Playing Rig Configurations

For a guitarist there are multiple playing rigs which can serve different purposes. With numerous options available, it’s essential to understand the most common configurations. Here, we’ll focus on two fundamental signal chains.

Signal Chain

A signal chain is an audio signal which flows from its initial source of origin, through various processing stages to its ultimate destination or output.

Live Rig

A live set up produces a direct, real-time playback through connected speakers. This can be comprised of equipment of both analog and digital technology. This setup has been typically used for live performances and practice sessions.

Guitar -> Effects Pedals -> Amplifier/Speaker

Guitar

Typically acoustic or electric, the guitar signal is transferred either via a 1/4 jack or a microphone.

Effects Pedals

Effects pedals processess the signal between the guitar to the amplifier, modifying the sound.

Amplifier/Speaker

Amplifies the signal which is then made audible by speakers.

Home Studio Rig

A studio setup enables high-quality recording and production of guitar audio. It also allows for post-processing, editing, and mixing within a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).

Guitar -> Audio Interface -> Computer (DAW & Plugins) -> Speakers/Headphones

Guitar

Typically acoustic or electric, the guitar signal is transferred either via a 1/4 jack or a microphone.

Audio Interface:

Converts the analog audio signal from the guitar into a digital signal that a computer can process.

Computer

Runs Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software for recording, editing, and producing audio. Can also apply a wide range of digital effects and processing. A list of software can be found on the Community Resources page.

Speakers/Headphones

Either wired (Studio or PA system speakers) or wireless (bluetooth).

Modern Rig Configurations

Previously setups served different purposes and therefore were distinguishable from one another. Now we are seeing configurations in modern rigs with digital technologies becoming more prevelant in practice and live contexts.

The discussion of tonal properties between analogue vs digital has been a long debate. Now with new technologies such as amp simulators using AI technology trained on real amplifiers, the difference in sound is becoming less distinguishable. One of the remaining differences between the two is the difference in playing feel.