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→Effects Loops
== Effects Loops ==
Most modern amps feature the availability of distortion in the pre-amp. Additionally, even when using distortion pedals in front the amp, the pre-amp still provides compression. Many effects should be processed completely after any distortion or compression affects the signal. For example, the delay trails of a delay effect should gradually decrease in volume until they are inaudible. With compression, the trails would have a more consistent volume level until suddenly dropping off. Similarly, reverb would seem to stagnate rather than decay. Distortion would be even worse - , with delay trails and reverb being distorted just like the original signal, creating a noisy mess.
An effects loop gives you the option to run effects between the pre-amp and power amp. In some cases, the power amp may still be providing compression or distortion; but it's usually less than the pre-amp.