Boss Multi-Effect processor- I have several questions

[andruca]

The modules approach is terrible and anything but state of the art. You cannot use 2 effects from the same module. They even usually repeat a whole MOD/FX module so you can use 2 effects within those, a pathetic attempt. People simply chain pedals these days (and probably been doing so for the last decade or more), you can even repeat the same pedal many times in the chain if you want. My disenchantment with Boss started some 15 years ago when I ditched the noisy and mediocre sounding GT6B in favor of a Zoom 708II that did a WAY better service to me for years. I remember I was upgrading from an ME8B (later I bought one back) and was really disappointed. The ME8B was really decent, still keep it, has some of the best synth bass and auto wahs I've ever used (then again, in the same module, so you aren't able to combine any 2 of those, but that was acceptable when they released it in the early '90s and it simply didn't hiss nor did its tone suck as much as the horrible GT6B). I have a Zoom MS60B now and won't even imagine ever going back to Boss multiFX, simply too far behind (not that it's anything new, been like that for the last 15 years at least).

 

[Rilence]

it has an Octaver effect that can raise and lower the octave? Or just lower?

Both.

Also, if you do end up getting one, you might find this utility useful Boss GT-1B Patches

Edit (for clarity) - from the manual:

OCTAVE
This adds a note one octave lower and a note two octaves lower,
creating a richer sound.
Parameter Value Explanation
-1 OCT 0–100 Adjusts the volume of the sound one octave
below.
-2 OCT 0–100 Adjusts the volume of the sound two octaves
below.
D.LEVEL
(DIRECT LEVEL) 0–100 Adjusts the volume of the direct sound.

PITCH SHIFTER
This effect changes the pitch of the original sound (up or down)
within a range of two octaves.
Parameter Value Explanation
PITCH -24–+24 Adjusts the amount of pitch shift (the
amount of interval) in semitone steps.
D.LEVEL 0–100 Adjusts the volume of the direct sound.
FINE -50–+50 Make fine adjustments to the interval.

 

[JW56789]

For Boss, I prefer the ME50B: More expensive obviously, but it's a metal case and it's all knobs. I don't have to endlessly scroll through screens to do / get what I want. I can look down and SEE where everything is set. Old school, but then, so am I.

 

[Kerem Koseoglu]

General speaking; individual analog pedals are expected to sound more organic than digital pedals. But some of your individual pedals are digital anyway.

 

[Skybone]

If you are just looking for an effects processor, then have a look at the Line6 M9/M13 pedals, as well as the Zoom B3 (old model) & B3n (current model).

 

[nilorius]

https://www.musiciansfriend.com/amplifiers-effects/boss-gt-1b-bass-multi-effects-processor?rNtt=Bass multi effect&index=1


Would this be a good purchase if I want to replace my individual pedals with just one piece of equipment? I don’t use effects on a regular basis, but I have a chorus pedal, overdrive pedal, flanger pedal (all Boss), and a Mooer Tender Octaver pedal.

Can several effects be used at once, like flanger and overdrive at the same time?

Are there other useful features besides effect pedals?

The link is wrong !!!

 

[Kevorargh]

I've had the BOSS GT-10B for many years and I love it for what it does. Multi-Effects, in general, allow for multiple effects to run at the same time. On my BOSS, I can run a compressor, pre-amp, overdrive, chorus, wah, and two other effects at the same time. All have at least 3-4 parameters that can be tweaked. You can run a separate EQ for each patch and control the level. You can rearrange the order of effects, and assign certain effects to turn on and off with control pedals. My BOSS is large, and built like a tank, and the tuner mutes when you switch it on. I don't use it live any more, as I currently have no need of it for the live music I play, but it was instrumental for my solo bass stuff I did years back.

BOSS is pretty good gear, I'd recommend it. Compared that what people are saying about the ZOOM, it is a big learning curve, but well worth it IMO.

I don't know about ZOOM's pedals since the last one I used was 20 years ago, and it was pretty simple to use, but not a lot of flexibility, and a cheap sound, but that was one of the first forays into multi-effects that was available. I also had the Digitech BP50 (I think) and that was a step up, but not to the level of BOSS.

 

[Jazz Ad]

Zoom has led the game for many years. I tried the Boss GT1B last year and didn't like it one bit. Many seem to enjoy it though.
To me Zooms sound serious as soon as you turn them on. They never feel toyish.

 

[Skybone]

I wouldn't say they "lead the game", but they have certainly offered the best "bang for your buck" units out there.

 

[AlexBassMP]

For Boss, I prefer the ME50B: More expensive obviously, but it's a metal case and it's all knobs. I don't have to endlessly scroll through screens to do / get what I want. I can look down and SEE where everything is set. Old school, but then, so am I.

I plug my old ME50B from time to time for practice at home..just for fun. I use my Zoom B1on more than the Boss...

I played live with it a few times.. I stored a few patches for different songs and it did the job.. but switching presets during the song was a pain in the *ss. I hated that gap between presets...so I ended using a Sansamp and a Zoom MS60B

I don't use it in memory mode anymore.. I use it more like a classic pedalbord.. I set an fx for every slot (octaver/overdrive/flanger) and I turn'em on and off...