Monday, January 18, 2010

How do I get good controlled feedback on my amp?

I want to get it fairly controlled.... and as much as I can!How do I get good controlled feedback on my amp?
When you say controlled feedback, I'm assuming that you're referring to the technique where the acoustic output of your amplifier is exciting either the root note or a harmonic related to the pitch you're playing.





High gain is part of the equation. The compression that happens when a tube is overloaded is the other part.





Compression is a tool that's used in every recording your ever heard. Think of it as an hand on the volume control of your amp. It turns down the very loud parts and turns up the very soft parts. Technically speaking, it reduces the dynamic range of the signal, and helps it cut through a mix of instruments.





The other part of the equation is the acoustics of the speaker, the room, and the instrument itself. Different woods will want to feedback at different frequencies.





Position is not always directly in front of the amp (unless all you're looking for is a high pitched squeal). You'll probably need to face the amp, but changing the angle of the guitar in relationship to the speak can produce diffent pitches of feedback.





I had a chance to work on a local crew for a Santana show a few years ago. During sound check, Carlos would walk around the stage to figure out where different notes would feedback. He's have his guitar tech mark those locations with what notes for feedback there.





Short of volume/distortion/compression, there is a device called a Sustainiac that can be installed in your guitar to give you this effect. It replaces the neck pickup, and actually provides a magnetic drive signal to keep the string vibrating. This let's you get the feedback effect at any volume level.





http://www.sustainiac.com/





Finally, DO NOT use unpotted pickups. Unless, again, you're only looking for a high frequency squeal.





Good luck.





Greetings from Austin, Tx





KenHow do I get good controlled feedback on my amp?
Use a lot of gain, like a distortion pedal run into a distorted amp. Use an un-potted humbucker pickup. Stand with the pickups facing the amplifier's speakers. Get ready to look for a new place to live.
Low volume move body of guitar close to amp





Lots of highs and mid's turn the amp up till you get some :)





Enjoy!

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