Noisegate pedals
Noise gate pedals remove unwanted noise from your signal. They cut off your sound once it falls below a certain threshold. This makes your sound tighter and cleaner, especially when playing with high gain or using multiple pedals simultaneously.
Why noise gate pedals are useful
- You reduce amplifier and cable noise.
- You get a silent signal chain when you are not playing.
- You make high-gain rhythms tighter and more controlled.
How a noise gate works
The pedal opens the signal as you play and shuts it off when your volume drops too low. This way, only your actual guitar playing remains audible.
- Fast gating for metal and tight rhythms.
- Slower gating for a more natural progression.
Choosing the right noise gate pedal
- Choose a pedal with an adjustable threshold for precise control.
- Note extra options like attack and release if you want more flexibility.
- Check if the pedal has a send/return for better noise cancellation.
Tips for a quiet and tight sound
- Place the noise gate pedal after your drive and distortion pedals.
- Don't set the threshold too high or you will cut off natural sustain.
- Use multiple gates for extremely high-gain setups.
FAQ
Does a noise gate shorten my sustain?
If the threshold is set too high, yes. A lower setting will maintain your sustain.
Where do I place a noise gate in my effects chain?
Usually after drive and distortion pedals. This filters out most of the noise.
Is a noise gate necessary at low gain?
At clean or low gain, it's often unnecessary. The most noise is generated at higher gain.
Does a noise gate work with bass guitar
Yes, it helps keep low frequencies quiet and controlled.
