For centuries, pedalboards have been a standard component of pipe organs. And since the 1930s, electromechanical organs also included pedalboards. But as electronic organs became more compact and portable, manufacturers began creating pedals that can function apart from the organ console. They afford players great portability and flexibility because pedals can now be combined with other instruments and electronic equipment.

Bass pedals serve the same use as the old pedalboards but usually produce sounds in the bass range. They are used by keyboard players as an accessory to their full-range manual keyboards as well as by musicians who play other instruments like the electric bass or electric guitar.