Studio week

A pedalboard can make playing easier, but poor pedal order, weak power or messy cabling can quickly add hum, whine and an unclear sound. See how to connect effects, power them and keep the signal clean without abandoning proven rules.

The simplest speakers for a turntable are active speakers if your turntable has a built-in preamp or line output. With passive speakers you need an amplifier or receiver, and older turntables often also need a separate phono preamp.

Wondering how to tune a guitar quickly and accurately? This guide covers standard E – A – D – G – B – E tuning, string frequencies, tuning with a tuner, an app or by ear, plus practical advice on when to use a clip-on or pedal tuner.