MENU

\ Going to meet Sound House's sister /

An older sister I often see

Please use Sound House again next time.

Digital data of a world-renowned Japanese-made machine is now available for download.

[How to Choose] 7 Recommended Volume Pedals! Explaining the Differences in Impedance and Where to Place Them

XTONES Official Store

Sending Japan's finest tone to the world

  • DIGITAL CAPTURES
    Archiving Japanese boutique pedals and world-renowned equipment in studio quality (Quad Cortex & TONEX)
  • THE GEAR
    Try it digitally first, and if you really like it, go for the actual device.
    *Limited to those outside of Japan
  • THE VINYL
    A selection of Japanese analog sounds, including anime and fusion music.

\ Subscribe to our email newsletter to receive a coupon! /

  • I want to get a volume pedal, but I don't know how to choose the right one.
  • What can you do with a volume pedal?
  • What should you pay attention to when choosing a volume pedal?

Many people will be inspired by watching professionals or friends play the guitar and want to add a volume pedal to their pedal board.

Common issues include:Please note that depending on the model you choose, the installation location and purpose may change, and you may not be able to use it as you expected.

This time,If you're looking to choose a volume pedal, this is it! We'll explain in detail the carefully selected recommended models and how to choose them!

table of contents

\ Going to meet Sound House's sister /

An older sister I often see

Please use Sound House again next time.

What is a volume pedal?

What is a volume pedal?An effector that allows you to adjust the guitar volume with your feet.

As its name suggests, it sounds simple at first glance, but it affects not only the volume but also the "effectiveness of the effect," so by combining it with other effects, you can expand the scope of your playing.

Let's take a look at how it's specifically used next!

Don't need a volume pedal? Check its role and necessity 

Uses and Benefits

Uses for volume pedals
  • Adjust the volume while playing to make it more subdued or more forward
    Great for live sessions and placed after effects
  • Can change the effect of effectors
    When placed directly behind the guitar, it mainly affects distortion effects.
  • Violin playing possible
    Start by playing with the volume at 0, then gradually increase the pedal to create a dreamy sound.
  • Cut out noise when you're not playing
    Active in bands and live performances

We'll go into more detail about the differences in installation location and use later!

Warnings

Volume pedal precautions
  • Some models have a large loss of sound quality.
  • The installation location and use change depending on the impedance

Volume pedals are said to be effects that are prone to sound loss due to their structure.

This time, we've picked out high-quality models that minimize degradation in sound quality and have built-in buffers!

For impedance, check out the following selection method!

How to choose a volume pedal

[Important] Impedance and installation position

When choosing a volume pedal,It is necessary to always check "impedance (electrical resistance)".

A quick explanation of impedance!

Impedance (electrical resistance) is"Susceptibility to sound stress"Something like this.
The signal coming from the guitar is weak and easily stressed= High impedance
On the other hand, the state of being resistant to stressLow impedance

This impedance changes depending on where you connect the volume pedal, so you need to choose an appropriate one.

High impedance volume pedal

How to connect a high impedance volume pedal

A high impedance volume pedal goes directly after the guitar.
*Excluding battery-powered guitars and basses

  • Changes to effector effects
    Example: Gradually increasing distortion while playing
  • Violin playing
  • Cut out noise when you're not playing

Low impedance volume pedal

How to connect a low impedance volume pedal

A low impedance volume pedal should be connected after the effects processor and just before the amplifier.

  • Adjust the volume while playing to make it more subdued or more forward (affects volume only)
  • Violin playing
  • Cut out noise when you're not playing

Functionality

Volume pedal functions
  • Tuner Out
    If you connect it to a volume pedal, you can tune even with the volume set to 0
  • Minimum volume setting
    Sets the minimum volume when stepping on the heel side
  • Expression Out
    Compatible effect parameter adjustment
  • Torque Adjustment
    Change in step feel

Depending on the model, volume pedals may or may not have these functions.

If you are concerned about the issue of sound thinning, which is a concern with volume pedals, we recommend a model with as simple functions as possible!

Size

There are pros and cons to each size of volume pedal.

The large pedals areIt is stable and has a wide range of motion, allowing you to finely adjust the volume.

However, it is large and takes up a lot of board space.

On the other hand, smaller pedals are easier to incorporate into the board, but they offer less stability and range of motion.

There are also balanced models that combine the best of both worlds!

Material and Durability

Volume pedals are prone to stress, so you'll want to consider their durability.

The materials are broadly divided into "metal" and "resin"

If durability is important, choose metal

If you value lightness and portability, we recommend "resin"

7 Recommended Volume Pedals

Volume pedal comparison chart

can scroll
BrandShin's MusicShin's MusicBOSSLimetone
Audio
BOSSERNIE BALLJim Dunlop
ModelBaby Perfect Volume HybridBaby Perfect VolumeFV-30H
FV-30L
LTV-30L V2
LTV-30H
FV-500H
FV-500L
MVP MOST VALUABLE PEDALDVP4
Volume (X) Mini Pedal
SizeW75×D182×H61mmW75×D182×H61mmW80×D192×H58mmW80×D192×H58mmW131×D36.6×H88mmW121×D286×H89mmW76×D153×H65mm
Impedancehigh & low
兼用
YesH: High
L: Low
H: High
L: Low
H: High
L: Low
Built-in buffer
*Can be used anywhere, requires power source
Yes
FeaturesTUNER OUTTUNER OUTTUNER OUT
illuminate box mini Link
Minimum Volume
TUNER OUT
EXP Jack
Minimum Volume
Gain control
TUNER OUT
AUX terminal (becomes TUNER OUT/EXP jack)
DescriptionA top-quality volume pedal with minimal deterioration in sound quality and outstanding usabilityA top-quality volume pedal with minimal deterioration in sound quality and outstanding usabilityA new standard in tough and compact volume pedalsA high-quality model that has been redesigned using the robust housing of the standard model.A balanced model that is robust and highly functionalMultifunctional for any purposeCompact
Can also be used as an EXP pedal
Highly versatile
Reference price35,024 yen26,224 yen10,450 yen20,900 yen12,650 yen20,625 yen20,900 yen
Shop URLRakuten
Amazon
Rakuten
Amazon
Rakuten
Amazon
Rakuten
Amazon
Rakuten
Amazon
Rakuten
Amazon
Rakuten
Amazon
Comparison of each product

[High & Low Impedance] Shin's Music Baby Perfect Volume Hybrid

Baby Perfect Volume Hybrid Basic Information

SizeW75×D182×H61mm
ImpedanceHigh/Low
Features

Shin's Music is a handmade effects pedal brand that Japan is proud of.

It is also trusted by professionals.It has received overwhelming acclaim as the best choice for quality.

This Hybrid model in particular can be used with any impedance, making it a versatile unit that can be used before or after an effector, depending on the application.

Shin's Music
34,980 JPY(TAX+) (As of 2023:05 on March 05, 23 | According to Yahoo Shopping)

[High & Low Compatible] Shin's Music Baby Perfect Volume

Baby Perfect Volume Basic Information

SizeW75×D182×H61mm
ImpedanceYes
Features

This model is cheaper than the Hybrid model, but is high impedance rather than dual-purpose.

If the purpose is clear, this would be fine as it also has top-notch quality.

Shin's Music
29,700 JPY(TAX+) (As of 2026:05 on March 15, 17 | According to Amazon)

[High/Low Impedance] BOSS Foot Volume FV-30L

Basic information on Foot Volume FV-30L

SizeW80×D192×H58mm
ImpedanceH: High
L: Low
Features

With its reasonable price and decent quality, this model can be considered a standard volume pedal.

Made of die-cast aluminum, it is highly durable and has a compact design.

It's easy to use and has simple functions, so it's recommended as your first device!

Low impedance

BOSS
11,000 JPY(TAX+) (As of 2026:05 on March 14, 13 | According to Amazon)

High impedance

BOSS
10,450 JPY(TAX+) (As of 2023:05 on March 06, 11 | According to Amazon)

[High/Low Impedance] Limetone Audio LTV-30L Version2

Basic information on LTV-30L Version2

SizeW80×D192×H58mm
ImpedanceH: High
L: Low
FeaturesTUNER OUT
illuminate box mini Link

This is a volume pedal modified by Limetone Audio using a sturdy BOSS housing.

All of the internal wiring and circuits have been redesigned to transmit sound that is faithful to the original source all the way to the amplifier.

A pedal that prioritizes sound quality and minimizes sound degradation.

New features include TUNER OUT.

Low impedance

Limetone Audio
20,900 JPY(TAX+) (As of 2026:05 on March 19, 02 | According to Amazon)

High impedance

Limetone Audio
20,350 JPY(TAX+) (As of 2026:05 on March 14, 13 | According to Amazon)

[High/Low Impedance] BOSS FV-500H / FV-500L

Basic information about BOSS FV-500

SizeW131×D36.6×H88mm
ImpedanceH: High
L: Low
FeaturesMinimum Volume
TUNER OUT
EXP Jack

Although it is large in size, it is very stable and has a rubber surface that makes it easy to use.

It also has tuner out and minimum volume settings, making it a versatile unit that can be used for a wide range of purposes.

High impedance

Low impedance

BOSS
10,800 JPY(TAX+) (As of 2026:05 on March 14, 13 | According to Amazon)

[Built-in buffer]ERNIE BALL MVP MOST VALUABLE PEDAL

Basic information on MVP MOST VALUABLE PEDAL

SizeW121×D286×H89mm
ImpedanceBuilt-in buffer
*Can be used anywhere, requires power source
FeaturesMinimum Volume
Gain control
TUNER OUT

This volume pedal requires power from DC9V or a 9V alkaline battery, but it has a built-in buffer so you can use it regardless of where you connect it.

It is equipped with a gain control, so it can also be used as a booster.

In addition, this unit has excellent functionality, including a minimum volume and TUNER OUT.

[High Impedance] Jim Dunlop DVP4 Volume (X) Mini Pedal

A very compact volume pedal.

It is highly rated not only as a volume pedal but also as an expression pedal, making it a great choice for those who want to use it in different situations.

Basic information of DVP4 Volume (X) Mini Pedal

SizeW76×D153×H65mm
ImpedanceYes
FeaturesAUX terminal
(Becomes TUNER OUT/EXP jack)
Jim Dunlop
23,400 JPY(TAX+) (As of 2026:05 on March 19, 02 | According to Amazon)

7 Recommended Volume Pedals | Comparison List

can scroll
BrandShin's MusicShin's MusicBOSSLimetone
Audio
BOSSERNIE BALLJim Dunlop
ModelBaby Perfect Volume HybridBaby Perfect VolumeFV-30H
FV-30L
LTV-30L V2
LTV-30H
FV-500H
FV-500L
MVP MOST VALUABLE PEDALDVP4
Volume (X) Mini Pedal
SizeW75×D182×H61mmW75×D182×H61mmW80×D192×H58mmW80×D192×H58mmW131×D36.6×H88mmW121×D286×H89mmW76×D153×H65mm
Impedancehigh & low
兼用
YesH: High
L: Low
H: High
L: Low
H: High
L: Low
Built-in buffer
*Can be used anywhere, requires power source
Yes
FeaturesTUNER OUTTUNER OUTTUNER OUT
illuminate box mini Link
Minimum Volume
TUNER OUT
EXP Jack
Minimum Volume
Gain control
TUNER OUT
AUX terminal (becomes TUNER OUT/EXP jack)
DescriptionA top-quality volume pedal with minimal deterioration in sound quality and outstanding usabilityA top-quality volume pedal with minimal deterioration in sound quality and outstanding usabilityA new standard in tough and compact volume pedalsA high-quality model that has been redesigned using the robust housing of the standard model.A balanced model that is robust and highly functionalMultifunctional for any purposeCompact
Can also be used as an EXP pedal
Highly versatile
Reference price35,024 yen26,224 yen10,450 yen20,900 yen12,650 yen20,625 yen20,900 yen
Shop URLRakuten
Amazon
Rakuten
Amazon
Rakuten
Amazon
Rakuten
Amazon
Rakuten
Amazon
Rakuten
Amazon
Rakuten
Amazon
Comparison of each product

\ Going to meet Sound House's sister /

An older sister I often see

Please use Sound House again next time.


Use gift cards to shop on Amazon!Cash charging is advantageous


Charge amountRegular memberPrime member
5,000 Yen ~0.5%1.0%
20,000 Yen ~1.0%1.5%
40,000 Yen ~1.5%2.0%
90,000 Yen ~2.0%2.5%
*Please note that the credit charge will be 0.5%!

The earlier you start, the more you can save.

Click here for detailed instructions!
  • CLICK HEREGet a gift certificate before shopping fromCharge with cash
  • Add what you want to buy to your shopping cart
  • Pay with gift voucherComplete
  • Earn up to 2.5% points every time you shop!

Comment:

To comment

table of contents