Behringer Hellbabe HB01 Wah Pedal

This second hand wah is in very good condition

The Behringer HB01 Hellbabe Wah is an affordable and feature-packed wah pedal, designed to offer customizable tones, optical control for durability, and a built-in boost. Unlike traditional wah pedals like the Dunlop Cry Baby, the Hellbabe provides adjustable frequency ranges, variable Q controls, and an optical sensor instead of a physical potentiometer—a feature usually found on more expensive wahs. But does it deliver in real-world use? Let’s find out.

Build and Design

The Hellbabe sports a black plastic chassis with a futuristic, aggressive design. While some may prefer a metal enclosure for durability, the reinforced plastic build is surprisingly sturdy. The optical control mechanism eliminates the wear and tear of traditional wah pots, meaning no scratchy sounds over time.

Key Features:

Optical control (no moving parts for longer lifespan)
Adjustable range & Q control for tone customization
Dedicated boost switch (up to +15dB) for extra gain
Spring-back pedal mechanism (optional setting)
True bypass switching

Sound Quality & Performance

The Hellbabe HB01 delivers a wide range of wah tones, from classic vintage sweeps to modern aggressive voicings. Thanks to the Q and frequency range controls, it can be fine-tuned for different playing styles, whether you need subtle funk filtering or screaming lead tones.

Classic wah sounds are warm and expressive
Modern settings allow for a sharper, more aggressive sweep
Adjustable Q control makes it more versatile than many budget wahs
Boost switch is great for solos, adding extra gain and presence

However, the tone can be a bit thin on certain settings, and it may not have the same organic warmth as high-end wah pedals like the Vox V847 or Dunlop Cry Baby 535Q.

Usability & Feel

The optical sensor mechanism ensures smooth, silent operation without the scratchiness that traditional wahs develop over time.

Spring-back pedal option helps return to the default position automatically
Smooth and responsive sweep

Who Is This Wah For?

Budget-conscious players looking for a versatile wah
Guitarists who want more tone-shaping control (adjustable Q and range)
Players looking for a low-maintenance wah (optical sensor = no worn-out pots)
Musicians who need a built-in boost for solos

The Behringer HB01 Hellbabe Wah is one of the most feature-packed wah pedals in the budget category. With adjustable tone settings, an optical sensor for durability, and a built-in boost, it offers more flexibility than most entry-level wahs. While the plastic build may concern some players, and the tone isn’t as organic as high-end options, it delivers solid performance at a fraction of the price.