10 Best Volume Pedals 2025 in the United States

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 HOTONE SP-30T is a versatile volume pedal that combines four useful functions into one compact unit: volume control, expression control, a built-in tuner, and a buffer switch. This makes it a great choice for guitarists who want to save space on their pedalboard while still having multiple tools at their fingertips. One of its strengths is the ability to switch between high and low impedance, which helps maintain your guitar’s natural tone without signal loss. The pedal also features a clear LCD screen that offers different tuning modes, like chromatic and strobe, making tuning quick and precise.

It’s lightweight and built with durable materials, so it should hold up well on the road or in the studio. The pedal runs on a standard 9V power supply and includes a 15 cm TS cable, which is a nice extra. On the downside, while the pedal is sturdy, its compact size might feel a bit small for those used to larger volume pedals, and the multifunction design means it may not be as straightforward as a dedicated volume pedal for beginners. Also, it’s an analog pedal, so if you’re looking for digital effects or advanced programming options, this may not be the right fit.

The HOTONE SP-30T suits players who want a space-saving, multi-functional pedal with solid tone preservation and easy tuning features.

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.