A preamp pedal boosts the guitar signal to line level before it reaches an amplifier, shaping the tone and adding warmth, character, or gain. Preamp pedals can be used to simulate the sound of an amplifier’s preamp stage, providing overdrive, distortion, or clean tone shaping. They can also be used to drive amplifiers harder or to add tonal colour and EQ adjustments. Some preamp pedals are designed to mimic classic amp sounds, such as those from Fender, Marshall, or Vox, while others offer more modern, transparent tones. Well-known preamp pedals include the Tech 21 SansAmp, Electro-Harmonix Soul Food, and MXR M81 Bass Preamp, making them a useful tool for tone shaping in both live performances and studio work.