"Ask Bud!"

Question:

My friend and I both own exactly the same brand and model of pedal steel guitar. My friend's guitar sounds better than mine. What causes this?

Answer:

There are several reasons for this difference in sound. I will assume that you both have identical amplifiers and effects. I find that most of the difference lies in the player's technique. In fact, try listening to your friend play your guitar on his system. See if he sounds any different (worse or better). Probably not.

The rest of the difference in sound is usually caused by one of the following:

1. If you take 2 amplifiers of the same manufacturer and model, the sound can be somewhat different, even when using the same settings. This is due to variations in component tolerance of both the electronics and the speakers. Variations in cabinet construction and density will also produce variations in sound.
   
   
2. Each of the guitars made by the same manufacturer will have slightly different sounds. Although not a complete list, some of the reasons for this include Variations or Differences in any one of the following:
   
   
   • Wood or metal density.
     
     
   • Strings (gauges and/or brands ).
     
     
   • Construction (screw torque, etc.).
     
     
   • Parts and materials used in each steel.
     
     
   • Pickup heights.
     
     
3. Different picks will cause different sounds.
   
   
4. Different volume pedals may cause variations.
   
   
5. Different cords also can alter sound.
   
   

As you can see, the list can go on almost endlessly. Design and manufacturing process differences between different manufacturers can produce a great sounding brand of guitar, as well as a brand that does not sound as good. However, remember that most of the difference in the sound of identical guitars from the same builder appears to be: just plain old technique.

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