Collection: Pedal Controllers

Pedal Controllers: What to Know

Pedal controllers give you hands-free control over your keyboard, synth, or digital audio workstation. Sustain pedals are the most common: press to hold notes, release to let them decay. Expression pedals work like a volume or wah pedal, sending continuous MIDI CC data to control parameters like filter cutoff, reverb depth, or synth modulation. Foot controllers combine multiple switches and expression inputs in one unit, letting you trigger program changes, toggle effects, or control multiple parameters at once. Pianists, synth players, and live performers rely on these to keep their hands on the keys while controlling dynamics and effects.

What to Look For

Sustain pedals come in two types: simple switch-style pedals that work with most keyboards, and weighted piano-style pedals with progressive resistance that feel more like an acoustic piano. Check if your keyboard supports half-damper (continuous) sustain or just on/off switching. Expression pedals output either a voltage range or MIDI CC messages; make sure yours matches your gear's input type. Look for TRS or TS connectivity depending on your keyboard's expression input. Foot controllers should offer assignable switches, multiple expression inputs, and MIDI output via 5-pin DIN or USB. Build quality matters: metal housings and solid switches hold up better on stage than plastic. If you're using multiple pedals, consider a controller with auxiliary inputs so you can connect everything through one MIDI cable to your rig.

Top Brands

Studiologic-Fatar makes piano-style sustain pedals with authentic feel and half-damper support. Korg offers reliable switch pedals and expression controllers for synths and workstations. M-Audio and Roland cover the basics with affordable sustain and expression options for home studios and live use.

Shop Pedal Controllers at Blackout Audio

The right pedal controller turns your keyboard into a more expressive, playable instrument. Pair a sustain pedal with your stage piano or synth for realistic piano technique. Add an expression pedal to control your modular system, software synth parameters, or effects pedals without touching a knob. Free shipping on orders over $199 across Canada. Browse the full range online and contact our team with questions about compatibility or setup.