Quality comparison: WOBO/Loop-Master/Loooper/Barge/etc.

[B3bopbass]

Are all loopers created equal?

Besides aesthetics, are there clear advantages to be had with one brand over another? Aren't they all making the same stuff using the same available parts?

 

[Jazz Ad]

Loop Master and Loooper are similar. They use true bypass switches with the signal going through them and are all passive. It's the cheapest way to get a good result. Engaging the switch requires a serious push on the buttons and it can sometimes make a hearable click.
WOBO use electric relays to switch signal paths. The signal part is passive but relays need electricity to work. Switches are very smooth.
Barge use buffers in the signal path to adjust impedance and allow clean blending.

 

[andrewd]

I'll let you know when I get my Loop-Master Mini A/B: http://www.loop-master.com/product_info.php?products_id=83

 

[bongomania]

WOBO seems to have a much higher level of electronic design know-how. Barge is coming on strong lately though, with improvements to their fx clones and their buffered blender. Otherwise they're all just using the same Taiwanese parts and the same assembly techniques.