G system

[benttop]

Well I finally got my "real" Ethercon cable. This thing is really well made! List was right around $40 and shipping was eight bucks, so it cost almost a fifty dollar bill, but it looks like it will last forever, so I'm not complaining. Well, until I tried to plug it in to the board. When I pulled the processor out of there, the manual suggested that it's a pretty important thing to mount up a 1-space blank, so I had done that. But the Ethercon cable can't get in there! No room, so I check the manual, and it says oh yeah, you might want to pull the screws and rotate that panel by 180 degrees so it can get in there. But the panel is biting into the cord laying on the floor below, and there's still barely any room to insert and remove the cable. Wish I had done a 90 degree plug! Check them out at http://www.guitar-cable.com

So I wired up most of my rack (had another project pushing this one to the back burner all week) and fired up. Very cool being able to control the rack from the other end of a 35 foot Ethernet cable! Except... try as I might, I could NOT find any way to switch the input to the front of the processor. Did that menu item get moved in a software update? The manual says it's in the routing page, but all I get there are Serial, Serial/Parallel, and Parellel. No input routing. What's up with that?

[Mike33]

Well I finally got my "real" Ethercon cable. This thing is really well made! List was right around $40 and shipping was eight bucks, so it cost almost a fifty dollar bill, but it looks like it will last forever, so I'm not complaining. Well, until I tried to plug it in to the board. When I pulled the processor out of there, the manual suggested that it's a pretty important thing to mount up a 1-space blank, so I had done that. But the Ethercon cable can't get in there! No room, so I check the manual, and it says oh yeah, you might want to pull the screws and rotate that panel by 180 degrees so it can get in there. But the panel is biting into the cord laying on the floor below, and there's still barely any room to insert and remove the cable. Wish I had done a 90 degree plug! Check them out at http://www.guitar-cable.com

So I wired up most of my rack (had another project pushing this one to the back burner all week) and fired up. Very cool being able to control the rack from the other end of a 35 foot Ethernet cable! Except... try as I might, I could NOT find any way to switch the input to the front of the processor. Did that menu item get moved in a software update? The manual says it's in the routing page, but all I get there are Serial, Serial/Parallel, and Parellel. No input routing. What's up with that?


I had the same problem as you describe here but the solution for me was to use one of those 1-space blank... http://www.thomann.de/gb/thon_rackblende_1he_8xlr.htm and it works very well for me now.

To switch the input to the front of the processor you can do that in the "Menu mode" --> "Glb Levels". As I remember it's the last entry under "Glb Levels".

Hope I could help to a Dr.Z supporter...
Cheers from an proud MAZ 18 Jr. fan! :dude

[benttop]

I had the same problem as you describe here but the solution for me was to use one of those 1-space blank... http://www.thomann.de/gb/thon_rackblende_1he_8xlr.htm and it works very well for me now.

Thanks Mike!

To switch the input to the front of the processor you can do that in the "Menu mode" --> "Glb Levels". As I remember it's the last entry under "Glb Levels".
They must have moved it after the manual was released then. Thanks!


Hope I could help to a Dr.Z supporter...
Cheers from an proud MAZ 18 Jr. fan! :dude

Oh yeah, I have two now (Stingray and 6545), one on order (SRZ-65), and had one other (Mazerati), so I suppose you could say I'm a supporter... :) :AOK

[benttop]

Well my G-System is working pretty swell right now. I got everything integrated - had to make a couple slight changes of plan though. I ended up moving the processor to the top slot in my rack to keep the cords short (hadn't thought about how long they'd have to be with the processor under the shelf). And I realized I couldn't control my Lehle 3 @ 1 with only two relay contacts - it needs three. So I installed my Rocktron Patchmate from the old rack days and used three of its relays to control the Lehle. I'm controlling the Patchmate via MIDI. Very cool - it leaves me with 8 more relay contacts beween the two items, and I still have 7 loops available. YIKES! :) I only need three loops though, and besides, I can't fit anything more into this thing!

Heres' an updated diagram:

http://www.gear.strayca.com/images/Lashup3.png

But the best part is that now that I have it all running, I've been developing sounds, and it's going great. Everything I need is right there. This is going to be great!

[btdvox]

Finally got to check one of these out- Its pretty impressive i like most of the Modulation and wah sounds, the only weak point i found were the delays- I thought a DL 4 does a better job of delays and implementing them, also wish it had a loop sampler of some sort, But it was definitly user friendly. a big big plus- then again it has a pretty big price point also lol. But if someones just starting out a pedal collection and sounds they should dfeinitly think about this- though theres just some sounds you cant get from it that you can from pedals.

and you can get a MM4 and a DL 4 and some other effects for quite a bit cheaper.

[benttop]

Finally got to check one of these out- Its pretty impressive i like most of the Modulation and wah sounds, the only weak point i found were the delays- I thought a DL 4 does a better job of delays and implementing them, also wish it had a loop sampler of some sort, But it was definitly user friendly. a big big plus- then again it has a pretty big price point also lol. But if someones just starting out a pedal collection and sounds they should dfeinitly think about this- though theres just some sounds you cant get from it that you can from pedals.

and you can get a MM4 and a DL 4 and some other effects for quite a bit cheaper.

<myopinionmode>The DL4? When I tried that I thought the delays were all very weak - not that it didn't make delays, it's just that it models delays that weren't very good to begin with. There were many things I wanted to do that the DL4 was unable to accommodate. I would rather have a fully programmable delay, behind the preamp, than a modeled delay in front of the preamp. That makes a HUGE difference in fidelity if nothing else, but it's also flexible enough to allow a much wider range of effects. But as always, YMMV.</myopinionmode>

[2112]

I just bought the G-system and it should be here by Friday. I am excited to get it hooked up and start playing but I am looking for some setup help.

I swore I read somewhere in this thread an advanced setup for the best sound results but I can't find it now :o .

Could someone let me know what the best way to hook up the G-System to my amp, please :) ?

I have an Egnater MOD100 which has both a Series and Parallel Loop. For now, I don't plan on using any pedals with the setup other then Volume but I would like to eventually edit patches to switch channels via midi since the MOD100 has midi-in and midi-through.

Anyway, any help would be appriciated.

Oh and just to keep this as a good bump - is the Software Editor done yet :AOK .

Thanks,

John

[benttop]

First, a thousand pardons for the length of this - but I had already killed the .wav before I realized the .mp3 is just over 10 megs. Sorry about that - but you know, when you're wanking, time just slips away... http://s2.images.proboards.com/smiley.gif And the .wav was over 100 megs, so you can see why I let it flow to the bit bucket.

This clip was unplanned actually - I have been working on different patches for the G-System here, and was sitting in front of the cab and got this amazing sustain thing going with a hall reverb patch I was working on. So I hopped up and switched on the 01V96 and turned on Vegas Audio for a few minutes. Somewhere in the middle of all this wanking I just got into a weird version of Hey Joe - this was right after I switched the reverb off and the delay on. This is pure wankage, warts, clams, pitchiness, and all. http://s2.images.proboards.com/smiley.gif But I think it shows off some of the G-System's cool sounds...

Here are the details:

G-System Clip

Grosh Bent Top Custom > G-System > BB Preamp > Dr Z Stingray > Airbrake > Celestion Alnico Blues

BB Preamp had all knobs at noon except treble at 9 o'clock.

G-System had Compressor on, and BB Preamp in the loop.

First portion had Hall reverb. Second portion had delay.

Left mic: Rode NT-1 close to the front of the cab.

Right mic: Rode NT-1 about ten feet back, six feet in the air.

This was all the bridge pup on the Grosh.

And the Wank-o-Verb clip:

http://www.gear.strayca.com/audio/Stingray/TheWankO_Verb.mp3

[aksman]

How about some pics of everyone's g-system pedalboards and rigs?

[btdvox]

<myopinionmode>The DL4? When I tried that I thought the delays were all very weak - not that it didn't make delays, it's just that it models delays that weren't very good to begin with. There were many things I wanted to do that the DL4 was unable to accommodate. I would rather have a fully programmable delay, behind the preamp, than a modeled delay in front of the preamp. That makes a HUGE difference in fidelity if nothing else, but it's also flexible enough to allow a much wider range of effects. But as always, YMMV.</myopinionmode>

I really have never had a problem with the DL4 and have always been happy with the sound, ive had alot of the pedals that it models also and there pretty much very accurate, more over talking about memoryman, boss delay, h20. That being said i have not once thought the dl4's delays were weak, that would pretty much make it a crappy product, what were you unable to do with it? i find it to be pretty much fully programmable. Also i dont know how long you have with the G-system, but i thought that was one of the dl4's ups for sure and of course the loop sampler. obv all imo. Though i really like the auto wah sounds on the -gsystem.

[aksman]

dont overlook the request for your gsystem pics during the dl4 debate!

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[gounzy]

dont overlook the request for your gsystem pics during the dl4 debate!

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here's mine :
http://stephane.ferrando.free.fr/Media/Images/vrac/pedalboard/DSCF0008s.jpg

[aksman]

sweet! how do you run the triamp with it? midi?

[gounzy]

yes, my Triamp has the midi module.

[Mike33]

and here is mine...
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i136/mike331/IMG_1278.jpg

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i136/mike331/IMG_1265.jpg

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i136/mike331/IMG_0284.jpg

:NUTS

[aksman]

awesome. what order do you run those pedals in the chain and why? if you dont mind me asking.

i'm lookin to do somethin similar.

[benttop]

Well after that wank yesterday I was shamed into trying to rush through a real clip... http://s4.images.proboards.com/smiley.gif

I've always wanted to do Blue Jean Blues in a band, but I don't sing, and someone has to if you're going to do it, so it just has never happened. But it's still one of my favorite tunes, so I thought why not try a couple bars here...

I used Acid Pro to find a drum loop that was close enough, then I set the Stingray's tone all the way to the bassiest tone it can do and played some pretty weak bass into the recorder. Then I digitally lowered it's pitch an octave - not really very convincing bass, but it's what I have here! http://s4.images.proboards.com/smiley.gif

I played the lead track in and thought it needed some background, so went back and played a bit of background in. Here are the settings:

Another G-System Clip

Grosh Bent Top Custom > G-System > RC Booster > Stingray > Airbrake > Celestion Alnico Blues

RC Booster had all knobs at noon except volume was at 11 o'clock

G-System had compressor and delay on.

Left mic: Rode NT-1 close to the front of the cab.

Right mic: Rode NT-1 about ten feet back, six feet in the air.

Lead track was all the neck pup on the Grosh

Background track was neck/middle.

Bass was Grosh neck pup > Stingray with tone all bass, then drop an octave using Acid Pro.

Drums were done in Acid Pro

http://www.gear.strayca.com/audio/Stingray/BlueJeanBlues.mp3 (http://www.gear.strayca.com/audio/Stingray/BlueJeanBlues.mp3)

[gbtommasi]

Well after that wank yesterday I was shamed into trying to rush through a real clip... http://s4.images.proboards.com/smiley.gif

I've always wanted to do Blue Jean Blues in a band, but I don't sing, and someone has to if you're going to do it, so it just has never happened. But it's still one of my favorite tunes, so I thought why not try a couple bars here...

I used Acid Pro to find a drum loop that was close enough, then I set the Stingray's tone all the way to the bassiest tone it can do and played some pretty weak bass into the recorder. Then I digitally lowered it's pitch an octave - not really very convincing bass, but it's what I have here! http://s4.images.proboards.com/smiley.gif

I played the lead track in and thought it needed some background, so went back and played a bit of background in. Here are the settings:

Another G-System Clip

Grosh Bent Top Custom > G-System > RC Booster > Stingray > Airbrake > Celestion Alnico Blues

RC Booster had all knobs at noon except volume was at 11 o'clock

G-System had compressor and delay on.

Left mic: Rode NT-1 close to the front of the cab.

Right mic: Rode NT-1 about ten feet back, six feet in the air.

Lead track was all the neck pup on the Grosh

Background track was neck/middle.

Bass was Grosh neck pup > Stingray with tone all bass, then drop an octave using Acid Pro.

Drums were done in Acid Pro

http://www.gear.strayca.com/audio/Stingray/BlueJeanBlues.mp3 (http://www.gear.strayca.com/audio/Stingray/BlueJeanBlues.mp3)

Benttop, a really beautiful sound and a very nice playing, on both clips!

:)

[benttop]

Benttop, a really beautiful sound and a very nice playing, on both clips!

:)

Thanks! The G-System seems to be working great with the Stingray - I'm starting to have some fun with it now! :)

[mattww]

I'm pretty convinced I should go with the G-System but I unsure about how many cables I'm going to need and the best way to connect. I aim to keep my Bad Horsie 2 Wah, Boss DS-1, V-Stack BHM, Digitech Whammy and Little Aligator Volume pedal. My plan is to use my VOX AD120VT amp which has a stereo effects loop.

I'm guessing the Wah needs to be before the Guitar input on the G-System and the V-Stack and DS-1 could go in two of the insert loops?

I'm not sure about the Volume and Whammy pedals as these current go after my DS-1. I would then like the chorus, delays etc from the G-System in the amp effects loop - in stereo.

The manual only shows a mono combo amp setup or multi-amp stereo as far as I can see.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

[benttop]

I'm pretty convinced I should go with the G-System but I unsure about how many cables I'm going to need and the best way to connect. I aim to keep my Bad Horsie 2 Wah, Boss DS-1, V-Stack BHM, Digitech Whammy and Little Aligator Volume pedal. My plan is to use my VOX AD120VT amp which has a stereo effects loop.

I'm guessing the Wah needs to be before the Guitar input on the G-System and the V-Stack and DS-1 could go in two of the insert loops?

I'm not sure about the Volume and Whammy pedals as these current go after my DS-1. I would then like the chorus, delays etc from the G-System in the amp effects loop - in stereo.

The manual only shows a mono combo amp setup or multi-amp stereo as far as I can see.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

I'm thinking you would have to try a few things to know what works the best with your specific gear. You're right that you'll need the wah before the G-System input, and you can put a couple pedals in the loops. The Whammy may want to sit right next to your wah and be in front of the G-System. Volume could be done several ways depending on what you are trying to achieve with it, but the G-System does provide a Volume control input on the pedal so that you can control overall volume from there.

If you decide to keep all this on the floor, you'll need a pretty good sized pedalboard to capture it all. If you split the processor out and mount it in a rack, you're going to have to resolve some cable routing questions and perhaps some power issues for your wah and whammy sitting at your feet. So you'll end up with cable hell either way. I'd make a diagram! :)

[mattww]

I'm thinking you would have to try a few things to know what works the best with your specific gear. You're right that you'll need the wah before the G-System input, and you can put a couple pedals in the loops. The Whammy may want to sit right next to your wah and be in front of the G-System. Volume could be done several ways depending on what you are trying to achieve with it, but the G-System does provide a Volume control input on the pedal so that you can control overall volume from there.

If you decide to keep all this on the floor, you'll need a pretty good sized pedalboard to capture it all. If you split the processor out and mount it in a rack, you're going to have to resolve some cable routing questions and perhaps some power issues for your wah and whammy sitting at your feet. So you'll end up with cable hell either way. I'd make a diagram! :)

Thanks for your help. I would keep the G-System on the floor as it is for home use and I don't really have space for a rack.

I currently have my Whammy pedal after the distortion and reading the pdf manual it looks like the insert loops are routed one after the other? If so I assume I could put the DS-1 in say insert 1 and then the Whammy in one of the others and when both are on it would be the same as at present?

I currently use the volume pedal after the distortion so I can can change the volume of the distorted tone - I use the Guitar volume to clean things up. Any idea if it is possible to daisy chain the distortion and the volume in one loop?

[benttop]

Thanks for your help. I would keep the G-System on the floor as it is for home use and I don't really have space for a rack.

I currently have my Whammy pedal after the distortion and reading the pdf manual it looks like the insert loops are routed one after the other? If so I assume I could put the DS-1 in say insert 1 and then the Whammy in one of the others and when both are on it would be the same as at present?

I currently use the volume pedal after the distortion so I can can change the volume of the distorted tone - I use the Guitar volume to clean things up. Any idea if it is possible to daisy chain the distortion and the volume in one loop?

Will you use an effects loop on your amp, or everything in front of the amp? If everything is in front, you can obviously route the G-System signal through your volume pedal on the way to the amp. Even if you use a loop, you're taking your amp's send, routing through the processor, then returning a signal to the amp's return. Putting a volume pedal between the processor and the return would be the ideal place for volume if you want to control the level with distortion. You would even get your preamp's distortion in front of the volume pedal then.

All four loops are in series in the G-System, so you can use them as you say - the signal flows from one to the next. The G-System Wah/Filter and Compressor are in front of the loops, and the Noise Gate is after them. I find the noise gate to be of very high quality - I didn't even realize it was on until I shut it off and heard all the noise from my distortion box. :)

There is a gigantic image of the front panel of the processor unit at http://www.tcelectronic.com/media/G-System_Rackunit_front.jpg - on the front of that processor unit is a diagram that should make it very clear what goes through what and in which order. In case you have dial up and don't have all day for that image to download, the order is basically as follows:

Guitar > A/D > Filter > Compressor > D/A > Loop 1 > Loop 2 > Loop 3 > Loop 4 > Preamp Insert > A/D > Modulation > Pitch > Delay > Reverb > D/A > Amp

There are some options to rearrange some of this, but this is the default configuration. If you use your amp's effects loop, you would put your preamp in the Preamp Insert, otherwise everything runs straight through before getting to your amp. HTH!

[mattww]

Will you use an effects loop on your amp, or everything in front of the amp?

My aim is to put the Chorus, delays, reverb etc in the effects loop. I currently use a couple of delay pedals (Boss DD3 and and old Yamaha) along with a chorus (Marshall SV-1) in the loop. They sound much better in the loop than in front of the amp. I'm not that fond of the SV-1 so I was after a better Chorus (initially considered the TC Electronics SCF) and I would like easy access to different delays. I was also after a pitchshifter/harmonizer. It sounds like the G-system would be a much simpler option than another bunch of pedals and would give me greater control.

[benttop]

My aim is to put the Chorus, delays, reverb etc in the effects loop. I currently use a couple of delay pedals (Boss DD3 and and old Yamaha) along with a chorus (Marshall SV-1) in the loop. They sound much better in the loop than in front of the amp. I'm not that fond of the SV-1 so I was after a better Chorus (initially considered the TC Electronics SCF) and I would like easy access to different delays. I was also after a pitchshifter/harmonizer. It sounds like the G-system would be a much simpler option than another bunch of pedals and would give me greater control.

Well then it could look something like this:

Guitar > Wah > Whammy > A/D > Filter > Compressor > D/A > Loop 1 > Loop 2 > Loop 3 > Loop 4 > Your Volume Pedal > Your Preamp > A/D > Modulation > Pitch > Delay > Reverb > D/A > Your Power Amp

You would put your other effects in the loops of the G-System, and you could either stick your volume control in front of the preamp, behind the preamp, or use it as a controller to use the G-System to control volume. The only issue you have is whether you put the processor in a rack or not. The reason that's an issue is that if you want to use your amp's effects loop, you don't really want to run those signals all the way out to the front of stage. If you're just using it at home, that isn't as much an issue.

[mattww]

Well then it could look something like this:

Guitar > Wah > Whammy > A/D > Filter > Compressor > D/A > Loop 1 > Loop 2 > Loop 3 > Loop 4 > Your Volume Pedal > Your Preamp > A/D > Modulation > Pitch > Delay > Reverb > D/A > Your Power Amp




That looks great. The only change I would make is to move the Whammy between the volume pedal and the preamp (to get it after the distortion). Time to get the credit card out I think and get in touch with a few shops!

[DrRedD]

Dear Tore,

Any update on the next software update - release date????

or the software editor?

Cheers

DrRedD

[Tore TC]

Hi everybody,

Sorry for not posting in here for a while, but I've been at NAMM and stayed in the US afterwards.

The software editor and next software release will come out at the same time and we hope to have a public beta of the editor out this month.

Cheers,
Tore

[gbtommasi]

Hi everybody,

Sorry for not posting in here for a while, but I've been at NAMM and stayed in the US afterwards.

The software editor and next software release will come out at the same time and we hope to have a public beta of the editor out this month.

Cheers,
Tore

Tore, wonderful news!
BTW, I saw you on the video from NAMM on tc's site, congrats for the very professional attitude!:AOK

And now, some stuff for all of you guys, as I have been using G-System during three gigs in Italy and abroad during the last month, with different amps and different setups, and I am finally able to make a real report which I hope will be useful. Of course, any of the statements that follow reflect what I have been able to hear, and in most cases are just my opinions :)

First of all, flexibility and versatility:
I used the g-system live with my amp (marshall TSL50 Head), and with an early JCM800 single channel equipped with two G12-65. Of course, the two amps are pretty different to setup, because the 800 does not have an effects loop. The result is that i just turned the preamp insert off and all my presets worked beautifully right in front of the amp! Very easy, very fast: I was able to make a soundcheck in less than 5 mins, which is essential to me, especially when you are abroad, working with people and stuff you don't know.

Reliability:
No problems at all, even after airplane transport in a soft gigbag in the plane's hold and on bagage tape at the airport (problems of luggage weight: i could not bring my flight case with me). Sturdy, rock solid indeed.

Tuning:
after the travel from Rome to Brussels my PRS suffered a lot of cold in the plane's hold, and the gig was just a few hours from the landing. She kept going out off tune during all the gig for this reason, and despite of this i was able to tune fast during the songs (even in a 5 secs pause) using volume pedal and the always-on tuner, which is very clear and precise.

Effects:
With both setups, I noticed a lot of important things about effets:
- wha: it was a major compliant, but using it on stage made me change my mind. It works well, and it is very nice, not digital sounding at all when mixed to other instruments. Now I (almost) love it.
- comp: the best surprise of the g-system. I bought it for mods, delays, routing and management options, but i would have never thought the comp could be that naturally and beautifully sounding.
- Delays: whoa! they are there, but they never reallty interfere with the main sound unless you want them to. Sound texture is just perfect. I only use tape, dual, dynamic and reverse on one piece: amusing and effective.
- mods: It's a TC, enough said. Chewy, deep and yet never sounding 'out of tune' as with a lot of choruses and flangers. Phaser is the best of the lot IMO.
- pitch shifting: detune is really good. Intellignt pitch is astonishing considering the price! yes, it is not an Eventide, but believe me, it is damn close. Useful, useful, useful. The whammy is a bit difficult to use with my exp pedal. The sound is good but not exceptional, still I would not add a whammy for this. It's all I need (I use whammy on just one song).
- Reverb: very warm and natural. Rich, present and yet not invasive, which makes the difference between professional reverbs and the rest of the world!

Major complaints:
Yes, i already said that. Volume adjustement is not fast enough, both using the pedal or programming different volume levels in different preset (preset change is immediate, volume adjustement follows after a noticeable amount of time, causing your level adjustement to be very audible).
Three Bands EQ is not easy to tweak: I usually can't dial in the sound i am seeking, but maybe it's a problem of mine... I don't really know.
Effects Routing Options. It would be very useful having a matrix similar to the G-Force one, of course just for the effects managed by the second dsp.

Sorry for the length of this 'report', but I hope it will be useful for other users :)
I definetely love it, and after using it I now need it!

[DrRedD]

Hi Tore,

any news for us?

thanks

DrRedD

[Tore TC]

Hi,

Sorry - no news yet... the software guys are still working on it.

@ gbtommasi: The Volume pedal latency will be fixed in a new software version that will be released along with the Editor.

[Stevo57]

new Gsystem owner here. Is there a consensus as to which expression and volume pedals work the best with it? I'm using a Boss FV200 for volume and it works OK , but I'm mainly using it to wet mix in a two amp setup. I think I could do better for pure volume swells and such, with a better pedal.

[trsU2]

new Gsystem owner here. Is there a consensus as to which expression and volume pedals work the best with it? I'm using a Boss FV200 for volume and it works OK , but I'm mainly using it to wet mix in a two amp setup. I think I could do better for pure volume swells and such, with a better pedal.


I've read where guys have used Ernie Ball volume pedals (need a Y cable) for expression but they're not designed to be expression pedals. I've seen pics of professional players using them too, presumably as expression pedals since there's multiple ones on the stage. I experimented and got my EB volume pedal to work but it doesn't have the same feel, particularly if you want to use it for wah or whammy functions. The TC site mentions a few others such as Rocktron but I haven't seen them in too many music stores.

When I first got my G System, I looked around and there weren't a ton of expression pedals out there. I settled for a Yamaha that my closest Guitar Center had in stock....it's basically heavy rubber and plastic but it has worked very well. It's better than the new Boss ones which are small and lightweight plastic...afraid I'd break it.

Once you find one you like, there's TONS of ways you can use it...you'll enjoy.

[sinasl1]

Please please, I reiterate- a modulated delay (vibrato on repeats) would be wonderful, as would leslie and univibe effects. Then it'd really have it all going on.

[Stevo57]

Have you used the Gsystem with your Badger Pete? My Badger is on the truck for tomorrow's delivery!

[benttop]

Got to use the G-System live for the first time this past weekend. Overall it worked great! I had to tweak up some levels for live work (vs the levels I had set in my studio) and it was simple and easy to do between songs. I definitely appreciated the way the thing is laid out - I realized I had set up some presets that I just didn't need because the thing is so flexible. And I got a number of ideas while playing of presets that I could use more effectively. Everyone who saw the unit was amazed and impressed, and the sound guy was hovering near to try to get some of my karma I guess... :) Anyway, it was a great success. I still need to clean up my rack implementation, but can't do that till some cable comes. Overall I'm very pleased.

[sixstringmonk]

Does anyone know of a listing of what all the default values are for things such as loop level, headroom, input level etc?? That would be a handy listing for getting your G-System back to normal after messing around with it.

[DrRedD]

Yeah a default list would be great!

Guys - I want to go down the 'rack' route with the G-System.

Can anyone help me out in terms of the right rack size/height I should go - so basically I need one that will fit the G-System rack in the top and also hold up to the maximum 4 stomp boxes/units i'll be using??

And i'll need an ethernet lead - i heard the Line6 one for the Variax was good quality - anyone confirm??

I was thinking maybe a 2L or 3L rack unit - actually i don't even know what the L means - i need major help here guys!

any suggestions would be gratfully received...............

PS - I'm in th UK

[stratman0602]

Yeah a default list would be great!

Guys - I want to go down the 'rack' route with the G-System.

Can anyone help me out in terms of the right rack size/height I should go - so basically I need one that will fit the G-System rack in the top and also hold up to the maximum 4 stomp boxes/units i'll be using??

And i'll need an ethernet lead - i heard the Line6 one for the Variax was good quality - anyone confirm??

I was thinking maybe a 2L or 3L rack unit - actually i don't even know what the L means - i need major help here guys!

any suggestions would be gratfully received...............

PS - I'm in th UK

I am planning to go the same way ... but I'm considering that the G System unit mounted in the rack needs to plugged into some sort of power conditioner. Mounting the pedals on a sliding shelf in the rack eats up to spaces so you are looking at minimum 3 space rack but I would go for at least 4 to be sure :RoCkIn

[benttop]

I ended up putting mine in a five space rack and I'm glad I did, because as I was integrating and programming I realized that I was one relay contact short for what I had planned to do. So I scrounged up my old Rocktron Patchmate and stuck it in the one empty slot.

The other thing is, sliding shelves don't seem to come in a depth that is compatible with a typical guitar rack. My rack is only 11" deep but the smallest shelf I could find was 13 3/4" deep. That's why I ended up manufacturing my own shelf. The problem with doing that is that now I would like to move mine to a different position, and I have to unscrew virtually everything to do that. Not ideal, but it works. YMMV.

[stratman0602]

I ended up putting mine in a five space rack and I'm glad I did, because as I was integrating and programming I realized that I was one relay contact short for what I had planned to do. So I scrounged up my old Rocktron Patchmate and stuck it in the one empty slot.

The other thing is, sliding shelves don't seem to come in a depth that is compatible with a typical guitar rack. My rack is only 11" deep but the smallest shelf I could find was 13 3/4" deep. That's why I ended up manufacturing my own shelf. The problem with doing that is that now I would like to move mine to a different position, and I have to unscrew virtually everything to do that. Not ideal, but it works. YMMV.

Steve -- what OD/Distortion effects (if any) are you inserting in the G System's 4 loops? BTW--- nice Grosh :AOK

[benttop]

Steve -- what OD/Distortion effects (if any) are you inserting in the G System's 4 loops? BTW--- nice Grosh :AOK

Thanks! BB Preamp, Barber Burn Unit, and RC Booster.

:RoCkIn

[sinasl1]

Have you used the Gsystem with your Badger Pete? My Badger is on the truck for tomorrow's delivery!

Did you get it? Yes, I've used it... with loop and without... the loop on the Badger is great, works very well in the 5th loop of the G-System..

[Stevo57]

Badger arrived yesterday. Gsystem in loop 5, Box of Rock in loop 1, 2nd output to 5E3 deluxe. Big fat fun!

[DrRedD]

Thanks for the suggestions on the rack cases. Much appreciated.

I have another question which I hope you guys can help me out on:

I'm not very happy with the Boost function on the G-System - I find the attenuation messes with the tone too much IMO for my set-up.

I use the G-system with an Orange Rockerverb 50 head and wire it up using the 4 cable method - insert loop etc......

Now I need a boost pedal for my dirty channel which i would like to put in Loop1 in the G-System so it can be controlled per patch.

I got myself a Durham Electronic Sex Drive to do the Job, it didn't work so well - on my clean channel it's great, but on the cirty channel it's not so hot, in fact i'd go so far as to say crap.

I seem to have 2 choices:

Dytone Fet Booster
or
TC-Electronic Classic Booster+Distortion

I'd prefer to go with the TC, but the Fet Booster is cheaper.

The issue is now, after speaking to a few people, that because the way the G-System and amp are routed it isn't likely that a boost pedal in Loop1 will increase the volume of the dirty channel on my amp???They said it would probably just add a bit more distortion rather than increasing the volume???

Can that be right??

Not sure what to do - I'm basically trying to boost my dirty channel to come up over the band for solos etc.....but i want it controlled per patch.

any ideas??

DrRedD

[orangenoise]

I use the G-Sys with an Orange RV50 too and have a slightly different approach to this scenerio. I also don't use the boost feature of the G-Sys... not because of tonal issues; but just never got along with the idea to begin with. I like having my volume/gain levels setup sorta like using a guitar's volume knob. So here's what I do...

I have the RV50 Dirty channel set to a good crunchy/lead type tone. (On my amp the gain is at 1 O'clock.) Then I use the G-Sys compressor set to not compress at all; but I use the overall gain to reduce the input into the amp and boost it when needed. Basically they're at...

Sting... -20db
Jangle... -15db
Normal Crunch/Lead... no compressor
Heavy Chunk/Lead... +8db

The volume differences between Sting and Heavy Chunk/Lead are pretty subsantial and so the need for a boost (at least in my case) is not there.

Now, for my situation, I'm never playing heavy and then need a boost to get above the band. I'm always playing rhythm/leads with lower gain and then choose one of the higher gain settings to get up there. You could take this same application and morph it to your needs though.

I hope this helps out...

-rob

ps. I've heard alot of feedback over at the Orange forum about using a clean boost in the RV50's effects loop for volume/solo boosts. Something akin to the RC Booster or Micro-amp.

[DrRedD]

Nice, I'll give it a go.

So might be an idea for me to use the compressor only on the Lead patch I want - leave all other patches without compression.

Could i be cheeky and ask what all the other settings in the compression are for your Chunk/Lead Comp settings????

[orangenoise]

All the compressors are the Sustaining Compressor with Drive at 1, Resp at 10 and gain set to appropriate levels (what I listed in my other post).

-rob

[DrRedD]

Ace, many thanks rob :)

[sixstringmonk]

What you've heard is true regarding using a pedal in the loop to boost volume. If the boost comes before the gain stage of your amp, it will just drive the preamp harder and you'll get more distortion. If you don't need this functionality to be programmed, then you can do as orange noise said and get a clean boost pedal and place it between the final output of your g-system and the effects return. That way when you click on the boost, you'll be boosting the entire g-system signal that is going to the power stage of your amp.

[DrRedD]

What you've heard is true regarding using a pedal in the loop to boost volume. If the boost comes before the gain stage of your amp, it will just drive the preamp harder and you'll get more distortion. If you don't need this functionality to be programmed, then you can do as orange noise said and get a clean boost pedal and place it between the final output of your g-system and the effects return. That way when you click on the boost, you'll be boosting the entire g-system signal that is going to the power stage of your amp.

Thanks that all makes more sense - However I really wanted it all to be automated and I think I have had an idea - it may be crazy so stop me if i'm off!

the way i see it from the routing path internaly in the G-System : it goes basically: Guitar -> Filter -> Comp -> Loop 1 - 4 -> Insert Loop -> the rest -> Out.

From what I gather the Insert Loop is really just another Loop, no difference than the Loops 1 - 4.

So what if I for example used whatever pedals I wanted in Loops 1 - 3. Used Loop 4 for my preamp Loop and put the Boost Pedal in the Insert Loop.

That way (from what I think anyway) the Boost would be 'after' the pre-amp and hence actually boost the level?

This way everything can be programmed per patch, rather than putting something in after the g-system where we enter the realms of requiring 4 feet!

would that work or am i being crazy??obviously I should try it - but i'm not in the studio until Sunday - just bouncing ideas.....

Appreciate ur thoughts as always

DrRedD......

[orangenoise]

Yep that would work just fine. I actually use my RV in loop 4 anyways. The insert loop did not react well with the RV (lowered volume/dynamics considerably). Shoud do just fine for you...

[benttop]

Thanks that all makes more sense - However I really wanted it all to be automated and I think I have had an idea - it may be crazy so stop me if i'm off!

the way i see it from the routing path internaly in the G-System : it goes basically: Guitar -> Filter -> Comp -> Loop 1 - 4 -> Insert Loop -> the rest -> Out.

From what I gather the Insert Loop is really just another Loop, no difference than the Loops 1 - 4.

So what if I for example used whatever pedals I wanted in Loops 1 - 3. Used Loop 4 for my preamp Loop and put the Boost Pedal in the Insert Loop.

That way (from what I think anyway) the Boost would be 'after' the pre-amp and hence actually boost the level?

This way everything can be programmed per patch, rather than putting something in after the g-system where we enter the realms of requiring 4 feet!

would that work or am i being crazy??obviously I should try it - but i'm not in the studio until Sunday - just bouncing ideas.....

Appreciate ur thoughts as always

DrRedD......

The only problem I see is that you can't program a pedal to turn on and off the insert loop. If you have your boost in a rack, it's just going to be on all the time. Unless I've missed something, I don't see how this would work.

[jaf]

The only problem I see is that you can't program a pedal to turn on and off the insert loop. If you have your boost in a rack, it's just going to be on all the time. Unless I've missed something, I don't see how this would work.
My thoughts exactly.

You could run something like Lyle's Lumos after the preamp in the insert loop and use one of the loops to switch it on and off (I'm not sure weather the g-sys uses a loop for this or has separate control function switches but I know it can switch it one way or the other)

http://psionicaudio.com/main/lumos.htm

[benttop]

My thoughts exactly.

You could run something like Lyle's Lumos after the preamp in the insert loop and use one of the loops to switch it on and off (I'm not sure weather the g-sys uses a loop for this or has separate control function switches but I know it can switch it one way or the other)

http://psionicaudio.com/main/lumos.htm

If you had a boost that had a remote switch input, you could put it in the insert and trigger it from the relay contacts.

[orangenoise]

The insert loop can be switched in and out of presets just like any other loop. Just need to program it and turn the insert loop lock off.

-rob

[benttop]

The insert loop can be switched in and out of presets just like any other loop. Just need to program it and turn the insert loop lock off.

-rob

Really? Wow, that's news here. Well that opens up some interesting possibilities. I could literally A/B two preamps. Hmmm.... fascinating!

[DrRedD]

Yeah that's what I thought about the Insert Loop.

It's just the same as the Loops 1-4 - and can be on or off per patch.

I think this will work then - I'll use Loop 4 for the preamp and Insert Loop (Loop 5) for the boost.

Job done!!

I'll give it a go tomorrow night and let you know how it goes - hopefully I can used my 'sex drive' as the boost

Cheers guys

DrRedD

[Tore TC]

Hi guys,

just wanted to clarify what you already figured out. :)

The insert loop is just like the other 4 loops. The only difference is that the insert loop is buffered, so that you can run long cables back to your amp/ preamp without any audio degradation. It can be used and controlled like any of the other 4 loops.

[DrRedD]

Thanks Tore,

So my plan will work i take it from what you are saying.

If I have the Preamp of my amp in Loop 4 and my Boost pedal in the Insert Loop (Loop 5) then when using the dirty channel of my amp if I switch the boost on I'll get an actual volume boost to the dirty channel rather than just driving the tubes harder (adding gain basically) if it was 'before' the preamp and not really increasing the volume??

Many thanks

DrRedD

[benttop]

Thanks Tore,

So my plan will work i take it from what you are saying.

If I have the Preamp of my amp in Loop 4 and my Boost pedal in the Insert Loop (Loop 5) then when using the dirty channel of my amp if I switch the boost on I'll get an actual volume boost to the dirty channel rather than just driving the tubes harder (adding gain basically) if it was 'before' the preamp and not really increasing the volume??

Many thanks

DrRedD

Be sure to let us know how this works out.

[sixstringmonk]

I'm using a G-System with a Carvin Legacy. I am using the amp's preamp in the G-Sys insert and then running the left out of the G-Sys back into fx return. I've only experienced one recurring bug with switching channels with a modulation effect on, but I'll get to that in another post.

The most pressing issue I have with the G-sys is that it seems to have a high noise floor. I get a humming sound even when my guitar's volume is all the way off. I've tried different guitars. It's only apparent when I am running the gain channel on my amp. I've ruled out the amp's effects loop by taking out the g-system and running a cable directly between the send and return on the amp. I've tried filtered power and a ebtech humex, and neither have done any good, so I am assuming it is inherent to the g-sys and not some sort of grounding issue. I can get the noise gate to take care of it, but it seems odd that the unit produces that much noise on it's own.

[DrRedD]

I get a lot of noise on the dirty channel also.

do you use the unit in 'rack' mode or 'floorboard' mode?

I'm using it in florrboard mode and using long cables - I have a feeling switching to 'rack' mode and getting the cables much much shorter will help reduce the noise.

leads any longer than 3m will cause noise i think especially around strip lighting and dimmer switches.

DrRedD

[benttop]

I'm using a G-System with a Carvin Legacy. I am using the amp's preamp in the G-Sys insert and then running the left out of the G-Sys back into fx return. I've only experienced one recurring bug with switching channels with a modulation effect on, but I'll get to that in another post.

The most pressing issue I have with the G-sys is that it seems to have a high noise floor. I get a humming sound even when my guitar's volume is all the way off. I've tried different guitars. It's only apparent when I am running the gain channel on my amp. I've ruled out the amp's effects loop by taking out the g-system and running a cable directly between the send and return on the amp. I've tried filtered power and a ebtech humex, and neither have done any good, so I am assuming it is inherent to the g-sys and not some sort of grounding issue. I can get the noise gate to take care of it, but it seems odd that the unit produces that much noise on it's own.

You don't really give enough information to diagnose it. I'm running mine in a rack with fairly short cables to the amp and I'm not hearing any noise at all. The things I'd be interested in knowing are how long are your cables, what's in the loops (and are any of them on) and have you tried different cables than the ones you've been trying to use. I've been thinking this has to be a cable issue. On the other hand, I'm not trying to use a high gain amp either (Dr. Z Stingray) so it could be something related to the higher gain you're using (higher gain preamp, less shielding on cable, etc.).

Usually if I have a problem like this, I start taking things out of the equation until I find the one thing that makes a difference. That usually gives me enough of a clue to determine what's causing it. You do that by figuring out the path of the signal from your guitar to the speaker, and taking bits out that you can take out. Here's how I'd do it in your case:

1. Try plugging the guitar straight in to the front of the amp instead of taking the insert out over there (while leaving the rest of the system connected as usual). Did the noise disappear? If yes, the problem is between the G-System input and the input of your amp. If no, then put that cable back and go to the next step.
2. Disconnect the two cords between your amp's effects loop and the G-System - pull them completely out (but leave the rest of the system connected). Did the problem go away? If yes, then it must be something to do with the cables, unless your G-System is broken...

[aksman]

^ i dont have the g-system, but if you're running the compressor high or have it after any drives, i think that would add a hum.

[sinasl1]

I'm using a G-System with a Carvin Legacy. I am using the amp's preamp in the G-Sys insert and then running the left out of the G-Sys back into fx return. I've only experienced one recurring bug with switching channels with a modulation effect on, but I'll get to that in another post.

The most pressing issue I have with the G-sys is that it seems to have a high noise floor. I get a humming sound even when my guitar's volume is all the way off. I've tried different guitars. It's only apparent when I am running the gain channel on my amp. I've ruled out the amp's effects loop by taking out the g-system and running a cable directly between the send and return on the amp. I've tried filtered power and a ebtech humex, and neither have done any good, so I am assuming it is inherent to the g-sys and not some sort of grounding issue. I can get the noise gate to take care of it, but it seems odd that the unit produces that much noise on it's own.

Did you ground lift the power (or try a hum-x) on the G-system/your whole pedalboard??

[sinasl1]

oh sorry, you said u tried a hum-x... hmm i dunno.

[Viljami]

Sorry to jump into different subject, but the thing i miss the most in G-System are:

1. Modulating delay. Something similar that D-Two has would be great.

2. It would be nice to be able to switch between different delays within one preset. Now i have to create separate presets for different delays.

Jake

[benttop]

Sorry to jump into different subject, but the thing i miss the most in G-System are:

1. Modulating delay. Something similar that D-Two has would be great.

2. It would be nice to be able to switch between different delays within one preset. Now i have to create separate presets for different delays.

Jake

But you can set up multiple expression pedals and manipulate several parameters in real time. I'm changing one parameter here and it works pretty well. I just set the min and max according to how much adjustment I want, and then all I have to do is rock the pedal all the way forward or all the way back. Of course if you want to change several parameters simultaneously, depending on how you do it, it is tricky getting it dialed in. If I'm not mistaken, you can assign several parameters to the same expression pedal, and set their min and max independent of each other. That way you could literally transform a delay in real time with one expression pedal. And come to think of it, when you choose your preset, you can save with your delay at one setting that isn't the same as the heel down OR toe down position of your expression pedal, so in reality you could get three different delays, but the middle one would be halfway between the other two...

[sixstringmonk]

I didn't get around to doing any troubleshooting this weekend. I will try benttop's suggested soon. Here's the current setup in the meantime:

Monster power 1000 filter with Carvin Legacy plugged into the high output filter, and the g-sys plugged into the digital filter.

Guitar -> G-sys in -> G-sys insert out -> amp in -> amp fx send-> G-Sys insert return -> G-Sys left out -> amp return. The G-Sys brain is not rack mounted.

Typically I run a TS9 in loop one, a Boss OD-3 in 2, and a strobo stomp takes the out of loop 4 but does not return. I've tried unplugging all of the pedals.

I have two complete sets of cables - one long and one short. The short set consists of a 12 ft Monster rock for the guitar in and the final left send, with two 6 foot or so high quality balanced cables for the insert send return. My long set is all 20 ft monster rock cables. I don't notice much of a difference in hum when using the long set vs the short set.

I own two Carvin Legacy amps and they both have hum with the g-sys, however they do not when say only sticking a boss delay in the fx loop or patching the fx loop send and return directly together with a patch cable. The hum exists without running any fx or compression on the g-sys The hum does not seem to be affected by plugging in at different locations as I always have it when I'm at home, at the rehearsal space, or when gigging around town. I get the hum with no fx or compression on.

[+BroNNoS+]

I own two Carvin Legacy amps and they both have hum with the g-sys, however they do not when say only sticking a boss delay in the fx loop or patching the fx loop send and return directly together with a patch cable. The hum exists without running any fx or compression on the g-sys The hum does not seem to be affected by plugging in at different locations as I always have it when I'm at home, at the rehearsal space, or when gigging around town. I get the hum with no fx or compression on.

It sounds like you're having a ground loop here. I have the same when plugging my preamps into the return of my combo. But no problems with my 19 inch poweramp..

[keychange]

Hi guys,
I am ready to break my G-sytem over the closest piece of furniture at the moment so I am hoping someone can save me the replacement cost lol. For 3 days I have been trying to get my patchs working correctly and I have one stupid problem involving the wah that I can't figure out. I have a standard patch that has a wah set to automatically come on when the expression pedal is touched using the .3 s setting. When I switch to this patch from another patch with a wah on it everything is fine. My problem is that when I switch from a patch that is not using a wah, the wah is automatically triggered on? This is annoying me to tears and violence haha. I have tried everything I can think of including changing the global and preset settings with no luck. I am getting pretty good at tap dancing but there must be a way to get this working right? Does anyone know what is triggering the wah to come on without the expression pedal being moved during the patch change? As soon as I tap it it shuts off after the .3 second pause. I am using a Roland EV-5 if that helps.

Thanks,
Dave m.
:jo

[DrRedD]

Hi,

I noticed your wah issue the other day actually.

So for me when switching for example to a patch with the trigger wah activated the first 'hit' on the guitar (or for the first 3 seconds) will be wah'ed - not what i want - i want to go to the non wah'd sound and then for the wah to come on when i touch the pedal.

anyone else noticed this??

PS - TORE, where are you guys with this software/firmware update - any news on a release date? - we're almost at the end of March, I thought we were hoping for February. Any chance you could wet our appetites with a list of new features - Rotary effect i hope!

Cheers

DrRedD

[Tore TC]

We're aware of of the wah bug. It will be fixed in the upcoming release.

I'm very sorry about the delay of both the software release and the editor. We've been running into some unforeseen problems, but are now really close to releasing it.

[DrRedD]

Thanks TORE - look forward to the release :)

[NunoVanbamsteen]

Hi all, I've been lurking and reading this forum for a little while.
This thread helped me make a choice on getting the G-system.
Sadly, it isn't working the way I'd hoped.
I'm running it with my Triaxis/ Mesa 20/20 power amp rig.
I'm having issues with the overall sound quality and the digital artifact (noise floor) The other issue is the lack of predictability when utilized in the fx loop of the triaxis. The signal path is as follows:
Guitar->G-system insert send to Triaxis input, Triaxis effects send-> insert return G system out -> Triaxis effects return, Triaxis outputs to 20:20-> to speaker cab

In loop 1 is my MXR Digital Time Delay.

In a clean setting on the Triaxis, there is a weird crackling break up sound as if the gate is set too high, so I adjusted it to its lowest point where it should not engage, yet the noise is still there. Dirty there is a buzzing sound that isn't there when I run triaxis to power amp only.

That is only the 1st few issues.
Anyone have this situation and resolve it?
I recognize there is a steep learning curve on this system, it is extremely verbose in its ability to be adjusted. That is both good and bad.

I've altered the routing types to serial, parallel, and semi, and the oddity still exists.

I'm perplexed.

BTW, I also started out using this on my Mesa Combo (Studio 22+) and had the same issues.

[benttop]

Hi all, I've been lurking and reading this forum for a little while.
This thread helped me make a choice on getting the G-system.
Sadly, it isn't working the way I'd hoped.
I'm running it with my Triaxis/ Mesa 20/20 power amp rig.
I'm having issues with the overall sound quality and the digital artifact (noise floor) The other issue is the lack of predictability when utilized in the fx loop of the triaxis. The signal path is as follows:
Guitar->G-system insert send to Triaxis input, Triaxis effects send-> insert return G system out -> Triaxis effects return, Triaxis outputs to 20:20-> to speaker cab

In loop 1 is my MXR Digital Time Delay.

In a clean setting on the Triaxis, there is a weird crackling break up sound as if the gate is set too high, so I adjusted it to its lowest point where it should not engage, yet the noise is still there. Dirty there is a buzzing sound that isn't there when I run triaxis to power amp only.

That is only the 1st few issues.
Anyone have this situation and resolve it?
I recognize there is a steep learning curve on this system, it is extremely verbose in its ability to be adjusted. That is both good and bad.

I've altered the routing types to serial, parallel, and semi, and the oddity still exists.

I'm perplexed.

BTW, I also started out using this on my Mesa Combo (Studio 22+) and had the same issues.

Try this: guitar > GS input > GS Insert Out > Triaxis In > Triaxis Out > GS Insert In > GS-Out > Power Amp. I think your noise issues might be better this way.

[NunoVanbamsteen]

The one issue I could see this having, is the overall volume levels though, as the mesa Triaxis has its master outs on the front panel, and I normally use them throughout practice.

I'll give it a shot though,
Thanks!

[sixstringmonk]

NunoVanBamsteen,

I noticed that you said you are running the mxr delay in a g-system loop. If you haven't noticed already, all of those loops run before your insert, so you are putting delay before distortion. Some people do this on purpose, but if you aren't you might find that it sounds very odd.

[NunoVanbamsteen]

Thanks for that, I also noticed the levels were too low to use in that loop. I'd turn on loop 1 and the signal dropped. (even after adjusting loop one's levels)

[Jarrett]

I just stumbled onto this thread. I read about 10-15 pages to try and get the gist of some of it. I'm currently using a Boss ME-50 into the front end of my amp. I'm moving to a channel switcher with effects loops and was looking for a step up from the Boss.

The things I am hoping to accomplish initially is to have:

Tuner on the floor
Amp channel switching sans a separate pedal
Improved effects from the Boss ME-50
Access to various effects in stomp box format
Ability to create patches that can be accessed as well
Ability to have control over expression of certain effects such as wah

From what I have read it seems like the G-System can do most of these functions, but can it do all?

Also, are you finding that with a traditional amp head that the unit sounds better straight in or in the effects loop or a combination?

Thanks in advance..

[benttop]

I just stumbled onto this thread. I read about 10-15 pages to try and get the gist of some of it. I'm currently using a Boss ME-50 into the front end of my amp. I'm moving to a channel switcher with effects loops and was looking for a step up from the Boss.

The things I am hoping to accomplish initially is to have:

Tuner on the floor
Amp channel switching sans a separate pedal
Improved effects from the Boss ME-50
Access to various effects in stomp box format
Ability to create patches that can be accessed as well
Ability to have control over expression of certain effects such as wah

From what I have read it seems like the G-System can do most of these functions, but can it do all?

Also, are you finding that with a traditional amp head that the unit sounds better straight in or in the effects loop or a combination?

Thanks in advance..
I think it can do all of that with some creative setup/programming. I can't speak for anyone else here, but I have my GFX01 in the rack and all my pedals there, with the GFX in the amp's loop, and I'm very pleased with that. You get four loops, so depending on how many pedals you're talking about you could find yourself having to combine some. I only use three pedals in the loops, so I'm fine with the setup as it is. You get four expression pedal inputs, so I don't see how you could do much better than that! And there are two sets of two relay contacts for switching things. In my setup, I have a H&K Rotosphere in my amp's loop (as a loop buffer) and I'm using the boost button to switch the relays to turn on the Rotosphere and to toggle the speed up and down. So they are pretty flexible.

Since there are dedicated buttons for three of the loops, you can turn on any of the stomp boxes in those loops in any preset - very cool and very useful. In addition, you can tap your tempo in or use an expression pedal to set delay times.

The one thing I hate about this pedal is that I can't imagine gigging without it. Sometimes I'd just like to haul the amp out, but this system is so useful I'm having a hard time NOT bringing it. :)

[orangenoise]

Hey, I've been using my G-System lately with a Line 6 Echo-Pro for some more distinct delay based sounds. I have it connected via MIDI and have the Echo-Pro change it's programs when I change patches on the G-Sys. This all works fine and dandy.

However, I also want to control the Echo-Pro's tempo via the G-Sys tap tempo. With the latest software release (2.01), the G-System is able to send out MIDI CC with the tap tempo function. Does not work though with my setup. The MIDI CC does go out; but my Echo-Pro's tempo does not change. I have the tap tempo CC set to 64 (Echo-Pro receives tempo on this CC).

Is there anyone else out there using a similar setup that can offer me some advice. I've tried just about everything I can think of.

rob

[Jarrett]

Do most of you run this straight in or in the loop of the amp?

[keychange]

I use the loop on the amp

[NunoVanbamsteen]

It's starting to look like a keeper.
I still have a week or so to make up my mind before the 30 day return policy lapses.
I've sorted most of my routing issues and navigation familiarity.
Now I just need to tweak levels and MIDI patch routing.
http://www.dnr-music.com/DSCN7338.JPG

[Blues123]

Hi, I'm new here and just picked up a G-system.
A quick question for all you experts. I see that the G system is able to emulate analogue/tape echoes. I know that you can asign a vol/exp pedal to control the delay time, but was wondering if manipulating the pedal gives the same affect as altering the speed knob on an old boss pedal, i.e. "funky spaceship wobbles" between pedal positions. Or, being digital, does it just alter to the "new" delay time. Hope that makes sense!!
Thanks

[NunoVanbamsteen]

I haven't tried it, but you can control almost any parameter from the expression pedals. The other thing is that you have a Whammy mode so you can accomplish the same thing.

[sixstringmonk]

Regarding my noise problem, again it definitely seems to be related to using the G-Sys with my amp. I get the increased noise floor even with all effects off. In addition, when using my old pedal rig in the loop instead, the noise floor/hum is not there. It definitely has that 60 cycle hum quality to it.

The humex unit I tried was the one that goes between the plug and the outlet. My buddy has a two line humex iso box that I should try on both the in and out of the insert.

One other thing I noticed - I am running balanced cables in the insert loop only. So, there is a balanced cable going to the amp input and coming out of the fx send. I just took a look a the 2007 TCE Guitar brochure and it also lists the G-Sys output as balanced. Maybe I need to run a third TRS cable back to the loop return?

[NunoVanbamsteen]

I'm not running balanced cables, but my noise problem seemed to go away when I re cabled my whole rig, I made a bunch of 18" george L's with Switchcraft & or Neutrik plugs, I also only tied in the G system to my triaxis @ 1st, just to see what config worked best. The gate was another item that I adjusted as well, that had a huge impact on the overall noise level.
I still have a week + to send mine back if I decide it's not what I want, I just don't know what else I'd use in its place.

I think the crux of the matter is the time you need to spend setting the unit up. You should plan on spending hours and hours with it getting to know the interface and menu layouts. I used to have much more time to do that, but any more, quality time with my rig is fleeting.

Let us know if you sort it out.

Nuno

[NunoVanbamsteen]

I had 30 days to return mine, it went back today.
I'm going to try out a G-Force instead.
I think I'd be better off with a unit JUST in the fx loop and leave alone my preamp. YOu shouldn't have to futz soo much with any piece of gear.

[gbtommasi]

Hi guys,

have you noticed the latest TC guitar brochure? for the first time there is a picture of the software editor for the Gsys, which means that it's really close to be released (i hope :o).
What it is most important, though, is that they have designed an expression and a volume pedal spcifically for the g-system. These are great news, the expression pedal will hopefully solve any problems i curently have with my EB used in a not proper way.

@Tore, a question: will we ever see the modulated delay and the Audio Tapping technology from the Nova Delay on the G-System?? it would be great!

[mrkz1974]

Hey all!!

I'm expecting the G-System to arrive today or tomorrow and obviously I've been reading up this forum and others to shorten the learning curve and to maximize my G-System experience.

I'l be using it with a GABIREL SOUND VOXTER 18 2x12 amp, and will use 4 or 5 loops with a BARBER TONE PRESS, BARBER DIRECT DRIVE, KEELEY MOD TS9 DELUXE, FULLTONE FULL-DRIVE 2 MOSFET, and HERMIDA'S MOSFERATU.

For Volume I have an EB 6166, but I will need a Y CABLE to integrate it with the G-System. I'm still undecided in regards to the expression pedal, especially since the announcement of the V1 and X1 pedals (shipping summer 07).

I'm currently planning a 30x18 pedalboard with a friend, especially designed for the G-System; screwed through the threads and no velcro!

Anyways, I'll let you guys know how my experience goes like and hopefully provide pictures.

[benttop]

I think I'm going to move my processor back to the floor. I love the way it sounds in the loop of my amp, but I want to use different amps in different scenarios, and not all of them have loops. And some the loops perform differently. So I think I'm going to move everything back to the floor and live with the tradeoff. Anyone else gone to the rack, then back to the floor? How's it working compared to the rack?

[supersecretjim]

I swap all the time. Currently, Im using the G-system as a unit. I am using two insert loops - one going to a Peavey XXX and the other going to a Genz Benz Black Pearl.

I made a couple of wire bundles to each amp from the G-System & wire tied & labeled so as to simplify hook up if I choose to move stuff around or move the rig to a friends house.

TC Tore---

Where is the latest update? Not so patiently waiting...

I guess people are pretty excited about the software editor. Ive never used one, so Ive no idea what to expect. Hopefully it will be pretty cool. What is the advantage of the software editor over editing directly from the G-System?

[DrRedD]

Tore? how we doing with the software editor and the firmware update - we're almost into May now..........

Thanks

DrRedD

[RichM]

Hi, Just joined TGP and also just found this thread... Am enjoying my new G-System, but still really in set-up mode...

Couple of (long) questions for you non-virgins of the GS. Am using the config in the manual where you use the GS Insert loop with the Amps FX loop. Sounds good so far when using the clean channel. I have been to the main utility menu and switched the insert loop on.

- Has anybody got the GS relay outs to work with a Mesa Boogie Lonestar Special to switch channel and solo on the amp? Have checked the manual and it looks like double-dutch to me. I can find the right edit page but what to program ? all those 0's and C's! I can hear the relays changing when I change the settings but the drive channel sounds very strange....and cant get the solo function to kick-in. As suggested by the dealer I've routed the GS Relay outs using two separate mono cables to the individual switch outs on the back of the amp (rather than using the normal stereo footswitch out on the front of the amp.

- Am using the Ernie Ball Junior Vol pedal as an expression pedal with the GS - so far to control the wah. Aside from the comparative stiffness of the movement (compared to a CryBaby), has anyone managed to figure out how to even-out the pedal travel? Right now most of the filter change occurs in the last 1/4 of the pedal sweep when pressing down. (Am using a normal mono jack from the EB pedal out to the GS Expression socket - no Y cable). Manual says you should get a system prompt for the mid point when calibrating. My GS only gives min & max prompts - no mid.

- has anybody noticed an appreciable difference in hum/noise when using the GS's 9V dc outs for drive pedals in the loops compared to using an external power supply? Before I got the GS I was using a Voodoo Labs PS. I tried hooking my 2 drive pedals (a TS9 and an Expandora) to this whilst using the GS loops and I'm sure it was quieter.

Thanks!
http://www.thegearpage.net/board/images/icons/icon6.gifhttp://www.thegearpage.net/board/images/icons/icon7.gif
RM

[Tore TC]

Hi guys,

Sorry for not answering any questions lately, but as you can tell if you're visiting the TC web site I've been quite busy lately.

The editor and software update is right around the corner. To be honest the plan was to release it quite a while ago (I wouldn't have mentioned it here otherwise) but we still ironing out some minor glitches before the release and these definitely took my by surprise and messed up the deadlines quite a bit. But... it won't be long now.

The editor is great for a number of reasons:
1. It will allow you to tweak all the parameters of G-System from one PC or Mac window... that means no sacrolling through pages, parameters, etc.
2. It will allow you to (re)store, move, delete and add presets, banks and an entire system to G-System directly from your computer.
3. With the option of adding and storing single preset you'll be able to share presets with other G-System users. We'll also be able to add additional factory or celeb presets to the website for you guys to download with having to erase your entire system.

[supersecretjim]

Sounds pretty cool.

It brings up an obvious question.

With the ability to share patches, etc... Is there any plans in the works for a TC Electronic user forum? Its pretty bad when the best place to get info & talk with other users is an independent, non-official, non-sponsored forum.

This forum seems to be the best place to get G-system info that Ive found on the web. Thats pretty bad. This is just a huge thread!!! TC needs its own dedicated forum.

Am I alone in my thinking?

Just my thoughts...

[paults]

Tore-

No need to apologize. Most companies don't permit advance word of software development at all. We appreciate your updates, and look forward to the Editor. Thanks for identifying the bugs in Beta Testing.

My old Ground Control pedal had a feature that I miss on the G-System. When changing Banks, it showed a preview of the bank contents by automatically scrolling through the titles of the presets in the bank. That makes it much easier to find a preset on the fly.

Hi guys,

Sorry for not answering any questions lately, but as you can tell if you're visiting the TC web site I've been quite busy lately.

[JLantern]

My old Ground Control pedal had a feature that I miss on the G-System. When changing Banks, it showed a preview of the bank contents by automatically scrolling through the titles of the presets in the bank. That makes it much easier to find a preset on the fly.

Humm, just how many sounds are you using, exactly? I use around 15 ... 20 on regular basis, and the way I remember each preset is that all of the presets are arranged in a certain way:

(- bank 00 is a cover-gig setup, 5 different sounds)
...from now on it's our metal band sound setup...
- bank 01: clean sounds, semi distorted sounds
- bank 02: special fx (...such as tremolos, extreme phaser)
- bank 03: unison sounds, sounds w/harmonics
- bank 04: lead sounds

Each bank's fifth preset is my rhythm guitar sound preset. So no matter which sound I'm using, I'm always able to get back to that one - cause that's what usually happens after a solo, unison or a clean passage. This has worked out great for me, I highly recommend!

[benttop]

One of the coolest pedal board features I ever encountered was the preset toggle that DigiTech had in some of their units. Maybe they still have it on some, I don't know. Anyway, if you were on preset 2 and stepped on preset 6, stepping on preset 6 a second time would send you back to preset 2. If preset 2 and 6 are in different banks, you can immediately see the value. You're getting ready to take your big solo, so ahead of time you scroll to the next bank, step on 6 just at the right moment, and when you're done, you just hit 6 again and you're back to the previous bank and preset. Very cool feature.

[Hugh DaMann]

I've been following this thread for the last 2 weeks as I find the G-System rather compelling. With all respect to TC, who make great sounding gear (and speaking as someone who works for a major digital audio company and understands the difficulty in producing a complicated, feature-laden product), is there anyone here who is perfetly happy with their G-System? Most of the discussion on this thread is of frustration or disappointment with the unit. I'm still thinking of buying one, but would like to hear from some happy customers first. I'm betting there are quite a few...

[benttop]

I've been following this thread for the last 2 weeks as I find the G-System rather compelling. With all respect to TC, who make great sounding gear (and speaking as someone who works for a major digital audio company and understands the difficulty in producing a complicated, feature-laden product), is there anyone here who is perfetly happy with their G-System? Most of the discussion on this thread is of frustration or disappointment with the unit. I'm still thinking of buying one, but would like to hear from some happy customers first. I'm betting there are quite a few...

So far I'm pretty pleased with mine. I followed this thread for almost two years before I dove in though - it's pretty clear it was released way before they should have. But try to find a competing unit out there - there just isn't anything with this feature set. I'm hoping for a few enhancements with the next firmware, but truthfully I'm getting great value from it as is. If the editor is as good as it can be, that will add a lot of value, as the manual no longer matches the menus on the current firmware, which makes pre-planning a set of changes a bit of a challenge. A decent editor will fix that up in a jiffy.

[gbtommasi]

I've been following this thread for the last 2 weeks as I find the G-System rather compelling. With all respect to TC, who make great sounding gear (and speaking as someone who works for a major digital audio company and understands the difficulty in producing a complicated, feature-laden product), is there anyone here who is perfetly happy with their G-System? Most of the discussion on this thread is of frustration or disappointment with the unit. I'm still thinking of buying one, but would like to hear from some happy customers first. I'm betting there are quite a few...

Everything can be done better. Even the most expensive piece of gear will give you some reason to complaint. But the point is: there is nothing like the g-sys out there. Effects quality is astonishing, routing possibilities cover a really wide range of needs for lots of players. SO, yes, i am completely happy. If TC is going to release the editor and make some changes to the firmware this thing becomes very close to perfection, at least according to my needs :cool:

[Mike33]

I've been following this thread for the last 2 weeks as I find the G-System rather compelling. With all respect to TC, who make great sounding gear (and speaking as someone who works for a major digital audio company and understands the difficulty in producing a complicated, feature-laden product), is there anyone here who is perfetly happy with their G-System? Most of the discussion on this thread is of frustration or disappointment with the unit. I'm still thinking of buying one, but would like to hear from some happy customers first. I'm betting there are quite a few...

Like benttop and gbtommasi already said everything can be done better but it depends for what you use use the g-system. I use it since it already is on the market and I'm very satisfied with it for how I use it.
And the good thing about it is, that it's getting better and better from release to release...
Give it a shot!! :dude

[DrRedD]

Love mine - obviously a couple of issues...............

Human Nature will only go off about the bad - never the good - therefore I'd like to claim that apart from a few (very few) issues discussed in this thread the G-System is IMO the best multi effects processor available, and probably will be for some time................

DrRedD

[+BroNNoS+]

I must agree with the above. Sure this machine is not perfect, but it is the closest to perfect available today! Everyone who does not agree, please tell me which product does the same and better for the cost of a G-system....I would buy it without hesitation...but I probably will use the G-System for at least a couple of years..

[jamoed]

What kind of USB cable is used to connect to my PC from the G-System? When i bought my G-System last summer I never received the cable. I never updated the software either but with all the new software updates i want to be able to do so.

Thanks!
J

[Hugh DaMann]

Thanks for the feedback guys. I'm glad to hear that people are genuinely pleased with the G-System as it is a clever, well-conceived product. And as someone who works for a manufacturer, I'm glad to hear that people are patient and willing to put up with some glitches in order to receive a unique proudct.

I need to get my hands on one before I pull the trigger, though.

[DrRedD]

What kind of USB cable is used to connect to my PC from the G-System? When i bought my G-System last summer I never received the cable. I never updated the software either but with all the new software updates i want to be able to do so.

Thanks!
J

USB 2 compatible lead - one end a normal connection (PC) the other end is the squarish connection (see back of G-System)

But make sure it's all USB2

Cheers

DrRedD

[ivan275]

The G-System is great. But, I've got to let it go w/ the rest of my gear (see http://thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?t=237628).

I use it to control MIDI changes on my JMP-1 and provide effects for the JMP-1/BiValve combination - a great DYI combo if I do say so myself.

If you're interested, I'm selling the G-System for $950 (see above thread for details).

Thanks for letting me interrupt...

[Stevo57]

I sure am tired of waiting on the editor. It hurts my back bending over and trying to edit and read the manual that no longer matches due to updates.
Why not put out a beta version at least?

[Tore TC]

Hi Stevo57,
I totally understand you're getting impatient and I do apologize for keeping you in suspense for so long. We will put out a public beta as soon as we have something that's close to finished. I know I've said it before, but it shouldn't be long now.

[RichM]

- Has anybody got the GS relay outs to work with a Mesa Boogie Lonestar Special to switch channel and solo on the amp? Have checked the manual and it looks like double-dutch to me. I can find the right edit page but what to program ? all those 0's and C's! I can hear the relays changing when I change the settings but the drive channel sounds very strange....and cant get the solo function to kick-in. As suggested by the dealer I've routed the GS Relay outs using two separate mono cables to the individual switch outs on the back of the amp (rather than using the normal stereo footswitch out on the front of the amp.

- Am using the Ernie Ball Junior Vol pedal as an expression pedal with the GS - so far to control the wah. Aside from the comparative stiffness of the movement (compared to a CryBaby), has anyone managed to figure out how to even-out the pedal travel? Right now most of the filter change occurs in the last 1/4 of the pedal sweep when pressing down. (Am using a normal mono jack from the EB pedal out to the GS Expression socket - no Y cable). Manual says you should get a system prompt for the mid point when calibrating. My GS only gives min & max prompts - no mid.


Thanks!
http://www.thegearpage.net/board/images/icons/icon6.gifhttp://www.thegearpage.net/board/images/icons/icon7.gif
RM[/quote]

Hi, With TC Support's help and some fiddling around I've managed to get the Lonestar Special's channel switching to work from the GS, and also to toggle between channels using an assigned switch on the GS. Anybody using the same amp who's interested in the settings just let me know..

Still havn't managed to get the Ernie Ball to work more linearly as an expression pedal. Anybody out there who can help?
http://www.thegearpage.net/board/images/icons/icon10.gif
Thanks

RM

[paults]

Humm, just how many sounds are you using, exactly? I use around 15 ... 20 on regular basis, and the way I remember each preset is that all of the presets are arranged in a certain way:

(- bank 00 is a cover-gig setup, 5 different sounds)
...from now on it's our metal band sound setup...
- bank 01: clean sounds, semi distorted sounds
- bank 02: special fx (...such as tremolos, extreme phaser)
- bank 03: unison sounds, sounds w/harmonics
- bank 04: lead sounds

Each bank's fifth preset is my rhythm guitar sound preset. So no matter which sound I'm using, I'm always able to get back to that one - cause that's what usually happens after a solo, unison or a clean passage. This has worked out great for me, I highly recommend!

I use around 35 on a regular basis, with as may as four in a single song. I have the bottom five buttons programmed for the five I use the most, and each one of those is in a different bank, so selecting one of the main five also gives me four additional sounds on the middle row of buttons.

[gordiegords]

I'm having probelm with the g,or maybe it is my routing, please forgive me if i come accross as naive here, i'm not great with effects but i'll try and explain as best i can, I love the g, for what it does for me,especially the amp switching but its here i have a problem, i gat a hand made cable especially for me to be able to use the switching for my amp, which is a fender pro reverb, the switching itself works very well but if i'm not playing the noise from my hand is awfull, very hissy, i know when i swtich channels from clean to gain there will be hiss but not this much surely, i think it maybe something to do with my send and return levels at the back of the fender, i use the four cable method

Guitar -> G-System In
G-System Insert Send -> Fender Pro Reverb In
Fender Pro Reverb Send -> G-System Insert Return
G-System Out -> Fender Pro Reverb Return


if i turn down the send return volumes then the hiss disappears but obviously then i will have no sound from my effects, is this why musicians use 2 amps? one for clean one for gain? or maybe i shouldnt use the gain on my amp although if i hook up my guitar straight to my amp and switch channels there isnt as much hiss so i dont think it is the amp.


Please please any advice would be great.

Thanks


Gordie

[RichM]

I'm having probelm with the g,or maybe it is my routing, please forgive me if i come accross as naive here, i'm not great with effects but i'll try and explain as best i can, I love the g, for what it does for me,especially the amp switching but its here i have a problem, i gat a hand made cable especially for me to be able to use the switching for my amp, which is a fender pro reverb, the switching itself works very well but if i'm not playing the noise from my hand is awfull, very hissy, i know when i swtich channels from clean to gain there will be hiss but not this much surely, i think it maybe something to do with my send and return levels at the back of the fender, i use the four cable method

Guitar -> G-System In
G-System Insert Send -> Fender Pro Reverb In
Fender Pro Reverb Send -> G-System Insert Return
G-System Out -> Fender Pro Reverb Return


if i turn down the send return volumes then the hiss disappears but obviously then i will have no sound from my effects, is this why musicians use 2 amps? one for clean one for gain? or maybe i shouldnt use the gain on my amp although if i hook up my guitar straight to my amp and switch channels there isnt as much hiss so i dont think it is the amp.


Please please any advice would be great.

Thanks


Gordie



Hi Gordie,

I had something similar with my Mesa amp using the same routing. Have you tried using 2 balanced cables (of the 4) as suggested in the manual? I did and it works pretty well. Used 2 stereo jack-to-jack planet waves cables and job-done! I dont understand the technical part of it but apparently (according to the manual) you get much less noise by doing this...

This in combination with tweaking down the FX loop volume should give you what you need...

Hope this helps

[gordiegords]

All my leads are balanced, i use 2 balanced planet waves cables for the loop,1 planet waves to the amp and my guitar lead to the g is van damme. it is kinda anooying me, i dont want have to change my amp, there must be an easier way. :worried

[RichM]

Gordie

Have you asked TC Support to help?

[benttop]

I'm having probelm with the g,or maybe it is my routing, please forgive me if i come accross as naive here, i'm not great with effects but i'll try and explain as best i can, I love the g, for what it does for me,especially the amp switching but its here i have a problem, i gat a hand made cable especially for me to be able to use the switching for my amp, which is a fender pro reverb, the switching itself works very well but if i'm not playing the noise from my hand is awfull, very hissy, i know when i swtich channels from clean to gain there will be hiss but not this much surely, i think it maybe something to do with my send and return levels at the back of the fender, i use the four cable method

Guitar -> G-System In
G-System Insert Send -> Fender Pro Reverb In
Fender Pro Reverb Send -> G-System Insert Return
G-System Out -> Fender Pro Reverb Return


if i turn down the send return volumes then the hiss disappears but obviously then i will have no sound from my effects, is this why musicians use 2 amps? one for clean one for gain? or maybe i shouldnt use the gain on my amp although if i hook up my guitar straight to my amp and switch channels there isnt as much hiss so i dont think it is the amp.


Please please any advice would be great.

Thanks


Gordie

Well you don't quite give enough detail - when you hear the hiss, what's "on" on the G-System? Are any of the loops active? Is the Compressor on? How about the noise gate? That noise is coming from one or more of those things - if they are all off (except the noise gate) it should be pin-drop quiet.

[supersecretjim]

I've been following this thread for the last 2 weeks as I find the G-System rather compelling. With all respect to TC, who make great sounding gear (and speaking as someone who works for a major digital audio company and understands the difficulty in producing a complicated, feature-laden product), is there anyone here who is perfetly happy with their G-System? Most of the discussion on this thread is of frustration or disappointment with the unit. I'm still thinking of buying one, but would like to hear from some happy customers first. I'm betting there are quite a few...


I just wanted to chime in on this one...

Im thrilled to death with my G-System.

It is completely amazing. Heres what Im doing with it in my set up:

I run a Peavey XXX 60 watt combo & a Genz Benz Black pearl 30 in a stereo setup. The GS will switch my Peaveys 3 channels & switch my Black Pearls boost on or off (the black pearl is a single channel amp with footswitchable boost). Besides switching channels it also turns each amp on or off in the circuit, or runs both simultaneously in full stereo!

This, to me, is the GS's biggest feature - the channel switching relays. I just love em.

Next is the sound quality. Clear. Clean. Pristine. I cant tell Im using it when there are no effects in the chain. The A/D D/A convertors are obviously high quality. Sure, Id prefer an analog signal path, but you really cant tell its been converted.

The effects are all top notch. I really love the delays & modulation effects. The wahs sound especially good.

That brings me to the pedals... Ive got two EB VPjr pedals controlling volume & expression. I was using a split stereo cable to each, but just changed this weekend to a mono cable from GS to the pedal out & it works great! Its got great feel & Im not experiencing any of the issues of having all my wah at the end of the pedal travel. It seems very linear.

Another feature I just started using is having two presets within each preset. Or a second channel within each preset. Basically, when you use the relay function you have relay A & B. Relay A is your main sound for the preset. Ive programmed my loop1 button to serve as a relay select. You just hit the loop1 button and change from a XXX heavy crunch to either the clean, ultra channel or even the Black Pearl within the same preset with all the same effects. Just tap the loop1 again & you are back to your original preset. COOL! Or if you change presets & go back to the relay modified preset it is back in its original form.
As long as you want the same effects but just a different preamp sound, this feature rocks! Great for going to a higher gain solo & back to rhythm sound.

The 2.01 update really did fine tune the GS & I really couldnt be happier.

Is it perfect? No.

Is it the only all inclusive solution that has onboard studio quality effects, controls & switches multiple outboard preamp channels, runs programmable vol & expression pedals, Has its own classy high quality footswitching system, lets you patch in & control outboard mono effects, & looks totally sexy doing it?

You bet.

The fact that I got mine for $1250.00 out the door just over a year ago is icing on the cake. I understand that people have had some problems that Ive been lucky enough to avoid. I made a concious decision to be a relatively early adopter over a year ago. I actually based my decision on filtering posts Id read on this particular thread. Filtering what I thought was BS from the truth. I have not regretted my decision.

In my opinion, TC released the GS a bit too early. Probably by a year or so. Software version 1.5 just came out the day I got my GS. That was the software version that made the unit useable in my mind. Too many glitches before that release.

I think the user base is still relatively small, but once people catch on & see the G-System is for real, expect the price to jump accordingly.

Oh, I bought mine sight & sound unseen. I just decided to go for it & put my faith in TC. Id never bought from them in the past & only knew about the reputation of the company.

Get in on it now, while you can still call yourself an early adopter.

[gordiegords]

Hi again, sometimes there is a boost on, which of course amplifies the hiss even more, i dont use the loops, or the compressor, or the noise gate, the gain on my amp never changes so if i'm sitting idle and i switch channels then comes the hiss, I have just checked out the tc website and there are some handy tips on there i will have to try, mainly messing around with inputs/outputs and the send return levels.

[jamoed]

I have had the G-System since last summer and love it to death. I don't even use the expression pedals (which I should for delays and tremolo speeds) nor did I do a software update because I am paranoid it will freeze the unit and I got gigs all the time!!!

How do you set up the expression pedal to control the delay and speed of tremolo?

[ryanformato]

I just bought mine and am receiving it very soon. Can't wait.

[Laird_Williams]

I'll add to the G-System love here.

I have always thought that TC's chorus and delays were some of the most transparent in the business. I have been an enthusiastic user of their Stereo Chorus/Flanger for years - as have vocalists and keyboard players and others. I still use one on my acoustic pedalboard and getting me to change would involve a cadavre and a crowbar. The modulation, pitch, delay, and reverb FX in the G-System are consistent with the quality I would expect from TC in this regard.

The rig controllability factor is huge for me. I use a 3-channel VHT Valvulator GP3 in the studio, along with a Barber Tone Press. The VHT has an excellent boost function - so I reprogrammed the boost button on the G to switch the amp's boost rather than the G's and it is great. I also reprogrammed a couple of the switches on the G to toggle the BRITE and FAT functions on the amp. I also use the MIDI on the G to switch amp channels on each patch. (I have a buddy who does the same using the relay switching control rather than MIDI.) I put the Barber in the Loop 1, the VHT in the insert loop, and have never looked back.

For live applications, I use a Hughes and Kettner Switchblade 100 combo with 2 power tubes pulled to tighten up my bass and drop the volume a bit. For my more serious gigs, I almost totally ignore the on-board FX on the Hughes and run the G. I use a different set of patches and use the MIDI control functions of the G to switch channels on the Hughes as-needed. I DO have to "uncustomize" the boost button on the G, as there is no boost function on the Hughes, and I have to change the gain and volume settings for that setup. This generally takes me about 10 minutes since I already know the settings I need (see below). When the computer editor comes out and I can backup and restore the G's gain setup from my studio PC, that will drop to about 60 seconds. (I really really really don't want to have to buy two of these)

I will say that tuning the volumes, headroom, and gain levels in the G-System setup is a trying, detail-oriented task. But you should only have to do it once or - of you have separate live and studio rigs like me - twice. If you do not put the effort into this, you WILL NOT be happy with the unit...period. Put the G on a stool or piano bench so you don't blow out your back and muscle through it in detail. Just be sure to write down your settings or save the somehow once you are happy with them!

-Laird

[supersecretjim]

I stopped using my G-system around January or so. Right after I did the 2.01 download. In fact, I loaded it into the GS & didnt even try it out after the update. I just decided to go totally dry for a while.

So now that Im using it again, Ive noticed something wierd...

I could have sworn when I used the whammy effect with the pedal that it was just one tone & when I moved the pedal that tone would dive or rise depending on my setting. The effect was allways set to "on" & was acivated by pedal movement.
Now it seems like Ive got my basic guitar tone plus what seems to be a harmonized tone that is allways present & when I move the pedal only the 2nd tone moves & my main tone seems to stay the same pitch.
I dont think Ive made any changes, and Im sure that patch used to sound the same as my first two user presets: "crunchy wah low", "crunchy wah hi", & the whammy preset is "crunchy whammy". Each preset used the expression pedal to control either wah or the whammy with auto on & off set to the pedal.

Any ideas?

Thanks, guys.

[+BroNNoS+]

Sounds like your using the G-system in a parallel setup or your not using the Whammy effect in the patch anymore but the Intel. Pitch shifter.

[diezelboy]

Can you use the G System in the following setup?

Guitar > to G System with Compressor + Phaser (or wah) + loops liked in a SERIAL fashion > to amp INPUT
Then insert all G System time based or EQ effects in the amp PARALLEL loop with KILLYDRY.

In other words I want the effects that go before the preamp section of my amp to be SERIAL and the effects going in the PARALLEL loop of my amp to be KILLDRY = totally wet 100%?

So one effect block to have no killdry and another effect block to have killdry.

[GtrWiz]

Does anyone know when the V1 and X1 will be available?

[supersecretjim]

Will parallel do that? I actually just changed to that setting...

Maybe Ill switch back & see if it goes to normal.

And NO, pitch shifting is not on. Just the whammy effect.

Thanks!

[Laird_Williams]

Can you use the G System in the following setup?

Guitar > to G System with Compressor + Phaser (or wah) + loops liked in a SERIAL fashion > to amp INPUT
Then insert all G System time based or EQ effects in the amp PARALLEL loop with KILLYDRY.

In other words I want the effects that go before the preamp section of my amp to be SERIAL and the effects going in the PARALLEL loop of my amp to be KILLDRY = totally wet 100%?

So one effect block to have no killdry and another effect block to have killdry.

Wire and configure as follows:

GTR --> G-System in
G-System Insert Send --> Amp in
Amp Loop Send --> G-System Insert Return
G-System Out --> Amp Loop Return

Turn on the insert loop on the G and, if you are always using your amp - turn on the insert lock as well.

If your amp's loop can be switched to Serial, then do so.
Otherwise, (if it is parallel only) you should have a wet/dry mix knob on it - turn it to full wet.

KillDry is a feature of G-Major and not G-System. There is no killdry mode on the G-system. The G-System is already killdryed by default.

[diezelboy]

Thanks!
Are the G Force effects better than the G System's as they say?

[gbtommasi]

Looking back in this thread you will find a post of ToreTC, who says that the G-system's algorithms are just the same of the G-force, apart from wha and compressor, which have been re-written because in the G-system they are where they are supposed to be: before the drive block.

I tried to A/B the two units, and could not find any audible difference.
The major plus of the G-force is the routing matrix, but the sound quality of the G-sys is just the same.

[JLantern]

How do you set up the expression pedal to control the delay and speed of tremolo?

Geez... RTFM... :jo

I think it's easier to use the tap tempo feature? You get the right tempo in any song.

I forst tried controlling the tremolo speed with a pedal (and I only have two different tempos I need) but I found it easier to create two different & dedicated presets, one for each song. With fixed frequency, not tap tempo.

[paults]

Thanks!
Are the G Force effects better than the G System's as they say?

I used a G-Force for close to ten years- I sold it after I finished programming my G-System.

Some of the G-Force effects have more parameters, but I don't hear any compromise in audio quality in the G-System.

[diezelboy]

Hi guys,
The editor and software update is right around the corner. To be honest the plan was to release it quite a while ago (I wouldn't have mentioned it here otherwise) but we still ironing out some minor glitches before the release and these definitely took my by surprise and messed up the deadlines quite a bit. But... it won't be long now.



When can we expect to see a PC/MAC editor for the G System?

[diezelboy]

Wire and configure as follows:

GTR --> G-System in
G-System Insert Send --> Amp in
Amp Loop Send --> G-System Insert Return
G-System Out --> Amp Loop Return

Turn on the insert loop on the G and, if you are always using your amp - turn on the insert lock as well.

If your amp's loop can be switched to Serial, then do so.
Otherwise, (if it is parallel only) you should have a wet/dry mix knob on it - turn it to full wet.

KillDry is a feature of G-Major and not G-System. There is no killdry mode on the G-system. The G-System is already killdryed by default.


Well I did that (I am running a Dual Recto PARALLEL loop) and this doesn't cut it 100% WET on the amp.. The distortion channels sound out of phase, issue that can be fixed easily with KILLYDRY on the G Force or G Major.
I selected PARALLEL routing on the G System and nothing.... still sounds tubey... there has to a fix for this... no matter where I set the amp loop input and mix the tubey sound only goes away when the amp loop mix is 0.. but then it's all DRY.. so no use...

Now reading the forum, somebody suggested making the the post preamp effects mix = 100%. No matter what that is 0 or 100% the nasal sound is still there. I'm only using delay for now. Turning the delay on and off doesn't make any difference to the actual nasal sound.
If there's no KILLDRY workaround this unit is useless to people who like using parallel loops or who have amps that only have parallel loops on them

Thanks in advance

[u12drag]

I am seriously considering a G-System. My question, for those who have it, is this: being a digital unit, do you notice any difference in the way your pedals in loops or your amp reponds to picking dynamics and use of the volume knob? This may have been covered, and I missed It. Thanks a lot.

[Laird_Williams]

I selected PARALLEL routing on the G System and nothing.... still sounds tubey... there has to a fix for this... no matter where I set the amp loop input and mix the tubey sound only goes away when the amp loop mix is 0.. but then it's all DRY.. so no use...
Parallel on the G-System means ONLY that the delay and reverb run in parallel. The rest of the FX routing is single-chain serial.


Now reading the forum, somebody suggested making the the post preamp effects mix = 100%. No matter what that is 0 or 100% the nasal sound is still there. I'm only using delay for now. Turning the delay on and off doesn't make any difference to the actual nasal sound.
If there's no KILLDRY workaround this unit is useless to people who like using parallel loops or who have amps that only have parallel loops on them


You are probably right - with a caveat. The unit is useless to anyone using an amp with only a parallel loop that will not go fully-wet. Just because the knob is turned all the way does not mean there is no dry signal. A lot of amps aren't really 100% wet on their parallel loops when the knob is at 100% wet.

BTW - In the manual, TC recommends a serial loop. This bears your statement out.

You should also note, however, that you will get some phasing effects with almost any chorus/flanger/etc if it is in the effects loop of an amp and you count a lot on power tube distortion.

Having any modulation effect pre-gain stage when the gain stage is overdriven is a recipe for crummy sound.

[Laird_Williams]

Parallel on the G-System means ONLY that the delay and reverb run in parallel. The rest of the FX routing is single-chain serial.
Oopsie - I misspoke.

Serial mode on the G = all FX in sequence.
Semi-parallel on the G = DLY and RVB parallel to each other, all other FX in sequence.

Parallel on the G = MOD, PIT, DLY, and RVB Parallel to eacg other, all other FX in sequence.

Notice that none of these routing options has anything to do with a dry signal running parallel with the FX chain. There is not dry signal running in parallel with the FX chain.

-L

[benttop]

Well I finally understand those of you who have been complaining about noise. I needed to change my setup here, so pulled the GFX back out of the rack and mounted it in the board. This required some settings changes (like input, effects pedal placement, etc) so I did all that and then plugged in to the front of my Dr. Z SRZ-65. HOLY CRAP! The hum and noise was terrible. I didn't recall that from when I first got this thing, but I didn't have that amp then. However, I had the amp dimed. So I pulled it out of there and put it into my Dr. Z Stingray - very clean and low gain. Now it's crystal clear with no noise or hum. Hmmm.... Well this explains a few other's comments here. This thing is great through the Stingray, but unusable in any of my high gain amps. I have yet to play with any of my cabling - my gig bag has some very expensive boo-teek cables - we'll see if it's any better with those.

[diezelboy]

You are probably right - with a caveat. The unit is useless to anyone using an amp with only a parallel loop that will not go fully-wet. Just because the knob is turned all the way does not mean there is no dry signal. A lot of amps aren't really 100% wet on their parallel loops when the knob is at 100% wet.

BTW - In the manual, TC recommends a serial loop. This bears your statement out.

You should also note, however, that you will get some phasing effects with almost any chorus/flanger/etc if it is in the effects loop of an amp and you count a lot on power tube distortion.


Well as much as I'd like to keep this unit, it won't happen. Thanks God I still haven't sold my G Force! I'm using a Diezel in both serial and parallel and the Voodoo Modded Mesa. If the Mesa isn't the best parallel loop I know the Diezel is and the behaviour described before is happening on both amps.
Furthermore the G Force and the G Major run perfectly through the parallel loop with the KILLDRY on in both these amps.

This is major step back from TC I find...

TC "recommends" the serial loop for G Force and G Major so then why did they have the KILLDRY on those units and not on the G System? Maybe the killdry will be in a software upgrade.. until then bye bye G System.

I ain't putting the G System in front of my amp either just for the sake of avoiding this issue...

[jazzguitarplay]

just more digital junk. maybe except for the delays,

[gbtommasi]

I am seriously considering a G-System. My question, for those who have it, is this: being a digital unit, do you notice any difference in the way your pedals in loops or your amp reponds to picking dynamics and use of the volume knob? This may have been covered, and I missed It. Thanks a lot.

This was a major issue to me,since i use volume on the guitar a lot.
There are two matters:
First, the g-system actually sounds a little, little bit digital if you are used to an all-analog rig. This is quite normal, though, and it is not unpleasant at all IMO.
Second, Your guitar's volume will work fine in controlling distortion amount (i use to tweak it to control a keeley ds1 ultra), but only down to a certain amount. The matter is, you have to provide enough input level to allow convereters to work fine. Since the input stage of G-system runs 24 bits, this provides you with a lot of headroom to lower your volume.
I had no problems at all with picking dynamics, my amp follows me just like g-system wasn't there...

At least, it works fine for me. But, this must be clear, it is not exactly the same thing like having your guitar plugged straight into a pedal and/or amp.

hope this helps

[Stonefree]

Is it possible to get univibe sounds from the G-system?
Anyone with clips, both clean and distorted?

Maybe a mix of chorus, tremolo and panner...?


:JAM

[zzzsleepzzz]

HELLO TO EVERYONE OUT THERE IN G SYSTEM LAND!!! lol.

Ok this is my first post, I really need help answering a few questions about my G system.

I just bought one brand new, it's running 2.0

I want to use it in conjunction with my Diezel Herbert AND Marshall JVM.

If someone could offer me a few pointers on this it would GREATLY be appreciated. I've read the manual front to back and it doesn't offer a lot of help with my exact situation.

I just bought all of this gear together for a reason. MIDI. I'm not really that experienced with MIDI or all it can do but from what I understand these 3 items should all work well together. I figure these 3 SHOULD work well together at least.

I want to run BOTH heads at the same time, at all times (blending their sounds). I want the G System to be the universal switching system for both heads and the effects. I'm only using the G System for time based effects, in addition I wont be adding ANY kind of preamps/overdrive/boost pedals at all. I want the G System to go through both the loops on each head, which brings up my first big question...

Can the G System run through 2 effects loops on two different heads (of course running the same effects to both)??? How exactly is the best way to set this up?

Also, is it pretty easy to set up the midi on this unit to run both heads? Like as easy as picking the effect I want, choosing the channels on each head I want, then saving THAT as one patch which the g will later recall with one button? I'm a litle confused on this subject..

Thanks in advance for any help I recieve!!!
:confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:

[Laird_Williams]

I want to run BOTH heads at the same time, at all times (blending their sounds). I want the G System to be the universal switching system for both heads and the effects. I'm only using the G System for time based effects, in addition I wont be adding ANY kind of preamps/overdrive/boost pedals at all. I want the G System to go through both the loops on each head, which brings up my first big question...

Sounds like an interesting challenge. I doubt it would work very well.
I assume you want to blend the output of both amps.

Unfortunately, much of the character of an amp is in the power amp section. The FX loop will be between the preamp and the power amp, so it is before the power amp. Hence - anything you feed through the G will blend the preamp sections of both amps and send that one blended signal through both power amps. This is unlikely to sound good.

In addition to this - even blending the two preamps is going to sound bad. The way to do this on the G is to put one preamp in Loop3 and one in the insert loop. But the output of loop3 feeds the insert loop, and the insert loop output is passed to the post-gain FX section. This means that the preamp sounds would be blended even before the noise-gate/modulation/pitch/delay/reverb section. I can't imagine that it would sound good at all.

Since you do not have two channels until the post-gain FX section, there is no way to keep the two power amps separated. Even then, the initial phases of the post-gain FX section expect to see one channel until the some point when the effect is split. I don't know when - but it is likely after the noise gate when this occurs. So the noise gate would have to be split into two noise gates - one for each channel.

It is do-able in software - but I would not hold my breath waiting on TC to do it.

Using the one G to switch between two amps is easier - but serving two simultaneously and then blending the results is unlikely to make you happy.

[Laird_Williams]

just more digital junk. maybe except for the delays,
Nothing like the internet to bring out insightful, well considered opinions from informed, intelligent individuals.

:NUTS Sheesh. I'm surprised you did not take the opportunity to mis-spell some swear words too.

[Laird_Williams]

TC "recommends" the serial loop for G Force and G Major so then why did they have the KILLDRY on those units and not on the G System? Maybe the killdry will be in a software upgrade.. until then bye bye G System.
I'd be inclined to do the same in your position. I am fortunate that I use the G in situations where I have a serial loop - so I have no such problems. I have a Hughes and Kettner Switchblade whose loop is switchable between parallel and serial - and a rack preamp setup where(obviously) the post-gain FX of the G are between the preamp and power amp and hence, acts like it is on a serial loop.


I ain't putting the G System in front of my amp either just for the sake of avoiding this issue...
It would sound like goo anyway. Any time you have a delay or chorus pre-gain it smears everything out. Unless you like a nice smear - it is probably a bad idea.

[benttop]

HELLO TO EVERYONE OUT THERE IN G SYSTEM LAND!!! lol.

Ok this is my first post, I really need help answering a few questions about my G system.

I just bought one brand new, it's running 2.0

I want to use it in conjunction with my Diezel Herbert AND Marshall JVM.

If someone could offer me a few pointers on this it would GREATLY be appreciated. I've read the manual front to back and it doesn't offer a lot of help with my exact situation.

I just bought all of this gear together for a reason. MIDI. I'm not really that experienced with MIDI or all it can do but from what I understand these 3 items should all work well together. I figure these 3 SHOULD work well together at least.

I want to run BOTH heads at the same time, at all times (blending their sounds). I want the G System to be the universal switching system for both heads and the effects. I'm only using the G System for time based effects, in addition I wont be adding ANY kind of preamps/overdrive/boost pedals at all. I want the G System to go through both the loops on each head, which brings up my first big question...

Can the G System run through 2 effects loops on two different heads (of course running the same effects to both)??? How exactly is the best way to set this up?

Also, is it pretty easy to set up the midi on this unit to run both heads? Like as easy as picking the effect I want, choosing the channels on each head I want, then saving THAT as one patch which the g will later recall with one button? I'm a litle confused on this subject..

Thanks in advance for any help I recieve!!!
:confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:

About the only way you could do this would be to get a multi-relay loop box and switch the G-System completely between the two amps. This isn't likely to be easy - getting it set up to sound right with both amps would be a big challenge. And you would not be able to use both at the same time. Trying to daisy chain the processor between two loops won't work correctly at all - give up that idea. A loop box with enough relays could theoretically do it, but there are going to be a lot of challenges, not the least of which is connecting this frankenstein together every time you gig it.

I think a better alternative would be a second processor that is controlled via the G-system using the MIDI out. Keep all your effects processing entirely separate for the two amps.

[jazzguitarplay]

Nothing like the internet to bring out insightful, well considered opinions from informed, intelligent individuals.

:NUTS Sheesh. I'm surprised you did not take the opportunity to mis-spell some swear words too.

i might not be able to spell very good but i can the sh_t out of a guitar, and im telling you, this digital nonsence is for tab sucking amuteurs, excuse the spelling, and clean the digital wax outta your ears and go analog, believe me, its better for the world

[thedeadsea]

i might not be able to spell very good but i can the sh_t out of a guitar, and im telling you, this digital nonsence is for tab sucking amuteurs, excuse the spelling, and clean the digital wax outta your ears and go analog, believe me, its better for the world


...and there I was marvelling at how successful this forum has been at avoiding uninformed garbage...

[gbtommasi]

i might not be able to spell very good but i can the sh_t out of a guitar, and im telling you, this digital nonsence is for tab sucking amuteurs, excuse the spelling, and clean the digital wax outta your ears and go analog, believe me, its better for the world

Digital or analogue, if it sounds good, what's the matter?
I can't get your point, sorry

[benttop]

read this-http://www.happybob.com/marc/digital_sucks/index.htm. i have a friend who bought a 1600.00 Mesa Boogie Stileto amp, incredible, he puts a g force in front of it and to my ears it made this great amp sound like a cheese factory. i know sound is subjective, thats just my opinion. For me digital has its place, like on delays, but its pure cheese in general. maybe to you it sounds good, but it almost never feels right and clutters up ones playing with in torarable cold stiff sound. which is the reason why i went to mostly analog pedals and amp ods/distortions. its just an opinion, if it sounds good to you, cool, thats the cool thing about this forum, o and sorry if my spelling sucks, i read and write in musical notation better then my grammer and spelling skills lol

Interesting that you can hear all this terrible digitalness on your amp, but you can't hear it on your CD's, the cable audio channels, or your satellite radio. Done right, digital works great. Your friend with the Mesa amp simply did not do it right.

[gbtommasi]

read this-http://www.happybob.com/marc/digital_sucks/index.htm. i have a friend who bought a 1600.00 Mesa Boogie Stileto amp, incredible, he puts a g force in front of it and to my ears it made this great amp sound like a cheese factory. i know sound is subjective, thats just my opinion. For me digital has its place, like on delays, but its pure cheese in general. maybe to you it sounds good, but it almost never feels right and clutters up ones playing with in torarable cold stiff sound. which is the reason why i went to mostly analog pedals and amp ods/distortions. its just an opinion, if it sounds good to you, cool, thats the cool thing about this forum, o and sorry if my spelling sucks, i read and write in musical notation better then my grammer and spelling skills lol

You know, before using the G-system I had a very complex pedalboard, in which the only digital gear was a Line 6 DL4. Most of pedals were true bypass, and I used line splitters to recall several chains, so that a smaller number of pedals were in the signal chain actually.
It sounded great, but complexity and maintainace were major issues to me. When making a soundcheck before a concert last october, I had lots of problems with crackles, whistles, scratches and so, probably due to one or more cable failures. It was awful, I was praying that everything worked til the end of the gig.
So i decided to switch to G-system and make things plain simpler than before. The first time I used it I realized there was something different.
But not so different than I would expect. And believe please, I am an analogue guy. I use to listen to old LPs rather than CDs, which does not sound good to my ears :-)


What it's most important, effects are good, and I can still use my drive pedals.

[supersecretjim]

Hey zzzsleepzzz

I run my Peavey XXX & Genz Benz Black Pearl at the same time & it sounds great. Each amp sound like it should. I am using the insert loop & loop 4 thru each amps effects loop in a 4 cable hookup method.

[zzzsleepzzz]

I think a better alternative would be a second processor that is controlled via the G-system using the MIDI out. Keep all your effects processing entirely separate for the two amps.


I thought about this...but from what I hear the G SYSTEM is a nightmare for running additional midi equipment. I'm not sure what exactly to do....

If I went this way it'd be
GSYSTEM
JVM HEAD
HERBERT HEAD
ADDITIONAL PROCESSOR

All triggered off of the G System...anyone have any experience using a G System to trigger so many midi devices? I've seen posts on other boards where people say if you going to try that FORGET IT, which worries me a bit, especially since I'm a freakin MIDI NOOB!

[Jazzgear]

Your friend with the Mesa amp simply did not do it right.

Not necesarilly true.

I actually do enjoy using digital gear in my rig. Had been a G force user for nearly 10 years. Unfortunately, I bought in to the G-SYS hype and sold the G Force before I actually auditoned the G-SYS...and what a big mistake that was. The G-SYS just did not integrate well with my Mesa RK II...like someone before me described the sound as "Tubey."

I know I set the unit up right...I know how to read and comprehend -- and am a Computer Systems Programmer ....so understanding abstract things is not something new to me.

The G _SYS is a great piece of technology...However, it is not for every implementation, yet. I hope to revisit this in the future to see if things have improved.

One thing I'd like to see for certain (in addition to the Killdry feature), is the ability to route effect pedals (and guitar dry signal) in a pure analog path to the front of the amp.

The dual AD/DA conversion cannot be a good thing, no matter how good the converters.

I am now using an Eventide Eclipse, and couldn't be happier (its digital too!). Next up for me is a Sound Sculpture Switchblade to take care of my routing and levels mixing.

[supersecretjim]

Just kinda curious....

What are the planned updates & fine tunings for the next G-System software update? Did Tore TC tell all & I somehow missed it?

I know about the software editor, & have heard people really wanting a rotary simulator, but has anyone heard whats really to come?

And Tore...

WHEN???

Eagerly awaiting my update fix...

[mrkz1974]

Hey guys.

Well, a month ago I was one of those guys that couldn't wait to get their hands on the G-System and read every bit of forum information I could before it got to my door 2 weeks ago brand new from Sweetwater.

What a disappointment! The first unit arrived and after plugging it in I quickly realized the tone coloration and noise this unit emits. After trying several wiring methods (FX loops (par and ser), direct, semi), several amps (Bogner Duende, Voxer 18, Fender 64) I realized that this white noise definitely came from the G-system.

My Sweetwater rep sent me another and guess what? The same thing. I tweaked and tweaked and tweaked to no avail. What a disappointing piece of gear! I would only assume that for such an expensive system a decent noise gate would be built in, but the noise gate is ok at best.

Maybe it was just me, but I'm back with my amazing amp and dead quiet pedalboard with no gates.

Just wasn't for me I guess.

[gbtommasi]

Not necesarilly true.


The dual AD/DA conversion cannot be a good thing, no matter how good the converters.

I am now using an Eventide Eclipse, and couldn't be happier (its digital too!). Next up for me is a Sound Sculpture Switchblade to take care of my routing and levels mixing.

Eventide Eclipse is a great piece of gear, absolutely, but it's a quite different concept than the g-system.
Dual digital conversion is not an issue, if it is done in the correct way, and you have probaly heard it on thousands of records and guitar sounds without even noticing it. And it is the only way to keep things in the place they should be without using a very complex and expensive system.


Hey guys.

Well, a month ago I was one of those guys that couldn't wait to get their hands on the G-System and read every bit of forum information I could before it got to my door 2 weeks ago brand new from Sweetwater.

What a disappointment! The first unit arrived and after plugging it in I quickly realized the tone coloration and noise this unit emits. After trying several wiring methods (FX loops (par and ser), direct, semi), several amps (Bogner Duende, Voxer 18, Fender 64) I realized that this white noise definitely came from the G-system.

My Sweetwater rep sent me another and guess what? The same thing. I tweaked and tweaked and tweaked to no avail. What a disappointing piece of gear! I would only assume that for such an expensive system a decent noise gate would be built in, but the noise gate is ok at best.

Maybe it was just me, but I'm back with my amazing amp and dead quiet pedalboard with no gates.

Just wasn't for me I guess.


I use my equipment for work, so my equipment must be silent, and must do exactly what i set it up for. If this thing should even weakly colour my dry sound, or even worst produce noise, i would have thrown it in the street, or maybe on ebay ;)

Never heard that


Really guys, absolute or abstract senetences like 'cannot be a good thing' or 'tone coloration' are not an argument. Because: if your amp sounded 'tubey', this just means YOU and the piece of gear did not interface correctly, no matter what the gear is (it happened to me also, i could not manage to have a Mesa subway blues produce a decent sound to my ears, when most people told me it's a great amp: so it was my problem i guess). If you have noise when a thousand of people don't, then you have a broken unit OR you are doing something wrong.

It's just math :p

[mrkz1974]

I use my equipment for work, so my equipment must be silent, and must do exactly what i set it up for. If this thing should even weakly colour my dry sound, or even worst produce noise, i would have thrown it in the street, or maybe on ebay ;)

Really guys, absolute or abstract senetences like 'cannot be a good thing' or 'tone coloration' are not an argument. Because: if your amp sounded 'tubey', this just means YOU and the piece of gear did not interface correctly, no matter what the gear is (it happened to me also, i could not manage to have a Mesa subway blues produce a decent sound to my ears, when most people told me it's a great amp: so it was my problem i guess). If you have noise when a thousand of people don't, then you have a broken unit OR you are doing something wrong.

It's just math :p

gbtommasi:

You think you're the only pro player in this forum? I do this for a living as well. I have excellent amps, guitars and pedals. While the G-System does has excellent sounding effects, the audible white noise is unacceptable even when no effect is on the chain and no pedals are in the loops and is not acceptable to my ears. I believed the G-System was going to be the answer to all my tone needs and even had a custom pedalboard being built for it; needless to say I had to cancel that order!

As far as your claim that out of thousands we're the only ones complaining, I can tell you for a fact that's dead wrong and you should do your research on other forums. I'm not the only one that has complained about the noise level and tone coloration on the G-System; I have other pro guitar players and friends who because of the G-System's convenience have made it work successfully with an ISP Decimator PRORACKG (not the stomp!) despite complaining about the added noise:

(http://www.isptechnologies.com/decimatorprorackG.htm)

My point here is that you're the one making ABSOLUTE statements.

I just wanted to share what MY experiences were with the two G-Systems that I ended up returning. If you don't like it, too bad.

[Stevo57]

Wheres the !@#$%^&* editor already?
Theres nothing worse than empty promises.
:FM

[Proteus]

Has anyone mounted their G-system on a pedal train pro? If so how is working out and how hard was it to do?

I just got mine yesterday and just listened to the preset thru headphones, very inspiring. Can't wait to hook up my amps and begin to get my hands dirty.

[gbtommasi]

gbtommasi:

You think you're the only pro player in this forum? I do this for a living as well. I have excellent amps, guitars and pedals. While the G-System does has excellent sounding effects, the audible white noise is unacceptable even when no effect is on the chain and no pedals are in the loops and is not acceptable to my ears. I believed the G-System was going to be the answer to all my tone needs and even had a custom pedalboard being built for it; needless to say I had to cancel that order!

As far as your claim that out of thousands we're the only ones complaining, I can tell you for a fact that's dead wrong and you should do your research on other forums. I'm not the only one that has complained about the noise level and tone coloration on the G-System; I have other pro guitar players and friends who because of the G-System's convenience have made it work successfully with an ISP Decimator PRORACKG (not the stomp!) despite complaining about the added noise:

(http://www.isptechnologies.com/decimatorprorackG.htm)

My point here is that you're the one making ABSOLUTE statements.

I just wanted to share what MY experiences were with the two G-Systems that I ended up returning. If you don't like it, too bad.

you better calm down, because I did not used this kind of tone. Believe what you want if this makes you feel better. Just please calm down.

[gbtommasi]

Wheres the !@#$%^&* editor already?
Theres nothing worse than empty promises.
:FM


:JAM hey Tore, you better hurry up with the editor, or we will have to make a coalition and travel to Denmark, where we will be your guest for a couple of weeks! :eek::eek::eek::eek::eek:

[supersecretjim]

Yeah.

[Stevo57]

Sorry for the rant, but my back needs relief from the constant bending over to program. The fact theres no public beta out suggests it's more than just around the corner from a release. TC should throw some additional resources at it IMHO.

[supersecretjim]

Tore...

I know TC plans on rolling out the new release & the editing software at the same time, but is it possible for TC to release just the update if it is ready for the public?

That would at least give us something to run with. Is the update ready for us? And, once again, whats in the update?

Thanks!

[+BroNNoS+]

Personally I get a little annoyed by the people complaining about Tore not being informative enough and the complaints of the 'delay' of the update. Be glad that he gives us an update now and then at all! He is willing to listen to our 'hints' of improvement and replies to the questions in this forum. And if he has some kind of life next to his job as I have as well, he will not be able to respond here every day.

In the end he could also just keep his mouth shut and we would one day see the update online ready for download. Cope with it: It is done when it is done!!

PS. For people who are breaking there backs programming the GS....use a table, they are invented for it..

[gbtommasi]

Personally I get a little annoyed by the people complaining about Tore not being informative enough and the complaints of the 'delay' of the update. Be glad that he gives us an update now and then at all! He is willing to listen to our 'hints' of improvement and replies to the questions in this forum. And if he has some kind of life next to his job as I have as well, he will not be able to respond here every day.

In the end he could also just keep his mouth shut and we would one day see the update online ready for download. Cope with it: It is done when it is done!!

PS. For people who are breaking there backs programming the GS....use a table, they are invented for it..

I just tried to joke on the whole thing, if you did not notice; of course Tore is making us all a favor, and i am personally grateful for this.
On the other hand, even if you are probably unaware of this, when you create expectations in someone then it is very difficult to manage delays. This is true in real life, and it is even more true on an internet forum, when you can say whatever you want, even things you would never say personally.

Reading the tone of this and some other post on this thread, I am starting to think that this thread is close to its end. Which is a pity, because it was a precious resource, but it's probably lasting too long.

[zzzsleepzzz]

This thread should NOT be close to it's end.

This is the most informative thread I've found on ANY forum I've been on, and it's a major help for people that DO have the GSystem and need questions answered.

Everyone needs to just grow the **** up a bit and quit bashing one another. MY SHITS BETTER, YOUR SHIT SUCKS, YOU DONT KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING. I just dont get all the accusations.

This thread should be about discussing the G System. Not the G FORCE, not the ECLIPSE, not posting nonsense about it, just real discussion of it. If you hate it go start G SYSTEM SUCKS THREAD!

I joined this forum JUST for this thread, and I check on it everyday because I am pretty new to the Gsystem I own. It sucks to come back each day for the last few days and the only updates are a bunch of bitching and moaning and finger pointing.

EVERYONE take a deep breath. ahhhh much better

I have found this to be the case for me. I bought my G SYSTEM without ever trying it. I read on forums people that loved it, then read about people that hated it. I came to this conclusion. The people that loved it and made it work all stated it REALLY takes some time to tweak. People I've seen that have GREAT tone that use it, said it REALLY takes some time to tweak. A lot (NOT ALL MIND YOU) of the people that have bashed it had posted about pluggin it in and it sucking tone right off the bat, or they tried it at guitar center and A/B'd it and it sucked.

SO this lead me to believe if I bought one and REALLY took the time with it, it would work for me.

Well sure enough I plugged it in and right off the bat it sucked the tone in a BIG way. After tweaking it for about 4 hours I thought it sounded good, then I plugged directly into the head and WHOA it sounded WAY better without the G System. SO after reading through the threads I already knew I must be doing something wrong. Sure enough, after engaging the correct settings and working hard at understanding the unit and the way it's set from the factory, it started shaping up VERY nice. It's pretty obvsious to me that when this thing is shipped they turn ALL the levels down low and disengage all the loops and AND inserts and such. I feel this is done to protect amps and the GSYSTEM itself from people plugging in some raging distortion pedal thats cranked and damaging something.

Now after working with it EXTENSIVELY (It was NOT easy, and I still have a ways to go with many other aspects) I've got it to the point where it sounds EXACTLY the same as it does A/B'd to the same head directly plugged in. This has not only been my opinion but the opinion of all my band members as well. Don't say I don't know shit about shit or blah blah blah. I play a PRS through a Diezel Herbert in this setup, so I KNOW about good tone and the search for it and all about owning quality gear. I've sold 12 heads just because certain parts of their sound didn't sound EQ'd correctly to me.

My point being is that it's working out great for me so far!! :D
I AM running version 2.0 software, which i've heard DOES make a difference. I just don't know what to tell people that are having huge issues without sounding accusatory. IMO (notice it says opinion, this isn't fact) something has GOT to be overlooked or you have a damaged unit or are not using the latest software.

So to sum this up, I think it's a GREAT piece of gear. People that are looking to buy one, I would say DO IT!! Just make sure you get a new one (I bought mine from sweetwater, they just got it a week before I ordered it) with the newest software. DO NOT buy it however if you are not inclined to making it work. If you are a plug in a pedal and play guy, this will NOT work for you IMO. If you are a tweaker, this thing will begin to sound great.

End of Post :AOK

[JLantern]

I too bought the thing without testing it. However, I had great experiences from G-Force prior to GS. I also read this forum merely because of this thread. It has helped me, and in the best case I've even helped out someone else.

Software editor is something I'm prepared to wait until it works as it should. Until that, I'm accustomed to making all extensive adjustments only after placing the GS on a stool or such. That really spares you back ;)

Patience does it, all you good ppl. A bit of buddhism and zen, a few mantras and deep calmness. I do believe we're getting there eventually.

[Tore TC]

Hi guys,

Once again I want to apologize for not coming through on my promise. I wish - trust me... I really really really wish - I could give you some good news, but we're still struggling with a a particular and rather significant part of the editor. If I could give you a date I would, but as some of you mentioned, it's almost worse getting your expectations up for something and then get disappointed than not being "in the known". But I hope my sporadic posts in here are still welcome - I value the ideas and information I get here very highly.

It's a good idea to release the software - I'l look into that.

@ gbtommasi: If you ever get to Aarhus, Denmark drop by the TC factory. I'd be happy to give you (or anybody else interested) a guided tour.

[gbtommasi]

Hi guys,

Once again I want to apologize for not coming through on my promise. I wish - trust me... I really really really wish - I could give you some good news, but we're still struggling with a a particular and rather significant part of the editor. If I could give you a date I would, but as some of you mentioned, it's almost worse getting your expectations up for something and then get disappointed than not being "in the known". But I hope my sporadic posts in here are still welcome - I value the ideas and information I get here very highly.

It's a good idea to release the software - I'l look into that.

@ gbtommasi: If you ever get to Aarhus, Denmark drop by the TC factory. I'd be happy to give you (or anybody else interested) a guided tour.

Of course it was a joke, still the next time i come to Denmark I will not miss a visit to TC factory!

For what concerns the editor/software, there is nothing we can do but wait until you guys at TC finsih your job.
Your posts are highly welcome and significant. Someone here is a bit nervous, but I think a forum should always be a resource for sharing ideas and solutions, and not for arguing.:BEER

[paults]

Tore- thanks to you and to TC for your continued involvement in this thread.

I know of at least two manufacturers who quit participating in online forums because of the negative comments they would receive from people if a product (or update) was delayed. Now, they both are entirely silent until each NAMM Show. Even then, they don't post in online forums, anymore.

So, thanks.

[Proteus]

okay, after thinking I would have to drill holes into my pedal train pro and somehow line up the g system, I noticed that if I bought the srews and found a slate of metal long enough to hold in between the metal bars that it would hold the G system with out drilling. Sure enough it worked! The G sys doesn't move perfect!!!

I've had it for about a week now and from reading the manual and reading this thread I've been able to make the G work for me. So far its been great. Though I'm only scratching the surface with this thing, I see good things in the future. Can't wait to buy the TC expression pedal that was made for this plus the future updates and the editor. Gonna be awesome!!

[trsU2]

Speaking of the new TC expression pedal, anyone know the price? I didn't see it on their website.

[johnrea_77]

I'm anxiously waiting for the X1 to show up at a US TC Dealer. I've managed to make my Ernie Ball VPjr work, but it just barely cutting it, the X1 should fix that !


I appreciate Tore's updates. I don't think that anyone in here should doubt that his input has been honest and you have to realize he doesn't have to post in here. Post smart !

[Proteus]

dunno I would assume since everything they sell is quite pricey, that it would cost around 150-200. I read on Harmony-central that they should out by august though.

[gbtommasi]

I will surely grab an x1 as soon it's out. Hope it does not really costs 200$, though!:worried

[Proteus]

Me neither!! That a lot for an expression pedal.

[Laird_Williams]

Now after working with it EXTENSIVELY (It was NOT easy, and I still have a ways to go with many other aspects) I've got it to the point where it sounds EXACTLY the same as it does A/B'd to the same head directly plugged in. This has not only been my opinion but the opinion of all my band members as well...

You are so right about needing to take time to tune the unit to your rig. It took me a day of adjusting to make it acceptable and then a couple of months of playing and making occasional adjustments to get where I really love it.

And then I got second AMP (1 studio rack, one combo now) -- and had to go through the whole thing all over again :crazy . I'm still working on tweaking the combo.

Thank goodness for MIDI dump so I can save/restore the globals setup for each amp. I also write the settings down on <gasp> paper for backup. I'd go insane if I lost them.


I have found that because of all the back-and-forth of cables you get if you really use the unit, there is a tendency to have some ground loop hum. I got some Morley isolators and put them in a couple of key places. Things improved right away - and then I was able to back off the gate to boot - which always improves things if you can get away with it.

This holds extra-true of you have a rack/studio setup where you have something like I have:

Gtr -> Line Buffer In
Line Buffer Out -> G-System In
G-System Insert Send -> Amp In
Amp Speaker Out -> DummyLoad/CabSim/DI In
DummyLoad/CabSim/DI Out -> G-System Return
G-System out =stereo=> Studio Mixer

That's 6 connections between 4 major pieces of gear. The ground loop potential is mind-boggling. The $300 I dropped on an 8-channel isolator and the associated extra cables was money well-spent.

I use a 2-channel isolator (for the amp FX loop hookup) when using the combo with the G and it also helps things quite a bit.

[Tore TC]

Both the X1 and V1 should go for around 120$.

[gbtommasi]

Both the X1 and V1 should go for around 120$.

Tore :BEER

[Proteus]

file:///Users/edmartinez/Desktop/DSC01513.JPGhttp://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h121/proteusaustin/DSC01516.jpghttp://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h121/proteusaustin/DSC01513.jpg

[jesper]

Hi guys,

just wanted to clarify what you already figured out. :)

The insert loop is just like the other 4 loops. The only difference is that the insert loop is buffered, so that you can run long cables back to your amp/ preamp without any audio degradation. It can be used and controlled like any of the other 4 loops.
Would it be posible to buffer loop 4 so i can put a booster in the insert loop and boost the signal?

[SBRocket]

Anyone come up with any good ideas for a case to transport the g system? I don't want to keep bringing the box to gigs.

Thanks,

Steve

[GtrWiz]

Anyone come up with any good ideas for a case to transport the g system? I don't want to keep bringing the box to gigs.

Thanks,

Steve


http://www.gatorcases.com/productimages/gk-2110_no_bg.jpg

http://www.gatorcases.com/productsdetail.aspx?LID=2&PID=123

[+BroNNoS+]

Anyone come up with any good ideas for a case to transport the g system? I don't want to keep bringing the box to gigs.

For G-System without expression pedals
http://www.thomann.de/gb/thon_case_tc_electronic_gsystem.htm

For G-System with expression pedals
http://www.thomann.de/gb/thon_case_fuer_vox_tonelab_se.htm

This is my setup :)

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i162/bronnos/gsys.jpg

(http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i162/bronnos/gsys.jpg)

[sixstringmonk]

Laird, where exactly are you running the morley hum eliminators? It sounds like maybe they are between the amp loop send/g-sys insert return and the g-system out/amp loop return.

I'm still working out my hum issue.

[supersecretjim]

I just (1:00 AM - Couldnt sleep) bought one of the gator cases. Should be pretty cool. Got it from American Musical for around $32.00 shipped.

Well see how it is....

I would be remiss if I didnt ask....

Tore - how about that firmware update?

[DrRedD]

Would it be posible to buffer loop 4 so i can put a booster in the insert loop and boost the signal?

Indeed, that's how we all got onto the subject. If you boost before the pre-amp, you're not really gonna boost the signal - therefore using Loop 4 for the pre-amp and then using the Insert Loop (Loop 5) with a boost pedal like a Sex Drive or Fet Booster etc.. will then act as a signal boost post pre-amp.

I'm still as yet to try this - had to revert back to my Boss GT-8 for a tour of small gigs............

Let us know how it works

DrRedD

[Laird_Williams]

Laird, where exactly are you running the morley hum eliminators? It sounds like maybe they are between the amp loop send/g-sys insert return and the g-system out/amp loop return.

I'm still working out my hum issue.

There are two places where I have seen hum crop up with the G.

If you are on a PA/Rack setup, you need to consider an isolator between the output of the G and the mixer. This made a HUGE difference in my studio.

If you are using an AMP with an FX loop, where the preamp section of the amp is in the G's insert loop, then you need to consider putting an isolator between the G and the amp. Ideally, this would take 3 channels of isolation:

G Insert Send ---Iso---> Amp In
Amp FX Send ---Iso---> G Insert Return
G Out ---Iso---> Amp FX Return

My experience is that the first location is often unnecessary, so putting a two-channel isolator in the amps FX loop often takes care of any ground-loop interaction between the amp and the G.

As a matter of policy, I now isolate all audio connections in my rack and mobile rigs that are between any two pieces of AC-powered equipment. I generally do not patch instruments/mics through isolators. This works very well.

Please remember that there are other sources of hum:
1) Yer GEETAR - especially one with poorly-shielded single-coil pickups
2) Yer AMP - Higher gain channels will hum
3) Yer Instrument Cable - Get a good one!
Combine any two of the above and you'll REALLY have a good time ;-)
A good cable, guitar shielding, a properly-tuned noise-gate and proper gain staging are the solution to these problems - not ground isolation.

And no - good ISOs like the Morley/eTech units don't do anything significant to dynamics. In many cases they improve it, since once they are in the circuit you can create a proper gain-structure through your whole signal path where before you may have had to do some wierdness with the gain structure to compensate for the hum prior to their insertion.

Like anything else though, it WILL slightly alter the gain level of the signal and you will have to readjust everything else to bring the dynamics back to where you are used to having it.

:BITCH I am so tired of people plugging in a new device, not making any other adjustments, and then complaining about how their tone cacked or their dynamics went bad. Your rig is an ecosystem. When you introduce a significant change to any ecosystem, the entities already present will have to adjust. Expecting otherwise is ignorant at best.

[keychange]

Has anyone with an amp featuring a line level effects loop considered using one of the Ebtech line level shifters to lower the level being sent to the G-system and then boast the return level to line level? I was looking into getting one of the Ebtech hum eliminators and was thinking that the line level shifter might be a solid solution to my Soldano's mis matched loop levels. I currently have a mod in place to reduce the loop to +1 rather than the normal +4 but this seems like it might be an ideal solution?? Any thoughts from you guys before I spend the money and possibly find out the hard way???

Thanks,
Dave m.
:bwl

[Laird_Williams]

Has anyone with an amp featuring a line level effects loop considered using one of the Ebtech line level shifters to lower the level being sent to the G-system and then boast the return level to line level? I was looking into getting one of the Ebtech hum eliminators and was thinking that the line level shifter might be a solid solution to my Soldano's mis matched loop levels. I currently have a mod in place to reduce the loop to +1 rather than the normal +4 but this seems like it might be an ideal solution?? Any thoughts from you guys before I spend the money and possibly find out the hard way???


I have not tried since my H&K loop is switchable between -10/+4, but it sounds like a great idea for amps that can't switch. A mismatch like that might explain some of the tone/feel problems some folks seem to be experiencing with the G.

[adrianlrockstar]

Hi guys, have been following this thread and just bought a G System last week... it's great. Like alot of you have said adjusting the input level corrected what some past posts have said was tone sucking, or not as good as going straight into your amp. Any way I don't want to repeat what has already been established. I've mounted mine in a pedalboard / roadcase I got made up - I'll post a pic sometime...

What I'm trying to figure out is the best way to go with expression pedals... I know alot of people are using Ernieball volume pedals as expression pedals, also the guy that posted the pic with two boss expression pedals... how are they working out? If you're used to a std wah pedal, i'm wondering how the ernie feels (sweep) and what the G Systems wah sounds like...?

I was thinking of either getting a wah and assigning it to a loop, or just getting an expression pedal and setting it as default to wah on each patch, only problem I could see would be that you'd have to switch it off via the filter switch rather than toe down like a std wah...

I'm from New Zealand and we often get gear alot later by the time it gets over this side of the world... so I often buy from the US and ship it myself (our retail prices are ridiculous too...!) Has anyone heard anything about the new Ernieball wahs? Are they yet to be released?

I'd appreciate guideance on what everyone thinks is the best way to go for expression pedals, especially considering wah (I'm not worried about a volume control..) thanks - Adrian

[Laird_Williams]

... Has anyone heard anything about the new Ernieball wahs? Are they yet to be released?

I'd appreciate guideance on what everyone thinks is the best way to go for expression pedals, especially considering wah (I'm not worried about a volume control..) thanks - Adrian

I happen to love the feel of the Ernie Ball volume pedals. If you prefer their pedal feel, check this out.

I use a pair of Ernie Ball Jrs jacked into the Volume and Expression jacks of the G. It is a little-known fact about the G that you can use a volume pedal for the expression pedal.

[+BroNNoS+]

I know alot of people are using Ernieball volume pedals as expression pedals, also the guy that posted the pic with two boss expression pedals... how are they working out?

That would be me :). I like the sweep of the boss, but this is very personal. I also like the sound of the wah, maybe not as colorful as a crybaby but very useful nonetheless. I have an expression pedal assigned to the wah in every patch and use the motion activation option with it. No movement, no wah (with some activation delay) like the morleys. Works for me!

[JLantern]

How does the wah operate, I mean does it have latency? I used Ernie ball as wah controller, but there was terrible latency problem, and the EB is way too sticky to be used as a wah controller :(

At the moment, I don't have a wah in my setup, which sucks. I didn't want to run extra cables to my Morley and from there-on just to get wah.

[trsU2]

Adrianlrockstar: If you can find an expression pedal that is comfortable, the wah function may work for you. I have a Yamaha expression pedal that I use with my G System for pitch and parameter changes (i.e. increase delay repeats, tremolo speed, etc.). However, the pedal has a wide sweep making it harder to use for wah...it's also a little hard to use with the whammy function.

Same thing for the EB volume pedal. Initially, TCE said you could not use the EB pedals for expression but a bunch of us tried it anyway and found they worked! But, again their feel is way different than the standard wah pedal. Personally, I found it easier to use my Vox wah in one of the loops. Only downside is that I have to run 2 cables up front and have to either program the loop to be on every preset OR remember to kick the loop switch on. Shop around and try some pedals...they all feel different.

[paults]

I have my expression pedal (Ibanez VL-10) set up as a wah in several patches. If you experiment with the filter sweep range, you can get a similar feel to your fave wah. More importantly, try the AutoOn parameter. No need to use the Filter switch to turn the wah on or off. Move the pedal, its on. Take your foot off, the wah turns off.

[adrianlrockstar]

Thanks guys... real helpful stuff... kinda hard for me to 'shop around' here - as our music stores don't stock alot of expression pedals. So it would mean having to buy one in and see how it worked, hence why I was asking you guys your experiences. There is a Korg EXP-2 that I know of going 2nd hand (NZ$75), might try that, but still keen to get an Ernie jnr over. Quite like the feel of the ernies, but not sure how it will go with wah.. guess i just gotta try it and see how it goes. wish my board was big enough for a std wah and a separate expression... http://www.thegearpage.net/board/images/icons/icon9.gif

The wah movement function sounds great! that was one of my main concerns about having to turn on and off via the filter switch, so I think that will work great.

One question I have though... If I have movement function set for all presets, then I have wah whenever I need it... but if I want to adjust delay or modulation settings via expression this would have to be set (if I was just using one pedal) in place of the wah on any given preset?

Thanks guys!

[JLantern]

One question I have though... If I have movement function set for all presets, then I have wah whenever I need it... but if I want to adjust delay or modulation settings via expression this would have to be set (if I was just using one pedal) in place of the wah on any given preset?

That's correct, one purpose for each preset. (Actually, if you wish, you can even set the pedal so that it controls both the wah and dly / mod parameters simultaneously, but that wouldn't probably do much good.)

[paults]

That's correct, one purpose for each preset. (Actually, if you wish, you can even set the pedal so that it controls both the wah and dly / mod parameters simultaneously, but that wouldn't probably do much good.)

"Tap Tempo" works very well for on the fly modulation/delay adjustments, too.

[DaveNJ]

Hey all, I've seen numerous references to adjusting the G-System's output when it's being used in an effects loop. I'm away from my G-System right now but I'd love to check this out when I get back home - what output settings are you changing?

Also, I'm using it in the effects loop of a boogie mkiv combo...

Thanks, Dave

[sixstringmonk]

I think all of the loop levels could use more explanation as to how to calibrate them (rules of thumb), and what their default levels are.

[BMonroney]

I've seen much discusison here of expression pedals. I bought a pair of Line 6 expression pedals to use with my G-System, they feel good and were inexpensive. They're all plastic but seem quite rugged. I also recently bought a new M-Audio expression pedal for use with my Moog Ring Mod - it's a good pedal, haven't tested it with G-Sys yet put I suspect it would work well. It has a minimum value pot like some of the Boss pedals, which might come in handy.

[Laird_Williams]

I think all of the loop levels could use more explanation as to how to calibrate them (rules of thumb), and what their default levels are.

Amen Brother! Calibrating this thing is no fun.:crazy Thank goodness most people only have to do it once or twice.

A well-written set of complete calibration instructions would be most helpful. :drool One that would cover how to go about setting the following:

In the G:
- Input Gain
- Loop Level
- Loop Headroom
- Output Volume

In the amp:
- Input Gain
- Loop Send Level (or Preamp Output) level
- Loop Return (when applicable)

There are bits and pieces of this info scattered in the TC forums, but nobody there had brought it all together.

-Laird

[Laird_Williams]

I was on the TC sight, reading "new" posts in their G-System FAQ, when I came upon a post about the BOOST function in the G. They were reminding folks that the default setup leaves 6db headroom for the boost function, and hence a signal-level drop is to be expected when boost is not engaged.

It seems to me that this signal-level drop would account for a lot of "tone suckage" issues. It would also perhaps partly explain why I don't have problems.

I don't use the G's internal Boost function. I set the boost headroom on the G to zero the day I bought it. My preamp in my rack has a MIDI-switchable gain boost that sounds great - so I just reprogrammed the boost switch on the G to control that. It works great!

On my H&K Switchblade Combo - well - it stores all the gain and master volume states as part of the patches. So if I want to be able to boost a patch, I just make a copy of it and turn up the appropriate gain/master as I see fit. I then put the patches in side-by-side locations on the same patch bank and simply switch patches to get my boost.

Has anyone else thought about this? Have any of you who had "tone-suckage" problems tried setting the boost headroom to zero and then recalibrating to see what happens to your sound?

-Laird

[GtrWiz]

Has anyone else thought about this? Have any of you who had "tone-suckage" problems tried setting the boost headroom to zero and then recalibrating to see what happens to your sound?

-Laird


Check out my poll: http://www.thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?p=2493966&posted=1#post2493966

[zzzsleepzzz]

A well-written set of complete calibration instructions would be most helpful. :drool One that would cover how to go about setting the following:

In the G:
- Input Gain
- Loop Level
- Loop Headroom
- Output Volume

In the amp:
- Input Gain
- Loop Send Level (or Preamp Output) level
- Loop Return (when applicable)



AGREED x 1,000!!!!!!!!!!!

What would be the best way of going about getting something like this from TC?? Maybe if we emailed them enough they would include it lol.

I think the manual is kind of skimpy on a lot of what this unit can do, AND ESPECIALLY how to do it. You would think with a peice of gear like this the manual would be a little bigger then it is....

[gbtommasi]

Guys, i don't exactly know what kind of noise you are hearing. But i don't hear any unusual noise.
So, maybe this can help , i don't know:
I use G-sys in the loop of my marshall, using two simple George Ls cables (not balanced). Output and input of the G-sys are similarly connected to amp and guitar with George Ls cables with gold plugs.

On the G-sys, i don't remember the levels, but this is what i can say:
- boost function is on, at 6db (factory def). And yes, leaving the headroom for the boost lowers the signal/noise ratio, so if you dont use it at all you will probably notice an improvement.
- Input level is as high as it can be: picking hard the red led lights for a while.
- Loops level is set pretty high, too: pay attention to this! You have to feed your pedals with at least the same amount of gain as if they were driven directly by your guitar.

And, umm.... basically it's all here. Hope it helps. I am satisfied.
For what concerns tone degradation.. yes, there is some with the G-system, but this 'some' is extremely small. Partly, it also depends on the fact that i use the insert loop (which means two more cables... good as they can be... they're always two more cables). Partly it also depends on the boost, which lowers the dynamic response of the power amp.
Definitely, i don't have any relevant problems. I used the G-system both live and for rehersal, and in the studio lots and lots of times by now


Hope this can help someone

[sixstringmonk]

There are bits and pieces of this info scattered in the TC forums, but nobody

Forums? There is a forum on the TC site, or do you mean the FAQ posts? If there is a forum, please supply a link as I can't seem to find it.

[keychange]

Hi everyone,
Can anyone tell me how to go about setting the G-system to allow one patch to use both the Volume and Expression pedals as expression pedals while have the volume pedal still function as a volume pedal in the other patches? For example I have one patch where I want to have wah and have the volume set to control delay and mod settings. I can get it to work but only if I set the volume ctrl in pedals menu to none. It works great but I lose all volume control in all other patches?? I was under the understanding from reading the manual that the setting could be assigned specifically for each patch??

[paults]

Hi everyone,
Can anyone tell me how to go about setting the G-system to allow one patch to use both the Volume and Expression pedals as expression pedals while have the volume pedal still function as a volume pedal in the other patches? For example I have one patch where I want to have wah and have the volume set to control delay and mod settings. I can get it to work but only if I set the volume ctrl in pedals menu to none. It works great but I lose all volume control in all other patches?? I was under the understanding from reading the manual that the setting could be assigned specifically for each patch??

From my understanding, you are on the right track. Turn off the global volume pedal assignment, and then assign that pedal to volume (or whatever) in the individual patches.

[dan p]

Hi guys, I signed up on this site just because I was looking at buying a g-system and this thread had so much information and I ended up buying one yesterday. I played around with it last night at home--just updated the software to 2.01 and checked out some of the effects by running it into my Boss Micro-BR (which I know, is not very indicative of the quality of them, but it helped me to get a feel for navigating the menus, editing the parameters, and such).

I've read most of this thread, though I may have skipped a few pages, but my main question is: has anyone had success using the 4-cable routing with a floor-based g-system setup? If so, what length cables are you using? Are the ones going to the fx loop balanced? Are you using isolators?

And to the person (or people) that asked about using the g-system with a Soldano SLO-100, I'll be able to answer your questions in the next couple of days. I called up Soldano before I bought the G-System yesterday and asked about the channel switching and the +4DBu fx loop and he said neither should be an issue. I'm going to try out that Ebtech line level shifter if I have any issues with the FX loop level.

Thanks to everyone who contributed to this extremely informative thread!

[keychange]

From my understanding, you are on the right track. Turn off the global volume pedal assignment, and then assign that pedal to volume (or whatever) in the individual patches.

Unfortunately Volume isn't one of the options listed to be controlled? I can use the wah drive level for wah patches but that is less than ideal

[keychange]

Hi guys, I signed up on this site just because I was looking at buying a g-system and this thread had so much information and I ended up buying one yesterday. I played around with it last night at home--just updated the software to 2.01 and checked out some of the effects by running it into my Boss Micro-BR (which I know, is not very indicative of the quality of them, but it helped me to get a feel for navigating the menus, editing the parameters, and such).

I've read most of this thread, though I may have skipped a few pages, but my main question is: has anyone had success using the 4-cable routing with a floor-based g-system setup? If so, what length cables are you using? Are the ones going to the fx loop balanced? Are you using isolators?

And to the person (or people) that asked about using the g-system with a Soldano SLO-100, I'll be able to answer your questions in the next couple of days. I called up Soldano before I bought the G-System yesterday and asked about the channel switching and the +4DBu fx loop and he said neither should be an issue. I'm going to try out that Ebtech line level shifter if I have any issues with the FX loop level.

Thanks to everyone who contributed to this extremely informative thread!

Hi dan p,
I am using the G-system with a Slo and the 4 cable method. I am using 6' length cables at the moment to run from an SKB rack case to the head. Using 2 balanced and 2 unbalanced cables as directed in the manual. You will probably find that the loop on the Soldano head is way too hot for the G-system which is what I find. I modded my loop to be at 0DBu and it is much better but still has a high level of noise with the high gain. The noise gate cleans it up nice though. I have an Ebtech line level shifter on order that should arrive Tuesday or Wednesday next week so I will try unmodding my loop to see if that does the trick. I am very happy with the sound overall but I am curious if having the loop levels matched would work better and figure it was worth a shot. The Ebtech unit is supposed to eliminate hum as well so I am hoping for complete bliss lol. Anyway I will post back when I know the results :)

Dave m.

[supersecretjim]

I dont have time to browse this entire thread & need a quick answer if possible.

Which is best for the G-system ....+4 or -10 effects loop?

Im bringing my G-system to a friends house in vegas & he has a Splawn amp with a switchable effects loop level & I not sure on which setting to use.

Thanks!

[supersecretjim]

I dont have time to browse this entire thread & need a quick answer if possible.

Which is best for the G-system ....+4 or -10 effects loop?

Im bringing my G-system to a friends house in vegas & he has a Splawn amp with a switchable effects loop level & I not sure on which setting to use.

Thanks!

[dan p]

Hi dan p,
I am using the G-system with a Slo and the 4 cable method. I am using 6' length cables at the moment to run from an SKB rack case to the head. Using 2 balanced and 2 unbalanced cables as directed in the manual. You will probably find that the loop on the Soldano head is way too hot for the G-system which is what I find. I modded my loop to be at 0DBu and it is much better but still has a high level of noise with the high gain. The noise gate cleans it up nice though. I have an Ebtech line level shifter on order that should arrive Tuesday or Wednesday next week so I will try unmodding my loop to see if that does the trick. I am very happy with the sound overall but I am curious if having the loop levels matched would work better and figure it was worth a shot. The Ebtech unit is supposed to eliminate hum as well so I am hoping for complete bliss lol. Anyway I will post back when I know the results :)

Dave m.

whoa, glad to get a response from a fellow SLO user!

if i'm having major problems with the loop level, i'll probably just go ahead and get the ebtech unit ASAP rather than dinking around with all of the g-system levels. have you had any problems with the channel switching? i read somewhere back in this thread that somebody had a problem with it. anything else that i should know specific to the SLO head that i wouldn't find in the manual? thanks!

on a sidenote, i'm pretty disappointed that it seems like you pretty much have to put the GFX01 in a rack if you want to set the system up properly (i.e. use the 4-cable routing method).

[keychange]

whoa, glad to get a response from a fellow SLO user!

if i'm having major problems with the loop level, i'll probably just go ahead and get the ebtech unit ASAP rather than dinking around with all of the g-system levels. have you had any problems with the channel switching? i read somewhere back in this thread that somebody had a problem with it. anything else that i should know specific to the SLO head that i wouldn't find in the manual? thanks!

on a sidenote, i'm pretty disappointed that it seems like you pretty much have to put the GFX01 in a rack if you want to set the system up properly (i.e. use the 4-cable routing method).

Channel switching is great with my SLO and having the gfx in a rack is awesome if you like a nice clean setup in front of you while you play! I have several pedals in the loop and a power conditioner all tucked away by my amp and a 50' cat 5 cable is all I need to run to the board which can be any place I wish. I think many people see this as a positive but to each their own. I was originally using 20' cables to connect it prior to going the rack route and it was fine that way to. As far as special settings for the SLO goes, I keep the input level on the G system at 0 and the output around negative 5 but I am still experimenting to find that perfect balance of power and tone. I was originally running my gain on the lead channel around 9 but have backed it off to around 5 since it is plenty crunchy there and it reduced the noise a bit. As with many others here, I wish they would provide clearer direction on proper loop settings since it is kind of a mad scientist thing.....adjust and try, adjust and try, try and remember what was better lol. The one thing I have noticed with my Slo is that there can be a sound spike when switching from the lead channel to the clean channel if you are using heavy delay or reverb on the patch. This may or may not have something to do with the loop level -10 vs +o loop level I have currently. At playing volumes I have my lead channel set at 5 while my clean channel is set at 9 to get an equal volume level so this could also be to blame. I am still adjusting every practice to get it dialed in but all the guys in my band comment on how good it sounds so I imagine you will like the tones you can get. I recommend the depth mod if you don't have it and like to play heavy music. I also recommend running a second small amp for stereo since it sounds great! I have a little 30 watt marshall that I hooked up for kicks and man the panning effects sound sweet!

[sixstringmonk]

It seems I've taken care of my hum problems. The hum is 90% gone, but there is still a white noise floor. This is acceptable because the G-sys' noise gate can handle that just fine. The morely wasn't available locally and I needed to resolve this for an important gig last night, so I went with the Rolls Buzz Off iso box.

Although I'm only isolating two signal paths (g-sys insert send/return), my final solution was to use two Rolls Buzz Off iso boxes even though each box is capable of isolating two channels. When I ran both the insert send and return through one box the hum was largely reduced, but I ended up getting some odd interference from the LED display of the G-Sys. As the tap tempo LED moved back and forth I could hear an alternating tone. Routing the return through a 2nd iso box got rid of the interference. I did not notice any hum reduction when sending the final g-sys out back to the amps fx return, so for the time being, I'm not running it through an iso box.

Here is my current set up:

Guitar -> Monster cable -> G-Sys in
G-Sys insert send -> Mogami balanced cable -> 1st Buzz Off -> Monster cable -> amp input.
Amp fx send -> Monster cable -> 2nd Buzz Off -> Mogami balanced cable -> G-Sys insert return
G-Sys out left -> Monster cable -> amp fx return.

Interesting note: I tried running balanced cables on both sides of the iso boxes instead of monster cables on one side. This did not work. The send to the amp worked, but the return sent a very weak signal. The iso box must not have been able to reconsile the signal for some reason.

[dan p]

Channel switching is great with my SLO and having the gfx in a rack is awesome if you like a nice clean setup in front of you while you play! I have several pedals in the loop and a power conditioner all tucked away by my amp and a 50' cat 5 cable is all I need to run to the board which can be any place I wish. I think many people see this as a positive but to each their own. I was originally using 20' cables to connect it prior to going the rack route and it was fine that way to. As far as special settings for the SLO goes, I keep the input level on the G system at 0 and the output around negative 5 but I am still experimenting to find that perfect balance of power and tone. I was originally running my gain on the lead channel around 9 but have backed it off to around 5 since it is plenty crunchy there and it reduced the noise a bit. As with many others here, I wish they would provide clearer direction on proper loop settings since it is kind of a mad scientist thing.....adjust and try, adjust and try, try and remember what was better lol. The one thing I have noticed with my Slo is that there can be a sound spike when switching from the lead channel to the clean channel if you are using heavy delay or reverb on the patch. This may or may not have something to do with the loop level -10 vs +o loop level I have currently. At playing volumes I have my lead channel set at 5 while my clean channel is set at 9 to get an equal volume level so this could also be to blame. I am still adjusting every practice to get it dialed in but all the guys in my band comment on how good it sounds so I imagine you will like the tones you can get. I recommend the depth mod if you don't have it and like to play heavy music. I also recommend running a second small amp for stereo since it sounds great! I have a little 30 watt marshall that I hooked up for kicks and man the panning effects sound sweet!

Thanks for all of the info. After spending about 7 hours on it this weekend, I've got it "setup" although I'm nowhere near done, yet. I special ordered the ebtech line level shifter yesterday, so hopefully it comes in soon and helps out with the noise some.

Are you just using the built-in noise gate or are you running a separate one? I play with the pre gain around 5 and post around 5, and I found that the g-sys' noise gate is way too slow for me, even after spending some time changing the parameters, so I just put my old boss NS-2 in one of the loops and it's solved my problem, although I get a spike like you said when switching from the dirty channel to the clean channel. I think (for me, at least) this might be because it is quicker at turning the loop off (which has my gate in it) than it is at switching the channels. I could just leave the ns-2 on on the clean channel I suppose, but it kills a lot of the dynamics when playing clean.

I talked to Soldano about the depth mod and ended up not getting it. Instead, I replaced the vintage 30s in my bottom cabinet with eminence swamp thangs, and it definitely added a good amount of bottom end. Maybe I'll get the mod done one day, though.

Thanks again for the info--let me know how that line level shifter works out for you!

[gordiegords]

hey guys, i've read quite a bit on this thread now and i've noticed a few of talk about the use of balanced cables on the send/return for the 4 cable method, i use this setup and all my leads are balanced, is this wrong:NUTS i do get a little noise but nothing that cant be cleaned by the gate, i also get some ground hum too but i dont think that has anything to do with the leads i'am using, unless anyone can tell me different?

i use a van damme instrument cable and all my other cables are planet waves balanced, which i'am wanting to upgrade to van damme, but i now wonder if i should buy unbalanced apart from the send return cables.

any thoughts on this?

thanks

Gordie

[sixstringmonk]

Before solving my hum problem in the aforementioned post by using iso boxes, I was using two different cable setups - 1 for live use, and one for in my home. In the live setup, I did not have any balanced cables. In the home setup I used 2 high quality Mogami balanced cables in the insert sent/return. I did not notice any improvement in hum/buzz when using the balanced cables.

As far as using all balanced cables, I think it's overkill because only the loop insert/send has balanced ins/outs. I can't imagine that it would hurt your sound any however.

[jazzguitarplay]

are you guys scientists or guitar player?. go analog and get back to playing

[gordiegords]

hmmm, so you dont think i would notice much difference if i used only 2 balanced cables on the send/returns? i nkow the hum is mostly down to the electrics not the leads, when i change to my gain channel the hiss was terrible but the gate cleaned it up although i wish it was a little faster.

[keychange]

are you guys scientists or guitar player?. go analog and get back to playing

Some of us like digital effects and for us they are worth the extra tweaking. If it's not your thing so be it. This thread is and will continue to be a good resource for people who own the G-System and want to get the most out of their investment. Music is about creativity and freedom of expression. Jazz isn't my thing but hey, you won't find me on a jazz forum asking if everyone is old and telling them to crank up and rock lol. Honestly, the digital world is here, you can stop using that old room sized analog computer and get yourself a Macbook pro like me hehe. When people started playing electric guitars I am sure there were purists that clung to their acoustics. The idea is that we are free to select our own gear and direction....if your don't like digital you are probably in the wrong forum :):drool

[zzzsleepzzz]

Amen!!

Who the hell takes time out of their day to drop a trash talk line in the middle of a helpful conversation/discussion in the G SYSTEM section??

Someone needs a life lol :D

[supersecretjim]

I know we are all anxiously awaiting the new update & software editor...

Has anyone heard what exactly is going to be on the next update. Just curious. Rotary sim? User selectable effects placement? Any other cool stuff???

Anyone?

Tore?

[sixstringmonk]

hmmm, so you dont think i would notice much difference if i used only 2 balanced cables on the send/returns? i nkow the hum is mostly down to the electrics not the leads, when i change to my gain channel the hiss was terrible but the gate cleaned it up although i wish it was a little faster.

I can only speak from my own experience with the G-System, but I don't think you'll hear any difference at all.

[dan p]

Of the people here using the G-System with a high-gain amp, what are you doing about a noise gate? The G-System gate is WAY too slow. I'm using the 4-cable method and right now I've got my old Boss NS-2 in an insert loop before the preamp insert. I'm wondering if I should put the pedal in an insert loop AFTER the preamp insert instead. I'm using a floorboard setup, so I'm wondering if I'll have issues with noise due to the fact that only the 5th loop is buffered, though. I guess I'll try it, though. Just wondering if anyone came up with a better solution.

[zzzsleepzzz]

Hey dan...

By "slow" do you mean how fast it quiets the amp after the attack?

I'm using the noise gate on the G System with my Herbert and it's awesome! The herber itself wasn't noisey at all, and I must be the luckiest person in the world because i've never experienced any hum that all these other people are talking about. I feel lucky!! Anyways, it just had that sound you can't escape from ANY high gain head, which is when the 3rd channel was cranked and I wasn't playing there was a slight hiss I guess you could call it.

I turned on the noise gate and it took a bit of tweaking. It was slow at first, like I'd play a chord and it'd be like CHORD!!SSSssss*quiet* if that makes sense. If you page over there are different levels you can set, i don't remember what they were called I don't have my rig in front of me, but I adjusted it to where I hit the chord and it's immediate. It works perfectly and doesn't change the sound at all!! I have the NG set at all different levels depending on the effect/channel. With the setting I use on just distortion it's impossible to get good feedback when I want too or for delays to carry for long periods, so it's adjusted accordingly for each setting. Hope that helps?

[dan p]

Hey dan...

By "slow" do you mean how fast it quiets the amp after the attack?

I'm using the noise gate on the G System with my Herbert and it's awesome! The herber itself wasn't noisey at all, and I must be the luckiest person in the world because i've never experienced any hum that all these other people are talking about. I feel lucky!! Anyways, it just had that sound you can't escape from ANY high gain head, which is when the 3rd channel was cranked and I wasn't playing there was a slight hiss I guess you could call it.

I turned on the noise gate and it took a bit of tweaking. It was slow at first, like I'd play a chord and it'd be like CHORD!!SSSssss*quiet* if that makes sense. If you page over there are different levels you can set, i don't remember what they were called I don't have my rig in front of me, but I adjusted it to where I hit the chord and it's immediate. It works perfectly and doesn't change the sound at all!! I have the NG set at all different levels depending on the effect/channel. With the setting I use on just distortion it's impossible to get good feedback when I want too or for delays to carry for long periods, so it's adjusted accordingly for each setting. Hope that helps?

Thanks for the reply! I have a feeling that I just neglected to page over--the only settings I saw were soft/hard, threshold, and damping or something. I'm guessing there are some additional settings like decay, or something that I still have set to the defaults, because my issue is just that I would get feedback for a couple of seconds before the gate was totally closed. I'm excited that I might just be able to use the g-system's gate because I hated the idea of having to use my old boss pedal in an insert loop. Thanks again!

[gordiegords]

I use the gate on all of the presets i use gain on because the hiss from my fender was unbearable, i detect very little loss of tone, although i would like it to act a little quicker meaning when i hit the preset there is a quick burst of hiss. maybe i could sort this by trying to put the noise gate on, on all presets. so that it is on all the time, not just individual presets, but i'm not sure if thats possible.

[keychange]

Hi Dan p,
Set the Mode to hard, thres to -40, Damp to 15 and speed to 100DB. That's what I was using and it was pretty good. I have spent the last 15 minutes playing with the Ebtech line level shifter and it sounds awesome so far! I have the gain cranked to 9 on my head and it is much quieter than before. I tried playing straight into the amp for a few minutes and switched back to the g system with the boost on and the noise gate off and it sounds pretty damn close. I will need to re tweak the noise gate since there is much less noise to deal with now :)

[MusicESP]

Can anyone tell me if there is a workaround for the expression pedal latency? I've got my G-system tweaked pretty nice, but I added an Ernie Ball VP jr to the mix this past weekend, and the latency (delay between moving the pedal and actually hearing the effect) is really bad. Most noticeable on wah patches.

Are there any settings which can help or mods to the EB pedal?

[dan p]

Hi Dan p,
Set the Mode to hard, thres to -40, Damp to 15 and speed to 100DB. That's what I was using and it was pretty good. I have spent the last 15 minutes playing with the Ebtech line level shifter and it sounds awesome so far! I have the gain cranked to 9 on my head and it is much quieter than before. I tried playing straight into the amp for a few minutes and switched back to the g system with the boost on and the noise gate off and it sounds pretty damn close. I will need to re tweak the noise gate since there is much less noise to deal with now :)

Thanks for the update, keychange! I'll try your gate settings out and see how it goes. I tried setting the speed all the way up last night (200db/s) and it worked much better, obviously, but I still couldn't get it sounding very good--I think it's because I was trying to dial it in on "Soft". When I switched to "Hard" to see what that sounded like, it killed my overall output level, but I probably should have tried lowering the threshold to compensate (I had it set to around -8db for "Soft"). Hopefully, your settings work for me! BTW, why only damp it 15db? What's the downside to using as much damping as possible? It doesn't seem like the amount of damping would have an impact on the sustain the way that the threshold and db/s do. I'm probably missing something, though.

So, it sounds a lot better with the line level shifter? I can't wait to get mine in. Once you think you've got it all dialed in well (or maybe you do already), do you think you could tell me your global level settings?

[keychange]

Thanks for the update, keychange! I'll try your gate settings out and see how it goes. I tried setting the speed all the way up last night (200db/s) and it worked much better, obviously, but I still couldn't get it sounding very good--I think it's because I was trying to dial it in on "Soft". When I switched to "Hard" to see what that sounded like, it killed my overall output level, but I probably should have tried lowering the threshold to compensate (I had it set to around -8db for "Soft"). Hopefully, your settings work for me! BTW, why only damp it 15db? What's the downside to using as much damping as possible? It doesn't seem like the amount of damping would have an impact on the sustain the way that the threshold and db/s do. I'm probably missing something, though.

So, it sounds a lot better with the line level shifter? I can't wait to get mine in. Once you think you've got it all dialed in well (or maybe you do already), do you think you could tell me your global level settings?


I am still toying with it but when I get it to where I like it I will post my numbers. I am not 100% on how exactly the noise gate is supposed to be dialed in but those settings cleaned up the noise I was having. If anyone else has a good understanding of the noise gate you can feel free to chime in :) One of my biggest complaints before was that I couldn't switch back and forth between clean and dirty channels while using a looping delay without the volume levels being mismatched. The delay volume always shot up when switching from dirty to clean so I could never make it work. This seems to be solved now since the line level shifter has it running at the proper levels. The only problem I have to sort out now is why my right channel is so hot, when using my old crate stack on the right channel the volume comes through even when it is set to 0 on the head lol. I will have to try running into the return on the crate rather than the input to see if that works. I should get an opportunity to toy around more on the weekend.

[sixstringmonk]

FYI: There is a new section on vai.com devoted to his tech Thomas Nordegg. He describes Vai's current setup with the G-System:

http://www.vai.com/tn/gear.html

Steve's setup:

"The guitar in line goes into the Wah Wah on the board - either the Dunlop automatic one or the Bad Horsie (he switches between the two). From there it goes to the two distortion boxes, the DS-1 and the Keely modded TS-10, then the EvH flanger and from there it goes back into the front of the amp.
The send from the amp goes out to the volume pedal (Morley Little Alligator), into the G-system and the two stereo outputs from there go into the returns of the main head and the second head. The 3rd head is a backup. The Whammy is in the loop too, by the way.
The G-system is like a G-force but built onto this switchboard. And the cool thing is they have huge buttons with full light illumination behind them so you can see what is going on in the dark.
I plugged the Carvin amp switcher directly into the G-system - it has a built in switcher, I can assign any switch to it."

[Stevo57]

Hey don't worry *J* , that editor and update release is right around the corner.....
anyday now ......
really.......
I hear that train a comin'.........

:rolleyes:

[4thManInTheFire]

For anyone reading this thread who might have initially had the "tone sucking" problems with their G-System; I wanted to let anyone interested know that I solved my problem.

It was the combination of the compressor being ON and the input gain levels on the G-System not being adjusted high enough, duh. I can't believe how much I overlooked these two issues. I'm also going to test the boost headroom settings as the poster Laird suggested I try; this could further improve things probably.

To see how much the compressor can suck the tone out of your guitar and amp, have your preset on B95 (all bypassed) playing on a clean channel of your amp. Turn the compressor on and off and compare how it can practically turn your guitar into an electric banjo with dead batteries powering it ;). Well, maybe not that extreme but in my opinion it's pretty bad when the compressor is on vs off.

Notice the LED indicator levels on the left side of your G-System when you pick hard or soft. The damp level indicator on the right side will show you how the compressor reacts. What you want to do, in my own experience, is play as hard as you think you'll usually dynamically attack your guitar strings and try to get the left indicator bar to just barely peak with the most aggressive attack you may do when you play. Turn off the compressor for all your presets except for ones such as flangers, phasers, high pictch wahs, etc because the sound wave swells become much too ear-piercing without the compressor on.

I honestly don't even need to use my effects loop anymore now that I have made the necessary changes on my G-System. Everything is in front of the amp and honestly...it sounds amazing. And I kept going back and forth between direct from the guitar to the amp vs having the G-System in the chain and the difference is incredibly minimal. And I'm super anal about that. Sure certain effects going before the preamp could be better but it's pretty minimal considering I only use the clean channel of the two amps I play through.

By the way if you ever have to send your G-System to support and they tell you it'll be a 7-8 turnaround, they mean 25 flippin' days! They said it was because they swapped out my unit for a new one and had to transfer over my stored presets so I wouldn't lose them. C'mon, professional companies meet deadlines for touring musicians; what gives!?

I sent mine in because the lights that surround each pedal button were flickering on and off sometimes so I figured it was worth replacing while under warranty and just in case I had a G-System that was faulty overall because of my tone sucking issues at the time.

I totally agree that TC made a very minimal manual. The default settings on a G-System from the factory are totally unacceptable and the fact that people have to tweak the crap out of them to get it working correctly is odd to me. However now that I have it dialed in I couldn't be happier.

Anyone considering a G-System, you need to be patient, sharp, and prepared to spend time with it. The rewards are far worth it though.

[keychange]

When you calibrate you set min and max only. Within the patches you can set min, mid and max levels to taste. You do this by selecting edit, enter, enter and selecting which pedal controls which parameter and adjusting min, mid and max etc.

Both of my Roland expression pedals give odd numbers when calibrating but function fine

[markom89]

These seem like the ultimate "effect" for gigging musicians. While it's not cheap, based on what I've read it can pull off some great effects, and has sturdy construction... If ever I make it "big" I might just get one...

[gbtommasi]

For anyone reading this thread who might have initially had the "tone sucking" problems with their G-System; I wanted to let anyone interested know that I solved my problem.

It was the combination of the compressor being ON and the input gain levels on the G-System not being adjusted high enough, duh. I can't believe how much I overlooked these two issues. I'm also going to test the boost headroom settings as the poster Laird suggested I try; this could further improve things probably.


mate, compressor can be tweaked... i am very satisfied with the g-system compressor, it works fine and i am able to set it very subtle. But hey, of course it changes your sound a lot. Even if you try a keeley comp, which is one of the most transparent and smooth, you will notice a 'narrowing' of your sound and dynamics.
That's quite natural. If you want to test your unit's tone sucking, you have to turn all of your effects off.
Said that, i made a lot of tests, and i agree with you: it sounds incredible. I haven't experienced any tone sucking and any hum.

[jhbpa]

Toggle switches problem after upgrading from 2.0 to 2.01

Prior to upgrading when assigning hold or toggle to an effect switch it was unique to the preset, now the assignment is global.

Easy example: In one preset I might want the filter effect set to autowah and the switch set to hold. In another preset I might want to control the wah with the expression pedal and set the switch to toggle.

I've searched the utilities and global menus for a clue with no success.

Anyone else encounter this problem.

[gordiegords]

Has anybody got any footage of them using the g system? i'll start, the first vid i'm using a very simple technique and the second vid i'am using the amp switching. i know its not the most complexed of examples but check it out anyway guys.




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