How to Use Built-in Distortion Effects on Guitar Amps

Guitar amplifiers come with dual channels for sound: clear and distortion effects. Amplifiers receive the audio signal from the guitar and either send it straight through or alter it. Distortion effects can be created in several ways, but each distortion-creation method must travel through the amplifier's distortion channel.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Examine the amplifier carefully. Although not all amplifiers are constructed in the same way, there are some common characteristics.

2. Find the button on the front of the amplifier which has a "distortion" setting. This button could either be glowing or not depending upon the amplifier model.

3. Switch the button over to the distortion setting. The amplifier is now ready to receive a distorted audio signal from the guitar.

4. Look at the back of the amplifier. Find the RCA-type plug-in for a foot pedal distortion device.

5. Plug in the distortion pedal and switch it on to create a distortion signal. Use the foot pedal whenever you want to switch over to a distortion effect.