A Classic Reborn with Modern Enhancements
Few modulation pedals have achieved the legendary status of the Boss VB-2 Vibrato. Originally released in the 1980s, the VB-2 was ahead of its time, offering a unique pitch modulation effect that provided a lush, warbling vibrato unlike anything else on the market. However, its short production run led to it becoming one of the most sought-after pedals in Boss’ history, with vintage units commanding high prices on the used market.
With the VB-2W Waza Craft, Boss has faithfully recreated this classic pedal while introducing modern enhancements that expand its tonal capabilities. Retaining the all-analog bucket brigade circuit of the original, the VB-2W delivers the same expressive and organic vibrato effect while offering additional control and flexibility.
Classic and Custom: Two Modes of Vibrato
One of the most exciting aspects of the VB-2W is its dual operation modes:
- “Standard” Mode: Faithfully replicates the original VB-2’s lush vibrato, perfect for players who want to experience the vintage sound.
- “Custom” Mode: Adds more depth, warmth, and presence to the effect, making it even richer and more dynamic.
This added functionality allows musicians to tailor the vibrato effect to their personal taste, making it suitable for everything from subtle pitch modulation to deep, seasick warbles.
A Perfect Match for Fretless Bass
While many guitarists have praised the VB-2W, bass players—particularly those who play fretless—can unlock its full potential. The pedal’s ability to produce smooth, undulating pitch shifts complements the natural singing quality of fretless bass, allowing for expressive, almost vocal-like phrasing. By carefully adjusting the depth and rate controls, fretless players can enhance their gliding lines and melodic movement, achieving a unique sonic identity.
Legendary bassist Juan Alderete, known for his work with The Mars Volta, has been one of the most vocal proponents of the VB-2. His innovative use of the pedal has demonstrated how it can transform a bass player’s tone, adding an extra layer of movement and emotion to the sound.
Pedal Controls and Features
The VB-2W offers intuitive yet powerful controls that make shaping the vibrato effect simple:
- Rate – Adjusts the speed of the vibrato, from slow waves to fast modulation.
- Depth – Controls the intensity of the pitch modulation.
- Rise Time – Determines how quickly the effect reaches full intensity after being activated.
- Mode Switch – Select between Latch, Unlatch, or Bypass modes:
- Latch Mode – The effect stays engaged until turned off.
- Unlatch Mode – The vibrato is only active while the footswitch is held down, allowing for momentary effects.
- Bypass Mode – The pedal is completely bypassed.
Additionally, an expression pedal input allows for real-time control of vibrato depth, making it even more versatile for live performance.
As expected from Boss’ Waza Craft series, the VB-2W is built to last, featuring the brand’s signature tank-like construction. The pedal comes equipped with:
- Mono Input & Output – Standard 1/4” jacks for traditional pedalboard integration.
- Expression Pedal Input – Enables real-time depth control with an external expression pedal.
- Buffered Bypass Circuit – Ensures a strong, clear signal when the pedal is disengaged.
- Compact Footprint – Standard Boss pedal enclosure that fits seamlessly into any setup.
Conclusion
The Boss VB-2W Waza Craft Vibrato is more than just a reissue—it’s an evolution of a cult classic. By maintaining the magic of the original while adding enhanced tonal options, improved circuitry, and increased flexibility, Boss has made the VB-2W an essential tool for bass players.
For bass players, the organic pitch modulation, expressive controls, and beautifully smooth vibrato make this pedal an outstanding choice—especially for fretless bassists looking to add extra character to their playing. Whether you’re chasing vintage vibrato tones or exploring new sonic landscapes, the VB-2W stands as one of the best vibrato pedals ever made.
