Zoom G3

[rsm]

I've been digging Zoom since I got the 9002 new back in the day. More recently, I had a G2 which I've since upgraded to the new G2.1Nu (should have purchased the G2Nu as I'm not using the pedal much).

At NAMM Zoom announced the G3. Anyone else interested?

Somewhat limited, like a Line6 M9 with amp models, only 3 effects at a time (including the amp). I need to review the detailed specs to see if it will work for me, but the price is right. Sweetwater has the best info / pics so far:

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/G3/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=PPC&utm_campaign=guitars&utm_term=zoom_g3&gclid=CIv2p7ORx6YCFRRg2godIg_6Gg

[desdinova]

My thoughts exactly on the similarities with the M9.

I like Zoom in general and have a G1Next to take on the road, lessons, etc. Sound quality is not at the same league as, say, Digitech products of similar prices, and I hope they've upgraded their hardware/software for the G3. But Zoom has very nice editing software and serving as a soundcard too, is a bonus.

I would consider the G3 both as a backup rig and for quickly laying out tracks both at the home studio and while on the road. It's price seems right for what it does.

[guitarnet70]

at 199$ you can take 2 and have 1 1/2 M13 for the price of an M9....if it sounds good...

[RafterRattler]

at 199$ you can take 2 and have 1 1/2 M13 for the price of an M9....if it sounds good...

I agree....and the adjustments look easier than with the M9 because of the dedicated displays and knobs. My M9 will likely go on sale.

I've always liked Zoom's sound, even though they've had some problems with the stigma of being low end. I still love some of the tones I recorded with my 505II back in 2003. I will definitely be checking this unit out...

[guitarnet70]

at 199$ you can take 2 and have 1 1/2 M13 for the price of an M9....if it sounds good...

Actually taking 2 would be even more flexible: 1 in front with comp, dirt and eq and 1 in the loop with mod, delay and reverb...midi connected for patch change..does they have midi?

[rsm]

The G2 sounded very good to me, and the G2.1Nu sounds even better. If you want vintage, organic clean or crunch I'd say look elsewhere, but for modern pristine (not sterile, but very SS) clean and distortion, the Zoom sounds great to me.

I know they are classified as low end, and I get my fix with my "better" or more costly gear (brands in my sig), but for situations where my vintage tube tones and high end effects aren't a good fit, the Zoom more than fills the gap.

Good to see some Zoom love around here. I also see that Mustaine has a a model, the G2DM and a few other sig versions are coming out...marketing gimmick, I know but still good to see Zoom trying IMO.

I plan to get the G3. One of the things that limits the G2 for me is the inabilty to bank down (I have the external footswitch which only does bank up), the inability to bypass the factory banks (my TCE Nova System has this feature), and the inability to randomly select presets.

A MIDI in where I could use my MIDIMouse to randomly select presets would be a huge improvement for my use...I can use presets without needing individual effect on/off, but to do so I need random access to presets.

I may sell the G2.1Nu and get a G2Nu (smaller footprint) and a G3 which I hope will fit on a small board. Then, get a loopmaster to have 2 loops, mono out, stereo in for each channel and be able to switch between the 2 Zoom boxes; use one and get the other ready for the next preset I need etc...maybe use the G2 for lead tone presets, and the G3 for rhythm where I can have a dist/od, clean amp and reverb and turn the dist/od on off as needed...no good option. All it would take is MIDI in IMO, can't be that difficult or expensive! Are you listening Zoom? Or Samson?!

[Electric I]

Even though I don't use my g2 anymore, I have a soft spot for zoom going back to the gfx-707. Got a lot of mileage outta that thing & I can't bring myself to part with it.

So I'm always interested in what they bring to market & have to wonder:

is the g2nu the same as the g2, only with 'better' od/dist ? And are they noticeably improved ?

And does the g3 have the same algorithms as the g2nu ? What about cab sims ? If memory serves, this was a weak link in the g2 & one of the reasons I shelved it.

[googoobaby]

I thought the G2 effects sounded very good and am happy to see the G3. The amp modeling/distortion leaves a little to be desired though, but I had a soft spot for their Marshall 1959 model.

[rsm]

Even though I don't use my g2 anymore, I have a soft spot for zoom going back to the gfx-707. Got a lot of mileage outta that thing & I can't bring myself to part with it.

So I'm always interested in what they bring to market & have to wonder:

is the g2nu the same as the g2, only with 'better' od/dist ? And are they noticeably improved ?

And does the g3 have the same algorithms as the g2nu ? What about cab sims ? If memory serves, this was a weak link in the g2 & one of the reasons I shelved it.


They tweaked the models, and did away with a few of them replacing them with more modern high gain options IIRC. I sold my G2 awhile back so I didn't have it to compare to the G2.1Nu.

From the pics of the G3, I'd say the tweaked the options...for example, in one pic the FD Combo amp has Gain, Treble, Mid, Bass controls, maybe more as I noticed there is a "Page" button; on my G2.1Nu, all I have for the amps are Gain, Tone, Level and I have to use the EQ for tone shaping.

I'm hoping they provide more effect and amp options with more parameters...still no MIDI though :( I'm resisting preordering until I read the manual.

[rsm]

Even though I don't use my g2 anymore, I have a soft spot for zoom going back to the gfx-707. Got a lot of mileage outta that thing & I can't bring myself to part with it.

So I'm always interested in what they bring to market & have to wonder:

is the g2nu the same as the g2, only with 'better' od/dist ? And are they noticeably improved ?

And does the g3 have the same algorithms as the g2nu ? What about cab sims ? If memory serves, this was a weak link in the g2 & one of the reasons I shelved it.

The Nu replaced some of the vintage gain optiopns with more modern options, and they tweaked it overall...it sounds a bit better to me. but I sold my G2 awhile back and don't have it to compare to the G2.1Nu.

The G3 looks like it is getting better tweaking, for example the FD Combo amp (and other Drive models) on my G2.1Nu has Gain, Tone, and Level controls and I have to use the EQ to tone shape. In a pic of the G3, the FD Combo has Gain, Treble, Mid, Bass controls and maybe more as I noticed a Page button. Hoping they tweaked the effects and provide more of them with more parameters...still no MIDI control though. :(

[sahhas]

this looks interesting, i wonder how much delay time it has, wish zoom would put up the manual on their site, i just checked, not there yet.

[HillbillySims]

I was only able to find one video of the G3 on Youtube... sounded terrible. Hopefully it was just a bad recording & bad demo... Ive always liked ZOOM

i have a couple ZOOM 9150 Valve DSP processors & they are awesome

[guitarnet70]

i have a couple ZOOM 9150 Valve DSP processors & they are awesome

I had one of that together with an ADA MP1 in the old rack times...16u...by back is happy about modelers!

[guitarnet70]

I was only able to find one video of the G3 on Youtube... sounded terrible.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBukXyRTLDo

it really sounds like crap...tuning the guitar before the demo would have helped as well....:facepalm

[vapor]

Good grief that was a terrible demo. Hopefully we can hear something soon that at least uses a tuned guitar. Looks interesting given the features and small foot print.

[HillbillySims]

If thats the Namm video....if I was ZOOM... I would FIRE that guy that did that DEMO... you should hire a good guitar player & at least someone that tune their guitar to do demos at Namm

[guitarnet70]

Probably he forgetten that he should have began demoing the functionality of the tuner function....:jo

[Will Chen]

Assuming this has the same core processing and algorithms as the G2.1nu, the higher gain amp patches sound much better than the lower gain from a modelling perspective. The pedal modeling was as good IMHO as Digitech's offerings with an overall lower self noise floor when fed into the front of an amp. However, IMHO the best thing about the G2.1nu's effects were its modulation and time based stuff and how you had a limited ability to stack things up, this looks to take that concept even further. Agreed that if that guy worked for Zoom, he should be fired. That is the only sneak peak of the unit and based on it I get the feeling most would pass, I know I would.

[jhall]

I have a Zoom G2. from a few years ago. It is still to this day a useful. Though I rarely use it it's not because you can't get really good tone out of it but because I have too many toys. The patch changes are so fast as to be instant. It is an Excellent EFX pedal for what it is and in the right hands is capable of excellent tone.The new one (with three switches) unless they did some upgrade to the modelling, is just a new box wrapping an already good product. Now if it has usb to computer editing and usability as a stand-alone VST plug it would be a deal-maker to me. I have one of Zooms C5.1t USB interfaces with the ZOOM ZFX3 engine and it is fabulous but will only run on 32 bit platforms so it is relegated to my living room computer running Windows XP-32 bit. If the G-3 is running THAT engine AND has the same editing skin AND will runn on 64 bit systems I'd be glad to have one.

[ToneGrail]

It looks like a lot of things have been addressed since the G2 series came out.

I like the fact that the G3 has the ability to scroll through banks without having to scroll sequentially through every patch.

A couple things I am hoping that will be addressed:

1) I hope that the cab sim is able to be defeated on the 1/4 inch outputs and left active on the XLR. What I've been doing is running my Digitech RP into a Behringer GI-100 so I can run a cabinet-simulated signal to the board and the non-cab-simulated signal to the power amp in on my guitar amp. This would allow me to ditch the GI-100.

2) I also hope that the 1/4 outs are switchable between instrument level and line level. The G2 was only instrument level. It doesn't have enough output to drive a power amp on it's own. Also the patches weren't voiced for that. It seems they were voiced for either the front of an amp or patching directly to the mixing console (with the cab sim turned on).

I'm hoping for some kind of amp/line switch similar to the POD.

[rsm]

:bumpbump

Still digging my G2.1Nu, so I may be getting a G3, though I will read the manual first to be sure!

Just sold my Tech 21 Programmable Bass Driver DI for bass, hoping Zoom will release a B2Nu soon...otherwise I'll get a B2.

Doesn't compare to my tube amps or my TC Electronic kit, but I'm having waaaaaay too much fun with a $199 box like the G2.1Nu. :JAM

YMMV

[bauera14]

I will never purchase another zoom product as long as I live. I've had nothing but problems with all of them that I've owned and played through. I had a Zoom 505 multi effect pedal back in the day and it caused nothing but trouble. it had a horrible buzz and quickly stopped working all together. I found out a wire came loose inside the unit and was fixed by a professional (i didn't trust myself to fix it on my own). Later, the pedal quit again, only this time it was because of the board actually burning in a completely different spot from the initial issue. I do not recommend these products to anyone.if you want multi effect processors go with Line6 or Roland, these are the best that I've used.

[eschoendorff]

I had a Zoom Driver 5000 back in the day that was pretty fun. It was actually my first distortion pedal.

Ive not been super impressed by anything that Zoom has offered lately, but I do plan to chech out the Mustaine model.

[voss451]

I used to own a GFX-8 and the effects on it were great. The amp sims on the otherhand couldn't hold a candle to the Pod.

Since it's in the same price range as the RP255 it'll have some stiff competition but the display looks a lot more user friendly on the Zoom than the RP. In my opinion, Zoom has always been good to novice players looking for a mfx pedal but not wanting to spend a fortune. I think they'll always do well in that market because the Pod/Boss/Digitech units in that price range don't have much in the way of an interface whereas the G2.1 (and now the G3) have a much nicer looking and much more friendly looking unit, which can mean a lot when you're just starting out and don't know much about programming mfx pedals.

[The Guy]

i picked up a G2 for 50 bucks. i have a little vintage rickenbacker ace with nothing besides an input and volume and i wanted something simple for practice with it. it really blew me away. I am looking forward to this G3 of which you speak!

[6stringgrind]

I have the George Lynch G2. It's amazing what you get for the price.

[Bar-B-Kill]

I have the G2, love it! The Mesa Mark III model really sounds good through my amp. Its great for a lot of reasons for me. Its small footprint, fits nicely on my board. It works very well with my other effects, and when I need to be quite, I plug in my headphones. I thought about checking out the updated model, but I still like this one. For now it stays.

[Beatles4ver]

I have the new G2Nu and love it. It's a blast, and once you get the hag of it, using the edit and share program is FUN to play with. I've even had it hooked to my laptop and change levels and module when tuning a particular patches sound. I have lots of highly regarded pedals and I go back and forth. There is even a web site/ forum with what? 500 user provided patches..I've snagged some of those. There where patches for 8 to 10 Pink Floyd players that where esp well done. Then there are guys who design and sell patch bundles if you wish to go that route. Lot's of fun...love it!!!!!!!!!!!

[HillbillySims]

I love HAG... merle haggard...... I gotta have the G3 now

once you get the hag of it

[eriwebnerr]

I'm really interested in this pedal. I'm surprised at the lack of info on it though. It's in the sweetwater catalog but not on the samson or zoom japan website. Strange. Any one have new info??

I'm really wondering if the amps and effects are new or ported over. From what I've heard, I wasn't too impressed with the low to mid gain tones on the older units. Super clean and high gain sounded good though.

But in any event, it really looks like they got the interface right. 3 huge LCDs for $199, the sturdy construction and the 40 second looper! But as was mentioned I really want to read the manual first.

On a side note, I know people use the year as an excuse for everything BUT, it's 2011 and I was really beginning to wonder about LCDs on modeling units. I know they are more expensive but it really shouldn't be that hard. When the latest Line 6 processor still barely beats to the LCD on the Johnson Millennium, it really seem kind of silly.
Thank you Zoom at least for 3 dedicated LCDs on a 3 button pedal still for $199!

[Electric I]

With that horrible namm 'demo' & the lack of an online manual, I gotta wonder why zoom isn't pushing this thing.

Hire a good player, get the best sounding patches you can muster & put it out there.

:huh

[HillbillySims]

I hope Zoom is reading this... they could have found 20 joe blows in my town who would have done a better demo. These manufacturers need to setup a decent amp.. or recording setup to capture the tones well also...

[roachone]

Im a zoom g9 user, LOVE IT, but man Zoom really has not shown me much in the last few years. How many times can you reinvent the G2??:(

[rsm]

roachone, agree for the most part, but they are making incremental improvements. I miss a few things from the G2, but the Nu is an improvement IMO.

I need a bit more floor control, at least a MIDI in so I can use my MIDI Mouse to navigate...the preset up/down is limiting, I added the footswitch and that just lets me bank up...and there's no way AFAIK to bypass the factory banks.

I'm looking forward to the G3 release, though I will read the manual to see if it offers more foot control and added value. A G5 (5 models per preset) would be perfect for my needs (caveat: based on reading the manual first...they haven't released the manual yet)

[sahhas]

by chance does anyone have one of these or have tried one out?
just curious.

[ToneGrail]

Still not released...impatiently waiting...

[sahhas]

ah, still not out, i thought this thing was available...that would explain the silence.....

[vintage saddles]

Heard from Sweetwater yesterday that expected delivery is June 10, but not to hold my breath. Really interested in this for the same reasons I'm interested in the M9 -- looper and modulation effects. That it's a USB interface is a bonus. Easy price at $200 considering.

[ksandvik]

I will never purchase another zoom product as long as I live. I've had nothing but problems with all of them that I've owned and played through. I had a Zoom 505 multi effect pedal back in the day and it caused nothing but trouble. it had a horrible buzz and quickly stopped working all together. I found out a wire came loose inside the unit and was fixed by a professional (i didn't trust myself to fix it on my own). Later, the pedal quit again, only this time it was because of the board actually burning in a completely different spot from the initial issue. I do not recommend these products to anyone.if you want multi effect processors go with Line6 or Roland, these are the best that I've used.

I have a beaten Zoom G2 that just keeps on ticking ticking ticking.... Same with a beaten Zoom B2 that keeps on ticking ticking ticking.... After 300+ gigs.

[hading]

For those waiting to take a look, the manual for this is online now.

G3 manual (http://www.zoom.co.jp/products/g3/downloads/)

[Lution]

it looks very cool!

[rsm]

For those waiting to take a look, the manual for this is online now.

G3 manual (http://www.zoom.co.jp/products/g3/downloads/)


Thanks!

[fly135]

Well, Jun 10th has come and gone.:(

Was hoping to maybe use a $30 off $199 purchase at Sam Ash's Father's Day sale.

[Will Chen]

Still not released...impatiently waiting...
Heard from Sweetwater yesterday that expected delivery is June 10, but not to hold my breath...
Well, Jun 10th has come and gone.:(

I don't mean to point out the obvious, but Japan had a major earthquake in March and was recently teetering on the brink of a nuclear meltdown. I imagine there have been a great many interruptions in workforce availability and the supply/manufacturing chain.

[omniwest]

I received the G3 earlier this week. This pedal is a clear step forward in terms of ease of use and sound quality. The New floating point chip allows ZOOM to put the same modeling software previously only available on a computer into a dedicated pedal. The amp modeling is very responsive and the tube control deliver the mojo very nicely. What ever your previous impression of ZOOM may be in terms of pedals take a listen to the G3 before you pass judgement. Zoom could have easily charges way more IMHO and to some degree some players may pass over it due to its low price. Their loss.

This pedal works well as a Stomp modeling on my pedal board and equally for direct silent practice and recording using the amp modeling.

I also like have the drum machine when using the looper, making it dead easy and fun..

I dig the the G3. Check it out.

[fly135]

Just picked up mine.:)

[reverend5]

Agreed omni, I picked one up last week and really wasn't expecting it to sound as good as it does, they seem to be heading in the right direction with this unit. To me it sounds as good as most other units Iv'e tried and owned, they could have charged $349.00 for it.

[Lution]

What outlet are you TGPers picking these up?

[reverend5]

Got mine @ Sam Ash

[Lution]

locally or online? I see that Sam Ash online is out.

[rsm]

Good to see some love for Zoom here. Good to see the G3 is an improvement over the G2. FWIW, still digging my G2.1Nu, but I want a G3...most online places still don't show them in stock? Who has them?

Seems like there are limits to the processing on the G3 though, wonder how often/quickly that happens?

I think I'll wait and see if a new G9 with dual zfx-4 processors, no tubes and a more live friendly foot control layout is in the works.

[fly135]

Local Sam Ash only had the one display unit that I bought. Turkeys threw away the box.

You do see the limit on the processing hit quite a bit. I haven't really sat down and figured out the details on this. I think if you have two amp models it seems to always show DSP full. But I believe other combinations do it as well.

[reverend5]

No not really, from my understanding of it so far, it's just one amp model and two effects,
but there are a few effects that take more processing so with those few you'll get just one amp and one effect. you'll see as you scroll through it what you can and can't use. for the most part you'll get an amp and two effects. I like the fact that even after you create a patch you can reorder the effect chain, and switch on and off effects or scrolling through patches is quicker than anything iv'e encountered.
I'm sure this unit won't effect sales of stuff like the HD500 or AxeFX but what you do get sounds really nice.

[fly135]

You get three effects, and the amp model is one of them. You don't have to have an amp model and can have 3 other FX.

If you had to have an amp model it would have really messed up the versatility of the G3.

[HillbillySims]

Ok so.. for real.. how does the sound quality of the G3 compare to something like a Vox Tonelab.. or Boss ME-70.. etc. For me, thats what I want to hear.

[erikm5150]

Does the G3 have a "preset mode", where the 3 footswitches call up presets instead of individual effects?

[fly135]

Yes it has presets. There are no presets for each individual stomp. A preset changes all three.

Hillbilly, I think you'll find the sound quality is good. Unfortunately everyone's ear is different and everyone's priority on what is more important is different. I haven't really had a chance to do serious A/B comparisons with my other gear.

[Milo]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8rDygcdjTo&feature=channel_video_title

This is a very good demo of the G3. Its in japanese but you can really hear the quality of the amps and efx (well some of them anyway) + a short jam with looper and drums. In the very last segment of the video they jam it direct signal in cubase (i think) This video sold it to me. Lets hope some of our own TGP-owners post something soon. Please do : )

[reverend5]

Hey Hillbilly, Iv'e been using a tonelab st for almost two years and love it for what it is
very good amp models but just ok effects, I also picked up the new EX version which I think will go back now that I have the G3. In comparison to the Vox I find the amp models in the G3 hold up really well to the Vox, somehow using the tube knob in the model section really warms it up with a nice compressed saturation. I have also found the cabinet models that will default to the corresponding amp aren't always my favorite, for instances I'll mix the Matchless amp with a Blues 2x12 cab for a better result, and they sound very articulate.As far as the effects go, there is no comparison the G3 is way ahead IMO, way more quality, quantity and control. I'm even contemplating using 2 of these for six full featured stompboxes with an expression pedal and calling it a day!
Another thing I found is I could not get a good wah sound until I switched the order of the effect chain to the wah pedal being first in the chain, now it sounds great.
But as we all have different needs check one out when you can.

[uburoibob]

The cool part about the G3 is I was able to use my Ernie Ball 25k volume pedal jr as an expression pedal with a standard stereo breakout cord. And the thing that makes it better than the M9 to me is that unless you assign a Wah or other control to a pedal in a patch, the expression pedal acts as a volume pedal WITHOUT using one of the three slots to do it. A HUGE plus in my mind. Still comparing the two, but leaning toward the G3 right now.

Bob

[fly135]

The 3 clips Baldwin Park, Outta Town, and Some Bird in my soundclick link use the G3 drums and looper. I was using batteries and sitting in a local park jamming out with headphones. No matter how good or bad people think the G3 sounds (I think it sounds good) the drums and looper is awesome for practice.

Outta Town has the Z'Organ and auto-wah. Some Bird kicks in the auto-wah around 2:15. Acoustic sim for rhythm on Some and Outta.

[Rena Rune]

Can you use the expression pedal to dick with various Parameters like on the M9?

I wish due to the lack of slots it had a basic reverb on the amp models. I hate played dry but there aren't enough slots not to.

[6stringgrind]

Can you use the expression pedal to dick with various Parameters like on the M9?



Yep.

[fly135]

Can you use the expression pedal to dick with various Parameters like on the M9?I don't believe so. The M series allow every paramter to be controlled all at the same time. IIRC the G3 only allows a very limited set of parameters.

[Rena Rune]

That's a real shame. Not that big a deal though, as I'll have an M9 and the effects on the G3 are interesting enough without having to use it(unlike the M9).

[uburoibob]

First night with the G3 by an M9 owner:

1. Volume control doesn't use up a pedal slot. Unless you assign control to a specific parameter in a patch, such as a Wah or delay or vibe, your pedal can be a volume control at the global level. This is a HUGE plus.

2. Amp simulations are pretty dang great. The HiWatt and Orange are pretty incredible.

3. There are some effects that combine effects, such as reverb and delay, chorus and delay, chorus and reverb, etc. So you can actually get what sounds like more than 3 effects.

4. USB. I haven't used the editor yet. That comes tonight. But just the ability to edit in a GUI is a plus over the M9

5. Patch switching is about as cumbersome as the M9 but in a different way

6. I can use my Ernie Ball Jr 25k volume pedal as an expression pedal with a standard stereo y breakout cable

7. The big one: NO VOLUME DROP WHEN YOU SWITCH IN THE EFFECTS FROM BYPASS!! This one thing drives me nuts about the M9. Going into a nice tube amp, you lose that little bit of pre gain that makes the guitar sound SO good.

Anyway, still shaking it out - tonight I will be programming my own patches - but so far it's very impressive and stands a chance of being an M9 alternative.

Bob

[Milo]

First night with the G3 by an M9 owner:

1. Volume control doesn't use up a pedal slot. Unless you assign control to a specific parameter in a patch, such as a Wah or delay or vibe, your pedal can be a volume control at the global level. This is a HUGE plus.

2. Amp simulations are pretty dang great. The HiWatt and Orange are pretty incredible.

3. There are some effects that combine effects, such as reverb and delay, chorus and delay, chorus and reverb, etc. So you can actually get what sounds like more than 3 effects.

4. USB. I haven't used the editor yet. That comes tonight. But just the ability to edit in a GUI is a plus over the M9

5. Patch switching is about as cumbersome as the M9 but in a different way

6. I can use my Ernie Ball Jr 25k volume pedal as an expression pedal with a standard stereo y breakout cable

7. The big one: NO VOLUME DROP WHEN YOU SWITCH IN THE EFFECTS FROM BYPASS!! This one thing drives me nuts about the M9. Going into a nice tube amp, you lose that little bit of pre gain that makes the guitar sound SO good.

Anyway, still shaking it out - tonight I will be programming my own patches - but so far it's very impressive and stands a chance of being an M9 alternative.

Bob

Good read and very true. I love my G3.

[Henky]

4. USB. I haven't used the editor yet. That comes tonight. But just the ability to edit in a GUI is a plus over the M9

Well you're in for a bummer; there is no editor (yet).

[radix]

i'm letting go of my POD HD400 because of G3.

For my usage, it simply gets me there much quicker than the Hd400. With the HD 400, the endless tweaking simply eats up the playing time. But with the G3, i actually start to play much more, and i don't think the tone is not much far off.

Come to think of it, maybe the DSP modelling power between the G3 and HD400 is in the same league after all, the price difference being attributed to all the extra IOs and chasis and switches and marketing /advertising costs that Line6 has.. :)

The looper on the G3 is also much easier to use due to quantisation and visual of the loop position.

Just one thing though, with a overdrive pedal into a high gain amp, the noise level is unbearable (loud hissing), i have to add a noise gate infront which very effectively kills the noise, but than i loose one slot. this doesn;t seems to be the case with the hd400..well, i can't ask for everything, can i. :)

[uburoibob]

Well you're in for a bummer; there is no editor (yet).

As I discovered...sadly

Bob

[desdinova]

For my usage, it simply gets me there much quicker than the Hd400. With the HD 400, the endless tweaking simply eats up the playing time. But with the G3, i actually start to play much more, and i don't think the tone is not much far off.


If they actually managed something as good as a HD at that price point, I'm really looking forward to any forthcoming replacement to the G9.

[Rena Rune]

The noise gate thing puts me off the G3 alright. I think they were two strict with the 3 stomp rule. Should have been a global noise gate - very simple to do DSP wise.

I like Single Coils, so this is a bit of a bummer to me.

[Henky]

I think they were two strict with the 3 stomp rule.I agree, you really got only 2 options:
Add the G3 to an existing pedalboard or buy 2.

[Rena Rune]

Two things would have really saved the unit for me -

1) Reverb with the amp models. Basic, simple early reflective algorithm so you don't have to play dry(hate this).
2) Global Noise Gate & EQ

I can use it with the M9, but the problem is, where do I put the M9? The M9 has some great overdrives, and lots of Wahs, so before? Or after for Reverb? But then I can't use the Overdrives. It's such a shitbag. I'll end up having to swap them around live which will be a nightmare. Maybe I'll just use some light dirt on the Zoom so reverb & delay still works okay, ala the Edge. Which blows since the ADA MP-1, Orange and Mesa would be awesome to use for gain.

[uburoibob]

But the M9 doesn't have those things either - heck, it doesn't have amp models at all. I agree, Global NoiseGate and EQ would be nice. For the reverb thing, I find the combo effects of Delay/Reverb, Chorus/Reverb, Chorus/Delay, Comp/Chorus, etc, very useful for day-to-day settings. I generally hate noise gates cuz they kill the quiet fades and make attack etc kinda weird, so that doesn't bother me so much.

Not sure HOW you'd use them together unless the entire chain was in front of the amp, each effect box through a mixer rather than feeding into each other. You'd have to be disciplined in how you plan on using each set of patches. Or, run into both of them, but use them one at a time rather than together?

For me, so far for my type of playing, I am liking the G3. I haven't yet put the M9 on the block yet. We'll see.

Bob

[Rena Rune]

KEep in mind I'm using it for a lot of crazy effects.

For example, I like gated fuzz, so I'd use the "Dirty Gate" into a Fuzz Face or similar, into an amp model, into reverb so I'm not playing dry.... but I've run out of slots so I can't do that.

I think it's a shame, a tiny bit more processing power for another $10-20(believe me, $10 would get you quite a bit more these days for what these chips probably cost) and they could easily have put in basic reverb into the amp models, global gating(both types) and EQ.

I'm still leaning towards getting the HD500 as opposed to the M9/G3 combo.

[guitarnet70]

I would try to put the G3 in the loop of the M9, so you could easily put fx before or after amp model...just an idea...

[Rena Rune]

The M9 has no loop. It's a bastard. I could get both the HD and Zoom, but that'll work out costly, it'll be a while before I can afford both. New guitar takes preference.

Just a thought - how is the G3 as an audio interface? my Mobilepre is a little too noisy and doesn't have the best latency. If the G3 is actually a good audio interface, then it wouldn't be a big deal to use VSTs on top of it. I'd rather not though as it might screw with my ableton loops.

[Wesman61]

So am I the only one interested in getting this for putting in an amp loop? I'm thinking of going back to analog dirt and wah and using the G3 in the fx loop for delay and mod fx. At $200 it seems like a steal for that.

[SeeMoore]

So am I the only one interested in getting this for putting in an amp loop? I'm thinking of going back to analog dirt and wah and using the G3 in the fx loop for delay and mod fx. At $200 it seems like a steal for that.

Thats what I'm thinking, in the loop of my VHT Ultra, if it will stand the gain of the amp going through it I'll use the amps overdrive, if not, I'll just set it clean and get a pedal.

[Wesman61]

If it has an input level then it should be okay. I think I'll check the manual.

[Rena Rune]

One thing that's kinda important for me - how does the Mono Pitch sound when you play a chord? Does it do the glitchy sound like a Whammy?

[SeeMoore]

Just ordered the G3, confidence is high!

[eriwebnerr]

Bob (or any other owners) - can you tell us about the bypass? The M9 for example has really good bypass. I know this unit isn't true bypass, but I don't want it to mangle my bypassed tone either. Anyone try putting it in a true bypass loop and A/B the difference in bypassed tone?
In considering this as having a potential home on a pedal board, this is an important point to consider.

[uburoibob]

I have not put it in a true bypass situation yet. Somewhere, I have a Boss A/B pedal to try it with. This was my chief complaint with the M9 - that putting it in digital bypass mode drops the volume substantially. I have a move coming up tomorrow, so I hope to dig that pedal out and try it perhaps this weekend. On first listen I don't HEAR that it is decreased but without a real, immediate way of switching, I can't be sure.

Bob

[Milo]

Just got to say that the G3 sounds awesome in headphones aswell. Very,very good.

[fly135]

Just got to say that the G3 sounds awesome in headphones aswell. Very,very good.+1. It's the best piece of gear I've bought in a while.

[Milo]

+1. It's the best piece of gear I've bought in a while.

Yeah,i feel the same 100%. Its so easy to dial in good sound,and the looper with sync drums is great for instant ideas.

[Lution]

the final selling point for me will be how the bypassed tone is. Hopefully some feedback will arrive soon on that. :)

[Milo]

the final selling point for me will be how the bypassed tone is. Hopefully some feedback will arrive soon on that. :)

Bypassed tone is very good. I run my G3 in various set ups: Blackstar HT-1,VHT Special6 Ultra head + 212 V30,s - Yamaha 212 combo.

[SeeMoore]

Bypassed tone is very good. I run my G3 in various set ups: Blackstar HT-1,VHT Special6 Ultra head + 212 V30,s - Yamaha 212 combo.

I use mine with an Ultra 6 combo, into the clean input, and it does sound very good.
Used it at church last sunday, dialed up a Govenor OD, one of the chorus's and the analog delay that looks like an EH unit, and it just sounded so natural, as if the amp was producing the sound instead of it having to "carry" the sounds of the pedal.

I'm looking at this thing as pedals in front of the amp, forget the "amp modeling" stuff, which aint bad at all for someone that wants to record into a computer or something.

And it has possibly solved a little delima we have in the band where the other guitarist didn't want to play the acoustic part on Wanted Dead or Alive and since I play lead I had to come up with a way to do a quick change, enter the G3, I setup a patch with acoustic sim, RAT distortion and the chorus plus delay. I may have to tweak it some at practice but it works here at the house.

I really like the G3, very good sounds and easy to use. Maybe Zoom will expand the unit and give us more effects at once, a readout of the patch name and an expression pedal.

[uburoibob]

In patch mode it DOES give a readout of the patch name - in the right-most display.

And it IS a very cool device!

Bob

[SeeMoore]

In patch mode it DOES give a readout of the patch name - in the right-most display.

And it IS a very cool device!

Bob

Patch mode? Never mind, read the manual :) didn't know it would do that, and the changes are instant!

[theraygun]

Got my replacement unit and this thing is perfect for me. I've hooked up a trap tempo to it and I'm going to put it in a true bypass loop so I can turn off multiple effects at once. If you have some effects you only occasionally use, this is your solution. I love being able to tap the tremolo and delay together.

[HillbillySims]

I just ordered a G3 yesterday... I'm gonna incorporate it into my pedal board within a true-bypass loop. so I can still use all my other pedals & have the ZOOM setup for some more specialized effects for specific songs.

[uburoibob]

Wish they'd release the G3 Edit Software. Their site says July 2011, but nuttin' yet...

Bob

[blynn894]

Got my replacement unit and this thing is perfect for me. I've hooked up a trap tempo to it and I'm going to put it in a true bypass loop so I can turn off multiple effects at once. If you have some effects you only occasionally use, this is your solution. I love being able to tap the tremolo and delay together.

what is a trap tempo exactly??

[uburoibob]

I think he meant "tap tempo"...

Bob

[blynn894]

I think he meant "tap tempo"...

Bob

Just thought it was some new gadget that I must have, haha. Is there a way to hook up an external tap tempo, say a Boss fs-5u??

[uburoibob]

Just thought it was some new gadget that I must have, haha. Is there a way to hook up an external tap tempo, say a Boss fs-5u??


I dunno about the Boss, but there is a control port for a pedal or a switch. I don't think you can do a pedal AND a switch, though...

Bob

[FUSER]

Just to confirm some things.
1) When you bypass all 3 footswitches, it is a full bypass and not like the HD500 where the full bypass volume is reduced?

2) It comes with an adapter?

[uburoibob]

Just to confirm some things.
1) When you bypass all 3 footswitches, it is a full bypass and not like the HD500 where the full bypass volume is reduced?

2) It comes with an adapter?

1) Not sure about the full bypass - haven't had time to play with that.

2) Yes, it comes with an AC Adapter

Bob

[fly135]

Just to confirm some things.
1) When you bypass all 3 footswitches, it is a full bypass and not like the HD500 where the full bypass volume is reduced?

2) It comes with an adapter?The bypass volume is controlled by the global output level control. You can boost or attenuate the level.

[Henky]

Wish they'd release the G3 Edit Software. Their site says July 2011, but nuttin' yet...

Bob
It's out now.
http://www.zoom.co.jp/products/edit_share/software/

[FUSER]

So would it be fair to say that both amp models and effects wise this is better than the Digitech R355. The latter I tried and did not like much at all.

I have an HD500. I love the effects on it and over time I have become used to Line 6 effects. The amps I still havent tried out through a proper monitor, so cannot comment.

Right now I have an issue where I will be traveling for the next 6 months and the HD500 is way to big and heavy to carry, so I am contemplating the G3 if at least the effects are great, i.e. on level with HD and better than RP355.

[uburoibob]

It's out now.
http://www.zoom.co.jp/products/edit_share/software/

THANKS for the heads up!!!

Bob:banana

[Guitar100]

I had a chance to play around with one of these at a guitar store today. Pretty damn impressive, especially for the price (and sitting next to a Line 6 M9, which was twice the price). I own a Zoom G2 so have some history with their stuff. This is very flexible, and has a lot more effects. Was quite impressed with some of the echo and delay options, plus the vibe was very useable. In my short time with it, I was less impressed with the OD/distortion options, but didn't really give them a full workout.

A big change from the G2 is that the different delay options truly are distinct from one another, and do a fine job emulating various types of echo. (To my ears, I had trouble discerning the various delays in the G2 and pretty much all of them were too pristine for my preferences. I like a darker echo...)

Also, it really does have a small footprint, which is great. And seemed to be built pretty solidly. It's a little disappointing that other reviewers here have found that they can easily surpass the capacity when using one of the amp models, but I suspect like others here that if I bought one, it would be pretty much just for the delay, reverb, and modulation effects (and maybe compression). It also seemed to be reasonably rugged in the build quality.

All in all, I'm tempted!

[uburoibob]

I like the G3 much more than the Digitech, but I have the RP-500. Nice all-in-one, but the Zoom sounds better to me.

Bob

[HillbillySims]

Got mine today... 1st observation is.. the compressor.. is the 1st compressor in a processor that I have heard that actually sounds like a good compressor PEDAL (other than the Axe-FX.. it had a good compressor in it)

I can tell a slight difference in the tone when running through it (with no FX on).. compared to plugged straight in the amp.. so it seems to have some kind of buffer in it. Not bad, actually sounds slightly smoother, less biting when plugged into the G3...

I like it

[BigMel]

How do the clean amp simulators sound compared to the HD500?

[FUSER]

Can someone do a proper review of the clean amp sims and basic effects?

[HillbillySims]

PLEASE!! Tell me this is not how they programmed this pedal....

The manual says you have to bend over & turn the 2nd knob on the middle effect to actually change the patch.. is this true??

If so.. this makes it useless for stage use.

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d177/HillbillySims/zoomPatchchange.jpg

[uburoibob]

It's an either or... The knob is for when you are programming or using it on a desk. Since this is also intended for use as a usb interface, they give you two ways to use it. For live use, you use patch mode. If you are in patch mode, just hit the buttons to go up or down in each bank. And hit both left and center or right and center with your foot to change banks. Very easy.

Bob

[HillbillySims]

they dont describe this very clearly in the manual... thanks for the response

[erikm5150]

Yeah I've read the manual twice already and I still missed it.
So how do you put the G3 in "patch mode"?

[uburoibob]

Just hold down footswitch number one until it goes into patch mode. The instructions for that are right on the front of the unit... Hold 1 sec for Patch Mode, or something like that.

Bob

[erikm5150]

Thanks Bob.
I don't own the G3 yet, just evaluating if its features will meet my needs for stage use.
Are you using yours live? how are you amplifying it?
Thanks.

[uburoibob]

My gigs don't start up for another three weeks, so I haven't used it live yet. But I will. We play very quietly...so far I've been playing with the amp emulations into a Fishman Loudbox Mini (nice, clean, neutral amp). Next I need to create some effects-only patches for use with my Super Champ XD. Then I will shake it down with my Mackie Hotwire VT-12.

I've been waiting for the Edit software - now I am waiting for the time to do it!

Bob

[desdinova]

I ordered a G3 a couple days ago, let's wait and see now! On paper, this is the perfect travel, practice, backup and even composition tool at this price.

Please tell me I can administrate every parameter of the patches through the PC editor... I simply HATE having to use cryptic knob/button combinations.

[uburoibob]

I haven't played with the editor yet, but configuring the unit from its interface is actually much easier and intuitive than any other product I have - even the M9. It's on par with a PodXT_Live which was just as easy with a GUI on a computer as it was using the screen on the unit.

I think you'll be happy doing it either way.

Bob

[fly135]

Please tell me I can administrate every parameter of the patches through the PC editor... I simply HATE having to use cryptic knob/button combinations.Nothing really cryptic about configuring the stomps.

[uburoibob]

Well, the editing software leaves a lot to be desired. Essentially, it's a librarian kinda thing with limited control over effect parameters. You have to program the unit and then just use the editor to back up your stuff. Too bad - I'd gotten spoiled by Line 6 GUIs.

Still, a great little box!

Bob

[HillbillySims]

all functionality aside.. all ins/outs asside...the name "Zoom" aside...

The SOUND of this unit is unbelievable for the price. This is from a guy who has had 2 Axe-FX Ultra's..and only use boutique pedals... so I'm picky

This G3 sounds easily good enough for me to use on a gig without feeling like my tone has been cheapened in any way.

Even when you dig in hard, it doesnt seem to get that thin digital sounding crap that tarnishes a lot of processors out there.

[FUSER]

Any effect similar to Line 6 octo verb on the G3?

[desdinova]

all functionality aside.. all ins/outs asside...the name "Zoom" aside...

The SOUND of this unit is unbelievable for the price. This is from a guy who has had 2 Axe-FX Ultra's..and only use boutique pedals... so I'm picky

This G3 sounds easily good enough for me to use on a gig without feeling like my tone has been cheapened in any way.

Even when you dig in hard, it doesnt seem to get that thin digital sounding crap that tarnishes a lot of processors out there.

I'm starting feeling a bit horny after this post. :rockin

I would very much like to be able to take this little gadget to practice also. Review in a few days (hopefully).

One more question: I downloaded the Editor. Am I right to asume that it needs the G3 to work properly?

[SeeMoore]

Has anyone used the XLR out to a mixer or recorder, if so, how did it sound?

I've only used the USB to record a couple tones but that sounds really good.

[Henky]

Well, the editing software leaves a lot to be desired. Essentially, it's a librarian kinda thing with limited control over effect parameters. You have to program the unit and then just use the editor to back up your stuff. Too bad - I'd gotten spoiled by Line 6 GUIs.

Still, a great little box!

BobJust out of curiousity Bob, what is it you can't do in the editing software and needs to be programmed on the unit itself?
As it is I haven't found any parameter, I can't control using the software.

[uburoibob]

Just out of curiousity Bob, what is it you can't do in the editing software and needs to be programmed on the unit itself?
As it is I haven't found any parameter, I can't control using the software.

Maybe I didn't spend enough time with it, but I couldn't seem to replace any of the effects for each of the three slots - for instance, choosing a reverb instead of a delay, etc. And the images are SO tiny it's tough to see what parameter you are messing with. I'll play with it some more this evening and see if I missed something.

Bob

[desdinova]

Maybe I didn't spend enough time with it, but I couldn't seem to replace any of the effects for each of the three slots - for instance, choosing a reverb instead of a delay, etc. And the images are SO tiny it's tough to see what parameter you are messing with. I'll play with it some more this evening and see if I missed something.

Bob

I spend some time with the editor I downloaded yesterday. First of all, it CAN work standalone (without the G3) but, of course, you have to work from scratch to create presets, if you don't have the G3 to import something.

Second, try to float the mouse cursor above each effect. You will notice, at some point, that it changes to a "recycle" type icon. Clicking at this point opens up the "repository" window, so you can select what you want.

Hope this helps.

[radix]

Can someone do a proper review of the clean amp sims and basic effects?

not sure have you seen this (part i and ii) done by me..
http://www.thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?t=934419

[radix]

i found that the editor has some problem with the delays setting of x4, x 8 etc, the mouse up/down seems too coarse too change it bit by bit, u still have to resort to the buttons.
otherwise the editor works pretty fine for me! everything in real time, u move anything on the editor, the unit follows, and vice versa..

[uburoibob]

I worked with the editor tonight and it's fine. Does exactly what it is supposed to do. I noticed the same thing with trying to set tempo but not really a big deal.

Bob

[SeeMoore]

Hold the "shift" key while adjusting, it slows it down for more precision.

[ShredNChunk]

Hey all

I've been reading/watching everything possible about this unit, but i still need to come across some vids/clips/description of how well it does the high gain stuff.

Stuff like Metallica, Pantera, Meshuggah, In Flames etc. Not lead stuff, since i already heard a couple of nice clips, but rhythm chugging.

Is there a nice chunky sound to it, or does it sound flat, flappy, dull, lifeless etc.

[uburoibob]

Hey all

I've been reading/watching everything possible about this unit, but i still need to come across some vids/clips/description of how well it does the high gain stuff.

Stuff like Metallica, Pantera, Meshuggah, In Flames etc. Not lead stuff, since i already heard a couple of nice clips, but rhythm chugging.

Is there a nice chunky sound to it, or does it sound flat, flappy, dull, lifeless etc.

Wish I could help on this, but that sound is foreign to me. I CAN say that the amp sounds for the music I like are pretty dang impressive - MUCH more so than any Line 6 product I've ever owned. Don't know if that helps, but since these are starting to get out to just about every store in the world, I'd say you SHOULD be able to answer the question for yourself before too long!

Bob

[blynn894]

I've been trying to set up a tap tempo for the delay, but it only allows me to set global tempo and does not affect the delay, am I missing something?

[uburoibob]

I've been trying to set up a tap tempo for the delay, but it only allows me to set global tempo and does not affect the delay, am I missing something?

The tempo itself is global - there's only one tap switch. To set the tap tempo for the delay, turn the time knob all the way up and then slowly back it down to get the rhythm you want (indicated by musical notes).

Bob

[fly135]

Has anyone used the XLR out to a mixer or recorder, if so, how did it sound?

I've only used the USB to record a couple tones but that sounds really good.I've recorded using the 1/4" out into a line 6 backtrack. It sounds good to me.

[blynn894]

The tempo itself is global - there's only one tap switch. To set the tap tempo for the delay, turn the time knob all the way up and then slowly back it down to get the rhythm you want (indicated by musical notes).

Bob

Bob,

Sorry, I should have mentioned, I'm trying to use an external tap through the control input, any ideas for setting up delay tap tempo with that?

[uburoibob]

Bob,

Sorry, I should have mentioned, I'm trying to use an external tap through the control input, any ideas for setting up delay tap tempo with that?

I THINK that's just an external version of the same tap switch that's on the face of the unit. Not sure, but that's how I understood it. I am using an expression pedal in that jack - an Ernie Ball 25K Volume pedal. Works perfectly! Do you know if I can Y that jack and use both a switch AND a pedal?

Bob

[6stringgrind]

I hooked up a Yamaha foot pedal last night and it's been whammy madness ever since.

[SeeMoore]

I hooked up a Yamaha foot pedal last night and it's been whammy madness ever since.

What, no wah wankin' ?

[fly135]

The $30 M-Audio EX-P works with the G3.

[6stringgrind]

What, no wah wankin' ?

I'll get to that eventually. haha

[Hoth]

I have had a lot of time to spend with the G3 and I have to say that it is an absolutely great solution for those who need simplicity and mobility. It kills my Pandora and when you have it dialed in produces a really great tone. There are some amps that I feel that it falls down on such as the Orange and Hiwatt, but it's not a bad approximation of those. The affects are actually much better than I imagined. All in all, I am really happy with the UI and form factor and it would be great if the modeling just got one step better. As far as metal and high gain tones though, I think it really does a great job but that's not my bread and butter so I don't want to get people's hopes up too much. It actually does a convincing clean and edge of breakup so all in all thumbs up.

[Bucksears]

I had the M9 and it didn't get along with my dirt pedals in front of it (I'm running everything into the front of a SRRI).
Anybody tried their distortion boxes in front of the G3 yet?

I'm really interested in this box just for delays/modulations/tremolo/tuner (not a distortion modeler kind of guy) as it would cut down on a lot of room on my board. I was dissapointed that this unit doesn't appear to have any sort of 'shimmer' effect (octaverb, etc), but looks to have everything else in spades.

[fly135]

I've used my distortion stomps in front of the G3 and it sounds fine. OTOH I've used my distortion stomps in front of the M5 and it sounded fine.

[desdinova]

I just received my G3 this afternoon and playing it since, with a few breaks here and there of course.

All in all, although I barely scrathed the surface, I must say I'm impressed. There are useable tones virtually out of the box, and I managed to make a few presets easily, that, I dare say, I could even use live through the PA anytime. Touch/volume sensitivity was a revelation for a Zoom box and, to be honest, as good or better than more expensive processors. Since I mainly use up to medium gain tones, and a lot of dynamics, this is important to me.

I even tried the looper a bit, and, although it's easy to use, it's rather basic, but still a good added value. I played mainly through (cheap) headphones, because my studio room is still under construction and I have no access to my console, studio monitors and power amp/cabs yet. I have no doubt it will sound even better through them.

I also couldn't get Ableton Live to recognise the G3 as an audio device. I downloaded the latest ASIO driver and will give it a go asap. I am very intriqued with the possibility of recording useful scratch tracks even on the road, with a laptop and Live or Reaper.

I'm planning on making a few "effects only" presets and using the G3 as my pedalboard for the next band practice. In a nutshell: a great value, and PLEASE, Zoom, build a G9 processor as soon as possible! It will have the potential to scare the bejesus out of everything south of 11R territory!

[rsm]

desdinova, +1 for G9.

I planned to get the G3, but I'm still digging my G2.1Nu so figured I'd wait and see if a new G9 or even a G7 would be released - based on similar models and processor as the G3. Get rid of the tube(s), put both pedals on the same side, make it easy to use as a floorboard: tweak individual effects, turn effects on/off in a preset, navigate banks and presets - if it could navigate patches like a MIDIMouse I'd be happy.

Maybe a G5 - like the G3 with two more effects in the chain...that would allow me to have two pre, amp model, two post or similar variations...that would be all I need...until a new G9 or G7 was released.

Great to hear all the good feedback on the G3, I may get one if this positive vibe keeps up...I'll probably get it the day before Zoom announces a new G9 or G7!

Hey Zoom! New G9 please!

[desdinova]

At first, I wanted to buy the G3 as a replacement for my G1Next, which is a nice little gadget, but not what you'd call "great sounding" or especially easy to program. Then, I read all the reports and realized that the G3 could cover a lot more bases; including keeping me happy until my Axe-II arrives!

Yes, I'd like to see a bigger Zoom machine, my only concern is with the DSP. The G3 features the ZFX-IV, which is already a better processor than the ZFX-3 on the (current) G9. And still it has some troubles with the new, more detailed sims in the firmware (e.g. HD Reverb togerher with amps). They might have to come up with something stronger, processor wise, or use 2 or more of them, for a more high end machine.

[randombastage]

Just got one yesterday. Nice unit, lots of good features and some fun effects. The amp models are touchy to find a sweet spot where it sounds passable but they can be found and then it's off to guitarland with a smile on my face.

I'll be keeping this as my portable practice/jam tool for sure and for it's day job it will be incorporated it as a stompbox for one of my real amp rigs.

Has anyone been able to use the online feature of the Edit &Share software? Mine just says 'unable to connect' or something like that.

[Gibson²]

I must say that I'm really close to ordering one but the demos I've watched on youtube scream to me "don't buy this thing!", anyone got a decent sample of the amp models? I'm looking for something that will sound better than an old XT from line6 for ex (through headphones and a real amp).
And for your information I recently sold my gsp1101. I just want to enjoy playing again and stop tweaking and tweaking and tweaking for hours.

Thanks.

[desdinova]

I must say that I'm really close to ordering one but the demos I've watched on youtube scream to me "don't buy this thing!", anyone got a decent sample of the amp models? I'm looking for something that will sound better than an old XT from line6 for ex (through headphones and a real amp).
And for your information I recently sold my gsp1101. I just want to enjoy playing again and stop tweaking and tweaking and tweaking for hours.

Thanks.

FWIW, I "replaced" my GSP with the G3.

Well, I exagerate... The GSP will be replaced with an Axe-II (hopefully in less than a month). But I too wanted a simple and effective, small format processor, for a variety of uses, including as an economical backup for my "big" rig.

What I got is sounding great through headphones and exceeded my expectations through the fx return of a small amp. Haven't used it through my console/studio monitors yet, but I'm sure it will sound great there too.

It's very simple to setup and use, and I found that the limitation of just three effect/amp slots works as an advantage when you just want "to enjoy playing". As a bonus, if you plan on using the looper/drum machine also, for practicing and composing, and/or use it as a small multieffect on your pedalboard, don't hesitate a minute. All IMHO, of course, YMMV and all that, but at least give it a shot.

[HillbillySims]

Personally, Im not real real crazy about the amp models (but I wasnt real crazy about amp models in the AXE-FX either)... BUT! as an FX pedal / processor, its great.

It sounds about as good as my boutique pedals in front of my tube amp... 1st cheaper digital processor I have tried with fairly analog sound. (The compressors are GREAT too...which is usually a real low point on a digital processor)

I must say that I'm really close to ordering one but the demos I've watched on youtube scream to me "don't buy this thing!", anyone got a decent sample of the amp models? I'm looking for something that will sound better than an old XT from line6 for ex (through headphones and a real amp).
And for your information I recently sold my gsp1101. I just want to enjoy playing again and stop tweaking and tweaking and tweaking for hours.

Thanks.

[bluesdoc]

Got mine yesterday. The first go round with it left me kind of meh.... then I dug deeper, learned the interface better, and bam, the thing really opened up. I got a great clean fender and then lead tones with the Orange and Two Rock models. The eff are great, but I quickly ran right into that wall of the 3 block limit. I did some A/Bing with the GT10 I'd been using for quite a while and was quite taken with how much better the amp modeling sounded (into my fbt powered mon). I'm already foaming at the mouth for a G9 or something that's fully featured. It must be on the way. It just must be.... :huh ;)

jon

[reverend5]

Yeah it's quite a little box, not the be all end all, I also think the amp models are good to very good but the effects are stunning , like someone else mentioned the compressor's for instance are as good as any dedicated pedal Iv'e heard that would cost as much as this whole thing. The only thing missing for me is a rotary
effect. With just a little time you can get completely usable professional tones from this thing. definitely moving in the right direction with this.

[desdinova]

...was quite taken with how much better the amp modeling sounded (into my fbt powered mon). I'm already foaming at the mouth for a G9 or something that's fully featured. It must be on the way. It just must be.... :huh ;)


My sentiments exactly Jon. I played for close to 2 hours yesterday, using the Two Rock (for a "Fordish" kinda tone) and the DC30 clean... they are both lovely. And tweaking to get a great tone is a breeze.

Bring on the G9 I say!

[bluesdoc]

Okayso.... I put together the best of both worlds. GT10 for eff only, with the Zoom G3 in the loop for amp models, after OD, wah, comp, etc. Lots of great eff on the GT10 and a user friendly looper, but the Zoom amp models are just better. Again, the TRock and Orange lead tones are great, retiring my other stomp lead pedals for the time being. There's a bit of a tap dance for live use, but very doable. I'm having a great time with this :) Onward-->>

jon

[Milo]

The G3 is my best buy this year,and i buy shit all the time.

[rsm]

Still hoping for the new G9; my new G3 should be here next week. Though I dig my G2.1Nu it may be up for sale soon.

Great to see Zoom getting props here; as I posted in my OP, been digging Zoom since I got my new 9002 back in the day.

[Black Squirrel]

Okayso.... I put together the best of both worlds. GT10 for eff only, with the Zoom G3 in the loop for amp models, after OD, wah, comp, etc. Lots of great eff on the GT10 and a user friendly looper, but the Zoom amp models are just better. Again, the TRock and Orange lead tones are great, retiring my other stomp lead pedals for the time being. There's a bit of a tap dance for live use, but very doable. I'm having a great time with this :) Onward-->>

jon


Wouldn't be easier to just run 2 G3's one fo amp and reverb and one for effects?:hide

[bluesdoc]

No ^. The controllability of the GT10 is what I want and need. It's set up so that with a small dance, I can kick in an OD, chorus, autowah, trem, delay, comp, eq, volume, tuner - it's all immediately accessible. On one patch! And I do use all that stuff. And a looper too with which I don't have to leave most of my effect controls. When Zoom comes out with all that at once, I'll be there, unless someone else scoops that quality at a competitive price. I could be happy for a long time with today's rig (and I've had it them all, except for the 11R).

jon

[Black Squirrel]

No ^. The controllability of the GT10 is what I want and need. It's set up so that with a small dance, I can kick in an OD, chorus, autowah, trem, delay, comp, eq, volume, tuner - it's all immediately accessible. On one patch! And I do use all that stuff. And a looper too with which I don't have to leave most of my effect controls. When Zoom comes out with all that at once, I'll be there, unless someone else scoops that quality at a competitive price. I could be happy for a long time with today's rig (and I've had it them all, except for the 11R).

jon

I hear you I am looking to do the same with a G3 and and HD500.

[desdinova]

May I ask one question, because I don't have means to try it right now and the manual is vague on this:

Can the XLR out be used simultaneously with the 1/4" outs? It would be great if this was the case.

[bluesdoc]

I'll try it out in a bit and report back.

jon

[fly135]

May I ask one question, because I don't have means to try it right now and the manual is vague on this:

Can the XLR out be used simultaneously with the 1/4" outs? It would be great if this was the case.Yes. The XLR is programmable for processed or unprocessed guitar.

[bluesdoc]

yup

[desdinova]

Thanks guys!

Now, this gives new capabilities, since it's possible to also use the XLR as a DI (dry) channel (in addition to the stereo 1/4" pair). Mainly for reamping.

[thirsty one]

Any one ever place a base through one of these units? I used to run my bass through a m13 for a little compression/chorus/reberb direct to the board and it worked great. I see that there is no bass amp modeled. Well a Fender bassman, but does anyone really use that amp for bass?

Also, how is the tuner, or does it even have one. I could possibly live with this while I'm waiting for my name to come up on the list for the AxeII.

I thought the tones in this video were pretty good.

G9onk4UsnZY&feature=player_embedded

[desdinova]

Any one ever place a base through one of these units? I used to run my bass through a m13 for a little compression/chorus/reberb direct to the board and it worked great. I see that there is no bass amp modeled. Well a Fender bassman, but does anyone really use that amp for bass?

Also, how is the tuner, or does it even have one. I could possibly live with this while I'm waiting for my name to come up on the list for the AxeII.

I guess you can use the G3 as a "bass DI with effects" just like you did with the M13. Lack of an amp sim in the signal chain is not so crucial for bass, IMO. Although you can still insert an amp instance, and use low gain, etc, just for a particular "flavor".

The tuner is quite accurate as far as I can tell. I didn't A/B it with my Peterson (might do that, since you gave me the idea!), but it seems as accurate as an ordinary tuner pedal.

[thirsty one]

I guess you can use the G3 as a "bass DI with effects" just like you did with the M13. Lack of an amp sim in the signal chain is not so crucial for bass, IMO. Although you can still insert an amp instance, and use low gain, etc, just for a particular "flavor".

The tuner is quite accurate as far as I can tell. I didn't A/B it with my Peterson (might do that, since you gave me the idea!), but it seems as accurate as an ordinary tuner pedal.

Thanks desdinova, because I am carrying my AxeFx to church for bass, because I need the tuner. I run it through a sim, but as you stated a sim isn't critical for bass. Maybe the Fender Bassman can be dialed for bass quite effectively. I mean it should be.

It looks like the G3 may be an inexpensive solution to not having modeler if I go on and sell the Axe. If you do a/b the G3 with the Peterson, let us know your results. Just knowing it works for you is a real confidence builder. For a little more than decent tuner the G3 would be a great bargain.

[sahhas]

where are people buying their zoom g3? i got my MF catalog yesterday and found it odd that it's not in there....i haven't check the website yet though....just curious.....

[Black Squirrel]

I dont think any "Guitar Center" companies carry Zoom.

I got mine from sweetwater


where are people buying their zoom g3? i got my MF catalog yesterday and found it odd that it's not in there....i haven't check the website yet though....just curious.....

[fly135]

where are people buying their zoom g3? i got my MF catalog yesterday and found it odd that it's not in there....i haven't check the website yet though....just curious.....Expected to ship 9/11

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/guitars/zoom-g3-guitar-multi-effects-pedal-and-looper/h75460000000000

I got my from the local Sam Ash. They only had one and it was the display. Early adopter here. I knew I had to have it when I saw the 40 sec looper w/ drum machine. I wasn't the least bit concerned with the quality of modeling. But it turned out to be great.

[bluesdoc]

Sweetwater here also.

jon

[SeeMoore]

where are people buying their zoom g3? i got my MF catalog yesterday and found it odd that it's not in there....i haven't check the website yet though....just curious.....

One of the local shops here have one in stock,

Riverland Music
440 Main Street
Danville, VA 24541-1110
(434) 791-3121

[Shane Sanders]

This is one of those little purchases that just made me smile. Had the whole thing figured out in about an hour without cracking a manual, and was very happy with what I was able to dial in. Fun was had.

Some tips if anyone is on the fence about keeping it after buying: dial back the presence or turn off the presence knob and dial back more treble than your eye is telling you on the amp sims. This made a world of difference for me.

Also, there is a killer clean "pedal platform" lurking in the US Blues amp sim. I can post the settings if anyone wants it, but essentially just set a very low (20-ish) gain on it and be very conservative with Presence and Treble. Even drives from an M9 started sounding pretty good in front of it (I was able to find something special using the Line 6 Drive, myself). I chose to use a Comp/EQ/Amp Sim on the G3 and put the M9 in front of that with Drive/Modulation/Delay on the M9. For reverb, I was using a Spring Chicken last in the chain. I think even picky people might be able to find some magic combinations with gear you already have plus the G3.

One last thing: If you have a Fender Mustang amp, use the Line In on it and you have an instant powered speaker happening to monitor with. It worked really well for me in a living room situation. I'm gonna try blending the Mustang with the G3 next and hear what happens. :-)

[desdinova]

Hey, I just noticed that there is a "cab off" option on amp sims! I know, RTFM...

Yeah baby! Hours and hours of fun! :beer

[Jim Soloway]

yup

Jon, have you compared the Blackface clean tones to the Line 6 HD Pods? If so, how do they compare? You know what I'm looking for. Am I likely to fine it in the Zoom?

[bluesdoc]

Well Jim, I spent time with both the 500 and 300 and despite everyone else's ravings, there was a 'processed' aspect to the tone that I couldn't get away from. Yes, it mostly sounded very good, but there was just something about it I could not dial out and left me wanting. Not so with the G3. Easy to get an 'amp in the room' feel to it and the Fender (Twin) model just makes me smile. It has that delightful high end that has no harshness to it and has a presence that works for me. I think it can be a very fine line for players and imho, one guy's recommendations, or even a pages of raving is no substitute for just trying it (any piece of gear) out. So for you, Jim, yeah, it's close enough for me to recommend it to/for you TO TRY, bearing in mind that it still might not be just right for you. Also bear in mind that other than adding a bit of effects, it's much more limited than the PODs, control wise. That said, I know your layout is simple, so it might be fine for you.

jon

[blynn894]

Anybody have a recommendation on setting levels? There is the global setting which goes to 120?? Then there is preset level, amp level and effects level. Should I set global at 120 at back everything else down from there, am I going to get a better signal? Or set that at a minimum and raise everything? I find it confusing.

Any help is appreciated.

[desdinova]

Another question from the annoying (and excited) new user: do you think the "tube" control in amps, works much like "sag"?

In many instances, it seems to really make things come alive.

[desdinova]

All right.

Last Wednesday I used the G3 for rehearsal. This is a blues/rock quartet and I played through an old Musicman amp (can't remember the model but it was a 1X12 combo with the monster EV speaker). The amp was setup totally clean and EQ neutral.

I ended up using a preset with TW Rock and Analog Delay for most of the rehearsal. I found out that using the volume and pickup selections of my guitar (EBMM 25th anniversary), plus pick dynamics, I was able to always have a useful tone everytime. This was commented upon by the other bandmembers also.

So that does it: the G3 is officially my backup rig for everything. And when my Ethos gets here, I will setup a small pedalboard (Ethos+G3+Budda wah) for grab and go gigs and jams.

[Henky]

All right.

Last Wednesday I used the G3 for rehearsal. This is a blues/rock quartet and I played through an old Musicman amp (can't remember the model but it was a 1X12 combo with the monster EV speaker). The amp was setup totally clean and EQ neutral.

I ended up using a preset with TW Rock and Analog Delay for most of the rehearsal. I found out that using the volume and pickup selections of my guitar (EBMM 25th anniversary), plus pick dynamics, I was able to always have a useful tone everytime. This was commented upon by the other bandmembers also.

So that does it: the G3 is officially my backup rig for everything. And when my Ethos gets here, I will setup a small pedalboard (Ethos+G3+Budda wah) for grab and go gigs and jams.
Yes, that struck me the most: the dynamic the amp models have.
I can easily turn down the volume on my guitar and sound very clean and when i turn up the volume, have a nice distorted sound without even touching the pedal.
The way the G3 responds to dynamic picking is just incredible.
Here's a little blues sample I've done with the G3 to demonstrate this:
http://soundcloud.com/henkyb/goosebump-blues

[uburoibob]

Anybody have a recommendation on setting levels? There is the global setting which goes to 120?? Then there is preset level, amp level and effects level. Should I set global at 120 at back everything else down from there, am I going to get a better signal? Or set that at a minimum and raise everything? I find it confusing.

Any help is appreciated.

This really depends on the sensitivity/impedance of the input of the amp. In one amp, I have found that 100 seems neutral - meaning it sounds as if the unit is being completely bypassed when you have none of the three channels activated. In another amp, I have to turn it up to 102 to get the signal to be at the same volume as a complete bypass.

When I have guitars with much greater or lesser output, if I don't want the signal to be overloaded at the input, ie: for cleaner headroom, then I will dial down the Global volume almost 20 points to have the same level of cleanness between, say my Tele and my Les Paul. So, I start with the lower volume guitar and make that the one that works at 100 and then dial it down for my louder guitars. How much is really a subjective preference - just use your ears. I like to play with a clean tone and just a little bit of edge to it.

So, bottom line, 100 should be close to neutral - no gain, no cut for the bypassed sound.

If you have an effect chain that gives you greater or lesser volume than you'd like, use the TOTAL button to lower or raise the volume for just that effect chain.

Bob

[lspaulsp]

All right.

Last Wednesday I used the G3 for rehearsal. This is a blues/rock quartet and I played through an old Musicman amp (can't remember the model but it was a 1X12 combo with the monster EV speaker). The amp was setup totally clean and EQ neutral.

I ended up using a preset with TW Rock and Analog Delay for most of the rehearsal. I found out that using the volume and pickup selections of my guitar (EBMM 25th anniversary), plus pick dynamics, I was able to always have a useful tone everytime. This was commented upon by the other bandmembers also.

So that does it: the G3 is officially my backup rig for everything. And when my Ethos gets here, I will setup a small pedalboard (Ethos+G3+Budda wah) for grab and go gigs and jams.

Musicman RD-112 Wow, what an amp!

[Black Squirrel]

Got mine yesterday. Its a cool little pedal.

[BuleriaChk]

I've been ringing out my G3 (from MF) for a week or so, and have to say that I am very, very impressed. The effects are among the best I've ever played (I have a GT-10 and a PodX3), and maybe even better, and the amp models are surprisingly good (to me).

Until the G3, I had always been underwhelmed by Zoom amp and effect modeling (I had a G7, and still have my old G2), but the G3 is at least as good as anything I have (including Amplitube 3 and Guitar Rig 4).

My only caveats are the knobs seem a bit fiddly, and there is no aux in (which would make it perfect for desktop and live performance. Luckily, my amps have aux ins, but not having to run an extra cable would have been nice).

But, again, in my experience the sims and effects are quite extraordinary (I haven't ever tried an Axe-Fx, though)

The G3 is certainly a contender at the highest level, and especially at its price point, IMO ....

[guitarnet70]

I will setup a small pedalboard (Ethos+G3+Budda wah)

Not that small....If I could put my finger on an Ethos I would do it as well (with an M9, probably...or an H20)

[rsm]

Got my G3 last week, finally had time last night to give it a go - headphones only unfortunately!

Some of the factory presets sound great as is, and I can get a great deal of feel and control using my guitar volume/tone knobs. Sounds great, and has great potential once I start dialing in my own presets, however...

Many of the factory presets (high gain or many effects) have a loud hum and good deal of noise...anyone else having this too?

No room to add the noise gate, would be good if it was global. My old G2, and my G2.1Nu have some noise on high gain patches but nothing like the noise and hum in the G3.

I'm going to try another guitar and electrical outlet...

[lspaulsp]

God I thought my GAS was gone!

[killerburst]

Picked mine up a couple days ago. First into headphones. Very good. Loved using the drum machine and looper. Everything is in time and quantized to match up with the global tempo. Had a very cool 8 bar loop with 4 or 5 overdubs going within the first 15 minutes of turning it on. Very user friendly to get around. This is the sweet spot for power/features vs. ease of use, IMHO. Tonight I played it into the front of my Allen Accomplice. OUTFRIGGINSTANDING as a 3-slot pedalboard! Can't say enough. Best use of my gear dollars in a long time.

[huutevar]

I just got mine yesterday and I like it. I'm using it in front of an amp and through headphones. It's extremely versitile and nothing on it sounds bad to me aside from the Z-Organ, but I'm not a fan of the sound of the POD, either. So far I've been having fun with the Rack Comp, VX Combo, Tremolo, The Vibe and Pedal Cry. My one future firmware request would be to be able to scroll through the models faster.

[tiktokman]

Has anyone run the G3 into an EH 44 Magnum? Really going for a minimalist set up and I was eyeing the HD 500 but if I can get good sounds for $300 less I'm game. I really don't see myself touching a 1/10th of what the HD 500 can do so the G3 might be just the thing.

[fly135]

It's extremely versitile and nothing on it sounds bad to me aside from the Z-Organ.What's wrong with the Z-Organ...

http://soundcloud.com/fly135/g3organ

[rsm]

soooooo....no one else is having buzz, hum and noise issues on high-gain factory presets?

:wave

[huutevar]

What's wrong with the Z-Organ...

http://soundcloud.com/fly135/g3organ

To me, the top octave sounds like the pitch shifter has some detuning on it that I don't care for, but that is also how I think the POD sounds, so I don't count it as a defect of the modeling.

[desdinova]

soooooo....no one else is having buzz, hum and noise issues on high-gain factory presets?

:wave

I don't personally use high gain sounds that often (for me they are more like "special effect" sounds), and I use factory presets even less. So I haven't noticed something.

Is the noise source the amp, some pedal, settings, what?

[Theriak]

Hello guys, I'm considering the Zoom G3 as effects unit for my live setup, but there are some things I would like to know, so I am asking for help.

1) I would like to use the G3 unit in serial effects loop of my amplifier (Valve amp) only for delays, reverbs, modulations and so on, all in pedalboard mode. I would like to have delay in one slot of G3 for solos a what I need to know is if it's possible to set level of delay in order to increase overall volume of guitar sound. By other words, I want to step on button on G3, delay turns on and volume goes up too, so I will be louder than when playing rhythm guitar and my solo can be heard. After solo, I step on button again,the delay turns off and thus volume drops to original level. Something like a boost and delay in one step. Is it possible?

2) Does g3 suck tone (in effects loop, serial)) when engaged and turned off? And if it does, how much is it noticable? I don't want to ruin my tone with something purposeless.

Sorry for my english and thanks for your help!

[Matlock]

Can the G3 get a good univibe sound?

[uburoibob]

soooooo....no one else is having buzz, hum and noise issues on high-gain factory presets?

:wave

Same with me. I don't use the presets and I don't use high gain settings. But when I play with ANY high gain settings, on ANY pedal, they ALL have all kinds of noise. I guess that's why you have to play so many notes so fast when you use that kind of sound.

Bob

[rsm]

Same with me. I don't use the presets and I don't use high gain settings. But when I play with ANY high gain settings, on ANY pedal, they ALL have all kinds of noise. I guess that's why you have to play so many notes so fast when you use that kind of sound.

Bob

I don't personally use high gain sounds that often (for me they are more like "special effect" sounds), and I use factory presets even less. So I haven't noticed something.

Is the noise source the amp, some pedal, settings, what?





I don't use high gain much, or factory presets; however, I was going through the factory presets just to try them out / to hear what the unit can do, and noticed the buzz and high level of noise on the high gain presets. Much more excessive than my G2 and G2.1Nu in comparison which is why I'm asking...the clean, od and crunch presets don't have the hum, buzz or noise issues. I've had other high gain gear in the past and expect some noise, but this just seems over the top IMO. Maybe I'm not up on the new high gain noise levels.

I only used my guitar (never had noise or ground issues with it) the G3 and headphones (never had noise issues with them).

[desdinova]

So, perhaps we should suggest a global noise gate for a future firmware update?

And, while we are at it, why not a global EQ module also?

Do you think the DSP and memory leave some provision for those?

More important: does Zoom has a plan for future updates? I don't know what's their record on this area.

[rsm]

So, perhaps we should suggest a global noise gate for a future firmware update?

And, while we are at it, why not a global EQ module also?

Do you think the DSP and memory leave some provision for those?

More important: does Zoom has a plan for future updates? I don't know what's their record on this area.


Yes and Yes. Zoom doesn't publish specs/info on their processor designs, nor does the G3 display processor/memory utilization. with the G2Nu and now moreso with the G3 design they should be able to provide firmware updates to add or update features like new or improved amp models and effects...I suppose a global noise gate setting could be possible but that depends on how flexible the software is to add global parameters, and the processing power as you stated.

Zoom doesn't say much, software updates may be more frequent (I hope) for the G3 and newer kit due to the design...

[huutevar]

Hello guys, I'm considering the Zoom G3 as effects unit for my live setup, but there are some things I would like to know, so I am asking for help.

1) I would like to use the G3 unit in serial effects loop of my amplifier (Valve amp) only for delays, reverbs, modulations and so on, all in pedalboard mode. I would like to have delay in one slot of G3 for solos a what I need to know is if it's possible to set level of delay in order to increase overall volume of guitar sound. By other words, I want to step on button on G3, delay turns on and volume goes up too, so I will be louder than when playing rhythm guitar and my solo can be heard. After solo, I step on button again,the delay turns off and thus volume drops to original level. Something like a boost and delay in one step. Is it possible?

2) Does g3 suck tone (in effects loop, serial)) when engaged and turned off? And if it does, how much is it noticable? I don't want to ruin my tone with something purposeless.

Sorry for my english and thanks for your help!


1) Yes, I think all the effects have their own level setting, so it would be possible to increase the volume with the delay.

2) I haven't noticed any tone suck going into the front of my amp, so I don't think there would be any in the effects loop unless the effects loop itself was the cause.


Can the G3 get a good univibe sound?

Yes, the univibe is quite good and gives several interesting ways to tweak the sound besides just rate and depth.

[Matlock]

1) Yes, I think all the effects have their own level setting, so it would be possible to increase the volume with the delay.

2) I haven't noticed any tone suck going into the front of my amp, so I don't think there would be any in the effects loop unless the effects loop itself was the cause.




Yes, the univibe is quite good and gives several interesting ways to tweak the sound besides just rate and depth.

Very cool, thank you.

[huutevar]

I found a trick for making an overdrive with sag, similar to how I think a tweed deluxe sounds. Set the HotBox with the gain at about 9 o'clock and high volume, then put the parametric eq (it could be any transparent effect) before the HotBox and set the volume very low (I have mine at 24, I think) to "starve" the input of the HotBox. It results in a saggy or flabby kind of overdrive that is good for an old blues sound.

[vmann]

Apologize if this has been mentioned but how is the looper function on this thing. Looking to get a looper for the first time. Is it just a basic looper with minimal features? Thanks

Jim

[Bucksears]

Just got mine today. I was a bit skeptical due to the similarity of the M9, but it MIGHT be a keeper.
Two deal-breakers (for me) on the M9 have already passed somewhat successfully on the G3: able to take my dirt pedals well (including reacting well to chorus), and the decay volumes on the delays were on par with my (benchmark) Boss DD-20.

The idea was that this one box would knock off my Boss DD-20, Boss CE-20 and tuner off my board and fill the need for tremolo if/when I move to a different amp. So far, that looks like a success.
Only disappointment really was the flanger and the variety of delays; the (three) flangers are too metallic/digital sounding - I'm having a hard time dialing it in to a sweet sound. Choruses sound really good (not terribly different from one another) but I'm definitely sticking with an analog flanger. Phasers are ok (much better on the M9), but I'll listen to them a bit more. The Univibe model is VERY good on G3, can be dialed in very closely to my DIY Hollis Easyvibe (photocell).

Overall the M9 seems like it has a larger variety of sounds, but the G3 does what I need it to so far.

[Milo]

I have had my G3 for a couple of weeks now and the thing is still in daliy use. Only the TS and noisegates are worh the small cost. But one gets somuch more. I mostly use it infront of either Blackstar HT-1 or VHT S6 Ultra.Better still,both at the same time. Best buy this year.

The looper and drums are awesome for jamming or songwriting. One big plus also is the sound trough headphones: very good. I often use it when my girl looks at silly tv-programs. What a bless.

[thirsty one]

I have had my G3 for a couple of weeks now and the thing is still in daliy use. Only the TS and noisegates are worh the small cost. But one gets somuch more. I mostly use it infront of either Blackstar HT-1 or VHT S6 Ultra.Better still,both at the same time. Best buy this year.

The looper and drums are awesome for jamming or songwriting. One big plus also is the sound trough headphones: very good. I often use it when my girl looks at silly tv-programs. What a bless.


Almost every post about this unit, makes me want one. For the life of me I just can't pull the trigger yet. There was one in the emporium for a great price.

[desdinova]

Apologize if this has been mentioned but how is the looper function on this thing. Looking to get a looper for the first time. Is it just a basic looper with minimal features? Thanks

Jim

Jim, the looper in the G3 is basic. It's not that it would replace a Boss, Digitech, EHX or Boomerang for live performance any time soon.

OTOH, this is true for ANY looper function included with general purpose modelers. It can sync to drum beats, and also effects tap tempo, which is great. You can clear the last phrase, but cannot clear consecutively or replace, etc. It sounds pretty good (i.e. doesn't add artifacts of any kind, that I was aware of, after additional phrases).

All said and done, it's a nice to have feature for practicing and songwriting, but should you need a full featured looper, you have to look elsewhere.

[desdinova]

Almost every post about this unit, makes me want one. For the life of me I just can't pull the trigger yet. There was one in the emporium for a great price.

The G3 costs as much as one semi-expensive "boutique" pedal.

If you hear its TS or the OD-1 emulation in front of a tube amp, you would be hard pressed to tell the difference.

I think the G3 will prove so succesful because it just covers so many bases with flair:

1) Do you happen to use a few pedals sounds very sparingly? For example, I'd use Tremolo, Vibe, Fuzz, Chorus and other effect sounds, for about 10% of total playing time in a gig. You are covered: put it on your pedalboard and have a blast. At very good effects quality, at least as good as a $80 for each comparable pedal. And you get all the rest for free.

2) You want a portable mini-rig for songwriting and practicing? You are covered: you can even operate it on batteries with provision for "green" operating mode. So you feel good for yourself and the environment and you get all the rest for free.

3) You need a backup for your main rig, or something for the occasional jam and/or rehearshal? Throw it in your guitar's case or bag and you can even send the output to PA via XLR. All the rest, you guessed it, for free.

All in all, I love the damn thing. This is what Line6 would make the POD to be in the first place, concentrating on quality and features over quantity and marketing gimmicks.

[fly135]

Apologize if this has been mentioned but how is the looper function on this thing. Looking to get a looper for the first time. Is it just a basic looper with minimal features? Thanks

JimJim, the looper is great! Several of the songs in my sig where done with the G3 looper. It has 40 secs and a visual progress bar. The visual aid is good for knowing if you are about to run out of time, and on overdubs where you are in the loop. AFAIK, no other looper has that. The drum machine synced to the looper isn't available on any other looper equiped multifx in current production.

[vmann]

Jim, the looper in the G3 is basic. It's not that it would replace a Boss, Digitech, EHX or Boomerang for live performance any time soon.

OTOH, this is true for ANY looper function included with general purpose modelers. It can sync to drum beats, and also effects tap tempo, which is great. You can clear the last phrase, but cannot clear consecutively or replace, etc. It sounds pretty good (i.e. doesn't add artifacts of any kind, that I was aware of, after additional phrases).

All said and done, it's a nice to have feature for practicing and songwriting, but should you need a full featured looper, you have to look elsewhere.

Thanks for the info.

Won't be using it live. I need something to practice with but mainly for songwriting when I'm on the road working. The ability to create backing band is key. How are the drum sounds and can you transfer the loop to a DAW? Thx

[desdinova]

Won't be using it live. I need something to practice with but mainly for songwriting when I'm on the road working. The ability to create backing band is key. How are the drum sounds and can you transfer the loop to a DAW? Thx

As I said, it's great for practicing/songwriting. The drum beats are good in quality, although, because they are so varied, there are not many options for each genre.

You can record whatever the G3 outputs to your DAW, but keep in mind that the looped performances are NOT saved when you turn the power off!

[vmann]

Jim, the looper is great! Several of the songs in my sig where done with the G3 looper. It has 40 secs and a visual progress bar. The visual aid is good for knowing if you are about to run out of time, and on overdubs where you are in the loop. AFAIK, no other looper has that. The drum machine synced to the looper isn't available on any other looper equiped multifx in current production.

Hey, thanks, when I get some time I'll take a listen.

I take it you can transfer the loops to a DAW via USB? Does it have a bass sim?

This unit looks like it might be contender for my on the road songwriting needs. Thx

[vmann]

As I said, it's great for practicing/songwriting. The drum beats are good in quality, although, because they are so varied, there are not many options for each genre.

You can record whatever the G3 outputs to your DAW, but keep in mind that the looped performances are NOT saved when you turn the power off!

Yikes, that might be a deal breaker!

[desdinova]

Yikes, that might be a deal breaker!

Why? I can't recall any multi-fx unit with a looper that this actually happens!

Only dedicated looper devices with internal re-writable EPROMMs can do that. I may be wrong of course...

[fly135]

Yikes, that might be a deal breaker!Then you need a dedicated looper. The only multifx that I know of with storage is the GNX4. Very powerful multitrack recorder/looper with synced midi drum machine and up to 2 gigi of storage. Realtime USB audio path or xfer saved files over USB.

[vmann]

Why? I can't recall any multi-fx unit with a looper that this actually happens!

Only dedicated looper devices with internal re-writable EPROMMs can do that. I may be wrong of course...

I have no experience with loopers but I do know I am forgetful (age thing);) I can see my self laying down an awesome groove and in my rush back home (4 hr drive) to put it on my DAW, I power it off.

Reconsidering this scenario, I imagine I can keep it powered up at all times with batteries till I get home. If thats the case then I might be able to live with the looper in the G3 to go along with it's main features and purpose.

[vmann]

Then you need a dedicated looper. The only multifx that I know of with storage is the GNX4. Very powerful multitrack recorder/looper with synced midi drum machine and up to 2 gigi of storage. Realtime USB audio path or xfer saved files over USB.

Yeah, but man, from what I've read so far, aside from the looper, the early reviews on the G3 are largely glowing. As for dedicated loopers I have been looking at the Line6 JM4 and the Boss br-80 with built in eband. Of course they are pricier. Thx

[Henky]

Thanks for the info.

Won't be using it live. I need something to practice with but mainly for songwriting when I'm on the road working. The ability to create backing band is key. How are the drum sounds and can you transfer the loop to a DAW? Thx
What you need is a small multitracker like the Boss BR-80

[Milo]

Almost every post about this unit, makes me want one. For the life of me I just can't pull the trigger yet. There was one in the emporium for a great price.

Well,its a no brainer if you ask me.

[Milo]

The G3 costs as much as one semi-expensive "boutique" pedal.

If you hear its TS or the OD-1 emulation in front of a tube amp, you would be hard pressed to tell the difference.

I think the G3 will prove so succesful because it just covers so many bases with flair:

1) Do you happen to use a few pedals sounds very sparingly? For example, I'd use Tremolo, Vibe, Fuzz, Chorus and other effect sounds, for about 10% of total playing time in a gig. You are covered: put it on your pedalboard and have a blast. At very good effects quality, at least as good as a $80 for each comparable pedal. And you get all the rest for free.

2) You want a portable mini-rig for songwriting and practicing? You are covered: you can even operate it on batteries with provision for "green" operating mode. So you feel good for yourself and the environment and you get all the rest for free.

3) You need a backup for your main rig, or something for the occasional jam and/or rehearshal? Throw it in your guitar's case or bag and you can even send the output to PA via XLR. All the rest, you guessed it, for free.

All in all, I love the damn thing. This is what Line6 would make the POD to be in the first place, concentrating on quality and features over quantity and marketing gimmicks.

Good post.

[huutevar]

The G3 costs as much as one semi-expensive "boutique" pedal.

If you hear its TS or the OD-1 emulation in front of a tube amp, you would be hard pressed to tell the difference.

I think the G3 will prove so succesful because it just covers so many bases with flair:

1) Do you happen to use a few pedals sounds very sparingly? For example, I'd use Tremolo, Vibe, Fuzz, Chorus and other effect sounds, for about 10% of total playing time in a gig. You are covered: put it on your pedalboard and have a blast. At very good effects quality, at least as good as a $80 for each comparable pedal. And you get all the rest for free.

2) You want a portable mini-rig for songwriting and practicing? You are covered: you can even operate it on batteries with provision for "green" operating mode. So you feel good for yourself and the environment and you get all the rest for free.

3) You need a backup for your main rig, or something for the occasional jam and/or rehearshal? Throw it in your guitar's case or bag and you can even send the output to PA via XLR. All the rest, you guessed it, for free.

All in all, I love the damn thing. This is what Line6 would make the POD to be in the first place, concentrating on quality and features over quantity and marketing gimmicks.

I agree with this entirely!

For Bucksears, I found a couple of usable flanger settings- on the "Flanger": depth 83, rate 7, reso 0, pred 4, mix 65, on the "VinFLNGR": depth 46, rate 5, reso 3, pred 4, mix 79. These sound great before an overdrive. After an overdrive I like "VinFLNGR": depth 46, rate 7, redo -4, pred 4, mix 21.

[desdinova]

But im just a little skeptical one this comparison as I can always tell when its digital distortion, even TS, the easiest and best sound model i hear in every sim i happen to test.

There have been numerous blind tests (recordings and live) between digital effects and their analog counterparts, most importantly, in the context of a band mix. In almost all cases, experienced players couldn't hear a difference or have mistaken the emulation for the real thing. ;)

But I think I understand what you're saying; sometimes we get accustomed to the idiosyncrasies of a particular pedal that we find its tone "unique". Has happened to me many times, but always while playing alone, not in a mix.

[62Tele]

Can anyone compare the amp emulation to a Tech21 pedal?

[Bucksears]

For Bucksears, I found a couple of usable flanger settings- on the "Flanger": depth 83, rate 7, reso 0, pred 4, mix 65, on the "VinFLNGR": depth 46, rate 5, reso 3, pred 4, mix 79. These sound great before an overdrive. After an overdrive I like "VinFLNGR": depth 46, rate 7, redo -4, pred 4, mix 21.

Thanks! I'll give those a try. The G3 is growing on me more, but having a little harder time with the chorus than I was a few days ago. Clean, it's perfect, but with a distortion in front of it (I like to modulate my distortions, not distort my modulations), it's going to take some tweaking.

[SeeMoore]

Thanks! I'll give those a try. The G3 is growing on me more, but having a little harder time with the chorus than I was a few days ago. Clean, it's perfect, but with a distortion in front of it (I like to modulate my distortions, not distort my modulations), it's going to take some tweaking.

Hi Buck, I really don't fool with the chorus', I use the "detune" it gets a better chorus sound and it works with overdrive and distortion. Just leave the "cent" pramamater on 0

[desdinova]

I was wondering how many people have sold their POD HD when they got the G3.

Not to start any fight with Line6 fans, but are there people feeling the G3 can replace the HD for their needs?

[desdinova]

I agree with you all the way.

but an important part of my playing is alone, amps and stomp boxes are outrageously expensive in my country, i have all the reasons and needs to use digital distortion i just cant bear it, i have never felt satisfied or compelled to play using modellers for distortion, to practice or compose.

i understand this is no truth, its just how i react to it.

What country are you in?

I can understand exactly what you mean. Let us not forget, even the "mojo" from certain gear is desirable, if it makes you a better player, and you make better music. I know full well that my Warmoth Strat would play and sound exactly the same if it was black... but I enjoy playing it much more because it's a beautiful Candy Tangerine! ;)

BTW, digital distortion has each place apart from emulation. It allows for a much tighter "in the mix" sound for some genres and the digital domain allows for some quite clever tricks, like the ones pulled by the guys at Source Audio with their Multiwave Distortion.

[desdinova]

im in brazil, you would cry for days in pity if i told u how much a boss stomp, a american strat or an deluxe reverb costs here.

OK... but, OTOH, the Women... :omg;)

[heretic]

I was wondering how many people have sold their POD HD when they got the G3.

Not to start any fight with Line6 fans, but are there people feeling the G3 can replace the HD for their needs?

i think it's a valid question. How does the amp modeling stack up against the HD's? Anyone have both?

[Earl Mobile]

hey guys,

has somebody compared the amp models int the G3 with the pod hd series?

[desdinova]

hey guys,

has somebody compared the amp models int the G3 with the pod hd series?

I've seen a couple of posts mentioning that they send back their POD HD after getting the G3. This is why I asked this question also.

I had a HD300 for trial for a few days, but I can't compare them safely. All I can say is, the HD amp sims haven't impressed me as much as G3's. I had the M13 for a long time (same effects as the HD) and, for sound, I prefer most of Zoom's better.

[Earl Mobile]

I've seen a couple of posts mentioning that they send back their POD HD after getting the G3. This is why I asked this question also.

I had a HD300 for trial for a few days, but I can't compare them safely. All I can say is, the HD amp sims haven't impressed me as much as G3's. I had the M13 for a long time (same effects as the HD) and, for sound, I prefer most of Zoom's better.


sounds good, i just ordered one...we'll see...

[62Tele]

I'd still like to know how the amp sims compare to a Tech 21.

[marillion]

I sold my hd300 and i'm on my way for a G3 as it is more practical for my needs. I've heard also some clips from mr desdinova that really impressed me!
will tell ya soon.....

[uburoibob]

I'd still like to know how the amp sims compare to a Tech 21.

I am not crazy about Tech 21 stuff, and I love the Zoom amp sims. Dunno if they sound like THE real amps or not, but they certainly sound, and perform, like real amps.

Bob

[huutevar]

I like the effects better than the M9 I had. I've never had an HD or Tech 21 character pedal, though.

[desdinova]

I'd still like to know how the amp sims compare to a Tech 21.

Never had a Character pedal. I have a TM10 and had a Power Engine, and, in general I'm a great fan of Tech21 stuff.

From what I've heard (in person and through clips), each of the Character pedals has a lot of "width" in it; e.g. a Blonde pedal emulates several Fender flavors. You can also tweak the tone quite a bit. OTOH, the Zoom, as well as all other modelers, has specific emulations but has quite a lot of "depth" in each of them. The tone controls as well as the "tube" and "presense" controls are very helpful in dialing in the tone you are after.

I guess, if you are after a variety of, say, Marshall tones, you go for the Character. If you want more variety in general with good tones in any selection, you go for the Zoom. I mention this because they are quite close in pricing, for someone seeking an amp emulation device.


I sold my hd300 and i'm on my way for a G3 as it is more practical for my needs. I've heard also some clips from mr desdinova that really impressed me!
will tell ya soon.....

Welcome to TGP George! See you Saturday, when you can beat the $hit out of the G3! ;)

[marillion]

Welcome to TGP George! See you Saturday, when you can beat the $hit out of the G3! ;)

looking forward to........:rockin

[tiktokman]

Funky Monkey and I are gonna side by side the HD500 and G3 this coming Monday. We'll be running into a 44 Magnum then into a 12" Celestion or a 10" Eminence Red Fang, depending on which one I have wired up.

Any requests as to what we should directly compare? My guitars are a Les Paul Standard and a Reverend Buckshot, both stock. Not sure what he'll bring to the party.

Should be fun.

[desdinova]

Funky Monkey and I are gonna side by side the HD500 and G3 this coming Monday. We'll be running into a 44 Magnum then into a 12" Celestion or a 10" Eminence Red Fang, depending on which one I have wired up.

Any requests as to what we should directly compare? My guitars are a Les Paul Standard and a Reverend Buckshot, both stock. Not sure what he'll bring to the party.

Should be fun.

That would be great!

Don't know what are the common amp sims between the two... I guess you'll have to work with the best approximations. I'd say, compare the core amp tones alone, dry, at first. Then add just one effect, like a TS or a reverb and work for there.

A suggestion would be to try and incorporate the "best" settings in every preset you make, in each of the two, not trying to keep them "similar" because they have quite different settings. Also, feel, dynamics response etc, although somewhat subjective, would be nice to hear about!

Good luck and I'm eager for your results/comments/opinions!!

[JackBruce]

My humble suggestion is that you record a direct signal with whatever rif, then reamp that same riff and record the result once with the HD and once with the G3 and pick some similar models if you can, like lets say a fender or marshall amp that exist in both units. Before you hit record play back what you've recorded and see if you can get close to it with the other unit. It would be interesting to see how the same identical riff will sound in each unit using the same setting in the different amps if possible.

I realize that the G3 doesn't have that many amps, but the FD are fenders and the HW is a high wat Ms maybe marshall.. how about leaving the amp in the same position and then running the riff.. from a listening point that would give a good idea on the difference in sound but from the feel aspect, you would be the only one who can compare..

Just a thought..


Funky Monkey and I are gonna side by side the HD500 and G3 this coming Monday. We'll be running into a 44 Magnum then into a 12" Celestion or a 10" Eminence Red Fang, depending on which one I have wired up.

Any requests as to what we should directly compare? My guitars are a Les Paul Standard and a Reverend Buckshot, both stock. Not sure what he'll bring to the party.

Should be fun.

[otter5555]

I've seen a couple of posts mentioning that they send back their POD HD after getting the G3. This is why I asked this question also.

I had a HD300 for trial for a few days, but I can't compare them safely. All I can say is, the HD amp sims haven't impressed me as much as G3's. I had the M13 for a long time (same effects as the HD) and, for sound, I prefer most of Zoom's better.


I had a hd 500 for several months. i considered it a giant step forward from my other pods.

i ebayed the hd 500 2 days after buying the g3

for my uses, the g3 is superior:

better sounding amp models across the board

the "tube knob" on the g3 is sweet in use and "sags"

about 1/2 price

the "feel" is at least as good as the hd 500


but most of all, no endless tweaking. 5 minutes= great amp sounds

the hd series is wonderful

the g3 (for my uses: gigging/recording) is just more wonderful :)

you cant go wrong with either

otter

[ElDiabloBlanco]

I demo'd the G3 today. I own an HD500 and a Tech 21 Liverpool, so I think I have a good point of reference. I focused on the amp sims, as this would be the main deal for me. I ran the G3 through the effects return of a Blackstar combo in my store with the effects off, focusing on purely the amp sounds. I really wanted to like it, but I wasn't feeling the G3's amp sims at all - the guys that work for me even said they sounded pretty artificial. I have to spend more time with it and bring one of my Power Engines in to have a familiar component amplifying the signal. I would love to pick one up if can make it sound good. What am I missing here, guys? I'm not trolling - any tips on dialing this in would be great.

[62Tele]

I demo'd the G3 today. I own an HD500 and a Tech 21 Liverpool, so I think I have a good point of reference. I focused on the amp sims, as this would be the main deal for me. I ran the G3 through the effects return of a Blackstar combo in my store with the effects off, focusing on purely the amp sounds. I really wanted to like it, but I wasn't feeling the G3's amp sims at all - the guys that work for me even said they sounded pretty artificial. I have to spend more time with it and bring one of my Power Engines in to have a familiar component amplifying the signal. I would love to pick one up if can make it sound good. What am I missing here, guys? I'm not trolling - any tips on dialing this in would be great.

I don't know a lot about the Blackstar, so perhaps I'm blowing smoke, but most of the amp sim devices seem to be at their best through a full range setup. I'd be really interested to hear how the three would compare through a PA or full range powered monitor.

Thanks to all of you who addressed my Tech 21 question. I'd love to find a single unit that could give me a Fender tone, maybe one or two other amp tones, reverb and trem. This unit may just fit the bill, especially with the balanced line out. One thing I really wished they had included would be an aux in - if the amp sims sound good through headphones and I could blend in an iPod, it could make for a great practice tool as well.

[killerburst]

Make sure you set the output mode to match your situation (combo return jack, in this case). Then, if that doesn't work, try the other modes to see if one of the other ones suits you better. Also, try plugging into the front of the amp. I use mine in front of an Allen Accomplice and it sounds killer. Finally, there's always the chance it just doesn't sound good to you. Different strokes, as they say. For me, the looper/drum machine is a great little jam tool along with the huge FX palette. I'd be good with it even without the amp sims, just to use as a versatile little programmable pedalboard in front of a clean amp. But the amp sims are great to my ears. Turns my accomplice into a Mark IIC+!