Eric Clapton primarily used the Vox V846 Wah-Wah Pedal early in his career and later incorporated Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Wah Pedal and Dunlop 535Q Crybaby Wah Pedal into his rig.
Clapton's Early Wah Usage
Clapton's distinctive use of the wah-wah pedal became a signature part of his sound, notably during his time with the band Cream. He first introduced the wah-wah effect to audiences on iconic tracks such as "White Room" and "Tales Of Brave Ulysses," where its expressive qualities added a new dimension to his guitar playing.
During this foundational period with Cream, the specific pedal that shaped his sound was the Vox V846 Wah-Wah Pedal. This pedal was instrumental in defining the psychedelic and blues-rock sound that became synonymous with Cream's music.
Evolution of Clapton's Wah Pedals
While the Vox V846 Wah-Wah Pedal was a constant companion throughout various stages of his career, Clapton also expanded his pedalboard to include other wah models, particularly in his later years. This allowed him to explore different tonal nuances and respond to the evolving demands of his music.
The wah pedals associated with Eric Clapton include:
- Vox V846 Wah-Wah Pedal: His primary wah pedal during the Cream era and frequently used thereafter. Known for its classic, vocal-like sweep.
- Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Wah Pedal: A staple in many guitarists' setups, this pedal offered a robust and widely recognized wah effect that Clapton incorporated into his later setups.
- Dunlop 535Q Crybaby Wah Pedal: A more versatile wah pedal, the 535Q features controls for Q (the shape of the wah effect), volume boost, and six-position range selector, allowing for a wider array of wah tones to be sculpted.
Summary of Wah Pedals Used by Eric Clapton
To provide a clear overview, here's a table summarizing the wah pedals Clapton used and their general periods of use:
| Wah Pedal Model | Period of Use | Notable Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Vox V846 Wah-Wah Pedal | Early career (with Cream) & Later | Classic, vocal-like sweep; iconic 60s rock sound |
| Dunlop Crybaby GCB-95 Wah Pedal | Later career | Standard, reliable wah sound; popular industry workhorse |
| Dunlop 535Q Crybaby Wah Pedal | Later career | More versatile with adjustable Q, volume, and frequency range |
Clapton's choice of wah pedals demonstrates his commitment to crafting a distinct and evolving guitar tone, adapting his gear to suit the demands of his diverse musical journey.
