The effects loop on the Fender Performer 650 amplifier allows you to connect external effects pedals or processors between the amplifier's preamp and power amp sections. This placement provides greater control over the signal chain and can enhance the sound of your guitar rig. Here's how to use the effects loop on your Fender Performer 650 amplifier:
1. Identify the Effects Loop:
- Locate the "EFFECTS LOOP" section on the back panel of your Fender Performer 650 amplifier.
- It typically consists of two jacks labeled "SEND" and "RETURN."
2. Connect Your Effects:
- Take the output (or "out") jack of your external effects pedal or processor and connect it to the "SEND" jack on the amplifier.
- Connect the input (or "in") jack of your effects unit to the "RETURN" jack on the amplifier.
3. Adjust the Loop Level:
- Some amplifiers, including the Fender Performer 650, may have an "EFFECTS LOOP LEVEL" control.
- This knob adjusts the signal level sent to the effects loop, allowing you to fine-tune the volume and gain of the external effects.
4. Engage the Effects Loop:
- Most amplifiers have a footswitch or button labeled "EFFECTS LOOP" or "FX LOOP."
- Press this switch to activate (engage) the effects loop and start processing your guitar signal through your external effects.
5. Adjust Effects Parameters:
- Tweak the knobs and controls on your effects pedals or processors to shape and enhance your guitar tone as desired.
- Experiment with different settings to find the optimal sound you're looking for.
Routing and Signal Flow:
The effects loop is connected after the preamplifier section and before the power amplifier section of the amplifier. Here's what happens when the effects loop is engaged:
- The guitar signal enters the guitar amplifier and goes through the preamplifier section, which shapes the tone with features like gain, equalization, and any other preamp controls.
- After passing through the preamp, the signal is routed to the "SEND" jack of the effects loop.
- The signal then travels through your connected external effects pedals or processors, where it is further modified, distorted, time-modulated, or processed as per the effects used.
- The modified signal returns to the amplifier's "RETURN" jack.
- The signal continues through the amplifier's power amplifier section, which amplifies the signal and drives the speaker(s).
By understanding the signal flow and using the effects loop, you can enhance your guitar sound, add effects like reverb, delay, modulation, and more, and take control of your tone sculpting.