20 Best Volume Pedals [Top Picks For Controlling Your Sound]

Music, whether it’s a passion or profession, requires the right set of tools for the perfect expression.

And what’s better for electric guitar or keyboard players than having control over volume without compromising on sound quality?

Welcome to my curated list of the 20 best volume pedals in 2024, which will help you to navigate towards a device that suits your musical demands.

From subtle tone changes to dramatic volume shifts during a live performance, a good pedal can be your secret weapon, adding another dimension to your music.

In this blog post, I’ll be sharing top-notch options that are popular among professional and amateur musicians alike.

With so many brands and models out there on the market, choosing can become overwhelming; nevertheless, by considering their features and value for money, I’ve compiled this list for you.

The 20 Best Volume Pedals in 2024

Whether you’re a professional musician or just someone who loves to play music, having control over your volume levels is essential.

A volume pedal allows you to adjust the output level of your instrument with precision and ease.

Several outstanding options on the market can take your performance to the next level. Here is a list of the best volume pedals available this year:

Ernie Ball VP Jr.

The Ernie Ball VP Jr. is a compact and reliable volume pedal that offers smooth and accurate control over your instrument’s volume.

With its small size, it is easy to fit on any pedalboard without taking up too much space.

Key Features:

• Passive Design: The VP Jr. is a passive volume pedal, which means it does not require a power source to function. This makes it convenient to use and eliminates the need for extra cables or batteries.
• Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials, the VP Jr. is designed to withstand the rigors of live performances and heavy foot use. Its sturdy construction ensures longevity and reliability.
• Taper Switch: The VP Jr. features an onboard taper switch that allows you to adjust the taper of the volume sweep. This feature provides flexibility in tailoring the pedal’s response to your playing style.
• Smooth Operation: The Ernie Ball VP Jr. offers smooth and precise volume control throughout its range, allowing for seamless transitions in your playing dynamics.
• Guitar and Bass Compatibility: This versatile pedal is suitable for both guitarists and bassists, providing an excellent solution for controlling volume during solos or creating swells.

BOSS FV-500H

The BOSS FV-500H is a robust and versatile volume pedal designed for professional musicians who demand ultimate performance.

Key Features:

• High-Impedance Stereo Input/Output: The FV-500H features high-impedance stereo input/output jacks that preserve the integrity of your instrument’s signal, ensuring transparent sound reproduction.
• Expression Output:
  The expression output allows you to connect additional compatible pedals or devices for expanded control over various parameters, adding even more versatility to your setup.
• Heavy-Duty Construction:
  Built with a rugged aluminum chassis, the FV-500H is built to withstand the toughest stage conditions. Its durable construction ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
• Adjustable Pedal Feel Control:
  The FV-500H allows for fine-tuning of the pedal’s response to your liking, providing customized control over volume dynamics.
• Expression Out Jack:
  The expression out jack enables you to control other compatible pedals or external devices, allowing for versatile sound shaping.

Also Read: 17 Best Delay Pedals For Heavenly Echo Tones

Morley PLA Steve Vai Little Alligator Optical Volume Pedal

The Morley PLA Steve Vai Little Alligator Optical Volume Pedal is a signature volume pedal designed in collaboration with guitar legend Steve Vai.

Key Features:

• Optical Circuit: The Little Alligator utilizes an optical circuitry that ensures smooth and noise-free operation, eliminating any unwanted pops or clicks commonly associated with traditional potentiometer-based volume pedals.
• LED Indicator: Equipped with an LED indicator, the Little Alligator provides visual feedback on the pedal’s status, making it easy to see if it’s on or off even in dark stage environments.
• Electro-Optical Design: This pedal features an electro-optical design that delivers a consistent and reliable response without any mechanical parts that may wear over time. This ensures long-term durability and smooth operation.
• True Tone Buffer: The Little Alligator includes a true tone buffer that preserves the integrity of your guitar’s signal, ensuring transparency even when using long cable runs or multiple effects pedals.
• Switchless Design: With its switchless design, the Little Alligator offers hassle-free and silent operation. There are no physical switches to engage or disengage, making it easy to control your volume without any distractions.

Ernie Ball MVP

The Ernie Ball MVP is a versatile volume pedal that combines traditional volume control with an added boost function for added flexibility on stage.

Key Features:

• Minimum Volume Control: The MVP features a minimum volume control knob that allows you to set a predetermined minimum volume level. This feature is particularly useful when switching from rhythm to lead playing, ensuring a consistent volume level.
• Boost Function: In addition to serving as a volume pedal, the MVP also includes a boost function that provides up to +20dB of clean boost. This added functionality allows you to cut through the mix during solos or highlight specific parts of your performance.
• Tuner Output: The tuner output jack on the MVP allows you to connect your tuner directly to the pedal. This eliminates the need for an additional tuner pedal, saving space and reducing cable clutter on your pedalboard.
• Smooth Taper Control: The MVP offers smooth taper control with its nylon gear drive for precise and gradual volume swells, giving you full control over your dynamics.
• Durable Construction: Built with roadworthy construction, the Ernie Ball MVP is designed to withstand heavy use and provide years of reliable performance.

Also Read: 20 Best Phaser Pedals [Top Picks For Epic Sound Effects]

Valeton EP-2

The Valeton EP-2 is a compact and affordable volume/expression pedal that offers excellent performance without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

• Dual Functionality: The EP-2 functions as both a volume and expression pedal, allowing you to adjust not only your instrument’s volume but also control various parameters on compatible effects pedals or devices.
• Lightweight and Compact Design: With its compact size and lightweight construction, the EP-2 is perfect for musicians who value portability and want to save space on their pedalboard.
• Expression Control Switch:
  The expression control switch toggles between volume mode and expression mode, allowing for seamless transitions between controlling different parameters.
• Smooth Performance:
  Equipped with high-quality components, the EP-2 provides smooth operation throughout its range for precise control over your instrument’s volume or effect parameters.
• Solid Build Quality:
  Despite its affordable price tag, the Valeton EP-2 is built to withstand regular use, ensuring it can handle the demands of live performances and studio sessions.

Dunlop DVP4 Volume X Mini Pedal

The Dunlop DVP4 Volume X Mini Pedal is a compact and versatile volume pedal that offers precise control over your instrument’s volume levels.

Despite its small size, this pedal packs a punch with its robust construction and excellent performance.

Key Features:

1. Small Footprint: The DVP4 Volume X Mini Pedal is designed to take up minimal space on your pedalboard, making it ideal for musicians with limited real estate.
2. Taper Switch: This pedal features a taper switch that allows you to choose between two different volume taper options – Linear or Logarithmic. This gives you the flexibility to customize the pedal’s response to match your playing style.
3. Expression Output: The DVP4 provides an expression output jack, which allows you to connect it to other compatible pedals or devices for added control over various parameters.
4. Adjustable Torque: With its adjustable torque feature, you can fine-tune the resistance of the pedal’s movement, allowing for precise control and a comfortable playing experience.
5. Solid Construction: Built with high-quality components, the DVP4 is roadworthy and built to withstand the demands of gigging musicians. Its rugged metal chassis ensures durability and longevity.

Ernie Ball 6180 VP JR 250K

The Ernie Ball 6180 VP JR 250K is a compact volume pedal designed with durability and smooth operation in mind. Its small size makes it easy to fit on any pedalboard without sacrificing functionality.

Key Features:

1. Compact Design: The VP JR 250K is designed with a smaller footprint, allowing for seamless integration into any setup without taking up too much space.
2. 250K Potentiometer: Equipped with a 250K Ohm potentiometer, this volume pedal provides excellent audio tapering and is specifically designed for use with passive instruments, delivering a smooth and even response.
3. Rugged Construction: The VP JR 250K features a rugged and sturdy construction, ensuring durability that can withstand the rigors of the road.
4. Passive Design: This volume pedal is passive, which means it does not require any additional power source to operate. This makes it convenient to use without the need for extra cables or batteries.
5. Tuner Output: The VP JR 250K includes a tuner output jack, allowing you to connect your tuner directly to the pedal. This helps conserve space on your pedalboard and streamlines your setup.

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Sonuus Voluum

The Sonuus Voluum is an innovative volume pedal that offers more than just volume control. With its advanced features and versatile functionality, this pedal is ideal for musicians looking to explore new sonic possibilities.

Key Features:

1. Volume and Effects Control: The Voluum combines volume control with high-quality digital effects processing, giving you full control over both your instrument’s volume and various effect parameters.
2. Dual Analog Inputs/Outputs: This pedal provides dual analog inputs and outputs, allowing you to integrate stereo signals seamlessly into your setup for a wide soundstage.
3. Multi-Function Footswitches: The Voluum features two multi-function footswitches that can be customized for various functions such as changing presets, engaging effects, or controlling the built-in looper.
4. Built-In Looper:
   This pedal includes a built-in looper with up to 30 minutes of recording time, enabling you to create layered textures or practice loops on the fly.
5. MIDI Control Capability:
   With MIDI connectivity options, the Voluum can be integrated into complex setups or controlled via MIDI devices for seamless integration with other gear.

Lehle Mono Volume Pedal S

The Lehle Mono Volume Pedal S is a high-quality volume pedal known for its precision, durability, and silent operation. Crafted in Germany, this professional-grade pedal is built to deliver consistent performance over time.

Key Features:

1. Crystal-Clear Sound: The Mono Volume Pedal S features Lehle’s innovative optical sensor technology, which ensures exceptional audio quality and precise volume control without any unwanted noise or tonal coloration.
2. Rugged Construction: This volume pedal is constructed with top-grade components and a rugged metal chassis for reliable performance in demanding live situations.
3. Wide Dynamic Range: With its wide frequency range, the Mono Volume Pedal S is suitable for use with virtually any instrument or signal source, from guitars and basses to keyboards and other line-level devices.
4. Switchable Minimum Level: The switchable minimum level feature allows you to set a minimum volume level when the pedal is fully rocked back. This ensures consistency in your sound even at lower volume settings.
5. Adjustable Pedal Resistance:
   The pedal resistance can be easily adjusted to your preferred feel – whether you prefer a light touch or more resistance.

Dunlop DVP5

The Dunlop DVP5 is a versatile volume/expression pedal that offers smooth operation and multiple control options, making it suitable for various musical scenarios.

Key Features:

1. Dual Operation Modes: The DVP5 can be used as both a volume pedal and an expression pedal, allowing you to switch between controlling your instrument’s volume or manipulating various effect parameters.
2. Internal Controls:
   This pedal features internal controls that allow you to adjust the minimum volume level and the rocker tension to suit your preferences.
3. Durable Construction:
   With its robust metal chassis and high-quality components, the DVP5 is built to withstand the rigors of gigging and provide years of reliable performance.
4. Tuner Output:
   The DVP5 includes a dedicated tuner output, allowing you to connect your tuner directly to the pedal, which helps save space on your pedalboard.
5. Customizable Control: The DVP5 provides separate inputs for three control options – regular volume/expression control, heel-down parameter control, and toe-down parameter control. This flexibility allows you to tailor the pedal’s functionality to suit your specific needs.

Also Read: 16 Best Fuzz Pedals In 2024 [Top-rated Gear For Your Guitar Set-up]

Ernie Ball 40th Anniversary Volume Pedal

To celebrate its 40th anniversary, Ernie Ball has released a special edition volume pedal that combines vintage aesthetics with modern performance.

This limited edition pedal pays homage to their original volume pedal design while incorporating new features for improved functionality.

Key Features:

• Vintage-Inspired Design: The Ernie Ball 40th Anniversary Volume Pedal features a retro look, with a sleek silver finish and black components reminiscent of classic Ernie Ball pedals. It adds a touch of nostalgia to your pedalboard setup.
• Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials, this volume pedal is designed to withstand years of use on the road or in the studio. The solid construction ensures reliability and longevity.
• Smooth Taper Control: The 40th Anniversary Volume Pedal offers smooth taper control for precise and natural volume swells. This allows for seamless transitions in your playing dynamics.
• Adjustable Torque: With an adjustable torque screw, you can customize the tension of the footboard to match your playing style and preferences. This feature enhances comfort and control during performances.
• Passive Operation: Like other Ernie Ball volume pedals, the 40th Anniversary model is passive and does not require external power sources. This makes it convenient to use without the need for additional cables or batteries.
• Tuner Output: Equipped with a tuner output jack, this pedal allows you to connect your tuner directly, eliminating the need for an extra tuner pedal on your board. It helps keep your setup clean and organized.

Morley 20/20 Volume Plus

The Morley 20/20 Volume Plus brings advanced features and functionality to the table with its innovative design.

This versatile volume pedal provides precise control over your instrument’s volume while offering additional features that set it apart from other pedals on the market.

Key Features:

• Optical Circuit: The Morley 20/20 Volume Plus incorporates an optical circuitry that ensures smooth and noise-free operation. This eliminates any potential scratching or crackling noises associated with traditional potentiometer-based volume pedals.
• Buffered Output: With its buffered output, this pedal ensures that your instrument’s signal remains strong and unchanged, even when connected to long cable runs or multiple effects pedals. It helps retain the integrity of your tone.
• Switchless Design: The 20/20 Volume Plus features a switchless design, allowing for easy and silent operation. There are no physical switches to engage or disengage, making it convenient to control your volume without any distractions.
• Expression Functionality: In addition to volume control, this pedal offers expression functionality for compatible effects pedals or devices. This expands your creative possibilities by allowing you to control various parameters with the same pedal.
• LED Indicators: Equipped with LED indicators, the 20/20 Volume Plus provides visual feedback on its status, making it easy to see if it’s on or off even in dimly lit environments. This feature enhances ease of use during live performances.

Ernie Ball MVP

The Ernie Ball MVP is a versatile volume pedal that combines traditional volume control with an added boost function for extra flexibility on stage.

Key Features:

• Minimum Volume Control: The MVP features a minimum volume control knob that allows you to set a predetermined minimum level. This is particularly useful when switching from rhythm to lead playing, ensuring a consistent volume level across different parts of your performance.
• Boost Function: In addition to serving as a volume pedal, the MVP offers up to +20dB of clean boost. This added functionality allows you to emphasize certain sections of your playing or cut through the mix when needed.
• Tuner Output: The tuner output jack on the MVP allows you to connect your tuner directly, eliminating the need for an additional tuner pedal. This feature helps keep your setup tidy and reduces cable clutter.
• Smooth Taper Control: With its nylon gear drive, the MVP provides smooth taper control for precise and gradual volume swells. This allows for seamless transitions in your playing dynamics, enhancing expressiveness in your performances.
• Durable Construction: Built to withstand heavy use, the Ernie Ball MVP is roadworthy and designed for longevity. It can handle the demands of live performances, ensuring reliability night after night.

BOSS FV-30L

The BOSS FV-30L is a compact and lightweight volume pedal that delivers exceptional performance with its high-quality components and intuitive design. Despite its small footprint, it offers professional-grade features that cater to demanding musicians.

Key Features:

• Low-Impedance Stereo Input/Output: The FV-30L features low-impedance stereo input/output jacks that preserve the integrity of your instrument’s signal. This ensures transparent sound reproduction without any loss of tone or dynamics.
• Space-Saving Design: With its compact size, the FV-30L takes up minimal space on your pedalboard. It is perfect for musicians who value efficiency and want to maximize their setup options without sacrificing functionality.
• Mono Mode Capability: Although primarily designed for stereo signals, the FV-30L also has a mono mode option available via internal dip switches. This allows you to use it with mono instruments or effects chains without any loss in performance quality.
• Smooth Travel Range: The pedal’s travel range provides precise volume control with smooth operation throughout, allowing for expressive swells and fades in your playing.

Ernie Ball 6165 500K Stereo

The Ernie Ball 6165 500K Stereo volume pedal is specifically designed for guitars and other instruments that utilize stereo outputs. With its reliable performance and stereo functionality, it is an excellent choice for musicians who want to take their tone to the next level.

Key Features:

• 500K Potentiometer: The 6165 features a high-quality 500K potentiometer that ensures smooth and precise volume control. It provides an accurate response to your foot movements, allowing for seamless transitions in your playing dynamics.
• Stereo Inputs/Outputs: This volume pedal is equipped with stereo inputs/outputs, enabling you to connect stereo instruments or effects pedals. It preserves the stereo image of your signal and enhances the depth and dimension of your tone.
• Passive Operation: Like other Ernie Ball volume pedals, the 6165 is passive and does not require external power sources. This makes it convenient to use without the need for additional cables or batteries.
• Durable Construction: The 6165 is built with roadworthy construction, designed to withstand intensive use on stage or in the studio. Its solid build quality ensures reliability so that you can focus on your performance without any worries.

Also Read: 15 Best Octave Pedals [Take Your Music To New Heights]

Ernie Ball 6166 250K Mono

The Ernie Ball 6166 250K Mono volume pedal is a fantastic choice for guitarists looking to have precise control over their instrument’s volume. This pedal is built with high-quality materials and features a sleek design that will complement any pedalboard setup.

Key Features:

• Smooth Taper Control: The Ernie Ball 6166 offers smooth taper control, allowing for precise and gradual volume swells.
• Passive Design: As a passive volume pedal, the Ernie Ball 6166 does not require external power sources. This means you can simply plug it in and start rocking without worrying about batteries or additional cables.
• Durable Construction: Built with roadworthy construction, this volume pedal is ready to withstand the demands of regular use on stage or in the studio. Its sturdy metal chassis ensures longevity and reliability.
• 250K Ohm Potentiometer: The 250K ohm impedance of the potentiometer makes the Ernie Ball 6166 compatible with a wide range of guitars and amplifiers. It delivers a smooth and even response throughout its range.
• Mono Design: With its mono design, this volume pedal provides one input and one output jack, making it easy to integrate into your existing guitar rig.

Lehle Mono Volume Pedal

The Lehle Mono Volume Pedal is a versatile volume control solution that offers exceptional build quality and performance for musicians looking to fine-tune their instrument’s output.

Key Features:

• Studio-Quality Operation: The Lehle Mono Volume Pedal features high-quality components that deliver transparent sound reproduction with no coloration or signal loss. Rest assured that your instrument’s tone will remain intact when using this pedal.
• Smooth and Precise Control: With its precise potentiometer, this volume pedal offers smooth and accurate volume control throughout its sweep. You can easily achieve gradual swells or sudden cutoffs, depending on your playing style.
• Selectable Active or Passive Operation: The Lehle Mono Volume Pedal allows you to choose between active and passive operation modes. This flexibility means you can tailor the pedal’s response to your specific needs and equipment.
• Rugged Construction: Built with rugged metal housing, the Lehle Mono Volume Pedal is designed to withstand the rigors of live performances. Its durability ensures reliability on stage or in the studio.
• Mono Design: This volume pedal offers a mono design with one input and one output jack, making it compatible with any guitar setup.

Mission Engineering Helix

The Mission Engineering Helix is a high-quality volume/expression pedal specifically designed for use with Line 6 Helix systems.

Key Features:

• Customized for Line 6 Helix: The Mission Engineering Helix is engineered to seamlessly integrate with Line 6 Helix systems, providing accurate and responsive control over various parameters.
• Dual Functionality: This pedal serves as both a volume control and an expression pedal, allowing you to adjust not only your instrument’s volume but also control parameters on compatible effects units.
• Optical Sensor: Equipped with an optical sensor, the Mission Engineering Helix ensures smooth operation without any unwanted noise or mechanical wear associated with traditional potentiometer-based pedals.
• Compact Design: With its compact size, this pedal is perfect for musicians who want to save space on their pedalboard without sacrificing functionality.
• Roadworthy Construction: The Mission Engineering Helix features a rugged metal chassis that can withstand regular use on stage. It is built to last and provide reliable performance.

Line 6 EX-1

The Line 6 EX-1 is an expression pedal designed for use with Line 6 guitar amplifiers and multi-effect units, providing precise control over a wide range of parameters.

Key Features:

• Expression Control: The Line 6 EX-1 allows you to control various parameters on compatible Line 6 devices, such as the Spider Valve MkII amp series or POD HD series multi-effect units.
• Durable Construction: The EX-1 is built with a sturdy metal construction that can handle the demands of live performances. It is designed to withstand the rigors of foot usage and provide long-lasting performance.
• Compact Size: With its compact size, this expression pedal fits easily on any pedalboard. It also features a built-in rubber base for added stability during use.
• Smooth Operation: Equipped with high-quality components, the Line 6 EX-1 provides smooth and accurate control over your instrument’s parameters.
• Compatibility: The Line 6 EX-1 is compatible with a wide range of Line 6 products, making it a versatile choice for musicians using Line 6 amplifiers or multi-effect units.

BOSS FV-500L

The BOSS FV-500L is a robust volume pedal designed for professional musicians looking for unmatched durability and reliability.

Key Features:

• Stereo Input/Output: The FV-500L features stereo input/output jacks that preserve the integrity of your instrument’s signal. This ensures transparent sound reproduction without any loss in quality.
• Low-Impedance Design: With its low-impedance design, this volume pedal smoothly handles various signal levels and impedance-matching needs. It provides consistent performance across different equipment setups.
• Heavy-Duty Construction: Built with a rugged aluminum chassis, the FV-500L is designed to withstand demanding live performances. Its durable construction ensures longevity and reliability on stage or in the studio.
• Expression Output: The expression output jack allows you to connect additional compatible pedals or devices for expanded control over various parameters, adding even more versatility to your setup.
• Adjustable Pedal Feel Control: The FV-500L allows you to adjust the pedal’s feel, providing customized control over volume dynamics. This feature lets you fine-tune the pedal’s response to suit your playing style.

FAQs About Volume Pedals

Conclusion

Choosing the best volume pedal in 2023 is a matter of personal preference and specific needs.

The Ernie Ball VP Jr., BOSS FV-500H, and Morley PLA Steve Vai Little Alligator Optical Volume Pedal all offer outstanding performance and durability.

Additionally, the Ernie Ball MVP and Valeton EP-2 provide unique features such as minimum volume control and dual functionality as both a volume and expression pedal.

Whatever your musical genre or instrument, investing in a high-quality volume pedal will undoubtedly elevate your performance by giving you precise control over your sound dynamics.