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New: Zoom B3n Multi-Effects
- Thread starter CharlieC
- Start date
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- b3n multi-effects zoom
One year later and the G5n has recently received a major firmware update!
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I wonder if any B3n models are now available there, @jimfist ?
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I wonder if any B3n models are now available there, @jimfist ?
Nope. The firmware 2.0 update did a couple of things:
- added all of the new models introduced since last year into the firmware so that you don't need to resort to GuitarLab and individually download the new models/fx to your G5n
- optimized dsp to (supposedly) allow for 30% more efficiency so that you won't max out a signal chain as easily as before
They've also created a dsp chart for each effect/amp model/cab sim that allows you to calculate the amount of dsp that will be used (up to 100%). For example:
There are no new amps/cabs/fx in the firmware release that already isn't otherwise available, and there's very little else to note other than some implementation of a 2 button operation mode for the looper.
Not even released in the USA yet and we already have a new amp, cabinet, and effects for free download! 
Now available for download:
ZOOM Effect Processing Power Chart (for B3n)
https://www.zoom.co.jp/sites/default/files/products/downloads/pdfs/E_B3n_FX-power-chart.pdf
ZOOM Effect Processing Power Chart (for B3n)
https://www.zoom.co.jp/sites/default/files/products/downloads/pdfs/E_B3n_FX-power-chart.pdf
@CharlieC, how do you find this stuff? LOL
Interesting that the bass cabinets are have a cpu usage rating of 13 compared to guitar cabs in the G5n/G3n that have a rating of 9. I wonder if this has to do with the extended low end, or that maybe Zoom is using slightly longer impulses for the bass.
The bass amp models also are generally rated for a bit less (most in the 20s) than the guitar amp models (most in the 30s). I wonder what it is about the Bassman100 that has it using about 1/3 more cpu than the SVT and other models (except for the AC370).
The fact that the two largest cpu power ratings for drives are for the two DarkGlass models (B3k, B7k) is worth noting since I'm betting these will get a lot of consideration.
I do wish that Zoom would come up with a global setting that allows you to set the LEFT output to include Cab Sims (if in a MONO chain), while the RIGHT output does NOT get the cab sims. This would be very convenient for players who want to send their emulated sound to FOH, but are using a traditional cabinet on stage.
good stuff! Can't wait to get mine.
Very excited to see all the good news coming out about the unit!
There was a video on youtube from Zoom outlining the G3n. One of the posts indicated that you can't change patches (effects) when the looper is engaged? Can anyone verify this? Charlie?
Brent
Brent
I believe I remember reading the same thing somewhere.
Once I receive my B3n I will be able to verify
Speaking of that, I also suggested an idea to Zoom. Idk if they'll listen though. What I meant there was perfect fifth.
Looper and Rhythm modules are now considered insert effect units, not their own global entities like was in the B3. That is assuming the B3n will operate like the G5n (pretty safe bet). You can change patches, but the looper won't continue.
Do you think that was to save on processing power? I like the possibility of starting a drum beat with my toes but I would have thought many would have enjoyed the current looper function of the B3?
Brent
We can only guess as to the reason. My guess was that it was necessary in order to implement their new push toward better modeling. If the dedicated looper/rhythm module as a global feature ate up a significant amount of resources across the board, then that's probably the answer.
Think about it: if the Looper is a global function, that means it is eating up resources whether you are using it or not, and possibly at the expense of much higher resolution modeling. If that's the case, then I'm perfectly fine with this decision. That may be the ONLY explanation that would make sense to me.
Of course, I don't use the looper but rarely, so I don't feel the pain. I would say that if I were to be into looping, I'd likely use some other outboard looper if it were a huge part of my performances or an important songwriting tool.
This is why I sort of feel like the B3n isn't a great choice for those looking for a wildly flexible all-in-one pedal. However, a B3n combined with another multi-fx is a pretty potent combination IMO, and budget friendly, too.
For those fortunate to already have a B3n I am curious to learn if you downloaded the new Acoustic 370 amp model.
The actual Acoustic 370 amplifier has 9 possible parameters: Bass, Mid, Treble, Volume, and 5-bands of EQ where as the B3n has a maximum of 8 possible parameters. I wonder how Zoom addressed this? @lemueldave ?
The actual Acoustic 370 amplifier has 9 possible parameters: Bass, Mid, Treble, Volume, and 5-bands of EQ where as the B3n has a maximum of 8 possible parameters. I wonder how Zoom addressed this? @lemueldave ?
Hi. I was not supposed to update mine since I'm so busy at work right now, but I finally did it because now I'm curious. Please see the picture I got below. Also. Please see the capacity of the B3n in the GuitarLab. It just went from 35% to 38% after the first update. That may mean there are still a lot of things to look forward to!
Edit: Sorry I can't seem to flip the first photo, so here are the paramaters of the AC 370: Bass, Mid-F, Mid, Treble, Gain, Bright, Volume and Solo. Please take note that I haven't had time to test it, I just downloaded the updates.
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Thanks! This picture says it all.
It appears that Zoom created new MID-F sweep and GAIN params and also included the BRGHT switch/param that I had omitted in my count above. Having the MID-F would perhaps negate the missing 5-band EQ on the original equipment. Well done!
When you are able, please advise how it (and the 1x18 cab) sounds.
Cheers!
The actual Acoustic 370 has very peculiar frequencies selected for the 5 band EQ, otherwise, I'd just suggest placing one of the ZOOM graphic EQs between the amp model and the cabinet. It would be nice of ZOOM could include a simple 5 band EQ that emulates the Graphic EQ bands of the actual head, and for that matter, some of the other great heads Acoustic produced over the years:
