10 Best Volume Pedals 2025 in the United States

The Ernie Ball 40th Anniversary Volume Pedal is a compact and stylish option for musicians seeking quality volume control. One of its standout features is its compatibility with both active and passive signals, making it versatile for different setups. The inclusion of a switchable taper allows users to choose between two swell rates, providing flexibility in performance settings. Additionally, the improved Kevlar cord enhances the precision of volume adjustments, a significant plus for fine-tuning sound during play.

In terms of build quality, this pedal seems well-constructed with its limited edition black finish adding a touch of elegance. It operates without needing a power source, which is quite convenient for on-the-go musicians or those who want to keep their rig simple.

There are a couple of considerations to keep in mind. While it boasts a solid design, some users might find the size slightly bulkier compared to other models, which could impact portability. Its performance can vary based on the user's specific gear and preferences, so it may not cater to everyone's needs.

The SONICAKE Passive Volume & Expression EXP Pedal is a versatile and compact solution for musicians needing both volume and expression control in one device. Its passive design means it operates without the need for a battery or external power supply, making it convenient and easy to incorporate into any setup. The pedal can automatically detect whether it should function as a volume or expression pedal, which adds a lot of flexibility, particularly for those who use multiple instruments like guitar, bass, keyboard, or synthesizer.

This makes it suitable for a wide range of users, from guitarists to keyboard players, and even those using workstations and controllers. One of its primary strengths is its lightweight and compact design, weighing just 0.2 kilograms and measuring 5.85 inches in length. This makes it highly portable and easy to fit into any pedalboard setup. Additionally, the build quality appears to be solid, which is a plus for musicians who are often on the go.

However, being a passive pedal, its impedance might not match perfectly with all setups, which could affect the signal quality in some cases. Also, while the compact size is great for portability, it might not be as comfortable for players with larger feet or those who prefer larger pedals. In summary, the SONICAKE Passive Volume & Expression EXP Pedal is an excellent choice for musicians looking for a dual-function, portable, and easy-to-use pedal, although its passive design and small size may not suit everyone's specific needs.

The Black Mountain Mini Volume Pedal is designed to enhance volume expression for various musicians, whether playing electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bass, or keyboard. One of its standout features is the unique freewheel design, which allows for smooth volume fades and swells, making it easy to control your sound during performances. The numeric indicators are a great addition, providing clear visibility of your volume level, which is particularly helpful for quick adjustments on stage.

As a compact pedal, it saves valuable space on your pedalboard, making it an excellent choice for musicians who need to travel light without sacrificing functionality. Its passive electronics and tuner output make it versatile for different setups, accommodating both simple and complex configurations.

On the durability front, the pedal is built to withstand rigorous use, ensuring it remains reliable during performances. Its robust construction can handle substantial pressure, which is a big plus for gigging musicians. The ability to switch between linear and audio tapers is a great feature, but it might be slightly overwhelming for beginners who are not accustomed to adjusting these settings.