Zoom B2 vs. B2.1U

MysticMichael · #1 08-12-2008, 02:33 AM

Ordinarily I like to avoid posting "vs." threads. But in this case, I'm curious to know your comparative experience of these two versions of the Zoom "B" series multi-effects units:

The Zoom B2

...and...

The Zoom B2.1U

In your experience, are the extra bells & whistles of the B2.1U (ex. expression pedal, Cubase and USB interface) worth nearly double the price of the more basic B2?

MM

Razorjack · #2 08-12-2008, 02:47 AM

No. I'd rather have 2 B2's than a single B2.1u.

ihateusernames · #3 08-12-2008, 09:26 AM

The USB alone is worth the price difference for me. I use it for practicing at the computer quite often. It's nice to get mp3's and bass all through the headphones.

The DI works very well too, it's nice to have everything in one tidy package sometimes. I don't use the expression pedal at all, as a matter of fact I keep all of my effects elevated to use hands instead of feet.

Factor in the pricing of these things used and it's hard to argue a sub $125 purchase for what you get. I'm not long away from updating to the B9....

Isn't the B2 in a plastic case as well??

Lync · #4 08-12-2008, 12:21 PM

If you are using it to gig, the B2 is nice since it is smaller and there is no need for the USB port. Being that you can program the expression pedal and there is also an available DI, the B2.1U could be worth the extra dough to someone though.

bassbrad · #5 08-12-2008, 04:45 PM

Yes! It's worth it because I don't have to carry a volume pedal, DI and other the added flexibility is all worth it.
I like having a control pedal built in even if I only use it for Volume most of the time. I play a lot of places thru the PA and an XLR out is a real convenience. I also do a bit of recording at home and several other places and the USB and XLR outs are very convenient.
I have a B2 that I use just for creating and saving synth sounds for a project I am in.

Marill · #6 08-12-2008, 07:33 PM

the unit can be powered by the USB as well, so if you're connecting it to your PC, you don't' have to mess with batteries or power adaptor.

MysticMichael · #7 08-18-2009, 05:56 PM

Bump for additional input...

MM

Jazz Ad · #8 08-18-2009, 06:26 PM

Absolutely if you need an expression pedal. Otherwise, no.
Cubase comes free with pretty much every audio interface and USB isn't that useful when you have phones out.

conundrum · #9 08-18-2009, 08:23 PM

Lower latency. Though Asio4all is free, and it's silly you can't use the usb for editing patches on the b21u.