What Exactly is a Guitar Noise Gate, and Do You Need One?
A guitar noise gate is like a silent member of the band, always working behind the scenes to keep the sound clear and free from unwanted noise.
The importance of a noise gate can't be overstated. It helps maintain a clean sound by reducing unwanted hum, hiss, and other background noise.
Unwanted noise can be a real nuisance for guitarists. The main causes are usually electrical interference and ground loops, but other factors include high gain settings on your amp and the use of certain types of guitar pedals, your guitar's pickups or the AC supply for your effects loop.
A noise gate is a type of audio filter used to control the volume of an audio signal. It operates by setting a certain threshold level of sound. If the signal falls below this level, the gate closes, effectively cutting off the sound.
There are two main types of noise gates: hardware and software. Hardware noise gates are often used in live performances, while software noise gates are typically used in recording studios.
In this article, we'll focus mainly on hardware gates, in the form of pedals.
Overview of Noise Gate Pedals
The history of guitar noise gate pedals is an interesting and important development that has greatly influenced the way that guitar and bass players approach their performances. The noise gate pedal was first introduced as a solution to the problem of rig noise, which can be a nuisance for high gain amp users who wish to achieve a clean sound. As guitar players began experimenting with different sounds and effects, it became clear that the noise gate pedal was a vital tool for achieving the desired sound.
The first noise gate pedals were basic and had simple noise reduction controls. Over time, improved technology allowed manufacturers to create more advanced pedals with better controls, such as threshold and decay. These controls allowed players to fine-tune the amount of sound reduction and the length of time it would take for the sound to decay. The best noise gate pedals now come with a variety of controls and features that allow for highly customizable sound reduction.
The compact noise gate pedal has become increasingly popular due to its small size and portability. It is the perfect option for those who wish to travel with their pedals or have limited space on their pedalboard. The best noise gate pedal for individuals with high gain amplifiers comes with a high threshold, which can be helpful for achieving the cleanest possible sound. The noise gate pedal is also ideal for those using chord stabs or other techniques that require quick and clean cuts in sound.
The introduction of true bypass technology has been a game-changer for many guitar and bass players. This technology allows for the elimination of all noise and other unwanted sounds when the pedal is bypassed. This feature ensures that the sound being produced through the pedal is as clean and crisp as possible.
TC Electronic and Electro Harmonix, for example, are two of the best-known noise gate pedal manufacturers in the guitar world. Both have been around for several decades and have experienced great success in creating highly effective and reliable pedals. The TC Electronic noise gate pedal features a single knob for determining the level of attenuation while the Electro Harmonix noise gate pedal has three knobs for even greater control over the sound.
Using two pedals, one for high gain and the other for clean sound, can be a great way to achieve the perfect balance between the two. A noise gate pedal can be an important addition to this set up, particularly for those using high gain amps or playing in environments with a lot of background noise. The best noise gate pedal can be a game-changer for guitar and bass players who want to achieve a clean and consistent sound, no matter where or when they are playing.
Understanding Noise Gate Pedals
The noise gate pedal is a compact device that you can add to your pedal chain. It works by reducing the noise level when you're not playing your guitar, controlling the volume of an audio signal. When the signal level goes above a certain threshold, the gate opens, allowing sound through. When the signal falls below the threshold, the gate closes, blocking sound.
Design and Construction
Most noise gate pedals come in a sturdy metal casing with one or two knobs on the front panel. The single knob is usually used to adjust the threshold level.
Noise Gate Pedal Controls
The controls on a noise gate pedal are typically straightforward. The main one is the threshold control, which sets the level at which the gate will open or close.
Compact Noise Gate Pedals
Compact noise gate pedals are popular due to their small size and ease of use. They're perfect for guitarists who have a crowded pedalboard.
The Role of Power Supply and Effects Loop
The power supply and effects loop can both contribute to unwanted noise in your signal. A well-regulated power supply can help reduce this noise, while using a noise gate in your effects loop can help eliminate any noise introduced by your other pedals.
Power Supply
A good power supply is essential for any pedalboard. It ensures that all your pedals get the right amount of power, which can help reduce noise.
Effects Loop
An effects loop is a series of effects pedals connected together in a specific order. Placing a noise gate at the end of this loop can help reduce any noise introduced by the other pedals.
Exploring the Pedal Chain and Ambient Pedals
The pedal chain refers to the order in which you connect your effects pedals. The order can greatly affect your overall sound.
Pedal Chain
The pedal chain starts with your guitar and ends with your amp. Typically, distortion and overdrive pedals go at the beginning of the chain, while modulation and time-based effects go towards the end.
Ambient Pedals
Ambient pedals, such as reverb and delay, create atmospheric sounds. These pedals often introduce a lot of noise, so it's a good idea to have a noise gate pedal nearby.
Understanding White Noise and Direct Instrument Tracking
White noise is a type of noise that contains all frequencies at equal intensity. It's often used in music production for testing equipment and soundproofing rooms.
White Noise
In the context of guitar playing, white noise is usually something you want to avoid. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor grounding, faulty equipment, and high gain settings.
Direct Instrument Tracking
Direct instrument tracking refers to the process of recording an instrument directly into a recording device, bypassing the need for an amplifier. This method can reduce noise, but it also removes the character that an amp can add to your sound.
Threshold and Decay in Noise Gates
Threshold and decay are two important parameters in a noise gate. The threshold sets the level at which the gate opens or closes, while the decay controls how quickly the gate closes after the signal falls below the threshold.
Threshold Control
The threshold control on a noise gate pedal adjusts the level at which the gate will open. Setting a lower threshold means the gate will open more often, while setting a higher threshold means the gate will open less often.
Decay Control
The decay control adjusts how quickly the gate closes after the signal falls below the threshold. A faster decay will result in a quicker closure, while a slower decay will allow the sound to fade out more naturally.
The Effect of High Gain and Modern Metal on Noise Gates
High gain settings and modern metal music often go hand in hand. However, these settings can introduce a lot of noise into your signal. A noise gate can help control this.
High Gain
High gain refers to the amount of distortion or overdrive in your sound. While it's essential for certain styles of music, it can also introduce a lot of unwanted noise.
Modern Metal
Modern metal is known for its aggressive, high-gain sound. Distortion pedals are often the biggest culprits when it comes to unwanted noise. They amplify everything...including noise. That's why a good noise gate pedal is crucial for keeping the noise under control in this genre.
Linearized Time Vector Processing and Attack Control
Some noise gate pedals, like the ISP Technologies Decimator II, use advanced technology like linearized time vector processing to provide smooth, transparent noise reduction.
Linearized Time Vector Processing
Linearized time vector processing is a technology used in some noise gate pedals. It allows the pedal to respond more accurately to the input signal, resulting in smoother gating action.
Attack Control
The attack control on a noise gate pedal adjusts how quickly the gate opens when the signal level goes above the threshold. A faster attack results in quicker opening, while a slower attack allows the sound to fade in more naturally.
AC Supply, EQ Settings, and LED Indicator
The AC supply, EQ settings, and LED indicator are all factors that can affect the performance of your noise gate pedal.
AC Supply
A clean, stable AC supply is essential for reducing noise. If your AC supply is noisy, it can introduce hum and other unwanted sounds into your signal.
EQ Settings
The EQ settings on your amp can also affect the amount of noise in your signal. For example, boosting the high frequencies can increase the amount of hiss.
LED Indicator
An LED indicator on a noise gate pedal lets you know when the effect is engaged. This is useful for troubleshooting and for making sure the pedal is working correctly.
Additional Terms and Considerations
Signal Chain
The signal chain refers to the path that the audio signal takes from your guitar to the amp. Noise gates can be placed anywhere in the signal chain, but they're usually put towards the end to catch any noise that other effects may introduce.
Signal Falls
A signal fall occurs when the level of the audio signal drops below the threshold set on the noise gate. When this happens, the gate closes, cutting off the sound. Understanding how a noise gate responds to signal falls can help you get the most out of your pedal.
Single Coil Pickups
Single coil pickups are known for their bright, clear tone. However, they can also produce a lot of unwanted hum, which is where a good noise gate pedal comes in handy.
Top 5 Best Guitar Noise Gate Pedals
Here are our top five picks for the best noise gate pedals:
Boss NS-2
This is a versatile noise gate pedal that offers two modes of operation: reduction and mute. It also includes an LED indicator to show when the effect is engaged. It offers excellent control over signal falls, and has a smooth gating action that doesn't affect the natural decay of your playing.
TC Electronic Sentry
With its three-knob interface and multiband technology, this pedal provides precise noise gating for both guitar and bass.
Donner Noise Killer
This incredibly affordable pedal offers a simple layout with a Hard/Soft switch, a single Threshold knob, and a true bypass feature to ensure a clean, unaltered tone when the effect is disengaged.
MXR M135 Smart Gate
This pedal stands out with its smart gate technology, which adjusts the gating based on your playing style.
ISP Technologies Decimator II
Known for its linearized time vector processing, this pedal provides smooth, transparent noise reduction.
FAQs About Noise Gate Pedals
What is a guitar noise gate?
A guitar noise gate is a device that reduces unwanted noise in your guitar signal. It works by setting a threshold level of sound, and cutting off the sound when the signal falls below this level. When the gate closes, it cuts off the sound. This can be a sudden cut-off, or it can be a gradual fade-out, depending on the settings on your noise gate pedal.
Where should I place my noise gate in the signal chain?
Noise gates can be placed anywhere in the signal chain, but they're usually put towards the end to catch any noise that other effects may introduce.
What is the difference between a hardware noise gate and a software noise gate?
Hardware noise gates are physical devices that are often used in live performances, while software noise gates are virtual devices that are typically used in recording studios.
Can a noise gate remove all unwanted noise?
While a noise gate can significantly reduce unwanted noise, it may not be able to remove all noise completely. It's best used in conjunction with other noise-reducing techniques.
Does a noise gate affect tone?
A good noise gate should not affect your tone when used correctly. However, if the threshold is set too high, it can cut off your sound prematurely and affect your playing dynamics.
Can I use a noise gate with other effects pedals?
Yes, a noise gate can be used with other effects pedals. In fact, it's often necessary to use a noise gate when using certain types of pedals, like distortion and overdrive, that can introduce a lot of noise.
What does the threshold control on a noise gate do?
The threshold control on a noise gate adjusts the level at which the gate will open or close. A lower threshold means the gate will open more often, while a higher threshold means the gate will open less often. Setting the threshold correctly is crucial for effective noise gating.
What is the difference between "soft mode" and "hard mode" on a noise gate?
"Soft mode" provides a more gradual gating effect, which can be useful for softer playing styles. "Hard mode", on the other hand, provides a more abrupt gating effect, which can be useful for heavier playing styles.
What is "white noise"?
In the context of guitar playing, white noise is unwanted noise that contains all frequencies at equal intensity. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor grounding, faulty equipment, and high gain settings.
What is a "smart gate"?
A smart gate is a type of noise gate that adjusts its response based on the input signal. This allows it to provide effective noise reduction without affecting the natural attack of your playing
Summary of Noise Gate Pedals
Unwanted hum is a common problem for guitarists, especially those who use high-gain settings. It can be caused by several factors, including electrical interference and ground loops.
A noise gate can be a useful tool for any guitarist. By understanding how it works and how to use it effectively, you can significantly reduce unwanted noise and improve the overall quality of your sound.
Whether you're playing live or recording in the studio, a good noise gate can make a world of difference. Once again, here are our favorites:
Best Overall: Boss NS-2
Best for Fine-Tuning: TC Electronic Sentry
Best Budget Option: Donner Noise Killer
Best Smart Gate Option: MXR M135 Smart Gate
Best for Transparency: ISP Technologies Decimator II
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