Single Effects

Chorus Flange Tremolo

Compression

Delay Reverb

Distortion Overdrive

Loopers Samplers

Signal Path Pedal Tuners

Volume Expression

Wah Filter

Reviews in that Category

Single effects, in the context of electric guitar effects, refer to individual stompbox-style devices or pedals that are used to modify and shape the sound of an electric guitar. These effects can be categorized into various types, each with its unique impact on the guitar's tone. Here is some information about single effects:

  1. Types of Single Effects: Single effects pedals come in various types, including:

    • Distortion and Overdrive: These pedals add grit and saturation to the guitar's signal, creating a range of tones from mild overdrive to heavy distortion.
    • Delay: Delay pedals produce echoes of the guitar's sound, allowing for a spacious and atmospheric quality to the music.
    • Reverb: Reverb pedals simulate the sound of the guitar being played in different acoustic spaces, adding depth and ambiance to the tone.
    • Modulation: Modulation effects include chorus, phaser, and flanger pedals that alter the guitar's sound by modulating the pitch or time of the signal.
    • Wah-Wah: Wah pedals create a vocal-like "wah" sound by altering the guitar's frequency response when the pedal is rocked back and forth.
    • Tremolo: Tremolo pedals produce a rhythmic, pulsating effect by modulating the volume of the guitar signal.
    • Octave and Pitch Shifting: These pedals shift the pitch of the guitar's signal up or down, creating harmonies or unique sonic textures.
    • Compression: Compression pedals even out the dynamics of the guitar signal, enhancing sustain and providing a consistent volume level.

  2. Signal Chain: Guitarists often use multiple single effects pedals in a signal chain. The order in which these pedals are connected can significantly impact the final sound. Common signal chain configurations include placing distortion/overdrive before modulation and time-based effects like delay and reverb at the end.

  3. Expression Pedals: Some single effects pedals can be controlled in real-time using an expression pedal. This allows guitarists to manipulate parameters like wah-wah or pitch bend on the fly.

  4. Power Supply: Single effects pedals typically require a power source, either from batteries or an external power supply unit, to operate. Daisy chain power supplies are often used to power multiple pedals.

  5. Notable Brands: There are various manufacturers known for producing high-quality single effects pedals, including Boss, Electro-Harmonix, MXR, TC Electronic, and Strymon, among others.

  6. Sound Sculpting: Single effects pedals give guitarists the ability to sculpt their tone and experiment with a wide range of sounds, making them essential tools for achieving desired guitar tones in various music genres.

In summary, single effects pedals are integral to the world of electric guitar playing and music production. Guitarists use these pedals to shape their sound, add texture, and create unique sonic landscapes, allowing for creative expression and tonal versatility.