Ask R. Z.

Q: How do I get an overdrive sound out of my amp?

A: Most guitar amps have a "Pre Volume" and a "Post" or "Master Volume." Set them like this:

(1) Start by turning your Master Volume to 0.
(2) Put your Pre Volume to 5 (less for a clean sound, more for a heavier sound.)
(3) Bring Master Volume up to a comfortable level.

NOTE: EQwise, most guitar players set Bass at 7-10, Treble at 5-10 and Mid at 5-0. EQ to taste.....enjoy!

Q: Why won't my guitar stay in tune?

A: The most common problems are improper string winding or old strings.

(1) When putting strings on, make sure you have 3-5 windings around the string peg, no less! Tune, stretch, tune, stretch, tune until the string won't go flat anymore.

(2) If you play at least once a day, change your strings often! Treat yourself to a new $3.00 set of strings. Don't be cheap.

NOTE: If you have a strat-type tremelo, tighten springs so that the bridge rests against the body ála Eddie V. In my opinion, they stay in tune much better that way.

Q: In what order should I put my effects pedals?

A: No right answer, but in my humble opinion, I like this...

| Guitar —> Wah —> Distortion —> Chorus or Pitch —> Delay/Reverb —> Amp |

NOTE: Most commonly Chorus and Delay/Reverb should occur after distortion. Golden Rule: You want to effect your distortion, not distort your effect...get it?

NOTE2: Hendrix, Clapton and Page ran their wah-wah before distortion. I would agree with them; wah sounds the best before your gain/distortion stage.

Ron Zebron has played guitar professionally for more than 23 years, both live in concert and as a studio guitarist.

Discography Credits: Never Never Hurricane In My Heart; Patty Reese debut album; Never Never 1998; Crack the Sky Cut; Dogboy Gorilla Jazz; Slimman Slimman III; Brian Jack Brian Jack II; Carey Ziegler Carey Ziegler I.

Commercial Credits Include: Exxon, McDonalds, Hanover Healthcare, Pentagon, Discovery Channel, T.L.C., Ocean City Promo, Giant Food, Health Channel, Maryland State Lottery Commission, Comcast, G-Net, National Center for Disease Control, Tysons Corners Mall.