Modern music is synonymous with innovation. Innovative players at the forefront of the music world are constantly testing and expanding the boundaries, blending old traditions with cutting-edge technology. One of the most intriguing and exciting advancements is the guitar synthesizer, a revolutionary device that gives guitarists access to sounds and sonics once never imagined.
The guitar synth isn't simply another instrument, it's a gateway to uncharted sonic territories that any player can walk through. Whether you’re crafting ambient soundscapes, composing cinematic scores, or experimenting with futuristic tones, the guitar synthesizer can help you reimagine what the guitar can do. Here, we can explore it together, understanding what it is and how it works, musicians who are using it, and how you can start incorporating them into your own art.
What is a Guitar Synthesizer?
A guitar synthesizer is a small electronic device that guitarists attach directly to the body of their guitar. Once attached, the synthesizer converts the guitar’s analog string vibrations into digital signals, allowing it to produce an entire galaxy of synthesized sounds such as strings, brass, bass, pianos, and electronic effects. While traditional synthesizers are most often played on keyboards, guitar synths give players the ability to create the same types of soundscapes and effects by strumming, plucking, and soloing on their guitar.
By using sensors or a specialized MIDI pickup, the synth device can detect the pitch and dynamics of each string. These signals are then routed through a synthesizer module or software, which generates the desired sound. Players can then manipulate sound and effect parameters like pitch, modulation, and filters in real-time on the device's interface.
Today’s guitar synthesizers, such as the Roland GR series or Fishman TriplePlay, can connect directly to a digital audio workstation (DAW), giving players a universe of sounds and effects to utilize. Connecting to a DAW also allows players to seamlessly track, record, and edit the music they make with their synth.
Guitar Synths in Modern Music
Guitar synthesizers hold the power to unlock sounds and sonic textures not available on any kind of traditional guitar. Guitarists can now add shimmering string sections, deep synth bass lines, and electronic arpeggios to their music - all without having to switch instruments.
The guitar synth has become a staple instrument in genres like progressive, psychedelic, and experimental rock. It has also found a home in ambient and electronic music, art rock and jazz fusion acts, and even pop. There really aren't many genres of music today where the guitar synth would feel out of place.
Incorporating the guitar synthesizer into live and recording music isn't solely a modern practice. Famous guitarists like Robert Fripp of King Crimson and Pat Metheny have used guitar synthesizers to craft unique tonal landscapes in their progressive rock and jazz fusion outfits. Alex Lifeson of the rock band Rush used guitar synths to complement the band’s intricate arrangements for decades, particularly in albums like Signals and Grace Under Pressure. Steve Hackett of Genesis fame has brought orchestral and atmospheric elements into his solo work and collaborations using the guitar synth.
As modern technology and innovation have pushed the musical landscape ever forward, the guitar synthesizer has grown in popularity and prominence alongside it. Some of music’s biggest names utilize the guitar synth in their work, both in the studio and in live settings. U2’s The Edge, known for his atmospheric and ethereal playing, has integrated guitar synths into the band's sound for decades, especially during their more experimental records in the 1990s. Radiohead’s Jonny Greenwood is notorious for pushing the needle forward when it comes to bridging experimental soundscapes with popular music. He frequently uses the guitar synth to add lush and experimental sonics to the band’s songs such as “Go to Sleep” and “Everything in its Right Place.” Matt Bellamy of the band Muse has used guitar synthesizers, such as the Manson MB-1 with a built-in MIDI controller, to craft futuristic tones in Muse’s arena rock and electronic compositions.
Incorporating the Guitar Synth into Your Own Music
Whether you’re looking to add more diversity and flexibility to your live performances, bring new creativity to your writing and recording sessions, or both, incorporating the guitar synth can truly be a game changer.
When it comes to live performance as a solo guitarist or in a band, guitar synthesizers will bring unparalleled flexibility. A single guitar can now replicate an orchestra, emulate keyboard lines, or add dynamic sound effects, reducing the need for multiple instruments or additional players. Guitarists can seamlessly switch between traditional and synthesized tones mid-performance, elevating their stage presence.
Guitar synths can also generate new and exciting ideas for musicians not possible on a standard guitar. With access to an array of sounds and textures, experimentation is not only possible - but encouraged. Songwriting can become a more adventurous process, with the guitar acting as both a melodic instrument and a sound-design tool. From ambient textures to dynamic solos and everything in between, the guitar synth can bring your playing to brand new heights.
Synth Tips to Get Your Started
If you’re starting to think the guitar synth is right for you, here are some tips to help you on your new sonic journey:
- Practice, practice, practice! Like all new instruments, the guitar synth has a large learning curve at first. Take the time to understand and get a feel for how it works. In time, you’ll be amazed at the sounds you’re creating.
- To ensure seamless integration, balance the volume of your synth sounds with your natural guitar tone. Tools like the Stems VST plugin can help analyze and balance your track for clarity.
- Try a hybrid setup by combining your natural guitar tone with synthesized sounds. This effect will retain the guitar's personality while adding layers of complexity.
- Spend time experimenting with different synth sounds to find the tones that compliment your music. Most guitar synths come with editable patches that allow you to fine-tune parameters like attack, sustain, and modulation.
- You can also use the Moises AI Mastering and analysis features to help refine any guitar synth tracks you record. This will ensure they blend perfectly with the rest of your mix.
##The Future of Guitar Synth is Now For guitarists ready to push their boundaries, the guitar synthesizer is not just an instrument—it's a gateway to uncharted sonic territories. Whether you’re crafting ambient soundscapes, composing cinematic scores, or experimenting with futuristic tones, the guitar synthesizer can help you reimagine what the guitar can do.
●●●Written by Jesse Stanford, Company Cue
