Don't Make These VOLUME PEDAL Mistakes!

Most guitarists have a love/hate relationship with volume pedals. But with a few helpful tips, you can make any volume pedal sound and function exactly how you want it to. Today, I'm teaching you everything you need to know about volume pedals: the different types, signal path placement, and my top recommendations.
If you know of a high quality volume pedal that we didn't mention in this video, tell us in the comments below!
Table of Contents
00:00 Introduction
00:34 Volume Pedals
01:34 What is a Volume Pedal, Really?
02:44 Types of Volume Pedals
05:55 Make any Volume Pedal Active
06:46 Volume Pedal Placement
07:04 Position 1: Before Overdrive
09:24 Position 1: Sound Example
10:05 Pros and Cons to Position 1
11:31 Position 2: After Overdrive
13:11 Position 2: Sound Example
13:56 Pros and Cons to Position 2
14:52 Position 3: In Amp FX Loop
16:49 Position 3: Sound Example
17:23 Pros and Cons to Position 3
18:11 What Did We Learn?
19:51 A Warning Against “Tuner Out”s
21:13 Thanks for Watching!
22:18 Support Us!
⬇️ MY RECOMMENDED VOLUME PEDALS ⬇️
Vertex Boost (active) - bit.ly/3JbXguO
Dunlop Volume X8 (high impedance) - bit.ly/3S3hc71
Lehle Mono Volume Pedal (active) - bit.ly/3b6keqm
Lehle Stereo Volume Pedal (active) - bit.ly/3zzihfy
Boss FV-500L (low impedance) - bit.ly/3vm9SJV
Boss FV-500H (high impedance) - bit.ly/3otQDKN
Ernie Ball VP JR 250K (high impedance)- bit.ly/3OKCzHy
Ernie Ball VP JR 25K (low impedance) - bit.ly/3PDCaYy
⬇ GET A ONE-ON-ONE TONE CONSULTATION WITH THE RIG DR. ⬇
bit.ly/2WhiliW
FOLLOW US
Instagram: / vertexeffects
Tik Tok: / vertexeffects
Facebook: / vertexeffectsinc
Website: vertexeffects.com
⬇BUY VERTEX PEDALS⬇
bit.ly/3kkZPOT
⬇PODCAST⬇
//apple// apple.co/36dSQzK
//spotify// spoti.fi/2WGLku8
⬇DIY BUFFER DIAGRAMS & TEMPLATES⬇
bit.ly/3gu02hU
⬇RECOMMENDED MATERIALS⬇
//buffers// bit.ly/3kpcFf0
//pedalboards// bit.ly/3B9DVFk
//power supply// bit.ly/3B9aD9D
//cables// bit.ly/3jktF7b
//cable & pedal management// bit.ly/3mCJxUe
//pedalboard tools// bit.ly/3B7AEGq
CREDITS:
Host/Co-Production: Mason Marangella
Video: Nico Sotomayor
Video Editing: Victor San Pedro
Co-Production/Design: Mason Mejia
Audio Engineering: Hunter Harrison
#volumepedals #guitarpedals #electricguitar

[@VertexEffectsInc]

If you know of a high quality volume pedal that we didn't mention in this video, tell us in the comments below!

[@teddyrock5677]

Did you ever used the Custom Volume Pedal from A3 Stompbox? These are Korean handmade and I heard many players buys one after their gig in Korea.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@teddyrock5677 Never have.

[@TheGuitarBling]

Thoughts on Mission Engineerings VM-Pro? It's active and still doesn't have a tuner out. I have one and I've been wondering if the buffer is any good.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@TheGuitarBling what are the specs of the buffer?

[@TheGuitarBling]

@@VertexEffectsInc Here's what's on the website. Honestly, I don't know how to interpret it. Input impedance 1V at 1KHz: Standard: 1M Ohm PZ: 10M Ohm Output Impedance @ 1KHz Normal Mode: 30 Ohm Fuzz Compatibility Mode: 10K Ohm

[@Drtydeeds]

Doing the Lord's work, Mason. The guitar community as a whole is getting better with your help and insight.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏

[@davelouis4004]

argggg!

[@Boomsterblak]

Mason Marangella you get a five star award..hardest working..informative..my rig has never sounded better..you can be proud of your work..much appreciated .Lehle looks cool.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Wow, thanks!

[@nuthinbutlove]

I'm delving back into the pedal world and I've been living on KZbin the last few months. I've learned more from your vids than any others. Your intellectual approach is much appreciated!

[@Thomas-pq4ys]

Not knowing active from passive, I bought the Ernie Ball MVP, which you don't mention. I was suprised that it needed power... I used it with with a Tele, and was amazed at the amount of control I had... I play clean Country twang, but also Blues, with just a tad of hair. The guitar's volume acted like a gain control... I have the volume pedal between the compressor and overdrive (Vertex Clean Drive). This is a match made in heaven for this Americana picker... I will experiment with placement...

[@pkflash2004]

Hi Mason. I've always had a problem using a volume pedal due to the tone suck. About a year ago I bought a Vertex Boost MkII and all my problems were solved. I use a VP JR from the TRS jack of the boost and use the volume pedal's tuner out. No loss of tone, great volume swells, an always on tuner when needed and no problems whatsoever. You have a great product that I couldn't recommend any higher!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks so much for the support!

[@stickman55100]

Another great video! There’s a reason you’re the Rig Doctor!!! So helpful and thorough!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Wow, thanks!

[@jamesnichols5998]

I didn't understand this nearly as well as I do now! I'm running option #2 - guitar (passive) > morning glory > dunlop x But now I know how much using the pot interacts with that combo. Thanks so much Mason!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Excellent!

[@peterbennett4783]

Thanks so very much for your time and effort! Forty years as a pro and I didn't know that the tuner out on a passive Volume Pedal split the signal adversely. Kind regards from Peter (Australia)

[@78tag]

yea - one would think the manufacturers might mention that in the product info. Seems kinda chicken shit to me. I guess we were expected to know that.

[@jpistolas]

Words don't express how much I covet that PRS. I love mine but that needs to sit right beside it. Thanks for the video on vol medals. Esp the Dunlop. I've been interested in one. Good reviews & I like the size.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching!

[@jackgreenwood1817]

Cool stuff! I've found a standard, passive volume pedal works surprisingly well (no tone suck) when placed straight after a buffer

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes, the buffer can help, ideally you use a low impedance passive volume pedal for best results after a buffer

[@GeorgeFN]

Damn, I just learned something important. I have a Dunlop Volume X mounted on the right hand side of my board just as an expression controller for my Keeley Halo. BUT, for ease of connection I'm running my guitar into it and using the TUNER OUT into the rest of my chain. Oops. Will adjust accordingly. Thanks Mason :)

[@zandig666]

Great vid bud ! It helped me in my recent vol pedal selection choice !!!!!!!

[@Dbj5555555]

I use a passive volume after the buffer of boost pedals and it works great. I like the 250k pot feel in the pedal.

[@dude_crush_]

The Morley Little Alligator Volume Pedal is pretty good. It's Active and has a Level Knob to adjust the Level when the heel is down. I used it in the Effects Loop and it worked great. You can set the knob on the volume pedal to give you a rhythm guitar volume when the heel is down, otherwise you can use it as a master volume in the effects loop.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Even some passive volume pedals have this, like the Boss FV series pedals with min/max volume. Not too uncommon. The issue with effects loop is none of them are the same, Morley could work in one, but not in the next ten amps you try or own. The buffer in it isn't amazing so you will also get some clipping in some situations as it can handle the swing of some effects loops.

[@dude_crush_]

@@VertexEffectsInc Wow, that's really good to know! Thanks 🙏

[@amphitheatre]

14:25 that is my setup. basically what you're coming at is that this option gives you two stages of gain and still allows me to do the first option if i want using the pot on the gtr.

[@jjnolan]

Xotic makes both high and low impedance pedals. I have the the low version and it works great.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Cool! Enjoy!

[@grahamnunn8998]

It's funny, I was doing the four cable method back in 1983 with a Peavey Deuce. The trouble is I was using crappy Schaller Volume pedals, things were not so sophisticated back then and we did not have guys like you who knew the science Jason!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching!

[@Seriouslycantplayguitar]

Love my FV30L, one of the best additions to my pedalboard.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Great!!!

[@scottsamiya2639]

I run a g12-65 in my church amp! Love that speaker.

[@78tag]

I know you are proud of your amp and all, but what does that have to do with volume pedals if I might ask? Wouldn't a comment like that be more appropriate in a chat or a blog or a vlog or facebook or a social club where no one sticks to a subject?

[@bryanp8010]

My volume pedal has been in the wrong place for years driving me nuts! Great video. I’ll go move it to after my drives now.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Hope it helps!

[@ljosdreki]

Hey Mason thank you for sharing your knowledge on this sensitive matter. I’ve been using a volume pedal to change the gain(clean/dirt) and volume on my drives for years using an acoustic guitar with an active magnetic pickup. I’ve had the Ernie ball 25k and liked the taper on that the best like you but it’s heavy(flights) and maybe not the right impedance?!? I also have the mini Dunlop that I think is terrible. I have the same pedalboard for doing shows with the active pu acoustic and passive dearmond electric. First in my chain is the tuner tc polytune => fv50H=>fatboost=>barbershop=delays-reverbs etc…. My questions are: does the buffer in the tuner matter? Is that the right volume pedal? Should I have the tuner after my drives?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes, 25K Low Impedance would be correct if you have active pickups on your acoustic or a preamp. The buffer in the tuner won't do much if you have active pickups already in the acoustic, but you'd want to change your VP to the "L" version not the "H" version (high impedance). Tuner is in the right place, being first.

[@ljosdreki]

@@VertexEffectsInc thank you🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@devonje_anderson]

I just subscribed! I didn’t realize that I wasn’t already subscribed.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for double checking!!!

[@shoominati23]

I'm trying with all my gigging guitars right now is, I just have one knob on the whole guitar - Tone and I have a volume pedal in front of my effects rack instead of on the guitar - it's all about uninterupted signal path.. some people like to do volume swells with their playing finger, but I find the pedal does it all the same. It's usually volume people have when they go for 1 knob, but I find you really need tone more often if you play a wide encompassing style of music like I do...

[@VertexEffectsInc]

That'd be a custom guitar to get the tone knob on the floor if you wanted to have the same position of the tone and volume control relative to the output jack.

[@shoominati23]

@@VertexEffectsInc Reread my comment, I said the tone knob is, and is alone on the guitar. The sole purpose of having the volume pedal is because there ISN'T one on the guitar :)

[@woodsnstrings]

Donner sent me their Vowel Mini wah pedal to demo on my channel. It's a dual mode, meaning it's both a wah and a buffered active volume pedal. I keep a passive volume in my FX loop (after mods and before time) for clean dynamics, but this one at the front of my chain in volume mode to act as a buffer when I'm not using it as a wah (I prefer my early 90s WH-10 for the insane sweep and responsiveness).

[@VertexEffectsInc]

The issue here is you have to put both pedals in the same place. I generally like wah first and volume after drives, I'd also put your volume pedal before modulation as things like chorus have some delay in them and you want to get all the trails.

[@woodsnstrings]

@@VertexEffectsInc I'll have to try that in the loop. That's the one I treat as my "after the gain" pedal, as it doesn't alter my gain tones but acts more like a master volume. The combo pedal I don't mind out front as it generally stays open (as a buffer) unless I'm using the wah function. Otherwise if it does get used there it's in the same context I might use the guitar pot.

[@Roddo731]

This video is absolutely huge thank you so much Mason

[@VertexEffectsInc]

My pleasure!

[@dude_crush_]

What delay and settings did you use on the intro of the video? Great sounds by the way! These videos are Great!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Rockett Clockwork, knob settings are shown in the b roll footage.

[@sparkyguitar0058]

I got a Dunlap volume thats the same size as the wah pedals. On purposely. That way I can switch out with the wah on my board. Just using the bottom plate for whatever pedal I use on board. I also use it out front if not on board. It's the Dunlap volume that has the Grey bottom base and since I didn't put velco on it, I can move it around where ever I want it. Are these versions of Dunlap high or low impedance? Something I never thought of. Also we've talked before and I use the AKG wireless bug into my board and most times use a rechargeable 5.8 wireless out of board going to amp. So I can put my board anywhere electric line can reach.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

It's probably 250K would be my guess.

[@mobiusblues]

Just wondering where the Boss Rocker PV-1 falls in terms of active versus passive since it doesn’t use a pot, but rather a magnetic field to control attenuation. Thanks for all you do, I really enjoy your channel and have learned a lot.

[@mikaelstensvold3199]

The PV-1 is very similar to a Lehle Volume Pedal. It’s active with a buffer inside.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I don't know much about it. Can't say...

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@mikaelstensvold3199 I doubt the buffer is anywhere near Lehle or the mechanical quality however.

[@mikaelstensvold3199]

@@VertexEffectsInc I agree on that, just wanted to clarify the similarities :)

[@raymondforbes4295]

Don't Mean Nothing is how I got into Michael Landau. I know he didn't play on that song, but I bought the album because of it and Michael Landau was all over that album.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes, indeed!

[@waynegram8907]

David Gilmour used a DeArmond volume pedal model 1602 which I'm not sure if it was a 100K pot i doubt it was a 250K or 25K pot but would like to find out the pot volume value. He placed it AFTER the fuzz face so the DeArmond volume pedal pot value was LOADING down the fuzzface output impedance. I think this gives you a very glassy clean tone by doing this trick because when lowering your strat volume down and having the fuzz face output knob set to 10 max it gives it a very glassy clean tone plus using the DeArmond volume pot loading down the fuzz face output gives extra glassy cleans. This trick was used on Pompeii. Try to do a video about this gilmour trick which seems to only work on fuzz faces. A common fuzz face mod is to change and fuzz face output volume pot value so not all fuzz faces are the same because of the output volume pot value so you get a different glassy clean tone but the fuzz face output volume has to be on 10 max to get the more glassy cleans.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I'll have to try it!

[@waynegram8907]

@@VertexEffectsInc The DeArmond volume pedal might have a 50k or 100K pot so it makes a difference on LOADING down the fuzz face output impedance plus when rolling back the strats volume you get a very glassy texas tone done by gilmour live at pompeii.

[@wheresallthezombies]

This just made me want to get good at swelling with my volume control on the guitar. Lol.

[@78tag]

Me too but all of the variables have kept me from going there.

[@terrypelton7728]

Doc, THX, using 3 drivers (vertx dynamic, boss blues driver, steel steel), then my vertx boost, i'll place the vol pedal(passive) after boost before SRV and 4 effect echo/delays units, using empress to buffer out, i'll let you know how it sounds

[@mrblablablabla]

So what happens when you put a high impedance volume pedal after a buffer / your drives?

[@juniorg296]

Hilton Electronics *Pro Guitar* - phenomenal active volume pedal, very much like the old Goodrich LDRs

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I'm aware of it, I think the issue for most standing guitar players is that it's still a little awkward and the buffer adds a lot of EQ that wasn't there to being with comparing guitar, cable, amp.

[@juniorg296]

@@VertexEffectsInc totally agree, the pedal / lap steel style volume pedals can feel super awkward...which in that case is a non-starter for most if it doesn't feel right. That said, for some reason they sound the most transparent of all volume pedals in existence. The Goodrich LDR2 is like hens teeth (thanks Adam Jones) now for how transparent it is and how well it drives a line in high gain scenarios. What I don't understand now though having learned about functionality in your video, is in the case of Adam Jones...who uses almost exclusively the DDJ bridge pickup in his LPs, with a DiMarzio Custom Taper 500k volume pot in his guitar, AND the Goodrich LDR2 first in chain. Wouldn't that be a redundancy? Why even bother swapping your guitar's volume pot (and becoming a spec on his signature guitar to boot) if you're running right into an active volume pedal?

[@michaelloving8004]

I have used a Ernie ball vip that has a buffer and a gain knob

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Let's hope the buffer is OK...

[@jimandcathep9915]

One you didn't mention is the Fractal Audio EV1/EV2 - Can be used as a expression pedal or high impedance (500k) analog volume pedal - The EV2's are nice and small and perfect for my board and are great quality - great video !

[@VertexEffectsInc]

There's probably 50 volume pedals that were not mentioned, the point was to give you the understanding to then go and figure out which one is right for you based on where you put it. 500K also, not so good for most guitars unless you're buffering into it.

[@oleksandrnovakov4295]

If someone can bring some light on why high-impedance pedals will not work in the FX-loop? Also, why they are not suitable to use after a buffer? Mason mentioned compensation for unknown impedance of an fx-loop but what does it mean in practice?

[@78tag]

It is my (almost understanding) of this particular set up that the I/O's of effects loops need to see specific signals. From other videos by Mason, I get that "active" vol pedals will automatically adjust to the signal. I don't know if the spec is supplied with the amp so you can try to match it on your own - I don't use amps that have fx loops so I can't confirm. I think you will have degraded signal with a high impedance vol pedal in an fx loop due to an imbalance in the I/O's. Also, I think you may have misunderstood Mason (5:55) (if I understand your question) - a high impedance vol pedal goes first after your guitar (doubles up the tone suck effect) if you want it to act like the vol on your guitar. My take is that you DO WANT TO USE vol pedal after some sort of buffer. That is where my standard question comes from on all videos like this - There is so much (unexplained) theory but not enough practical explanation. I think they don't explain in detail because they don't think we can understand it. Most of us want more than just "do this - don't do that". I want to know why, then the theory makes more useful sense.

[@crumpred805]

That sounded great through the efx loop. Too bad the only amp I own with the loop is my Trickfish bass amp. Loved the ambient clicks when you slide the chord up the neck … very nice.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad you liked it!

[@jacksonmanuel33]

Check out the options from Hilton, Goodrich, Thru-Tone, and A3 Stompbox. The Visual Sound (Truetone) Visual Volume reissue had a lot of cool features. db Instrument Amp has the dual-axis design.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I'm aware of all of these (mostly active volume pedals) you mention. Mechanically, I'll put the Lehle as the high water mark both in terms of buffers and mechanical design compared to the others here. The Visual Volume is a hard one to recommend as it's not made and about 2x the width of any other volume pedal ever made.

[@bobbreckenkamp4641]

Excellent video. Always informative. Thanks!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks so much for watching!!!

[@jeffadams4952]

Hey Mason, Great videos & expert advice! As a bassist, I do feel a little left out at times on certain subjects, such as VP’s. All of my touring basses have an active preamp so how does that apply to this discussion on VP’s. I personally use the 40th Anniversary EB MVPJR because I really like the sweep. My current signal chain begins in series: 1. TC Electronic SpectraDrive Bass Preamp, 2. EBS Billy Sheehan Signature Drive 3. 40th Anniversary EB MVPJR 4. TC Electronic Polytune 3 tuner… My question is there better signal flow with the beginning of my chain?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

If you have active pickups, the low impedance VP is ideal, 25K.

[@jeffadams4952]

Thank you for the reply!

[@MC-lg6xt]

What about this setup. Guitar ->phaser->flanger->trebleboost-> preamp pedal->fx return. I am not using the fx send therefore I lose volume control from my amp. I don’t want to use the level control from my preamp pedal as I sometimes switch it off and use only the phaser. Where would an active pedal or something to control the volume go to act as an Amp volume? Thanks!

[@CalitranoN]

So in an 80s metal band, where i need a boost for solos' put it between the delay/EQ effects and the Distortion Fuzz effects... I use a morley led one.

[@78tag]

Am I right - that Morley pedal uses an led instead of a pot? If so, does that change the whole impedance picture?

[@danielmiller2886]

Well, i learned a lot today. Thanks!

[@liorashermusic]

Great informative video. Thanks doc!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching!

[@davidparkes7977]

That covers it all perfect information .Thanks Bro

[@duaneharlick]

Using a High impedance pedal up front. I also have a buffer on my board. Thoughts on whether the buffer should be before or after the volume pedal?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Buffer before.

[@akdelta38]

Wealth of knowledge, Thanks dude

[@78tag]

Great video but so many options covered can produce more questions than answers. They have done their best but they have opened themselves to questions they don't want to be bothered with. The subject matter is too technically diverse to think a video like this will clear up the confusion.

[@craigoriopequeño505]

Awesome as always Uncle Mason mega thanx!! I see your chorus between delay and 'verb... Is that recommended or preference? Also, your thoughts on Xotic volume pedals?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I was trying it more "Eric Johnson" style where he uses the Memory Man before the TC Chorus. The Xotic ones are fine too.

[@osomusic]

Great video. Thanks. The important question is whether the same passive volume pedal can be used both in the studio in the effect loop and also for playing live. Is the safest case just to get an active one, or is the passive low impedance good enough?

[@hobbesesq.8841]

Great info again Mason! If I were to use a volume pedal in the Vertex Boost expression jack, does it matter if it’s high or low impedance? Thanks!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Doesn't matter, the Boost EXP doesn't care. Just choose a taper you like.

[@hobbesesq.8841]

@@VertexEffectsInc Thanks Mason, you are a gentleman and a scholar

[@returnofthenative]

Love what youre doing Mason.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching!

[@Chord_The_Seeker]

Great video. So, let’s say I want to use a volume pedal in the effects loop of a high gain, channel switching amp, and I want to use the tuner out on the pedal. What kind of volume pedal should I use?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

An active volume pedal.

[@Chord_The_Seeker]

@@VertexEffectsInc So, a low impedance, active pedal?

[@MrCreepingdeath741]

Hi mason, what if I set up my board: Earnie ball volume, wah, polytuner (with a buffer). The end of the chain I have a hall of fame 2 with a buffer; into a two notes opus. Will there be tone suck?

[@MikeSingSing]

Got a question about using Volume Pedals with Fuzzes. I like the sound fuzzes produce when the volume is rolled off. So if it has to be quick, i use a passive volume in front. However, i'm thinking about getting the Lehle, but Fuzzes generally don't like buffers in front of em. Sooo. Fuzzes in front of active volume and do it with the volume on the guitar or Fuzz after active volume?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

If you want a volume pedal first, you'll need to use a passive one if you plan to use a fuzz. 250K passive high impedance volume pedal would be ideal. If you get a Lehle you'll need to put it after you Fuzz.

[@MikeSingSing]

@@VertexEffectsInc yeah, i thought so. either passive in front or active after fuzz. Thx for the help!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@MikeSingSing passive high impedance in front, or active volume pedal, vertex boost connected to any volume pedal, or buffer feeding a low impedance volume pedal after fuzz.

[@1Aquadon]

Thanks Mason.. as always rock-solid info!!!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Any time!

[@danielel9191]

Hi there thanks for this great video. I am wondering where I should put my Dunlop volume High impedance passive pedal in my signalk chain. Right now I have the guitar going into Boss TU 3 tuner in tc gravity comp, out to Strymon Riverside, out to dunlop volume, out to Sub n up octaver, out to strymon el capistan, out stereo in to strymon timeline, out in to stereo Neunaber immerse reverb, out in to stereo Strymon Big Sky, out in to stereo ditto looper and out to stereo splitter Iridium out stereo in to Apogee Quartet input 1-2 into Mac. I don't use an amp because I have the Iridium. Thanks again and hope you can shed some light when not using a amp but a simulator instead. I am assuming you know about the Iridium...

[@guyfenocchi3574]

Mason what if you use a passive volume pedal after the distortion in your chain what are the ramifications also in previous volume pedal discussions I believe you prefer the low impedance with a buffer before it because the taper is better what is your take on both of these issues thanks in advance

[@VertexEffectsInc]

That's what I did here in the example for this application. Typically the pedals driving your VP in addition to any input buffer is sufficient for any low impedance volume pedal. I would prioritize 25K in this position.

[@robertcdrake5453]

Here's a question how about a passive on the end a d a active on the front?? I have two kind of guitars passive and active pickups??

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Use a buffer before the low impedance volume pedal or use an active volume pedal and you can use the same one for both.

[@omarmoran3097]

I watches this video yesterday. By any chance what do you recommend for a smaller active volume pedal for active pickups. I don't want gigantic thing 😂

[@VertexEffectsInc]

For active pickups, low impedance 25K is ideal, you'd be looking at the Boss FV-30L or the Ernie Ball VPJR 25K version.

[@tim_bauer3100]

I’ve got a question. So if you use the vertex boost to make a passive volume pedal active, is there a certain type of volume pedal someone should use like a 25K, 250K, low impedance, and high impedance. Or can you use any passive volume pedal in combination with the boost to make a active pedal.

[@78tag]

I think you need to go back and watch this video (a couple of times if necessary). Pay particular attention to the 5:55 section.

[@michealrodriguez157]

I'm using the dunlop mini. I plug into the polytune 3 with the always on and buffer on -> keeley compressor -> volume -> wampler tumnus etc. Do I need to use the buffer on the polytune, or would it be better for the signal without the buffer in the tuner?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

PolyTune buffer as an input buffer is fine. I’d still move the volume pedal after your overdrives and distortions or right aftertaste the tuner. A low impedance volume pedal will also be preferable.

[@jamesjdonatelli]

Hey Mason, great video and it left me with 2 questions. 1) what is the different between a volume pedal and a wah wah peddle? 2) Some new active peddles are being made with a switch between wah and volume. Any thoughts on the value or challenges to this multi use kind of pedal?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Wah wah is a filter pedal, volume pedal just changes the volume of the signal. Totally different. Wah Volume combos are not good at either.

[@oleksandrnovakov4295]

@@VertexEffectsIncEBS WahOne has a function of the volume pedal. Although I almost never used it as a volume it’s a great wah!

[@mikeygee8548]

Great video Mason can you do a video on expression pedals.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching...not really sure what it would cover, there isn't a "tone" aspect to expression pedals.

[@ahaua1]

Great and informative video!!

[@ramilrodriguez8340]

Great!! Very educational!!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Hope it was helpful!

[@ramilrodriguez8340]

@@VertexEffectsInc yes. It let me know I have my lehele connected the best way, well according to my taste and needs, in the amp effect loop from the send to the vol and from the vol to the H9 the timeline and the bigsky. All connected to a mastermind pbc 10. My signal chain goes like this: guitar to wha to g-lab bc1 compressor to mastermind in. Loops 1 to 6 overdrives. Mastermind send to amp in. Amp send to vol pedal to mastermind return. Loop8 H9, loop 9 timeline, loop 10 bygsky. I use two amps I built; a moded matchless dc 30 clone and a moded Dr Z maz 18 kind of preamp with a 35 watts kt66 power section. The loops 8,9,10 only go to one amp (the moded maz) and the dc30 runs dry. I’m very pleased with the tones but I wonder about which buffers should I have on on the mastermind. Right now I have them all on. Any thoughts? Thanks.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@ramilrodriguez8340 Typically you want a buffer first, last, and on the return of the FX loop.

[@ramilrodriguez8340]

@@VertexEffectsInc thank you. If it’s you Mason I have to tell you that you truly make me believe you love what you do and you do like to help. I had a text conversation with you few years ago and it is amazing how you took time to respond my questions. Now again. So there is no problem to have the three that the mastermind has on plus the lehele buffer in the loop? Thank you. Appreciated. Blessings.

[@mattg082]

Life saver if you don’t want to clip a bright cap on a fender..make sure you have at least one buffer pedal before and use the volume pedal with the volume on amp pastcthe bright cap around 6-7. That way you can get your cleans and break up and not have that high fizzle of bright cap on distortions.

[@jeffmclowry]

I’m not sure if I missed it or if it wasn’t mentioned. What about optical volume pedals?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

That’s an active volume pedal.

[@Ben-ll3iy]

What are the mini volume pedal brand and model do you recommend? I was thinking about buying the morley 20/20 wah/volume (2in1). whats your opinion?

[@marcospintor1333]

Best pedal channel 💪🏼💪🏼🙌🏼

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Wow, thanks!

[@andreamarrado]

If I'm using the empress buffer and using the Dunlop mini X. should I set as "volume mode" 250k or the "expression mode" 10k. I'm using it in series; buffer->volume->first OD etc. Thank you so much. Thank you for your work.

[@mikaelstensvold3199]

That would be similar to having a drive pedal before the volume, so a low-impedance volume pedal would be best, although a high impedance will work as well

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Expression is a linear pot, so you might not like the taper even though 10K might be a better impedance match. You might like the feel of the 250K pot better.

[@andreamarrado]

@@VertexEffectsInc thank you!

[@nicknickson3650]

What if I use the Ernie Ball VP 250k passive volume pedal but have a buffer in the middle of my chain? Does it have the same effect as using an active volume pedal? Also my effects loop says it's buffered. Do I really need an active volume pedal?

[@78tag]

I know he hits us with a lot of info in a short time (he talks pretty fast) but go back to 5:55 and see if that answers your question. I think he answers everyone's questions in this video if they are tech savvy but most of us need some help in that regard. For, what seems to be a simple pedal, there is a world of understanding to be learned about their use and the companies that sell them are typically of no help. they just want to sell you a product - it's up to you to know what you want/need. I think that is kinda chicken shit myself.

[@novabluerocks]

Thank you for the video! Question, I’ve been using my 250k Ernie Ball VP as the last unit in my pedalboard chain, functioning as a master volume for the whole board before going into the input of my amp. I’m pretty sure all of my pedals are true bypass. But in this case, would it be better to use a 25k VP?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Any pedal that's "ON" is no longer true bypass and is buffering at that point. True bypass only refers to the state of the pedal when it's "OFF". So if you always have at least one pedal on, the low impedance volume pedal is preferable.

[@DavidGardeborn]

...and if not using any pedal at a particular moment, consider get an "always on" buffer first in the chain. In that case the 25k should still be preferable.

[@towardstar]

that was so thorough

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Hope it was helpful! Hope we earned your sub!!!

[@tracyfarmer2287]

Great video Mason

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏

[@welcometobabbylon7783]

What about using the tuner out (on a passive) to feed a vocal harmonizer pedal?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

As a split output? You might have some loading still but ideally you're harmonizer is always on and will at least be buffering the output. Ideally you'd have some sorta active buffer splitter instead of using the volume pedal.

[@welcometobabbylon7783]

@@VertexEffectsInc No split, I use the tuner out to feed the harmonizer so I can still send chord info with the heel down. Allows me to do acapella stuff. My tuner is in-line.

[@novabluerocks]

Thank you so much! Admittedly, I’ve been using the tuner out on my Ernie Ball VP for years. Yikes! I’ll stop doing that today. 🤦

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes! Friends don't let friends use the Tuner Out!

[@-Atmos1]

Great information , thanks .

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching! Hope we earned your sub!

[@-Atmos1]

@@VertexEffectsInc Absolutely , a video about Wah Wah pedals would be cool . Plus how to set up with overdrive & delay . Awesome . 🎸🎛🎚🎵🎶🎶

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@-Atmos1 I bet there are already videos out there about this very subject!

[@-Atmos1]

@@VertexEffectsInc Wondering which Wah to buy . There are so many to choose from . It would be cool if Vertex Effects made a Wah pedal . Peace 🙂

[@calixtus06]

Hello, if you ajust the volume during a song and you want later to do the same , you must keep your foot in contact with the pedal all the song ? Or is there another solution ? Thanks

[@accentontheoff]

So we have volume pedals. And wah pedals. What about expression pedals - the kind that alter all kinds of diverse parameters. Newbie here, in case it isn’t obvious, thanks for the video.

[@EnterJustice]

Expression pedals just control one or more paramters of another pedal. They aren't in the signal chain, which makes things easier. They use TRS cables, though, so make sure you get the right cables.

[@accentontheoff]

@@EnterJustice Got it thanks!

[@gitarman666]

Picked up a mission volume pro ultrasweep the claim is its buffer allows it to be the first in line? Also where do I put the Wah?, that was always first for my setup I had a passive volume prior to the mission and there was very noticeable treble and volume drop with all migomi cables Thus the purchase

[@psmith7781]

So I have a couple old Dean Markley CD series combo amps with channel switching and effects loops. Both Amps have the individual send and receive level controls for the Effects loop. Is there a recommended setting for each pot if I choose to place my VP in the effects loop? (curious if this will allow me to swell in the wet volume, but not effect the dry volume)

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You'll still want the 25K low impedance volume pedal most likely. The send/return levels are to interface better with your pedals so they don't clip. I would set them accordingly so you don't hear any distortion on your delays and reverbs.

[@sconni666]

On the Dunlop X what if any effect does using the expression jack at the same time as the volume have on your signal? Thx.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

It's one or the other...not both. They will be impacting volume and expression at the same time.

[@sanderdragsund7373]

Jesus really loves you

[@kevint8732]

I use the Dunlop mini as an expression pedal with a vertex boost v1. The sound is great, no tone suck, but I don’t like the taper. Are there any mods that can alter the taper?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Use the in/output instead of the EXP jack. All EXP pots are linear taper, not audio taper like a normal VP. Get an insert cable and you can then use the normal audio taper pot in the volume pedal.

[@Bennett-ql3hh]

Mason - is there a device you recommend to have one expression pedal be used for multiple pedals?

[@kellyblaise7]

I just ordered the Vertex boost. If I use the volume pedal in the loop of the boost, then I can use the tuner out because the buffer in the boost will make the volume pedal active?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes, you can use the tuner out because the volume pedal will now be active.

[@seaton4442]

Here is my situation. I have a fender tele with passive single coil and a schecter with active emg pickups. What volume pedal would be best if i swap between these two.

[@78tag]

Since no one has replied, here's my 2 cents - I'm thinking some sort of buffer with tru-bypass switch straight out of your guitar. Don't quote me though.

[@TheSuperDmyers]

How is the quality/sound of the buffer in the Mission engineering Volume pedal?

[@d3nn771]

Can i use this to boost the sound on my analog marshall amp for room practices?

[@madslashers2002]

Well I just realized my FV 500 H is not what I want. Thanks for not putting out this video earlier you jerk! 😂 On sweetwater’s site they list the FV 500L as a keyboard instrument pedal. I plan on using it in my switcher and assigning it in the effects loop most of the time. Thumbs up if you bless the 500L for anywhere in my switchable path.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

FV-500L is any low impedance signal, if you have a buffered rig or using in the FX loop the L is always preferable.

[@madslashers2002]

@@VertexEffectsInc thanks! I’m going to order the L.

[@julianagudelo8228]

HI Doctor, con you please let me know how can I Add dunlop volume X to pbc/6x after drives?

[@erickenmelson]

Is it fine that I use the expression out on my Dunlop mini to control the level knob of my Iridium through my midi controller?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Expression on this is all digital, won't matter.

[@gregzen3458]

Did I hear that wrong? Right around 15:0O you said you were running it through distortions, fuzz, etc and then after the DRY effects... Isn't that the WET effects? or am I mistaken?

[@564df6g5h4d6f5g4h6d5]

You should have a visible decibel meter. The computer compresses everything and I can’t hear the volume changes.

[@stargroves14]

Mason...Would getting a volume pedal be better than the fromel global master volume mod for my HRD ML...It is so freaking loud on 2 its hard to take.

[@osagie2]

Thanks ! Great info !🎸🙏🏿✌🏿🎶👍🏾

[@rams6702]

i got a Caline Cp-31P, which is some cheaper brand volume pedal with a boost. Its an active pedal which uses a battery and it seems to still have quite a tone suck when the boost is set to zero, and a different boosted/cranked amp tone compared to plugging directly to the amp. I plan to get a buffer to even out the signal, so i could have my amp tone with my pedal at low boost, and see if i can get an extra overdrive boost function. Thoughts? Very informative video as always!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Active volume pedals can be good if the buffer is good, however that's more rare than you might think. If you have an active volume pedal with a decent buffer built in, then you shouldn't need another buffer right before in the signal path, just a good input and output buffer should do just like we always recommend.

[@rams6702]

@@VertexEffectsInc thank you for the advice! i got a good basic buffer anyways to test out the idea, i'll see if it makes a difference in the beginning of the signal chain. It shouldnt hurt the pedals or the tone, i hope

[@matthewdickinson5172]

A few years ago I got the JHS buffer mod on my old Ernie Ball VP. Was that a bad idea since it has the 250k pot? I typically place my VP up front for swells which is why I had the mod done in the first place. Thanks!

[@78tag]

Good question - I don't understand why this hasn't been answered. Maybe it was and we just didn't catch it so it went into the "dumb questions" basket. ???

[@jimmyhumphrey_5975]

Hi Mason quick question what's your thoughts on a passive volume pedal after a buffer at the end of my effects and to control tone suck a Vertex Boost after the volume pedal for my clean boost.