Tech 21 introduced two Killer Wail Limited Edition wah pedals in late 2024 that were sold directly through their Private Stock division via Reverb. Given their success, Tech 21 has commenced full-scale production for worldwide availability, and has also added a new bass wah:
- Killer Wail v2
- Richie Kotzen Signature RK Killer Wail
- Killer Blue Wail for bass
The Killer Wails not only preserve the indelible tonal integrity of vintage wahs, they overcome their all-too-familiar shortcomings, such as excessive noise and unreliable mechanical parts. Utilizing light sensor technology, there are no clunky pops, no irritating scratching sounds, and no pots to wear out and replace. Machined from solid billet aluminum, the heavy-duty housing will provide long life —on and off the road.
To faithfully reproduce beloved vintage wah sounds, the Killer Wails utilize a specially-designed filter, rather than a simple band-pass or low-pass filter. It not only changes the frequency, it also changes the Q, which is the sharpness of the filter. And unlike guitar wahs, the Killer Blue Wail for bass keeps the low-end intact.
The Killer Wail v2 sports a traditional treadle, while both the Richie Kotzen Signature RK Killer Wail and the Killer Blue Wail feature a spring-loaded rocker. It returns the treadle to its resting/bypass position when you remove your foot from the pedal and automatically engages when you press forward on the pedal.
Operable via standard 9V alkaline battery or optional Tech 21 DC9 power supply. Measures 3.375”w x 8.0”l x 1.75”h and weighs 24 oz.
A limited amount of the Private Stock Killer Wails are still available in the U.S. on Reverb.
Anticipated worldwide availability: April/May 2025
