10 Best Wah Pedals 2025 in the UK

The Jim Dunlop Original Crybaby Pedal GCB 95 is renowned in the music industry for its iconic wah sound, having been a staple since the late 1960s. It features a 100k ohm hot potz potentiometer, which allows musicians to achieve a quick and distinctive wah effect, appreciated by legendary guitarists like Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton. In terms of construction, this pedal is built with heavy die-cast material, ensuring robust durability that can withstand years of use, making it a reliable choice for both amateur and professional musicians. However, the pedal's design is quite straightforward, lacking advanced adjustability and features that some modern players might look for, such as multiple effect settings or LED indicators.

The pedal operates using a 9-volt battery or an optional AC adapter, providing flexibility in power options. It should be noted that the battery is sold separately, so users need to factor in this additional cost when purchasing. The pedal's dimensions and weight (1.2 kilograms) reflect a solid build, though it might be slightly bulky for musicians who prefer a lighter setup.

With a sweep range typical of classic wah pedals, the GCB 95 may not offer the expansive variability that some players seek in more contemporary models. Additionally, it utilizes a true bypass system which is generally preferred for maintaining the purity of the guitar's tone when the pedal is not engaged. Given its historical significance and popularity, the Crybaby is ideal for musicians who appreciate traditional tones and reliability over modern gadgetry. However, those seeking more advanced customization and features may want to explore other options. Its best-seller status and positive customer reviews reflect its strong reputation among guitarists who value its classic sound and durable build.

The Dunlop SC95 Slash Cry Baby Classic Wah is designed for guitarists who appreciate the iconic wah effect with a touch of Slash's signature sound. One of its key strengths is its true bypass mode, ensuring your signal remains clear when the pedal is not in use. This is a significant advantage for those who value signal integrity in their pedalboards. The pedal is constructed with durability in mind, featuring a sturdy build that can withstand heavy foot traffic and the rigors of live performances.

The pedal uses analog technology, which is often preferred by musicians seeking a warm, authentic sound. Its adjustability may not be as extensive as some other models, but it still provides a decent sweep range that is typical of classic wah pedals. However, if you're looking for highly customizable features, this might fall slightly short.

A potential drawback is the power requirement, as it needs 18 volts, which is higher than the standard 9 volts that many pedals use. This means you'll need to ensure your power supply is compatible, or it might necessitate purchasing additional gear. Weighing 1.5 kilograms, it is relatively portable, though it may be heavier than some other options. This weight contributes to its durability, which is a plus for frequent gigging musicians. While it operates in mono, which is standard for many wah pedals, it could limit versatility if stereo sound is a priority for your setup.

In summary, the Dunlop SC95 Slash Cry Baby Classic Wah pedal is ideal for guitarists seeking a robust, classic wah sound with Slash's influence. Its durability and true bypass are standout features, though the higher voltage requirement and limited adjustability could be considerations depending on your specific needs.

The SONICAKE Mini Active Wah Volume Effect Guitar Pedal is a compact 2-in-1 device designed for guitarists seeking both volume and wah effects. This pedal stands out with its lightweight yet robust construction, ensuring durability while maintaining portability. Its 100% analog design is appealing to those who favor a traditional, crybaby-style vintage wah sound.

A key feature is the active volume control, which helps prevent impedance mismatch, a common issue that can affect sound quality. Switching between the volume and wah modes is made simple with a hidden footswitch, while two LED lights indicate the current mode of operation. However, the pedal requires an external power supply, which is not included, potentially adding to the overall cost.

Weighing only 280 grams and with modest dimensions, it's an excellent option for those with limited pedalboard space. The pedal’s adjustability might be limited due to its smaller size, which could restrict the sweep range compared to larger models. Its construction from ziricote adds to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Despite being produced in China, it has received positive feedback with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from over 2,300 customer reviews, indicating general satisfaction among users. The pedal is particularly suited for intermediate guitarists, especially those playing rock music, who appreciate a blend of classic wah tones and straightforward volume control in a compact form.