Warm Audio WA-C1 Stereo Chorus Vibrato Pedal: Analog Magic, Modern Control

Listen First: Audio Summary of the WA-C1 Pedal Review 🎧
Prefer to listen rather than read? Dive into our audio summary, where we explore the features, design, and tonal qualities of the Warm Audio WA-C1 Stereo Chorus Vibrato Pedal. Whether you’re a fan of classic 70s modulation or looking for modern flexibility, our podcast has you covered.

Warm Audio WA-C1 – Introduction

The Warm Audio WA-C1 Stereo Chorus Vibrato Pedal blends the legendary warmth of analog chorus and vibrato with modern features designed for today’s guitarists. Inspired by one of the most celebrated chorus pedals in history, this all-analog pedal recreates those lush, modulated tones and expands them with added depth and rate control. Whether you’re in search of a rich, midrange-heavy chorus or a wavy vibrato, the WA-C1 offers it all—perfect for both vintage tone lovers and players looking to push beyond those boundaries.

Design and Aesthetics

The WA-C1 delivers a simple yet retro design that pays homage to the classic analog pedals from the late 70s. With its sturdy metal housing and compact size, this pedal is built to endure both the studio and the stage. The controls are clean and straightforward, allowing guitarists to dial in their preferred modulation without any fuss. Featuring independent depth and rate controls for both the chorus and vibrato modes, it offers far more flexibility than its vintage predecessors.

In addition to its tonal capabilities, the high/low impedance switch allows users to optimize the pedal for either guitar or keyboard, ensuring it fits seamlessly into various rigs. Whether you’re going for 70s-inspired darker chorus tones or crisper, brighter sounds, the WA-C1 will adapt.

Sound Quality: Chorus and Vibrato Performance

The sound quality of the WA-C1 can be described as rich and lush, offering a true-to-original analog tone. The use of an MN3007 BBD chip ensures the pedal delivers that unmistakable warmth and character often associated with vintage analog modulation.

The chorus effect produces a deep, shimmering tone that ranges from subtle to expansive. When fully dialed in, the chorus is thick, midrange-focused, and beautifully complements clean guitar tones, much like the 70s and 80s modulation effects heard on records from artists like Queen, The Police, and Rush.

On the other hand, the vibrato mode introduces a smooth, wave-like modulation, adding depth and dimension to your playing. This effect can be subtle enough to mimic a rotary speaker or bold enough to create a distinctive wobble that cuts through the mix. Many musicians find the vibrato especially appealing for genres like funk, blues, and experimental rock.

Modern Flexibility with Vintage Roots

The Warm Audio WA-C1 adds a range of modern features that set it apart from other chorus/vibrato pedals. One key improvement is the separate depth and rate controls for each mode. On vintage units, you often had a fixed intensity knob that limited customization. With the WA-C1, you have full control over how much or how little modulation you want, from slow, subtle warbles to fast, dynamic waves.

The preamp section is another standout feature. Even when the pedal is in bypass mode, the preamp adds a subtle warmth and natural compression that enhances your tone. This gives your guitar sound a slight boost, ensuring that your signal remains rich, even if you aren’t using the modulation effects. For those who love analog pedals for their tonal character, the WA-C1 doesn’t disappoint.

Community Opinion: What Guitarists Are Saying

The WA-C1 has generated excitement among both professional musicians and hobbyists. In a recent forum thread, a member shared their thoughts on the pedal:
“I’ve been impressed with Warm Audio’s stuff before, but the WA-C1 really nails the classic chorus sound. It’s lush without being overbearing, and having the separate depth and rate controls make a world of difference. For the price, it’s a steal, and I’m definitely adding it to my board.”

This sentiment was echoed by several other users, who praised the pedal’s analog tone and versatility. One community forum member noted:
“It’s great that they added the impedance switch. I’ve noticed a lot more clarity when using it with my guitar directly. That extra flexibility makes it a standout for both live performances and recording.”

Warm Audio WA-C1 Chorus & Vibrato Pedal Video Demo

For those looking to get a real-world taste of the WA-C1, we recommend watching the WA-C1 Chorus & Vibrato Pedal Demo video below. In this video, guitarist Chris Condon walks through the pedal’s key features, showcasing its lush chorus and wavy vibrato effects. Condon also demonstrates how to set up the pedal for different genres, providing valuable insights into how to dial in both subtle and bold modulation tones.

The video offers a detailed side-by-side comparison of the WA-C1 and its vintage counterpart, giving viewers a clear sense of how closely Warm Audio has matched the original’s sound while introducing modern improvements.

Versatility: Adapting to Multiple Genres

While the Warm Audio WA-C1 excels in producing vintage-inspired tones, it also shines in its ability to fit into a wide range of genres. From adding subtle texture to clean jazz tones to creating thick, modulated sounds in rock and indie tracks, the pedal’s versatility makes it a valuable tool for musicians of all stripes. The vibrato mode can be especially useful for experimental music, adding a unique, warbly effect that cuts through any mix.

For those seeking a 70s dark chorus, simply engage the low impedance setting and dial in a slower rate. Alternatively, for an 80s pristine chorus, switch to high impedance, increase the rate, and enjoy the shimmering highs.

Warm Audio WA-C1 – Build Quality and Durability

Warm Audio has always been known for producing durable gear, and the WA-C1 is no exception. The pedal’s solid construction ensures that it can withstand heavy use, both in the studio and on the road. The metal housing protects the delicate circuitry inside, while the high-quality components, such as the Xvive MN3007 BBD chip, promise long-lasting performance.

The pedal’s robust build also ensures that it holds up well against daily wear and tear. Whether you’re performing on stage or lugging it between jam sessions, you can count on the WA-C1 to stay in top condition.

Specs: Warm Audio WA-C1 Stereo Chorus Vibrato Pedal

For those who appreciate detailed information, here are the full specifications of the Warm Audio WA-C1 Stereo Chorus Vibrato Pedal:

• Controls: High/Low Input Sensitivity, Preamp Level, Chorus Depth & Rate, Vibrato Depth & Rate, Effect On/Off, Chorus/Vibrato Switch, Hi-Z On/Off
• Components:
  • (5X) Integrated Circuits (ICs), including 3 Texas Instruments Premium Audio Op Amps
  • (11X) Transistors
  • (3X) FETs
  • (19X) Diodes
  • (2X) MOSFETs
• Power consumption: 800mW; 90mA at 9V
• Input sensitivity: 80mV / 10mV
• Output level: 315mV
• S/N ratio: 60 dB
• Input/Output: 1 input (mono), 2 outputs (stereo)
• Dimensions: Width: 6.5″, Height: 1.6″, Depth: 3.8″
• Weight: 1.9 lbs
• BBD Chip: Xvive MN3007 Bucket Brigade Device chip for lush analog chorus
• Power supply: Requires 9V DC power (external power supply not included)

Is the WA-C1 Worth It?

At an MSRP of $189, the Warm Audio WA-C1 Stereo Chorus Vibrato Pedal offers excellent value for money. It combines vintage analog tones with modern features like impedance switching and independent control over depth and rate. Considering the quality of the preamp and the lush sound of the chorus and vibrato modes, this pedal is a solid investment for any guitarist looking to add classic modulation to their rig.

FAQ: Warm Audio WA-C1 Stereo Chorus Vibrato Pedal

Q: What is the difference between chorus and vibrato?

A: Chorus and vibrato are both modulation effects, but they work differently.

• Chorus: It creates the illusion of multiple instruments playing in unison by slightly delaying the original signal and modulating its pitch. This results in a lush, thick sound, giving the impression of multiple voices or instruments playing together.
• Vibrato: It directly modulates the pitch of the sound, creating a subtle or intense wobble in the signal. Vibrato can add a wave-like motion to your tone, creating a shimmery or warbly effect, perfect for adding depth or unique character to your playing.

Q: What makes the WA-C1 unique compared to other chorus and vibrato pedals?

A: The WA-C1 is a faithful analog recreation of one of the most celebrated chorus and vibrato pedals in history. It stands out with:

• 100% analog preamp for pure, unprocessed tones.
• Bucket Brigade Device (BBD) chip, carefully recreated by Xvive, known for delivering lush midrange depth and rich modulation.
• Separate controls for depth and rate on both the chorus and vibrato settings, offering players more flexibility compared to vintage units.
• The Hi-Z switch, which compensates for different input impedances, making it ideal for guitars or keyboards, ensuring clarity even when bypassed.

Q: What type of music can benefit from using the Warm Audio WA-C1?

A: The WA-C1 is versatile and can be used across many genres. It shines in:

• Rock (e.g., adding depth to clean or distorted tones).
• Funk (e.g., for that wobbly, rhythmic vibrato).
• Blues and Jazz (e.g., adding subtle modulation for expressive solos).
• Alternative and Indie (e.g., adding lush choruses for ambient or dreamy sounds). It is also used in classic tones by artists like The Police, Queen, and Red Hot Chili Peppers, making it perfect for guitarists inspired by these legends.

Q: Can the WA-C1 handle both mono and stereo outputs?

A: Yes, the WA-C1 comes equipped with mono and stereo outputs, giving users more flexibility for their setups. You can run it in mono for standard pedalboard setups or take advantage of stereo output to create more spacious, immersive modulation effects.

Q: Is this pedal good for beginners?

A: Absolutely! The WA-C1 is user-friendly and intuitive, but it also offers enough depth and versatility for advanced players. Beginners can explore both chorus and vibrato effects easily, while more experienced players will appreciate the fine control over depth, rate, and preamp settings.

Q: Does the WA-C1 work with both electric guitars and keyboards?

A: Yes! The pedal features a Hi-Z switch on the back, which allows players to compensate for higher impedance in guitars versus keyboards. This makes it a versatile tool for musicians who play multiple instruments.

Q: How does the WA-C1 compare to digital pedals?

A: The WA-C1 is a 100% analog pedal, offering rich, authentic modulation tones that digital emulation pedals struggle to match. It uses an analog preamp that adds natural compression and color to your signal, providing warmth and depth that digital circuits often miss.

Warm Audio WA-C1 Wrapped Up: The Perfect Blend of Vintage and Modern

The Warm Audio WA-C1 isn’t just a recreation of a classic—it’s an evolution. With its lush analog sound, flexible controls, and robust build, it’s perfect for players seeking both vintage authenticity and modern versatility. Whether you’re into clean tones with a touch of chorus or love experimenting with vibrant, wobbly vibrato, the WA-C1 will quickly become a go-to pedal on your board.

Ready to experience the WA-C1 for yourself? Check it out on the ZZounds website and grab yours today via Get My Guitar!

Join the Conversation!

We’d love to hear what you think about the Warm Audio WA-C1 Chorus & Vibrato Pedal. Have you tried it out yet? What’s your favorite setting? Share your thoughts, experiences, and any questions in the comments below. Don’t forget to explore more reviews and articles on our Guitar Blog for everything you need to know about the latest gear and trends in the guitar world!