STACKING OVERDRIVES : ADDING DEPTH TO YOUR TONE One popular trend among guitar players including me is “ stacking overdrives ”. This technique involves using multiple overdrive pedals in series to create a richer , more complex tone . By layering different overdrive pedals with different levels of gain and tone settings , you can achieve a great sound that fits your tone needs perfectly .
When stacking overdrives , it ’ s important to pay attention to the order in which you place the pedals in your signal chain . A common approach is to place the pedal with the lower gain setting first , followed by the pedal with the higher gain setting . This allows each pedal to build upon the sound created by the previous one , resulting in a smooth and dynamic tone that retains clarity and definition . Keep in mind that the gain settings do not need to be extreme especially on the second drive / distortion pedal in the chain .
THE IMPORTANCE OF TAP TEMPO IN YOUR SETUP In the world of modern guitar effects , the ability to synchronize your time-based effects , such as delays and modulation pedals , to the tempo of your music is very important . This is where Tap Tempo comes into play . Tap Tempo allows you to manually set the tempo of your effects by tapping a button in time with the music , ensuring that your delays and modulations are perfectly in sync with the rhythm of your playing .
Having Tap Tempo in your setup can greatly enhance your performance , allowing you to create precise and rhythmic effects that complement your playing . Whether you ’ re playing live on stage or recording in the studio , Tap Tempo gives you the flexibility to adjust your effects on the fly , making it a valuable tool for any guitarist . I look like I ’ m tap dancing sometimes in concerts but at least I sound cleaner and more pro during the concert . Ha !
EMBRACING NEW TRENDS While it ’ s important to stay grounded in the basics of guitar pedal setup , it ’ s also exciting to explore new trends and innovations in the world of effects pedals . One emerging trend is the use of impulse response ( IR ) technology in multieffect units , which allows guitarists to simulate the sound of real amplifiers and cabinets with remarkable accuracy . I ’ ve adapted to this a while back and it has literally been a game changer for me .
By incorporating IR technology into your setup , you can access a wide range of tones and textures that were previously only possible with analog amps and cabs . This trend represents a whole new direction in the world of guitar effects , offering endless possibilities for sonic exploration and creativity . I personally use my signature IR ’ s and love the way they sound . I also have them for sale on my website if you ’ re interested . www . chrisrochaguitar . com
IN CONCLUSION Taking a “ back to basics ” approach to building your guitar pedal signal chain can help you create a solid foundation for your sound . By understanding the fundamentals of pedal order , exploring techniques like stacking overdrives , and embracing essential tools like Tap Tempo , you can enhance your playing experience and unlock new creative possibilities . And don ’ t forget to keep an eye on emerging trends and technologies in the world of effects pedals , as they may inspire you to push the boundaries of your sound even further .
Chris Rocha Chris Rocha is an American Christian producer , guitarist , business owner and pioneer in the Spanish Christian music industry . He is a two time Dove Award winner , has worked on two Grammy award winning records and has produced or recorded guitars on 5 Grammy nominated albums . chrisrochaguitar . com
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