Walrus Audio Canvas Expression Pedal: The Most Control ever?
Fully customisable expression for your rig
The Walrus Audio Canvas Expression pedal follows on from their Canvas Volume pedal, launched earlier this year. It supports expression, MIDI, USB-C, and Control Voltage, making it the ultimate expression platform for your rig.
Contents – Walrus Audio Canvas Expression
Canvas Expression
The new Walrus Audio Canvas Expression follows in the footsteps of the Canvas Volume pedal, sharing a similar form factor with a rugged enclosure made from steel and aluminum.
The core of the pedal is based on a contactless magnetic position sensor, which means it won’t wear out, unlike the strings, gears, and potentiometers used in other expression pedals.
Web Editor
It also ensures a super-smooth tracking response, and Walrus Audio has given the pedal adjustable tapers, so that users can set the feel of the expression pedal. They have also created the Canvas Expression web editor, allowing users to fully customise the pedal to their tastes. It includes control over tapers, wiring, MIDI CC and PC assignments, CV settings, switch behavior, and more.
With Jack A and Jack B analog outputs (for expression, CV, and switch out) that support TRS, TS, and RTS, plus MIDI on 1/8-inch mini-jack connections and via the USB-C (also supports firmware updates), the web app can assign them as required.
LEDs
Located under the pedal’s treadle, the lower interface features two directional arrow buttons and four parameter LEDs directly above them. These LEDs show which of the four editable parameters—TYPE, WIRE, DIR, or X—is currently selected for editing.
Who is it for?
If you have more complex expression pedal requirements, the Canvas Expression could well be exactly what you need. It can be set up and customised, and it supports multiple control formats, including high-resolution MIDI and CV; therefore, it may also appeal to synth users.
However, if you just need an expression pedal for one parameter of a single effect pedal, it could well be overkill. I can see it being a great solution for touring musicians, who require a robust system for playing live and in the studio. It powers from standard 9 V negative-tip 300mA power supplies, so it will easily integrate into most setups.
At a retail price of $299.99, it is an investment for anyone who uses a lot of control data with their pedalboard or gear setups.
Price & Availability
The Walrus Audio Canvas Expression is available now from Thomann and Sweetwater.
More Information
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One response to “Walrus Audio Canvas Expression Pedal: The Most Control ever?”
Now make one with a long-throw Hammond-type angle, like Yamaha’s own FC7. Be sure to include Yamaha’s system for being able to be run as flat to raised angle (sitting vs standing foot angles)…