Volume and Expression pedals are two distinct types of pedals used in guitar rigs, offering different functionalities and purposes.
Volume Pedals
Functionality:
- Volume Control: A volume pedal functions as a foot-operated device to control the guitar’s output volume. It allows gradual adjustment of volume levels without having to adjust the guitar’s volume knob manually.
Why Use One:
- Dynamic Swells: Guitarists use volume pedals for creating dynamic swells, fades, or volume changes during performances, especially useful in ambient or cinematic-style music.
- Hands-Free Control: It enables guitarists to control the volume hands-free, allowing for smooth transitions between different sections of a song or for emphasizing specific passages.
Examples and Artists:
- Ernie Ball VP Jr. Ernie Ball volume pedal: Known for its durable construction and smooth volume swells.
- Boss FV-500H/FV-500L: Boss volume pedal Offers stereo capability and can also be used for keyboards or other instruments.
- Musicians: Jeff Beck, David Gilmour (Pink Floyd), and Andy Summers (The Police) are some artists known for using volume pedals in their setups.
Expression Pedals
Functionality:
- Control Parameter Changes: An expression pedal is used to control various parameters (such as volume, modulation rate, delay feedback, etc.) in compatible effects pedals or units.
- Variable Control: It enables the musician to vary the effect’s intensity or parameter in real-time through foot movement.
Why Use One:
- Real-Time Control: Expression pedals allow real-time control over specific effects parameters, adding expressiveness and depth to a guitarist’s playing.
- Creative Manipulation: They offer the flexibility to manipulate effects such as wah, pitch, modulation depth, or delay feedback in a way that enhances the musical performance.
Examples and Artists:
- Ernie Ball VP Jr. expression pedal: Can function as both a volume and an expression pedal, offering versatility.
- Mission Engineering EP-1: Known for its sturdy construction and compatibility with various effect units.
- Musicians: Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, and John Mayer are among the artists known for using expression pedals to control various effects and parameters in their setups.
Conclusion
Volume and Expression pedals are essential tools that offer guitarists enhanced control over their sound. While volume pedals primarily control the guitar’s output volume, expression pedals allow for dynamic manipulation of specific effect parameters, enabling a guitarist to add depth, expression, and creativity to their playing. The choice of pedal largely depends on a guitarist’s playing style, musical preferences, and the specific effects they wish to control.