When choosing the best noise gate for the money, it is important to consider factors such as your budget, the type of music you play, and the features you need. If you are a professional musician or an avid musician who demands the best possible sound quality, you should definitely check out the ISP Decimator II G String Noise Reduction Pedal. This pedal is loaded with advanced features, including independent threshold and ratio controls for both the noise reduction and sustain sections, as well as individual attack and release time controls for each section. It also has a built-in noise filter that can be used to remove unwanted noise from your signal. The ISP Decimator II is a powerful noise reduction pedal that will give you the cleanest possible sound.
The ISP Decimator II G String Noise Reduction Pedal is a great choice for professional musicians who demand the best possible sound quality. However, if you’re on a budget, there are a number of other great noise gate pedals available for less money. Here are a few of our top picks:
- The Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor is a classic noise gate pedal that has been used by professional musicians for decades. It’s a simple and effective pedal that gets the job done.
- The MXR M133 Micro Amp is a great choice for guitarists who want a noise gate pedal that can also be used as a boost pedal. It has a simple design and is very easy to use.
- The TC Electronic Sentry Noise Gate is a great choice for guitarists who want a noise gate pedal with advanced features. It has a number of different noise reduction modes, as well as a built-in tuner.
Uncover the Ultimate Noise Terminator: The Best Noise Gate for Your Money
1. Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor: The Swiss Army Knife of Noise Control
The Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor is widely regarded as the best bang-for-your-buck noise gate on the market. With its simple yet effective operation, intuitive controls, and rock-solid construction, it’s a favorite among guitarists and bassists of all genres. The NS-2 employs a series of filters and gain reduction circuits to effectively silence unwanted noise while preserving the clarity and dynamics of your signal. Its adjustable threshold and decay parameters allow for precise customization, ensuring optimal noise suppression without signal degradation.
Beyond its stellar performance, the NS-2 is also incredibly versatile. It features a dedicated loop send/return jack, making it easy to integrate into any pedalboard setup. This allows you to use the NS-2 to process only the noisy signals from specific pedals or instruments while leaving the rest of your chain unaffected. The unit also includes a dedicated ground lift switch to help eliminate ground loops and other noise-inducing issues.
The Boss NS-2’s compact size and robust metal construction make it a reliable companion on stage or in the studio. Its user-friendly controls and unbeatable value have earned it a place as a staple on the pedalboards of countless musicians worldwide.
4. MXR M133 Smart Gate: The Gatekeeper with Intelligence
The MXR M133 Smart Gate is a technologically advanced noise gate that combines an intelligent algorithm with traditional threshold and decay controls. Its “Smart Gate” technology continuously analyzes the input signal and adjusts its parameters accordingly, resulting in seamless noise suppression without compromising your tone. The Smart Gate continuously monitors the attack and release behavior of your playing, adapting to different playing styles and volume dynamics.
The M133 Smart Gate’s versatile controls provide a wide range of customization options. The adjustable threshold allows you to set the gate’s sensitivity, while the decay parameter controls how quickly the gate closes. The Gate In and Gate Out jacks enable you to use the Smart Gate as a send/return effect or as part of a larger effects loop. The “Attack Time” switch optimizes the gate’s response for single-note, chord, or rhythmic playing.
With its intelligent performance and comprehensive controls, the MXR M133 Smart Gate is the perfect choice for musicians seeking a noise gate that adapts to their playing dynamics.
| Boss NS-2 | MXR M133 | |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Passive | Active |
| Threshold Range | -60 dB to +10 dB | -60 dB to +10 dB |
| Decay Range | 0.1 ms to 1 s | 0.05 ms to 2 s |
| Controls | Threshold, Decay, Level | Threshold, Decay, Gate In, Gate Out, Attack Time |
| ISP Technologies Decimator G String II | Source Audio SA250 Neo Ventilator | |
| Technology | Digital | Digital |
| Threshold Range | -70 dB to +10 dB | -70 dB to +10 dB |
| Decay Range | 0.01 ms to 2 s | 0.01 ms to 2 s |
| Controls | Threshold, Decay, Noise Gate, Clean Blend, Dry Blend | Threshold, Decay, Attack, Release, Dry/Wet, Hold |
Noise Gates: Unmasking the Secret to Silencing Unwanted Noise
Noise gates, guardians of sonic purity, stand as unsung heroes in the world of guitar pedals. Their mission: to tame the unruly beast of unwanted noise and restore order to the musical landscape. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricate workings of noise gates, empowering you to harness their power and elevate your musical prowess.
The Anatomy of a Noise Gate
Noise gates are essentially electronic switches that divide the incoming signal into two paths: one for the desired sound and one for the unwanted noise. The gate operates based on a threshold setting, which determines the level of signal that triggers its closure. When the signal falls below this threshold, the gate engages, effectively cutting off the noise.
The Key to Effective Noise Gating: Threshold Levels
Finding the optimal threshold setting is crucial for maximizing noise gate performance. Too high a threshold will allow noise to bleed through, while too low a threshold will mute desired notes unintentionally. Here’s a breakdown of different signal levels and their relevance to threshold settings:
| Signal Level | Effect on Threshold Setting |
|---|---|
| Below Threshold | Noise is blocked, yielding a clean signal. |
| At Threshold | Gate opens and closes rapidly, creating a slight effect on sustain and dynamics. |
| Above Threshold | Gate remains open, allowing signal to pass through unhindered. |
For optimal results, experiment with the threshold setting while playing your instrument. Aim for a setting where the gate effectively silences unwanted noise without compromising the desired sound.
Budget-Friendly Solutions: Noise Gates for the Frugal Player
Noise gates are an essential tool for any guitarist who wants to tame unwanted noise and hum. They can be especially useful for high-gain players who need to control feedback and distortion. But noise gates can be expensive, so it’s important to find one that fits your budget.
Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor
The Boss NS-2 is a classic noise gate that has been used by countless guitarists over the years. It’s a simple and straightforward pedal with two main controls: Threshold and Decay. The Threshold knob sets the level at which the gate will open, while the Decay knob controls how quickly the gate will close after the signal has stopped.
MXR M135 Smart Gate
The MXR M135 Smart Gate is a more advanced noise gate that offers a wider range of features than the Boss NS-2. It has three main controls: Threshold, Release, and Attack. The Threshold knob sets the level at which the gate will open, while the Release knob controls how quickly the gate will close after the signal has stopped.
ISP Technologies Decimator G String II
The ISP Technologies Decimator G String II is a high-end noise gate that offers the best possible noise reduction. It has four main controls: Threshold, Release, Attack, and Hold. The Threshold knob sets the level at which the gate will open, while the Release knob controls how quickly the gate will close after the signal has stopped.
Donner Noise Killer
The Donner Noise Killer is a budget-friendly noise gate that offers surprisingly good performance. It has two main controls: Threshold and Decay. The Threshold knob sets the level at which the gate will open, while the Decay knob controls how quickly the gate will close after the signal has stopped.
tc electronic Sentry Noise Gate
The tc electronic Sentry Noise Gate is a compact and affordable noise gate that offers a wide range of features. It has three main controls: Threshold, Release, and Attack. The Threshold knob sets the level at which the gate will open, while the Release knob controls how quickly the gate will close after the signal has stopped.
| Noise Gate | Price |
|---|---|
| Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor | $79.99 |
| MXR M135 Smart Gate | $129.99 |
| ISP Technologies Decimator G String II | $249.99 |
| Donner Noise Killer | $29.99 |
| tc electronic Sentry Noise Gate | $49.99 |
Mastering the Art of Gating: Tips and Techniques
Understanding Gating Basics
A noise gate is a vital tool for eliminating unwanted noise and hum from your guitar signal. It functions like a gatekeeper, allowing the desired signal to pass through while suppressing anything below a certain threshold.
Finding the Ideal Threshold Setting
Adjusting the threshold is crucial for effective gating. Start with a high setting to eliminate the most noise while leaving the desired signal intact. Gradually lower the threshold until you achieve a balance between noise reduction and preserving signal clarity.
Optimizing Attack and Release Times
Attack time determines how quickly the gate closes when the input signal drops below the threshold. A faster attack time prevents unwanted noise from bleeding through, while a slower attack time allows some natural decay. Release time controls how long the gate remains closed after the signal falls below the threshold, preventing the “clicking” sound when the gate opens too quickly.
Advanced Techniques: Sidechain Filtering
Sidechain filtering allows you to use an external signal (e.g., from your bass or kick drum) to control your guitar’s noise gate. This technique can help reduce feedback and enhance the gate’s effectiveness in complex musical situations.
Experimentation and Patience
Finding the optimal noise gate settings requires experimentation and patience. Adjust the parameters and listen critically to your tone, experimenting with different playing styles and pickups. Don’t be afraid to tweak the settings as your sound evolves.
Gating Common Troubleshooting Tips
Symptom: Gate opening too slowly
Solution: Increase the attack time to allow more of the signal through.
Symptom: Gate closing too quickly
Solution: Decrease the release time to keep the gate open longer.
Symptom: Clicking noises when the gate opens/closes
Solution: Adjust the attack and release times more gradually or use a noise reducer pedal to smooth the transitions.
Comparing and Contrasting Noise Gates: A Side-by-Side Analysis
Gate Threshold
The gate threshold determines the level at which the gate activates, effectively muting signals below this threshold. A lower threshold will capture more noise, while a higher threshold may allow some noise to seep through. Finding the optimal threshold is crucial for balancing noise reduction with preserving subtle playing nuances.
Release Time
The release time controls how quickly the gate closes after the signal drops below the threshold. A shorter release time will abruptly cut off the signal, resulting in a more noticeable effect. Conversely, a longer release time will allow the signal to decay more naturally before closing the gate, ensuring a smoother transition.
Attack Time
The attack time determines how quickly the gate opens once the signal exceeds the threshold. A shorter attack time will open the gate swiftly, minimizing signal loss. However, it may introduce a slight “popping” sound when the gate engages. A longer attack time will open the gate more gradually, reducing the risk of audible artifacts.
Key Features
Noise gates may offer additional features to enhance their functionality. These include adjustable noise reduction, dedicated EQ controls for fine-tuning the frequency range affected by the gate, and sidechain options for triggering the gate based on an external source.
Frequency Response
The frequency response of a noise gate indicates the range of frequencies it affects. A wideband noise gate will target noise across the entire audio spectrum, while a narrowband gate will focus on specific frequency bands. Choosing a gate with an appropriate frequency response is essential to avoid inadvertently muting desired signals.
Input and Output Impedance
The input and output impedance of a noise gate affects how it interacts with other pedals and equipment. A high input impedance ensures compatibility with a wide range of sources, while a low output impedance minimizes signal loss. Matching the impedance of the noise gate to the rest of the signal chain is crucial for maintaining optimal performance.
Routing Options
Noise gates offer various routing options, such as inserting them directly into the signal path or using a send/return loop. Understanding the routing capabilities of a noise gate is essential for integrating it seamlessly into your setup.
The Best Bang for Your Buck: Value-Driven Noise Gates
8. MXR M135 Smart Gate
The MXR M135 Smart Gate is an exceptionally robust and dependable choice for those seeking an economical noise gate pedal. Its construction boasts a rugged metal chassis, ensuring durability and longevity. The Smart Gate incorporates an innovative adaptive release function that intelligently senses the decay time of your signal. This enables the gate to automatically adjust its release parameters, providing a seamless and natural sound. Additionally, the pedal offers adjustable threshold, decay, and ratio controls, granting you precise control over your noise gating parameters. The Smart Gate also features a status LED that clearly indicates when the gate is engaged, making it simple to monitor its functionality during performances or recordings.
| Threshold | Adjustable |
| Decay | Adaptive |
| Ratio | Adjustable |
| Bypass | True bypass |
| Power | 9V DC |
Noise Gates for Every Need: From Studio to Stage
Noise gates are essential tools for controlling unwanted noise in a variety of audio applications. Whether you’re recording in the studio or playing live on stage, a noise gate can help to eliminate unwanted hum, buzz, and other distracting sounds.
9. MXR Noise Clamp
The MXR Noise Clamp is a simple and affordable noise gate that’s perfect for beginners. It features a single knob that controls the amount of noise reduction, making it easy to dial in the right amount of suppression. The Noise Clamp is also very compact, making it easy to fit on any pedalboard.
Here’s a table summarizing the key features of the MXR Noise Clamp:
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Controls | Threshold, Decay |
| Dimensions | 4.4 x 3.4 x 2.1 inches |
| Weight | 0.5 pounds |
Best Noise Gate for the Money Pedal
A noise gate is an essential tool for any guitarist who wants to reduce unwanted noise from their signal. It can help to eliminate hum, buzz, and other unwanted sounds, making your playing sound cleaner and more professional. If you’re looking for a noise gate that won’t break the bank, here are a few of the best options on the market:
- Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor
- MXR M101 Noise Clamp
- ISP Technologies Decimator II G String Noise Reduction
- Rocktron Hush Super C
- Radial Engineering BigShot i2 Noise Suppressor
People Also Ask
What is the best noise gate pedal for beginners?
The Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor is a great choice for beginners because it’s easy to use and affordable. It has a simple two-knob design that makes it easy to dial in the perfect amount of noise reduction.
What are the different types of noise gates?
There are two main types of noise gates: hard gates and soft gates. Hard gates abruptly cut off the signal when the noise level exceeds a certain threshold. Soft gates gradually reduce the signal level as the noise level increases.
How do I choose the right noise gate pedal?
When choosing a noise gate pedal, you need to consider the following factors:
- The type of music you play
- Your playing style
- The other pedals in your signal chain
- Your budget
