In today’s music industry, guitarists are always looking for ways to enhance their sound and create unique effects. One of the most popular ways to do this is by using an auto wah pedal.
Editor’s Note:Auto wah pedals are a great way to add a dynamic and funky sound to your guitar playing. They can be used to create a variety of different effects, from subtle swells to over-the-top wah-wah sounds.
With so many different auto wah pedals on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best auto wah guitar pedals. We’ve done the research and analysis, so you don’t have to. We’ve also included a table of key differences to help you compare the different pedals side-by-side.
Key Differences
| Feature | Dunlop Cry Baby Mini Wah | Electro-Harmonix Q-Tron | MXR M101 Phase 90 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Large | Medium |
| Weight | Light | Heavy | Medium |
| Price | $100 | $200 | $150 |
Now that you know a little bit more about auto wah pedals, let’s take a closer look at some of the best models on the market.
1. Range
The range of an auto wah pedal is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a pedal. The range determines how high or low the wah effect can go, which can have a big impact on the sound of your guitar. If you’re playing a lot of lead guitar, you’ll want a pedal with a wide range so that you can create a variety of different wah sounds. If you’re playing more rhythm guitar, you might be able to get away with a pedal with a narrower range.
- Facet 1: The low end of the range
The low end of the range determines how low the wah effect can go. This is important for creating deep, funky wah sounds. If the low end of the range is too high, you won’t be able to get those deep, resonant wah sounds.
Facet 2: The high end of the range
The high end of the range determines how high the wah effect can go. This is important for creating bright, cutting wah sounds. If the high end of the range is too low, you won’t be able to get those bright, aggressive wah sounds.
Facet 3: The sweep of the range
The sweep of the range determines how wide the wah effect is. This is important for creating a variety of different wah sounds. If the sweep of the range is too narrow, you won’t be able to get a wide variety of wah sounds.
Facet 4: The resonance of the range
The resonance of the range determines how pronounced the wah effect is. This is important for creating a variety of different wah sounds. If the resonance of the range is too low, you won’t be able to get those pronounced, screaming wah sounds.
By understanding the range of an auto wah pedal, you can choose a pedal that will give you the sounds you want. If you’re not sure what kind of range you need, it’s a good idea to try out a few different pedals to see what works best for you.
2. Sensitivity
The sensitivity of an auto wah pedal is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a pedal. The sensitivity determines how responsive the pedal is to your playing dynamics, which can have a big impact on the sound of your guitar.
- Facet 1: Attack
The attack of an auto wah pedal determines how quickly the wah effect comes in. A pedal with a fast attack will respond quickly to your playing, while a pedal with a slow attack will respond more gradually. If you’re playing a lot of fast, aggressive music, you’ll want a pedal with a fast attack. If you’re playing more laid-back music, you might be able to get away with a pedal with a slower attack.
Facet 2: Decay
The decay of an auto wah pedal determines how long the wah effect lasts. A pedal with a long decay will sustain the wah effect for a longer period of time, while a pedal with a short decay will let the wah effect fade out more quickly. If you’re playing a lot of lead guitar, you’ll want a pedal with a long decay so that you can create long, sustained wah sounds. If you’re playing more rhythm guitar, you might be able to get away with a pedal with a shorter decay.
Facet 3: Threshold
The threshold of an auto wah pedal determines how hard you have to play before the wah effect kicks in. A pedal with a low threshold will respond to even the lightest touch, while a pedal with a high threshold will only respond to harder playing. If you’re playing a lot of delicate, nuanced music, you’ll want a pedal with a low threshold. If you’re playing more aggressive music, you might be able to get away with a pedal with a higher threshold.
Facet 4: Range
The range of an auto wah pedal determines how wide the wah effect is. A pedal with a wide range will be able to produce a variety of different wah sounds, from subtle swells to over-the-top wah-wah sounds. A pedal with a narrow range will only be able to produce a limited number of wah sounds.
By understanding the sensitivity of an auto wah pedal, you can choose a pedal that will give you the sounds you want. If you’re not sure what kind of sensitivity you need, it’s a good idea to try out a few different pedals to see what works best for you.
3. Resonance
Resonance is a crucial aspect of an auto wah pedal, as it determines how pronounced the wah effect is. A pedal with a high resonance will produce a more pronounced wah effect, while a pedal with a low resonance will produce a more subtle wah effect.
- Facet 1: Q-factor
The Q-factor of an auto wah pedal determines the width of the wah effect. A pedal with a high Q-factor will produce a narrow wah effect, while a pedal with a low Q-factor will produce a wide wah effect.
- Facet 2: Frequency
The frequency of an auto wah pedal determines the center frequency of the wah effect. A pedal with a low frequency will produce a deep wah effect, while a pedal with a high frequency will produce a bright wah effect.
- Facet 3: Gain
The gain of an auto wah pedal determines the amount of boost or cut that is applied to the wah effect. A pedal with a high gain will produce a more pronounced wah effect, while a pedal with a low gain will produce a more subtle wah effect.
- Facet 4: Mix
The mix knob on an auto wah pedal allows you to blend the wah effect with your clean
signal. This is useful for creating a variety of different wah sounds, from subtle swells to over-the-top wah-wah sounds.
By understanding the resonance of an auto wah pedal, you can choose a pedal that will give you the sounds you want. If you’re not sure what kind of resonance you need, it’s a good idea to try out a few different pedals to see what works best for you.
4. Attack
The attack of an auto wah pedal is an important factor to consider when choosing a pedal, as it can have a big impact on the sound of your guitar. A pedal with a fast attack will respond quickly to your playing, while a pedal with a slow attack will respond more gradually.
If you’re playing a lot of fast, aggressive music, you’ll want a pedal with a fast attack. This will allow you to create sharp, pronounced wah sounds that will cut through the mix. If you’re playing more laid-back music, you might be able to get away with a pedal with a slower attack. This will give you a more subtle wah sound that will blend well with the other instruments in your band.
Here are some examples of how the attack of an auto wah pedal can affect your sound:
- A pedal with a fast attack will create a sharp, pronounced wah sound that is perfect for cutting through the mix.
- A pedal with a slow attack will create a more subtle wah sound that will blend well with other instruments.
- A pedal with a variable attack will allow you to create a wide range of wah sounds, from subtle swells to over-the-top wah-wah sounds.
When choosing an auto wah pedal, it’s important to consider the attack of the pedal and how it will affect your sound. By understanding the attack of an auto wah pedal, you can choose a pedal that will give you the sounds you want.
Table: Attack of Auto Wah Pedals
| Attack | Sound | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Fast | Sharp, pronounced wah sound | Cutting through the mix |
| Slow | Subtle wah sound | Blending with other instruments |
| Variable | Wide range of wah sounds | Creating a variety of wah sounds |
5. Decay
The decay of an auto wah pedal is an important factor to consider when choosing a pedal, as it can have a big impact on the sound of your guitar. A pedal with a long decay will sustain the wah effect for a longer period of time, while a pedal with a short decay will let the wah effect fade out more quickly.
If you’re playing a lot of lead guitar, you’ll want a pedal with a long decay so that you can create long, sustained wah sounds. This will allow you to create expressive solos that will stand out in the mix. If you’re playing more rhythm guitar, you might be able to get away with a pedal with a shorter decay. This will give you a more subtle wah sound that will blend well with the other instruments in your band.
Here are some examples of how the decay of an auto wah pedal can affect your sound:
- A pedal with a long decay will create a long, sustained wah sound that is perfect for creating expressive solos.
- A pedal with a short decay will create a more subtle wah sound that will blend well with other instruments.
- A pedal with a variable decay will allow you to create a wide range of wah sounds, from subtle swells to over-the-top wah-wah sounds.
When choosing an auto wah pedal, it’s important to consider the decay of the pedal and how it will affect your sound. By understanding the decay of an auto wah pedal, you can choose a pedal that will give you the sounds you want.
Table: Decay of Auto Wah Pedals
| Decay | Sound | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Long | Long, sustained wah sound | Creating expressive solos |
| Short | Subtle wah sound | Blending with other instruments |
| Variable | Wide range of wah sounds | Creating a variety of wah sounds |
6. Blend
The blend knob is a crucial feature of an auto wah pedal, as it allows you to control the mix between the wah effect and your clean signal. This gives you the flexibility to create a wide range of wah sounds, from subtle swells to over-the-top wah-wah sounds.
If you’re playing a lot of lead guitar, you’ll want to use a low blend setting so that the wah effect is more pronounced. This will allow you to create expressive solos that will stand out in the mix. If you’re playing more rhythm guitar, you might want to use a higher blend setting so that the wah effect is more subtle. This will allow you to create a wah sound that will blend well with the other instruments in your band.
The blend knob can also be used to create a variety of special effects. For example, you can use a high blend setting to create a gated wah sound, which is a wah sound that is only activated when you’re playing. You can also use a low blend setting to create a dub wah sound, which is a wah sound that is very subtle and ethereal.
When choosing an auto wah pedal, it’s important to consider the blend knob and how it will affect your sound. By understanding the blend knob, you can choose a pedal that will give you the sounds you want.
Table: Blend Knob Settings
| Blend Setting | Sound | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Low | Pronounced wah effect | Lead guitar |
| High | Subtle wah effect | Rhythm guitar |
| Variable | Wide range of wah sounds | Creating a variety of wah sounds |
7. Bypass
The bypass switch is a crucial feature of any auto wah pedal, as it allows you to quickly and easily turn the wah effect on or off. This is important for a variety of reasons. First, it allows you to quickly switch between the wah effect and your clean signal, which can be useful for creating a variety of different sounds. Second, it allows you to turn the wah effect off when you’re not using it, which can help to conserve battery life. Third, it allows you to troubleshoot the pedal if you’re having any problems.
- True bypass
True bypass is a type of bypass switch that completely removes the pedal from the signal path when it is turned off. This means that your guitar signal will not be affected by the pedal in any way when it is bypassed. True bypass is important for preserving the tone of your guitar, as it ensures that the pedal will not add any unwanted noise or distortion to your signal.
- Buffered bypass
Buffered bypass is a type of bypass switch that uses a buffer to maintain the integrity of your guitar signal when the pedal is turned off. This is important for long cable runs, as it can help
to prevent signal loss and noise. Buffered bypass is also useful for pedals that are placed at the beginning of your signal chain, as it can help to prevent the pedal from loading down your guitar’s pickups. - Soft bypass
Soft bypass is a type of bypass switch that gradually fades out the wah effect when the pedal is turned off. This can be useful for creating a smoother transition between the wah effect and your clean signal.
- Hard bypass
Hard bypass is a type of bypass switch that abruptly turns the wah effect off when the pedal is turned off. This can be useful for creating a more pronounced effect when you turn the wah effect on and off.
When choosing an auto wah pedal, it’s important to consider the type of bypass switch that it has. The type of bypass switch that you choose will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
8. Size
The size of an auto wah pedal is an important consideration if you’re planning on using it on a pedalboard. A larger pedal will take up more space on your board, while a smaller pedal will be easier to fit in. If you have a lot of other pedals on your board, you’ll need to make sure that the auto wah pedal you choose will fit.
- Facet 1: Physical Dimensions
The physical dimensions of an auto wah pedal are important to consider, as they will determine how much space the pedal will take up on your pedalboard. The width, length, and height of the pedal should all be taken into account when choosing a pedal that will fit on your board.
- Facet 2: Weight
The weight of an auto wah pedal is also an important consideration, especially if you’re planning on using it on a pedalboard. A heavier pedal will be more difficult to move around and position on your board, while a lighter pedal will be easier to manage.
- Facet 3: Mounting Options
The mounting options of an auto wah pedal are also important to consider, as they will determine how you can mount the pedal on your board. Some pedals have built-in mounting brackets, while others require you to purchase separate mounting hardware. The type of mounting hardware you need will depend on the size and shape of your pedalboard.
- Facet 4: Power Requirements
The power requirements of an auto wah pedal are also important to consider, as they will determine how you can power the pedal on your board. Some pedals require a 9-volt battery, while others require a 12-volt or 18-volt power supply. The type of power supply you need will depend on the power requirements of the pedal.
By considering the size of an auto wah pedal, you can choose a pedal that will fit on your pedalboard and meet your needs.
9. Weight
The weight of an auto wah pedal is an important consideration if you’re planning on using it on a pedalboard. A heavier pedal will be more difficult to move around and position on your board, while a lighter pedal will be easier to manage. This is especially important if you have a large pedalboard or if you’re planning on using multiple pedals.
There are a few reasons why the weight of an auto wah pedal is important. First, a heavier pedal will be more difficult to transport. If you’re gigging regularly, you’ll need to be able to easily transport your pedalboard from one venue to the next. A heavy pedal can make this task more difficult.
Second, a heavier pedal can be more difficult to position on your pedalboard. If you have a lot of other pedals on your board, you’ll need to be able to fit the auto wah pedal in a way that doesn’t interfere with the other pedals. A heavy pedal can be more difficult to move around and position in a way that works well with the other pedals on your board.
Finally, a heavier pedal can be more difficult to use. If you’re playing a long set, you’ll need to be able to use the auto wah pedal without getting tired. A heavy pedal can be more tiring to use than a lighter pedal.
When choosing an auto wah pedal, it’s important to consider the weight of the pedal and how it will affect your ability to use the pedal. If you’re planning on using the pedal on a pedalboard, it’s important to choose a pedal that is lightweight and easy to move around.
Table: Weight of Auto Wah Pedals
| Weight | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight | Easier to transport and position on pedalboard | May not be as durable as heavier pedals |
| Heavyweight | More durable | More difficult to transport and position on pedalboard |
10. Price
The price of an auto wah pedal can vary significantly, depending on the features and build quality. Less expensive pedals may have a limited range of features and may be made with less durable materials. More expensive pedals may have a wider range of features and may be made with more durable materials.
- Facet 1: Range of Features
The range of features on an auto wah pedal can vary greatly. Some pedals may only have a few basic features, such as a single wah mode and a single control knob. Other pedals may have a wider range of features, such as multiple wah modes, multiple control knobs, and additional effects, such as distortion or overdrive.
- Facet 2: Build Quality
The build quality of an auto wah pedal can also vary significantly. Some pedals may be made with durable materials, such as metal, and may be built to withstand heavy use. Other pedals may be made with less durable materials, such as plastic, and may be more susceptible to damage.
- Facet 3: Brand
The brand of an auto wah pedal can also affect the price. Pedals from well-known brands, such as Dunlop or Electro-Harmonix, may be more expensive than pedals from lesser-known brands.
- Facet 4: Availability
The availability of an auto wah pedal can also affect the price. Pedals that are in high demand may be more expensive than pedals that are not as popular.
When choosing an auto wah pedal, it’s important to consider the price of the pedal in relation to the features and build quality that you need. If you’re on a budget, you may want to choose a less expensive pedal with a limited range of features. If you’re looking for a pedal that will last for many years, you may want to choose a more expensive pedal with a durable build quality.
11. Brand
When choosing the best auto wah guitar pedal, the brand of the pedal can be an important factor to consider. Different brands have different reputations for quality and customer service, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.
- Facet 1: Quality
Some brands are known for producing high-quality pedals that are built to last. These pedals are often made with durable mat
erials and components, and they undergo rigorous testing to ensure that they meet the highest standards of quality. - Facet 2: Customer Service
Some brands are known for providing excellent customer service. This means that they are responsive to customer inquiries and are willing to help troubleshoot any problems that you may encounter with their products.
- Facet 3: Reputation
Some brands have a good reputation in the guitar community. These brands are known for producing innovative and reliable products, and they have a loyal following of customers.
- Facet 4: Warranty
Some brands offer generous warranties on their products. This shows that they are confident in the quality of their products and are willing to stand behind them.
When choosing the best auto wah guitar pedal, it’s important to consider the brand of the pedal in relation to your own needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a pedal that is built to last and is backed by a good warranty, then you may want to choose a pedal from a well-known brand. However, if you’re on a budget or if you’re not sure which brand to choose, then you may want to read reviews of different pedals to see what other guitarists have to say about them.
12. Reviews
Reviews are an important part of the research process when choosing the best auto wah guitar pedal. By reading reviews, you can get a good idea of what other guitarists think of a particular pedal, its sound quality, its build quality, and its overall performance.
There are a few things to keep in mind when reading reviews. First, it’s important to read reviews from a variety of sources. This will help you to get a well-rounded view of the pedal and to avoid any potential bias.
Second, it’s important to be critical of the reviews that you read. Not all reviews are created equal, and some reviewers may be more knowledgeable or experienced than others.
Finally, it’s important to remember that reviews are just one piece of the puzzle when choosing the best auto wah guitar pedal. You should also consider your own needs and preferences, as well as your budget.
However, reviews can be a valuable resource when making a decision about which auto wah guitar pedal to buy. By reading reviews, you can get a good idea of what other guitarists think of a particular pedal, and you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s the right pedal for you.
Table: The Importance of Reviews
| Importance of Reviews | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Provide insights into sound quality | Reviews can give you a good idea of how a pedal sounds in different settings and with different guitars. |
| Highlight build quality | Reviews can tell you how well a pedal is made and how durable it is. |
| Share performance experiences | Reviews can provide information about how a pedal performs in different live and recording situations. |
| Identify potential issues | Reviews can help you identify any potential problems or limitations with a pedal before you buy it. |
FAQs about the Best Auto Wah Guitar Pedal
Many guitarists ask questions about how to choose the best auto wah pedal for their needs. Let’s dive into some of the most frequently asked questions.
Question 1: What is an auto wah pedal?
An auto wah pedal is an effect pedal that automatically produces a wah-wah sound by sweeping the frequency response of a filter up and down. This effect is often used to create a funky or psychedelic sound.
Question 2: How do I choose the best auto wah pedal for my needs?
When choosing an auto wah pedal, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The range of the pedal, which determines how high or low the wah effect can go.
- The sensitivity of the pedal, which determines how responsive it is to your playing dynamics.
- The resonance of the pedal, which determines how pronounced the wah effect is.
- The attack and decay of the pedal, which determine how quickly the wah effect comes in and fades out.
- The blend knob, which allows you to mix the wah effect with your clean signal.
- The bypass switch, which allows you to turn the wah effect on or off.
- The size and weight of the pedal, which are important if you’re planning on using it on a pedalboard.
- The price of the pedal, which can vary depending on the features and build quality.
- The brand of the pedal, which can be a factor in terms of quality and customer service.
- The reviews of the pedal, which can give you a good idea of what other guitarists think of it.
Question 3: What are some of the best auto wah pedals on the market?
Some of the best auto wah pedals on the market include the Dunlop Cry Baby Mini Wah, the Electro-Harmonix Q-Tron, and the MXR M101 Phase 90.
Question 4: How do I use an auto wah pedal?
To use an auto wah pedal, simply connect it to your guitar and amplifier. The pedal can be used to create a variety of different wah sounds, depending on the settings of the pedal and your playing style.
Question 5: What are some tips for getting the most out of an auto wah pedal?
Here are a few tips for getting the most out of an auto wah pedal:
- Experiment with the different settings of the pedal to find the sounds that you like.
- Use the pedal in conjunction with other effects pedals to create unique and interesting sounds.
- Practice using the pedal to develop your own playing style.
Question 6: Where can I learn more about auto wah pedals?
There are a number of resources available online and in print that can teach you more about auto wah pedals. You can also find helpful information by talking to other guitarists and by experimenting with different pedals.
That concludes our FAQ section on auto wah pedals. Choosing the right pedal and incorporating it into your playing requires some exploration and experimentation, leading to a rewarding experience as you refine your sound and technique.
Do you have any other questions about auto wah pedals? If so, please feel free to leave a comment below. We’re always happy to help!
Tips for Using an Auto Wah Guitar Pedal
Auto wah pedals are a great way to add a funky or psychedelic sound to your guitar playing. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your auto wah pedal:
Tip 1: Experiment with the different settings of the pedal to find the sounds that you like.
Most auto wah pedals have a variety of knobs and switches that allow you to control the sound of the effect. Experiment with these settings to find the sounds that you like best.
Tip 2: Use the pedal in conjunction with other effects pedals to create unique and interesting sounds.
Auto wah pedals can be used in conjunction with other effects pedals to create a variety of unique and interesting sounds. For example, you could use an auto wah pedal with a distortion pedal to create a heavy, wah-wah sound.
Tip 3: Practice using the pedal to develop your own playing style.
The best way to get good at using an auto wah pedal is to practice. Experiment with different playing styles and techniques to develop your
own unique sound.
Tip 4: Don’t be afraid to experiment.
The best way to learn how to use an auto wah pedal is to experiment. Don’t be afraid to try different settings and techniques to find the sounds that you like best.
Tip 5: Have fun!
Auto wah pedals are a lot of fun to use. Experiment with different settings and techniques to find the sounds that you like best and have fun playing with your auto wah pedal.
Summary of Key Takeaways:
- Experiment with the different settings of the pedal to find the sounds you like.
- Use the pedal in conjunction with other effects pedals to create unique and interesting sounds.
- Practice using the pedal to develop your own playing style.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment.
- Have fun!
Auto wah pedals are a great way to add a funky or psychedelic sound to your guitar playing. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your auto wah pedal and create your own unique sound.
Best Auto Wah Guitar Pedal
The auto wah guitar pedal is a versatile and expressive effect that can add a unique and funky sound to your playing. When choosing the best auto wah guitar pedal for your needs, it is important to consider a number of factors, including the range, sensitivity, resonance, attack, decay, blend, bypass, size, weight, price, brand, and reviews of the pedal.
By understanding the different features and options available, you can choose the auto wah guitar pedal that will help you create the sounds you want. Experiment with different settings and techniques to find your own unique sound. With a little practice, you’ll be able to master the auto wah guitar pedal and add a new dimension to your playing.
