Effects loop - warning another noob question

IceCreamMan

Apologies up front for a nother noob question.

Why is it better to connect effect pedals thru the effects loop on the amp than just connect in serial via the guitar?

Thanks

AlanRatcliffe

Think of the amp's preamp as a rather large and elaborate overdrive unit. As with a pedal overdrive, certain effects you want in front of the drive (compressor, wah, etc.), others you want after (harmoniser, delay, reverb).

I should also mention that instrument pedals often don't work in loops - unless the loop is specifically designed for use with pedals. Pedals are designed for instrument level signals (-20dB), while effects loops (and mixer sends) usually operate at line level (+4dB) - that is a power difference of 24dB, which equates to 8X the power (every 3dB is double the power, every 9dB is roughly double the volume). Rack effects units are usually +4dB and some modern amps have effects loops with adjustable level settings which let them work with instrument, domestic (-10dB) or line-level gear. When the RV-3 reverb pedal first came out, guys were blowing them up left, right and centre by running them on mixer sends (sometimes told they could do so by shop sales staff).

IceCreamMan

Thanks Alan

How would one determine whether the loop on one's amp is ok to run pedals through it and would it be better to be safe than sorry and if in doubt just hook them up via the guitar jack?

I have a 1980 Bolt 60 amp , info is scarce on these

AlanRatcliffe

If it doesn't say so specifically, the chances are overwhelmingly in favour of it being a line level loop (especially in a 25-30 year old amp). When in doubt, assume that all pedals have to go in front of the amp and only use rack gear in the loop.

IceCreamMan

Alan Ratcliffe wrote If it doesn't say so specifically, the chances are overwhelmingly in favour of it being a line level loop (especially in a 25-30 year old amp). When in doubt, assume that all pedals have to go in front of the amp and only use rack gear in the loop.

Learn something every day , in today's case a lot more than just one thing.

thanks muchly