Guitar Effects Pedals the Practical Handbook

So this morning, while drinking my morning cup o’  Joe, I was cruising around Amazon, and stumbled across the book titled “Guitar Effects Pedals the Practical Handbook“. Below is the official description of the book.

Starting with the dawn of effects building and continuing to the present day, this detailed compendium investigates effects pedals and how they can supercharge a guitarist’s sound. Experienced player Dave Hunter offers insight from the top builders and tips on how to get the most from each pedal. The author also dissects chains used by top guitarists in creating memorable recordings. The accompanying CD features standard as well as unusual sounds from a wide range of pedals, and classic combinations used by the guitar greats.

I do not personally own any books about guitar effects (though, I do have  a few on my wish list) but this caught my eye for several reasons.

Number one, I have a friend that is ‘fairly’ new to guitar playing is and is VERY interested in guitar effects, basically what they’re capable and what kind of options effects can provide him. I’m thinking this might be a good guide to help him understand the gist of what’s out there. (I still say the foundation starts with a good guitar and a good amp)

Number two, I personally think it’s interesting that the ‘quest for tone’ and finding that ‘unique voice’ is a desire had by every guitarist, while also the ability ‘clone’ others (ie: aquire the Hendrix tone, etc) is also there. I also think it’s interesting, I’m very guilty of this, to be stuck in a settings rut. Having pedals, and thinking it only sounds good when the knobs are set to X, Y and Z. Our ear is trained to hear what we like.. and what we’re use to. The application, the band, the guitar and the particular song can provide opportunities for absolutely crazy settings, but if you’re not willing to learn what your pedals are capable of (good or bad) how can you dip your toe in that particular pool?

Personally, when I see other guitarists and see their gear, I always pay attention to their settings (if I have the same pedal) just to see what they like and how they use it in their song. Is it a lead boost, do they use it as a rhythm fattener? Do they have the pre-wah or post-wah?

How well do you know your pedals?