Guitar FX (effects) refer to the wide range of pedals and processors that shape and manipulate a guitar’s signal to create different sounds. From classic distortion and overdrive to reverb, delay, modulation, and pitch-shifting, effects are at the heart of a guitarist’s creative toolkit. Whether analogue or digital, stompbox or multi-effects unit, Guitar FX allow players to express mood, texture, and dynamics in unique ways. Used thoughtfully, they can transform a simple riff into something atmospheric, aggressive, or entirely otherworldly.
A pedal is a compact device that guitarists use to alter their instrument’s sound by shaping effects such as distortion, delay, reverb, and modulation. Typically housed in a rugged enclosure and controlled by footswitches, pedals are designed to be placed on the floor for hands-free operation during playing. They can be analogue or digital, true bypass or buffered, and come in countless varieties to suit different styles and preferences. Pedals are essential tools for creating signature tones and adding colour and texture to a guitarist’s sound.
A preamp (preamplifier) is the first stage in your guitar signal chain that takes the weak signal from your guitar and boosts it to a usable level for shaping tone and driving the power amp.
It’s where much of your tone is formed—controlling gain, EQ, and character. In valve (tube) amps, the preamp stage is what gives you that classic warmth and breakup when pushed. In modern rigs, standalone preamp pedals or rack units can mimic classic amp tones or create entirely new ones. Whether in a studio or live setup, a good preamp is the heart of your sound.
Signature refers to instruments, pedals, or amps designed in collaboration with or endorsed by a well-known musician. These products often feature customised specifications, unique aesthetics, or special features that reflect the artist’s personal style and sound preferences. Signature gear allows fans and players to access the tones and playability inspired by their favourite players, offering a distinct and personalised musical experience.
We have new and used Friedman musical equipment available on our website for fast direct delivery from sellers across the UK & Europe.
£275.34
12AX7 Tube Fuzz Pedal Fuzz, Bass Middle, Treble and Volume Controls Rage Momentary Switch True Bypass Included Universal 12V Power Supply
£196.91
Ideal for use with both clean and overdriven amps Controls for bass, mid, treble, presence, volume and gain are intuitive for quick ‘dial in’ 2 position side-mounted Gain Structure switch lets you choose from low-focused gain or high gain madness! True Bypass Switching Can be powered between 9-18VDC (no battery)
£587.46
All-tube HIGH-VOLTAGE preamp Two independent channels and TS style boost per channel (Based on Friedman’s legendary JEL-100 and JEL-20 designs) Three position CAB/IR select switch per channel (programmable via software) Ultra-transparent series FX loop (bypassable) IR-J's surprisingly compact size turns your pedalboard into your entire rig
£480.00
2-channel Pedal-style Tube Guitar Preamp/DI with Power Amp Simulation Effects Loop IR Loader MIDI
£289.12
Authentic British Overdrive Tones Volume, Gain, Tight, Bass, Treble and Presence True Bypass Switching Can be powered between 9-18VDC (no battery) Assembled in USA