Best Guitar Volume & Expression Effects of 2025

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Guitar volume and expression effects are essential tools for guitar players looking to add depth and emotion to their music. These effects pedals allow guitarists to control the volume and dynamics of their playing, from subtle swells to explosive solos. Some popular volume and expression pedals include the Boss FV-500H, Dunlop DVP3 Volume (X), and Ernie Ball VP Jr. These pedals are built to withstand the rigors of touring and offer a range of features to suit any playing style. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, a good volume or expression pedal can take your guitar playing to the next level.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Guitar Volume & Expression Effects
SONICAKE Vexpress Pedal: Passive Volume & Expression Control
The SONICAKE Vexpress Pedal is a versatile and compact pedal that combines the functionality of two pedals in one- passive volume control and expression control. It works with a variety of musical instruments, including guitar, bass, keyboard, synthesizer, workstation, and controller. The pedal automatically detects the functionality- volume or expression control. It's lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry around and use anywhere without battery or pedal power supply.
Donner Viper 2-in-1 Volume/Expression Pedal
The Donner Viper Pedal is a versatile 2-in-1 pedal that combines a passive volume pedal and an expression pedal in one compact unit. With automatic switching between volume and expression modes, this pedal is suitable for a range of instruments like guitar, bass, keyboard, and more. Its enduring hard plastic casing ensures durability without adding weight, making it convenient for gigs and rehearsals. Additionally, this pedal doesn't require a power supply, simply plug in and play without any hassle.
Ernie Ball 250K VP JR Volume Pedal
The Ernie Ball 250K VP JR Volume Pedal is a guitar volume and expression effect that features a 250k potentiometer, designed for use with passive signals. This pedal allows you to control the volume of your guitar or other passive instrument, and can also be used as an expression pedal with compatible devices.
Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal
The Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal is designed to control volume levels and FX parameters with ease. Its Low Friction Band-Drive ensures smooth and durable performance, making it a reliable addition to your gear. Additionally, the AUX output provides switchable tuner/expression functionality, allowing you to use it for different purposes.
JIM DUNLOP DVP5 Volume Pedal
The JIM DUNLOP Volume Pedal, model DVP5, is a compact 8'' pedal designed in collaboration with Pedaltrain for seamless integration with various pedalboards. It allows you to create smooth volume swells and effortlessly control FX parameters. The patented Low Friction Band-Drive ensures durability for long-lasting performance. With Volume, FX, Output, and Tuner jacks, this pedal offers versatility and convenience for guitarists seeking precise control over their sound.
Hotone 2 in 1 Volume/Expression Guitar Pedal
This Hotone guitar pedal combines two functions in one device, allowing you to control both volume and expression with precision and ease. Its high-quality potentiometer guarantees accurate response and long life, while its passive design means it requires no external power source. With independent output jacks for volume and expression, this pedal is versatile and compatible with a range of instruments and multi-effects pedals.
Line 6 EX-1 Pedal
The Line 6 Expression Pedal is a versatile tool for musicians looking to enhance their sound. With two preset options, you can easily switch between different settings to suit your performance needs. The pitch control feature allows you to adjust the tone in real-time, giving you the freedom to express your creativity. Custom wah effects can be tailored to your liking, adding unique flair to your play. Plus, its durable construction ensures that this pedal can withstand the rigors of frequent use, making it a reliable choice for any guitarist.
BOSS Ev-30 Expression Pedal
The BOSS Ev-30 Pedal is designed for those who want a compact and durable expression pedal. Its rugged aluminum body ensures longevity while providing a smooth and silky feel for precise control over your settings. You can easily manage two devices simultaneously, thanks to its isolated dual expression outputs. Each output also features independent range adjustments, allowing you to customize the response for different devices. This versatility makes it ideal for musicians using stomp boxes, multi-effects units, keyboards, and MIDI controllers.
MORLEY 20/20 Volume Plus Pedal
The MORLEY 20/20 Volume Plus is a pedalboard-friendly sized guitar volume and expression effects pedal made in the USA. Its optical circuitry prevents wear and tear, and its smooth audio taper is perfect for swells. The pedal also features a minimum volume control and glow-in-the-dark treadle rubber for easy use in any lighting conditions.
Fender Tread-Light Volume/Expression Pedal
The Fender Volume Pedal is an analog pedal with a unique 3-way frequency selector that allows you to adjust your sound precisely. It features an under-treadle LED for clear visibility on dark stages. The switchable internal buffer ensures consistent sound quality. This pedal is perfect for controlling volume or adding expressive effects to your music. The LED makes it easy to see your settings, and the buffer maintains your tone integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does a volume expression pedal do?
A volume expression pedal is a device that allows guitarists to control the volume of their guitar signal with a foot-operated movement. It is one type of expression pedal that can alter various aspects of sound from an instrument, including volume and tone.
2. Can you use a volume pedal as an expression pedal at the same time?
Yes, a volume pedal can be used as an expression pedal for other effects units. It can be easily rigged to function as an expression pedal, offering guitarists the flexibility to control different effects with the same pedal.
3. Can I use an expression pedal on any pedal?
To use an expression pedal, you need to have an effect pedal that is "expression-ready" and has an expression-pedal input jack. The expression pedal does not directly affect your sound but remotely controls adjustable parameters on compatible pedals or devices.
4. What is the best use of an expression pedal?
Expression pedals are commonly used to control variable parameters on electronic music equipment such as digital amplifiers, rack effects, stomp boxes, MIDI controllers, and keyboards. They do not contribute to the sound themselves but allow for real-time manipulation of specific aspects of the connected device.
5. Why use an expression pedal?
Using an expression pedal, particularly with effects like delay, provides the ability to control parameters such as blend, modulation rate, modulation depth, feedback, and delay time. This allows guitarists to dynamically manipulate the effectiveness of the effects on their signal and create unique sounds.
6. Does the volume pedal go before or after the loop?
In most cases, the volume pedal is placed after the effects loop. This means it is connected after the effects send of the amplifier. However, the placement of pedals can vary depending on personal preference and experimentation. Some guitarists may choose to try different arrangements to achieve desired tones.
During our guitar volume & expression effect research, we found 24 guitar volume & expression effect products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 23,412 customer reviews through our big data system to write the guitar volume & expression effects list. We found that most customers choose guitar volume & expression effects with an average price of $110.28.
The guitar volume & expression effects are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of guitar volume & expression effects, including SONICAKE, Donner, Ernie Ball, JIM DUNLOP, HOTONE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 170 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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.
Guitar Volume & Expression Effects Comparison Table
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Brand | SONICAKE | Donner | Ernie Ball | JIM DUNLOP | JIM DUNLOP | HOTONE | Line 6 | BOSS | MORLEY | Fender |
Item Weight | 7 ounces | 9.9 ounces | 1.32 pounds | 1.42 pounds | 1 pounds | 430 Grams | 1 pounds | 1.96 pounds | 2.07 pounds | 1.85 pounds |
Signal Format | Analog | Analog | Analog | Analog | Analog | - | Analog | Analog | Analog | Analog |
Voltage | 9 Volts | 9 Volts | 240 Volts | 9 Volts | 9 Volts | - | 9 Volts | 9 Volts | 9 Volts | 9 Volts |
Style | Bass,Synthesizer,Expression | Bass,Synthesizer,Expression,Mini | 250K VP JR | Expression,Mini | Expression | Multi-effects,Multi Effects,Expression | Wah,Expression | Compact | Wah,Distortion,Overdrive | - |
Color Name | Vexpress - EXP Volume 2 in 1 | Expression Volume | Brushed Aluminum | black | Black | - | - | Blue | Green | Black |
Color | Vexpress - EXP Volume 2 in 1 | Expression Volume | Brushed Aluminum | black | Black | Black | - | Blue | Green | - |
Hardware Interface | 1/4-inch Audio | USB 2.0 Type B | USB 2.0 Type B | 1/4-inch Audio | - | - | 1/4-inch Audio | USB | 1/4-inch Audio | - |
Power Source | Battery Powered | Non-battery Powered | Corded Electric | - | - | - | DC power supply | Corded Electric | Corded Electric | - |
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