volume pedals out there.

As denoted by the "H" in its name, this is a high-impedance volume pedal, making it the ideal partner for guitars with passive pickups. And it does the job of changing volume while keeping the original audio signal intact.

Rocking the pedal back and forth feels smooth and is easy to do, which allows for more dramatic and accurate volume changes. On the flip side, volume change can be a bit slow, given its big size. Speaking of big, this is a bulky pedal, not meant for small pedalboard setups.

The pedal comes with an expression output, allowing the pedal to function both as a volume and expression pedal (which can be done simultaneously). The FV-500H also sports a tuner output, which lets you keep a tuner on your board without it being a drain on your signal chain.

The FV-500H comes with a minimum volume and torque control. The minimum volume control allows you to dictate the lowest volume your volume pedal will achieve, and the torque control allows you to dictate the amount of force needed to use the pedal.

The Boss FV-500H is one of the best guitar volume pedals out there that will last you a lifetime, and do its job without fail for a long long time.

Note that the series also has a FV-500L (a low impedance variant of this volume pedal for guitar) that pairs well with active pickups.

Specifications

  • Design: Volume or Expression Pedal
  • Circuit: Passive
  • Best For: Passive Pickups
  • Dimensions: 2.9" x 4.4" x 4.4"
  • Weight: 3.3 lbs

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
Audiofanzine HeavyMetalHero 100/100
YouTube shnobel 90/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Demo

Lehle Mono Volume Pedal

95
GEARANK
95 out of 100. Incorporating 300+ ratings and reviews.
$299.99
Lehle
At publication time this was the Best Guitar Volume Pedal.

Cons

  • Pricier than conventional volume pedals

Pros

  • Magnetic "Hall sensor" design
  • Can be used as clean boost
  • Reliable and with little to no maintenance required
  • Clear sound and smooth sweep

The Lehle Mono Volume Pedal's main advantage over the others is its wear-free "Hall sensor", a device which uses magnets as a way of sensing to what level the volume pedal should be reducing volume. This means that you don't have to worry about cords and potentiometers breaking, because it reduces parts that require maintenance. This ups longevity and reliability by a big margin, compared to traditional string type volume pedals.

For the magnets to work, the pedal utilizes active circuitry, and this is the reason why it comes with an external power adapter. And since it uses active circuitry, you can drive the volume high enough to make the pedal behave as a clean +10b boost.

Other features of the Lehle Volume Pedal include torque adjustment for setting the feel of the pedal, and a buffered out which can be used to power a tuner pedal or to split the signal to a second amplifier. The build quality and feel of the unit is as solid as the technology it use, you have a sense of security that this pedal won't die on you.

Unfortunately, the impressive magnet-based sensor comes with a hefty price tag, not viable for those working with budget constraints. If you don't already have a power strip to power multiple pedals, the lack of a battery compartment may also prove to be an inconvenience.

If budget is not an issue and you're looking for a more modern and durable take on the volume pedal design, then be sure to check out the Lehle Mono Volume Pedal.

Specifications

  • Design: Volume Pedal
  • Circuit: Active
  • Best For: Passive Pickups
  • Dimensions: 2.60" x 3.94" x 10.24"
  • Weight: 3.57 lbs

Rating Source Highlight

Website Source *Rating Value
YouTube shnobel 94/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Demo

Things to Know Before Buying a Volume Pedal

Extending from our popular article on the best guitar pedals, this article will help you specifically find the perfect volume pedal for your rig.

Get the Right Pedal Impedance For Your Pickups

One of the most important things to know before you buy a volume pedal is that when using one you have to match the impedance of your pedal to that of your pickups. If there is an impedance mismatch, it can cause tone loss. You can learn more about how to use a volume pedal in our article explaining volume pedals.

Thankfully, matching impedance between a volume pedal and a guitar pickup is actually pretty simple. All you’ve got to remember is that if you’re using passive pickups you’re going to want a volume pedal in the 250-500K ohm range, and if you’re using active pickups you’re going to want a volume pedal in the 25K – 50K ohm range.

Also, if you want to use your volume pedal in an effects loop (which allows you to control the overall volume without having the pedal color your tone) you’re going to want a low impedance volume pedal.

To tell whether your instrument has active pickups, all you need to do is figure out whether or not your guitar needs a battery. Guitars that do have a black panel on either the back or side which, if popped open, reveals a battery enclosure.

Passive vs. Active Volume Pedals

Passive pedals, like passive guitar pickups, do not require a power supply. Active volume pedals, like active pickups, use an external power source. Passive volume pedals control a signal's volume like a guitar's volume switch, while an active volume pedal controls volume via a small preamp, allowing for more fidelity. Interestingly, some feel that active volume pedals tend to result in unwanted tone suck, but this is more of a matter of preference.

Basically, think of a passive volume effect as a physical limitation of a signal and an active volume pedal as a circuit. You have more options with what an active volume pedal can achieve, though the extra expense may not be worth it if you aren't going to take advantage of the extra features.

Expression

Expression and volume pedals are often lumped together, but in reality they’re two distinct pieces of equipment. Basically, expression controls a parameter of an effect while a volume pedal controls volume. Expression includes things like increasing a delay’s repeats, or a chorus pedal’s depth.

However, while the two effects are different you can actually use a volume pedal as an expression pedal if you purchase a TRS insert cable. However, should you choose to go this route you do need a passive volume pedal as opposed to an active one. These days, there are volume pedals that are designed to double as expression pedals, it will be best to go for one if this is an important feature for you.

In summation, do not buy an expression pedal if you want a volume pedal. Also, should you purchase a passive volume pedal and a TRS insert cable or a dual function volume/expression pedal you can get a pedal which will perform adequately at both tasks. Strymon has a helpful guide on this topic.

Note that there are plenty of expression pedals and even wah pedals that can double as a volume pedal. You'll see this versatility often in multi-effects processors, they have an effects browser that lets you assign the function of the expression pedal to your liking.

Where to Put a Volume Pedal In Your Signal Chain

There are two schools of thought when it comes to volume pedals. Some musicians prefer to have a volume pedal first in their chain (or second if they’re using a compressor), and others want it last.

Basically, when a volume pedal is first in the chain it acts like your guitar’s volume; controlling the amount of gain that comes through. When placed last, a volume pedal controls the overall volume as opposed to gain.

Think of it like this, all a volume pedal does is reduce the strength of a signal, much like the guitar volume knob. A higher signal going into a distortion pedal (which already boosts the signal) will create more distortion. If used after all of your effects, it will boost the entire signal chain. If you're still not sure, you can simply go with the most common route of placing the volume pedal first in your chain, and make adjustments as you gain experience. Volume pedals are commonly position before other effects, guitar processors, and amps (including Headphone Amps).

In addition to guitars, volume pedals also work with bass, be it a Fender, Warwick, Ibanez, or even if you don't know Ernie Ball Sting Ray ID. It can also be used in conjunction with other instruments that output their audio signal via a 1/4" cable.

Before buying, take into account your pedalboard space. Volume pedals are huge, so you'll need space for the volume pedal itself and for the necessary connection cables.

Minimum Volume Setting

Some volume pedals let you adjust the range of volume that the rocker will be working with. The minimum volume setting is usually zero, which is equivalent to muting your signal. Raising this setting to your preferred level allows you to go back to your base volume when you rock the pedal back, making it work like a volume boost. Adjusting the minimum setting maybe a lot for a beginner, but it's a welcome feature in case you need it.

Taper

While most users prefer gradual volume changes, there are some who want bigger changes for volume swells and other stylistic playing. And in order to cater to both of this needs, some manufacturers added Taper control into the pedal. This is a feature you should look into if you're looking to utilize the volume pedal in more expressive ways.

Best Volume Pedal Selection Methodology

The first edition was published in 2017. The current edition was published on July 2, 2024

First we looked at all the highly rated volume pedals available from major online American retailers and short-listed 22 of them for further analysis - you can see the list in the Music Gear Database. Since availability is a big factor in our selection, you won't see rare or boutique volume pedals here, like the Hilton

Next we gathered ratings and reviews from retailers, forums, YouTube, blogs and major music gear publications. For this update, we ended up using over 8,700 sources, all of which were processed with the Gearank Algorithm to produce rating scores out of 100. These scores were then used to make the final selection of the best volume pedals which you see above. For more information about our methods see How Gearank Works.

About the Author and Contributors

Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide's production - click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.

Lead Author & Researcher

I was lucky that my first ever multi-effects unit had a volume/expression pedal, it opened me up to volume swells, fades and more. I have since used a number of different volume pedals from Ernieball and Boss, and familiarizing myself with the pedal's taper was key to getting good results

Contributors

Allen Articulo: Product Research and Supplemental writing.
Mason Hoberg: Supplemental writing.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.

Media

Main/Top Image: By Gearank.com incorporating photographs of the Ernie Ball 250K Mono and Lehle Mono.

The videos above have been embedded in accordance with YouTube's Terms of Service.

The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers.

9 thoughts on “The Best Volume Pedal for Guitar Playing Professionals in 2024”

  1. Due to being discontinued, we’ve removed the following volume pedal from our recommended list above, however you can still read what we have to say about it: Dunlop DVP1.

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