Octavider: MXR vs EBS

[JC JC]

Recently AB'd an MXR bass octave deluxe with an EBS octabass?
Please comment.

Thanks, JC

[Jared Lash]

I didn't have them at the same time, but I've owned the EBS (actually 2 - I just bought another one) and the MXR.

In short, the EBS is smoother sounding and the MXR is more versatile.

The "Growl" knob of the MXR is essentially the same as an OC-2 so it is very synthy and distinct. The "Girth" knob is big and thick but indistinct. By blending them (and using the mid switch if you want to cut through a bit more) you get a range of sounds.

The EBS on the other hand has three octave sounds but you can only use one at a time. They have their own tone, but all of them are smoother than the MXR's "Growl"/OC-2 sounds.

Tracking is more or less the same between the two. The MXR is a little bit better on the lowest notes and the EBS is more forgiving in terms of hitting more than one note at once.

Personally I kept the EBS (and an OC-2 on my other board) but it's really just a matter of personal preference.

[stflbn]

I've owned both, as well as OC-2, OC-3 and the new Aguilar Octamizer.

Personally I feel the best octavers i've played through are in the newest update on the Line6 M9 and M13. Bass Octave down, octave up, or pitch change. Mix and match as you see fit.