AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Wah Pedals for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Dunlop CBM95 Cry Baby Mini Wah ($175). Dunlop SW95 Slash Signature Cry Baby Wah leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 74 models across 20 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Strings8-string
This little Dunlop Bass Mini Wah is surprisingly capable, especially for bassists. The added Volume and Q knobs give you a lot of control over the wah's intensity and character – it's a good option for players who want a wah effect without a huge footprint or complex controls. Great for funk, rock, and adding a little extra something to your low-end.
Pros
- Aluminum housing provides robust protection and a premium feel.
- Volume and Q controls allow for tonal shaping beyond basic wah.
- Buffered bypass maintains signal strength, crucial for bass clarity.
Cons
- Miniature size can make the rocking motion less precise.
- Auto-off feature might frustrate players preferring constant wah availability.
85AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$175 now$175€157 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Dunlop GCB95F Cry Baby Classic Fasel Wah
Crybaby Classic GCB95 F · Dunlop
108 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight1.68 kg
The GCB95 is a solid choice for players chasing that iconic '70s Crybaby sound – think Hendrix, Robin Trower, that kind of vibe. It's built like a tank, and the Fasel inductor really nails the vintage character. If you're looking for a dependable, classic wah without a ton of bells and whistles, this is a great starting point.
Pros
- Fasel inductor delivers a classic, vocal wah tone
- Hot Potz pots offer smooth, consistent sweep and long-term reliability
- Die-cast aluminum housing provides robust durability for gigging
Cons
- Can be a bit noisy with high-gain pickups, requiring careful EQing
- Limited tonal versatility compared to more modern, feature-rich wah pedals
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$158 now$158€142 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Dunlop GCB65 Custom Badass Dual-Inductor Cry Baby Wah
Cry Baby Custom Badass GCB65 · Dunlop
52 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight1.5 kg
This pedal gives you two classic wah sounds in one box. The Halo coil brings a thick midrange, while the Red Fasel coil adds clarity and harmonics. You can switch between them easily with a side-kick switch. It works with a standard 9V power source, but you must provide your own power brick since it isn't included.
Pros
- Delivers two distinct legendary wah sounds from single pedals
- Throaty midrange from the Halo Inductor coil
- Crisp, clear sound with rich harmonics from Red Fasel Inductor
Cons
- Weight is not specified in the provided description
- Lacks a dedicated volume control knob for output level
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Sep 12Sep 12$188 now$188€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Dunlop IM95K Iron Maiden Signature Killers Cry Baby Wah
Iron Maiden Killers Cry Baby · Dunlop
67 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This pedal is a special collector's item for Iron Maiden fans. It uses a solid metal box to protect the electronics inside. You can run it on a battery or plug it in, but the power brick is missing. It sounds like the classic wah pedal many players love.
Pros
- Exclusive Iron Maiden signature model status
- Heavy-duty metal housing for durability
- Standard 6.3mm mono jack connectivity
Cons
- Power supply adapter is not included
- No specific control knobs listed in text
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- Weight0.92 kg
The Morley 20/20 Bad Horsie is a unique wah pedal, perfect for players who want a distinct, expressive voice – think Steve Vai's wild, soaring solos. Its optical circuit gives it a really vocal quality, and the buffer helps keep your tone strong. While the 'Bad Horsie' setting is intense, the Contour mode offers a more subtle option for a wider range of styles.
Pros
- Optical circuit delivers exceptionally smooth, vocal-like wah response
- Cold-rolled steel housing provides robust build quality and roadworthiness
- Integrated 20/20 buffer maintains signal integrity, even with long cable runs
Cons
- The 'Bad Horsie' mode can be overly aggressive for subtle playing styles
- Limited control over the wah's range; shaping is less flexible than some competitors
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$244 now$244€219 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight0.92 kg
The Morley 20/20 is a clever little pedal. It's a great option for players wanting a compact wah and volume solution, especially those who like a more classic, vocal-like wah tone. This is a solid choice for blues, rock, or anyone needing a subtle volume boost with wah versatility on tap.
Pros
- Solid steel housing provides excellent durability and roadworthiness.
- Optical circuitry ensures exceptionally quiet operation, a Morley hallmark.
- Integrated 20/20 buffer preserves signal integrity, especially crucial in long rigs.
Cons
- The sweep range, while vintage-voiced, may feel a little narrow for modern wah styles.
- Battery power can be limiting for stage use; external power supply highly recommended.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$243 now$243€218 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The CBJ95 is a fantastic entry point into the Cry Baby world. It nails that iconic wah tone and its smaller footprint is a huge bonus for pedalboard users. Perfect for guitarists looking for that classic funk and rock wah without the complexity of higher-end models.
Pros
- Solid metal housing provides excellent durability for gigging musicians.
- 3-way voicing switch offers tonal flexibility across a range of styles.
- Compact Junior size is pedalboard-friendly, saving valuable space.
Cons
- Weight (840g) can be a factor on smaller, portable pedalboards.
- Lack of expression control limits nuanced wah manipulation.
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$188 now$188€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Dunlop KH95 Kirk Hammett Signature Cry Baby Wah
Kirk Hammett Signature Wah · Dunlop
103 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This wah is built for players wanting that aggressive, scooped wah sound Kirk Hammett is known for. It’s got a solid feel and the bass boost really thickens things up, but be warned – it’s not a general-purpose wah; it’s dialed in for a very specific vibe. If you're chasing that Metallica tone, this is a great starting point.
Pros
- Distinctive 'scooped' voicing emulates Hammett’s signature wah tone.
- Robust construction with a heavy-duty crybaby core and aluminum casing.
- Expression pedal input allows for dynamic, real-time wah control.
Cons
- Limited versatility; tonal palette is heavily influenced by Hammett’s style.
- Expression pedal functionality requires additional equipment and setup.
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$236 now$236€212 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The AW-3 is a clever little box, especially for bassists looking for something beyond a standard wah. Its dynamic wah is surprisingly expressive, and the InHumanizer, while quirky, can add a cool vocal-like texture to your sound. It’s a budget-friendly option for players who want a unique wah sound and aren't needing ultimate control or flexibility.
Pros
- Dynamic wah offers a wider range than traditional units
- Bass input delivers genuinely usable, funky low-end tones
- InHumanizer effect provides unique, experimental soundscapes
Cons
- Limited control over the 'InHumanizer' effect’s sonic character
- Decay control can be finicky, requiring precise adjustments
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$159 now$159€143 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Dunlop SW95 Slash Signature Cry Baby Wah
SW-95 Slash Signature Wah-Wah · Dunlop
66 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This Slash Signature Wah is a solid choice if you're chasing that Appetite-era tone. It nails the vocal, expressive quality he’s known for, and the built-in distortion is a nice bonus for quick, dirty riffs. It's a premium-priced pedal, but delivers the goods for players wanting that specific Slash vibe.
Pros
- Faithful recreation of Slash's iconic wah sound, instantly recognizable.
- The Fassel coil delivers a vocal, expressive quality lacking in many wahs.
- Robust, all-metal housing provides exceptional durability for gigging.
Cons
- The integrated distortion isn't a replacement for a dedicated overdrive.
- The wah range is somewhat limited, favoring a mid-focused sound.
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$254 now$254€228 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 74 wah pedals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Dunlop JH-1D Jimi Hendrix Signature Cry Baby WahJimi Hendrix Sig. Wah JH1D · Dunlop62Stable$221€198$221€198Check ↗
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Dunlop JB95 Joe Bonamassa Signature Cry Baby WahJoe Bonamassa CryBaby JB95 · Dunlop62Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
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Dunlop SC95 Slash Signature Cry Baby Classic WahSlash Cry Baby Classic · Dunlop59Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
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Dunlop CBM95 Cry Baby Mini WahCBM95 CryBaby Mini Wah · Dunlop70Stable$124€111$124€111Check ↗
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Dunlop JC95B Jerry Cantrell Signature Cry Baby WahCry Baby Cantrell Blk Edition · Dunlop58Stable$232€208$232€208Check ↗
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Electro Harmonix Q-Tron Plus Envelope FilterElectro Harmonix56Stable$188€169$188€169Check ↗
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Morley BH 2 Bad Horsie WahMorley55Stable$251€225$251€225Check ↗
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Dunlop ZW45 Zakk Wylde Signature Cry Baby WahZakk Wylde Cry Baby Wah · Dunlop54Stable$244€219$244€219Check ↗
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Ibanez TWP10 Twin Peaks WahTWP10 Twin Peaks Wah-Pedal · Ibanez51Stable$188€169$188€169Check ↗
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Boss PW-3 Wah PedalBoss50Stable$154€138$154€138Check ↗
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Vox V846HW Wah WahVox · 2 finishes45Stable$212€190$212€190Check ↗
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Mad Professor Snow White Auto Wah with Guitar/Bass SwitchSnow White Auto Wah GB · Mad Professor45Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
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Dunlop Crybaby CB-535QDunlop44↓ 3.4%$192€172$192€172Check ↗
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Dunlop Cry Baby Mini 535Q WahDunlop43↓ 1.7%$192€172$192€172Check ↗
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Dunlop Crybaby 95QDunlop42Stable$183€164$183€164Check ↗
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Dunlop Bass Q CrybabyDunlop42Stable$184€165$184€165Check ↗
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Dunlop Cry Baby Mini 535Q Auto ReturnDunlop42Stable$216€194$216€194Check ↗
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Vox V863-CA Semi-Auto WahVox41↓ 7.4%$236€212$236€212Check ↗
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Morley LBB Lerxst Blah Blah WahMorley40Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
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Dunlop Crybaby GCB95Dunlop60↓ 5.3%$99€89$99€89Check ↗
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Ibanez WH10V3 WahWH10V3 Wah Pedal · Ibanez45Stable$139€125$139€125Check ↗
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Vox V847A Wah with 9V JackVX V847A Wah · Vox59Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
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Carl Martin OttawaCarl Martin35Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
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Electro Harmonix Micro Q-TronElectro Harmonix58Stable$88€79$88€79Check ↗
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Dunlop DB01B Dimebag Signature Cry Baby From Hell WahDimebag Cry Baby Wah · Dunlop74Stable$265€238$265€238Check ↗
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Vox V845 Classic WahV845 Wah-Wah · Vox60↓ 3.2%$68€61$68€61Check ↗
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Dunlop KH95 Kirk Hammett Signature Cry Baby WahKirk Hammett Cry Baby Wah · Dunlop72↓ 12.6%$262€235$262€235Check ↗
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Hotone Soul Press II Volume / Expression / Wah PedalSoul Press II · Hotone41Stable$106€95$106€95Check ↗
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Dunlop MC404 CAE Custom Audio Electronics WahAudio Electronics MC-404 · Dunlop65Stable$255€229$255€229Check ↗
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Behringer Real Mcoy WahWahBehringer35Stable$109€98$109€98Check ↗
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Dunlop EVH95 Eddie Van Halen Signature Cry Baby WahEVH-95 Wah Wah · Dunlop62Stable$266€239$266€239Check ↗
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Dunlop DD95FW Cry Baby Daredevil Fuzz WahDD95FW Cry Baby Daredevil · Dunlop61Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
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Harley Benton Space Wah / VolumeHarley Benton50Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
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Dunlop CM95 Clyde McCoy Cry Baby WahClyde McCoy Cry Baby Wah · Dunlop58Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
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Dunlop JCT95 Justin Chancellor Signature Cry Baby WahJCT95 Justin Chancellor Wah · Dunlop58Stable$362€325$362€325Check ↗
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Mooer Free Step Wah & VolumeFree Step · Mooer41Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
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Dunlop MR95LTD Mick Ronson Signature Cry Baby WahMick Ronson Cry Baby Wah · Dunlop57Stable$333€299$333€299Check ↗
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Harley Benton Space WahHarley Benton50Stable$49€44$49€44Check ↗
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Morley MTG3 - 20/20 Wah LockMorley55Stable$255€229$255€229Check ↗
- 50
Morley MTLW2 - 20/20 Lead Wah BoostMorley55Stable$255€229$255€229Check ↗
Wah Pedals by the numbers
Measured across all 75 models we track, not a sample.
Median $222 — half of all wah pedals here cost less.
median of 11 models · 0.83 kg–1.68 kg
How to choose the best wah pedals
Feel & Responsiveness
This is paramount. A jerky, unresponsive wah is frustrating and makes expressive playing impossible. We're looking for a smooth, vocal-like sweep that responds to subtle shifts in foot pressure, not just a mechanical on/off switch.
Tone & Voicing
Some wahs are scooped and nasal, others have a warmer, more mid-focused character. Intermediate players need a wah that's versatile enough to handle funk, rock, blues, and even some more experimental textures without sounding thin or harsh.
Noise Floor
A quiet wah is a polite wah. Excessive hiss or hum, especially when engaged, is a dealbreaker, particularly if you're recording or playing in a quiet venue. It's a sign of cheap components.
Build Quality & Durability
Gigs happen. Pedals get kicked. A flimsy enclosure or unreliable potentiometers are a recipe for disaster. We're looking for something that can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Expression Control
Some wahs offer adjustable parameters like range, sensitivity, or even Q - essentially, how narrow or wide the filter sweep is. This level of tweakability is invaluable for shaping your tone and dialing in a truly personalized wah sound.
Buying guide
So, you're past the basic distortion pedal and starting to explore wah? Awesome. It's a deceptively simple effect, but getting a good wah sound - one that sings, ducks notes dynamically, and doesn't just sound like a cheesy filter sweep - takes a bit more than just stomping on anything. This list isn't for the absolute beginner who just wants to copy a Chili Peppers riff; it's for players who are ready to dial in a usable wah and start really understanding its nuances.
Don't chase the 'vintage' hype. Replicas often cut corners on components, resulting in a brittle, less-dynamic sound. Solid-state circuitry is often fine, especially at this level, but look for models with quality pots and a well-designed sweep.
Paying a little extra for a pedal with adjustable range or sensitivity can unlock a lot of tonal possibilities, especially if you're trying to find a sweet spot that works with your guitar's pickup voicing.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 75 wah pedals from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between an optical and a mechanical wah?
Mechanical wahs (like the Vox V847) use a physical linkage and lever. Optical wahs (like Dunlop Cry Baby models with expression pedal input) use light sensors. Optical wahs can offer more precise control and are often quieter, but mechanical wahs can feel more 'organic' to some players.
My wah sounds thin and harsh - what's going on?
The sweep range might be too narrow, or your amp's EQ isn't complementing the wah. Try adjusting the wah's range (if possible) or rolling off some high-end on your amp. Also, consider your pickup voicing - high-output humbuckers can accentuate harshness.
Can I use an expression pedal to control a wah?
Absolutely! Many modern wahs have an expression pedal input, allowing you to remotely control the sweep. This is great for live looping or creating more subtle, nuanced effects.
Does the type of amp matter when using a wah?
Huge. A bright, clean amp will let the wah's character shine through. A distorted amp can mask the wah's subtleties. Experiment with different amp settings and speaker combinations to find what works best for your style.
My wah pedal is noisy. Is there anything I can do?
Check your power supply - a noisy power adapter can introduce hum. Try shielding the pedal's circuit with copper foil. If the noise persists, it could be a sign of faulty components, and replacement might be necessary.
