guitar

  1. TECH TIPS: Big Boy Mic Techniques

    So you have the perfect guitar (or guitars), a kick-ass amp, a cabinet with bitchin’ tone and the latest sound processors. Now what do you have to do to get all of that tonal goodness out to the audience? Do what the pros do, and we’ll show you how. In a live mic’ing situation, begin by placing the mic in...
  2. TECH TIPS: Tone Terminology

    In this article, I’m addressing a topic often asked about. It’s one that often causes confusion, and to be honest, it’s always difficult explaining. When speaking about tone, we all have become accustomed to many familiar terms, but what do they mean? When speaking about tone rather than hearing it, descriptive terms are crucial for conveying our thoughts. I’m not...
  3. TECH TIPS: Pickups, Hot or Not?

    Some pickups are “hotter” than others. But what does this mean? Does it mean that these pickups will push an amplifier harder, resulting in more gain and volume? Yes. Does it mean that these pickups will impart a warmer, fuller tone? Generally, yes. But why is this? And how do you make a pickup hotter? And how does DC resistance...
  4. TECH TIPS: Breaking In Your Speakers

    So, you love your buddy’s tone and really dig the speakers he’s been playing for the past six months! You go out and buy the very same speakers, put them in nearly the same rig, but it just doesn’t sound the same. Your dilemma is not uncommon. Many variables could be responsible for such a situation, but most likely it...
  5. TECH TIPS: Pedal Troubleshooting & Maintenance 101

    Most guitarists spend the majority of their time learning, practicing and performing with their instrument. This is as it should be. But if you play an electric, then a certain amount of time and attention is required to optimize your gear. Working all the knobs and switches is one thing, but occasionally more than basic operation will be required, especially...