DigiTech Hardwire CM-2 (CM2) Tube Overdrive (and Bad Monkey Comparison)

blastjv · #1 11-04-2010, 09:30 AM

I just received this from a fellow TB-er and I am very impressed. I REALLY don't understand why this one does not get more love around here!!!

I compared it side by side with my Bad Monkey (Factory spec, not modded, I had a modded one and didn't notice much difference) which I love, through my trusty Acoustic B20 at home (I'll give 'em a whirl through the SVT rig tonight). The BM is maybe a touch smoother and rounder when set pretty much the same (CM2 on 'classic' setting), but the CM2 can get MUCH crazier and rivals my Agro for insanity, and is more over the top than my Xotic BB Bass)

I actually really like the buffered bypass of the BM. I'm really picky about bypasses. I would not say it is 100% transparent, though, to my ear it sounds great, and maybe rolls off the tiniest bit of the lowest lows, and also seems to add just a touch of compression. Both of these are benefits with my setup.

The CM-2 is true bypass, which is nice if you want that. And, it's made in the USA, which is also nice. VERY well made. I like the rubber boot to cover the knobs.

Time will tell if it finds a place on my board, but so far I'm very impressed!!!

-John

blastjv · #2 11-04-2010, 11:20 AM

Also, I wanted to point out, and ask if others have noticed this (or if it's all in my head):

I swear I hear a clean signal blended in the Bad Monkey, and I also hear it in the CM2 when it's in 'classic' mode, but not in 'modern'.

Anyone ever had that thought about the BM???

-John

cybersnyder · #3 11-04-2010, 11:42 AM

I only had the BM briefly, but I have a CM-2 and I really like it, especially with a P bass.

Mark Olson · #4 11-04-2010, 11:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by blastjv

Also, I wanted to point out, and ask if others have noticed this (or if it's all in my head):

I swear I hear a clean signal blended in the Bad Monkey, and I also hear it in the CM2 when it's in 'classic' mode, but not in 'modern'.

Anyone ever had that thought about the BM???

-John

Is your jazz active? A lot of times with active pickups or EQ and a dirt pedal the pedal isn't able to take the signal and gnarl it up as well as with a completely passive instrument, resulting in some clean sounding artifacts that don't really sound too natural.