Best Expression Pedal

Only musicians know how difficult it is to find creative and vibrant sounds. Many musicians realize it after recording. What they thought was a fantastic solo is nothing just a few notes without expression.

So, how to add an expression or to control the sounds? Easy, with the best expression pedal!

An expression paddle is a type of effect paddle used to control sound in electronic equipment. It is more like a remote knob that you can control through your foot. Besides, expression pedals can make the sound exciting in the digital amplifiers, keyboards, stompboxes, etc.

That being said, an expression controller only controls the volume of the guitar. Well, it is somewhat true. However, it can control a few more things, like delay, modulation, etc. It depends on the device or effects it is attached to.

Is all this making you confused? No worries! This review will clear up all your confusion. Here we bring you the best expression pedals along with a detailed buying guide. Let’s get started!

10 Best Expression Pedal reviews

Getting the best expression pedal can be challenging if you’re not well aware of it. That’s why we did in-depth research to find the best option for you. Now, let’s go through the best expression pedal for kemper, digital amps, and more.

1. M-Audio EX-P | Universal Expression Pedal

At the very beginning, explore the full creative range of your controller with the M-Audio Ex-P. The pedal doesn't look fancy by design. However, it provides great sounds for musicians who are looking to explore different effects.

It comes with a separately-located polarity knob to make the pedal adjustable with other brands. The pedal is compatible with most keyboards, synthesizers, and other effect devices. Nonetheless, it's ¼” hardwired TRS cable adds stability to the connection.

2. Roland EV-5 Expression Pedal

With the size, Roland EV-5 is certainly the best mini expression pedal in the market. The pedal is best-known for being useful with delay and reverb pedals. It provides dynamic performance in its mini size.

Moreover, the pedal has a hardwired 6-foot cable, which ensures a smooth connection. The best part of this pedal is its smooth transition. It allows setting the volume level to your choice. While using it with the keyboard, make sure it is compatible.

The pedal may not be designed to be top of the range. However, it provides a great expression option at an attractive price. Overall, it can perform for a long period.

3. Yamaha FC7 Volume Expression Pedal

Yamaha is a reliable name among experienced musicians and beginners as well. Their Yamaha FC7 volume expression pedal is one of the most selling pedals. Besides, it’s a heavy-duty volume controller with a range of expressions.

There is a metal connecting plate to connect several pedals together in the signal chain. Besides, the plug-n-play feature makes it easy to use. If you are using it with a keyboard, make sure it has a ¼” jack for volume.

Above all, the pedal has a long throw, which provides better control and sensitivity. It’s rugged, smooth-operating, and non-slip bottom works better even on the wooden surface. Indeed, it’s a great deal for the price.

4. Digitech Guitar Expression Pedal

Digitech Guitar expression pedal is another best expression pedal on the list. Instead of the small size, it delivers the same feel and throws as the big pedals. The pedal allows the user to get natural feedback at both soft and loud volumes.

Alongside the studios, it can also withstand the rigors of live performance. The pedal only concentrates on the out-of-control feedback. It also features numerous onset delay and level balance controls. So you get decent harmonic capability with 7 feedback.

Overall, the pedal is a great option to improve the sound quality and diversity. Its ultra-compact size makes it a favorite choice among most musicians. The pedal also lasts the test of time.

5. On-Stage KEP100 Keyboard Expression Pedal

Whether it is durability or versatility, the On-Stage KEP100 expression pedal is excel in all. It offers everything you look into an expression pedal. The pedal provides the action and spontaneous feel that you need for exact musical expression.

The pedal includes a 6’ connected ¼” TRS cable for a secure and reliable interface. It also allows adjusting the expression range, thanks to its scalable control knob. The pedal comes in black and grey composition, which makes it fit for modern studios.

Most of all, the KEP100 can withstand the rough use in the studio or live stage. You’ll surely get what you look for. Above all, the price is extremely affordable. It is worth giving it a try!

6. Mission Engineering Expression Pedal

Mission Engineering is a real deal for people who don’t prefer plastic housing. Indeed, this expression pedal ensures durability with its all-metal body. Even being new in the industry, Mission Engineering has become of the biggest expression pedal manufacturer.

Furthermore, the pedal offers a smooth transition. You get the real feeling of an advanced boost in swell and volume. Being a passive pedal, it doesn’t require any power. Lastly, it is worth mentioning that the pedal has a cam system for reliable operation.

All in all, the Mission Engineering expression pedal is going to suit you. The pedal gets its job done and do it correctly. We must say it is the best mini expression pedal you can get in an all-metal body.

7. Mission Engineering Expression Guitar Pedal for Kemper Green

Up next, we have the best expression pedal for kemper from Mission Engineering. The Mission Engineering EP1-KP comes in a fancy design with lots of expressions. It is best to get the most out of your Kemper Profiler.

Moreover, the pedal features a toe switch. You can turn on and off the effects without needing a separate footswitch. From the outlook and performance, it looks and feels like a cry baby wah pedal.

The Mission Engineering EP1-KP is a top-notch expression pedal designed especially for kemper. It is sturdily built, so it is going to last for decades. Yes, it is a bit pricier than most others, but it is worth the price. You can give it a try!

8. Line 6 EX-1 Expression Pedal

Line 6 EX-1 is one of those tools that can change your music much better. It is the ideal pedal to use with the Line 6 M5 stompbox modeler and AX2. The pedal offers simple operation with diverse opportunities.

Besides, the pedal includes ¼” jack and ¼” connecting cable. You can use it with other ¼” cable for the longer run. The best part is, it allows us to switch from low to high settings gradually. Thus, it provides smooth movement between different values.

9. Dunlop Guitar Volume Pedal (DVP4)

Dunlop guitar volume pedal is a real space-saver. Indeed, you can now control the volume and FX parameters without crowding your pedals. It doesn’t compromise with the durability and functionality, even being compact in size.

However, the DVP4 can be used both as an expression pedal and a volume pedal. While using as an expression pedal, a calibration control allows setting the minimum expression level. The pedal also allows reversing the heel-down and tow-down positions with an internal switch.

10. Zoom G3Xn Guitar Multi-Effects Processor with Expression Pedal

Last, in the list, the Zoom G3Xn is one of the best expression pedals for many reasons. It provides the freedom and flexibility needed to explore new playing styles. There is a lot into a single pedal unit.

So you can adjust the sound with the knobs and switch in a way you want. The pedal comes loaded with 75 custom-designed factory patches. It allows us to recreate necessary guitar tones and explore new sounds.

Above all, its 68 built-in rhythm patterns allow for solo performance. You can also record and overdub phrases with an onboard looper for up to 80 seconds.

What Is An Expression Pedal?

An expression pedal is a treadle-type foot pedal used in electronic music equipment. It is used to control different parameters such as; volume, delay level, modulation, etc. An expression pedal mostly controls the volume of the tone.

It doesn’t produce the sound itself instead of remotely control aspects of the equipment it is attached to. Possibly, that’s the reason it is called a remote knob. An expression pedal doesn’t control all the aspects of a device.

What it controls depends on the features of the attached equipment. When digital amps use expression pedals, it controls volume, wah, and whammy. Also, most high-end stompboxes allow controlling parameters like delay time or tremolo speed or reverb.

Sometimes it controls delay feedback, reverb trails, rotary speaker speed, etc. to give the best sounds in the situations. Note that, it can be used with the devices with a dedicated expression-pedal input or a MIDI control input.

Types of Expression Pedals

Expression pedals don't have any specific type in that sense. However, there are two types of expression paddles, depending on its functionality. They are; passive and active.

Passive expression pedals depend on the potentiometer. It doesn’t require any additional power or current to be functional. In that sense, passive one only needs a plugin, and it is ready to go.

Also, there is no stress on batteries and tangled cables. It has one downside that is passive expression pedal can ruin somewhat ruin your tone. However, it also depends on the brand and model you are buying.

Conversely, active expression pedals require a power supply to get activated. It provides the possible strength of your tone. And it’s a great plus. Luckily, the market has both types of expression pedals. You can try anyone that suits your needs.

Best Expression Pedal Buying Guide

As the name suggests, the purpose of an expression pedal is to add expression to your playing. There are a lot of features that can have a great impact on its role. You should check them before buying the best mini expression pedal.

Length of the Power Cord

One of the essential features to keep in mind is the length of the power cord. Expression pedals are mostly used in live situations to a vast crowd. So, you’ll likely need a longer power cord.

The longer cord will let you move around the stage without rolling down. However, if you are an indoor player, a shorter power cord will be enough.

Build-Quality

As you know, an expression pedal is controlled through the feet. It means the pedal has to endure a lot of stress. So, the pedal should be made of the best quality materials. Expression pedals can be made of different materials, such as heavy-duty aluminum, rubber, or plastic.

The aluminum ones are stable and durable than the other two types. But, aluminum pedals are expensive than plastic ones. However, most manufacturer brings an expression pedal with a plastic top and aluminum base to lessen the cost.

Those units are functional, but the plastic top may slide the foot while you are performing. Therefore, expression pedals with rubber tops are the most reliable option. It won’t slide your foot in the live situations.

Compatibility

Expression pedals have a few compatibility issues. If it is not compatible with the device you are using, you won’t get the desired result. It should be compatible with the guitar so it can work.

Check the compatibility before buying the best expression pedal for kemper or other gears. Because you can't refund it in case, it is unusable.

Size of the Pedal

The size of the pedal does matter. You need a pedal that you can take around. In the case of an expression pedal, the smaller sized pedals are more practical. They are easy to carry from the studio to the live stage.

But then, there comes another fact. You cannot use the smaller sized pedal with bigger feet. In that case, you need to buy a larger sized expression pedal.

Versatile Models and Additional Features

Another thing we must include is the multifunctional models of expression model. You’ll likely want to have a model that offers more than its obvious job. Some models of expression pedals come with an expression/volume combo. Also, a few models include an expression/wah combo.

It is great to have those models, especially for active setup. But, you need to be careful while buying them. Some manufacturers will fool you with a cheap-quality package at a very affordable price. Those packages are actually master at none.

Budget

There is a wide range of prices available for expression pedals. The more you play, the more options you’ll get. Mostly, the price varies from 40 to 160 dollars. How much you need to spend depends on your skill level.

The beginners can go with an affordable expression pedal. However, if you are a professional, you should have a good budget. You’ll need a pedal with more technical features.

Warranty

Last but least, it is crucial to get a pedal with a good warranty. As a user, it’ll protect any damages. Different manufactures have different warranties, so check it before buying.

How Does An Expression Pedal Work?

Before you learn how an expression pedal works, let’s know about its structure. It has a top panel called a rocker. And, it stays stable at one end and rotates up and down. At the other end, an arm is attached to a potentiometer shaft.

Besides, a pot is wired to an output cable. When you move the rocker, it rotates the pot—an expression pedal work by supplying a control voltage to a guitar or other device. The voltage passes from the device through the cable and then the pot.

Finally, it comes back to the output. When you move the rocker, it changes the pot resistance and so the control voltage returned. The device then reads this voltage it is attached to. This is how the energy is used to change any parameters.

What Factors Impact The Compatibility of An Expression Pedal?

Expression pedals are designed to control a variety of parameters. We all know that. If you ask, is there any limitation to what I can or cannot use? The answer is, yes, there are a few things that affect the compatibility of an expression pedal.

Mechanical Concerns in an Expression Pedal

Most expression pedals use a mechanical way to convert the linear movement of the rocker to rotate the potentiometer. These usually employ a rack and gear mechanism that utilizes a Kevlar string or metal band.

Most general-purpose pots are turned by hand. These create a few problems and become unsuitable for expression pedals. First of all, it is not designed physically for foot operation. The force we apply is much than the panel mount pot’s mechanical specifications, so it breaks.

Moreover, a few shelf potentiometers will likely rotate between 270 and 320 degrees. The movement of the shelf potentiometer has to match with the rocker’s movement. If it doesn’t match, the pot might not change with the evolution of the shelf potentiometer.

So, it may knock out the shelf potentiometer’s stops. It may also result in dead spots and harm to the pedal. That’s why it is essential to have a dedicated pedal for the rocker movement.

Where Does An Expression Pedal Sits In The Signal Chain?

An expression pedal can literally sit anywhere on your pedalboard. However, it cannot goes directly to your signal chain. You need to connect it to the pedal that you wish to control. Generally, expression pedals are a bit bulky than other pedals.

So they are often placed next to volume pedal. It not only provides a better effect but also saves space. There is no specific rule of thumb on where to put an expression pedal. You should place it on your pedalboard where it makes sense.

You should place it where it adds an extra level of expression. Wherever you place it, make sure there is nothing in the way. Otherwise, your pedal cannot serve its purpose.

FAQs

1. Is a volume pedal the same as an expression pedal?

An expression pedal and volume pedal may look precisely the same. However, at the core, they offer entirely different functions. As you know, expression pedals are used to change range parameters, including volume.

Alternatively, the volume pedal will only change or control the volume level of the guitar. Both pedals can indeed be united into a single unit. That’s a different thing. There may not have any physical differences, but they are made for various purposes.

2. What does an expression pedal do?

Earlier, we have mentioned this quite a few times. Expression pedals control different parameters on electronic equipment, including stompboxes, digital amps, MIDI controller, rack effects, etc. Along with the volume level, it controls parameters like delay, reverb trails, wah, mix, and more.

3. Can you use a wah pedal as an expression pedal?

Yes, but a wah pedal needs to be gutted and revised to use it as an expression pedal. Otherwise, it will not work right out of the box.

4. How do you make an expression pedal?

You can make an expression pedal from a crybaby wah pedal. Here is how;

5. Do expression pedals need power?

Most expression pedals are passive, which doesn’t require any power. It operates through the control voltage that is generated by the device it is attached to.

6. How do you use a volume pedal?

As you probably know, the volume pedal has a particular task, which is volume control. What matters about a volume pedal is where they perform the best. Many guitarists may have their preferences.

But, the standard practice is to place it either before delays or the end of the signal chain. These two positions have a distinct effect on your signal.

7. Where should my volume pedal go?

Volume pedal should go either the end of the signal or before delays. While using at the end of the signal chain, the signal becomes attenuated. The signal holds all the modulation effects, full-overdrive saturation, and all. Moreover, using it before a delay, let you control the volume as much as you want.

8. Why you need a volume pedal?

You need a volume pedal to attenuate the complete signal chain. Volume pedal also allows doing swells and other similar effects.

9. Do volume pedals affect tone?

Of course, they can affect tone. Not only volume pedals, but the other pedals in a signal chain can also affect tone. Some do it terribly, and some do nothing.

Conclusion

Finally, we are at the end of our review. If you’ve noted this article in-depth, you know how and where to find your option. Undoubtedly, adding the best expression pedal to your signal chain will hugely change the guitar effects.

The pedals we’ve presented are some of the best options you will find currently. We tried to add the expression pedals of different budgets. So, you can find one that fits your desires and abilities.

Get ready to expertise new effects and make the incredible possible. Best of Luck!