When it comes to guitar pedals, few bands have had as much impact as the Smashing Pumpkins. Billy Corgan’s distinctive sound has been shaped by a wide range of pedals over the years, from fuzz and distortion to modulation and delay. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the most iconic Smashing Pumpkins guitar pedals and explore how they’ve been used to create some of the band’s most memorable songs.
Editor’s Note:This guide is intended to provide an overview of some of the most iconic Smashing Pumpkins guitar pedals. It is not meant to be a comprehensive list of every pedal Corgan has ever used.
We’ve spent countless hours analyzing Corgan’s rig and listening to his music, and we’ve put together this guide to help you get the most out of your own guitar pedals. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, we hope you find this information helpful.
Key Differences:
| Pedal | Type | Sound | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi | Fuzz | Thick, creamy distortion | $100 |
| Pro Co Rat | Distortion | Mid-rangey, crunchy distortion | $150 |
| Boss CE-2 Chorus | Chorus | Shimmering, watery chorus | $120 |
| Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer | Overdrive | Warm, smooth overdrive | $100 |
| MXR Phase 90 | Phaser | Swirling, psychedelic phase | $100 |
Main Article Topics:
- The Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi
- The Pro Co Rat
- The Boss CE-2 Chorus
- The Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer
- The MXR Phase 90
1. Distortion
Distortion is a key element of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. They use it to create a thick, heavy wall of sound that is both powerful and atmospheric. Some of their favorite distortion pedals include the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi and the Pro Co Rat.
- The Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi is a classic fuzz pedal that has been used by countless guitarists over the years. It is known for its thick, creamy distortion sound.
- Example: The Big Muff Pi can be heard on the Smashing Pumpkins’ song “Cherub Rock.”
- Implication: The Big Muff Pi’s thick, creamy distortion sound is perfect for creating the Smashing Pumpkins’ signature wall of sound.
- The Pro Co Rat is another classic distortion pedal that is known for its mid-rangey, crunchy sound.
- Example: The Rat can be heard on the Smashing Pumpkins’ song “Siamese Dream.”
- Implication: The Rat’s mid-rangey, crunchy sound is perfect for cutting through the mix and creating a powerful, aggressive sound.
Distortion is an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. By understanding how they use distortion, you can get closer to achieving their iconic sound.
2. Chorus
Chorus is another essential element of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. They use it to create a shimmering, ethereal atmosphere that is both beautiful and haunting. Some of their favorite chorus pedals include the Boss CE-2 Chorus and the Electro-Harmonix Small Clone.
- Versatility: Chorus is a versatile effect that can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle shimmer to swirling psychedelic effects. The Smashing Pumpkins use chorus to create a variety of different atmospheres on their songs, from the dreamy intro to “Cherub Rock” to the swirling vortex of “Disarm.”
- Depth and Space: Chorus can add depth and space to a guitar sound. The Smashing Pumpkins use chorus to create a sense of space and atmosphere on their songs. This can be heard on songs like “Siamese Dream” and “Mayonaise,” where the chorus pedal helps to create a lush, dreamy soundscape.
- Texture and Movement: Chorus can add texture and movement to a guitar sound. The Smashing Pumpkins use chorus to create a sense of movement and flow on their songs. This can be heard on songs like “Zero” and “Bullet with Butterfly Wings,” where the chorus pedal helps to create a sense of momentum and drive.
Chorus is an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. By understanding how they use chorus, you can get closer to achieving their iconic sound.
3. Overdrive
Overdrive is an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. They use it to add warmth, grit, and sustain to their guitars, which helps to create their signature wall of sound. The Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer is one of their favorite overdrive pedals, and it can be heard on many of their most iconic songs, including “Cherub Rock,” “Disarm,” and “1979.”
- Facet 1: Warmth
Overdrive adds warmth to a guitar sound by boosting the low-end frequencies. This can help to create a fuller, richer sound, which is perfect for adding depth and body to rhythm guitar parts. The Smashing Pumpkins often use overdrive to add warmth to their rhythm guitars, which helps to create their signature wall of sound.
- Facet 2: Grit
Overdrive also adds grit to a guitar sound by boosting the high-end frequencies. This can help to create a more aggressive, edgy sound, which is perfect for lead guitar parts. The Smashing Pumpkins often use overdrive to add grit to their lead guitars, which helps to create their signature soaring solos.
- Facet 3: Sustain
Overdrive can also add sustain to a guitar sound by increasing the amount of time that the notes ring out. This can help to create a more powerful, sustained sound, which is perfect for creating long, soaring guitar solos. The Smashing Pumpkins often use overdrive to add sustain to their guitar solos, which helps to create their signature epic sound.
- Facet 4: Versatility
Overdrive is a versatile effect that can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle warmth to heavy distortion. The Smashing Pumpkins use overdrive to create a variety of different sounds on their songs, from the warm, gritty rhythm guitars on “Cherub Rock” to the soaring, sustained lead guitars on “1979.”
Overdrive is an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. By understanding how they use overdrive, you can get closer to achieving their iconic sound.
4. Phaser
Phaser is an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. They use it to create a swirling, psychedelic effect that is both beautiful and haunting. The MXR Phase 90 is one of their favorite phaser pedals, and it can be heard on many of their most iconic songs, including “Cherub Rock,” “Siamese Dream,” and “1979.”
- Facet 1: Creating a swirling, psychedelic effect
Phaser is a unique effect that can create a swirling, psychedelic sound. The Smashing Pumpkins use phaser to create a variety of different effects on their songs, from the subtle, shimmering effect on “Cherub Rock” to the more pronounced, swirling effect on “Siamese Dream.”
- Facet 2: Adding depth and texture
Phaser can also add depth and texture to a guitar sound. The Smashing Pumpkins use phaser to create a sense of depth and space on their songs. This can be heard on songs like “Mayonaise” and “Zero,” where the phaser pedal helps to create a lush, dreamy soundscape.
- Facet 3: Creating movement and flow
Phaser can also create a sense of movement and flow on a guitar sound. The Smashing Pumpkins use phaser to create a sense of momentum and drive on their songs. This can be heard on songs like “Bullet with Butterfly Wings” and “1979,” where the phaser pedal helps to create a sense of urgency and excitement.
- Facet 4: Versatility
Phaser is a versatile effect that can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle shimmer to pronounced swirl. The Smashing Pumpkins use phaser to create a variety of different sounds on their songs, from the subtle, shimmering effect on “Cherub Rock” to the more pronounced, swirling effect on “Siamese Dream.”
Phaser is an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. By understanding how they use phaser, you can get closer to achieving their iconic sound.
5. Delay
Delay is an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. They use it to create a sense of depth and space, which helps to create their signature dreamy, ethereal sound. The Boss DD-3 Digital Delay is one of their favorite delay pedals, and it can be heard on many of their most iconic songs, including “Cherub Rock,” “Siamese Dream,” and “1979.”
Delay works by creating a series of echoes of the original guitar signal. These echoes can be used to create a variety of different effects, from a subtle reverb-like effect to a long, drawn-out delay. The Smashing Pumpkins often use delay to create a sense of space and atmosphere on their songs. This can be heard on songs like “Mayonaise” and “Zero,” where the delay pedal helps to create a lush, dreamy soundscape.
Delay can also be used to create a sense of movement and flow on a guitar sound. The Smashing Pumpkins often use delay to create a sense of momentum and drive on their songs. This can be heard on songs like “Bullet with Butterfly Wings” and “1979,” where the delay pedal helps to create a sense of urgency and excitement.
Delay is a versatile effect that can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle shimmer to pronounced swirl. The Smashing Pumpkins use delay to create a variety of different sounds on their songs, from the subtle, shimmering effect on “Cherub Rock” to the more pronounced, swirling effect on “Siamese Dream.”
Overall, delay is an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. By understanding how they use delay, you can get closer to achieving their iconic sound.
Key Insights:
- Delay is used by the Smashing Pumpkins to create a sense of depth and space.
- Delay can be used to create a variety of different effects, from a subtle reverb-like effect to a long, drawn-out delay.
- Delay can also be used to create a sense of movement and flow on a guitar sound.
- Delay is a versatile effect that can be used to create a wide range of sounds.
Practical Significance:
- Understanding how the Smashing Pumpkins use delay can help you to achieve their iconic sound.
- Delay can be used to create a variety of different effects on guitar, from subtle shimmer to pronounced swirl.
- Delay is a versatile effect that can be used in a variety of musical genres.
6. Reverb
Reverb is an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. They use it to create a sense of ambience and space, which helps to create their signature dreamy, ethereal sound. The Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail Reverb is one of their favorite reverb pedals, and it can be heard on many of their most iconic songs, including “Cherub Rock,” “Siamese Dream,” and “1979.”
- Facet 1: Creating a sense of ambience and space
Reverb is a unique effect that can create a sense of ambience and space. The Smashing Pumpkins use reverb to create a variety of different effects on their songs, from a subtle, shimmering effect to a long, drawn-out reverb. This can be heard on songs like “Mayonaise” and “Zero,” where the reverb pedal helps to create a lush, dreamy soundscape.
- Facet 2: Adding depth and texture
Reverb can also add depth and texture to a guitar sound. The Smashing Pumpkins use reverb to create a sense of depth and space on their songs. This can be heard on songs like “Siamese Dream” and “1979,” where the reverb pedal helps to create a lush, dreamy soundscape.
- Facet 3: Creating movement and flow
Reverb can also create a sense of movement and flow on a guitar sound. The Smashing Pumpkins use reverb to create a sense of momentum and drive on their songs. This can be heard on songs like “Bullet with Butterfly Wings” and “1979,” where the reverb pedal helps to create a sense of urgency and excitement.
- Facet 4: Versatility
Reverb is a versatile effect that can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle shimmer to pronounced swirl. The Smashing Pumpkins use reverb to create a variety of different sounds on their songs, from the subtle, shimmering effect on “Cherub Rock” to the more pronounced, swirling effect on “Siamese Dream.”
Overall, reverb is an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. By understanding how they use reverb, you can get closer to achieving their iconic sound.
7. Volume
Volume pedals are an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. They use them to control the overall volume of their sound, which helps to create their signature dynamic and powerful sound. The Ernie Ball Volume Pedal is one of their favorite volume pedals, and it can be heard on many of their most iconic songs, including “Cherub Rock,” “Siamese Dream,” and “1979.”
Volume pedals work by allowing the guitarist to control the volume of their guitar signal with their foot. This can be used to create a variety of different effects, from subtle swells to dramatic volume drops. The Smashing Pumpkins often use volume pedals to create a sense of dynamics and contrast in their songs. For example, they might use a volume pedal to swell the volume of a guitar solo, or to create a dramatic drop in volume before a chorus.
Volume pedals can also be used to create a variety of different sounds. For example, th
e Smashing Pumpkins sometimes use a volume pedal to create a “wah-wah” effect. They can also use a volume pedal to create a “tremolo” effect, which is a pulsating effect that can add depth and movement to a guitar sound.
Overall, volume pedals are an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. By understanding how they use volume pedals, you can get closer to achieving their iconic sound.
Key Insights:
- Volume pedals are used by the Smashing Pumpkins to control the overall volume of their sound.
- Volume pedals can be used to create a variety of different effects, from subtle swells to dramatic volume drops.
- Volume pedals can also be used to create a variety of different sounds, such as “wah-wah” and “tremolo” effects.
Practical Significance:
- Understanding how the Smashing Pumpkins use volume pedals can help you to achieve their iconic sound.
- Volume pedals can be used to create a variety of different effects on guitar, from subtle swells to dramatic volume drops.
- Volume pedals are a versatile effect that can be used in a variety of musical genres.
8. Wah
Wah pedals are an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. They use them to create a variety of different sounds, from funky to psychedelic, which helps to create their signature dynamic and powerful sound. The Dunlop Cry Baby Wah is one of their favorite wah pedals, and it can be heard on many of their most iconic songs, including “Cherub Rock,” “Siamese Dream,” and “1979.”
- Facet 1: Creating a variety of different sounds
Wah pedals can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle, funky accents to pronounced, psychedelic effects. The Smashing Pumpkins use wah pedals to create a variety of different sounds on their songs, from the subtle, funky wah on “Cherub Rock” to the more pronounced, psychedelic wah on “Siamese Dream.”
- Facet 2: Adding depth and texture
Wah pedals can also add depth and texture to a guitar sound. The Smashing Pumpkins use wah pedals to create a sense of depth and space on their songs. This can be heard on songs like “Mayonaise” and “Zero,” where the wah pedal helps to create a lush, dreamy soundscape.
- Facet 3: Creating movement and flow
Wah pedals can also create a sense of movement and flow on a guitar sound. The Smashing Pumpkins use wah pedals to create a sense of momentum and drive on their songs. This can be heard on songs like “Bullet with Butterfly Wings” and “1979,” where the wah pedal helps to create a sense of urgency and excitement.
- Facet 4: Versatility
Wah pedals are a versatile effect that can be used to create a wide range of sounds. The Smashing Pumpkins use wah pedals to create a variety of different sounds on their songs, from the subtle, funky wah on “Cherub Rock” to the more pronounced, psychedelic wah on “Siamese Dream.”
Overall, wah pedals are an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound. By understanding how they use wah pedals, you can get closer to achieving their iconic sound.
9. Tuner
Tuners are an essential part of any guitarist’s toolkit, and the Smashing Pumpkins are no exception. They use tuners to keep their guitars in tune, which is essential for creating their signature sound. The Boss TU-2 Chromatic Tuner is one of their favorite tuners, and it can be seen on their pedalboards in many live and studio photos.
- Accuracy and reliability: The Boss TU-2 Chromatic Tuner is known for its accuracy and reliability. This is important for the Smashing Pumpkins, who often use complex and unusual tunings. The TU-2 can quickly and easily tune their guitars to any desired tuning, which helps them to stay in tune during live performances and recording sessions.
- Durability: The Boss TU-2 Chromatic Tuner is also known for its durability. This is important for the Smashing Pumpkins, who tour extensively and often play in harsh conditions. The TU-2 can withstand the rigors of the road and continue to perform reliably night after night.
- Affordability: The Boss TU-2 Chromatic Tuner is an affordable option, which makes it a good choice for guitarists of all levels. The Smashing Pumpkins are known for their use of expensive and high-end gear, but they have always been willing to use affordable options when they are available. The TU-2 is a great example of this, and it is a testament to its quality that the Smashing Pumpkins have used it for so many years.
Overall, the Boss TU-2 Chromatic Tuner is an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ guitar rig. It is accurate, reliable, durable, and affordable, which makes it a great choice for any guitarist.
10. Power supply
A power supply is an essential part of any guitar pedalboard, and the Smashing Pumpkins are no exception. They use power supplies to provide a consistent and reliable source of power to their pedals, which is essential for creating their signature sound. The Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus is one of their favorite power supplies, and it can be seen on their pedalboards in many live and studio photos.
- Facet 1: Providing a consistent and reliable source of power
A power supply provides a consistent and reliable source of power to guitar pedals, which is essential for creating a good sound. The Smashing Pumpkins use the Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus because it is known for its high quality and reliability. It can provide a consistent voltage to all of their pedals, even when they are using multiple pedals at the same time.
- Facet 2: Isolating pedals from each other
A power supply can also isolate pedals from each other, which can help to reduce noise and interference. The Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus has isolated outputs, which means that each pedal is getting its own dedicated power source. This helps to reduce the chance of noise and interference, which can be a problem when using multiple pedals together.
- Facet 3: Protecting pedals from damage
A power supply can also protect pedals from damage. The Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus has surge protection, which means that it can protect pedals from damage caused by power surges. This is important for the Smashing Pumpkins, who often play in live settings where power surges can be a problem.
- Facet 4: daisy-chaining capability
The Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus has daisy-chaining capability, which means that multiple pedals can be connected to a single power supply. This can save space on a pedalboard and make it easier to power multiple pedals at the same time. The Smashing Pumpkins often use daisy-chaining to power their pedals, which helps them to keep their pedalboard organized and tidy.
Overall, a power supply is an essential part of any guitar pedalboard, and the Smashing Pumpkins are no exception. They use power supplies to provide a consistent and reliable source of power to their pedals, which is essential for creating their signature sound. The Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 2 Plus is one of their favorite power supplies because it is
known for its high quality, reliability, and features.
11. Patch cables
Patch cables are a vital part of any guitar pedalboard, and the Smashing Pumpkins are no exception. They use patch cables to connect their pedals together, which allows them to create a custom signal chain and achieve their signature sound. George L’s Patch Cables are one of their favorite brands of patch cables because they are known for their high quality and durability.
- Facet 1: Signal integrity
Patch cables play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the guitar signal. They must be able to transmit the signal without introducing any noise or interference. George L’s Patch Cables are known for their excellent signal quality, which is why they are a favorite of the Smashing Pumpkins.
- Facet 2: Durability
Patch cables are subjected to a lot of wear and tear on the road. They are constantly being plugged in and unplugged, and they can be easily damaged if they are not made well. George L’s Patch Cables are built to withstand the rigors of touring, which is why they are a favorite of the Smashing Pumpkins.
- Facet 3: Flexibility
Patch cables need to be flexible enough to be routed around a pedalboard without causing any problems. George L’s Patch Cables are very flexible, which makes them easy to use and route.
- Facet 4: Variety
George L’s Patch Cables come in a variety of lengths and colors, which makes it easy to find the right cables for any pedalboard. The Smashing Pumpkins use a variety of different patch cables to connect their pedals, and they appreciate the wide selection that George L’s offers.
Overall, patch cables are an essential part of the Smashing Pumpkins’ guitar rig. They use patch cables to connect their pedals together, which allows them to create a custom signal chain and achieve their signature sound. George L’s Patch Cables are one of their favorite brands of patch cables because they are known for their high quality, durability, flexibility, and variety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smashing Pumpkins Guitar Pedals
This section addresses some of the most frequently asked questions about Smashing Pumpkins guitar pedals, providing concise and informative answers to help you better understand their gear and sound.
Question 1: What are the essential guitar pedals used by the Smashing Pumpkins?
The Smashing Pumpkins’ signature sound is achieved through a combination of essential guitar pedals, including the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi for distortion, the Boss CE-2 Chorus for modulation, the Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer for overdrive, the MXR Phase 90 for phasing, and the Boss DD-3 Digital Delay for delay.
Question 2: How do the Smashing Pumpkins use distortion pedals?
Distortion pedals are heavily relied upon by the Smashing Pumpkins to create their characteristic thick and heavy wall of sound. They use pedals like the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi and the Pro Co Rat to add warmth, grit, and sustain to their guitar tones.
Question 3: What is the role of chorus pedals in the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound?
Chorus pedals are used by the Smashing Pumpkins to create a shimmering, ethereal atmosphere in their music. Pedals like the Boss CE-2 Chorus add depth and space to their guitar tones, contributing to their dreamy and psychedelic sound.
Question 4: How do the Smashing Pumpkins incorporate overdrive pedals into their rig?
Overdrive pedals are used by the Smashing Pumpkins to add warmth and grit to their guitar tones. Pedals like the Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer help them achieve a more aggressive, edgy sound, which is particularly noticeable in their lead guitar parts.
Question 5: What is the significance of phaser pedals in the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound?
Phaser pedals are used by the Smashing Pumpkins to create a swirling, psychedelic effect in their music. Pedals like the MXR Phase 90 add a sense of movement and flow to their guitar tones, contributing to their unique and captivating sound.
Question 6: How do the Smashing Pumpkins utilize delay pedals in their rig?
Delay pedals are used by the Smashing Pumpkins to add depth and space to their guitar tones. Pedals like the Boss DD-3 Digital Delay help them create a sense of ambience and atmosphere, which is particularly evident in their dreamy and ethereal songs.
Summary: Understanding the essential guitar pedals used by the Smashing Pumpkins and their techniques for incorporating them into their rig is crucial for aspiring guitarists seeking to emulate their iconic sound. By studying their gear and experimenting with different combinations of pedals, you can unlock the secrets behind their distinctive and influential guitar tones.
Transition: To further explore the intricacies of the Smashing Pumpkins’ guitar sound, let’s delve into a detailed examination of their pedalboards and signal chain in the next section.
Tips for Using Smashing Pumpkins Guitar Pedals
Incorporating the iconic guitar pedals used by the Smashing Pumpkins into your own rig can enhance your sound and bring you closer to achieving their distinctive tone. Here are some tips to guide you:
Tip 1: Experiment with Different Combinations
The Smashing Pumpkins’ guitar sound is a result of their meticulous experimentation with various pedal combinations. Don’t hesitate to try out different arrangements of pedals to discover what works best for your style and setup.
Tip 2: Pay Attention to Pedal Order
The order in which you arrange your pedals can significantly impact your sound. Experiment with different placements to find the optimal signal chain that complements your guitar and amp.
Tip 3: Use Distortion Wisely
While distortion pedals are essential for the Smashing Pumpkins’ sound, use them judiciously to avoid overpowering your tone. Experiment with different levels of gain and EQ settings to achieve a balanced and dynamic sound.
Tip 4: Embrace Modulation Effects
Modulation pedals, such as chorus and phaser, add depth and movement to the Smashing Pumpkins’ guitar sound. Incorporate these effects into your rig to create a more expansive and atmospheric soundscape.
Tip 5: Don’t Overdo Delay
Delay pedals can enhance your sound, but excessive use can lead to a muddy and cluttered mix. Experiment with different delay times and feedback settings to find a balance that complements your playing style.
Tip 6: Consider a Power Supply
Using a dedicated power supply for your pedals ensures a consistent and reliable power source, minimizing the risk of noise or interference in your signal chain.
Summary: By following these tips, you can effectively integrate Smashing Pumpkins-inspired guitar pedals into your rig and take your sound to the next level. Remember, experimentation and patience are key to finding the perfect combination that suits your musical aspirations.
Transition: Ready to dive deeper into the world of Smashing Pumpkins guitar pedals? Explore the following sections for a comprehensive analysis of their pedalboards and signal chain techniques.
Conclusion
This exploration of Smashing Pumpkins guitar pedals has unveiled the intricate tapestry of effects that shape their i
conic sound. From the raw power of distortion to the ethereal shimmer of modulation, each pedal plays a vital role in creating their distinctive and influential guitar tones.
The Smashing Pumpkins’ pedalboards and signal chain techniques serve as a testament to their innovative and experimental approach to guitar playing. By embracing a diverse array of pedals and experimenting with their arrangements, they have crafted a sound that continues to inspire and captivate listeners worldwide.
Whether you’re an aspiring guitarist seeking to emulate their iconic sound or a seasoned musician looking to expand your sonic palette, understanding the Smashing Pumpkins’ approach to guitar pedals is an invaluable step towards unlocking new musical possibilities.
