Top 5 Reasons for Tone Suck

Today I'm identifying 5 main causes of tone suck and how to avoid them!
Tone suck can turn your clear, pristine guitar signal into a muffled-sounding nightmare, and guitarists do their best to avoid it all costs. However, it's hard to identify why and where tone suck becomes present in your rig. With these 5 tips, you can eliminate tone suck from your signal, and get the clarity of plugging straight into your amp (even if you're running through a boat load of pedals)!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
00:00 Introduction
00:18 What is Tone Suck?
01:13 Passive Volume Pedals
04:23 Too Many True Bypass Pedals
07:16 Too Many Buffers
09:20 High Capacitance Cables
11:44 Non True Bypass Pedals
13:40 The Solutions!
17:31 Overview/Conclusions
Greenhouse Effects Relay True Bypass Module:
www.ebay.com/itm/Greenhouse-E...
Dandy Whipple PCB for Vintage Wah Pedals:
bit.ly/3dpn9I2
Watch Brian Wampler's Video HERE:
• Non-True Bypass switch...
⬇️Private Tone Consulting from the Rig Dr. ⬇️
therigdr.com/collections/all/...
🔽Buy our Pedals/Pedalboard Materials🔽
Zip Ties: www.therigdr.com/collections/...
Tie-down Mounts: www.therigdr.com/collections/...
Velcro: www.therigdr.com/collections/...
Pedalboard Patch Cables: www.therigdr.com/products/pat...
Instrument Cables: www.therigdr.com/products/gui...
Pedalboards: www.vertexeffects.com/store#!...
VERTEX Pedals: vertexeffects.com/store
⬇ DIY BUFFER INTERFACE DIAGRAMS, TEMPLATES, & MATERIALS ⬇
Mono - vertexeffects.com/diy-buffer-...
Mono w/Tuner Out - vertexeffects.com/diy-buffer-...
Mono w/Splitter - www.vertexeffects.com/diy-buf...
Mono w/Audition Loop - vertexeffects.com/diy-buffer-...
4 Cable Method (FX Loop) - vertexeffects.com/diy-buffer-...
Wet/Dry - vertexeffects.com/diy-buffer-...
Stereo - vertexeffects.com/diy-buffer-...
🔻 //rig consulting//🔻
therigdr.com/collections/all/...
🔈 //podcast//🔈
Apple: apple.co/36dSQzK
Spotify: spoti.fi/2WGLku8
⬇ RECOMMENDED MATERIALS ⬇
some urls below contain affiliate links
//buffers//
Vertex DIY Buffers - vertexeffects.com/diy-buffer
Mesa Boogie High-Wire (dual buffer) - bit.ly/2lZwS0s
TC Bonafide Buffer (x2 input + output) - amzn.to/2vrTSug
Truetone Buffer (x2 input + output) - amzn.to/2NLDA8l
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Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 3 - amzn.to/3asqK6r
IEC Plug Covers - bit.ly/34fpGl3
//dc power cables//
2.1mm DC Power Plugs (right angle) - bit.ly/2pGqXzI
2.1mm DC Power Plugs (straight) - bit.ly/36wd1sA
Bulk Power Cables (pre made) - amzn.to/3ev1q0t
//midi//
MIDI Plugs (right angle) - bit.ly/2oKHDFG
MIDI Plugs (straight) - bit.ly/32fNNLF
MIDI Cable (bulk) - amzn.to/2tPAHWQ
//velcro//
Vertex Super Lock - therigdr.com/collections/all/...
//cable management//
Zip Ties - www.therigdr.com/products/zip...
Tie Down Mounts - www.therigdr.com/products/tie...
Tone Essentials Kit - www.therigdr.com/products/ton...
//pedalboard tools//
Soldering Iron - amzn.to/2TTdMI4
Solder (60/40) - amzn.to/2U7XhsD
Solder Dispenser - amzn.to/2GpgMpR
Octopus Arms - amzn.to/2V3O8OD
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Wire Strippers (20-10 AWG) - amzn.to/2EbhBR3
Wire Snips - amzn.to/2EazwqU
Vise - amzn.to/2E9eTLO
Heat Gun (embossing gun) - amzn.to/2BwGdlm
Label Maker - amzn.to/2BCBcHU
Label Maker Tape (black) - amzn.to/2Cd3CZe
Label Maker Tape (clear) - amzn.to/34piDD4
Deoxit D5 Contact Cleaner - amzn.to/2GEm4gu
Truetone Milliamp (mA) Reader - amzn.to/2F9v3VN
Tone Brush - amzn.to/2HIfze3
Upholstery Crow Bar - amzn.to/2HIOU0K
Multimeter - amzn.to/2YW9BdE
Goo Gone - amzn.to/31rGJeS
👇 // diy diagrams // 👇
DIY Power Cables: vertexeffects.com/diy-power-c...
DIY Interface: vertexeffects.com/diy-interface
DIY Buffers: vertexeffects.com/diy-buffer
#ToneSuck #GuitarPedals #RigDoctor

[@VertexEffectsInc]

What have you found as the biggest culprits for the dreaded "TONE SUCK"!? Tell us in the comments below!

[@guitarzan2979]

I’m running two tube amps so I have a passive Pyle Mini Hum Eliminator in my pedal chain to get rid of the 60 cycle hum. I do have a Polytune pedal first in my chain and it has a buffer. Any thoughts on if my hum eliminator is draining tone? After watching another Vertex Effects video on pedal boards, I think I need to add another buffer at the end of the chain. Thanks

[@RockyH.]

Hey Mason and Vertex my name is Rocky and I know you'll probably not read this but I'll give it my best shot I recently lost all of my gear and guitars they were stolen from me and to compound the problem I lost my mom shortly after now that I'm all alone I'm financially unable to even get a cheap guitar or kit into my hands. My friends and family they're just not able to help so I came to the KZbin guitar community I guess hoping for some charity or miracle it was a pipe dream I know but I'll put my pride aside I've played for 16 years and to not lose that I would beg if I had to many of the KZbinrs commented and told me that it sucked that I had lost my gear & guitars but, none was willing to help me and with that I have to give up playing after 16 years. Mason the reason I'm telling you this is I have to unsubscribe from Vertex and your channel man please don't be upset with me or offended it's not you or your content it's just like you know being at a smorgasbord and not being able to eat it just tears me up too bad I love your Dumble style pedals and stuff I was hoping to God I was going to be able to get my hands on some of those but, I lost everything and my playing to a thief that's life and unfortunately life isn't always charity Mason take care of yourself once again please don't be upset that I have to unsubscribe I do respect you and Vertex for everything and fir keeping my hopes up while I tried to get something to pan out man take care of yourself Mason I wish Vertex the absolute best and success your fan, Rocky Henson

[@gregmize01]

BY FAR MY ERNIE BALL VOLUME PEDAL JR 250K! I WAS SHOCKED AND SOLD IT IMMEDIATELY!!!!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@guitarzan2979 gates are bad for tone...not a good idea if you can help it.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@gregmize01 You could always use any VP with the Vertex Boost and it makes a passive VP into an active one.

[@HowardFrischer]

I’ve said this before and I’m going to say it again I’m always learning watching your videos.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks Howard! Thanks for all the support!

[@Ottophil]

I used to think buffers were bad not knowing that all true bypass makes for giant ball of sucked tone. Now I like to have buffers especially on the “ends” before going in or out of the amp/long cables. This is a great lesson everyone should learn. Can’t wait

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Buffer quality matters...a buffer alone, just any old buffer, won't be the same as another. High quality input buffer and output buffer is key and they need to be the right spec! 1M input impedance, 100 ohm output impedance.

[@130mMer5boc]

I know full well you've made another video about the same subject. I've got the material memorized. I care for my board and can make it better with your knowledge. I keep watching again and again and again. You're never boring behind that camera! Thanks.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching. I think this one explores more of the particulars for Tone Suck and some new solutions too :)

[@adrianr2312]

Great vid and even better information, Mason! Would love to see you install those buffer switches as you mentioned towards the end!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Great suggestion!

[@seankent1807]

Very helpful! I need to get one of your new Vertex Boosts for my pedalboard. As always, thanks for educating us, Mason! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Make sure to preorder while you still can at Sweetwater!

[@imalright2837]

Alway appreciated for the golden nuggets of gear wisdom! Thanks for taking the time to do these videos

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks so much for watching and the support!

[@dldavidmusic]

This is great info Mason! Thanks for putting this together. Always thought about what impact stringing a bunch of pedals together does to the signal. This really helps.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@DreCarvalho]

Very nice tips. Thank You Mason!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏 thanks for watching!

[@mateovicuna7640]

Such a precious information!! Cheers from Chile, love ur content!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching!

[@jackarmistead5353]

I’m at the point where I watch all of your videos, whether I actually think the subject is “for me”. I just learn so much every time that I can click on one of your vids with confidence that I will take something away from it. So thank you.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

My pleasure!

[@TheCryinguitar]

Great video and great subject, I recently purchased a pure tone buffer and it made a huge difference in my tone. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us. 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I’m so glad! Thanks for watching!

[@sun6moon9]

This is my new favourite gear channel! No Bs, no clowing. Just well presented wisdom being shared.

[@sun6moon9]

Ive been using my Tc Polytune first in chain, before my EB jr passive, in hopes that it would sort that tone sucking. Then i switch to plug the tuner into the EBall Tuner output. Now you teaching me i was better off like i was before. I Do have a digitech synth wah after the volume pedal, hoping it buffers it also. But maybe i m wrong. Great tips at the end. Very interesting kits. I run a 15 pedalboard with some TrueBP and Buffered ones. New pedals, and vintage pedals. So there must be some tone sucking for sure. Maybe i should put my EBall after the digitech and any other digital pedal as i tought all digital pedals have buffers on them. I probably will get a switchable looper. And your video on explaining looper and program. Loopers were really helpful. Just recently discovered this brand and channel and it looks very very promising. Keep up the great work, looking forward to hear more from Vertex fx. Ps: i am experiencing a strange behaviout on my wah...i changed its pot. the pedal worked for a week, No problem. Now, the pedal when engaged is silent (its TBypass)...but if I take it out of the pedalboard and and just plug it alone, it works fine. I am in the studio doing reamps for an album i am about to finish and need to solve this issue. If you have any idea of what it might be and can shed some light i would be much appreciated.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Awesome, thank you! If your TC Tuner has the buffer make sure that's engaged before the volume pedal. I think it's always a good idea to have high quality buffers first and last no matter what.

[@sun6moon9]

@@VertexEffectsInc unfortunately it is the previous version of the Polytune. I dont think it has a buffer. I am a newb so, my tought was that every digital pedal i have (if doesnt have a choice between true bp vs bufferbp like the DL4 line6) it should buffer the signal. Yesterday i compared the combo of having the tuner on the out of the Eball Vol versus having the tuner has my first in chain pedal. The difference was really subtle and it seemed more in amplitude that in high frew roll off. But yes good tip there! Thank you. Buffer as a exterior pedal i never tought much about but you make it reconsiderable.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

@@sun6moon9 it's a foundational piece that is really critical that most people overlook when spending big money on pedals. We have a few cheaper recommendations like the Truetone Buffer which is only $50, you'd need two but it's still great.

[@dvaoa]

Solid gold info, Mason, thank you.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for watching!!!

[@captainhotbunz659]

Just Subscribed, you are awesome dude!! Thank you, just bought the little black buffer

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks for the sub! Be sure to check out our recommended buffers in the description so you get one that's the right spec!

[@stuartchapman5171]

Just subscribed. You've got some really great content. My ears are beyond recognising different cable types. I'm not saying yours can't and I really appreciate the science based tech.

[@hafstrat]

Just took my maxon phase tone reissue off the board and I am amazed at the improved brightness!! Incredible. Asking you tube why, led me to this explanatory video. ❤🎸

[@jeremysmith9898]

you know you shiz bro, loving the channel!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Appreciate that! Thanks for watching!

[@scotthaggins]

Loved the video!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@markfarnsworth3340]

My man 😍 I’m learning more about how much I don’t know about my music gear in binge watching your videos today than I have in all my years of owning music gear and just playing around. Can I buy you a beer?!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks Mark! Glad you dig the content!

[@ReverendHellbilly]

Great video. Cheers

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks Reverend!

[@carpme]

My biggest culprit has been bad/cheap/high capacitance patch cables. Mason, I owe you a huge debt of gratitude for showing me the way with mogami 2314 and sp400. Thank you!!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes!!! Now you gotta get a good dual buffer!

[@carpme]

@@VertexEffectsInc That's my next project!

[@kostischaveles]

Your Videos are like PedalPorn to me, i always learn new things here,most valuable Chanell on the planet! maybe a "Tone suck" case would be dirt or corroded patch,instrument cables and pedals. Deoxit d5 for the win and maybe deoxit g5 gold for gold plugs. Cheers!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

DeOxit can really help

[@ReverendHellbilly]

I think bad power.We have learned so much from you bro.cheers mason

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks Rev!!!

[@acidfuzzpedals9986]

Excellent video on a topic where there seems to be a lot of confusion. Though not technically "tone suck" in terms of capacitive or resistive loading, your video reminded me of when Dave Phillips from LA Sound Design asked why I wired Doyle Bramhall II's Zoink with a grounded input when in bypass. Dave mentioned he didn't notice any additional noise without the grounded input on my full size Zonk Machine clone. One thing some don't consider in terms of "tone suck" in true bypass pedals is grounding the input of of the circuit when in bypass mode. Although your guitar's signal is not technically seeing the circuit when bypassed, the circuit is still energized when bypassed and can induce noise in the bypassed signal wires within the enclosure. This is especially true with high gain (fuzz) circuits when everything is in close proximity in a small pedal board friendly enclosure. In the case of circuits with oscillators, grounding the oscillator when bypassed eliminates any chance of induced tick in your bypassed signal. Though relatively rare the bypassed signal will have noise induced on it, it CAN and does happen. When it does, it can be a real wild goose chase to track down if you don't know where to look. Grounding the input of a high gain circuit when in bypass eliminates or at least mitigates induced noise on your bypassed signal. Grounding an oscillator in bypass always eliminates any chance of induced tick in your bypassed signal.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

There are several ways to do true bypass, the BEST of which grounds or shorts the circuit when in bypass so you don't get any risk of oscillation when the pedal is off. Often when I did build pedalboards for hire, I would convert pedals to this standard unless they were in a switcher. Yes, high gain circuits are more susceptible to this issue, also pedals that have internal clocks as well: chorus, phaser, flangers, to name a few - are also susceptible to this. We have another video that mentions this...not sure what the title was we've made so many, but basically something along the lines of "not all true bypass is created equally". Thanks for watching and for the comment.

[@mattg082]

Saw this tonight…I had only 3 pedals hooked up. One was the fuzz first which is true bypass, then a Jekyl and Hyde V1 and then a old DOD pedal last. When I removed the old DOD pedal which is buffered…my tone came back less muffled. I cleaned up this pedal and it sounded broke before. Got it in good shape, but it just takes off some of the clarity when off. I’m going to clean it up again and possibly put it first after my fuzz. Although it is a plexi drive type pedal. Not my preference to put a high gain pedal earlier before my OD. But it’s worth a shot! I don’t use it much but it’s there if I play something heavy. Honestly I think it may have some issues, as the light is still on even when you turn it off. So something is def up!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Hope the video helps!

[@christian_a_uk]

Great video Mason. For me, vintage pedals and cables have been killers over the years, especially wahs. Thx for sharing the knowledge 🙏

[@VertexEffectsInc]

My pleasure!!!!

[@stuartchapman5171]

One of go to pedals is the Digi-tech digidelay, all of my X-series and many dirt pedals of that era have 1meg input and 209hm output buffers. I have used them plugged in but not turned on to condition dinars in my sound design work. Piezo contact mics ideally want about 4meg to stop tone suck. 1meg goes a lot further in retaining the bass frequency response than many other modern low impedance devices.

[@homeworldmusic]

Nice one, thank you.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏

[@danriley903]

FAB VID! THX! :)

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏

[@nicolashauss4075]

During my internship at a recording studio, we troubleshot a guitarist’s rig : guitar direct into his amp sounded amazing but plugging his pedalboard made ALL of his high end disappear, like putting a low-pass at 1-2kHz Turns out it was one of those cheap patch cables with molded connectors that was the culprit. Felt especially bad since the guitarist had a great setup with vintage amp/guitar and cool pedals, and toured the world with it, only to be ruined by a single cable haha When I came home that night I threw away all my cheap cables and invested in good ones lol

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Now a good buffer might have eliminated a lot of that, but still good cables matter. Check out our patch cable shootout and see how the buffer impacts the overall tone and normalizes cables pretty well between the cheap and high end versions.

[@nicolashauss4075]

@@VertexEffectsInc will do!

[@GuitarJawn]

Tone Suck Sucks The worst is when you add a new pedal to your board and you can hear the different in the loss

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Typically this wouldn’t be a result of a true bypass pedal

[@colsontowingllc3309]

the docta tells all! thanks bro!!!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Thanks Colson! Thanks for watching!

[@abouc]

Awesome video. Is it bad practice to position pedals based on how you use them, vs where they are in the signal chain if it means having a few long (12" - 18") patch cables instead of 3" cables?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

That amount of cable length difference should be negligible. Shouldn't matter.

[@stephaneboile7920]

Another great video!!! Very very useful. Just one question: how to measure the capacitance of a cable or a pedal with a multimeter?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

It’s hard to do properly with ordinary instrumentation and the plugs also have a capacitance as well that you’d have to zero out to isolate what’s from the cable versus the plugs. Most manufacturers have a spec sheet that already tell You this.

[@YourHomeSmart]

Great video. Thanks for making it. You're a great communicator! I have 12 pedals in my chain (nothing vintage or Boss/Ibanez). Right up front is my TC Electronic polytune 3. In their literature they say the buffer in it will solve all of the issues associated with long cable runs. Do you know this to be true? Thanks in advance.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

That'll be fine, but you still need an output buffer at the end that's also high quality.

[@lefteriscomposer]

Thank you for you so informative channel! If one puts a good buffer - tc electronics polytune 3 (1st in the chain) and then at some point in the chain the dunlop volume X volume pedal, will this solve the problem of the volume pedal not sucking up the tone? Thank you in advance if you take the time to reply.

[@elysianfury]

I want that true bypass kit. Stick it in the battery compartment. Brilliant

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes, Greenhouse Audio sells them!

[@AntonovichHicksenbrau]

How you doing Mason? These videos are such a great resource for guitarists. Very much appreciated. I'm using a GigRig G2 in a Wet Dry Wet rig. My instinct is to use 3 Mesa Dual Buffers... - T

[@VertexEffectsInc]

The G2 has its own buffers. I don't like the output impedance of them but the input buffers should be fine. I would just use a separate output buffer or at least experiment with it to see if you notice an improvement.

[@fodaseodinheiro]

Great video doc! What about the tuner out on the switcher? Does it suck tone to?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Typically that’s a buffers out, so no

[@JC-xy3lm]

had to learned a lot today!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Hope it helped !

[@RandyFricke]

I run an always on compressor at the beginning of my chain just after the wah and an always on EQ (both true bypass) at the end of the chain for my buffering needs. You can't get any more "bufferlicious" than an always on pedal. The comp and EQ arrangement works perfectly for me.

[@nazimshah6582]

hi uncle mason….how about line level buffers after preamp type pedals? do i need buffers? are buffers designed for line level and guitar pedals the same?

[@michael_caz_nyc]

Recently I've been going: Suhr-Strat (Lollar pickups) > 10 foot Mogami-gold > 65 Princeton Reverb = phenomenal tone. I have an elaborate pedalboard, with high quality "everything" - but it's just Not the Same. It's close, . . . but there's something magical about plugging-it-straight-in.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

There are things you can do to really nail it - can be very specific rig to rig

[@ianhilvert1228]

I would love a video on installing the buffer switch into pedals!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Perhaps we can get Roy to send us a few :)

[@PLopGLop00]

A very interesting video again. About MXR pedals even with the actual line there is some of them that are described as "true hardwire bypass" (like the Micro Amp or the GT OD), but that's a pretty blurry appelation. Is that an in between bypass that is not true bypass but also not buffered ?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Newer versions are all true bypass, I'm taking about the original versions made in through the 1980's prior to Dunlop buying them out. Hardwire bypass is generally just another way to say true bypass.

[@KeithShelley1]

Great video! How can I measure the capacitance of my instrument cables? I spent quite a bit on them (worried I spent more on the brand name than anything else) but I can't find any specs on them online. Thanks again!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

The simplest way is to consults the spec sheet. Most brands have this. What's the cable?

[@KeithShelley1]

@@VertexEffectsInc it's the Fender professional series.

[@getvicky13]

I've got a Creation Audio Labs buffer inside my custom tele with Lindy Fralin humbuckers! Absolutely love it, and I love how the signal quality stays intact with all the highs. And yes, I tried a treble bleed cap mod and it didn't work so well for me.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

That’s great for the input buffer - you’ll still need an output buffer.

[@getvicky13]

I run an ampless rig, with my Atomic Amplifire. My signal chain is just guitar - radial instrument selector - EP booster - Atomic - FOH.

[@godlyk3]

Hey, I have seven pedals on my board and am getting decreased volume until I kick on the pedal in 6th position. Doesn't matter what pedal is in the 5th or 6th position. pedal board is as follows polytone 3 -> cry baby mini -> ibanez tube screamer mini -> 6 band mxr EQ -> green Russian big muff (mini version) -> Rowin noise gate -> neo clone. Any help would be appreciated. Both cables are monster,and patch cables are custom length.

[@danjack-son4871]

ABY switcher. Do I want a buffer or true bypass? I have some Boss Waza craft pedals before it.

[@davidb.8208]

Thanks for the tip on the tuner output on the volume output. I use the tuner output on my empress buffer. Do all pedals suffer from this tone suck?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

That should be buffered and split off the input buffer.

Hey Mason, thanks for the video, so insightful! Question: if I have a Fuzz pedal, should I put that first in the signal chain, then go into the TC tuner with bona fide buffer from it? I am also thinking of buying the Truetone buffer to close the chain off with, but I also have a KTR mid way through my signal chain. Should I set it to no buffer or put the buffer on and forget the TrueTone?Thanks a lot!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Paolo, I recommend using the KTR in true bypass... the buffer in it is poor and uses a TL072 IC chip which has poor output current and isn't really that stable driving long lines. Also, it's in the middle of your signal path, so any pedals after it that are turned on will defeat the buffer anyway in the KTR. I would recommend getting the output buffer.

Thanks Mason, so cool of you to reply and help out myself and the community with your knowledge. Appreciate it :)

[@user-cq8xi1uk4o]

Hi! Just seen your thoughts about capacitance of the cables and I've got a question: why does buffer weakens signal from 1 meg to 100 ohm, what's the purpose?

[@marcosimone2654]

Great video!! Would it be ok as well using a buffer as second/third pedal and second last on the pedalboard? (instead of first and last in the chain)

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I wouldn't recommend it if you want the best results from you buffer. Anything turned on after you buffer or before it can defeat it's effectiveness and loading and line driving ability.

[@AntonovichHicksenbrau]

@@VertexEffectsInc what about fuzz before the input buffer (and everything else) ?

[@jmaccess]

Good video. Question. If you have a pedalboard with a bunch of pedals, when all of them are turned on at the same time you don’t need (in that specific instance) a buffer correct?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Any device that’s turned on is a buffer at that point whether it is true bypass or not, however the quality of that buffer will vary greatly, some are OK, few are great. There are very few conditions or circumstances that I can think of where are you won’t need a high-quality input and output Buffer.

[@jeffrivera6]

is the ernie ball MVP volume pedal any near as good as the lehle? or at least is it a great upgrade from a passive volume pedal, not including the extra boost option, just as a volume pedal? thanks!!

[@leemichaels406]

Does the Boogie Mk III have a good buffer in the effects. I can find much on it. Thanks

[@feliperojas2550]

Very informative video, I really liked. But I don't know why at 10:10 it appears a GLS cable showing a 100pF per foot value, while on amazon it states a 38pF value... Did you guys measured the actual value?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I got this one about 10 years ago and got it specifically because it's got a lot of capacitance and is good for testing buffers. I measured it now it's a little under 97pF per foot including the connectors, so probably a little under that as most connectors have 10-20pF per connector or so.

[@felixbrunidor9294]

Does dunlop have a buffer..? Mine is dimebag bag wah on 1st signal..

[@gilbertsevdays]

i'm using boss gt-6 multieffects and it has volume pedal, so ur suggesting i just turn the EXP pedal off?

[@jmd12331]

Great content Mason. Thanks for sharing your expertise. I have two h9s at the end of my chain. I search for the input and output impedance. According to their specs it’s 600k ohms for the input and 470 ohms for the output. Would I be covered with a buffer at the beginning or do I still need one at the end after the h9s?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

This is a decent specification, but I wouldn’t call it great. It’s kind of somewhere in the middle between a really high-quality Buffer and something that’s more consumer level. You definitely still want an input Buffer

[@jmd12331]

@@VertexEffectsInc so, I can just go with the input buffer and let the h9s be the buffers for the output?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You can try it...they’re ok, not perfect

[@galantreentrant]

I use an EHX hum debugger to tame my tele’s really bad 60 cycle hum but it has an output of 750ohms instead of the 100ohms you recommend for a buffer. Should I put a bonafide buffer right before or after it? I’ve watched your videos and am also going to be putting another buffer at the very end of my chain as well.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

What’s the input impedance?

[@whazpoppin]

Damn Mason, there is not a single video of you where i didn‘t learn something. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge ❤️

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏

[@RobertBasilio]

I'm not saying the advice is bad (I'm definitely going to double check that I'm following these!) But I think the Ernie Ball MVP pedal you show at 1:34 is actually active.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I think it might have been an oversight by the editor - presuming from the side it looked the same as a VPJR.

[@mattmorgan2400]

I'd be curious about your suggestions for working with the impedance finickiness of a Fuzz Face. Obviously putting it first in line with your guitar straight in is ideal but I'm wondering if there are other possibilities to make it work better elsewhere in the signal chain and / or play better with buffers? Thanks for this video btw.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Input buffer would come after your fuzz of any impedance sensitive device.

[@balmoreruano2537]

Love the videos guys! I had a question about noise! Particularly with a compressor. I’m not sure if that’s just because of the way I’m using the compressor but it seems that I definitely increase noise when the compressor is on. Is there a way where I can still use the compressor but cut down the noise? Not sure if you guys have a video on noise but that would be an awesome series! Thanks!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Compressors add noise...think of it as an overdrive for your clean tone :)

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Yes we have videos on noise issues...see our Rig Doctor Playlist.

[@morrisgentry8624]

I put my Keely compressor (and MXR 10 EQ and Pigtronix Boost) in the send/return loop of my Boss NS2. Problem solved.

[@bobbarcus8310]

Good guy Thanks

[@VertexEffectsInc]

🙏🙏🙏

[@demetrioerrigo6314]

Great video. In my Pedalboard there are true bypass and non true bypass pedals, can I improve my tone using a dedicated input and output buffer or I don’t need one? This my chain: Fuzz germanium type Tu3 Clyde standard wah Dyna comp Marshall bluesbreaker mk1 Ts808 Vertex ultraphonix Vertex steel string Volume pedal boss fv 500 h Mxr carbon copy Strymon timeline Strymon flint Ditto looper

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Depends on if there stuff always on. If stuff is always on early in the chain the TU3 might be OK. It has a 1M input impedance but the output isn't great but that might not matter if you have a early pedal on often anyway. The Ditto has a 100ohm output Z as does the Flint, so you might be OK. I would focus more on high quality patch cables.

[@MYGAS21]

Thanks for the great info!....I start my pedal board S Chain with a BSS Audio AR-133 active DI-box. SO my FIRST QUESTION is: What is your opinion of the AR-133 as a buffer? Then the signal goes into a MORLEY 3 WAY SPLITTER ( I use a small yamaha mixer at the end were I mix my drum machine and drone textures, with at least three signals from my guitar that each ends into its own amp-cab modeler before they go into the mixer) SECOND QUESTION: I have experienced once the weird phenomenon of no signal coming out of the other two splitter outlets. How is that even possible? I have some more Q but will limit my questions to these two, for now at least. And will welcome any comments or suggestions on my set up... Thank you for your time.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Looks like 1M input (which is good for guitar), 600 ohm output (which is so-so). I would suspect that your splitter might have some issues with the outputs because the input signal is shared among them if it's a single input to three outputs. Could be the cables could be the jacks in the splitter, could be something else totally.

[@paulodantas1492]

I had a Behringher DD400 digital delay pedal that was the biggest tone sucker ever. Once I removed it from my signal chain I realized how it was lowering my volume and taking away some high end. Since then I avoid cheap pedals that probably have bad components (it may be the 6th cause for tone suck I guess haha).

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Some can be OK...just depends on the pedal.

[@ellich09]

where do i place the vertex boost before or after the volume pedal?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You put the VP in the EXP of the Vertex Boost.

[@KristofferGildenlow]

If you use a pedal pre-amp (bass) with XLR straight to FoH, would you still use an output buffer (say, between the last fx pedal and the pre-amp) or just an input buffer at the start of pedal board?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

No, if you’re going balanced you don’t need an output Buffer

[@wenzydemar4406]

Hi! Hopefully my question will be answered! What buffer would you recommend for someone who wants to go stereo?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

follow our recommended list and get two for the output one for L and one for R in addition to the input buffer.

[@wenzydemar4406]

Thx Masson! I have an MVP by ernie ball..and it's active..but doesn't work properly when i place my xotic Ep booster before it, Any ideas ?

[@lilybeejones]

Hey Mason! Appreciate the info. Was wondering about needing a buffer with my rig. I am using an HX Stomp XL. Majority of my pedals are in the effects loop of it, except for an EQD Arrows boost in the front. Do I put a buffer after the stomp? I could understand going through an amp, but would it get weird if I went direct with the Stomp? Should I have a buffer in the FX Loop since it's a 5-7 pedalboard that gets engaged?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I've not found the Helix products to be great buffers and historically have had to use external input and output buffers to make them transparent within rigs.

[@lilybeejones]

@@VertexEffectsInc I've noticed that already. So would a buffer after the Stomp work if I went direct to a PA?

[@jerrymartinez2160]

What are your thoughts on the Dunlop X volume pedals? Do they produce town suck as well? I have a couple striving paddles, and then HX stomp running through my board. Do those count as buffers? (I.e big sky, mobius).

[@VertexEffectsInc]

All passive volume pedals do, but I like the mechanical aspect of this pedal and use them often with our Vertex Boost as the EXP controller for the volume. They can be buffers, but those are all on the output, no input buffer in your list.

[@C3POBITCH]

a video on the true bypass mod would be much appreciated!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

The relay or mechanical ?

[@metalikero77]

@@VertexEffectsInc the relay switch plz, it would be so helpful

[@wenzydemar4406]

Great video! I've learned a lot! And i'm teaching others as well! I learn for free...

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@joshjenkinson1929]

The main reason for me is switches. They don’t last that many years of you gig a lot. I’ve replaced them many times over the years when I’ve suspected a worn out one and it makes a huge difference.

[@raminpartovi734]

Great video, thank you. So lets say you have a buffered looper and have all loops on. What does it do to the tone to have so many buffers on at once? Can't be good regarding tone suck... or do good loopers have smart non additive buffers in them? Anyone?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Presuming all the loop on but the pedals in the loops are all off so you're seeing all the buffers in series, it will depend on 1) the quality fo the buffers as there is no standard and also 2) the specs of those buffers in critical places like the input and output of the system. Generally it will add noise, attenuate your output, and not be great for the overall tone. If you turn on all the pedals and leave them all on, I don't suspect tone suck will matter much as it will be such a mess of sounds.

[@raminpartovi734]

@@VertexEffectsInc Thanks for your answer. I use the switchblade 8F which has a reputation of using good buffers. I shall measure the inputs and outputs though. In addition some of the pedals have buffers too. Guess I’m way overbuffered here, especially since buffers zap voice and I like to eliminate/ minimise them in my chain whenever possible.

[@waynegram8907]

Cheap wound single guitar pickups have more magnetic leakage, any reasons why? because most pickup winders say don't wax pot the pickups because this alters the resonance and sustain of the pickup but this also increases the magnetic leakage when not wax potting them. When positioning the guitars pickups at different angles away from the amplifiers power transformer this is called "diametrically opposed" to try to cancel out the hum getting induced into the guitars single coil pickups? Shielding a guitars cavity body and shielding single coil pickups is consider "diametrically opposed" to try to cancel out the hum and magnetic fields?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You're talking about using this vocabulary or the impact of the shielding having the same impact?

[@jamwayofaiken-augustarockb7643]

I've never heard anyone tackle the subjects that you tackled I had no idea any of this stuff existed I've been using a Boss GT 6 multi processor but I started watching JHS pedals videos now I'm starting my own pedalboard I started buying some pedals to start my own board I had no idea all this was so complicated

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Let us know if we can assist in answering questions - always happy to help!

[@ericklebba9307]

So what if I’m running about 18 or 19 pedals, and have a high quality buffer first and last, would another high-quality buffer, mid-chain be a good idea (like right before my passive volume)? Most of my other pedals are true bypass. I have a stereo Wet verb towards the end (that I think is buffered), and a EHX Micropog near the beginning (which I think is also buffered).

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Depends on what pedals are normally on. Some pedals have low output impedances that are already pretty good as it. What feeds the passive volume pedal is really the determining factor. If you think that the pedal that's on before it is too variable or too high, you could throw a buffer before it or use something like our Vertex Boost which the volume pedal loops into via the EXP loop and the Boost has a buffer to turn that passive VP into an active one with a buffered send/return.

[@joseagustinvillalobos5206]

I have a Fuzz factory clone which takes radio interference and is a also a tone suck. Is there any fuzz factory version that does not have those problems?

[@davidb.8208]

Would you recommend 2 separate buffers. 1 for input, then 1 for output. Or can you use just 1 with send and receive like the high-wire

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Either/or if the specs are right it won't matter much.

[@davidcosan]

What about using a Polytune 3 (that's buffered) in the input with any other buffer pedal output? Good enough or meh?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Depends on the specs as stated in this video.

[@razifraship]

Hi doc. What if my pedalboard is too congested and have to put the High-Wire in the middle (Example) where I can’t plug in/out cable straight, so I use junction box. Will that decrease the signal? Please advise.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You need it to be first and last to be effective. They also sell individual sections of the High Wire, called the Stowaway. This will allow you to put the input and output buffers separately for a better fit if you need that.

[@mikevanleeuwen2858]

Hello , I have a Pedalboard with 9 pedals . Most of them true bypass . One Marshall blues breaker ( not true bypass and not buffered … it has Some tone suck ) . First pedal is a mad professor royal blue od . This is a pedal that interacts with the Guitar just like a fuzz . It must be my first pedal for that Reason ( no buffer before it is the advise ) . Second pedal is a tc electronic polytone 3 mini with bonafide buffer . Can it be the second pedal or has it be the first because of the buffer at the beginning ( but that doe not work before the royal blue ) ? I also have a wampler boost wit independance buffer . For solo ( volume ) boost at the end of the chain . Will this work ? So , a buffered pedal as a second pedal and a buffered one as the last pedal ? Thnx . Mike

[@KlockoFett]

I'll step in here. Yes. You're fine. You want the fuzz/fuzz-like pedal to work properly. The buffer 2nd is close enough to buffer 1st in this case. The buffer at the end is where you want it as well. As long as it sounds good to you, then you're doing it right. 99% of the audience can't/won't be able to tell the difference, other musicians included. This is coming from a bass player, and everyone knows we can be psychopaths when it come to the minute details of our signal.chain.

[@KRIMIXATAKATT]

Thanks for sharing all the great tips Mason! A video about that true-bypass mod would be awesome,

[@VertexEffectsInc]

The Boss one or a standard 3PDT

[@KRIMIXATAKATT]

@@VertexEffectsInc 3PDT!

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I gave some good reference links for this, but not all devices will allow this particular type of switch to be used to, in particular the BOSS pedals

[@shin1719]

Can I use my Polytune 3 as buffer directly after the passive volume pedal for better tone?(The timeline is last in my chain right now)

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I would put it before the VP.

[@Danthehorse]

Mason, I am taking on your advise for input output buffers, but, how does one deal with pedals like a Lovepedal Eternity or Fuzzface that dont have their own i/o buffers and dont like any buffered pedals in front of them? Would I need to put those before the pedalboard interfaces input buffer?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I would put the buffer after any buffer sensitive pedals (input buffer) and then output buffer at the end of the chain.

[@Danthehorse]

@@VertexEffectsInc thank you very much sir.

[@nathanevangello3376]

are this pedals a good match? using as an input buffer a level set buffer by fender, and having an output one in a bonafide tc electronics buffer pedal... any help would be massively appreciated.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

What's the impedance? That's what matters, 1M input impedance, 100 ohm output impedance.

[@MESSEAGESENTBAND]

I have a question What about the digital pedals had a tone such?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

If a pedal has tone suck, it wouldn't be because it's digital.

[@thomasfokas]

How is the built in buffer in the MXR CAE Wah pedal? Is it high enough quality?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Pretty sure it’s just an impedance corrector for a fuzz to follow the Wah, not on unless the Wah is on.

[@demetrioerrigo6314]

am I ok with my boss FV500H after my distorsion if I have an input and output buffer? i use 2 tc electonic bonafide

[@VertexEffectsInc]

You can, it may just not be as optimal as the L version.

[@RodrigoBreckenfeld]

My first pedal in the signal chain is a Boss TU-3. Is it a good buffer?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

It's a Boss buffer...not ideal.

[@MikeMara]

I think I've had dirty switches that passed signal but there was significant loss, is that possible?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Maybe a failing Footswitch or dirty contacts yes, DeOxit it your friend

[@codymcgrew4015]

I use a Boss EQ-200 in a 4 wire method (One EQ going through the pedals, and One EQ going through the FX Loop). Is this pedal made appropriately for this? I believe the pedal is buffered.

[@VertexEffectsInc]

I haven't looked into the manual to see how it can be used or if pre/post is an option. If not, you could have an issue with a ground loop that may require galvanic isolation of the L and R channels. I also don't know if you can split the EQ L and R.

[@SabineRiverAuthority]

Do a video on what using a wireless input on the board dose to signal and tone, or if using a buffer or boost. Common affordable units like Line 6 G10 or Boss etc..

[@sparkyguitar0058]

I'm using a AKG wireless bug system going into board and Getaria 5.8 rechargeable wireless going to amp. The reason; I put my board on a stand to twist knobs on the fly. 12 pedals on board including 3 drives, 2 delays. I also bought a lot of used pedals most modded. My last pedal is a silent modded 10 band EQ. I actually have a dB-1 boost/buffer next to EQ but have the buffer turned off cause it doesn't change the sound in any way. I used EBS Gold flat cables on the whole board.

[@notorioustampaton]

Do modern MXR pedals still have this problem? I have a newer Dyna Comp, and now I’m wondering if I should chuck it?

[@VertexEffectsInc]

No, they're usually all true bypass. You can check the spec sheet to confirm.

[@SamuraiBud]

what do you call trebly thin and oversaturated tone that modulations destroy a distortion

[@VertexEffectsInc]

Huh?