Best Electric Guitar Wah & Filter Effects of 2025

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Electric guitar wah and filter effects are popular among guitarists who want to add unique sounds to their music. The wah effect creates a distinctive sound by altering the tone of the guitar signal, allowing the player to create a "wah-wah" sound. The filter effect, on the other hand, modifies the frequency response of the guitar signal, producing a variety of sounds that can range from subtle to extreme. These effects are achieved through the use of pedals that are connected to the guitar and are controlled by the player's foot. There are many different brands and models of wah and filter pedals available, each with its own unique features and sound.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Cry Baby Standard Wah Cover #TOP 1
Cry Baby Standard Wah
ftb score rating icon 9.9
BOSS AW-3 Wah Pedal Cover #TOP 2
BOSS AW-3 Wah Pedal
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Classic Wah Pedal Bundle Cover #TOP 3
Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Classic Wah Pedal Bundle
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Electric Guitar Wah & Filter Effects

#TOP 1

Cry Baby Standard Wah

GCB95
Black
Cry Baby Standard Wah Cover
JIM DUNLOP Cry Baby Standard Wah (GCB95)

The Cry Baby Standard Wah is a high-quality electric guitar wah and filter effects pedal. With its heavy die cast construction, it is built to last. It can be powered by the Dunlop ECB-03 AC Adapter (not included) and/or a 9-volt battery, making it convenient to use on stage or in the studio. Its compact dimensions of 10" x 4" x 2-1/2" and weight of 3.7 lbs make it easy to transport. The black color gives it a sleek and professional look.

What We Like
Classic wah-wah tone
Durable steel construction
Great for classic rock
Iconic sound effect
Highly recommended by users
What We Don't Like
Large dimensions for small pedalboards
#TOP 2

BOSS AW-3 Wah Pedal

AW-3
Gold
BOSS AW-3 Wah Pedal Cover
Boss AW-3 Dynamic Wah Pedal

The BOSS Wah Pedal is a versatile pedal for guitar and bass players. It features a Wah Envelope Filter that allows you to create expressive wah effects. The Expression Pedal Input lets you control the wah effect in real-time with your foot. With the "Humanizer" Effect, you can simulate vocal sounds, adding a unique touch to your music. The Auto-wah function automatically adjusts the wah effect based on your playing dynamics, giving you a dynamic sound experience.

What We Like
Versatile envelope filter and wah pedal
Compatible with guitar and bass
Customizable settings for unique sounds
Well-engineered and durable design
Great for funk lead and rhythm
What We Don't Like
Controls may require careful adjustment
Learning curve for optimal settings
#TOP 3

Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Classic Wah Pedal Bundle

MXR
GCB95K5
Assorted,Red
Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Classic Wah Pedal Bundle Cover
Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Classic Wah Pedal Bundle with 2 Patch Cables and 6 Assorted Dunlop Picks

The Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Classic Wah Pedal Bundle is a reliable product that delivers the original Cry Baby Wah sound used by legendary guitar players. Its heavy-duty diecast construction ensures durability, and its 100K ohm Hot Potz potentiometer allows for a quick and abrupt wah sound. The bundle also includes 2 6-inch right angle patch cables and 6 Dunlop picks for added convenience.

What We Like
Great tone versatility
Durable and rugged design
Responsive volume control
Classic sound experience
Made in the U.S.A.
What We Don't Like
Subtle hiss when activated
#TOP 4

Donner Mini Auto Wah Pedal

EC1005
Purple Auto Wah
Donner Mini Auto Wah Pedal Cover
Donner Mini Auto Wah Pedal Dynamic Wah Guitar Effect Pedal Envelope Filter True Bypass

The Donner Mini Wah is a versatile envelope filter that enhances your guitar's sound. With its sensitivity control, you can easily adjust how responsive the pedal is to your playing style. The filter sharpness knob allows you to refine your tone, giving you greater control over your sound. The decay feature lets you set how quickly the filter returns to its resting frequency, adding a dynamic touch to your performance. Lastly, the range control helps you define the frequency spectrum of the effect, ensuring it fits perfectly within your music. This pedal is designed to elevate your guitar experience.

What We Like
Sturdy full metal construction
Easy to use and set up
Great price-to-performance ratio
Effective noise reduction
Compact size for pedalboard
What We Don't Like
Minimal audible "pop" sound
#TOP 5

Dunlop Cry Baby Multi-Wah Pedal

535Q
Black
Dunlop Cry Baby Multi-Wah Pedal Cover
JIM DUNLOP 535Q Multi-Wah Guitar Effects Pedal, Adjustable Boost, 6 Wah Ranges, Model 11537002001

The Dunlop Cry Baby Multi-Wah Guitar Effects Pedal provides control over the most important wah parameters, allowing you to select frequency center and range of the effect. It features six new guitar wah ranges, a "Q" dial to shape your wah, and adjustable, switchable boost from 0 to +26 dB. The pedal can be powered by a Dunlop AC adapter or single 9 volt battery and includes a hard wire on/off switch. Model number: 535Q.

What We Like
Versatile sound options
Solid construction quality
Great battery life
Adjustable Q and frequency range
Excellent tonal clarity
What We Don't Like
Minor tightness in pedal action
Small knob size
#TOP 6

JIM DUNLOP DB01B Wah Pedal

DB01B
Black
JIM DUNLOP DB01B Wah Pedal Cover
JIM DUNLOP Effects Pedal (DB01B)

The JIM DUNLOP Wah Pedal offers you six selectable frequency ranges, allowing you to tailor your sound to perfection. You can easily adjust the wah response from wide to narrow using the Q control, giving you versatility in your playing style. The pedal also features a switchable boost that enhances your wah sound, ensuring it stands out in the mix. Additionally, back-mounted LEDs provide clear visibility of the wah and boost status, making it easy for you to see when they're active. This pedal is designed to elevate your performance and enhance your musical expression.

What We Like
Great sound quality
User-friendly controls
True bypass functionality
Versatile tonal range
Visible LED lights
What We Don't Like
Shipping packaging could be better
Occasional reliability issues
#TOP 7

SONICAKE VolWah Active Volume & Wah Pedal

CNSK001FR1
SONICAKE VolWah Active Volume & Wah Pedal Cover
SONICAKE Active Volume & Wah Pedal, Mini 2 in 1 Combo Electric Guitar Effect Pedal with Wah Wah Active Volume Control - VolWah

The SONICAKE VolWah Active Volume & Wah Pedal is an analog 2-in-1 pedal that combines a vintage-style wah sound with an active volume control, all in a lightweight yet robust casing. Its active volume control helps to avoid impedance mismatch troubles, while a hidden footswitch allows users to easily switch between volume and wah modes. The pedal also features two LED lights that indicate which mode it is engaged with (power adapter not included).

What We Like
Compact size
Excellent sound quality
Dual function: volume and wah
Sturdy build
Great price
What We Don't Like
Hiss when wah engaged
Sensitive volume control
#TOP 8

Electro-Harmonix Nano Q-Tron

NANOQTRON
Electro-Harmonix Nano Q-Tron Cover
Electro-Harmonix Nano Q-Tron Envelope Filter Pedal

The Electro-Harmonix Q-Tron Envelope Filter Pedal is designed to enhance your sound with a variety of features. The Drive Control allows you to fine-tune the pedal's sensitivity to your playing style, making it responsive to your dynamics. With the Q Control, you can adjust the filter's peak bandwidth, giving you the ability to create subtle or bold effects. The LP BP HP Mode Switch lets you select which frequency range to emphasize, whether you want to highlight bass, midrange, or treble. Additionally, its compact design makes it ideal for pedalboards, ensuring it fits well in your setup.

What We Like
Rich tonal variety
Excellent for funk music
Volume knob included
Versatile sound options
Great for bass and guitar
What We Don't Like
Potential feedback issues
#TOP 9

VOX V845 Wah Wah Pedal

VOX
V845
black
VOX V845 Wah Wah Pedal Cover
VOX V845 Classic Wah Wah Guitar Effects Pedal

The VOX V845 Wah Wah Pedal is a durable and affordable effects pedal that preserves the classic tone of the original VOX wah-wah pedals. Its die-cast aluminum housing and tough all-black finish make it suitable for life on the road, while the fitted AC power connector saves on batteries. Guitarists can enjoy the same legendary wah-wah tone in a new design based on the vintage VOX pedal from the 1960s.

What We Like
Great sound quality
Sturdy construction
Affordably priced
Unique vintage bypass feature
Wide sweep range
What We Don't Like
Not true bypass
Some muddiness in heel-down position
#TOP 10

Electro-Harmonix Micro Q-Tron

Electro-Harmonix Micro Q-Tron Cover
Electro-Harmonix Micro Q-Tron Envelope Filter Pedal

The Electro-Harmonix Q-Tron is a versatile envelope filter pedal designed for electric guitarists. It features a drive control that allows you to adjust the sensitivity and filter sweep range, giving you the freedom to craft your unique sound. With selectable filter types—low pass, band pass, or high pass—you can choose the tone that best fits your style. The Q control lets you modify the filter's bandwidth, enabling you to create smooth or funky sounds depending on your preference. Its durable and compact die-cast chassis ensures that it can withstand the rigors of performance while being easily transportable.

What We Like
Great sound quality
Easy to use
Versatile for multiple genres
Solid build quality
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Volume increase when engaged
Some initial learning curve
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the wah filter effect?

The wah filter effect, also known as a wah-wah pedal, is an electric guitar effects pedal that alters the tone and frequencies of the guitar signal. It creates a distinctive sound that mimics someone saying "wah wah." Additionally, filter pedals, also known as envelope filters, enhance the guitar tone by adding or removing specific frequencies.

2. What is the difference between an auto wah and a filter?

Auto wah pedals and envelope filters are often used interchangeably. Technically, most auto wah effect pedals are actually envelope filters. The main difference is that auto wahs are timing or rhythm-based effects, while envelope filters are triggered by volume changes.

3. Should the wah pedal go before or after effects?

In an electric guitar signal chain, it is recommended to place filter effects like the wah pedal before gain effects like distortion pedals. This ensures that the wah pedal, being a filter effect, is placed before any gain effects to achieve the desired sound.

4. What is an example of a filter effect?

Filter effects can include various visual manipulations such as blurring, changing color intensity, or warping an image. However, in the context of electric guitar effects, filter effects refer to pedals that alter the frequency response of the guitar signal, like wah-wah or envelope filters.

5. What is the difference between T wah and Auto Wah?

The main difference between a T wah and an auto wah is in how the envelope sweep is controlled. A T wah pedal's envelope sweep is controlled by the position of the foot pedal, while an auto wah reacts dynamically to volume changes coming into the pedal.

6. What is the difference between a wah-wah and a whammy pedal?

A wah-wah pedal is an envelope filter that oscillates between mid-low and mid-high frequencies, creating a wah effect. On the other hand, a whammy pedal is a digital pitch-shifting device that duplicates the guitar signal and changes the pitch by adjusting the sampling rate. While both pedals can produce unique effects, they function differently.

7. Do you put fuzz before wah or wah before fuzz?

The placement of fuzz and wah pedals in the signal chain can affect the resulting sound. Placing the fuzz before the wah pedal intensifies the wah effect, as the fuzz increases the harmonic material for the wah filter to work on. Placing the fuzz after the wah pedal reduces the dramatic effect of the wah but may introduce frequency peaks in the fuzz tone as the wah is swept.

Editor's Notes

During our electric guitar wah & filter effect research, we found 24 electric guitar wah & filter effect products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 113,089 customer reviews through our big data system to write the electric guitar wah & filter effects list. We found that most customers choose electric guitar wah & filter effects with an average price of $107.83.

The electric guitar wah & filter effects are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of electric guitar wah & filter effects, including JIM DUNLOP, BOSS, MXR, Donner, SONICAKE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Joseph Hubbard Avatar

Joseph Hubbard is a music producer and runs a musical instrument store in Chicago. Joseph is happy to help others choose the instrument that best suits their needs. He loves everything related to music and often publishes articles related to music on key websites.

Electric Guitar Wah & Filter Effects Comparison Table

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Brand JIM DUNLOP BOSS MXR Donner JIM DUNLOP JIM DUNLOP SONICAKE Electro-Harmonix VOX Electro-Harmonix
Voltage 9.00 9 Volts 9 Volts 9 Volts 9 Volts 9 Volts 9 Volts 9 Volts 9 Volts (AC) 9 Volts
Style Pedal only Bass,Expression,Filter,Wah Wah,Expression Wah,Filter,Mini Pedal Wah Active Filter V845 Classic Wah Wah Pedal Filter
Item Weight 2.64 pounds 1.1 pounds 1.05 pounds 8.8 ounces 2.47 ounces 1.1 pounds 9.9 ounces - 1 pounds 15.2 ounces
Signal Format Analog Analog Analog Analog Analog Analog Analog - Analog Analog
Power Source Battery Powered Battery Powered, AC Adapter Electric Adapter Battery Powered Battery Powered, DC Power Supply External power supply - Corded Electric Battery Powered
Color Name Black Gold Assorted,Red Purple Auto Wah Black Black VolWah - Wah Volume 2 in 1 - black -
Color Black Gold Assorted,Red Purple Auto Wah Black Black VolWah - Wah Volume 2 in 1 - black -
Hardware Interface 1/4-inch Audio USB - - 1/4-inch Audio 1/4-inch Audio 1/4-inch Audio - 1/4-inch Audio 1/4-inch Audio
Batteries 1 9V batteries required. 1 9V batteries required. (included) - - 1 9V batteries required. - - - 1 9V batteries required. 1 9V batteries required.
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy