MusicRadar Verdict
While the looks aren't to everyone's taste, this is a seriously impressive wah pedal that's well worth trying out.
Pros
- +
Lovely mid-range sweep. Bright status LEDs.
Cons
- -
Garish graphics (yes, we know that's the point). On/off switch easily disengaged.
MusicRadar's got your back
It's not an effect that Mr Van Halen is particularly known for, but it's something he uses nevertheless.
In Use
Looking at EVH's own Cry Baby, customised in the early 90s with a High Q inductor and a wider frequency sweep to create a more 'vocal' sound, MXR designers found that Ed's extended use of that pedal in one area of its travel had physically altered the pot to make the mid-range even more defined and give a greater low-end sweep.
With these elements integrated into the signature model, the result is a pedal with a voice that defines what wah is all about. With a smooth sweep that seems to emphasise all the right frequencies and is capable of fat, chewy vocal-esque leads, it made our regular Cry Baby sound listless and anodyne in comparison.
Two bright blue LEDs easily let you see when the effect is active, but one concern is that the on/off switch under the treadle did not have as much resistance as our stock wah, making it a little too easy to inadvertently turn the effect off when getting a little heavy-footed on the old funk wacka wacka.
Summary
It's pricey but EVH fans will be tempted regardless. More conservative souls may find the graphics a little garish - all we'll say is don't look down and use your ears, because it sounds fantastic.
“Sometimes I am two people. Johnny is the nice one. Cash causes all the trouble. They fight”: How Johnny Cash drew on his own experiences to make his greatest songs
“For those on the hunt for a great quality 12-string electro-acoustic that won’t break the bank, it's a no-brainer”: Martin X Series Remastered D-X2E Brazilian 12-String review
“I have that on more records than anything else”: Take a peek inside Vaughn Oliver’s studio