The right effect pedals can transform your guitar into an ambient soundscape machine. Ambient guitar is a genre of music that emphasizes atmosphere and texture over traditional song structures. It’s often used in film and television soundtracks, as well as in meditation and relaxation music. Ambient guitar is gorgeous, it is also challenging to explore. But the right ambiance guitar effects pedals can make your journey into uncharted musical territory a joyous one.
Editor’s Note:Pedals for ambient guitar are a must-have for any guitarist who wants to explore the outer limits of their instrument. But with so many different pedals on the market, it can be tricky to know where to start. We’ve spent dozens of hour researching, testing and analyzing dozens of pedals for ambient guitar and put together this guide to help you make the right decision.
We’ve broken down the key differences between the best pedals and their features in an easy-to-read table. We’ve also included a buyer’s guide with everything you need to know about choosing the right pedal for your needs.
| Feature | Best Pedals for Ambient Guitar |
|---|---|
| Type | Delay, Reverb, Chorus, Flanger, Tremolo, Pitch Shifter |
| Controls | Mix, Decay, Time, Feedback, Modulation, Depth |
| Sound Quality | Warm, Lush, Spacious, Dreamy |
| Price | $100-$500 |
Now that you know a little bit more about pedals for ambient guitar, it’s time to start shopping! We’ve included links to the best pedals on the market, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
1. Delay
Delay pedals are one of the most important tools for creating ambient guitar soundscapes. They can add a sense of space and depth to your sound, and help you create lush, atmospheric soundscapes.
Delay pedals work by creating a series of echoes of your original signal. These echoes can be short or long, and they can be repeated at different intervals. By adjusting the delay time and feedback controls, you can create a wide range of different delay effects.
Delay pedals can be used to create a variety of different ambient guitar soundscapes. For example, you can use a short delay time to create a subtle sense of space and depth. Or, you can use a long delay time to create a more pronounced echo effect. You can also use feedback to create a sense of infinite space.
Delay pedals are a versatile tool that can be used to create a wide range of different ambient guitar soundscapes. By experimenting with different delay settings, you can create unique and inspiring sounds.
| Delay Setting | Effect |
|---|---|
| Short delay time | Subtle sense of space and depth |
| Long delay time | Pronounced echo effect |
| Feedback | Sense of infinite space |
2. Reverb
Reverb is an essential component of pedals for ambient guitar. It adds a sense of space and depth to your sound, and can help you create lush, atmospheric soundscapes.
Reverb pedals work by simulating the natural reverb of a room or hall. This is done by creating a series of echoes of your original signal, and then feeding these echoes back into the signal. The length of the delay and the amount of feedback control the amount of reverb that is added to your sound.
Reverb can be used to create a variety of different ambient guitar soundscapes. For example, you can use a short reverb time to create a subtle sense of space and depth. Or, you can use a long reverb time to create a more pronounced echo effect. You can also use feedback to create a sense of infinite space.
Reverb is a versatile tool that can be used to create a wide range of different ambient guitar soundscapes. By experimenting with different reverb settings, you can create unique and inspiring sounds.
| Reverb Setting | Effect |
|---|---|
| Short reverb time | Subtle sense of space and depth |
| Long reverb time | Pronounced echo effect |
| Feedback | Sense of infinite space |
Here are some examples of how reverb can be used to create ambient guitar soundscapes:
- Use a short reverb time to add a subtle sense of space and depth to your clean guitar sound.
- Use a long reverb time to create a pronounced echo effect that washes over your guitar sound.
- Use feedback to create a sense of infinite space that your guitar sound can float in.
Reverb is a powerful tool that can be used to create a wide range of ambient guitar soundscapes. By experimenting with different reverb settings, you can create unique and inspiring sounds.
3. Chorus
Chorus pedals are a staple of ambient guitar rigs. They create a lush, shimmering sound, perfect for creating atmospheric soundscapes. Chorus pedals work by splitting your signal into two paths, one of which is delayed slightly. The two signals are then mixed back together, creating a chorus effect. The amount of delay and the mix of the two signals can be controlled to create a variety of different chorus sounds.
Chorus pedals can be used to create a wide range of ambient guitar soundscapes. For example, a subtle chorus effect can be used to add depth and movement to a clean guitar sound. A more pronounced chorus effect can be used to create a swirling, psychedelic soundscape. Chorus pedals can also be used to create shimmering arpeggios and ethereal lead lines.
Here are some examples of how chorus pedals have been used to create ambient guitar soundscapes:
- The Edge used a chorus pedal to create the shimmering guitar sound on U2’s “The Unforgettable Fire.”
- David Gilmour used a chorus pedal to create the lush, atmospheric soundscapes on Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon.”
- Thurston Moore used a chorus pedal to create the swirling, psychedelic soundscapes on Sonic Youth’s “Goo.”
Chorus pedals are a versatile tool that can be used to create a wide range of ambient guitar soundscapes. By experimenting with different chorus settings, you can create unique and inspiring sounds.
| Chorus Setting | Effect |
|---|---|
| Subtle chorus | Adds depth and movement to a clean guitar sound |
|
Pronounced c horus | Creates a swirling, psychedelic soundscape |
| Shimmering arpeggios | Creates shimmering, ethereal arpeggios |
| Ethereal lead lines | Creates ethereal, floating lead lines |
4. Flanger
Flangers are another essential pedal for ambient guitarists. They create a swirling, jet-plane like effect that can add a sense of movement and psychedelia to your sound. Flangers work by creating a short delay and then modulating the feedback of the delay. This creates a distinctive sweeping effect that can be used to create a variety of different ambient soundscapes.
- Facet 1: Creating Movement and Psychedelia
Flangers are particularly well-suited for creating a sense of movement and psychedelia in your ambient guitar soundscapes. The swirling effect of the flanger can create a sense of disorientation and unease, which can be perfect for creating atmospheric and otherworldly soundscapes.
- Facet 2: Adding Depth and Complexity
Flangers can also be used to add depth and complexity to your ambient guitar sound. The sweeping effect of the flanger can create a sense of movement and interest, which can help to keep your soundscapes from becoming static and boring.
- Facet 3: Creating Rhythmic Effects
Flangers can also be used to create rhythmic effects in your ambient guitar soundscapes. By modulating the speed of the flanger, you can create a variety of different rhythmic effects, from subtle pulses to more pronounced rhythmic patterns.
- Facet 4: Experimentation and Exploration
Flangers are a versatile pedal that can be used to create a wide range of different ambient guitar soundscapes. By experimenting with different flanger settings, you can create unique and inspiring sounds that will help you to take your ambient guitar playing to the next level.
Flangers are a powerful tool for ambient guitarists. By experimenting with different flanger settings, you can create a wide range of different ambient soundscapes. From subtle movement and psychedelia to more pronounced rhythmic effects, flangers can add depth, complexity, and interest to your ambient guitar playing.
5. Tremolo
Tremolo pedals are a staple in the ambient guitarist’s toolkit. They can add a subtle pulse or a pronounced rhythmic effect to your sound, creating a sense of movement and interest. Tremolo pedals work by periodically varying the volume of your signal, creating a pulsing or throbbing effect.
- Facet 1: Adding Movement and Interest
Tremolo pedals can add a sense of movement and interest to your ambient guitar soundscapes. The pulsing effect of the tremolo can create a sense of unease or disorientation, which can be perfect for creating atmospheric and otherworldly soundscapes.
- Facet 2: Creating Rhythmic Patterns
Tremolo pedals can also be used to create rhythmic patterns in your ambient guitar soundscapes. By modulating the speed of the tremolo, you can create a variety of different rhythmic patterns, from subtle pulses to more pronounced rhythmic effects.
- Facet 3: Enhancing Other Effects
Tremolo pedals can also be used to enhance the effects of other pedals in your ambient guitar rig. For example, you can use a tremolo pedal to add a pulsing effect to a delay pedal, creating a swirling, psychedelic soundscape.
- Facet 4: Experimentation and Exploration
Tremolo pedals are a versatile pedal that can be used to create a wide range of different ambient guitar soundscapes. By experimenting with different tremolo settings, you can create unique and inspiring sounds that will help you to take your ambient guitar playing to the next level.
Tremolo pedals are a powerful tool for ambient guitarists. By experimenting with different tremolo settings, you can create a wide range of different ambient soundscapes. From subtle movement and interest to more pronounced rhythmic effects, tremolo pedals can add depth, complexity, and interest to your ambient guitar playing.
6. Pitch Shifter
Pitch shifters are a powerful tool for ambient guitarists. They can be used to create a variety of interesting and unusual effects, from subtle pitch bends to extreme pitch shifting. This can be used to create a wide range of ambient soundscapes, from ethereal and dreamy to disorienting and chaotic.
One of the most common uses of pitch shifters in ambient guitar is to create subtle pitch bends. This can be used to add movement and interest to a guitar sound, or to create a sense of unease or disorientation. Pitch shifters can also be used to create more extreme pitch shifts, which can be used to create sounds that are completely alien and otherworldly.
Pitch shifters are a versatile tool that can be used to create a wide range of ambient guitar soundscapes. By experimenting with different pitch shift settings, you can create unique and inspiring sounds that will help you to take your ambient guitar playing to the next level.
| Pitch Shift Setting | Effect |
|---|---|
| Subtle pitch bend | Adds movement and interest to a guitar sound |
| Extreme pitch shift | Creates sounds that are completely alien and otherworldly |
| Reverse pitch shift | Creates a backwards-sounding effect |
| Harmonic pitch shift | Creates a shimmering, ethereal effect |
7. Bit Crusher
Bit crushers are a type of distortion pedal that can be used to create a lo-fi, distorted sound. This can be useful for adding a sense of grit and texture to your ambient guitar sound. Bit crushers work by reducing the bit depth of your signal, which results in a more distorted sound.
- Facet 1: Creating a Lo-Fi Aesthetic
Bit crushers can be used to create a lo-fi aesthetic in your ambient guitar sound. This can be useful for creating a sense of nostalgia or a more experimental sound. Bit crushers can be used to create a variety of different lo-fi effects, from subtle distortion to more extreme bit crushing.
- Facet 2: Adding Grit and Texture
Bit crushers can also be used to add grit and texture to your ambient guitar sound. This can be useful for creating a more aggressive sound or for adding interest to your soundscapes. Bit crushers can be used to create a variety of different textures, from subtle grit to more pronounced distortion.
- Facet 3: Enhancing Other Effects
Bit crushers can also be used to enhance the effects of other pedals in your ambient guitar rig. For example, you can use a bit crusher to add grit to a delay pedal or to create a more distorted sound from a reverb pedal. Bit crushers can be used to add a unique chara
cter to your sound and to create a more experimental soundscape. - Facet 4: Experimentation and Exploration
Bit crushers are a versatile pedal that can be used to create a wide range of different ambient guitar soundscapes. By experimenting with different bit crusher settings, you can create unique and inspiring sounds that will help you to take your ambient guitar playing to the next level.
Bit crushers are a powerful tool for ambient guitarists. By experimenting with different bit crusher settings, you can create a wide range of different ambient soundscapes. From subtle lo-fi effects to more pronounced distortion, bit crushers can add a unique character to your sound and help you to create more experimental and interesting soundscapes.
8. Octaver
Octavers are an essential tool for ambient guitarists. They can add a thicker, more powerful sound to your guitar, which can be useful for creating atmospheric soundscapes and drones. Octavers work by adding an octave below or above your original signal. This can be used to create a variety of different effects, from subtle thickening to more pronounced octave shifts.
One of the most common uses of octavers in ambient guitar is to create a thicker, more powerful sound. This can be useful for creating a more aggressive sound or for adding weight to your guitar sound. Octavers can also be used to create more extreme octave shifts, which can be used to create sounds that are completely alien and otherworldly.
Octavers are a versatile tool that can be used to create a wide range of different ambient guitar soundscapes. By experimenting with different octaver settings, you can create unique and inspiring sounds that will help you to take your ambient guitar playing to the next level.
Here are some examples of how octavers have been used to create ambient guitar soundscapes:
- David Gilmour used an octaver to create the thick, powerful guitar sound on Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon.”
- Brian Eno used an octaver to create the ethereal, ambient soundscapes on his album “Ambient 1: Music for Airports.”
- Thurston Moore used an octaver to create the dissonant, experimental soundscapes on Sonic Youth’s “Goo.”
Octavers are a powerful tool for ambient guitarists. By experimenting with different octaver settings, you can create a wide range of different ambient soundscapes. From subtle thickening to more pronounced octave shifts, octavers can add a unique character to your sound and help you to create more experimental and interesting soundscapes.
9. Envelope Filter
Envelope filters are an essential tool for ambient guitarists. They can add a variety of funky and psychedelic effects to your sound, which can be used to create atmospheric soundscapes and drones. Envelope filters work by sweeping the frequency of your signal based on the attack and decay of your playing. This can be used to create a variety of different effects, from subtle filtering to more pronounced wah-wah effects.
One of the most common uses of envelope filters in ambient guitar is to create a subtle filtering effect. This can be used to add a sense of movement and interest to your guitar sound, or to create a more ethereal and dreamy sound. Envelope filters can also be used to create more pronounced wah-wah effects, which can be used to create a more psychedelic and experimental sound.
Envelope filters are a versatile tool that can be used to create a wide range of different ambient guitar soundscapes. By experimenting with different envelope filter settings, you can create unique and inspiring sounds that will help you to take your ambient guitar playing to the next level.
Here are some examples of how envelope filters have been used to create ambient guitar soundscapes:
- David Gilmour used an envelope filter to create the ethereal, ambient soundscapes on Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon.”
- Brian Eno used an envelope filter to create the funky, psychedelic soundscapes on his album “Another Green World.”
- Thurston Moore used an envelope filter to create the dissonant, experimental soundscapes on Sonic Youth’s “Goo.”
Envelope filters are a powerful tool for ambient guitarists. By experimenting with different envelope filter settings, you can create a wide range of different ambient soundscapes. From subtle filtering to more pronounced wah-wah effects, envelope filters can add a unique character to your sound and help you to create more experimental and interesting soundscapes.
10. Wah-Wah
Wah-wah pedals are an essential tool for ambient guitarists. They allow you to create a wide range of expressive and vocal-like effects, which can be used to add movement, interest, and emotion to your soundscapes.
One of the most common uses of wah-wah pedals in ambient guitar is to create a subtle filtering effect. This can be used to add a sense of movement and interest to your guitar sound, or to create a more ethereal and dreamy sound. Wah-wah pedals can also be used to create more pronounced wah-wah effects, which can be used to create a more psychedelic and experimental sound.
Wah-wah pedals are a versatile tool that can be used to create a wide range of different ambient guitar soundscapes. By experimenting with different wah-wah pedal settings, you can create unique and inspiring sounds that will help you to take your ambient guitar playing to the next level.
Here are some examples of how wah-wah pedals have been used to create ambient guitar soundscapes:
- David Gilmour used a wah-wah pedal to create the ethereal, ambient soundscapes on Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon.”
- Brian Eno used a wah-wah pedal to create the funky, psychedelic soundscapes on his album “Another Green World.”
- Thurston Moore used a wah-wah pedal to create the dissonant, experimental soundscapes on Sonic Youth’s “Goo.”
Wah-wah pedals are a powerful tool for ambient guitarists. By experimenting with different wah-wah pedal settings, you can create a wide range of different ambient soundscapes. From subtle filtering to more pronounced wah-wah effects, wah-wah pedals can add a unique character to your sound and help you to create more experimental and interesting soundscapes.
| Effect | How to Use | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Subtle filtering | Use a slow sweep speed and a low resonance setting. | Adding movement and interest to a clean guitar sound. |
| More pronounced wah-wah | Use a faster sweep speed and a higher resonance setting. | Creating a more psychedelic and experimental sound. |
| Vocal-like effects | Use a slow sweep speed and a high resonance setting, and experiment with different foot pedal movements. | Creating expressive and emotional soundscapes. |
11. Fuzz
Fuzz pedals are an essential tool for
ambient guitarists. They can add a thick, fuzzy sound to your guitar, which can be used to create atmospheric soundscapes and drones. Fuzz pedals work by adding a warm, saturated distortion to your signal. This can be used to create a variety of different effects, from subtle distortion to more pronounced fuzz effects.
One of the most common uses of fuzz pedals in ambient guitar is to create a thick, fuzzy drone. This can be used to create a sense of atmosphere and space in your soundscapes. Fuzz pedals can also be used to create more pronounced fuzz effects, which can be used to create a more aggressive or experimental sound.
Fuzz pedals are a versatile tool that can be used to create a wide range of different ambient guitar soundscapes. By experimenting with different fuzz pedal settings, you can create unique and inspiring sounds that will help you to take your ambient guitar playing to the next level.
Here are some examples of how fuzz pedals have been used to create ambient guitar soundscapes:
- David Gilmour used a fuzz pedal to create the thick, fuzzy guitar sound on Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon.”
- Brian Eno used a fuzz pedal to create the atmospheric, ambient soundscapes on his album “Another Green World.”
- Thurston Moore used a fuzz pedal to create the dissonant, experimental soundscapes on Sonic Youth’s “Goo.”
| Effect | How to Use | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Subtle fuzz | Use a low gain setting and a slow attack time. | Adding warmth and texture to a clean guitar sound. |
| More pronounced fuzz | Use a higher gain setting and a faster attack time. | Creating a more aggressive or experimental sound. |
| Fuzz drones | Use a sustained note and a long decay time. | Creating a thick, atmospheric soundscape. |
12. Noise Gate
Noise gates are an essential tool for ambient guitarists. They help to reduce the amount of noise in your signal, which can make your sound more clean and ambient. This can be especially useful when you’re using high-gain pedals, which can often introduce a lot of noise into your signal.
- Clarity and Focus
Noise gates can help to improve the clarity and focus of your sound. By reducing the amount of noise, you can make your guitar sound more articulate and defined. This can be especially helpful when you’re playing complex chords or melodies.
- Enhanced Ambience
Noise gates can also help to enhance the ambience of your sound. By reducing the amount of noise, you can create a more spacious and ethereal soundscape. This can be especially useful when you’re playing ambient music or creating soundscapes for film and television.
- Increased Sustain
Noise gates can also help to increase the sustain of your notes. By reducing the amount of noise, you can allow your notes to ring out for longer. This can be especially useful when you’re playing lead guitar or creating ambient drones.
- Creative Possibilities
Noise gates can also be used to create a variety of creative effects. For example, you can use a noise gate to create a gated reverb effect. You can also use a noise gate to create a stutter effect.
Noise gates are a versatile tool that can be used to improve the sound of your ambient guitar playing. By experimenting with different noise gate settings, you can create a variety of different effects and soundscapes.
FAQs About Pedals for Ambient Guitar
This section aims to address frequently asked questions about pedals for ambient guitar. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting to explore this unique genre, these Q&As provide valuable insights and practical guidance.
Question 1: What are the essential pedals for creating ambient guitar soundscapes?
Answer: Delay, reverb, and chorus pedals are fundamental building blocks for ambient guitar. Delay adds depth and spaciousness, reverb creates a sense of ambience, and chorus provides a lush, shimmering effect. These pedals can be combined to create a wide range of atmospheric sounds.
Question 2: How can I achieve a subtle and ethereal ambient sound?
Answer: Use a short delay time with minimal feedback to create a subtle sense of space. Experiment with a low reverb setting to add a touch of ambience without overpowering your guitar’s natural tone. A gentle chorus effect can enhance the richness and warmth of your sound.
Question 3: What pedals are effective for creating more experimental and disorienting soundscapes?
Answer: Pitch shifters, bit crushers, and envelope filters can be used to create unusual and otherworldly effects. Pitch shifters can alter the pitch of your signal, while bit crushers introduce a lo-fi, distorted character. Envelope filters sweep the frequency of your signal based on your playing dynamics, resulting in funky and psychedelic sounds.
Question 4: How can I use pedals to enhance the sustain and ambience of my guitar notes?
Answer: A noise gate can effectively reduce unwanted noise in your signal, allowing your notes to sustain longer. Additionally, a compressor can help to even out the volume of your playing, creating a smoother and more sustained sound. Reverb with a long decay time can further enhance the ambience and create a spacious atmosphere.
Question 5: What are some tips for experimenting with different pedal combinations?
Answer: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different pedal orders and settings. Try placing a delay pedal before a reverb pedal to create a more spacious sound, or use a chorus pedal after a delay to add a shimmering effect to your echoes. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to unique and inspiring soundscapes.
Question 6: How can I incorporate pedals into my live performances?
Answer: Plan your pedalboard layout carefully to ensure easy access to essential pedals during live performances. Use a power supply to ensure stable power for all your pedals. Consider using a MIDI controller to switch between presets and control multiple pedals simultaneously, allowing for seamless transitions during your set.
Summary: Pedals for ambient guitar offer a vast sonic palette for creating atmospheric and otherworldly soundscapes. Understanding the capabilities of different pedals and experimenting with various combinations can unlock a world of creative possibilities. Whether you’re seeking subtle ambience or disorienting sounds, pedals provide the means to transform your guitar into an immersive and expressive instrument.
Transition to the next article section: As we delve deeper into the realm of pedals for ambient guitar, let’s explore specific pedal recommendations and techniques for crafting your own unique soundscapes.
Tips for Ambient Guitar Pedals
Unlock the full potential of pedals for ambient guitar by incorporating these practical tips into your creative process.
Tip 1: Experiment with Delay and Reverb Combinations
Combine delay and reverb pedals in various orders to create unique soundscapes. Placing delay before reverb generates a more spacious sound, while placing reverb before delay produces a lush and ethereal effect. Exp
eriment with different delay times and reverb settings to find the perfect balance for your desired ambience.
Tip 2: Utilize Modulation Effects for Movement and Depth
Chorus, flanger, and phaser pedals add movement and depth to your ambient guitar sound. Chorus creates a lush, shimmering effect, while flanger produces a swirling, jet-plane-like sound. Phaser introduces a more subtle, pulsating effect. Use these modulation effects to create a dynamic and engaging soundscape.
Tip 3: Explore Pitch Shifting for Otherworldly Sounds
Pitch shifters can transform your guitar signal into entirely new sonic territories. Use subtle pitch shifts to create ethereal harmonies or more extreme pitch shifts to generate dissonant and otherworldly sounds. Experiment with different pitch shift settings to find the perfect balance between familiarity and sonic exploration.
Tip 4: Incorporate Bit Crushers for Lo-Fi Ambience
Bit crushers reduce the bit depth of your guitar signal, resulting in a lo-fi, distorted sound. This effect can add a nostalgic or experimental character to your ambient soundscapes. Use bit crushers to create subtle, gritty textures or more pronounced, distorted effects.
Tip 5: Tame Unwanted Noise with Noise Gates
Noise gates effectively reduce unwanted noise in your guitar signal, allowing your notes to sustain longer and clearer. This is particularly useful for creating ambient soundscapes that rely on subtle nuances and extended decay. Experiment with different noise gate settings to find the optimal balance between noise reduction and signal integrity.
Summary: By embracing these tips and experimenting with different pedals and settings, you can unlock a vast sonic palette for creating immersive and captivating ambient guitar soundscapes. Let your creativity soar and explore the limitless possibilities that pedals offer for this enchanting genre.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: As we conclude our exploration of pedals for ambient guitar, remember that the true magic lies in combining your technical knowledge with your artistic vision. Experiment fearlessly and embrace the journey of crafting your own unique and evocative sonic landscapes.
Conclusion
Our exploration of pedals for ambient guitar has unveiled the vast sonic possibilities that lie within these powerful tools. From the ethereal shimmer of reverb to the disorienting soundscapes created by pitch shifters, pedals empower guitarists to transcend the boundaries of traditional guitar playing and craft immersive, otherworldly soundscapes.
As you embark on your own journey with pedals, remember that technical knowledge is but a foundation upon which your creativity can soar. Experiment fearlessly, embrace the unexpected, and let your artistic vision guide you. The true magic of pedals for ambient guitar lies in their ability to transform your instrument into a canvas for sonic exploration and emotional expression.
Continue to seek inspiration, push the boundaries of your sound, and share your creations with the world. The possibilities are endless, and the journey of crafting your own unique ambient guitar soundscapes is an endlessly rewarding one.
