Ernie Ball 40th Anniversary Volume Pedal - Compact Slate Black

In this review the Ernie Ball 40th Anniversary Volume Pedal is judged as a compact, road-ready control solution for guitarists and bassists who want a reliable, smooth-sweeping volume control with a distinctive limited edition finish. The single biggest reason to consider this pedal is its combination of a virtually indestructible, compact aluminum chassis and an improved Kevlar cord that delivers precise, noise-minimized volume transitions without requiring any power. For players who prefer tactile, predictable foot control and durability that stands up to heavy use, this anniversary edition is a clear contender.

Key Features

• Limited edition finish: The slate black aluminum chassis gives a striking stage presence while remaining tough and low-maintenance for touring use.
• Improved Kevlar cord: The redesigned cord enhances potentiometer traction for a smoother foot sweep and more exact volume adjustments.
• Works with active or passive signals: Players can use the pedal with a wide range of instruments and pickups without compatibility worries.
• Switchable taper: Two distinct swell rates let musicians choose between gradual or more immediate volume changes to suit playing style.
• No power required: The passive design means no batteries or power supply are needed, simplifying rig setup and reliability.

Who It's For

The 40th Anniversary Volume Pedal is best for gigging guitarists and bassists who value build quality and a smooth, reliable sweep for ambient swells, volume-based dynamics, or traditional pedal control. Its compact extruded aluminum housing and improved cord make it especially suitable for players who move gear frequently or need a pedal that tolerates heavy use.

Players who should look elsewhere include those who need digital features such as expression-to-MIDI conversion or programmable presets, since this is a straightforward passive volume pedal focused on mechanical reliability rather than onboard effects or power-hungry electronics.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality in a compact, virtually indestructible aluminum chassis.
• Smooth, responsive volume control thanks to the upgraded Kevlar cord and improved potentiometer traction.
• Flexible compatibility with both active and passive signals and a switchable taper for different playing styles.
• No power required, reducing setup complexity and failure points on stage.

Cons

• As a passive, single-function pedal it lacks digital features or expression outputs for players wanting advanced integration.

Specifications

Brand	Ernie Ball
Model	40th Anniversary Volume Pedal (P06110)
Finish	Limited edition slate black aluminum
Cord	Improved Kevlar cord for precise control
Signal compatibility	Works with active and passive signals
Taper	Switchable taper for two swell rates
Power	No power required (passive)

Our Verdict

The Ernie Ball 40th Anniversary Volume Pedal is a durable, well-engineered option for players who need precise, quiet volume control in a compact package. Its improved Kevlar cord and switchable taper make it versatile for different techniques, and the passive design reduces complexity on stage. For those who prioritize mechanical reliability and smooth feel over digital extras, it represents strong value and long-term dependability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this pedal need batteries or a power supply?
No, the pedal is passive and requires no batteries or external power.

Will it work with active pickups and bass guitars?
Yes, the pedal is compatible with both active and passive signals, making it suitable for guitars and basses.

What difference does the Kevlar cord make?
The redesigned Kevlar cord improves potentiometer traction for smoother, more precise volume sweeps and better long-term reliability.