ShortScale.org

Please give me recommendations on volume and expression pedals (separate and/or combined).

I want something that is reasonably robust and that I won't have to upgrade. I don't want anything too pricey though.

Thanks

While volume pedals are universally compatible, expression pedals generally aren't and need to be matched to the pedal/unit you're using them with; it's all down to the way the pedal is wired, not to mention the pot value being used inside.

I picked up an Alesis F2 a few years back for my Boss PS-5 for Whammy-style fun- it can work as a volume pedal, expression pedal or both. It's a well thought-out design (polarity switch to make it compatible as an exp. with more units), but I had some problems with the actual rocking motion initially.

It's got some kind of internal spring-action (rather than a wah-style mechanism) that needed adjusting and lubricating properly from the inside from brand new. Also had to replace the 1/4" socket with a hardwired lead. Hmmmmmmmmm... maybe don't get a F2, actually.

Doog just talked his way out of that Alesis sales rep job there.

Srsly, I need to get myself an expression pedal or two to really utilise the Ring Thing and Holy Stain properly. The manuals are good though, as they recommend third-party expression pedals that will work, and ones that won't. Have a look at the manual for whatever it is you're buying the exp pedal for, it should give you a good idea.

The M-Audio one comes up often though, and it's one of the cheapest ones I've ever seen at £25 from GAK. It's a moulded plastic thing so not exactly the sturdiest piece of machinery you'll put your foot on possibly (I don't know, I don't have one, I'm just making a wild, wild, wild assumption), but it's at least an inexpensive place to start if you can't track down a list of manufacturers that will deffo work with your pedal.