Diezel Columbus and Loop Switching Options

[jimistheman]

Hey Guys,

I currently have a Diezel Columbus switcher that I've been using with my Herbert and Hagen heads. I'm in the process of building my first pedalboard, and have what I hope are a few basic questions. Is there a recommended option for using the Columbus with a loop switching pedal--for example--using the Columbus with a product to turn loops on, off, etc. I love the way the Columbus works and feels--I'd just love to use it as the brains with another loop switching product to turn loops on/off, etc. Have any of you done this before and what product do you recommend--Voodoo Labs, something else? Thanks in advance!!!

Jim

 

[steve_k]

The Columbus will do program change messages only (as determined by bank/preset number) and send on only one (MIDI) channel at a time. Things like assigning PC's to rack FX is fairly easy and straight-forward and will work easily with the Columbus. Loopers/switchers are a little different in that you have to tell them what to do and what to look for. Most have to be set up with a controller and cannot be set up at the unit itself. This is where you will run into problems with the Columbus. If you had a rack FX unit and the amp only, you could easily program patches from the FX unit and amp and assign to presets on the Columbus. Loop select, along with amp/rack FX changes will be difficult. Probably possible, but a lot of trial and error going into it.

 

[jimistheman]

The Columbus will do program change messages only (as determined by bank/preset number) and send on only one (MIDI) channel at a time. Things like assigning PC's to rack FX is fairly easy and straight-forward and will work easily with the Columbus. Loopers/switchers are a little different in that you have to tell them what to do and what to look for. Most have to be set up with a controller and cannot be set up at the unit itself. This is where you will run into problems with the Columbus. If you had a rack FX unit and the amp only, you could easily program patches from the FX unit and amp and assign to presets on the Columbus. Loop select, along with amp/rack FX changes will be difficult. Probably possible, but a lot of trial and error going into it.

Thanks for the great info, Steve. Sounds like I might be better going the rackmount route (or at least midi controllable pedals, huh)?

Jim

 

[steve_k]

The Columbus will do program change messages only (as determined by bank/preset number) and send on only one (MIDI) channel at a time. Things like assigning PC's to rack FX is fairly easy and straight-forward and will work easily with the Columbus. Loopers/switchers are a little different in that you have to tell them what to do and what to look for. Most have to be set up with a controller and cannot be set up at the unit itself. This is where you will run into problems with the Columbus. If you had a rack FX unit and the amp only, you could easily program patches from the FX unit and amp and assign to presets on the Columbus. Loop select, along with amp/rack FX changes will be difficult. Probably possible, but a lot of trial and error going into it.

Thanks for the great info, Steve. Sounds like I might be better going the rackmount route (or at least midi controllable pedals, huh)?

Jim

Depends on how much you need or want to do with FX. I can get on well with just an ambient delay and some modulation from pedals in the loop of a Diezel straight off the pedalboard. But, if you want something with a bit more to offer, a rack FX unit straight into the loop is the way to go. No looper/switcher needed and the only other pedal you may want is a boost in front of the amp off your pedalboard. Less is often more when setting these things up. If you aren't absolutely married to some special pedals, think about forgoing a looper/switcher and grab a TC G-Major II or something similar. I have an old US made Rocktron Intellifex that I like. Easy to set up and assign program numbers to. Use the loop bypass on the amp to kick the unit in and out as needed. There's also an FX bypass on the units themselves. Run your rack tuner out of one of the channel inserts on the VH4 and assign it on the Columbus.