Flanger Pedal The Boss BF-2: Exploring Analog Modulation Effects

For a long time, flanger pedals were considered to be one-trick ponies, mainly used to create the iconic jet plane swoosh sound. However, as we delve deeper into the world of analog modulation effects, it becomes evident that basic flanger pedals, such as the Boss BF-2 and MXR M117, offer a remarkable versatility that extends far beyond their initial impression.

In this video, Michael Banfield show us that with a comprehensive understanding of the controls, one can unlock a wide range of effects, including chorus, phaser, rotary speaker, univibe, vibrato, and even auto wah, using just a single analog pedal.

The Beauty of Analog Flanger Pedals

While multi-effects pedals are capable of delivering multiple modulation effects in a single box, there is a certain charm in exploring the creative possibilities and resourcefulness that arise from using a traditional analog flanger pedal. These pedals require a deeper understanding of their controls and the ability to fine-tune them to achieve the desired effect. Unlike chorus and phaser pedals, which may have fewer controls and intuitive settings, flanger pedals demand more skill and experimentation to harness their full potential.

The Flanger Effect: Origins and Basics

The flanger effect finds its roots in studio production techniques, where two tape machines playing the same music are intentionally slightly out of sync. This creates a short delay and a drop in pitch. The flanging sound is produced by pressing a finger against the flange of one tape machine, causing it to slow down and drop in pitch. Releasing the pressure causes it to speed up and synchronize with the other tape machine, creating the characteristic flanger effect.

Understanding the Manual Controls

A flanger pedal typically consists of several controls that determine the characteristics of the effect:

• Delay Time: Adjusts the sync between the two tape machines. Longer settings result in a more pronounced delay effect, while shorter settings yield quicker synchronization.
• Depth or Width: Controls the width of the sweep, simulating the pressure applied to the flange of the tape machine. Higher values result in a wider and more intense effect.
• Rate or Speed: Determines the speed and frequency of the modulation. Higher values create a faster and more frequent modulation effect.
• Resonance or Feedback: This control varies across different flanger pedals, but generally feeds the delayed signal back to the input, intensifying the flanging effect as it is turned up.

Exploring Different Flanger Effects

Now, let's delve into various flanger settings and the effects they can produce:

Standard Flanger 'Swoosh'

To achieve the classic flanger swooshing sound, set all controls to around noon, with the resonance control possibly increased slightly.

Chorus

For chorus sounds, reduce the resonance and set the delay time (manual control) to its minimum for longer delays. This creates a smooth chorus effect with signals overlapping each other.

Rotary Speaker

To simulate a rotary speaker effect, utilize similar settings to chorus sounds, but increase the depth slightly for a wider sweep. This setting can produce organ-like sounds and emulate classic rock vibes.

Uni-Vibe

Raising the manual control shortens the delay, resulting in a phasing-type sound similar to a Uni-Vibe. This setting is commonly used in classic rock genres.

Vibrato

By increasing both depth and rate controls, a vibrato pedal-like sound can be achieved. This setting is ideal for creating momentary effects that highlight specific notes.

Phaser

Reducing the delay to a short duration produces a sound similar to a phaser. Longer delay settings create a layered effect, while shorter settings provide a shimmering sound with reduced bass.

Auto Wah

To achieve a funkier phaser sound resembling an auto wah pedal, adjust the manual and depth controls while slightly increasing the resonance.

Sci-Fi Synth

For extreme settings reminiscent of 80s sci-fi sounds, max out all controls, except possibly the rate control, which can be adjusted to taste.

Exploring the versatility of flanger pedals reveals a world of creative possibilities within a single analog effect. While the examples provided focused on the Boss BF-2, these settings can be applied to any flanger pedal with similar controls. By understanding and fine-tuning the controls, musicians can transcend the notion of flanger pedals as one-dimensional effects and unlock a wide range of analog modulation sounds.