Connecting and Wiring a Preamp Pedal

Although each guitar preamp pedal is designed quite uniquely from one another, they do have one common function and that is to enhance guitar effects, volume and quality. The information below talks about how the preamp pedal is connected and wired to other electrical components and gadgets.

Connecting a Guitar

The device is best used for electric guitars and not for acoustic guitars. To connect the guitar to the pedal, one needs to have a guitar cable with two jack plugs on both ends. The length of the cable may vary depending on the preference of the user or the requirements onstage. Connect one plug to the input plug-in on the guitar, and the other plug to the input plug-in on the pedal.

Connecting the Pedal to a Guitar Amp, Speakers, or Stage Boxes

The pedal can come either with a single jack output plug-in or with an additional XLR output plug-in. Both of these outputs can be used simultaneously if required, but using one is sufficient. Since both outputs are derived from one source of input, the signal quality they send out to speakers are the same. In order to connect the pedal to the speakers or any other output device, simply plug one end of the cable into any of the output plug-ins and connect the other end into the input plug-ins on the output devices. While the jack output can be used for amplifiers and speakers, the XLR can be used for stage boxes.

Wiring the Pedal to an Electric Outlet

To connect the device to any type of AC adaptor, make sure to buy one that has an auto sense function. This function allows it to adapt to any polarity circuit. If the pedal does not have this capability, then make sure to stick to the recommended AC adapter or battery. When opting to use batteries, open the battery enclosure and insert the batteries required. If the device has an AC adapter, plug that adapter to a power outlet. Keep in mind that the device may not turn on unless an input plug is inserted into the input plug-in.

Testing the Connection

Make sure that the amplifier or speakers are turned on. Inspect the pedal if it is working. It usually has an LED to signal to the user that its effects are activated. Make sure that all cables are plugged completely and correctly. Step on the pedal to activate the effects and strum or pluck the guitar. Take note that the guitar amplifier effects will be by passed by the effects of the preamp pedal, but do not worry. This is completely normal because the pedal now acts as the central effects control.

To turn on the volume, the bass, treble or gain, simply maneuver the controls on the device until the desired effects are achieved. When turning off the device. Turn off the speakers first, remove the power plug, and detach all cables.