Advice on effects...

Lark · #1 08-25-2011, 04:56 PM

Hey guys,

Im looking to expand my effects range. I currently own a MXR M80 and a Digitech BSW. Im wanting to add a fuzz, compressor, tuner and another filter. I have some pedals in mind and want to know what you guys think. Here are the ones i have in mind:

Tuner - Korg Pitchblack
Fuzz - MXR El Grande
Compressor/Limiter - Boss LMB3
Second Filter - EHX Bass Balls

Down the track i would like to add an Octave (MXR BOD) and maybe a chorus.

I just want some advice, as due to where i live i dont have huge access to music stores with every pedal, only the common brands. I have been relying on YouTube videos.

My main concern is the LMB3. It seems the best for its price, but im not necessarily sold on it yet. Im looking for something that is going to add some punch without effecting the tone too much. My technique isnt really a problem, i just want a consistency in my dynamic range at times. I have read BongoMania's pages, but still havent decided.

If it helps, i play a four string acoustic, and a five string electric. I want effects that are going to versatile, as i am a versatile player. I play through and amp at home, and DI in my band.

Any sugestions or advice would be great.

Thanks guys!

HolmeBass · #2 08-25-2011, 05:07 PM

Filters are all very different, lot's of different characters out there. I'd try the new MXR filter out, and maybe the Source Audio one if you get a chance. Then the more exotic ones like the 3Leaf Groove Regulator, or the MuTron III+, lot's of variety out there. Also consider EHX's QTron or QTron+.

DeltaPhoenix · #3 08-25-2011, 05:13 PM

A little more info about the sound you are after would be helpful. Of course I guess I should say Searching in the effects forum would help you find clips of all kind of effects. Personally, I don't like (or think I would like) most of the pedals you have listed. The M80 is pretty good, the pitchblack is good, I use a MXR 288 BOD and I like it, other than that not really digging what you have up there. For fuzz, Iron Ether Oxide is sweet, I have heard a lot of good stuff about other fuzzes. I think an Iron Ether Xerograph (maybe Deluxe version) is a way better second filter, it has 2 pole and 4 pole. For cheaper there is the Source Audio Bass Envelope Filter (2 versions) it is supposed to be sweet, of course there are many more. I have no experience with a compressor/limiter besides what is built into my amp. Good luck and enjoy the journey.

Lark · #4 08-25-2011, 05:25 PM

Hey Delta,

I have been researching alot of distortion and fuzz pedals on YouTube. I wasnt really into any of the Muffs or the other Blowtorch. Boss Overdrive is ok, but not fully into it.

I guess my main question was about Compressors and what would suit me most.

The sound im looking to emulate (not replicate!) is a mixture of Justin Chancellor, Chris Wolstenholme and Dan Briggs.

Ideally in the future HolmeBass, i would get a QTron, but i think the Bass Balls is pretty cool.

M Sterling · #5 08-25-2011, 05:43 PM

I would agree with Delta on the Xero Deluxe for the filter. Spend the money and get something that is crazy versatile and can fit into almost any situation (funk, synth, dub/hip hop, crazy, and everything in between).

For compressors the main three I would recommend would be, MarkBass Compressore (nice tube compressor, adds punch and beefs up the mids), the MXR Bass Compressor (very versatile, transparent, small, sturdy), or the new 3 leaf audio Pwnzor (don't know much about it, but everything 3 leaf makes is equivalent to beautiful titties).

Fuzz wise, the Oxide is a great Muff alternative and is also very versatile. Check out these companies: Iron Ether, CopilotFX, Small sound/Big sound, fuzzrocious, and many others.

DeltaPhoenix · #6 08-25-2011, 05:45 PM

Check out bassfuzz.com for demos of stuff that is a bit more obscure, lots of good stuff to see on there. Honestly, when I am researching effects, I type the name of the effect and read the really long threads, in those thread other effects of the same type are mentioned, and links are often available to hear recordings or youtube demos. Also check long threads like "Best Bas Fuzz" and read, read, read.

SoonerMatt · #7 08-25-2011, 06:37 PM

Check out Compressor Reviews for compressor info. Bongo writes awesome reviews and gives recommendations for all budgets.

Lark · #8 08-26-2011, 06:26 AM

Thanks for all of the advice guys!

I will definately be checking out the Fuzz and Filter pedals you suggested.

I have read through BongoManias reviews and they are a great help, but i was looking for more first hand experience and different points of view. Everyone has different opinions on effects.

any thoughts on the LMB3? I do like the MXR compressor, but i think for the money, the Boss may be a better alternative for what i am after. By all means disagree, as that is the feedback i am looking for.

As i said, i am looking for a Tool, Muse, BTBAM type of sound on my 5 string, and nice strong warm sound on my acoustic.

DeltaPhoenix · #9 08-26-2011, 07:13 AM

I am suprised no one has mentioned trying a nice multieffect unit. I mean you get a chance to learn about effects, what different parameters do, plus it should have a tuner built in. Maybe Line6 M-9. For the price of the pedals you listed you can get this.