How to Use the Equalizer on Guitar Amps

Guitar amps have equalizers that consist of a treble, middle and bass knobs and you can adjust these knobs to produce certain tones. This discusses how to use the equalizer on guitar amps to achieve a pleasing, neutral sound.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Locate the treble, middle and bass knobs on your guitar amp. These knobs are what you will turn to equalize the sound that comes out of your amplifier. You will see that the numbers on each knob range from 0 to 10.
2. Turn all equalizer controls so that they point midway. Most guitar amps produce a quality sound in the midrange, but you can easily adjust the tone by turning the dials up or down until it sounds right to you.
3. Set the middle control on the amp by adjusting the dial a little past the midway. This is the basis of the guitar's tone and what makes it possible to hear the guitar in a group setting.
4. Adjust the bass control. If you turn it down too low, the amp will distort the low notes on the guitar. If you turn it up too high, however, you will produce a shrill tone. If you are playing with a group, turn down the bass on your amp and let the bass guitar do its job.
5. Tune the treble after both the middle and bass controls have been set. The treble is what gives the guitar its warmth. Not enough treble causes a muddled sound, but too much treble produces a flat tone.

Tips & Warnings

• If you find that you cannot hear your guitar when playing in a group setting, try adjusting the "middle" knob as a substitute for turning up the volume control.
• Because there are many different types of guitars and the style and sound is subjective, you should always adjust the settings according to what sounds best to your ear and for what type of music you are playing.