Multi Effects or Old School!

Is it a case of the pedal board two step risking falling on your back side just about when your face melting solo about to blow the crowd away.....or a pre programmed multi effects pedal to take away the stress!

However there are a number of ways of looking at this. With individual pedals you can select individual favorites and mix them on your board, with a multi effects unit you are stuck with the preset and its parameters! OK you have effects loops in some units, I'm sure some are good but everyone I've tried colours the tone of your looped effect! There are many high quality multi effects such as TC, Carl Martin and Trimode but is it a compromise?

Look at it another way, when you are playing in a band how much of what you recognize as the tone you want in fact hear cuts through to your audience........and more importantly do they notice! We've all listened to bands and thought that sounds good and had a look at the guitarist rig and thought Oh dear why's he using that crap!!! and the opposite. OK I'm playing devils advocate but maybe we get a bit carried away sometimes? 

I talked to singers who say guitarist play them a riff and change the settings a few times and say which is better? Many say, yeah OK……..but they all sound the same to me! 

So maybe what you are comfortable with and within a reasonably wide range of acceptance is they way to go. Multi or single I guess is personal preference. I use single but in two banks with a loop pedal wah with tuner, OD and Distortion on one side and OD, Distortion, Fuzz, delay and Phaser on the other. Allows me to play the wah on OD then switch loops to play Distortion only hitting one switch…..A quick re-set is required after that song, but that’s the compromise!

My problem is when I play a board set up one day the next time I play it other pedals I think others sound better…..my current either or is a TC Distortion or a modified RAT!!!.....well that’s my problem!

BIG KNOB the new pedal pusher in town

If like me you like to mess around with the odd guitar effects or two you may have noticed a new supplier!

They came to my attention on Ebay as a maker of clones! They are basically high quality hand wired replicas of iconic stomp boxes.....with a few twists along the way! The company BIG KNOB you can find them at http://www.bigknobpedals.com/

I succumbed to the TUBE 808 a clone of the best version of the Ibanez TS808 using the same JRC4558D opamp chip with a true bypass switch as they all do so as not to colour the signal when it's turned off. This is a great pedal that goes from a full clean boost to a creamy overdrive yet still has transparency, dynamics, tone and low noise.  The first one I bought which I notice isn't on the web site at present is the Fullclone, this is a Fulltone OCD clone. This again excels particularly between third to full gain. It's full with rich harmonics without harshness and maintain low noise and transparency. 

Some of the others including the RATPAK, which unashamedly is a Proco RAT clone is on my list! It's an exacting replica of a vintage 1985 'Whiteface' Rat distortion. This LM308-based classic is still massively popular and is the specific one most enthusiasts will point to as representing the very best this legendary line of distortions had to offer. The only addition to the original 1985 circuit was the inclusion of a switch which allows you to switch over to the newer turbo-type sound. Noted users of this vintage pedal have included Jeff Beck, Joe Walsh, Joe Perry, Thom Yorke, Dave Grohl and Thurston Moore. 

There are Big Muff and other type fuzz pedals and more, check them out you will not be disappointed....I understand if you have a pedal you would like them to make they will endeavor to do so.....what ever it's worth contacting them....tell them where you heard about Big Knob!

Fuzz Box or Oct Out!

What are Fuzz and Octave Effect Pedals for Guitar

Entertainment,Music,Consumer


Fuzz and octave guitar effects pedals are a unique way in which several well known musicians have achieved sound from different stages in musical history. In an effort to come up with a totally unique sound, technology has put together devices that are clear and distinct. When these units are applied to modern day music it gives an interesting sound spin that is ruminant to the mid to late seventies.

Modern technology has made the use of a revered piece of equipment such as this clear and distinct. Sounds of today are easily mixed with the unique feel of the sixties and the seventies.

The audio source is always affected by the effects pedals. This electric source is directly responsible for the sounds of the electric instrument. It can be used with the electric keyboard, the electric guitar, and and keyboards. Each one of these instruments is enhanced to great heights.

The sound that this unit can produce may not be for every one very few things are. It is usually more appreciated by the musically advanced. There is a greater quality of sound from an octave up than you may find coming from any other pedal. Guitar players from around the globe of all levels have learned to respect the advancement this technology has offered the industry.

The fuzz directly affects the transition. A poor quality product can easily distort sounds. It can be used during live concerts or in a recording studio. When it is used in a live concert it should be plugged into the path of the electric signal. During a post production situation the auxiliary output is patched into the effects petal. The effect is responsible for dramatic sounds as well as subtle musical listening.


Subtle music as well as dramatic musical listening can be contributed to the device.This device gives a seasoned musician the ability to take their sound to a whole new and unexplored level. Many of them have a remarkable amount of respect for the reigns of dramatic sounds caused by a unit that will also relax and distress a listener with clear subtle sounds. Ultimately there is no substitute for good quality.

Locate that octave pedal to help make your music sound better. Or choose one of many fuzz pedal choices you have online. Go online today and find more.



Related Articles - consumer electronics, fuzz pedals, octave pedals, guitar effects pedals for guitar

Know your guitar's amplifier before you buy a new one

Your electric guitar was made to put out a vibrant, clear sound. Buying the right amplifier will assure a high level of sound, play and enjoyment. To make sure you get the best amplifier for your style of play and for your guitar, you will need to do some homework and most likely some legwork. The purchase of the right amplifier is a long-term solution so let's get it right the first time.

Let's start at the beginning. You need to determine your requirements. Usually the determining factors in buying an amplifier are budget, style and audience. If you will be playing for fun in your basement or garage, your requirements are less demanding than a guitarist who intends to play for big audiences. Checking with internet providers before visiting the local stores will help establish a reasonable budget. Today, there is no reason to spend more than your budget permits.

The Internet is the best and perfect medium to get information about amplifier before buying your guitar amplifier. Internet providers offer advice, chat rooms, forums and deep discounts. Before you finalize any purchase, you should always cross-check with online providers. Be sure to check manufacturer's warranties and glean any information you can so that when you visit those local stores you have product knowledge.

Tube amplifiers and solid state amplifiers are the two staples of the industry. You will select one of these types. Tube amplifiers became popular in the mid 20th century. They present accurate tone and are very reliable. The tube will need to be changed after a period of time and tubes are not inexpensive. Tube amplifiers also require regular maintenance.

The newer solid state amplifiers are basically maintenance free. The sound is sharp and they have great range. Best of all, there are no tubes to replace.

Tube amplifiers have the classic look. The tones are genuine and experienced guitarists feel they put out a bit more warmth. Tube amplifiers are more expensive than their counterparts which has increased the demand for solid state units.

Tube amplifiers are heavier and require more careful handling. While the sound generated by the tube is truer, it is often not as vibrant as the sound of the lighter solid state amp. Generally, experienced players prefer the tube amp while beginners migrate to the solid state.

Most beginning packages today are combination packages. Speakers, power amplifier and preamp are the mechanisms of guitar amplifier. These all-in-one packages are terrific for stay-at-home guitarists. They are easy to connect and easy to use. The speakers range from 8 inch to 12 inch sizes. Even if you take your act on the road and play before smaller audiences, these combo packs can get the job done.

When shopping for your first amplifier, ask as many questions as it takes to get comfortable. There is no need to rush. Remember that there are very competitive providers on the internet. Make sure to see, touch and hear the various systems at your local stores and then check the online opportunities. Wherever you end up, always consider the combination packs. These are great fits for most beginners.

The Best Of Guitar Effect Accessories

One of the important add ons to guitar are guitar effect accessories. They enhance the sound of guitar and allow the player to come up with different kinds of tones and sounds.

There are a whole lot of guitar effect accessories available today.

- Guitar to U.S.B interface: This particular accessory is very effective for practicing. It is a cable that can be adjoined with the U.S.B port of your personal computer. And after that you can jam as long as you want. You do not need any other accessory. All you need is your guitar, a computer or laptop and this U.S.B interface.

- Footswitch: It is a gazette that helps you to control the selection of loops. It also gives a hands free comfort to change the modes. It has got an option by which you can start and stop it automatically, if you want. It also provides you the system to record automatically.

- Foot pedal: This is a small processor kind of thing that provides you different facilities and effects. It has got a record option. It also contains some other facilities like, multiply, insert, mute, undo etc.

- Remote control pedal: This is a more advanced version of conventional pedals. They have some unique facilities, which will make the playing comfortable and enjoyable. This gazette has one pedal through which, the major functions of two amplifier foot switches can be fulfilled.

- Mini amp and distortion: This is the latest two in one version of guitar effect accessories. This is a mini amplifier. There is a very powerful inbuilt speaker in the pedal. After the amplifier is attached, it becomes a very strong distortion box.

- Mini auto guitar tuner pedal: This is a very short box. It fits easily in the pedal board. It instantly tunes the guitar with total accuracy. A digital needle indicates the state of the tune.

- Slap echo pedal: This pedal delivers the echo tone. Especially the shower room tone that was very popular in the 1950s.

- Flanger pedal: Another effect accessory that gives a flange effect.

- Acoustic guitar amp modeling effects pedal: Do you want an acoustic tone from an electric guitar? Don't have to think a lot or invent a new machine. This gazette will do that for you. You just need to plug in. And it will give clear tone of acoustic guitar.

- Digital stereo reverb guitar effects pedal: This is for reverb effects.

The above accessories are all for electric guitars. But there are other guitar effect accessories also, which are made for bass guitars.

- Bass guitar multi FX: It has got a good amplifier and many brilliant effects.

- Bass multi effects pedal: It is a bit advanced from the previous one. It contains drum machine, recording software, along with many effects.

These are the guitar effect accessories, which are available mainly for electric & bass guitars. There are lots of other accessories being invented everyday, especially for electric guitars. These accessories are making guitar playing a more enjoyable experience.

Guitar Effects - Pedal Or Multi-Pedal Effects Board?

I can remember even having this argument with my brother. I always said that I would much rather buy a single effect pedal over a multi pedal effect board any day, and our debating went round and round. So what are the perks of each one and which route is right for the every day guitarist consumer?

A single effect pedal has its rewards in the fact that they are typically of high quality, can be modeled after a famous guitar players set up, and have an exclusive sound, effect, or tone. The bad thing about them is the mullah. Single effect pedals can cost a fortune. The other bad part, and this is very common, is that people often grow instantly tired of their new effect pedal, and never use it again. Swooosh! two hundred dollars of fine craftsmanship out the window.

Multi pedal effect boards have their pros and cons too. The good parts about them is that they can be very cheap, sometimes less than a hundred dollars, and that these multi effect pedals can sport a large array of sounds. The bad news is that a lot of these sounds are just garbage and useless as some of them are over the top. The good news once again is that multi pedal effect technology has improved, or at least been taken more seriously, and now most of the effects sound pretty awesome.

Another good thing about the multi effects is that you can have plenty to work with to mix and match and create your own tone. These boards are also good for freeing up space, and are excellent for cable management.

I look at effect pedals as candy bars. They all have distinct packaging, and if you've never tried a certain candy bar before, then you're going to be curious about it. Pedals unfortunately are designed to visually make your mouth water, and not necessarily perform. So if your curiosity is driving you to make that choice, why not do it with a multi effect pedal board? This way, you can be guaranteed that you will walk away with at least twenty or so effects that you do like, and you may discover great combinations in the future.

What I really like about the multi boards is that it feels good and empowering, by arming you with the effects resources of a small studio, so in the long run your cup is quite full.
No effect can work without your willingness to master guitar playing. Learning guitar and having a good sound are a must, and it starts with the choice to learn and master guitar in every possible way.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Sibbs

Choosing Your First Tube Amplifier

For decades, it's been a general opinion that tube (or valve) amplifiers sound better than solid state amps.

First of all - what is a tube amp? A tube amp is a type of guitar amplifier that operates on valves (or vacuum tubes) instead of transistors. The sound you get from a tube amp is warmer and fuller that what you'd get from a solid state amp.

Valve amplifiers range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, so the choice is really confusing! If you're reading this article, you've probably decided that it's time that you want to crank your volume past the 10 mark on your current practice amp or the tone just isn't satisfying you anymore.

There are a few things you have to know in order to make your decision. First of all, the type of music that you play, so that you can decide on the amount of gain that your amp needs to have. What is gain? Gain is basically a synonym for distortion. If you play mostly "clean" music (virtually, no amount of distortion), you won't need a lot of gain. If the music you play is blues or rock, you'll need a mild amount of gain, depending on how distorted you want the sound to be. If you play metal, you'll need a high-gain tube amp.

The most notable clean amp of all tube amp history is the Fender Bassman, the holy-grail of clean sounds. Generally, you'll want to look at Fender and Vox. Most tube amps have the amount of gain necessary for blues or rock (Marshalls, the expensive Buddas, the budget Blackhearts). Finally, if we're talking metal, you're going to want to look at Peavey, Mesa Boogie, ENGL.

The second aspect of a tube amp, why many people crave them, is the dynamic. Dynamic is the ability of the tube amp to sound clean when you're hitting the strings softly, and distorted when you're hitting them hard. This allows a great amount of expression. You're going to have to listen to an amp to see if it has this quality.

You'll also have to listen for definition, which is the ability to amplify every single note your play clearly. This is very important, otherwise you'll sound all muddy. The best way to test this is to play some chords, even fewer amps possess this quality.

Lastly, you'll just have to listen if it possesses the basic tonal characteristics that fit you. If the basic sound of the amp is bad, it will sound bad anyway you will adjust the equalizer, amount of gain, anything. It's not uncommon that you find bad tube amps made by prestigious brands. There's no such thing as "not knowing" if it sounds good or not, and although store employees can help you with various information such as amounts of gain, number of tubes, etc. they always want to convince you to buy the products you're trying. If you don't buy it, you can always come back another time and try it again, but if you do, you'll just lack motivation and it will harm your playing. This is important because tube amps aren't as cheap as a practice amp. Always try before you buy!
My name is Andrei Popa, and I've been playing electric guitar for 6 years now. I've bought and sold a lot of gear over the years, filtered all the guitar playing information I've received and have generally been through a lot of trial and error. I maintain a gear reviews website at http://guitar-gear-demos.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrei_Popa