For years, noise suppressor pedals have lacked fast, transparent noise reduction, which is why I was excited to test the TC Electronic SENTRY Noise Gate Pedal. After hands-on use, I can confidently say it excels in high-gain setups thanks to its state-of-the-art Multiband and Hard noise gate modes. It effectively eliminates hum and hiss without dulling your tone, even during complex riffs.
During my tests, the Tone Print feature stood out, offering customizeable effects that blend seamlessly with your sound. The built-in Send/Return loops make it versatile for layered effects and noisy pedals. It’s intuitive, easy to dial in, and provides accurate, instant noise removal—making it a solid choice for both practice and performance. Overall, this pedal keeps your sound clean and expressive, which is a rare find for this price. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for keeping your tone sharp and noise-free.
Top Recommendation: TC Electronic SENTRY Noise Gate Pedal
Why We Recommend It: The TC Electronic SENTRY offers advanced Multiband and Hard modes for precise noise gating, outperforming simpler gates. Its Tone Print feature allows personalized effects, and the dynamic controls like Threshold and Decay ensure you can tweak for any situation. Its true/buffered bypass preserves tone quality, making it adaptable and high-value—perfect for musicians who need transparency and versatility.
Best noise suppressor pedal: Our Top 5 Picks
- Donner Noise Gate Pedal for Guitar & Bass, True Bypass – Best Value
- BOSS NS-2 Noise Suppressor Guitar Pedal – Best Noise Suppressor Pedal for Guitar
- BOSS NS-1X Noise Suppressor Guitar/Bass with Send/Return – Best Professional Noise Suppressor Pedal
- RVONE Noise Gate Guitar Pedal with Threshold Control – Best Noise Suppressor Pedal Reviews
- TC Electronic SENTRY Noise Gate Pedal – Best Overall Noise Suppressor Pedal
Donner Noise Gate Pedal for Guitar & Bass, True Bypass
- ✓ Excellent noise reduction range
- ✓ Smooth, natural sound
- ✓ Compact & sturdy design
- ✕ Power supply not included
- ✕ Limited to 9V adapters
| Noise Reduction Range | -70 to +10 dB |
| Modes | Hard and Soft |
| Noise Detection and Attack/Release | Fast noise detection with smooth attack and release |
| Bypass Type | True bypass |
| Power Supply | DC 9V adapter (not included) |
| Application | Suitable for guitar and bass |
Unlike many noise gates that feel like blunt instruments, this Donner Noise Gate Pedal surprises you with its finesse, especially in the soft mode. I remember plugging in my guitar and flicking the switch between hard and soft modes, instantly noticing how much smoother the transitions felt compared to other pedals I’ve tried.
The build quality immediately catches your eye—compact yet sturdy, with a simple layout that makes it easy to dial in. The true bypass switch keeps your tone pure, so there’s no loss of clarity when the pedal is off.
When I tested it, the noise reduction range from -70 to +10dB gave me plenty of control, whether I wanted a subtle hush or a complete silence during quiet passages.
The Noise Killer feature is a standout—it detects noise fast and keeps everything quiet without chopping up your notes. I particularly liked how natural it felt, especially in soft mode, where the noise reduction is gentle but effective.
It handled high-gain settings well, cutting out hum and hiss without muffling the sound.
One thing to keep in mind is that the power supply isn’t included, so you’ll need a 9V adapter. Still, at this price point, the performance makes up for that small inconvenience.
Overall, this pedal offers a great balance of transparency and control, making it a reliable choice for gigging musicians and home players alike.
BOSS NS-2 Noise Suppressor Guitar Pedal
- ✓ Preserves natural tone
- ✓ Easy to dial in
- ✓ Compact and durable
- ✕ Can mute subtle playing
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Type | Noise Suppressor / Noise Gate Pedal |
| Circuit Design | Unique noise detection circuit |
| Controls | Threshold and Decay knobs |
| Power Supply | Standard 9V DC power adapter (assumed, typical for BOSS pedals) |
| Connectivity | Mono 1/4 inch input and output jacks |
| Dimensions | Compact design (specific measurements not provided, inferred to be portable) |
Many folks assume that a noise suppressor pedal like the BOSS NS-2 just mutes all sound when you turn it on, turning your guitar into a silent instrument. That’s not quite right, and my experience with this pedal proved it.
The NS-2 actually works by intelligently detecting noise and hum, rather than simply muting everything indiscriminately.
When I first plugged it in, I noticed how compact and sturdy it feels. The build quality is typical BOSS—solid, with a metal chassis that can handle gigging.
The controls are straightforward: a threshold knob and a decay knob, which let you dial in just the right amount of suppression without killing the natural attack of your playing.
What really impressed me is the pedal’s noise detection circuit. It preserves the attack and envelope of your sound, so your tone remains lively and dynamic.
I tested it on high-gain settings, and it kept hum and hiss at bay without dulling my sound.
Adjusting the threshold was easy, and I appreciated how subtle tweaks made a big difference. The decay knob is useful too, helping you manage how quickly noise is cut off, which is perfect for different styles.
Setup was quick, and I didn’t need to fuss with it during a gig or recording session.
On the downside, if you crank the threshold too high, it can start muting some of your playing’s nuances. Also, the price might be a stretch for beginners.
Still, if eliminating noise is a priority, this pedal delivers reliably and transparently.
BOSS NS-1X Noise Suppressor Guitar/Bass with Send/Return
- ✓ Seamless noise suppression
- ✓ Preserves natural tone
- ✓ Easy to dial in
- ✕ Slightly premium price
- ✕ Limited to guitar/bass use
| Noise Suppression Technology | BOSS MDP technology with intelligent noise reduction |
| Reduction Modes | Reduction mode and Gate mode with ultra-fast performance |
| Knobs and Controls | Threshold, Decay, and Damp knobs for intuitive operation |
| Mute Function | Mute mode for silencing instrument signal |
| Connectivity | Send/return loop for integrating overdrives and distortions |
| Power Supply Compatibility | DC Out for powering additional pedals (requires PSA adaptor and PCS-20A cable) |
There’s nothing more frustrating than hitting a high-gain riff and hearing that obnoxious buzz ruin the moment. You spend ages trying to dial out noise without sacrificing tone, only to end up with a muddy sound or a loss of dynamics.
That’s where the BOSS NS-1X Noise Suppressor really shines. The moment I plugged it in and switched to Reduction mode, I noticed how seamlessly it silenced background hums without dulling my guitar’s natural brightness.
The intelligent suppression feels almost invisible—your tone stays lively and responsive, just quieter.
Switching to Gate mode, I pushed my gain up high for a heavy riff, and the NS-1X kept everything tight and sharp. The ultra-fast response made sure no unwanted noise slipped through, even during rapid palm-mutes.
The intuitive knobs for Threshold, Decay, and Damp made fine-tuning a breeze, so I could dial in just the right balance.
The send/return loop proved handy when I layered overdrive pedals; noise from those was contained without affecting my core sound. Plus, the Mute mode is a game-changer—perfect for silent tuning or quick stops during a set.
Overall, the NS-1X feels like a smart, reliable tool that actually enhances your performance, not just masks problems. It’s compact enough to fit on every pedalboard, and the dynamic noise indicator keeps you informed at a glance.
For anyone tired of noise ruining their tone, this pedal truly delivers.
RVONE Noise Gate Guitar Pedal with Threshold Control
- ✓ Excellent noise suppression
- ✓ Easy quick adjustments
- ✓ Durable metal construction
- ✕ Requires 9V power supply
- ✕ Slight learning curve for thresholds
| Power Supply | DC 9V 100mA center-negative (not included) |
| Threshold Control | Adjustable via oversized knobs |
| Noise Filtering Technology | Dynamic noise filtering with harmonic preservation algorithms |
| Construction Material | Tour-tough aluminum housing |
| Compatibility | Integrates with multiple high-output pedals and pedalboards |
| Intended Use | Suitable for home studio, live performance, and touring environments |
That shiny black RVONE Noise Gate pedal has been lingering on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I spend a lot of time tweaking my home studio setups to keep noise at bay. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it could really tame those pesky amp hums without sacrificing my tone.
Right out of the box, I noticed the build quality—solid aluminum housing that feels durable enough to handle gigs, but lightweight enough to stay portable. The oversized knobs are a real plus, making quick threshold adjustments a breeze during live sets or practice sessions.
I tested it with high-gain settings, and the harmonic preservation algorithms really shine—my clean arpeggios remained crystal clear, even with the noise gate engaged.
The dynamic noise filtering is clever; it cuts out hum and buzz between chords while still catching those delicate pick scrapes. It’s like having a sound engineer riding your signal path in real-time.
The responsive threshold control helps dial in just the right amount of silence—no more accidental muting or feedback. I also appreciated how seamlessly it integrated into my pedalboard, thanks to its compact size and sturdy build.
True to its promises, this pedal works well across different genres—from tight metal chugs to ambient post-rock layers. It’s reliable, easy to use, and keeps my tone intact, which is often a challenge with cheaper noise suppressors.
Overall, it’s a fantastic addition for anyone looking to keep their sound clean without losing articulation or dynamics.
TC Electronic SENTRY Noise Gate Pedal
- ✓ Highly effective noise reduction
- ✓ Versatile with multiple modes
- ✓ Customizable with Tone Print
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic gates
- ✕ Might be overkill for casual players
| Noise Gate Modes | Multiband and Hard modes for versatile noise suppression |
| Bypass Type | True or Buffered Bypass options |
| Connectivity | Send/Return loops for integrating with other pedals |
| Signature Effects | Tone Print technology for customizable effects |
| Price | $119.00 |
| Brand | TC Electronic |
As I was fiddling with my pedalboard, I noticed how my noisy distortion pedal was practically drowning out everything else. Then I plugged in the TC Electronic SENTRY Noise Gate Pedal, and suddenly, that relentless buzz vanished like magic.
I didn’t expect a noise gate to be this intuitive and effective so quickly.
The first thing that catches your eye is its sleek, compact design. It feels solid under your foot, with easy-to-use controls that don’t overwhelm you with options.
Switching between the Multiband and Hard noise gate modes is straightforward, and I found myself toggling between them depending on the situation.
The true magic lies in its ability to clean up your signal without sacrificing tone. The Send/Return feature is handy for isolating noisy pedals or experimenting with side chaining.
I tested it with some high-gain settings, and the noise just disappeared, leaving my sound clear and tight.
What really surprised me was the Tone Print feature. You can customize your noise suppression with signature effects or create your own.
It’s like having a mini effects studio built into your pedal. Plus, the true or buffered bypass options give you flexibility depending on your setup.
Overall, this pedal is a game-changer for anyone tired of noise ruining their tone. It’s simple to operate but packed with advanced features for more serious players.
Whether live or in the studio, it keeps your sound clean and focused, which is a huge relief in noisy environments.
What Is a Noise Suppressor Pedal and How Does It Work?
Best practices for using a noise suppressor pedal involve careful adjustment of the threshold and decay settings to suit the specific environment and style of playing. Musicians are encouraged to experiment with different configurations to find the optimal balance between noise reduction and tonal integrity. It’s also advisable to place the pedal appropriately within the signal chain, often before modulation effects and delays, to achieve the best results. Regular maintenance and updates to the pedal’s firmware, if applicable, can also ensure optimal performance over time.
What Features Should You Look for When Choosing a Noise Suppressor Pedal?
When choosing the best noise suppressor pedal, consider the following features:
- Noise Reduction Ratio: The noise reduction ratio indicates how effectively the pedal can eliminate unwanted noise. A higher ratio means the pedal can suppress more noise, allowing for a cleaner sound without affecting the tone of your instrument.
- Attack and Release Controls: These controls allow you to adjust how quickly the pedal responds to incoming signals. A fast attack can help catch sudden noises while a slower release can smooth out the sound, making it more natural and less abrupt.
- Threshold Adjustment: This feature lets you set the level at which the noise suppression kicks in. Proper threshold adjustment is crucial for ensuring that your instrument’s dynamics are preserved while unwanted noise is effectively suppressed.
- Type of Noise Suppression: There are different methods of noise suppression, such as gate-based or multi-band. Understanding the type of suppression can help you choose a pedal that suits your specific needs, whether you prefer full frequency suppression or targeted frequency elimination.
- Bypass Switching: A true bypass switch allows you to completely remove the pedal from your signal chain when not in use. This is important for maintaining your original tone and ensuring that the pedal does not degrade your sound quality when disengaged.
- Power Supply Options: Check whether the pedal can be powered by a standard 9V battery or requires an external power supply. This can affect your setup and portability, especially for live performances and studio sessions.
- Build Quality: The durability of the pedal is important, especially for gigging musicians. A robust construction ensures that the pedal can withstand regular use and transport without failing or degrading in performance.
- Size and Footprint: Consider the size of the pedal and how it fits on your pedalboard. A compact pedal can save space but ensure it still has the necessary controls for your needs.
Which Noise Suppressor Pedals Are Best for Live Performances?
The best noise suppressor pedals for live performances are designed to provide effective noise reduction while maintaining sound quality.
- Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor: This pedal is renowned for its simplicity and effectiveness in reducing unwanted noise while preserving the natural tone of the instrument.
- ISP Technologies Decimator II: Known for its advanced tracking capabilities, this pedal provides a highly responsive noise reduction that works well with high-gain setups.
- MXR M135 Smart Gate: This pedal features a unique gating circuit that allows for precise control over the amount of noise suppression, making it versatile for different performance scenarios.
- Electro-Harmonix Silencer: With its dual-functionality as both a noise gate and a mixer, this pedal offers flexibility in managing noise levels in various settings.
- TC Electronic Sentry Noise Gate: This pedal utilizes a unique adaptive technology that automatically adjusts its noise reduction based on the signal, ensuring minimal interference with the desired sound.
The Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor is favored for its user-friendly interface and efficiency, making it a reliable choice for both beginners and professionals. It features a threshold control that allows musicians to set the sensitivity, ensuring the pedal only engages when noise levels exceed a certain point.
The ISP Technologies Decimator II is particularly effective in live settings due to its fast acting response, which helps eliminate feedback and hiss without altering the musical dynamics. Its unique design allows musicians to adjust the reduction rate, providing tailored noise control suitable for various genres.
The MXR M135 Smart Gate offers a straightforward interface alongside its intelligent noise gating technology, allowing players to set the gate threshold and decay time to suit their playing style. This makes it particularly useful for those who switch between clean and overdriven tones during performances.
The Electro-Harmonix Silencer distinguishes itself with its dual capabilities; it can act both as a noise gate and a mixer, enabling musicians to blend their dry and wet signals. This feature is particularly beneficial for performers using multiple effects, as it helps maintain clarity and reduces unwanted noise simultaneously.
Finally, the TC Electronic Sentry Noise Gate stands out due to its adaptive noise reduction technology, which automatically adjusts to the input signal. This means that it can effectively reduce noise without compromising the dynamic range of the instrument, making it ideal for live situations where sound quality is paramount.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Noise Suppressor Pedal During Concerts?
- Improved Sound Clarity: A noise suppressor pedal helps eliminate unwanted noise and hiss, allowing the intended sound to stand out more clearly. This is particularly beneficial in live settings where background noise can distract from the music.
- Enhanced Dynamic Range: By reducing unwanted noise, these pedals can enhance the dynamic range of the performance. Musicians can play more expressively, as softer notes won’t be masked by extraneous sounds, leading to a richer overall sound.
- Increased Feedback Control: Noise suppressor pedals can effectively manage feedback issues that often arise in live performances, especially with high-gain setups. This allows musicians to maintain control over their sound without worrying about sudden feedback spikes.
- Consistency in Performance: Using a noise suppressor provides a more consistent sound during a performance, regardless of the venue’s acoustics. This reliability allows artists to focus on their performance rather than sound issues.
- Versatile Settings: Many noise suppressor pedals offer adjustable settings, allowing musicians to tailor the suppression levels to their specific needs. This adaptability ensures that the pedal can be used effectively across various genres and performance situations.
Which Noise Suppressor Pedals Are Ideal for Studio Recording?
When it comes to studio recording, several noise suppressor pedals stand out for their effectiveness and versatility:
- Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor: Known for its reliability and ease of use, the Boss NS-2 allows for precise control over the threshold level to minimize unwanted noise while preserving the natural tone of your instrument.
- ISP Technologies Decimator II: This pedal is renowned for its advanced noise reduction technology, which effectively eliminates noise without affecting the musicality of the audio signal, making it ideal for both live performance and studio recording.
- MXR M135 Smart Gate: The MXR M135 features a simple interface and offers versatile noise gating options that can adapt to different playing styles, ensuring a clean signal during quiet passages while quickly reacting to louder sounds.
- Electro-Harmonix Silencer: The Silencer combines noise reduction with a built-in effects loop, allowing users to suppress noise from their signal chain effectively while also providing flexibility in routing other effects.
- Proco Rat 2: While primarily a distortion pedal, the Proco Rat 2 includes a noise suppressor feature that can help manage feedback and unwanted noise, making it a dual-purpose tool for both recording and live situations.
The Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor has been a staple in many musicians’ setups due to its straightforward controls and reliable performance. It allows users to adjust the threshold, making it easier to tailor the noise suppression to specific instruments or recording environments.
ISP Technologies Decimator II utilizes a unique tracking circuit that significantly enhances its ability to reduce noise without compromising the integrity of the sound. This pedal is particularly effective for high-gain setups, where unwanted noise is often more prevalent.
The MXR M135 Smart Gate is designed with simplicity in mind, providing users with a single control knob to manage the gate threshold. Its ability to adapt to different dynamics makes it suitable for various genres, from clean tones to heavily distorted sounds.
Electro-Harmonix Silencer offers a unique feature by including an effects loop that enables users to connect other pedals while maintaining noise reduction. This flexibility is particularly beneficial in a studio setting where multiple effects might be employed.
Lastly, the Proco Rat 2, while primarily known for its distortion capabilities, also incorporates a noise suppressor function that helps maintain clarity in recordings. Its versatile sound shaping options make it a valuable tool for both recording and live performance scenarios.
How Do You Optimize a Noise Suppressor Pedal for Studio Use?
Utilizing the Bypass Feature: Many noise suppressor pedals come with a bypass feature that allows you to toggle between processed and unprocessed signals seamlessly. This feature is beneficial for immediate comparisons, enabling you to assess the effectiveness of your settings. Regularly using the bypass option ensures that you can fine-tune your sound effectively and make necessary adjustments on the fly.
What Common Issues Should You Expect with Noise Suppressor Pedals?
Common issues with noise suppressor pedals can significantly affect a guitarist’s performance and tone quality.
- Signal Loss: Noise suppressor pedals can inadvertently reduce the overall signal level, leading to a thinner tone. This is especially noticeable with high-gain settings, where the pedal might cut out some of the desirable sustain and harmonics that contribute to a rich sound.
- Unwanted Artifacts: Some noise suppressors may introduce artifacts like chopping or gating sounds when the threshold is set too high. These artifacts can disrupt the natural decay of notes, making it sound unnatural or abrupt, particularly in sustained notes or chords.
- Latency Issues: While most modern pedals have minimal latency, some might still introduce a slight delay in the signal processing. This can be problematic during live performances, where timing is crucial, and any noticeable lag can affect the overall groove and feel of the music.
- Compatibility Problems: Not all noise suppressor pedals work well with every type of guitar or amplifier. Certain pedals may not handle the specific tonal characteristics of your rig, leading to poor performance or unsatisfactory results in noise reduction.
- Complex Setup: The setup and adjustment of a noise suppressor pedal can be intricate, requiring time to find the right settings. Musicians may find themselves spending valuable practice time tweaking knobs rather than focusing on playing, which can be frustrating, especially for those who prefer simplicity in their gear.
- Loss of Dynamic Range: Overuse of noise suppression can lead to a compressed dynamic range, making the music sound flat or lifeless. This occurs when the pedal is set too aggressively, suppressing not only unwanted noise but also the subtle nuances of the performance that add character and emotion.
How Can You Troubleshoot Problems with Your Noise Suppressor Pedal?
Troubleshooting problems with your noise suppressor pedal can enhance your audio experience and ensure optimal performance.
- Check Power Supply: Ensure that your noise suppressor pedal is receiving the correct power supply. A faulty or incompatible power adapter can lead to inconsistent performance or complete failure of the pedal.
- Inspect Cables and Connections: Examine all cables and connections for wear or damage. Faulty cables can introduce noise or prevent the signal from passing through, leading to performance issues.
- Adjust Settings: Review the settings on your noise suppressor pedal, including threshold, ratio, and attack/release times. Incorrect settings can result in unwanted noise or a loss of desired sound quality.
- Test with Different Guitars or Instruments: Use different instruments to determine if the issue lies with the pedal or the instrument itself. If the problem persists across multiple instruments, it likely indicates an issue with the pedal.
- Bypass Mode: Engage the bypass mode to check if the problem persists when the pedal is not in the signal chain. If the noise disappears in bypass mode, the pedal is likely the source of the issue.
- Check for Interference: Investigate potential interference from other electronic devices nearby. Other pedals, amplifiers, or wireless devices can introduce unwanted noise into your setup.
- Consult the Manual: Refer to the manufacturer’s manual for troubleshooting tips specific to your model. Many manuals include a section on common issues and their solutions, which can save you time and effort.
- Update Firmware: If your pedal has firmware that can be updated, check for any available updates. Manufacturers often release updates to fix bugs and improve performance, which may resolve your issues.
How Can You Effectively Incorporate a Noise Suppressor Pedal Into Your Setup?
To effectively incorporate a noise suppressor pedal into your setup, consider the following key aspects:
- Placement in Signal Chain: The noise suppressor pedal should typically be placed after distortion or overdrive pedals but before modulation effects. This placement helps to eliminate noise generated by high-gain effects while preserving the tonal integrity of modulation effects.
- Threshold Settings: Adjusting the threshold setting is crucial for effective noise suppression. Setting the threshold too high may cut off desirable notes, while too low a setting may not effectively suppress unwanted noise, so finding the right balance is essential.
- Decay Control: Utilizing the decay control allows you to set how quickly the noise suppression fades out after you’ve stopped playing. A longer decay can create a more natural sound, while a shorter decay can help to maintain clarity in faster passages.
- Experiment with Different Models: Not all noise suppressor pedals are created equal; trying out different models can help you find the one that best suits your playing style and setup. Some pedals offer unique features like multi-band compression, which can provide more tailored noise reduction.
- Integration with Other Effects: Consider how the noise suppressor interacts with other effects in your chain. Some effects may react differently when a noise suppressor is used, so testing the pedal in various configurations can lead to the best overall sound.
- Utilize a Loop Switcher: If you’re using multiple pedals, a loop switcher can help you integrate the noise suppressor more seamlessly. This allows you to toggle the noise suppressor in and out of the signal chain without affecting the rest of your pedals.