Amp modeling - multi effects

bassguppy · #1 07-03-2008, 10:50 AM

Thinking of picking up a multi effect for rehearsal, recording, etc. Will run through the PA.

My criteria I'm looking for mainly amp models where I could have 5-6 good go-to models from clean to tubey to gritty to distorted. As for other effects they would be a plus but not the primary function that I want. I know Line 6 is for the most part the choice for amp models but which one? I don't mind spending an extra $100-$150 for much more versatility.

I'm also not technically saavy and I lack patience sometimes so that should play a little in my decision. I don't mind spending a few hours or a day learning but after that I get frustrated.

Will also consider any other brands out there (Boss, Korg, etc...).

ihateusernames · #2 07-03-2008, 10:54 AM

Search for ZOOM B2.1u here, should suit your needs great.

dannybuoy · #3 07-03-2008, 10:57 AM

I used a Zoom B2 on my last gig when there was no bass amp and it sounded awesome. The amp models on that little thing take some serious beating, and I bought the thing for £25 second hand. Keep your eye out for a used one and you'll have a bargain that you can sell on at a later date if you don't get on with it. Only drawback is there's a bit of a learning curve and it's a pain to tweak on the fly, say you want to adjust your eq, you have to switch modes and select the correct knob etc. I've not used a POD but I have a Line6 Lowdown amp, and I prefer the modellig on the Zoom to that. The new Zoom B9.1ut looks interesting, has a tube built in and more knobs etc but nobody round here as one yet as far as I know and I think it may be overkill.

My next purchase is gonna be a VT Bass to perform the same job, but easier to use and with hopefully a better sound.

bigchiefbc · #4 07-03-2008, 11:30 AM

In my experience, most multis can do modulation stuff pretty well, but most of them stunk at amp modeling. From what I've read around here, the Line 6 PODs are really the go-to multis for decent amp modeling

the_fonz · #5 07-03-2008, 11:48 AM

+1 to the Zoom B2
amp modeling is just about the only thing i use it for anymore

dbcandle · #6 07-03-2008, 11:55 AM

In my opinion: for effects, go with Boss. For amp-modeling, go with Line6.

Swift713 · #7 07-03-2008, 12:01 PM

The B2 is a decent modeler for pretty cheap. It's very flexible and tweakable but not so much on the fly.

Nyarlathotep · #8 07-03-2008, 12:44 PM

POD is ok for amp modeling, but as I've stated in previous threads on this subject: Their suck point is the cab/mic stage. They model 3 dynamic mics and don't give you the option of turning off the mic modeling without turning off the cab stuff as well. I get a more punchy tone out of my 15W 8" combo amp and my Samson C01U condenser microphone.

Kinda sad IMO.