As a guitarist, you know that sustain is an important aspect of playing. It refers to the length of time a note or chord lasts after being strummed or plucked. A longer sustain can lead to a more powerful and emotional performance, while a shorter sustain can cause your notes to fade away too quickly. There are many factors that can impact sustain, such as the type of guitar you’re playing, the strings you’re using, and the type of amp you’re plugging into. In this article, we’ll explore 9 advanced techniques to help you achieve the best possible sustain on your electric guitar.
1. Experiment with Different Types of Strings
One of the easiest and most effective ways to improve sustain on your electric guitar is to experiment with different types of strings. Different strings are made from different materials, and each type has its own unique tone and sustain characteristics. For example, nickel strings are known for their bright tone and relatively short sustain, while stainless steel strings offer a warmer tone and longer sustain.
2. Use a Sustain Pedal
Another simple and straightforward way to improve sustain is to use a sustain pedal. This is a pedal that you can press with your foot to sustain a note or chord for a longer period of time. The pedal works by sending a signal to your amp that sustains the note even after you’ve stopped playing it. There are many different types of sustain pedals available, so it’s worth trying a few different models to see which one works best for you.
3. Utilize the Right Pickup Settings
The pickup settings on your electric guitar can have a big impact on sustain. Different pickup configurations and settings will produce different levels of sustain, so it’s important to experiment with your pickup settings to find the best combination for your playing style and desired sound.
4. Increase the Volume and Gain on Your Amp
Another way to improve sustain is to increase the volume and gain on your amp. By doing this, you’ll drive the tubes in your amp harder, which will result in a longer sustain. Just be careful not to turn the volume up too high, as this can cause the tubes to clip, which will result in a distorted sound.
5. Use a Compressor Pedal
A compressor pedal can also help improve sustain on your electric guitar. This pedal works by compressing the dynamic range of your guitar signal, making the quiet parts of your playing louder and the loud parts quieter. This can help to even out the volume of your playing and make your notes sustain for a longer period of time.
6. Use an Overdrive Pedal
An overdrive pedal can also be used to improve sustain. This type of pedal works by overdriving the tubes in your amp, which will result in a longer sustain and a more powerful tone. Just be careful not to overdo it, as too much overdrive can result in a distorted sound.
7. Experiment with Different Amp Settings
The settings on your amp can also have a big impact on sustain. Different amp settings will produce different levels of sustain, so it’s important to experiment with your amp settings to find the best combination for your playing style and desired sound.
8. Play with a Heavy Pick
Another simple way to improve sustain on your electric guitar is to play with a heavy pick. A heavier pick will transfer more energy to the strings, which will result in a longer sustain. Just be careful not to use a pick that’s too heavy, as this can cause your playing to become fatiguing and make it difficult to play accurately.
9. Use High-Quality Cables and Connectors
The cables and connectors that you use to connect your guitar to your amp can also impact sustain. Low-quality cables and connectors can result in signal loss, which can shorten sustain. By using high-quality cables and connectors, you’ll ensure that your guitar signal is transmitted cleanly and clearly, which will result in improved sustain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sustain in guitar playing?
Sustain refers to the length of time a note or chord lasts after being strummed or plucked. It’s an important aspect of playing the guitar, as a longer sustain can lead to a more powerful and emotional performance.
How can I improve the sustain on my electric guitar?
There are many techniques you can use to improve the sustain on your electric guitar, such as experimenting with different types of strings, using a sustain pedal, adjusting your pickup settings, increasing the volume and gain on your amp, using a compressor pedal, using an overdrive pedal, experimenting with different amp settings, playing with a heavy pick, and using high-quality cables and connectors.
What types of strings are best for improving sustain on an electric guitar?
Different types of strings have their own unique tone and sustain characteristics. For example, nickel strings are known for their bright tone and relatively short sustain, while stainless steel strings offer a warmer tone and longer sustain. It’s best to experiment with different types of strings to find the combination that works best for you.
Can a sustain pedal help improve the sustain on my electric guitar?
Yes, a sustain pedal can be a simple and effective way to improve the sustain on your electric guitar. By pressing the pedal with your foot, you can sustain a note or chord for a longer period of time.
Can the pickup settings on my electric guitar impact sustain?
Yes, the pickup settings on your electric guitar can have a big impact on sustain. Different pickup configurations and settings will produce different levels of sustain, so it’s important to experiment with your pickup settings to find the best combination for your playing style and desired sound.
What is an overdrive pedal and how can it help improve sustain?
An overdrive pedal is a type of pedal that works by overdriving the tubes in your amp, resulting in a longer sustain and a more powerful tone. Using an overdrive pedal can be a great way to improve sustain on your electric guitar.
How can using high-quality cables and connectors impact sustain?
The cables and connectors that you use to connect your guitar to your amp can also impact sustain. Low-quality cables and connectors can result in signal loss, which can shorten sustain. By using high-quality cables and connectors, you’ll ensure that your guitar signal is transmitted cleanly and clearly, which will result in improved sustain.