Do I need a buffer ???

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There seem to be loads of Buffer discussions lately online and I'm a bit confused and would like some clarification please.

I've got the following board and wonder if it would benefit from a buffer ? :confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:

Guitar-10' cable-Sonic Research Tuner-Snow White Auto Wah ( swapped out with a Clyde Deluxe wah depending on gig ) -Boss CS-2-Keeley TS808-Analogman BiChorus- MXR noise Gate-12' cable -Amp.
I have a 30' Pete Cornish Cable in case the amp needs to be placed to the rear of a larger stage.

All Cable is Vovox.

I've got one rehearsal left before the gear is sent ahead for some foreign gigs so any suggestions would be very welcome.

Thanks :rock:
 
it wouldn't hurt but, not really.. you're only running about 15ft of cable before you hit the first buffered pedal (the cs2)

that being said, the buffer in the cs-2 isn't the best, but it is doing the job.
 
Turn all your pedals off
Play the guitar and listen carefully to the sound
Plug straight into the amp and listen to the way it sounds
Is there a noticeable difference between the two? If going through the pedal board kills off some high end a buffer will help. Otherwise you dont need one.

Doesnt look like you have a lot of pedals or cable length anyway...
 
Is the buffer in the Boss really that bad ?

I had mine modded and the guy told me that the buffer in these older Boss pedals was as good as it gets and his mod was designed to leave that aspect untouched.

The mod itself is fantastic.
 
wolf5150":2j64cary said:
Is the buffer in the Boss really that bad ?
Click to expand...
:yes:

This is a subjective call on your part and what sounds best to you. The Noise gate is probably more of a detriment to your tone in a way than not having a buffer IMO.
 
I've done the A/B test suggested above and there's def a loss from the board so I guess I need to investigate some buffer options.
The Barber one seems like a great idea if I can get it installed in one of my pedals.
As for the Noise Gate it is totally transparent.
I've tried them all and this one is by far the best.
I don't use it all the time but it's a total necessity for some of the venues I play. :rock:
 
wolf5150":1t3da034 said:
I've done the A/B test suggested above and there's def a loss from the board so I guess I need to investigate some buffer options.
The Barber one seems like a great idea if I can get it installed in one of my pedals.
As for the Noise Gate it is totally transparent.
I've tried them all and this one is by far the best.
I don't use it all the time but it's a total necessity for some of the venues I play. :rock:
Click to expand...

So now that you know there is an unwanted tone change, try swapping out the pedals one by one until you don't notice a tone change. If there is a particular pedal that is giving you issues that will show it clearly. It takes some work, but if you want to get to the bottom of it, that is a good plan.

Also try moving your boss pedal first in the chain and see what happens.
 
The only pedal that isn't true bypass is the Boss.
It's already placed in the ideal position, so seems it's time to shop for a buffer. ( I've got a TIM Buffer in a custom A/B box he made for me but unlike others, I hate it.. way too bright )
I've spent the afternoon researching buffers and the best appears to be the Pete Cornish but there's usually a VERY long wait with Pete ( I already have an old Soft Sustain in my studio )
I've e mailed him regarding one so I'll see what he says ( actually desire a smaller enclosure LD-1 with no battery option if he'll make one )
 
Even though the Boss pedal has the only buffer in your chain I'd bet it's whats causing your tone change...

I would remove it and test the board again. It thats it then try putting it first in the chain. Compressors dont like to be anywhere but first in the chain. At least the few I've had were like that...
 
The pedal order I have now is the the most common setup.
Wah's inc Auto Wah don't like being after compression.
 
i do a quality opamp buffer (the t1m is jfet)

theres a bunch of reviews of it on here, search for "stevia", or check out www.fallout-labs.com in the galleries..
it can be done standalone, or in an interface setup
 
wolf5150":3cm2xma6 said:
The only pedal that isn't true bypass is the Boss.
It's already placed in the ideal position, so seems it's time to shop for a buffer. ( I've got a TIM Buffer in a custom A/B box he made for me but unlike others, I hate it.. way too bright )
I've spent the afternoon researching buffers and the best appears to be the Pete Cornish but there's usually a VERY long wait with Pete ( I already have an old Soft Sustain in my studio )
I've e mailed him regarding one so I'll see what he says ( actually desire a smaller enclosure LD-1 with no battery option if he'll make one )
Click to expand...

Just trying to help. It sounds like you are dead set on getting a buffer, just trying to give you other options before you spend your money. :)
 
don't need a buffer... But upgrade the noise gate and get a ISP decimator already ;)


-Alex
 
The noise gate does rob tone when I'm lowering my volume pot so I'm talking with Casey about a possible small custom switcher. Road rage also offer a similar product but I've been unable to find any reviews on their buffer. You guys have been a great help and a few have recommended Casey so thank you.
 
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