How to Do a Pinch Harmonic (false Harmonic or Squeal)

Last Updated: June 29, 2021

Learning to recreate sounds on your guitar that you hear in songs, can be difficult. The "squeals" guitars sometimes make is call a "pinch harmonic." Here's wikihow to do a pinch harmonic (false harmonic or squeal).

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Electric Guitar

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In standard tuning a really simple one of these is on the 12th fret, any string.

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Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Acoustic Guitar

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Community Q&A

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Question

When do I use the tremolo handle to do a pinch harmonic?

Community Answer

You typically hold it, and then give it a nice vibrato after you do the pinch harmonic. Or you can bend the string right after the harmonic, and it will give it a similar effect

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Tips

More distortion tends to create a more full-sounding squeal. A squeal done with minimal distortion will not have any sustain, and will die very quickly, whereas a squeal done with ample distortion will allow you to manipulate and hold the note out longer.

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Whatever you do, don't give up because it doesn't work at first. Try moving around with your picking hand to find a better spot.

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A great example of a guitarist that used pinched harmonics is Dimebag Darrell Abbot.

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Things You'll Need

Electric guitar
Good amp with distortion turned up, as well as the treble up
Patience
Maybe an overdrive pedal
Pick

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How to Do a Pinch Harmonic (false Harmonic or Squeal)

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Electric Guitar

Acoustic Guitar

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Tips

Things You'll Need

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