Best amp simulator?

Gaetano Paul · #1 01-18-2010, 08:37 AM

I am looking for some input on the highest quality, cost sufficient, amp modulator/ floor pedal type unit. Was thinking the B2? What I am doing is pluging straight into the house PA, so need the quality amp sim, effects quality dont really matter, good limiter would be nice, but not terrible important?

tdogg · #2 01-18-2010, 08:46 AM

ive run my BOSS GT-6B straight to the house multiple times with good results everytime. it has cab and amp simulators and compressors and limiters. i would necessarily call it "high end". but its one-stop-shopping.

dannybuoy · #3 01-18-2010, 08:53 AM

The B2 actually has pretty decent amp sims in it, but I (and in a minute plenty of others) am going to say Tech 21 VT Bass!

ga_edwards · #4 01-18-2010, 10:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tdogg

ive run my BOSS GT-6B straight to the house multiple times with good results everytime. it has cab and amp simulators and compressors and limiters. i would necessarily call it "high end". but its one-stop-shopping.

Having used one for a number of years, personally I think the amp sims in the GT6B are dreadfull. They're ok clean, but push them into overdrive to get a 'tube warmth' tone, and it sounds like horrid, harsh digital clipping.

My Zoom B9.1ut sounds much smoother with a more realistic warmth when pushed hard. However, I can't vouch for accuracy in the simulations, as they don't try to mimic the controls, it's more ball park 'colour'. My little Korg doesn't sound half bad either.

For top notch amp sims though, if you're not bothered about fx, I'd say go for one of Line 6's bass offerings or for simplicity (and only ampeg tones) the VT Bass.

Gaetano Paul · #5 01-18-2010, 03:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ga_edwards

Having used one for a number of years, personally I think the amp sims in the GT6B are dreadfull. They're ok clean, but push them into overdrive to get a 'tube warmth' tone, and it sounds like horrid, harsh digital clipping.

My Zoom B9.1ut sounds much smoother with a more realistic warmth when pushed hard. However, I can't vouch for accuracy in the simulations, as they don't try to mimic the controls, it's more ball park 'colour'. My little Korg doesn't sound half bad either.

For top notch amp sims though, if you're not bothered about fx, I'd say go for one of Line 6's bass offerings or for simplicity (and only ampeg tones) the VT Bass.

What is your "little Korg?"?????

ga_edwards · #6 01-18-2010, 03:07 PM

2 little Korgs actually

A Pandora and an AX3B. They are ok, a little more natural sounding than the Boss, but I wouldn't recommend them for what you're after.

Pruitt · #7 01-18-2010, 04:26 PM

Line 6 Bass POD XT Live. I've had mine for a few years and like it a lot. You can pick them up fairly cheap here in the Classifieds from time to time. I've seen a few listed there recently.

SteveC · #8 01-18-2010, 04:28 PM

The Pod X3 is pretty darn nice.

Gaetano Paul · #9 01-18-2010, 04:38 PM

Anyone know what the difference is between the Zoom B2, and B2.1u. I am thinking of going with theses, preferably the cheaper one!

LowWay · #10 01-18-2010, 04:48 PM

I'm pretty sure the difference is just the expression pedal.

Crystalman85 · #11 01-18-2010, 05:07 PM

The korg ax3000b has some good amp and cab models. and it has a pretty good limiter. also, it's very useful for studio recording and live performances.

ksandvik · #12 01-18-2010, 05:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LowWay

I'm pretty sure the difference is just the expression pedal.

Yep. If you absolutely need a wah-wah/volume plus other similar expression changes, B2.1u. Otherwise B2. B2 takes much less space, too.

cheapbasslovin · #13 01-18-2010, 05:49 PM

The B2.1u also has a USB out and a DI. It can be pretty handy, but if you have a DI or other usb recording device then the B2.1u is unlikely to do a better job.

Good luck.

Gaetano Paul · #14 01-19-2010, 07:54 AM

Does the Zoom B2 and the Zoom B1 have the same caliber amp sims?

cheapbasslovin · #15 01-19-2010, 08:10 AM

I can't attest to the sound of the B1 vs. the B2, but I can tell you from experience with some of the older Zoom units that the additional controls on the B2 are well worth the additional cost. The two knob patch control is maddening. The four knob patch control can be frustrating at times, but only having two knobs may make you want to turn it into a hockey puck. If you buy it used it is almost a no brainer.

Gaetano Paul · #16 01-19-2010, 08:24 AM

Thanks man!

ksandvik · #17 01-19-2010, 10:58 AM

BTW, Zoom announced G2Nu/G2NU.1 at NAMM last week so there's a chance there's a forthcoming B2Nu as well...

dannybuoy · #18 01-19-2010, 11:01 AM

Wow, not heard of this - here's the homepage:

http://www.zoom.co.jp/english/products/g2nu/index.php

If a bass version of this lands I think I might be interested!

ksandvik · #19 01-19-2010, 11:03 AM

Yes, I think I will get a G2Nu or the G2.1Nu when they are around, got my G1 for $50 (used) and it's been to many, many jams. Nice to have a small package that you could take on stage and control the guitar sound with unknown guitar amps. Same with the B2, small and practical.

Gaetano Paul · #20 01-19-2010, 12:24 PM

Wow G2un thing looks sweet. I love my G7.1ut, such awesome sounds. Just went ahead and got the B2 @ Sam Ash this morning and I'm loving it. Thanks for all your help guys! I was tempted that the B1 cost half the price, but went with the B2. Also excited about possible teaming it up with the G7.1ut on stage with the giutar. Maybe us it as an extra boost here and there, possible a dedicated delay as well. The amp sims are sweet!

Thanks again guys!