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How to Hook Up a Wireless Guitar With a Pedal Chain

Wireless guitar systems send a radio frequency signal from a transmitter connected to your guitar, to a receiver that is typically connected an amplifier. Using a wireless system removes the inconvenience and restriction of using guitar cables. This means you can roam the stage, posing as you play your big solo, without worrying about your cable snagging on something. If you use effects pedals, you need to hook up the wireless system so the signal travels from your guitar to the effects, then on to your amp. This way you have access to your complete tonal arsenal without being tethered to your amp.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 one-quarter-inch jack patch cables
  • Wireless transmitter
  • Wireless receiver
  • Quarter-inch jack instrument cable
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Instructions

    • 1

      Attach the transmitter to your guitar strap or belt using the belt clip. For extra security if attaching to your strap, wrap electrical tape around the strap and belt clip.

    • 2

      Connect a patch lead to the “Input” jack on the transmitter.

    • 3

      Connect the other end of the patch cable to your guitar output jack. Patch cable are small, typically about 4 inches long. They are therefore the most suitable type of lead for this application as they don’t sag.

    • 4

      Connect a second patch cable to the “Input” jack on the first pedal in your pedal chain. A pedal chain is a series of effects pedals linked in sequence. The order is a matter of preference.

    • 5

      Connect this patch cable to the “Output” jack on the receiver. This places the receiver between the guitar and the effects chain, so the signal from your guitar is transmitted wirelessly to the effects, then via the effects chain to the amp in the standard way, using normal cables. Alternatively, use a longer lead that permits you to mount the receiver on top of the amplifier. This is preferable if you’d prefer for the receiver not to be on the ground, where it may get kicked.

    • 6

      Connect the final pedal in your chain to the amp, with a standard quarter-inch jack instrument cable. If you are mounting the receiver on your amp, you need only use a short cable.

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