What do noise gate pedals do?

Noise gate pedals work by letting the signal above a set volume pass through while stopping anything below the defined volume. This is set using the threshold control.

Where does a noise gate go in the signal chain?

Guitar noise gates should come after overdrive and distortion pedals. This is because they are the most common source of noise. However, you could experiment with placing them before if you have a particularly noisy guitar. Noise gates should definitely come before delays and reverbs because it would cut the trails short artificially.

What's the difference between a noise gate pedal and a noise suppressor?

They are pretty similar: a noise gate mutes everything below a certain volume whereas a noise suppressor greatly reduces it. Studio noise suppressors can isolate specific frequencies but this doesn’t tend to be a feature in pedal suppressors.

Do I need both a noise gate and a noise suppressor?

No, one should have the desired effect. If you are still having a problem even with a noise gate it might be worth investigating the source of the noise. Noise can often come from cheap power supplies and poorly shielded guitars.

What is the difference between a compressor pedal and a noise gate?

Compressor pedals work by reducing the volume of your loudest notes and increasing the volume of your quietest notes. A noise gate works by letting the signal above a set volume pass through while stopping anything below the defined volume.

Do pro guitarists use noise gates?

Yes! The vast majority of pro guitarists are likely to use a noise gate either while playing live or in the studio.

Who uses a noise gate pedal?

Slash, John Frusiante, James Hetfield, Jack White, Jim Root, The Edge, Yngwie Malmsteen and Marty Friedman are some of the many guitarists who use a noise gate pedal.