How to Install Proximity Wahs on Guitars

The proximity wah is light years ahead of the wah pedal originally invented by Jimi Hendrix.

The Proximity wah pedal built by ZVEX Effects and called the Wah Probe, represents the new generation of wah pedal. Instead of using a large resistor that introduces a lot of static and noise into your guitar’s signal, a proximity wah uses a photoelectric sensor to manipulate the tone of your guitar. You work the wah pedal, you move your foot above it to change the amount of light that reaches the sensor in the pedal. The pedal acts like a traditional wah pedal but maintains a cleaner tone.

Things You'll Need

• 2 - 1/4-inch mono guitar cables

Instructions

1. Remove the battery cover and install a 9-volt battery. If you choose, you can forgo the use of a battery and plug a 9-volt DC (9VDC) power adapter into the power pot on the pedal. You must use a 9VDC power adapter that utilizes a negative-tip barrel connector.

2. Plug a 1/4-inch mono guitar cable into the output jack on your electric guitar and then plug the other end of that cable into the 1/4-inch input jack on your proximity wah.

3. Plug a 1/4-inch mono guitar cable into the output jack on your proximity wah and then plug the other end of that cable into the input jack or the effects loop jack of your amplifier to complete the installation process.

References

• ZVEX: Wah Probe Owner's Manual

Resources

• DIY Guitar Freak: DIY Proximity Wah