Cheap Modelers!

[rsm]

IMO / YMMV here is my experience


I've used several modelers over the years, from early Tonelabs (desktop, SE, LE) to Axe-Fx Ultra (many others in between) and I still use my old preamps (now with a Torpedo CAB). I have several rigs now, including a few all-tube amps (Fender, Vox, Engl), what I call my "big rig" = G-System, TriAxis + Torpedo CAB with Nova Drive and EH Big Muff Pi w ToneWicker in the loops. I've also had several generations of Zoom modelers/multi effects, staring with the Zoom 9002 (I still have mine purchased new back in the day, even put a new battery in it a few years ago; this is the one that goes on the strap) to the G2 and G3 v1.

I have a Zoom G5 and B3. I'm getting tones I dig, and ease of use...so easy to dial in sounds; I have 10 patches in G5, 6 rhythm patches, 4 lead patches each setup for use as a pedal board (i.e., I can turn things on/off to make rhythm patches lead patches and vice versa, and add / remove effects...probably getting close to 25+ variations that I use. Same goes for the B3, and I plan to get the new Zoom "toy" B1Xon for bass since it has up to 5 slots per patch vs. the B3's 3 slots per patch. I've always liked Zoom, but the current products are really good for the price. I'd have no problem gigging these. My G5 can cover my Vox tones (official Vox nerd here, my favorite, I use Rics as my main guitars, and basses FYI) and get amazing saturation like my Engl tube rig (E530, E850, 2 x E212VH) with Mesa, Engl, Diezel, Bogner, Two Rock (pretty heavy if dialed in right), and even Krank and classic Marshall, Orange, Sound City, HiWatt.

If you are looking for a cheap modeler that delivers the goods (not at Kemper or Fractal levels obviously), give the Zooms a shot. They may surprise you. especially for high gain, I'd be interested in Diezel and Bogner owners to comment on the models in the Zoom G3/G5.

I may post clips of these some year, lol, need to work on my recording setup. Unfortunately, arthritis has made my shredding days history...sucks getting old, I hope to be able to still be playing in another 10 years lol

thanks for reading my drivel.

 

[Electric I]

Always managed to get at least a couple of good sounds from all the multis I/'ve own/ed. And the core tones are better & easier to get than ever.

Still, a tube amp remains part of the equation & feel no need for a change.

The wait continues for the right direct solution, though.

 

[Chris6870]

I use the G5. I have patches with effects and/or EQ only that I run in the loop of a Quick Rod or a Boogie MarkIV and then I have patches set up with amp and speaker cab sims for running direct through powered monitors. Then I also have patches set up for headphones. The Zoom is the only cheap modeler I found that does not color the sound in the loop. With all levels equal and no effects on, I can't tell a difference with it in or out of the loop. It's super easy to get good sounds out of too. I have Guitar Rig 4, Amplitude, Revalver, Pod farm, and Overloud and I don't bother with any of them anymore. In half the time i spend dickin around with them I could have a cool sound on the G5 already. The Zoom Multistomps are cool too.