I want to have an effects loop in my amp but Im confused about series loops, mixing loops, parallel loops, instrument level, line level and guitar level. What do all these things mean, and how can I get a really good loop for my amp?
That’s actually two questions. Regarding all of the terms, these are explained in detail in TUT and also in our FX-FAQ. Essentially, series loops place the effects in series with the whole signal somewhere in the signal chain. Parallel and mixing loops are the same thing, where the signal splits between the effects and a “dry” non-effected sound, with both paths mixed together. Guitar and instrument level means the same thing. This is the signal level you get directly from the guitar, and is about one-tenth volt. A line level is what is required to drive the power amp to full output and is typically one or two volts. It is also the level from a preamp output, naturally, as the preamp is what drives the power amp. As far as having a loop in your amp that can handle a wide range of signal levels, our Best All-Tube Effects Loop Kit (BFX) does it transparently while giving switchable series/parallel operation. Yes, you are adding a tube to your amp – which we assume has tubes already – but
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