Need some help to finish off my rack

ataraxia · #1 01-06-2010, 03:44 PM

So I have a 6 space rack with a line 6 HD400 and a furman power conditioner, this leaves me with 2 spots left to fill so I need a little help filling the gaps.

My current rig is either an ESP TA400 or a Spector Performer into an x2 wireless unit (with the pedal reciever) into a MXR phase 90 directly into the head. I play thrashy metalcore ( www.myspace.com/ataraxia1 ) primarily using my clean tone, but occasionally turning on the distortion, phaser, or octave. I have a bbe sonic maximizer, but the line 6 head doesn't have an effects loop, and I don't know if its worth it just to run in front of the head. I was kind of hoping there was something better to use my 2 rack spaces for other than putting rack panels in it, even if its just visual effects like a colored led bar or something.

any suggestions?

lobey · #2 01-06-2010, 03:48 PM

You could try the BBE before the amp and see if it makes a difference. No harm in trying is it?

Anyways, I'd suggest a rackmount tuner which are typically one space. That'd fit perfect with the BBE.

Otherwise, I'd recommend a 2 space drawer to store cables, batteries, extra strings, and so on.

ataraxia · #3 01-06-2010, 09:38 PM

The head has a built in tuner which I access with the footswitch.

the rack drawer is a pretty good idea though.

walker rosewood · #4 01-06-2010, 10:45 PM

+1 to rack drawer. I'd add to your considerations a rack compressor, usually one space like the DBX 160A. Or maybe a 31 band graphic eq. There are also 'fake' rack gear out there. They're just a faceplate with lights and knobs, but no real function.

Stuggi · #5 01-06-2010, 10:53 PM

Blanking plates, vent's, lights etc. would work. Also consider a locking rack drawer, you don't want it sliding in and out when you move the rack. A tuner would be nice, depends on how good the one you have is, Peterson and Korg makes nice tuners.

ataraxia · #6 01-06-2010, 11:01 PM

Found a company that makes 2 unit rack fans with built in leds for pretty cheap... I think that's the route I'm going to take... I'll be sure to post a pic once I figure it out

gastric · #7 01-07-2010, 06:53 AM

Or just downsize to a smaller, lighter rack.

Rickett Customs · #8 01-07-2010, 06:55 AM

Yessir get a rack tuner, since you have the room for it. Perhaps a compressor, DBX 166 or 160a?

ataraxia · #9 01-07-2010, 08:53 AM

the head itself has a built in tuner (accessible from both the head and from the footswitch). It also has an amazing compressor.