Guitar FX basics: What is a phaser?

Boss's phaser pedal: the PH-3 Phase Shifter
Boss's phaser pedal: the PH-3 Phase Shifter

Click here for all Guitar FX basics videos.

Getting to grips with guitar effects can be a complicated business and there are so many different types that it can be difficult to know where to start. This Guitar FX basics series of video lessons is a brief introduction to the most common effects.

This video lesson focuses on the phaser. A phaser works by mixing a copy of the guitar signal with the original after delaying the copy signal for a few fractions of a second, causing a ‘phase shift´ between the two signals. The length of this pause is gradually varied over time, resulting in a ‘sweeping effect. Watch the video below to hear how this sounds.

A phaser is very similar to its cousin the flanger - check out our Guitar FX basics video on the flanger to hear the difference.

MusicRadar

MusicRadar is the number one website for music-makers of all kinds, be they guitarists, drummers, keyboard players, DJs or producers...

  • GEAR: We help musicians find the best gear with top-ranking gear round-ups and high-quality, authoritative reviews by a wide team of highly experienced experts.
  • TIPS: We also provide tuition, from bite-sized tips to advanced work-outs and guidance from recognised musicians and stars.
  • STARS: We talk to musicians and stars about their creative processes, and the nuts and bolts of their gear and technique. We give fans an insight into the craft of music-making that no other music website can.