Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (55)
$199.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (20)
$199.99
Reverb
5.0 (53)
$146.42 New
$99.00 Used

Average Price: $169

Standard/Professional

$75

$251+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Dunlop Cry Baby MC404". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into a world of expressive sound with the Dunlop Cry Baby MC404, a wah pedal designed for guitarists who demand versatility and precision. Created in collaboration with Bob Bradshaw of Custom Audio Electronics, this pedal stands out with its dual Fasel inductors, offering a choice between high-end and low-mid voicings to tailor your tone to perfection. The MC404's internal Q and gain trim pots provide further customization, allowing you to fine-tune the sweep's contour and output to match your unique playing style.

The built-in Boost/Line Driver is perfect for cutting through the mix, adding extra power to your solos or rhythm work with just the flick of a switch. The rugged construction ensures that this pedal is ready for the road, delivering reliable performance gig after gig. Whether you're laying down tracks in the studio or wowing crowds on stage, the Dunlop Cry Baby MC404 is your ticket to dynamic expression and sonic creativity.

Key Features:

  • Dual Fasel inductors for high-end and low-mid voicings
  • Internal Q and gain trim pots for customizable sweep and output
  • Built-in Boost/Line Driver for added power
  • Designed in collaboration with Custom Audio Electronics
  • Rugged construction for durability and reliability

Product specs

Brand Dunlop
Model MC404 CAE Custom Audio Electronics Wah
Finish Black
Year 2010 - 2025
Made In United States
Categories Filter and Wah Pedals
Pedal Format Standard

FAQs

What are the tonal options available with the Dunlop Cry Baby MC404?

The Dunlop Cry Baby MC404 offers two distinct tonal options through its dual Fasel inductors. You can switch between the Yellow and Red inductors using the side-mounted kickswitch, providing different wah characteristics for versatile sound shaping.

Does the Dunlop Cry Baby MC404 have a built-in boost feature?

Yes, the Dunlop Cry Baby MC404 includes a built-in MXR MC-401 Boost/LineDriver. This feature allows you to enhance your signal with a user-selectable gain output stage, activated via a kick switch with an LED indicator.

How does the Dunlop Cry Baby MC404 indicate its operational status?

The pedal features bright LEDs to indicate the effect status, inductor mode, and whether the boost is on or off, providing clear visual cues for easy use during performances.

What power options are available for the Dunlop Cry Baby MC404?

The Dunlop Cry Baby MC404 can be powered using a 9-volt battery, an ECB-003 power adapter, or a Dunlop DC Brick multi-power supply, offering flexible power solutions for different setups.

Is the Dunlop Cry Baby MC404 suitable for noise-sensitive environments?

Yes, the Dunlop Cry Baby MC404 is designed with low noise class 'A' operational amplifiers and a custom designed CTS extended life low noise potentiometer, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments.

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Custom Audio Electronics CAE MC-404 Wah

Video thumbnail for Custom Audio Electronics CAE MC-404 Wah by ProGuitarShopDemos

Custom Audio Electronics CAE MC-404 Wah

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for MC404 CAE Wah by jimdunlopusa

MC404 CAE Wah

jimdunlopusa

jimdunlopusa

Video thumbnail for Dunlop MC-404 CAE Wah Pedal Review by Sweetwater Sound by Sweetwater

Dunlop MC-404 CAE Wah Pedal Review by Sweetwater Sound

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for MC404 CAE vs Dunlop Cantrell Wah by Erik Z

MC404 CAE vs Dunlop Cantrell Wah

Erik Z

Erik Z

Video thumbnail for Comparativo CAE MC404 vs Original Dunlop Crybaby by hmforever

Comparativo CAE MC404 vs Original Dunlop Crybaby

hmforever

hmforever

Video thumbnail for MC404 by Easy Music Center

MC404

Easy Music Center

Easy Music Center

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Dunlop Cry Baby MC404.

Features and functionality

  • The Dunlop Cry Baby MC404 features a side switch to toggle between red and yellow fasel inductors, with LEDs indicating the selection for clear tonal distinction.

    Source
  • The internal trimpots control boost and Q settings, offering significant tonal customization for users seeking specific sound profiles.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest covering the opening where spokes enter the circuit with electrical tape to minimize dust exposure and potential damage.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The internal trim pots for each inductor are adjustable, allowing users to fine-tune the brightness and gain to their preference, but accessing them requires pedal disassembly.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users find the pedal size cumbersome for transport without a dedicated board, despite appreciating the larger footprint for playing.

    Source
  • The pedal's versatility shines as it seamlessly transitions from vintage tones on clean settings to modern wah effects with distortion, appealing to diverse musical styles.

    Source
  • Owners transitioning from cheaper Cry Baby models note the MC404's refined sound and responsiveness, making it a preferred choice for hard rock styles.

    Source
  • After initial setup, some users plan to open the pedal to fine-tune settings, indicating potential for customization beyond factory defaults.

    Source

Build quality

  • The battery compartment design is criticized for its potential to damage wiring during access, suggesting a need for improvement.

    Source
  • Owners report that the CAE version uses the highest quality components inside, maintaining pristine condition even with regular use, including durable rubber feet and a sturdy bottom plate.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The built-in boost circuit enhances vintage tones for genres like 70s rock; however, it introduces some hiss at the toe-down position.

    Source
  • The MC404's clean sweep is praised for enhancing hard rock tones, fitting seamlessly into pedal chains alongside low, mid, and high-gain pedals.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners transitioning from other wah models, like the Vox V848, appreciate the Dunlop Cry Baby MC404's superior tweakability and robust build quality, addressing common issues like loose rubber feet.

    Source
  • Some owners initially preferred The Elements pedal for clean boosts but transitioned to the Wampler Tumnus for more pleasing rock rhythm tones, highlighting the MC404's compatibility with various drives.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Dunlop MC-404 CAE Wah Pedal Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Dunlop Cry Baby MC404 CAE Wah pedal delivers exceptional versatility with its dual Fasel inductors, allowing players to switch between deep and classic wah tones effortlessly. The integrated MXR boost adds an extra tonal kick, complemented by user-friendly controls and bright LEDs for easy operation. While the pedal's extensive features may overwhelm those seeking simplicity, its rich tonal options and high-quality build make it a standout choice for serious musicians. Overall, the MC404 is a must-try for any wah enthusiast looking to elevate their sound.

positive

Dunlop Custom Audio Electronics Wah Review (MC404)

cigilovic.com

The Dunlop Cry Baby MC404 delivers a powerhouse of versatility and quality, boasting dual Fasel inductors and a built-in boost that many players will appreciate. With its sturdy construction and true bypass switching, it’s built to last and enhances tonal clarity. However, the Red inductor can produce overly aggressive sounds, which may not suit all setups. While the price might raise eyebrows, the legendary design by Bob Bradshaw justifies the investment for serious players. Overall, it's a reliable choice for those seeking a robust and feature-rich wah pedal, but users should be cautious with setting adjustments to avoid tonal pitfalls.

positive

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