[Guitar Effects] 5 Recommended Buffers! [How to Use Them and Why They're Necessary]

When researching effects pedals, you may be confused by the many katakana terms such as "buffer," "impedance," and "true bypass."

This time,We will introduce some carefully selected recommended models, along with their uses and points to note when using buffer effects.

Guitar Effects | What is a Buffer?

The buffer isIt has the function of lowering impedance and is used to prevent deterioration of sound quality and suppress noise.

Converting high impedance to low impedanceThat is the role of the buffer.

A quick explanation of impedance!

Impedance (electrical resistance) is"Susceptibility to sound stress"Something like this.
The signal coming from the guitar is weak and easily stressed= High impedance
On the other hand, the state of being resistant to stressLow impedance

In other words, By passing the weak signal from the guitar through a buffer, it is strengthened and prevents deterioration of sound quality and noise.This is the most common inquiry we receive.

Understanding Buffers | How they relate to bypass methods

The difference between buffered bypass and true bypass

Prevents deterioration of sound quality and noiseThe difficult part is that you can't fully understand the buffer just by using these functions.

When considering buffers,"True Bypass"と"Buffered bypass"You need to know about:

Bypass method when the guitar or bass signal passes through an effect that is turned offThat.

Do effects pedals need buffers?

Although it is not essential, it can have a significant effect depending on the environment, so it is better to have it.

That's the conclusion.

Then,In what specific situations will it be needed?

The longer the distance and the more intervening elements there are, the more likely it is that sound degradation and noise will occur.

The most common pattern is to use multiple effect boards in series, up to four or five.

However, even those who use multi-effectors or programmable switchers may prefer to use a buffer.

Even with true bypass, when the effect is turned on the signal will always pass through the buffer circuit.

However, the performance and characteristics of the buffer will vary depending on the effector, so it's difficult to say, but in the end it depends on the situation.

Some vintage effects are designed to receive high impedance signals, so placing a buffer in front of them can prevent the original distortion or sound from coming out. Also, making the signal stronger can make it less delicate and unnatural, so ultimately it's down to personal preference.

5 Recommended Guitar Buffer Effects!

PROVIDENCE/ VZW-1 VITALIZER WV

A long-selling Buffer that is well-known for its sound that is as close as possible to the original guitar sound.

Providence's unique design ensures that when converting to low impedance, the high frequencies are not emphasized too much and the sound becomes too Hi-Fi.

It doesn't have that active feel that is common with buffers, and it's compact so it fits great on your pedal board!

Xotic / Super Clean Buffer・EP Booster

The Super Clean Buffer is a mini-sized pedal that combines a high-end buffer function and a clean boost function of up to +12dB in a compact housing. It prevents the deterioration of sound quality that occurs when connecting multiple effects with patch cables or running long cables.

The op-amp uses a JRC4558, and the boost EQ settings can be combined from high cut, high mid boost, low mid boost, and bass boost by operating the four DP switches on the side of the unit. The buffer function can also be turned off by operating the DIP switch inside the unit.

This model is based on Xotic's classic EP Booster with a buffer function, but some people choose the EP for its versatility and sound preferences.

A best-seller that is always on and can also be used as a buffer.

One Control / Minimal Series BJF Buffer Split

The One Control Minimal Series BJF Buffer Split is a small, functional buffer splitter that can be used flexibly. The switch on the side of the case allows you to switch the buffer ON/OFF and SPLIT/LOOP, allowing you to use it in six different ways with just one unit.

- High quality, natural sounding BJF Buffer (can be turned on/off)
- Split out to split the output into two systems
- 1LOOP Box that allows you to turn one effect loop on/off (true bypass/buffered bypass switchable)
- AB Box that switches between two output systems
- Input selector for switching between instruments
- A latch-type foot switch that can remotely control various devices

Suhr / BUFFER

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Today's players demand quality, reliability and great tone. The Suhr Buffer uses premium parts such as high quality, low noise audiophile op amps, glass ebony PCBs and machined aluminum enclosures. We've worked hard to build it up, just like our past successful series such as Badger, Hand Wired and OD series amplifiers. This product is a buffer/line driver that delivers crystal clear tone. Signal loss occurs when running long distance cables or crossing multiple cables. By using this Buffer, you can avoid such loss and protect your tone. Normally we recommend placing the Buffer first. However, if you are using a vintage fuzz like Fuzz Face or Tone Bender, we recommend connecting it after those effects to protect the character. Designed to withstand any situation, we packed the best technology and the best materials into this compact aluminum enclosure. Output 1 (ISO) is designed independently from other circuits to suppress ground noise and other noise, and the phase switch returns the phase to the optimal position.

TC Electronic / BonaFide Buffer

A compact, simple, and affordable TC buffer.

This model uses high-quality analog circuits to faithfully reproduce the original sound.

There is no switch, so once plugged in it is always on.

A reliable function that switches to true bypass in the unlikely event of a power failure.