How to Get a Synth Sound on the Guitar

Ever thought your guitar could do more than just shred or chug? Maybe you’ve listened to bands like Muse or Radiohead and wondered how they get those synth-like sounds on a guitar. Well, you’re in luck. Today, we’ll explore how to transform your guitar into a synth machine, adding a whole new dimension to your playing. Whether you're playing metal, alternative, or just jamming in your bedroom, this guide will show you how to achieve that futuristic tone.

The Magic of Effects Pedals

Let’s kick things off with the most straightforward approach: effects pedals. They’re the unsung heroes of any guitarist looking to broaden their sound palette. If you’ve ever seen a guitarist with a pedalboard that looks more like a spaceship control panel, you're halfway there. Effects pedals can drastically alter your guitar’s tone, and some are specifically designed to emulate synth sounds.

One popular choice is the Electro-Harmonix Synth9, which offers a range of synth sounds straight out of the box. It’s like having a mini synthesizer at your feet. Other noteworthy pedals include the Boss SY-1 Synthesizer and the Electro-Harmonix POG series, which can create polyphonic octave and organ sounds.

• Experiment with the settings: Most synth pedals have a range of settings that allow you to tweak the sound to your liking.
• Stack pedals: Combine synth pedals with other effects like delay, reverb, or modulation to create a more layered sound.
• Play with dynamics: Synth pedals often respond differently to attack and volume, so experiment with how you play to get different tones.

Using pedals is a great way to dip your toes into synth sounds without diving into more complex setups. Plus, you can always switch them off when you want to return to your classic guitar tone.

Exploring the World of MIDI Pickups

If you're ready to step up your synth game, MIDI pickups might just be what you're looking for. These little gadgets can turn your guitar into a MIDI controller, allowing you to trigger synth sounds directly from your guitar. Think of it as transforming your guitar into a more versatile instrument.

The Roland GK-3 is a popular choice among guitarists. It attaches to your guitar and sends MIDI signals to a sound module, such as the Roland GR-55. This setup lets you access a wide range of sounds, from vintage synths to modern electronic tones.

Here’s how you can get started with MIDI pickups:

• Install the pickup: This usually involves attaching the pickup to your guitar and connecting it to a sound module.
• Choose your sounds: MIDI pickups offer a range of synth sounds, so explore what’s available and find what suits your style.
• Experiment with controls: MIDI pickups often come with additional controls, like pitch bend or modulation, to further shape your sound.

While MIDI pickups require a bit more setup than pedals, they offer unparalleled flexibility and a vast library of sounds. Perfect for those who want to fully integrate synth tones into their guitar playing.

Using a Guitar Synth

For those who want to go all-in, dedicated guitar synths provide an integrated solution. These devices combine the features of a synth pedal and a MIDI pickup, offering a complete package for synthesizer sounds on guitar.

The Boss GP-10 is a standout model, offering a range of synth sounds along with amp modeling and effects. It’s like having a multi-effects processor with synth capabilities. Another option is the Line 6 Helix, which offers a comprehensive suite of sounds and effects, including synth emulations.

Here’s how to make the most of a guitar synth:

• Explore presets: Most guitar synths come with a variety of presets that showcase the device’s capabilities.
• Create your own patches: Dive into the settings and craft your own sounds by combining different elements.
• Layer sounds: Many guitar synths allow you to layer sounds, combining synth tones with your natural guitar sound.

Guitar synths are ideal for players who want an all-in-one solution. They offer a vast array of sounds and effects, all in a single device, making them perfect for live performances and studio sessions alike.

Integrating Software Synths

If you’re tech-savvy and enjoy working with computers, software synths can open up a world of possibilities. With software like Native Instruments’ Kontakt or Arturia’s V Collection, you can access thousands of synth sounds and play them using a MIDI-equipped guitar.

To get started with software synths:

• Set up your gear: You’ll need a MIDI-capable guitar or a MIDI pickup, along with a computer and audio interface.
• Choose your software: There are plenty of options available, from free synth plugins to professional-grade software.
• Explore the possibilities: Software synths offer endless sound-shaping capabilities, so take your time to explore and experiment.

While software synths offer incredible versatility, they require a bit more setup and technical know-how. But if you’re willing to invest the time, they can provide an unrivaled range of sounds.

Blending Synth and Guitar Sounds

One of the most exciting aspects of creating synth sounds on guitar is the ability to blend them with your natural guitar tone. This can create a rich, layered sound that’s perfect for adding depth and complexity to your music.

Here are some tips for blending synth and guitar sounds:

• Use an effects loop: Many amps and multi-effects units allow you to route your synth sounds through an effects loop, keeping them separate from your guitar tone.
• Adjust the mix: Most synth pedals and units allow you to adjust the mix between the synth and guitar sounds, so experiment to find the right balance.
• Consider stereo output: Using stereo output can add spatial dimension to your sound, especially when combining synth and guitar tones.

Blending synth and guitar sounds can create a unique sonic signature that sets your music apart. It’s all about finding the right balance and crafting a sound that suits your musical style.

The Role of Technique

Getting a synth sound on the guitar isn’t just about gear; technique plays a crucial role too. Synth sounds often involve smooth, fluid playing, so focusing on technique can help you achieve the desired effect.

Here are some techniques to consider:

• Legato playing: Synth sounds often benefit from smooth, connected notes, so practice your legato technique to get that seamless sound.
• Sweep picking: While commonly used in metal, sweep picking can also create a synth-like arpeggiated sound.
• Volume swells: Using the volume knob or a volume pedal can create synth-like dynamics, especially when combined with effects like delay or reverb.

Improving your technique can help you connect with the synth sounds you’re creating, making your playing more expressive and dynamic. At Riffhard, we offer lessons on rhythm techniques that can enhance your ability to blend synth sounds into your playing seamlessly.

Experimenting with Soundscapes

One of the joys of using synth sounds on guitar is the ability to create rich, immersive soundscapes. Whether you’re crafting atmospheric intros or epic breakdowns, synth sounds can add a new dimension to your music.

Here’s how to start experimenting with soundscapes:

• Use ambient effects: Reverb and delay are your best friends when creating soundscapes, adding space and depth to your sound.
• Layer different sounds: Combine synth sounds with natural guitar tones, or even other instruments, to create a complex, layered texture.
• Explore modulation: Effects like chorus, flanger, and phaser can add movement and interest to your soundscapes.

Soundscapes are all about creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment and push the boundaries of what your guitar can do.

Learning from the Masters

Finally, one of the best ways to learn how to get synth sounds on guitar is to study the masters. Guitarists like Tom Morello, Matt Bellamy, and Jonny Greenwood have pioneered the use of synth sounds in rock and metal, and there’s a lot to learn from their approach.

Here’s how you can learn from the pros:

• Listen and analyze: Pay attention to how these guitarists use synth sounds in their music, and consider how you might incorporate similar techniques into your playing.
• Watch live performances: Seeing how these guitarists use effects and technology on stage can provide valuable insights into their process.
• Seek out lessons: At Riffhard, we offer lessons from some of the world’s best metal guitarists, where you can learn the techniques and tricks they use to create synth-like sounds.

By studying the masters, you can gain inspiration and insight into how to integrate synth sounds into your own music.

Final Thoughts

Turning your guitar into a synth powerhouse is not only achievable but incredibly fun. With the right gear and techniques, you can add a whole new dimension to your music. Whether you’re using pedals, MIDI pickups, or software, the possibilities are endless. And if you're looking to refine your approach, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the world's top metal guitarists to help you get there faster. So, go ahead and let your creativity run wild—you never know where it might lead you!