MXR MC404 CAE Wah Pedal Buyers Guide Review (January 2021)
MXR MC404 CAE Wah Pedal
- ✔ Custom Designed CTS Potentiometer
- ✔ User Selectable Gain Output Stage With Kick Switch
- ✔ Built In Boost/LineDriver
- ✔ True Bypass Switching
- Custom-designed CTS Extended Life
- True bypass
- Battery or Dunlop adapter
- Made in USA
The MC404 CAE Wah was developed by Bob Bradshaw of Custom Audio Electronics and the Cry Baby design team with the goal of creating a highly versatile wah-wah of top-grade components. It features dual Fasel inductors with two distinct voices (high-end emphasis or low to mid resonance), and a built-in MXR MC401 Boost/LineDriver adds even more flexibility.
Choose between inductors and turn the boost on or off with the side-mounted kickswitches; bright LEDs on each side of the wah indicate operation status. The MC404 boasts true hardwire bypass, a long-life CTS potentiometer, and internal pots for “Q” and gain adjustments.
This wah is manufactured by Dunlop but was designed by Bob Bradshaw, which makes it more of a CAE than a Dunlop. Having the red and yellow settings is like having two wahs in one, both of which are awesome in their own respects. The red has a deep voice that’s somewhat muddy. The yellow could be described as a funky, well balanced tone.
The boost function is an excellent touch, adding a nice helping of overdrive which you can tailor to your sound without creating a bunch of nasty feedback.
Overall we love everything about this pedal, from the tone and the ease of operation, right down to the LEDs and durable chassis. Well worth considering!