Flanger

A flanger is an audio effect that creates a sweeping, comb-filtered sound by mixing two identical audio signals, one of which is delayed by a continuously varying amount. This delay, typically very short (a few milliseconds), causes phase cancellation and reinforcement at different frequencies, resulting in the characteristic "whooshing" or "jet plane" effect. The depth and rate of the delay modulation are adjustable, allowing for a wide range of sonic textures, from subtle enhancements to extreme psychedelic effects. The term originates from the practice of manually manipulating the flange of two tape recorders playing the same audio, a process which has since been automated through electronic and digital means. Modern flangers often offer additional controls such as feedback (which creates a resonant, metallic sound), manual control for real-time adjustment, and various waveforms for modulating the delay.

Flanger meaning with examples

• The guitarist engaged the flanger pedal, adding a swirling, ethereal quality to the solo. The subtle modulation created a sense of movement and depth, perfectly complementing the melody. The effect was especially pronounced on sustained notes, emphasizing the harmonic complexities and creating a mesmerizing soundscape. The audience was immediately captivated by the otherworldly atmosphere the flanger created, the sonic textures were amazing.
• In post-production, the sound designer applied a flanger to the vocal track, subtly thickening the voice and giving it a unique, textured quality. They carefully adjusted the depth and rate settings to complement the song's overall feel, ensuring the effect blended seamlessly with the mix. The flanger created a slight vocal 'shimmer' that enhanced the emotional impact, making the lead singer's performance stand out beautifully.
• The electronic music producer utilized a flanger on the synth pads, creating a hypnotic, swirling backdrop for the track. The intense, rapid modulation gave the pads a rhythmic, pulsating quality, driving the energy of the song. The producer experimented with the feedback control, adding a resonant, metallic edge to create a mesmerizing and complex sound, perfect for a psychedelic song.
• Using a digital audio workstation (DAW), the sound engineer implemented a flanger effect on the drums, creating a wide, spacious sound. The adjustments applied widened the perceived stereo image and added depth, giving the drums a dynamic and powerful presence. The engineer used various waveforms, from triangle to sine and saw tooth, to create different effects to achieve an overall sound.