Zoom FP02M Expression Pedal

I've had the Zoom505II for a while and have found it to be a reliable workhorse of a pedal. I found that Thomann sold the add on FP02M Expression pedal so I decided to add this to get the most out of the 505.

Well I was really surprised that most of the 505 presets are pre-wired to use the expression pedal, either to toggle an effect like vibrato speed, or pitch, but failing that it would work as a volume pedal. It is also easy to assign the FP02M to custom 505 settings. Pretty soon I was waling away wahwah fashion like Jimi Hendrix.

What most impressed me, after a few run ins with inferior expression type pedals was the build quailty - this is a tough unit, solidly built and with the obvious intention of withstanding abuse on the road. A very good buy as an addition to my Zoom effects.

I bought the FP02 after using my Zoom B3 for quiet a while. While most effects are fine without an Expression Pedal, Wahs, different kinds of Filters and some delays really need the option to adjust them by this pedal. The pedal can be used to control either Vol Input, Output, Balance, or a special parameter of a given Effect. Unfortunately you can't choose which parameter, so Filters are often only Freq, while other options would be nice, too. But that's a feature the B3 is lacking.

The shipping happened fast, as usual, and it came in a little box along with a cable to connect it to my B3. The Pedal itself is made of metal (I often got told it was made of plastic, I got a Metal one), and reacts fast to my movements, doesn't seem to loosen up or causes any nasty noises. Slipping won't be any problem, as it has a rubber sole to stand on.

I use this with the following zoom pedals: G7.1, B2, B9.1ut, 506 and G1on. As you can tell, I'm a zoom fan! I've previously owned the original FP02 and it wasn't anywhere near this newer version in terms of build, smooth function and form factor.
It's compact shape lends itself well to smaller spaces, the treadle is smooth and consistent in operation and there's no sudden peaks or drop offs. All in all it works exactly how it should!
I've not tried the pedal with any non zoom equipment,msg can't comment on compatibility. But I can state if you are moving from the other version of this pedal it's a massive improvement. The build quality alone is MUCH improved over ther slightly bendy plastic of its predecessor.