Do you want to achieve mind-bending, swirling sonic textures or ear-splitting, piercing squeals from your guitar? If so, then you need to understand guitar pedal feedback.
Editor’s Note: Guitar pedal feedback is a powerful tool that can add a new dimension to your playing.It can be used to create everything from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise, and it’s a great way to experiment with different sounds.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about guitar pedal feedback, from how to get started to how to use it to create your own unique sounds.
Key Differences:
| Positive Feedback | Negative Feedback | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Occurs when the output of an amplifier is fed back into the input, creating a runaway loop of sound. | Occurs when the output of an amplifier is fed back into the input, but the phase is inverted, which results in a reduction of gain. |
| Effect | Can create a wide range of sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. | Can be used to reduce gain and smooth out the sound of an amplifier. |
Transition to main article topics:
- How to get started with guitar pedal feedback
- How to use guitar pedal feedback to create different sounds
- Tips for using guitar pedal feedback safely
1. Positive feedback
Positive feedback is a type of feedback that occurs when the output of a system is fed back into the input, creating a runaway loop of sound. This can be used to create a variety of effects, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. In the context of guitar pedal feedback, positive feedback can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle sustain to ear-splitting squeals.
- Sustain: Positive feedback can be used to create sustain, which is the ability of a note to ring out for a long time after it has been played. This can be achieved by using a feedback loop to create a runaway oscillation, which will continue to amplify the sound of the note until it is stopped.
- Distortion: Positive feedback can also be used to create distortion, which is a type of sound effect that adds a crunchy, overdriven sound to the guitar. This can be achieved by using a feedback loop to create a runaway oscillation, which will cause the sound of the guitar to clip and distort.
- Noise: Positive feedback can also be used to create noise, which is a type of sound effect that is characterized by its lack of a distinct pitch. This can be achieved by using a feedback loop to create a runaway oscillation, which will cause the sound of the guitar to become chaotic and unpredictable.
- Feedback loops: Feedback loops are the key to creating positive feedback. A feedback loop is a path that the signal takes when it is fed back from the output of an amplifier to the input. The length of the feedback loop will determine the frequency of the feedback, and the amount of gain in the feedback loop will determine the volume of the feedback.
These are just a few of the many ways that positive feedback can be used to create guitar pedal feedback. By experimenting with different feedback loops and gain settings, you can create an endless variety of sounds.
2. Negative feedback
Negative feedback is a type of feedback that occurs when the output of a system is fed back into the input, but the phase is inverted. This means that the feedback signal is out of phase with the original signal, which results in a reduction of gain. In the context of guitar pedal feedback, negative feedback can be used to reduce the amount of feedback that is produced, or to shape the sound of the feedback.
Negative feedback can be used to reduce the amount of feedback that is produced by a guitar amplifier. This can be useful in situations where feedback is causing problems, such as when it is making the sound of the amplifier muddy or distorted. By using negative feedback, the amount of feedback can be reduced, which will result in a cleaner sound.
Negative feedback can also be used to shape the sound of feedback. By adjusting the amount of negative feedback, the frequency and pitch of the feedback can be changed. This can be used to create a variety of different feedback sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise.
| Positive Feedback | Negative Feedback | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Occurs when the output of an amplifier is fed back into the input, creating a runaway loop of sound. | Occurs when the output of an amplifier is fed back into the input, but the phase is inverted, which results in a reduction of gain. |
| Effect | Can create a wide range of sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. | Can be used to reduce gain and smooth out the sound of an amplifier. |
| Use in guitar pedal feedback | Can be used to create a variety of feedback sounds, from subtle sustain to ear-splitting squeals. | Can be used to reduce the amount of feedback that is produced, or to shape the sound of the feedback. |
Negative feedback is a powerful tool that can be used to control and shape the sound of guitar pedal feedback. By understanding how negative feedback works, you can use it to create a variety of different feedback sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise.
3. Feedback loop
A feedback loop is a crucial component of guitar pedal feedback. It is the path that the signal takes when it is fed back from the output of an amplifier to the input. The length of the feedback loop will determine the frequency of the feedback, and the amount of gain in the feedback loop will determine the volume of the feedback.
Guitar pedal feedback can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. The type of sound that is created will depend on the length of the feedback loop, the amount of gain in the feedback loop, and the type of guitar pedal that is being used.
For example, a short feedback loop with a low amount of gain will create a subtle ambiance. A long feedback loop with a high amount of gain will create a chaotic noise. And a feedback loop with a delay pedal in it will create a delayed feedback sound.
Guitar pedal feedback is a powerful tool that can be used to create a vari
ety of different sounds. By understanding how feedback loops work, you can use them to create your own unique sounds.
| Feedback Loop | Guitar Pedal Feedback | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The path that the signal takes when it is fed back from the output of an amplifier to the input. | The use of feedback loops to create a variety of sounds on a guitar. |
| Importance | Feedback loops are essential for creating guitar pedal feedback. | Guitar pedal feedback can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. |
| Practical Significance | Understanding how feedback loops work can help you create your own unique guitar pedal feedback sounds. | Guitar pedal feedback can be used to add a new dimension to your playing and experiment with different sounds. |
4. Resonance
Resonance is a key component of guitar pedal feedback. It is the tendency of a system to vibrate at a specific frequency when it is disturbed. In the case of guitar pedal feedback, the system is the guitar and amplifier. When the guitar string is plucked, it vibrates at a specific frequency. This vibration is picked up by the guitar pickup and sent to the amplifier. The amplifier then sends the signal back to the guitar speaker, which causes the guitar string to vibrate again. This process creates a feedback loop, which can cause the guitar to vibrate at a very high frequency. This vibration can be heard as a loud, piercing squeal.
The frequency of the feedback is determined by the length of the feedback loop. A shorter feedback loop will create a higher frequency feedback, while a longer feedback loop will create a lower frequency feedback. The amount of gain in the feedback loop will also affect the frequency of the feedback. More gain will create a higher frequency feedback, while less gain will create a lower frequency feedback.
Guitar pedal feedback can be used to create a variety of different sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. By understanding how resonance works, you can use guitar pedal feedback to create your own unique sounds.
| Resonance | Guitar Pedal Feedback | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The tendency of a system to vibrate at a specific frequency when it is disturbed. | The use of feedback loops to create a variety of sounds on a guitar. |
| Importance | Resonance is a key component of guitar pedal feedback. | Guitar pedal feedback can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. |
| Practical Significance | Understanding how resonance works can help you create your own unique guitar pedal feedback sounds. | Guitar pedal feedback can be used to add a new dimension to your playing and experiment with different sounds. |
5. Feedback pitch
Feedback pitch is an important aspect of guitar pedal feedback. It is the pitch of the sound that is created by feedback, and it can be used to create a variety of different sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise.
The pitch of the feedback is determined by the length of the feedback loop and the amount of gain in the feedback loop. A shorter feedback loop will create a higher pitched feedback, while a longer feedback loop will create a lower pitched feedback. More gain will create a higher pitched feedback, while less gain will create a lower pitched feedback.
Feedback pitch can be used to create a variety of different sounds. For example, a high pitched feedback can be used to create a piercing squeal, while a low pitched feedback can be used to create a subtle ambiance. Feedback pitch can also be used to create interesting and unique soundscapes.
Understanding how feedback pitch works can help you to create your own unique guitar pedal feedback sounds. By experimenting with different feedback loops and gain settings, you can create a wide range of different sounds.
| Feedback Pitch | Guitar Pedal Feedback | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The pitch of the sound that is created by feedback. | The use of feedback loops to create a variety of sounds on a guitar. |
| Importance | Feedback pitch is an important aspect of guitar pedal feedback. | Guitar pedal feedback can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. |
| Practical Significance | Understanding how feedback pitch works can help you to create your own unique guitar pedal feedback sounds. | Guitar pedal feedback can be used to add a new dimension to your playing and experiment with different sounds. |
6. Feedback volume
Feedback volume is a key aspect of guitar pedal feedback as it determines the loudness of the sound that is created. A louder feedback volume can be used to create a more powerful and aggressive sound, while a softer feedback volume can be used to create a more subtle and ambient sound.
- Feedback volume and gain
The amount of gain in the feedback loop will affect the volume of the feedback. More gain will create a louder feedback volume, while less gain will create a softer feedback volume.
- Feedback volume and distance
The distance between the guitar and the amplifier will also affect the volume of the feedback. A shorter distance will create a louder feedback volume, while a longer distance will create a softer feedback volume.
- Feedback volume and feedback loop length
The length of the feedback loop will also affect the volume of the feedback. A shorter feedback loop will create a louder feedback volume, while a longer feedback loop will create a softer feedback volume.
- Feedback volume and guitar pickup output
The output of the guitar pickup will also affect the volume of the feedback. A higher output pickup will create a louder feedback volume, while a lower output pickup will create a softer feedback volume.
Understanding how feedback volume works can help you to control the volume of the feedback that is created. This can be useful in situations where feedback is causing problems, such as when it is making the sound of the amplifier muddy or distorted. By reducing the feedback volume, you can reduce the amount of feedback that is produced, which will result in a cleaner sound.
7. Feedback control
Feedback control is a crucial aspect of guitar pedal feedback, as
it allows you to adjust the amount of feedback that is produced. This can be useful in a variety of situations, such as when you want to create a subtle ambiance or a chaotic noise. By understanding how feedback control works, you can use it to create your own unique guitar pedal feedback sounds.
- Feedback control and feedback volume
The feedback control knob or switch will typically adjust the amount of gain in the feedback loop. This will in turn affect the volume of the feedback. More gain will result in a louder feedback volume, while less gain will result in a softer feedback volume.
- Feedback control and feedback pitch
The feedback control knob or switch may also affect the pitch of the feedback. This is because the gain will affect the frequency of the feedback loop. More gain will result in a higher pitched feedback, while less gain will result in a lower pitched feedback.
- Feedback control and feedback type
The feedback control knob or switch may also affect the type of feedback that is produced. For example, a feedback control knob or switch may be used to create positive feedback, negative feedback, or a combination of both. Positive feedback will create a runaway loop of sound, while negative feedback will reduce the amount of feedback that is produced.
- Feedback control and safety
It is important to use feedback control safely. Feedback can be a powerful tool, but it can also be dangerous if it is not used properly. Feedback can damage your equipment or hearing, so it is important to use it responsibly.
By understanding how feedback control works, you can use it to create a variety of different guitar pedal feedback sounds. Experiment with different settings to find the sounds that you like best.
8. Feedback effects
Feedback effects are a key part of guitar pedal feedback. They are the different types of sounds that can be created by feedback, and they can be used to add a new dimension to your playing. The most common feedback effects are ambiance, noise, and distortion, but there are many other possibilities.
- Ambiance
Ambiance is a type of feedback that creates a lush, spacious sound. It is often used to add depth and atmosphere to a guitar sound. Ambiance can be created by using a long feedback loop with a low amount of gain. This will create a smooth, sustained feedback sound that can be used to create a dreamy or ethereal atmosphere.
- Noise
Noise is a type of feedback that creates a harsh, unpredictable sound. It is often used to add texture and interest to a guitar sound. Noise can be created by using a short feedback loop with a high amount of gain. This will create a chaotic, noisy sound that can be used to create a variety of different effects.
- Distortion
Distortion is a type of feedback that creates a crunchy, overdriven sound. It is often used to add aggression and power to a guitar sound. Distortion can be created by using a feedback loop with a high amount of gain. This will create a distorted sound that can be used to create a variety of different effects.
These are just a few of the many different types of feedback effects that can be created. By experimenting with different feedback loops and gain settings, you can create a wide range of different sounds. Feedback effects can be used to add a new dimension to your playing and experiment with different sounds.
9. Feedback techniques
Feedback techniques are essential for creating guitar pedal feedback. By understanding how to use different feedback techniques, you can create a wide range of different sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. Some common feedback techniques include:
- Using a feedback loop: A feedback loop is a path that the signal takes when it is fed back from the output of an amplifier to the input. The length of the feedback loop will determine the frequency of the feedback, and the amount of gain in the feedback loop will determine the volume of the feedback.
- Using a delay pedal: A delay pedal can be used to create a delayed feedback sound. This can be achieved by setting the delay time to a short setting and then feeding the output of the delay pedal back into the input. The feedback will then be delayed, which will create a unique and interesting sound.
- Using a distortion pedal: A distortion pedal can be used to create a distorted feedback sound. This can be achieved by setting the distortion pedal to a high gain setting and then feeding the output of the distortion pedal back into the input. The feedback will then be distorted, which will create a crunchy and overdriven sound.
- Using a combination of pedals: Different pedals can be combined to create a variety of different feedback sounds. For example, a delay pedal and a distortion pedal can be used together to create a delayed and distorted feedback sound.
These are just a few of the many different feedback techniques that can be used to create guitar pedal feedback. By experimenting with different feedback techniques, you can create a wide range of different sounds. Feedback techniques can be used to add a new dimension to your playing and experiment with different sounds.
Practical applications
Feedback techniques can be used in a variety of different musical contexts. For example, feedback can be used to create a subtle ambiance in a ballad or a chaotic noise in an experimental piece. Feedback can also be used to create a variety of different sound effects, such as a delayed feedback sound or a distorted feedback sound.
Challenges
Feedback can be a powerful tool, but it can also be difficult to control. If feedback is not used properly, it can damage your equipment or hearing. It is important to use feedback safely and responsibly.
| Feedback Techniques | Guitar Pedal Feedback | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The different ways that you can use feedback to create different sounds. | The use of feedback loops to create a variety of sounds on a guitar. |
| Importance | Feedback techniques are essential for creating guitar pedal feedback. | Guitar pedal feedback can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. |
| Practical Significance | Understanding how to use different feedback techniques can help you create your own unique guitar pedal feedback sounds. | Guitar pedal feedback can be used to add a new dimension to your playing and experiment with different sounds. |
10. Feedback safety
Guitar pedal feedback can be a powerful tool, but it is important to use it safely. Feedback can damage your equipment or hearing if it is not used properly. Here are some tips for using feedback safely:
- Use a feedback suppressor
A feedback suppressor is a device that can be used to reduce the amount of feedback that is produced. Feedback suppressors are available in a variety of forms, including pedals, rackmount units, and software plugins. If you are using feedback, it is a good idea to use a feedback suppressor to protect your equipment and hearing. - Turn down the volume
One of the best ways to avoid damaging your equipment or hearing is to turn down the volume. When you are using feedback, it is important to start with a low volume and gradually increase the volume until you reach the desired level. If you start with the volume too high, you are more likely to damage your equipment or hearing. - Wear earplugs
Wearing earplugs is a good way to protect your hearing from the harmful effects of feedback. Feedback can be very loud, so it is important to wear earplugs to protect your hearing. There are a variety of different earplugs available, so you can find a pair that is comfortable and provides the level of protection that you need. - Be aware of your surroundings
When you are using feedback, it is important to be aware of your surroundings. Make sure that you are not pointing the speaker at anyone or anything that could be damaged by the feedback. Also, be aware of the volume of the feedback and make sure that it is not too loud for the people around you.
By following these tips, you can help to reduce the risk of damaging your equipment or hearing when using feedback. Feedback can be a powerful tool, but it is important to use it safely.
11. Feedback experimentation
Feedback experimentation is a crucial aspect of guitar pedal feedback, as it allows you to explore the vast sonic possibilities of this technique and discover your own unique sounds. By experimenting with different feedback loops, gain settings, pedals, and techniques, you can create a wide range of sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. This experimentation is essential for developing your own personal style and finding your own voice as a guitarist.
One of the most important aspects of feedback experimentation is understanding the cause-and-effect relationship between different variables and the resulting feedback sounds. For example, increasing the gain will typically result in a louder and more intense feedback, while decreasing the gain will result in a softer and more subtle feedback. Similarly, using a longer feedback loop will typically result in a lower pitched feedback, while using a shorter feedback loop will typically result in a higher pitched feedback. By understanding these relationships, you can use feedback experimentation to create the exact sounds that you want.
Feedback experimentation can also be used to create a variety of different sound effects. For example, using a delay pedal in the feedback loop can create a delayed feedback sound, while using a distortion pedal in the feedback loop can create a distorted feedback sound. By combining different pedals and techniques, you can create an endless variety of unique and interesting sounds.
The practical significance of feedback experimentation is that it allows you to find your own unique voice as a guitarist. By experimenting with different feedback techniques, you can develop your own signature sound and style. This can help you to stand out from other guitarists and create music that is truly unique and personal.
Here are some tips for feedback experimentation:
- Start with a low level of gain and gradually increase it until you reach the desired level of feedback.
- Experiment with different feedback loops, such as using a guitar cable, a delay pedal, or a feedback suppressor.
- Try using different pedals in the feedback loop, such as a distortion pedal, a delay pedal, or a reverb pedal.
- Be patient and experiment with different techniques until you find the sounds that you like.
| Feedback Experimentation | Guitar Pedal Feedback | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The process of experimenting with feedback to find your own unique sounds. | The use of feedback loops to create a variety of sounds on a guitar. |
| Importance | Feedback experimentation is crucial for developing your own personal style and finding your own voice as a guitarist. | Guitar pedal feedback can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. |
| Practical Significance | Feedback experimentation can help you to find your own unique voice as a guitarist and create music that is truly unique and personal. | Guitar pedal feedback can be used to add a new dimension to your playing and experiment with different sounds. |
12. Feedback inspiration
Feedback inspiration is an important component of guitar pedal feedback. It is the connection between the many famous guitarists who have used feedback in their music and the development of guitar pedal feedback as a technique. These guitarists have inspired and influenced countless other guitarists to experiment with feedback and to use it to create their own unique sounds.
One of the most famous examples of feedback inspiration is the use of feedback by Jimi Hendrix. Hendrix was a pioneer in the use of feedback, and he used it to create some of the most iconic guitar sounds in history. Hendrix’s use of feedback inspired many other guitarists to experiment with feedback, and it helped to establish feedback as a legitimate musical technique.
Another famous example of feedback inspiration is the use of feedback by the Velvet Underground. The Velvet Underground were one of the first bands to use feedback as a deliberate part of their sound. They used feedback to create a sense of chaos and disarray, and it helped to define their unique sound. The Velvet Underground’s use of feedback inspired many other bands to experiment with feedback, and it helped to establish feedback as an important part of rock music.
The practical significance of understanding the connection between feedback inspiration and guitar pedal feedback is that it can help you to develop your own unique sound. By studying the techniques of famous guitarists who have used feedback, you can learn how to use feedback to create your own unique sounds and to express your own creativity.
| Feedback Inspiration | Guitar Pedal Feedback | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The connection between the many famous guitarists who have used feedback in their music and the development of guitar pedal feedback as a technique. | The use of feedback loops to create a variety of sounds on a guitar. |
| Importance | Feedback inspiration is an important component of guitar pedal feedback. | Guitar pedal feedback can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. |
| Practical Significance | Understanding the connection between feedback inspiration and guitar pedal feedback can help you to develop your own unique sound. |
Guitar pedal feedback can be used to add a new dimension to your playing and experiment with different sounds. |
Guitar Pedal Feedback FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: What is guitar pedal feedback?
Guitar pedal feedback is the process of using a feedback loop to create a variety of sounds on a guitar. A feedback loop is a path that the signal takes when it is fed back from the output of an amplifier to the input. The length of the feedback loop will determine the frequency of the feedback, and the amount of gain in the feedback loop will determine the volume of the feedback.
Question 2: What are the different types of guitar pedal feedback?
There are many different types of guitar pedal feedback, including ambient feedback, noise feedback, and distorted feedback. Ambient feedback is a subtle type of feedback that creates a lush, spacious sound. Noise feedback is a harsh, unpredictable type of feedback that can be used to add texture and interest to a guitar sound. Distorted feedback is a crunchy, overdriven type of feedback that can be used to add aggression and power to a guitar sound.
Question 3: How can I create guitar pedal feedback?
To create guitar pedal feedback, you will need a guitar, an amplifier, and a feedback loop. You can create a feedback loop by using a guitar cable, a delay pedal, or a feedback suppressor. Once you have created a feedback loop, you can start to experiment with different gain settings and feedback techniques to create your own unique sounds.
Question 4: What are some tips for using guitar pedal feedback safely?
Here are some tips for using guitar pedal feedback safely:
- Use a feedback suppressor.
- Turn down the volume.
- Wear earplugs.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
Question 5: How can I use guitar pedal feedback to improve my playing?
Guitar pedal feedback can be used to improve your playing in a variety of ways. For example, feedback can be used to create a sense of ambiance or to add texture and interest to a guitar sound. Feedback can also be used to create a variety of sound effects, such as a delayed feedback sound or a distorted feedback sound.
Question 6: What are some famous guitarists who have used guitar pedal feedback in their music?
Many famous guitarists have used guitar pedal feedback in their music, including Jimi Hendrix, the Velvet Underground, and Sonic Youth. These guitarists have used feedback to create a variety of different sounds and effects, and their work has inspired many other guitarists to experiment with feedback.
Guitar Pedal Feedback Tips
Guitar pedal feedback is a powerful tool that can add a new dimension to your playing. By understanding how to use feedback safely and effectively, you can create a wide range of sounds, from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. Here are five tips to help you get started:
Tip 1: Start with a low level of gain and gradually increase it.This will help you to avoid damaging your equipment or hearing. As you increase the gain, you will notice the feedback becoming louder and more intense.Tip 2: Experiment with different feedback loops.A feedback loop is the path that the signal takes when it is fed back from the output of an amplifier to the input. You can create a feedback loop by using a guitar cable, a delay pedal, or a feedback suppressor.Tip 3: Try using different pedals in the feedback loop.Different pedals can create different effects on the feedback. For example, a distortion pedal can create a distorted feedback sound, while a delay pedal can create a delayed feedback sound.Tip 4: Be patient and experiment with different techniques.There is no one right way to use feedback. Experiment with different techniques until you find the sounds that you like.Tip 5: Use feedback safely.Feedback can be a powerful tool, but it can also be dangerous if it is not used properly. Always use feedback with caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Conclusion
This exploration of guitar pedal feedback has illuminated its vast sonic potential, ranging from subtle ambiance to chaotic noise. Through an understanding of feedback loops, resonance, and feedback control, guitarists can harness this technique to create a myriad of unique and expressive sounds.
As we continue to delve into the realm of guitar pedal feedback, we encourage experimentation, safety, and inspiration. Experimenting with different feedback techniques, pedals, and settings will unlock a world of sonic possibilities. Safety should always be prioritized to avoid equipment damage or hearing loss. And drawing inspiration from renowned guitarists who have embraced feedback can inspire our own creative endeavors.
Guitar pedal feedback is an art form that transcends mere technicality, becoming an extension of the guitarist’s voice. By mastering this technique, guitarists can push the boundaries of their playing and captivate audiences with an unparalleled sonic experience.
