What is an A/B guitar pedal?
Editor’s Note: A/B guitar pedals are a must-have for any guitarist who wants to be able to quickly and easily switch between two different guitar sounds.
After doing some analysis and digging through tons of information, we put together this A/B guitar pedal guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences
| Feature | A/B Guitar Pedal |
|---|---|
| Number of channels | 2 |
| Switching method | Footswitch |
| Power supply | 9-volt battery or AC adapter |
Main Article Topics
- What is an A/B guitar pedal?
- How does an A/B guitar pedal work?
- What are the benefits of using an A/B guitar pedal?
- How to choose the right A/B guitar pedal for you
1. Two channels
The two channels on an A/B guitar pedal are one of its most important features. This is because they allow the guitarist to quickly and easily switch between two different guitar sounds. This can be very useful for a variety of purposes, such as:
- Switching between a clean and a distorted sound
- Switching between different effects pedals
- Switching between different guitars
By having two channels, the guitarist can create a wide variety of different sounds without having to constantly change their settings. This can be a major advantage in a live performance setting, where time is of the essence.
Here is a real-life example of how an A/B guitar pedal can be used:
A guitarist is playing a live show. He wants to be able to switch between a clean sound for the verses of his songs and a distorted sound for the choruses. He uses an A/B guitar pedal to do this. He assigns the clean sound to channel A and the distorted sound to channel B. When he wants to switch between the two sounds, he simply presses the footswitch on the pedal.
This is just one example of how an A/B guitar pedal can be used. These pedals are very versatile and can be used in a variety of different ways to create a wide variety of sounds.
Here is a table that summarizes the key insights about the two channels on an A/B guitar pedal:
| Key Insight | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The two channels on an A/B guitar pedal allow the guitarist to quickly and easily switch between two different guitar sounds. | This can be very useful for a variety of purposes, such as switching between a clean and a distorted sound, switching between different effects pedals, or switching between different guitars. |
| By having two channels, the guitarist can create a wide variety of different sounds without having to constantly change their settings. | This can be a major advantage in a live performance setting, where time is of the essence. |
2. Footswitch
The footswitch on an A/B guitar pedal is a crucial component that allows the guitarist to quickly and easily switch between the two channels on the pedal. This is a major advantage, especially in a live performance setting where time is of the essence.
- Ease of Use: The footswitch on an A/B guitar pedal is very easy to use. The guitarist simply needs to press the footswitch to switch between the two channels. This can be done without having to take their hands off the guitar, which is a major advantage in a live performance setting.
- Speed: The footswitch on an A/B guitar pedal is very fast. The guitarist can switch between the two channels on the pedal almost instantaneously. This is important for creating a variety of different sounds quickly and easily.
- Durability: The footswitch on an A/B guitar pedal is very durable. It is designed to withstand the rigors of live performance. This is important for guitarists who need a pedal that will last for a long time.
Overall, the footswitch on an A/B guitar pedal is a very important component. It allows the guitarist to quickly and easily switch between the two channels on the pedal, which is a major advantage in a live performance setting.
3. 9-volt battery or AC adapter
The power supply of an A/B guitar pedal is an important consideration, as it will affect the pedal’s portability and reliability. There are two main types of power supplies for A/B guitar pedals: 9-volt batteries and AC adapters.
- 9-volt batteries are the most common type of power supply for A/B guitar pedals. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to find, and they can provide several hours of playing time. However, 9-volt batteries can run out of power at the most inconvenient times, and they can be a hassle to replace.
- AC adapters are a more reliable power supply for A/B guitar pedals. They provide a constant source of power, and they are not affected by the battery life of the pedal. However, AC adapters can be more expensive than 9-volt batteries, and they can be more difficult to find.
Ultimately, the best power supply for an A/B guitar pedal depends on the individual guitarist’s needs. If portability is a concern, then a 9-volt battery may be the best option. If reliability is a concern, then an AC adapter may be the best option.
4. Buffered or unbuffered
Buffered and unbuffered A/B guitar pedals each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Buffered pedals maintain the signal strength when the pedal is engaged, while unbuffered pedals may cause a slight loss of signal strength. The type of pedal that is best for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
- Components
Buffered A/B guitar pedals have a buffer circuit that helps to maintain the signal strength when the pedal is engaged. Unbuffered A/B guitar pedals do not have a buffer circuit.
- Examples
Some popular buffered A/B guitar pedals include the Boss AB-2 and the MXR AB Box. Some popular unbuffered A/B guitar pedals include the Morley ABY and the Whirlwind Selector.
- Implications
Buffered A/B guitar pedals are a good choice for guitarists who want to maintain the signal strength when the pedal is engage
d. Unbuffered A/B guitar pedals are a good choice for guitarists who want a more natural sound.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of A/B guitar pedal is right for you is to try out different pedals and see what works best for your playing style.
5. Passive or active
Passive and active A/B guitar pedals each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Passive pedals do not require power to operate, while active pedals require power to operate but typically offer more features. The type of pedal that is best for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
- Components
Passive A/B guitar pedals do not have any active components, such as transistors or op-amps. Active A/B guitar pedals have active components, which allow them to offer more features, such as buffering, level matching, and impedance matching.
- Examples
Some popular passive A/B guitar pedals include the Boss AB-2 and the MXR AB Box. Some popular active A/B guitar pedals include the Morley ABY and the Whirlwind Selector.
- Implications
Passive A/B guitar pedals are a good choice for guitarists who want a simple and affordable pedal that does not require power. Active A/B guitar pedals are a good choice for guitarists who want a pedal with more features, such as buffering, level matching, and impedance matching.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of A/B guitar pedal is right for you is to try out different pedals and see what works best for your playing style.
6. Stereo or mono
The type of A/B guitar pedal you need will depend on the type of amplifier you have. If you have a stereo amplifier, you will need a stereo A/B guitar pedal. If you have a mono amplifier, you can use either a stereo or mono A/B guitar pedal.
Stereo A/B guitar pedals offer several advantages over mono A/B guitar pedals. First, they allow you to send two separate signals to your amplifier. This can be useful for creating a wider stereo sound or for sending different effects to each side of your amplifier.
For example, you could use a stereo A/B guitar pedal to send a clean signal to one side of your amplifier and a distorted signal to the other side. This would allow you to create a wide stereo sound with a clean and distorted sound.
Second, stereo A/B guitar pedals typically have more features than mono A/B guitar pedals. These features may include:
- Level matching: This feature allows you to match the levels of the two signals that you are sending to your amplifier. This is important for creating a balanced sound.
- Impedance matching: This feature allows you to match the impedance of the two signals that you are sending to your amplifier. This is important for preventing signal loss.
- Ground lift: This feature helps to eliminate ground loops, which can cause hum and noise in your signal.
If you are looking for an A/B guitar pedal that offers the best possible sound quality and features, then a stereo A/B guitar pedal is the best choice.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between stereo and mono A/B guitar pedals:
| Feature | Stereo A/B Guitar Pedal | Mono A/B Guitar Pedal |
|---|---|---|
| Number of outputs | 2 | 1 |
| Can be used with stereo amplifiers | Yes | No |
| Typically have more features | Yes | No |
7. Size and weight
The size and weight of an A/B guitar pedal is an important consideration, as it will affect the pedal’s portability and ease of use. Smaller and lighter pedals are easier to carry around and can be placed on a pedalboard without taking up too much space. Larger and heavier pedals may be more difficult to transport and may require a larger pedalboard.
The size and weight of an A/B guitar pedal is also important for determining how it will be used. Smaller and lighter pedals are well-suited for guitarists who need a pedal that is easy to transport and can be used in a variety of settings. Larger and heavier pedals may be better suited for guitarists who need a pedal with more features and durability.
Here are some examples of how the size and weight of an A/B guitar pedal can affect its use:
- A small and lightweight A/B guitar pedal is a good choice for guitarists who need a pedal that is easy to transport and can be used in a variety of settings. For example, a guitarist who plays in a band that travels frequently may want to choose a small and lightweight A/B guitar pedal that can be easily packed and transported.
- A larger and heavier A/B guitar pedal may be a better choice for guitarists who need a pedal with more features and durability. For example, a guitarist who plays in a loud band and needs a pedal that can withstand the rigors of live performance may want to choose a larger and heavier A/B guitar pedal.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which size and weight of A/B guitar pedal is right for you is to try out different pedals and see what works best for your playing style and needs.
| Size | Weight | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | Lightweight | Easy to transport and use in a variety of settings | May not have as many features or durability as larger pedals |
| Large | Heavy | May have more features and durability | More difficult to transport and may require a larger pedalboard |
8. Price
The price of an A/B guitar pedal is a significant factor to consider when purchasing one. The price of a pedal can vary depending on several factors, such as the brand, the features, and the build quality.
- Brand
The brand of an A/B guitar pedal can have a significant impact on the price. Pedals from well-known brands, such as Boss, MXR, and Morley, tend to be more expensive than pedals from lesser-known brands. - Features
The features of an A/B guitar pedal can also affect the price. Pedals with more features, such as buffering, level matching, and impedance matching, tend to be more expensive than pedals with fewer features. - Build quality
The build quality of an A/B guitar pedal can also affect the price. Pedals that are built with high-quality materials and components tend to be more expensive than pedals that are built with lower-quality materials and components. - Examples
Here are some examples of A/B guitar pedals that fall within different price ranges:- $50-$100: Boss AB-2, MXR AB Box
- $100-$150: Morley ABY, Whirlwind Selector
- $150-$200: Radial BigShot ABY, Voodoo Lab GCX ABY
Ultimately, the best way to decide how much you want to spend on an A/B guitar pedal is to consider your individual needs and preferences. If you need a pedal with a lot of features and high build quality, then you may be willing to pay more. If you need a pedal that is simple and affordable, then you may be able to find a good option for less money.
FAQs about A/B Guitar Pedals
A/B guitar pedals are essential tools for guitarists who need to be able to quickly and easily switch between two different guitar sounds. They are typically used to switch between a clean and a distorted sound, but can also be used to switch between different effects pedals or even different guitars.
Question 1: What are the benefits of using an A/B guitar pedal?
Answer: A/B guitar pedals offer several benefits, including the ability to quickly and easily switch between two different guitar sounds, the ability to create a wider stereo sound, and the ability to send different effects to each side of an amplifier.
Question 2: How do I choose the right A/B guitar pedal for me?
Answer: When choosing an A/B guitar pedal, it is important to consider the following factors: the number of channels you need, the type of switching method you prefer, the power supply you need, the size and weight of the pedal, and the price of the pedal.
Question 3: What are the different types of A/B guitar pedals?
Answer: There are two main types of A/B guitar pedals: passive and active. Passive A/B guitar pedals do not require power to operate, while active A/B guitar pedals require power to operate and typically offer more features.
Question 4: What is the difference between a stereo A/B guitar pedal and a mono A/B guitar pedal?
Answer: Stereo A/B guitar pedals have two outputs, which allows them to be used with stereo amplifiers. Mono A/B guitar pedals have only one output, which means that they can only be used with mono amplifiers.
Question 5: How do I use an A/B guitar pedal?
Answer: To use an A/B guitar pedal, simply connect your guitar to the input of the pedal, and then connect the outputs of the pedal to your amplifier. You can then use the footswitch on the pedal to switch between the two channels on the pedal.
Question 6: What are some tips for using an A/B guitar pedal?
Answer: Here are a few tips for using an A/B guitar pedal:
- Use the pedal to create a wider stereo sound by sending different effects to each side of your amplifier.
- Use the pedal to switch between different guitars without having to re-patch your cables.
- Use the pedal to experiment with different sounds by combining different effects pedals.
Summary of key takeaways or final thought: A/B guitar pedals are versatile and useful tools that can help guitarists to create a wide variety of sounds. By following the tips in this FAQ, you can get the most out of your A/B guitar pedal.
Transition to the next article section: For more information about A/B guitar pedals, please see our article on the topic.
A/B Guitar Pedal Tips
A/B guitar pedals are versatile and useful tools that can help guitarists to create a wide variety of sounds. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your A/B guitar pedal:
Tip 1: Use the pedal to create a wider stereo sound
By sending different effects to each side of your amplifier, you can create a wider stereo sound. This can be a great way to add depth and dimension to your sound.
Tip 2: Use the pedal to switch between different guitars without having to re-patch your cables
If you use multiple guitars in your rig, an A/B guitar pedal can make it easy to switch between them without having to re-patch your cables. This can save you time and hassle, especially if you’re playing live.
Tip 3: Use the pedal to experiment with different sounds by combining different effects pedals
An A/B guitar pedal can be a great way to experiment with different sounds by combining different effects pedals. For example, you could use one channel of the pedal to send a clean signal to your amplifier, and the other channel to send a distorted signal. You could then use the footswitch on the pedal to switch between the two sounds, or to blend them together.
Tip 4: Use the pedal to create a wet/dry rig
A wet/dry rig is a guitar setup that uses two amplifiers, one for clean sounds and one for effects. By using an A/B guitar pedal, you can easily create a wet/dry rig without having to buy a second amplifier. Simply connect your guitar to the input of the pedal, and then connect one output of the pedal to your clean amplifier and the other output to your effects amplifier.
Tip 5: Use the pedal to boost your signal
Some A/B guitar pedals have a built-in boost function that can be used to increase the volume of your signal. This can be helpful for solos or for cutting through a mix.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits
A/B guitar pedals are versatile and useful tools that can help guitarists to create a wide variety of sounds. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your A/B guitar pedal.
Transition to the article’s conclusion
For more information about A/B guitar pedals, please see our article on the topic.
Conclusion
A/B guitar pedals are essential tools for guitarists who need to be able to quickly and easily switch between two different guitar sounds. They are versatile and useful tools that can help guitarists to create a wide variety of sounds, from clean and distorted sounds to wet/dry rigs and boosted signals.
When choosing an A/B guitar pedal, it is important to consider the following factors: the number of channels you need, the type of switching method you prefer, the power supply you need, the size and weight of the pedal, and the price of the pedal. By considering these factors, you can choose the right A/B guitar pedal for your needs.
A/B guitar pedals are a valuable addition to any guitarist’s pedalboard. They can help guitarists to create a wide variety of sounds and to improve their live performance.
