What is the Difference Between Flanger and Phaser?

06/02/2025 • Maryella Faratro

Flanger and phaser are both modulation effects used in music production, but they work differently and have distinct sounds. Here are the main differences between them:

  1. Method of processing: Flangers split the input signal into two, with one of them being time-delayed and then put back on top of the original. In contrast, phasers duplicate the original signal and pass it through an all-pass filter, which introduces a phase shift around a set frequency without changing the frequency content of the signal.
  2. Effect on sound: Flangers create a sense of movement and depth, often described as a "jet engine" sound. Phasers, on the other hand, produce a more subtle, swirling, or swooshing effect.
  3. Frequency vs. time-based: Phasers are frequency-based effects that work by altering the phase of the signal, while flangers are time-based effects that work on a time delay.

To summarize, flangers create a more metallic, jet engine-like sound by doubling the input signal and adding a time-delayed version on top of the original, while phasers produce a more organic, swirling effect by processing the signal through an all-pass filter and introducing phase shifts. Both effects can be found in analog and digital versions and are used in various music genres and instruments. To develop a better understanding of the differences, it's helpful to experiment with both flanger and phaser effects and listen to examples in various recordings.

Comparative Table: Flanger vs Phaser

Here is a table comparing the differences between flanger and phaser effects:

Effect Flanger Phaser
Signal Processing Splits the signal into two, with one being time-delayed and then put back on top of the original Duplicates the original signal, sends it through all-pass filters to produce a phase shift, and mixes it back with the dry signal
Delay Flangers most often use a delay of around 15 ms or less Phasers do not rely on time-delay, but instead create a phase shift
Sound Flangers can create a more wild and unpredictable effect Phasers typically produce a more gentle, subtle effect with a clearly repeated 'swooshing' cycle
Uses Often associated with guitar effects, particularly in the 60s and 70s Phasers are known for creating a "synthesizer" effect and are popular in various music genres

Both flangers and phasers are time-delay effects, but they process the signal differently. Flangers create a more wild and unpredictable sound, while phasers produce a gentler, subtler effect.

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