How do i start implementing effects?

malunirvanafree · #1 03-15-2011, 09:49 PM

Well guys, here's the deal, I have been playing for about 5 1/2 years now, and i feel like i want to change it up a bit, so i dug up my Boss Gt 6b processor, and started messing around, but soon i got to thinking, about how i could use this when i play, I play for a church band, and we currently dont have a lead guitarist, so would i be taking that place? how do i keep the backbone bass sound if i am using effects??

Sorry if i confused anyone,
Thanks

malunirvanafree[k]

bongomania · #2 03-15-2011, 11:19 PM

You balance two things, equally valid:
1) What do you want to do?
2) What does the band want you to do?

Using effects is no different than choosing to play loudly, quietly, busy, sparse, in the pocket or all over the place. Effects just change the sound of your instrument. Do you like it? Does the band like it? Does it fit the song?

It really, seriously, is no more complicated than that.

malunirvanafree · #3 03-24-2011, 09:52 PM

well i guess to answer the first question , i really want to branch out and be able to groove with effects and sound good, second question the band doesnt really care what i do, as long as it sounds good. So would i practice to songs by myself or try with the band?

JimmyM · #4 03-25-2011, 03:13 AM

both, but mainly with the band. effects behave differently with the band, especially overdrive. takes a little getting used to. you can use recordings to try to get yourself situated so you don't waste a lot of time, but the only real way to make sure it works is to try it with the band.

Basehead · #5 03-25-2011, 02:57 PM

There are many effects in the GT-6B that can compliment your sound. I would start with subtle settings of Chorus for more chordal passages, Envelope Filter (Auto or Touch Wah on your 6B) if you do any slapping or fingerstyle funk, and Delay (slapback or short delay) to fatten up the sound.

If you start feeling more adventurous, try the Synth (love it!), Ring Mod (careful with this one), Harmonizer (you can get POG2 like sounds) and Pedal Bend.

The Slow Gear on the 6B can get that quasi-Cello sound, or combine with Delay for a bouncing bow/violin sound.

Don't forget about the Octave - playing notes higher on the neck with the Octave on gives a great sound and the 6B tracks well.

Honestly, there's few more useful effects in there - Tremolo, Phaser, Flanger. I don't use the Sound on Sound (wayyy too short) or the Auto Slap (really?).

Hope this helps...

StringThing · #6 03-28-2011, 09:47 PM

Get the simplest Boss loop station and lay down a bass line for yourself. Now your free to explore upper registers with all the effects you desire.

DwaynieAD · #7 03-29-2011, 09:01 AM

crank em all to max and go to town!

in seriousness I bring effects in when I need that something extra.

I hear a part my band is playing and I'm like "this needs something" so I think should I:

A) put lots of bends and slides in here (I love bending and sliding)
B) make up a cool bass run/lick to put here
C) try some chorus effect
D) try some octave effect

not necessarily in that order, but thats my thought process.
YMMV