Dunlop Cry Baby 105Q Bass Wah

The Dunlop Cry Baby 105Q Bass Wah, introduced in 1999, is the first wah pedal designed specifically for bass players. Unlike traditional wah pedals, which often caused low-end loss, the 105Q was engineered to preserve the fundamental bass frequencies while adding a dynamic, growling wah effect. It features a Variable Q control to adjust the intensity and frequency range of the wah effect, a Volume knob for up to +20dB of gain boost, and a silent auto-return switch, which bypasses the pedal when not engaged. These features made it a versatile and essential tool for bassists across genres, allowing them to explore expressive tones without compromising their core sound.

Historical Development

  • Release (1999): The 105Q was developed to address the specific needs of bass players, offering a customized frequency range and components tailored for low-end instruments.
  • Design: It includes a Variable Q dial for tonal shaping, a Volume boost for added presence, and an auto-off feature for seamless operation during live performances.
  • Legacy: The 105Q remains one of the most popular bass wah pedals, influencing subsequent designs and becoming a staple on many professional pedalboards.

Notable Players

  • Tim Commerford (Rage Against the Machine): Used the 105Q extensively to craft his signature aggressive bass tone on tracks like "Calm Like a Bomb."
  • Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers): Incorporated it into his funk-inspired basslines for its growling and dynamic wah effect.
  • Justin Chancellor (Tool): Known for using the 105Q to add texture and movement to Tool's complex bass arrangements.
  • Doug Wimbish (Living Colour): Applied it creatively in his experimental and groove-driven playing style.

The 105Q's adjustable controls allow for a variety of applications:

  • Funky Wah: Set the Variable Q knob to a narrow range for sharp, vocal-like sweeps ideal for funk grooves.
  • Subtle Texture: Adjust the Volume knob slightly above unity gain with a wide Q setting for subtle movement in ambient or melodic passages.
  • Aggressive Boost: Max out the Volume knob with a midrange-focused Q setting for cutting through dense mixes during solos or heavy riffs.

Legacy

The Dunlop Cry Baby 105Q Bass Wah has redefined how bassists use wah effects. Its ability to enhance low-end frequencies while delivering expressive tonal options has made it an industry standard. With endorsements from players like Tim Commerford and Flea, the 105Q continues to inspire creativity across genres like funk, rock, and metal. Its enduring popularity underscores its status as one of the most innovative wah pedals ever made for bass guitar.

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