Your Amplified Violin Not Working with Effects Processors?: The Problem is With Your Pickup! (UPDATE 11-2017)

This is an update of an article published in 2015. Introduction Many violinists with an “amplifier-ready” (i.e. has a pickup) instrument try to use effect processors to extend their sound palate. Effect processors are usually called “guitar effect boxes”, because such devices have historically been marketed to electric guitarists. In recent years, there has been a growing number of effect processors marketed for use with amplified acoustic guitars. Such devices are often referred to by their nickname, “stomp box” (referring to the way they are activated, by stomping on a switch with one’s foot). Many amplifiers come with a selection of common effects built into the amplifier housing. Widespread Mistaken Beliefs Study of a large number of discussion threads on online violin and fiddle special interest websites reveals that there is a lot of misinformation about violins and effect signal processors on the web. Widespread wrong information on the web?...say it ain’t so! Here are a few: Most effect processors do not work with violins. A bowed note is different from a plucked not and, therefore, somehow does not “track” with many effect processors. All guitars, regardless of their pickups, do work with most effect processors. Hopefully, this article can dispel these mistaken beliefs and set you on your way towards using just about any effect signal processor with your violin. Warning: You may have to get another violin. This may be the first time that many of you would have to spend serious money in furtherance of your art.... Read more →