Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (13)
$199.00
Guitar Center
4.0 (2)
$199.00
Amazon
4.9 (14)
$199.00 New
$179.10 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (49)
$69.00 13 available Used
zZounds
5.0 (1)
$199.00

Average Price: $180

Standard/Professional

$75

$251+

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Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Electro-Optical Contour Wah Pedal". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unveiling the Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Electro-Optical Contour Wah Pedal, an instrument that brings together classic wah tones and modern features in an impeccable blend. Created in partnership with guitarist Steve Vai in the 1990s, this pedal has become a standard of Morley's product lineup and a familiar sight on professionals' pedalboards worldwide.

The pedal offers two Wah modes, providing a wide spectrum of tonal possibilities. The Contour mode lets you tweak the frequency and tone to your liking, while the level control provides an impressive 15 dBs for those moments when you need to rise above the crowd or blend seamlessly into the mix.

Say goodbye to awkward situations with Morley's acclaimed Switchless activation. Simply step on the treadle to engage the Wah and step off to bypass it. An ingenious spring mechanism underneath returns it to the off position, ensuring seamless transitions without any hitches.

Morley's Electro-Optical circuitry is another standout feature, offering unparalleled reliability and longevity. Unlike traditional potentiometers that wear out over time, this circuitry is built to last, delivering consistent performance for years on end.

Key Features:

  • Designed in collaboration with Steve Vai
  • Two Wah modes: Bad Horsie Wah and Contour Wah
  • Contour mode for frequency and tone adjustment
  • Level control with option of 15 dBs
  • Switchless activation for easy engagement and bypass
  • Dependable Electro-Optical circuitry
  • Premium Buffer circuit ensures pure guitar tone and output
  • Powered by one 9-volt battery or 9V adapter
  • Rugged cold-rolled steel housing
  • LED indication and quick clip battery door

Product specs

Pedal Type Switchless Optical Wah
Analog/Digital Analog
Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 1 x 1/4"
Switches Contour Wah
Controls Contour, Level
Bypass Switching 20/20 Buffer
Power Source 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Power Usage 12mA
Batteries 1 x 9V
Height 2.75"
Width 5.88"
Depth 9.13"
Weight 3.3 lbs.

FAQs

How does the Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Wah Pedal differ from traditional wah pedals?

The Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie is a switchless optical wah pedal, meaning it activates automatically when you step on it, unlike traditional wahs that require a switch. This provides a seamless and quick activation suited for live performances.

What power supply does the Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Wah Pedal require?

The pedal requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately. It can also be powered by a 9V battery for convenience.

Can the Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Wah Pedal be used with bass guitars?

Yes, the Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Wah Pedal can be used with bass guitars, offering a wide frequency range that accommodates both guitar and bass tones effectively.

What are the main controls on the Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Wah Pedal?

The pedal features Contour and Level controls, allowing you to shape the wah effect to your preference, providing versatility in tone crafting.

Does the Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Wah Pedal have true bypass?

The pedal uses a 20/20 buffer bypass, which maintains signal strength and clarity when the pedal is not engaged, differing from true bypass which completely removes the pedal from the signal path.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Electro-Optical Contour Wah Pedal.

Features and functionality

  • The pedal's switchless, spring-loaded design is appreciated for its natural feel and ease of use, especially for players with wide feet.

    Source
  • The Morley Bad Horsie 2 includes an internal trimpot for adjusting the wah signal cut-off timing, beneficial for those bothered by abrupt wah sound cessation.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users report issues with the optical reader alignment, affecting performance, and leading them to prefer other models like the Cry Baby.

    Source
  • The absence of an under-toe footswitch is highlighted as a significant advantage, eliminating common frustrations associated with traditional wah pedals.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the Morley Bad Horsie 2's heavier weight and smoother pedal feel, requiring more pressure to operate, which some find preferable.

    Source
  • Bassists have also successfully used the Morley Bad Horsie 2, and Morley's customer service is praised for support and repair assistance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Despite the convenience of the Bad Horsie, some players prefer the tonal quality of the Cry Baby wah pedals.

    Source

Build quality

  • It's noted that Morley pedals, including the Bad Horsie 2, can be modified by altering the shield/fin hole shape to customize the wah sweep.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Wacław Kiełtyka uses Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Electro-Optical Contour Wah Pedal

Wacław Kiełtyka

Guitarist, Composer

Decapitated

...
Verified via YouTube

He has this effect next to the Quad Cortex . Uses in 2026 on stage with Decapitated .

See how Moyses Kolesne uses Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Electro-Optical Contour Wah Pedal

Moyses Kolesne

Guitarist

Krisiun

...
Verified via YouTube

In the official video for "Blood Of Lions" by Krisiun, Moyses Kolesne is seen using the Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Electro-Optical Contour Wah Pedal.

M

Miles Doughty

Guitarist, Bassist

Slightly Stoopid

...
Verified via YouTube

At the 8:59 mark of this YouTube video, Miles Doughty confirms using the Morley Bad Horsie Wah Pedal.

The reason we use it is cuz a lot of the Wah Wahs you have to click in and out, you know, to go in and out... this kind of Wah Wah....I can get in there and step on it"

See how Ethan Meixsell uses Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Electro-Optical Contour Wah Pedal

Ethan Meixsell

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In the photo, Ethan Meixsell's setup includes the Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Electro-Optical Contour Wah Pedal, visible on the floor.

Album Usage

The Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Electro-Optical Contour Wah Pedal has been featured on the following albums:

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Morley Steve Vai Bad Horsie Electro-Optical Contour Wah Pedal, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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