Choosing Your First Instrument｜Effector

This effect, created by pulses based on volume changes, was commonly found in vintage amplifiers. The effect varies depending on the signal waveform and the speed of change, ranging from a gentle effect to an intense, machine-gun-like effect.

While similar in effect to a phase shifter, it is circuit-wise a relative of delay. By applying modulation (creating a wobble by varying the delay time) to a short delay, it produces a more pronounced jet effect and stronger modulation-like tremolo than a phase shifter.

Similar to flanger, it applies modulation to a short delay to create a subtle shimmering effectEffector. Characterized by a shorter delay time than flanger, it produces a pleasant, refreshing effect. In recent years, digital products have increasingly replaced analog types using BBD elements.

As commonly known in guitar playing, this effect is achieved by oscillating the pitch up and down. Some devices achieve a similar auditory effect using phase shifter circuits or chorus circuits.

This is the so-called "echo effect." It adds a delayed version of the original sound. Various effects can be achieved by adjusting the delay time and the number of repetitions. Additionally, based on structural differences, there are types like tape echo, analog delay, and digital delay. Each possesses its own characteristic sound.

It can be hard to grasp the difference between delay and echo, but reverb refers to the "afterglow" or "residual sound." For example, that pleasant echo you get when singing in the bathroom is precisely the reverb effect.Originally, spring-loaded reverb built into amplifiers was common, but today digital reverb makes it easy to achieve a wide variety of effects like hall, room, plate, gate, and the aforementioned spring reverb.

Using a VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) circuit, it compresses (crushes) the sound as the name suggests, creating a sustained effect. Beyond just sustaining, it also uniquely shapes the moment the string is plucked (attack) and adds tension to the sound. Similarly, a limiter compresses the sound, but it specifically suppresses only the peak signals. It can be described as a more corrective Effector.In recording studios, rack-mounted units using vacuum tubes are the mainstream choice.

These devices reduce noise or shut off the signal when you're not playing to prevent noise from getting mixed in. However, they aren't perfect, so it's important to set them up without affecting the tone and, above all, to eliminate the source of noise like your guitar, amp, or shielded cable.

Available in harmonic and phase types, these enhance sounds that tend to get buried in an ensemble. Unlike equalizers, they minimally affect the original sound.

The most extreme Effector?! By mixing the built-in oscillator with the guitar signal, it creates unpredictable pitch shifts, generating unique sounds like ringing or metallic tones.

These recreate the sound of guitar amplifiers, making it easy to achieve a realistic sound for recording and other purposes. Well-known examples include Tech21's SansAmp and Line6's POD, considered pioneers in the field. The latter offers a wide variety of amp and cabinet types, allowing for meticulous settings, including mic placement and effects.

Reproduces the unique body resonance and harmonics of an acoustic guitar, transforming an electric guitar's sound into an acoustic one. Easily introduce an acoustic sound without switching instruments during live performances.

A pitch shifter alters pitchEffector, with its evolved forms including the "harmonizer" and "wah-wah pedal." Analog octave shifters cannot freely transform pitch and lack tracking stability, yet they remain popular for their distinctive, flavorful tone.

Originally developed for steel guitar players in country music, these pedals control volume through pedal operation. They also allow playing with a bowing technique, like on a violin, to eliminate attack and make the sound float.