Electric guitar is a musical instrument that converts the vibrations of strings into electrical signals. These signals are strengthened and shaped by a device called an amplifier. A speaker then converts the signals into sound. Through the use of an amplifier and speakers, an electric guitar can produce a wide range of sounds loud enough to fill a huge concert arena.
Most electric guitars have two or three pickups under their strings. These electromagnetic devices convert the string’s vibrations into electric signals. Pickups placed at different locations result in different tones. A switch enables guitar players to select which pickups to use. Dials on the front of the guitar also control the volume and tone from each pickup. Some electric guitars have a tremolo arm, also called a whammy bar or vibrato arm. This leverlike device enables the player to tighten and loosen the strings, creating richly textured sound.
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Amplifiers are essential to the operation of an electric guitar. An amplifier’s electronics strengthen the electrical signals from the guitar. Most amplifiers can also shape the sound from a guitar. For example, amplifiers can create the heavy, distorted guitar sounds used in many rock songs. They can also create echolike reverberation effects. Modern amplifiers offer an exceptionally wide range of tones and effects using digital (computerized) technology. Many amplifiers come with built-in speakers.
The first electric guitars were developed in the early 1930’s. They had hollow wooden bodies similar to those of traditional acoustic (nonelectric) guitars. Solid-body electric guitars were developed soon afterwards. Les Paul, an American guitarist, designed an early solid-body electric guitar in 1941. In the 1950’s, Paul endorsed and helped design a popular line of electric guitars made by the Gibson company. The American inventor Leo Fender also created many well-known electric guitar designs in the 1940’s and 1950’s. Fender’s designs include the Stratocaster and the Telecaster. Designs by Fender and models named after Paul remain popular with modern players.
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See also Guitar; Rock music.
