Overdrive vs Distortion

Both professional and aspiring guitarists should learn about the difference between overdrive and distortion. In order for you to play your instrument better, it is a must to familiarize yourself with these basic terms. So, when do you need to create a distortion or an overdrive effect when playing your instrument?

First, here’s a quick definition of the two terms. Just like gain, overdrive and distortion are terms used when a guitarist creates a sound effect while playing his instrument. It can either add or distract from the overall tone that your guitar makes, which is why it is a must for you to practice, and determine the difference between the two.

It may be a bit difficult to describe what the actual sound of your guitar will be like, but there’s a general description that can be used. Overdrive produces a smooth and warm, but a bit distorted sound. If you listen to how a tube amp is cranked up, that is a similar sound that overdrive produces.

Distortion, on the other hand, has a variety of effects on the sound of a guitar. It can produce a fuzz-like effect, or a full-on sound of a death metal band. There are as many varieties of distortion as there are guitar players ‘“ because it depends on a player’s individual style.

There are two types of distortion produced: Digital and analog. With digital distortion, the sound produced has a raspy noise to it, while analog distortion is a classic tone that you can hear played by rock bands.

Moreover, distortion is the sound produced by heavy metal, classic rock and heavy rock bands. With overdrive, the sound is generally more bluesy. Pedals are the equipment used on a guitar to create these effects ‘“ and choosing the right one is all a matter of a guitar player going with what feels right with a song.

Summary:

1. Overdrive is a guitar effect created with pedals, while distortion is also a sound effect created with pedals attached to a guitar.

2. Overdrive is a smooth and warm, but distorted sound, while distortion is a range of tunes which can be unnoticeable, or as loud as the sound from a heavy metal band.

3. Overdrive has a bluesy sound to it, while distortion lets you go back to your true rock roots.

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