Written in the characteristically easy-to-read Dummies style, this is ideal for beginners and experienced musicians alike. Provides guidance on topics ranging from the guitar itself to amps, pedals, and other sound technology. Certain effects work on the volume or signal level, others work on the environment, and still others work on the bass and treble content. This covers them all, and shows how effects can not only add something extra, but also "fix" problematic areas. Topics include: gain-based effects, like distortion, compression, volume pedals, and gates; tone-based effects, including graphic and parametric EQ, and the wah-wah pedal; modulation effects, like the flanger, phase shifter, and tremolo; ambience effects, including reverb and delay, more. 318 pp.