Morley - Cliff Burton Power Wah Boost

Underfoot, the Morley Cliff Burton Power Wah Boost’s toggle switch produces a nasal wail that opens and closes in time with the heel. This Wah-Wah and Boost effects pedal from the Tel-Ray Revival series is based on an analogue circuit with a warm tone. The Boost climbs up to +40 dB and is adjusted via the gain potentiometer, ranging from a subtle solo boost to a full-on surge. The electro-optical Wah circuit eliminates any potentiometer noise, ensuring the sweep remains crackle-free.

The cold-rolled steel housing features a chrome finish, which is also applied to the rocker switch, to withstand heel strikes. The phosphorescent coating ensures the surface remains visible in the dark. The raised base, inherited from the vintage Tel-Ray, positions the foot at the same angle as vintage pedals. Two LEDs show the status of the Wah and Boost at a glance. The more compact dimensions than the original – 174 x 114 x 82.5 mm – free up space on the pedalboard.

It all began in 1969 at Tel-Ray Electronics, when brothers Marv and Ray Lubow switched from repairing televisions and radios to making effects pedals. The design of the 1970s Tel-Ray pedals has been revived, and the 40 dB Boost is reminiscent of Cliff Burton’s pedal.

Two independent switches activate the Wah and Boost for simultaneous use. The pedal is suitable for guitars, basses and keyboards. It requires a 9 V mains adaptor, sold separately, such as the Morley 9 V or the Truetone One Spot.