G system [Archive] - The Gear Page

BountyHuntr

07-08-2005, 01:26 PM

OK... 1st Initial opinion after only 15 mins, running guitar to G-System, mono out to input of amp, no pedals in loop.... as basic as it gets.

60-70% of th effects are out of the box useable with little tweaking needed. Not as much variety as say the GForce but all are fairly well balanced output-wise and all seem much clearer than the G Major or the Force. I've had both but it's been awhile since I've had them so I'm going by memory. I'm absolutely sure the delays etc would sound better in the effects loop or after the amp but they blow doors on the H2O and Nobels delay I currently have... and others I've had in the past. I would think it'd be super easy to add or incorporate a G Force, Fireworks, Eventide, or whatever and control it all with the G-System.

The pedalboard itself is layed out nice, plenty of room to stomp the buttons, the Boost is fantastic!! Seem very easy to have your presets or even kick in an effect on any given preset you're using, if you want. Haven't tweaked anything but from previous readings it shouldn't be difficult.

It appears to be solid as a rock! A beast at about 20 lbs. Better have a pedalboard lid at least 4 1/2 to 5" inner heights... needless to say I need a new board to mount it and the pedals on! Argh! Screw holes in bottom of the base to mount to your pedalboard... Not big enough but there's other ways to mount it I'd say.

It's still early but it seems like it will fill my needs and be a huge boost in my effects arsenal. OHHhhhh guitar tone is well fairly well preserved. Slight decrease in volume and maybe 'some' presence but I may be able to tweak the volume on the input level.

Head'n back to enjoy it for awhile.. hope this helps and I'll probably have more to follow in the next week or so.....

Frankenstrat2

07-08-2005, 01:58 PM

Sounds very encouraging.
Thanks for the review.
I'll wait until the honeymoon fever subsides, and look forward to more reviews from you and others as the unit ships.
b.

avenerjimmie

07-14-2005, 03:26 PM

any more thoughts on the thing after playing it more?

BountyHuntr

07-14-2005, 04:06 PM

Won't play out with it until this weekend..... but.... The effects are very high quality, easy to tweak, etc. I don't have an effects loop in my amp and so they may improve even more.. hopefully. They are better than anything I've had for sure. Overall, and I'm assuming since guitar to amp signal runs through the G System constantly, there is a bit of a 'digital' quality, not unlike what you hear on recordings. THis is easily tweakable with the EQ on the board or via PA. I've mic'd the amp and run it through my PA ( Yamaha 01V96, Yamaha S115IV tops and JBL MP418SP subs ) and I did have to reduce the channel highs and boosted the low and high mids. Bottom line is it sounds better now, significantly better... I guess tomorrow night will tell the true story.

I can say in general that my sound now, though a bit more processed sounding, is greatly improved. I still like the guitar > 1 or 2 pedals > amp, but if you need effects and can take the time to tweak... lordy it can sound as pro as you want, and still sound virtually like guitar to amp... not 100% but 95%+. Then add the variety of effects it offers and your a monster :^ ). Our other guitar player came over 2 nights ago and about had to change his shorts!

I'll let you know how the weekend turned out, but for now I'm completely happy!

Frankenstrat2

07-19-2005, 01:42 PM

bump for update?

BountyHuntr

07-19-2005, 03:12 PM

Sorry, been busy and didn't want to hog the post!

The G System is awesome, a keeper, soooo easy to use and even tweak on the fly if needed, the tuner is great. If you like or need effects, I'd get it!! If you are a guitar and amp with no effects kinda player.... it's way overkill.

In the past couple years I've used basically 3 OD or boost pedals, a compressor and 2 delays/chorus. Frankly I rarely used the delays or chorus cause I just didn't like the sound. The G System does change your whole tone in a sense but it is in a very good way... assuming your using the effects in it. You can always have a preset with no effects and still have perfect guitar/amp tone, but I'm finding there is a whole other world of fanfrickintastic guitar tones that I've (for whatever reason) never been able to get... until Fri night! And any given preset I can kick in one of the OD/boost pedals in the loops or kick in another effect and change everything. The d*** thing is so versatile and simple to use yet provides you with an arsenal of top quality effects.

I'm not a pro but I average 10-12 nights a month.... and I've had inumerable amps, guitars, and effects over the last 20+ years and nothing has ever been this much pleasure... and ease.....

It may not be for everyone and that is understandable but my needs are changing where I need(and want)more than just guitar/OD/amp and this thing is going to be a great asset... Now I just need to buy an OD-100SH :^)

Scott Peterson

07-19-2005, 07:08 PM

Very cool.

I am heading to NAMM and the first stop after business is TC's booth to check this thing out.

I want one again. Bad. Arrhgghgggg.

:D

Frankenstrat2

07-19-2005, 07:59 PM

Very tempting.....
Very tempting
Very tempting

That was a delay test.

I'm testing how long I can delay ordering one.
:D

Stevo57

07-19-2005, 08:17 PM

Who has the best price on these? I saw $1450 one place. Anything better?

elambo

07-19-2005, 11:17 PM

And who actually has them in stock?

I've called every listed reseller in Chicago and NO ONE has them. I've even checked a few of the online sellers and no go there either.

fatback

07-20-2005, 12:23 AM

I'm getting more and more interested in these. I see a demo in my future once they show up in some local stores. It's kind of like the grand mothership of all t.c. pedals.:p

and speaking of t.c. pedals...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v484/fatback2/IMG_1443.jpg

I just got the distortion/booster pedal in a long-distance trade last week. The sustainer/eq is my favorite tone-tweaking envelope-smasher and has been with me for a few years. Nothing subtle about this comp. Just add digital verb and arpeggiate open notes and harmonics for instant ECM era Frisell atmospherics.

Scott. If you'd be so kind, please check out and report on the TPD1 pre-amp pedal while you're at the t.c. booth. I've had my eye on that one since it was announced. Wish I was going. Have a blast!

BountyHuntr

07-20-2005, 05:44 AM

Try http://www.riksmusic.com/

Talk to Eric

Scott Peterson

07-20-2005, 07:20 AM

Originally posted by fatback
Scott. If you'd be so kind, please check out and report on the TPD1 pre-amp pedal while you're at the t.c. booth. I've had my eye on that one since it was announced. Wish I was going. Have a blast!

Done man. I'll report back on the G-System and the TPD1 too.

Desiknow

07-20-2005, 07:21 AM

I have one on route. It should be in my hands on Monday.

As far as price. I got mine for 1380 with tax.
I have a good friend that works at Guitar Center. He is not making any money on my sale.

I told him about the $1050 post and he said that not even if he bought one, could he get it for that price. (meaning that the store nor he makes any money on it) and he is the manager in the guitar dept.

Maybe SteveLINY just got really lucky.:confused:

Anyways I am very exciting and will be selling a lot of freaking gear once I am sure about this thing.
My whole reason for getting it is that I need stored setting and still want to use my OD's this seems like the perfect fit.

Boss and LineSick didn't do it for me at all.

JohnnyM

07-20-2005, 10:51 AM

how big is it, dimensions please?

BountyHuntr

07-20-2005, 12:13 PM

I'm not home to measure but approximately it is:
W - 19 1/2" x D - 12+" x H 4+" give or take 1/4 to 1"

Mondoslug

07-24-2005, 10:08 AM

awaiting your TC G System post NAMM review... :)

Can it do more than 5 presets at a time? It looked like from the manual that you could possibly tweak the function of some of the other switches to act as presets than just the 5 that are initially assigned to do that?

BountyHuntr

07-24-2005, 10:37 AM

I'm anxious to here Scott's opinion too...

In the meantime to answer your question ( I think... not sure I completely understand exactly what you're asking ):

There's 40 banks of 5 presets. In any given preset you can engage/disengage any other function/effect at any time. Ex: if preset one all you have is Comp in the preset, punch in any one of the effect loops, or Filter, or Delay, or Reverb, etc. That is essentially like having another 'X' number more presets.

Most of my presets are set up with just effects. On some songs I obviously need an overdrive sound so I just kick in the one or more loops ( which are my 3 gain pedals ) ..... Ex: If on preset 1, which is Comp only, I want medium gain, I just engage loop 2 for that song before starting. If on the lead I want some Reverb, just kick in the Reverb... an on an on an on..... This is actually how I've arrived at a few of my presets, by engaging some other effect, really liking what I heard and then just saving it as another preset. Now that doesn't always work though if you change presets in the middle of the song and go back to the 1st preset you started with (Comp only) as you will have to engage preset 1 then engage loop 2... too much hassle cause it's like your back to stomp'n on multiple pedals to change the sounds... so you'd obviously want to set 2 different presets up for that situation.

I hope that answers your question??? If not let me know and I'll try to explain it better.

Cam

Mondoslug

07-24-2005, 10:45 AM

Hey thanks for your review...especially since you're like the only person I've come across that actually owns the unit.

As far as presets I thought I had read(possibly not) that you might be able to program some of the other switches to actually function as "presets" therefore giving you more than 5 per bank at a time...ie: 8 presets at a time(not just 5)?

BountyHuntr

07-24-2005, 01:13 PM

Ahhhh.. yes you can do that too...page 7 and 42 in the manual

fatback

07-25-2005, 12:49 PM

Hey Scott, how did they sound?

Scott Peterson

07-25-2005, 02:24 PM

I am really pushed at work right now; but I hung out at the TC Booth on Friday early and spent about an hour there bothering Marc Cooper and asking lots of questions. I also listened to his demo (1/2 hour long).

I am flat out impressed. Totally. The things that it doesn't do yet - intelligent pitch shifing, no computer editor - are coming. They are going to support this thing much more than you might think.

There will be an editor coming. 2-3 months. There will be intelligent pitch shifting, no time frame but not more than 6 months out.

I was told - to my face - that the G-System is like having a G-Force *AND* a G-Major on one box, processing powerwise and capibilities wise. They have not yet added all they are going to add to the effects. And what I heard was REALLY good sounding. The converters on the G-System are completely different and a huge leap from the G-Force and G-Major according to both Marc and the TC guy there with him.

I gotta get one. It'll be a bit for me because I don't have that sort of coin laying around, but I gotta get one. Flat out.

Stevo57

07-25-2005, 02:58 PM

Scott, will it be upgradeable through the USB port or via computer as updates come out?

Mark Barratt

07-25-2005, 03:13 PM

Scott,
Did you try out the TC -- VPD 1 by any chance ?
cheers,
Mark.

Scott Peterson

07-25-2005, 06:47 PM

Steve,

Via computer using the USB port. There already is a V.1.02 upgrade right now. More coming.

I did not get to try it personally, just have their demo guy Marc Cooper try stuff as I listened. He had the VPD in the G-System's loop and it sounded really good. He likes it as a mid gain pedal. I didn't get too indepth with him over it though, I was a G-System groupie.

Kevin11

07-25-2005, 07:00 PM

Originally posted by BountyHuntr
Ahhhh.. yes you can do that too...page 7 and 42 in the manual

Speaking of the manual. The download on tc's website errors out every time I try it. Have they published a downloadable version of it yet? If so does anyone have a copy they can direct me to or email me?

I'm ready to nab one of these and would love to read up on it more while I'm waiting for it to ship. For you guys that have one already, thanks for all the info!

-Kevin

BountyHuntr

07-25-2005, 07:07 PM

I can email a pdf in the morning. Part of their site looks to be down and funky now.

Desiknow

07-26-2005, 06:20 AM

Guys, I was scheduled to get mine on Monday but it came early. My friend from GC called me on Friday and I ran to go pick it up.

Wow, this thing is pretty. I fiddeled with it for about 30 min every day, I couldn't help myself. Why only 30minutes? I had my furture mother-in-law in town making wedding plans for April.
Luckely we shipped her back home on Sunday so yesterday I spent about 3 hours with it and I feel like I haven't even begun.
This thing is crazy! :dude ( I mean it in a good way )
There are ust so many possibilities. I wasn't going in blind either. I had downloaded the manuel a week or two ago so I knew more or less how to navigate though it.
It is exciting to hear they are going to have an editor.

I am going to love this thing. It sounds awesome and I am going to be able to create sounds that I never would have been able to with my pedalboard.
My Tophat Ambassabor seems to love too.

I will report back soon.

Jack Luminous

07-26-2005, 10:07 AM

Originally posted by Mark Barratt
Scott,
Did you try out the TC -- VPD 1 by any chance ?
cheers,
Mark.

I bought one 2 weeks ago. It's a greatly versatile rock pedal. It goes from very light breakup to full on infinite sustain. But it is not suitable for metal. It has a seventies/classic rock quality in the voicing... It can do sorta VHish tones but no Metallica. It can do very nice cutting fusion tones using the mid boost function. The speaker simulator sounds great. On the whole, it reminds me a bit of the old sansamp, the first that came out. It has a similar character in the tone. Great build quality. Great pedal.

Mark Barratt

07-26-2005, 11:29 AM

Originally posted by Jack Luminous
I bought one 2 weeks ago. It's a greatly versatile rock pedal. It goes from very light breakup to full on infinite sustain. But it is not suitable for metal. It has a seventies/classic rock quality in the voicing... It can do sorta VHish tones but no Metallica. It can do very nice cutting fusion tones using the mid boost function. The speaker simulator sounds great. On the whole, it reminds me a bit of the old sansamp, the first that came out. It has a similar character in the tone. Great build quality. Great pedal.

Thanks for that description,
I've been thinking of getting one -- But the price in the England is putting me off at £257 !!! (US$447) -- i've seen the U.S. price listed at $299 which is £171 and i gotta say that i really can't understand why its so expensive in the U.K. The pedal is made in Denmark and England and Denmark are in the EEC -- but its miles cheaper in the States !!!! Go figure that out. TC Electronics will NOT sell many of these pedals in England at that price.

I have a G force along with a Distortion/Booster Line Driver, a SCF pedal and a Sustain/Parametric EQ and had hoped to grab the VPD 1 as well but i'm not sure at the moment.

I don't need a "metal" type pedal but i also don't want a too "Low Gain" type pedal either. What other Pedals would you compare it to ??? I chop and change pedals all the time and would get one if it adds something different.

The other overdrive pedals i have at my disposal are ---
Mosferatu
Zendrive
Bixonic Expandora (version 1 & 2)
Rat 2
Fulldrive 2.

I'm wondering where the VPD1 would fit in amongst this lot ?

fatback

07-26-2005, 12:18 PM

Thanks for the review Jack. I'm going to have to pick up a VPD-1 and give it a try. On the site they dsescribe it as getting an AC-30 top boost sort of sound. Were you hearing this? If I hadn't of just ordered the new Jamman pedal this week...

Mark, I'm also a big fan of the old t.c. pedals. I just traded a couple of pedals to a guy in Australia for an old Phase XII B/K.

Mark Barratt

07-26-2005, 03:58 PM

The TC phase pedal was the other one i wish i had of bought at the time.
I tried one and liked it but probably wouldn't have used it much (at that time -- 15 or so years ago) -- I guess i thought that those TC pedals would have been always available !!!!

Mark.

Boogie92801

07-26-2005, 06:29 PM

The way I see it, this thing is not meant to replace your favorite distortion pedals. It's strong points are the delay, reverb and chorus. That is the beauty of it. I want it for it time and pitch effects.

fatback

07-26-2005, 06:38 PM

Hey Mark, Keep your eye on Ebay.;)

They aren't there yet, but I'm sure some enterprising re(Ebay)tailers will soon be putting VPD 1s up there with a market value BUY IT NOW price.

bluelew

07-26-2005, 10:30 PM

Thanks for all the reviews on the G system. Questions: 1. If your using the loops with pedals, are they exclusive -meaning if you step on loop 1 with a TS and then step on loop 2 with a chorus does loop 1 with the TS turn off when you step on loop 2 with the chorus? This would save some foot stomping if switching to a new loop automatically shut off the previous loop. 2. Can you incorporate loops and store loops in a preset- meaning can you program a preset to combine your TS in loop 1 with chorus and delay from the G system? Or do you always have to step on a loop to activate it.

Thanks,
lew

Mark Barratt

07-27-2005, 12:54 AM

Originally posted by fatback
Hey Mark, Keep your eye on Ebay.;)

They aren't there yet, but I'm sure some enterprising re(Ebay)tailers will soon be putting VPD 1s up there with a market value BUY IT NOW price.

Yes -- i'll do that, i think i'll sit tight and wait to see what comes up.
Many thanks for the email regarding that Phase too.

Jack Luminous

07-27-2005, 02:31 AM

Originally posted by Mark Barratt

I have a G force along with a Distortion/Booster Line Driver, a SCF pedal and a Sustain/Parametric EQ and had hoped to grab the VPD 1 as well but i'm not sure at the moment.

I don't need a "metal" type pedal but i also don't want a too "Low Gain" type pedal either. What other Pedals would you compare it to ??? I chop and change pedals all the time and would get one if it adds something different.

The other overdrive pedals i have at my disposal are ---
Mosferatu
Zendrive
Bixonic Expandora (version 1 & 2)
Rat 2
Fulldrive 2.

I'm wondering where the VPD1 would fit in amongst this lot ?

Ha !! Another TC addict !! Yeah I'm a big fan of the old TC analog pedals too. I have almost a complete collection now : TC dual param eq, TC booster/dist, smallish TC preamp, TC phase XII B/K, TC SCF (old version, not surface mount), TC sustainer and now the VPD-1... I'm still looking for the TC phaser VII (very hard to find) and the XII (not B/K).

It will certainly be different from all the others you have though I never heard the Zendrive and the Mosferatu. But I know quite well all the others you have. Here's how I would describe the voicing : it is a mix between Marshall and Vox, being very mid-healthy but very smooth and warm and with a sort of hi-end shimmer and complexity but without being harsh or piercing. I find the treble boost position a bit nasally, but it works very well in a band context and even better if pushing a slightly gritty amp (my 2203 in the low input with the gain maxed for example). The mid boost position gives a very good woman tone on the neck pickup and can also be used to tighten rythm playing in the bridge pickup. You can also tighten the boost or give it a bit more sag using the bass cut knob. The distortion also reminds a bit of the distortion in the old TC booster/dist but much better. Clearer, more complex and a lot more versatile. The good thing also is you can set 2 very different tones with the drive versus the boost part. It can basically turn a single channel amp into a 3 channel one. Also, I find it's one of those device where you can't find a bad tone, no matter where you set the knobs. It will produce very different tones depending on the settings, but none unusable. It has been very well thought out, like all their other pedals.

Originally posted by fatback
Thanks for the review Jack. I'm going to have to pick up a VPD-1 and give it a try. On the site they dsescribe it as getting an AC-30 top boost sort of sound. Were you hearing this? If I hadn't of just ordered the new Jamman pedal this week...

Mark, I'm also a big fan of the old t.c. pedals. I just traded a couple of pedals to a guy in Australia for an old Phase XII B/K.

Grab it, you won't be dissapointed. But wait for a good deal because I still think it's a bit pricy. I got it for 200 euros because I bought the demo model from a shop whose owner I know well. Else it would have been 300 !!

Mark Barratt

07-27-2005, 10:45 AM

It will certainly be different from all the others you have though I never heard the Zendrive and the Mosferatu. But I know quite well all the others you have. Here's how I would describe the voicing : it is a mix between Marshall and Vox, being very mid-healthy but very smooth and warm and with a sort of hi-end shimmer and complexity but without being harsh or piercing. I find the treble boost position a bit nasally, but it works very well in a band context and even better if pushing a slightly gritty amp (my 2203 in the low input with the gain maxed for example). The mid boost position gives a very good woman tone on the neck pickup and can also be used to tighten rythm playing in the bridge pickup. You can also tighten the boost or give it a bit more sag using the bass cut knob. The distortion also reminds a bit of the distortion in the old TC booster/dist but much better. Clearer, more complex and a lot more versatile. The good thing also is you can set 2 very different tones with the drive versus the boost part. It can basically turn a single channel amp into a 3 channel one. Also, I find it's one of those device where you can't find a bad tone, no matter where you set the knobs. It will produce very different tones depending on the settings, but none unusable. It has been very well thought out, like all their other pedals.

Thanks Jack for that very comprehensive review ! (better than whats on the TC website) I'll probably get one , just wait for a better price !!
Going by what you say it sounds as though the distortion feature on the VPD1 is different to the old BLD. The BLD loads up the front end a bit if you're not careful.
Amp wise i'm using a JMP 100 into an old Mesa Boogie 4x12 and i only ever use the low input too.
I'm pretty much sold on this pedal but i was staggered when i saw the price.
I emailed TC 4 years ago and suggested they make an update on the BLD and i reckon they should do the decent thing and give me a free one !!!!!!!!!!! ??

One thing though WHY is this Pedal called a VPD 1 (one) -- could it be that they are going to introduce a version 2 sometime soon ??? --- i wonder.

Jack Luminous

07-28-2005, 02:22 AM

I think it's not really an update to the BLD IMHO. It cannot do clean boost for example. It's completely different alltogether but you can hear the lineage in the distortion. No risk of loading the front end, the output impedance is very low, 180 ohms I recall. Oh yeah, it's balanced too (but can be used unbalanced of course). I'm very glad they got back in the analog pedal market and I hope they'll put out more things like that in the future.

daneswede1

07-28-2005, 08:47 PM

I am just about to buy this G System as well. I went to Guitar Center and the best I could get was $1280 price plus 6% fla sales tax yikes. Not bad though. I did see the guy in the first few posts mention $1050 price at GC??? What is GC???? aAnyone know where that is. WE will all flock there and buy this thing if someone can dicifer GC?IS that a website? $1050 is a great price! That is 40% off roughly wich is what I am looking to buy it at. Especially with no sales tax so ill throw it on the credit card.

Also the guy above who is writing reviews raving about the G System is also running it through the FRONT DOOR of his amp. THat is why 5% change in tone. I gaurentee if you run it through a loop your tone is unaffected . WIth the G Force you had to tweak a little bit of eq to get it to sound perfect. Just take a listen to any STEVE VAi stuff on his DVDS of late i.e. G# stuff and its all TC Electronic effects ala G Force. Supposedly the G system is the same quality effects but also has 4 loops to true bypass your fav pedals in and out. amp switching whichj is awesome cause I got a BOGNER Uberschall and a Marshall 2203x both with LOOPS! YES! Im getting one definitely but I want the best price! ANyone can decifer the above GC? Let us all know!

Thanks

I was heading to the guitar store actually tomorrow but Im putting the brakes on until I get the best price.

Kevin11

07-28-2005, 08:48 PM

Originally posted by bluelew
Thanks for all the reviews on the G system. Questions: 1. If your using the loops with pedals, are they exclusive -meaning if you step on loop 1 with a TS and then step on loop 2 with a chorus does loop 1 with the TS turn off when you step on loop 2 with the chorus? This would save some foot stomping if switching to a new loop automatically shut off the previous loop. 2. Can you incorporate loops and store loops in a preset- meaning can you program a preset to combine your TS in loop 1 with chorus and delay from the G system? Or do you always have to step on a loop to activate it.

Thanks,
lew

1. No (unless you program 2 patches)
2. Yes

I THINK! :D

I don't have one yet, but in reviewing the manual, the loop switches seem to behave like the effects on/off switches. You can store loop on/off settings with each patch and change them from the stored setting on-the-fly (just like a pedalboard) by hitting the dedicated loop buttons (1 - 3 only by default. Loop 4 doesn't have a dedicated button but you can change that in the edit utility). So you could have loop 1 on and 2 off in a patch and kick 2 on with its loop button. In this "play" mode, loop 1 and 2 would be on. Looks like you can have all the loops on as well as the dedicated tc effects if you program it that way. I don't think you can program it so one loop will turn off when you activate another with the dedicated buttons. You'd have to program 2 separate patches (one with loop1 on and 2 off, the second with loop1 off and 2 on). I hope this makes sense.

Scott Peterson

07-28-2005, 09:26 PM

The quoted $1050 price is actually dealer cost; so unless you know (or *are*) a dealer, that isn't gonna be a realistic price for you.

Yea, I checked on that price too. :D

daneswede1

07-28-2005, 11:02 PM

If $1050 is dealer cost than these G Systems are expensive even to the dealers price! Thasts 40% off only. Well, I guess the $1280 it will be for me then. That is a good price I suppose. Total price will be around $1350. A little better than $1499 and $1399 ive seen on the net. I mgonna go get it tomorrow. Screw it. Gonna take a chance. ITs TC Electronics. I got to thoroughly check the manual cause Im a retard with digital effects but a genius with guitar tone! Cant be good at everything. Its funny because I have close to 40 students where I teach at and 8 of them are also waiting for me to buy the G System to see if they will buy it to. I should get a DIY kit and make a home made overdrive pedal to sell to my students! ID clean up! LOL! Well, I have a BOGNER Uberschall with a loop and a Marshall 2203x with a loop. Im gonna start with the Bogner first. The Marshall is at work and I am bringing it home before we shut down for two weeks on vacation mode. The school re opens mid August. Might as well pull the cab out to. Itll be cramped at the house but two half stacks stuffed in a den will still be fun to mess aroung with the G System. Ill have to rent that warehouse after all. Using the work studio isnt an every day opportunity. ITs a first come basis! And we have 15 music teachers of which 13 gig! Including myself. Its a fight for the rehearsal roomsa in the back!

Well its off to bad. Ill let you guys know how it went with the TC unit this week. I still have to order it at the GC. Oh Guitar Center DUH---GC!! Figured it out! I deciphered it! There are two GCs near my home and they did offer the best price at 1280 so ill do it.
Night tone FREAKS! Keep the tone alive!

PS:
Thinking about getting the following for more overdrive to run thru my Marshall other than my TS9 mod and OD1 mod

LYNCH TIME MACHINE BOOST
KLON CENTAUR ( #1 choice and already called to order 10 week wait approx!!!!!)
SYBIL by RETROMAN
KEELEY COMPRESSER pedal - gonna get this one anyway

Desiknow

07-29-2005, 08:34 AM

This thing is making me want to quit my job so I can program all of my sounds.

I feel like I can finally materialize all of the sounds and switching I had buzzing around in my head.
I am going to finally be able to do stuff live that I thought I would only be able to do in the studio. :dude
:AOK :dude

BountyHuntr

07-29-2005, 09:47 AM

Also the guy above who is writing reviews raving about the G System is also running it through the FRONT DOOR of his amp. THat is why 5% change in tone. I gaurentee if you run it through a loop your tone is unaffected

Problem is I have an amp with no E/L and no way to add one, per Dr Z. That's exactly why I'm looking for an amp with an E/L. I don't know of any way to have an E/L even with another piece of gear... other than another amp... ( wishing for another Z w an/ E/L or the ODS50 or the new OD50...... I'd love an OD100 but it's overkill ( at least I'm thinking it is :confused:

BTW... I am noticing one thing I don't like... the Boost switch is in the wrong place for my size 13 feet! It sits above Preset 5.... which I am guaranteed to hit unless I cock my foot sideways to press the Boost! I know...don't sweat the smal stuff.

Desiknow

07-29-2005, 10:17 AM

[i]BTW... I am noticing one thing I don't like... the Boost switch is in the wrong place for my size 13 feet! It sits above Preset 5.... which I am guaranteed to hit unless I cock my foot sideways to press the Boost! I know...don't sweat the smal stuff. [/B]

Look through the manual. You can move the effcts, loops, and even presets anywhere on the board. Ie. you can move your boost to where the Pitch is and move the pitch down to where you boost is now.

;)

Stevo57

07-29-2005, 10:22 AM

Can someone please PM me where I can get it for $1280?
Thanks!

rkstarr

07-29-2005, 11:51 AM

d2//2290///etc

apalazzolo

07-29-2005, 12:05 PM

Originally posted by Stevo57
Can someone please PM me where I can get it for $1280?
Thanks!

an ebay outfit "audiosycrazy" or somethoing like that is selling them with a "make best offer" option. the ad offers free shipping. my offer of $1250 was declined, but they wrote me to say it would be accepted if i agreed to pay $18 for shipping. i chose not to do it (i am still not convinced it's for me) ...

presumably, that means anyone can offer them $1268 can snag one ... good luck kids!

:dude

Dennis Rayburn

07-29-2005, 12:09 PM

Originally posted by BountyHuntr
Also the guy above who is writing reviews raving about the G System is also running it through the FRONT DOOR of his amp. THat is why 5% change in tone. I gaurentee if you run it through a loop your tone is unaffected

Problem is I have an amp with no E/L and no way to add one, per Dr Z. That's exactly why I'm looking for an amp with an E/L. I don't know of any way to have an E/L even with another piece of gear... other than another amp... ( wishing for another Z w an/ E/L or the ODS50 or the new OD50...... I'd love an OD100 but it's overkill ( at least I'm thinking it is :confused:

BTW... I am noticing one thing I don't like... the Boost switch is in the wrong place for my size 13 feet! It sits above Preset 5.... which I am guaranteed to hit unless I cock my foot sideways to press the Boost! I know...don't sweat the smal stuff.

If it's got loops for distortion/OD pedals, shouldn't it be run in front of your amp as oposed to in the effects loop?

apalazzolo

07-29-2005, 12:31 PM

Originally posted by Dennis Rayburn
If it's got loops for distortion/OD pedals, shouldn't it be run in front of your amp as oposed to in the effects loop?

this system allows you to put some effects up front (such as compression and overdrives in these loops), patch in your preamp, add your choice of other effects (presumably time-based stuff like reverb and delay) and i think some of the analog pedal loops can be used here too and then send the output to tyour power amp ....

someone will know for sure, but i think this requires a series effects loop to do it this way ... so it goes:

guitar>>some of the g system effects (out the preamp patch loop)>>amp input>>series effects loop out>>some more g system effects (in the return for the g system preamp patch loop, through the effects and out the output of the g system)>>series effects loop return to the power amp and speaker(s) ....

is this correct?

Dennis Rayburn

07-29-2005, 12:33 PM

Originally posted by apalazzolo
this system allows you to put some effects up front (such as compression and overdrives in these loops), patch in your preamp, add your choice of other effects (presumably time-based stuff like reverb and delay) and i think some of the analog pedal loops can be used here too and then send the output to tyour power amp ....

someone will know for sure, but i think this requires a series effects loop to do it this way ... so it goes:

guitar>>some of the g system effects (out the preamp patch loop)>>amp input>>series effects loop out>>some more g system effects (in the return for the g system preamp patch loop, through the effects and out the output of the g system)>>series effects loop return to the power amp and speaker(s) ....

is this correct?

That's interesting if correct. I tried downloading the manual to find out but I couldn't access the manual through the TC Electronics web page...

daneswede1

07-29-2005, 12:34 PM

You are correct, any overdrive SHOULD be run through the front door. Well guys, Im getting OFF the band wagon. A good friend of mine who knows how to program the G Force as well as Steve Vai (no shit!) Just offered to sell me his G Force with all the settings done already and seeing how I am a retard with doigital effects management and dont have much patience Im doing it! Hes gonna come over monday and dial it into my BOgner Uberschall. He gets the best sounds ive ever heard (unaffected that is!" Like vai! Ill just buy a MIDI foot controller off of ebay. I saw one with two up - down switchings or whatever and thats the one he said to buy! He is a guru of sound. IMO His tones are at LEAST as good as Vai! No doubt.

Im sure the G System will be great for you guys. I dont need all the extra stuff anywsay like the loops and switching. I already have an amp switcher and I only run two distortion pedals so thats that. For my application, I only want a little delay and reverd at the tail end of my rhythms and a little more at the end of my solos- leads. Other than that. Ill use the flanger - Chorus - Smart Pitch shift - etc maybe 10% of the time. So this is perfect for me! Plus he is selling it to me for a good price. Ill save about $500 bucks doing this. Maybe in the near future ill get a G System! I still want to know how you guys make out and thanks for the thread . It helped me a lot. Everyone in this gear page area is a lot more adept than the amp threads whetre everyone talks abvout fighting and stupid shit.

Thanks guys!

daneswede1

07-29-2005, 12:40 PM

GUitar Center for $1280

daneswede1

07-29-2005, 12:47 PM

Originally posted by daneswede1
GUitar Center for $1280
My new rig will be:
BOGNER UBERSCHALL
BOGNER Ubercab
MARSHALL 2203x 100 wt head w/ loop
MARSHALL Stdrd 1960a cab 75 gts ( I like this cab)Turn it up and it rumbles nice!
1971 Les Paul Custom B Bty (my main baby)
2003 PRS Singlecut w/ birds and a new Snakeskin strap by AF Designs( Chekc um out on Ebay they make nice straps !)bout $120 bucks but worth every dime !
SKB 12 space flight w/ casters
FURMAN AR-15 II Regulator ( A must have )
SENHEISER EW172 Wireless (Never a problem and great for sound check - walk out into the audience for a great soundcheck)
MORLEY ABY - BH 2 wah - VOLUME pedals
BOSS OD 1 Analogman
IBANEZ TS9 Analogman
MONSTER cables
(TC ELECTRONICS G Force already dialed in sweet!!!!!!!!!!!)need a MIDI ftswtch controller now
Wants soon :
MAC G 5 dual pros , etc.
DIGI 002 w/ outboard smixer -Itll be nice to have a teacher for this ! Forget $40k to FullsaiL to learn engineering!

elambo

07-29-2005, 11:43 PM

Originally posted by daneswede1
DIGI 002 w/ outboard smixer -Itll be nice to have a teacher for this ! Forget $40k to FullsaiL to learn engineering!

Few things in music are as important as a good engineer. A VERY underestimated step in the process. An amazing song put to an inexperienced mixer can be death. And these days, vice versa is CERTAINLY true. Sh!t song --> great sound --> gold record.

rkstarr

07-30-2005, 10:21 AM

id like to get one..soon i hope

Stevo57

07-30-2005, 10:30 AM

I offered $1200 to the ebay seller. They declined and countered with $1350. I offered to meet them in the middle if they pick-up the shipping. We'll see where it goes.

apalazzolo

07-30-2005, 12:09 PM

Originally posted by Stevo57
I offered $1200 to the ebay seller. They declined and countered with $1350. I offered to meet them in the middle if they pick-up the shipping. We'll see where it goes.

interesting ... did you mention that you can buy them all day long on the Net for $1349.95?

or better yet ... mention me ....

good luck!

daneswede1

07-30-2005, 11:08 PM

Originally posted by elambo
Few things in music are as important as a good engineer. A VERY underestimated step in the process. An amazing song put to an inexperienced mixer can be death. And these days, vice versa is CERTAINLY true. Sh!t song --> great sound --> gold record.

You are so correct. I started playijng in the mid eighties. Got lucky early with a teacher from G.I.T. Became a Teacher myself three years later (Even though I wasnt ready- Just a quick learn to the shred technique which seemed to dominate the times) Approaching and into the nineties my saong craft slowly took shap. Today I have toured with Milkli Vaniili real singers - stop laughing :) - played with former member of BLack Sabbath which was cool but I learned a hard lesson - Currently Teach - recording a new cd - and still doing it 18 years later. What am I getting at and why the short summation of my music career? Just to say no matter how many things you do musically. Having the technology at your finger tips and having the skill to record your own music and master it well is something that transcends time. It is all up to you to do it. Its not what you know , its who you know that can teach you the ways of the Engineer. To me, At this point in my life. Im more than ready. Have the cash t0o buy the crap to do it. And I know I can and will go farther than i ever could imagine than I did in the past even touring, jamming with big names - big deal I say to that - ITs all about helping YOURSELF!!!!!!!!!!!!!to make it in music - to make it in life

anyway - Im still getting the G Force totally dialed but will spome day acquire a G System. Just rethought it for my current needs

tradarama

07-31-2005, 05:21 PM

Originally posted by apalazzolo
an ebay outfit "audiosycrazy" or somethoing like that is selling them with a "make best offer" option. the ad offers free shipping. my offer of $1250 was declined, but they wrote me to say it would be accepted if i agreed to pay $18 for shipping. i chose not to do it (i am still not convinced it's for me) ...

presumably, that means anyone can offer them $1268 can snag one ... good luck kids!

:dude

I offered them $1250 shipped via paypal and they accepted. With the 1% cash back (yes we're counting every penny), it's 1237.50 shipped (no tax because of the net).

daneswede1

07-31-2005, 09:12 PM

Hey guys- Its Sunday night. I just wanted to say that tomorrow I decide if the G Force that my buddy has dialed in will be mine to buy. Ill see. Its always at first you flip for something but I got to make sure this is right for me. I wrote a post earlier but well see tomorrow. Actually, The only driving factors for me anyway are the that when I get this USED G Force in good condition as far as I know. I do know they are fragile so I will ecxtensilvely chekc it out before purchase. I need to get either a MIDI foot controller with at least 6 switches to ramp my presets up and down. Or maybe Ill just get that little G Minor pedal. It just depends on my needs for live shows.

I think to myself even if I buy the G SYSTEM I will only use maybe one or two patches for each song. 80% of the time its gonna be dynamic delay for a little wet ness mix in my tone .

I hope someone posts a good review about the G System. I did read the previous posts and IN my opinion I think it is a great tool that will solve a lot of issues for a lot of guitarists.

Desiknow

08-01-2005, 06:46 AM

Hey guys,
I just sent TC an support email.
the unit comes default in parallel routing and I would like to have it in semi-parallel routing. so the verb and delay are lot effected by each other. By any chance have you guys had problems getting the system to hold the setting globally. Yes I am doing it like the manual says. :) and I am paying with the global lock the setting it to semi and turning the lock back on...etc almost every possible option but it wont hold globally.
I can get it to hold with a setting.

I have run the update.
Any suggestions.

TimH

08-11-2005, 03:57 PM

I'm curious to hear what people think of the built in boost function. is it nice and clean? does it have any eq options? We JUST got our first one at my store and I'm thinking hard about canning the pedals I just got and getting the G-System.

Also, there is no rotovibe type effect on the G-System as far as I can tell. Now I'm wondering is I can combine the vibrato and the phaser to get me there. Any thoughts?

amplifiedtorock

08-11-2005, 06:55 PM

Just ordered one from Audiosyncrazy -- $1250 shipped, no tax -- ask for John and tell them you saw it on GP and you'll get the same, sweet deal. Nice people, musician's trying to make it happen, same as us.

As far as OD pedals go. Do not hesitate to buy a Klon. You will NOT be disappointed. If you are, you will be able to sell it for a profit, how can you lose? I have two and use them both live. One for clean boost and one as main source of OD. Used with a JCM 800, Pro Reverb or Rambler.

Enjoy!

Originally posted by daneswede1
If $1050 is dealer cost than these G Systems are expensive even to the dealers price! Thasts 40% off only. Well, I guess the $1280 it will be for me then. That is a good price I suppose. Total price will be around $1350. A little better than $1499 and $1399 ive seen on the net. I mgonna go get it tomorrow. Screw it. Gonna take a chance. ITs TC Electronics. I got to thoroughly check the manual cause Im a retard with digital effects but a genius with guitar tone! Cant be good at everything. Its funny because I have close to 40 students where I teach at and 8 of them are also waiting for me to buy the G System to see if they will buy it to. I should get a DIY kit and make a home made overdrive pedal to sell to my students! ID clean up! LOL! Well, I have a BOGNER Uberschall with a loop and a Marshall 2203x with a loop. Im gonna start with the Bogner first. The Marshall is at work and I am bringing it home before we shut down for two weeks on vacation mode. The school re opens mid August. Might as well pull the cab out to. Itll be cramped at the house but two half stacks stuffed in a den will still be fun to mess aroung with the G System. Ill have to rent that warehouse after all. Using the work studio isnt an every day opportunity. ITs a first come basis! And we have 15 music teachers of which 13 gig! Including myself. Its a fight for the rehearsal roomsa in the back!

Well its off to bad. Ill let you guys know how it went with the TC unit this week. I still have to order it at the GC. Oh Guitar Center DUH---GC!! Figured it out! I deciphered it! There are two GCs near my home and they did offer the best price at 1280 so ill do it.
Night tone FREAKS! Keep the tone alive!

PS:
Thinking about getting the following for more overdrive to run thru my Marshall other than my TS9 mod and OD1 mod

LYNCH TIME MACHINE BOOST
KLON CENTAUR ( #1 choice and already called to order 10 week wait approx!!!!!)
SYBIL by RETROMAN
KEELEY COMPRESSER pedal - gonna get this one anyway

amplifiedtorock

08-20-2005, 05:23 PM

I will put this thing through the ringer this weekend with hopes of going live this Thursday at our next show (www.anaura.com).

I will post my comments ASAP using it with a Les Paul into a BFPR.

Any suggestions, comments and concerns are appreciated!

ps -- Audiosyncrazy is a first-rate outfit with the lowest price on these units ($1250 shipped).

tradarama

08-20-2005, 07:25 PM

I got mine from them for $1250 and it's wonderful. I recommended that my friend call the (and ask for John as mentioned here)...John quoted him $1500.....go figure...

daneswede1

08-21-2005, 06:22 AM

Originally posted by amplifiedtorock
I will put this thing through the ringer this weekend with hopes of going live this Thursday at our next show (www.anaura.com).

I will post my comments ASAP using it with a Les Paul into a BFPR.

Any suggestions, comments and concerns are appreciated!

ps -- Audiosyncrazy is a first-rate outfit with the lowest price on these units ($1250 shipped).
Hey everybody! I cnat believe this post is still alive! I get emails every so often when someone here updates it. Well Here is what I did. I ended up with my friends G Force rack unit. I did this for two reasons. THe first and most important is because I am retarded when it comes to dialing in effects and my friend and fellow shredder bud is a friggin genius with rackmount gear. He was running midi synth guitar patches in 1990! Anyway, He sold me his G Force with 11 user presets dialed in for all my main tones. He also uses a JCM 800 but the combo. I figured I would just play it safe and I can always get the G System IF I want it later. Now I am getting a Ground Control MIDI Foot controller and it will basically be the same asthe g system.
As well, I decided I didnt need an overdrive patch or four true bypass loops cause I only run two pedals ( A wah and a TS9 mod)
I am very happy with the G Force it is the best thing I have ever owned ass far as fx units go. Used to own a ALesis Quadraverb back in the days! late 80s early 90's. ANyway you guys are probably all having a blast by now with the G System. Keep posting I am still interested in seeing how this unit sounds and works for you all! Thx for the info anyway thru the past weeks! Chow for now!

jesper

08-23-2005, 04:05 AM

Even in Denmark the thing costs a good 480$ more than in the States, and thats after you have taken the danish sales tax into consideration.

jbird

08-23-2005, 05:14 AM

It would be nice to hear something about utilizing the units potential for different routing capabilities. Especially as it refers to amps with parallel vs. series F/X loops.

Scott Peterson

08-23-2005, 08:52 AM

I am going for one, I can't stand it any longer.

Expect me to get something done and one on the way in about a week or two.

Gotta try this thing. I just gotta.

Mike Dresch

08-23-2005, 10:17 PM

Mine should be here tomorrow. I traded my Koch Multitone straight up for a brand new one from my local dealer. Now I just have to sell a couple of my guitars and put it into a rack with a yet to be acquired Tri Axis and 2:90 and then I am done with my live rig. One button switching and done.

jesper

08-24-2005, 01:21 AM

Originally posted by TimH
I'm curious to hear what people think of the built in boost function. is it nice and clean? does it have any eq options? We JUST got our first one at my store and I'm thinking hard about canning the pedals I just got and getting the G-System.

Also, there is no rotovibe type effect on the G-System as far as I can tell. Now I'm wondering is I can combine the vibrato and the phaser to get me there. Any thoughts?

The boost works like this. you actually take away up to 10 db and then you release for the boost. Should be clean.

The weakness of the system is the lack of a rotovibe/leslieimitator.
We should all e-mail them at
http://www.tcelectronic.com/
and tell them to have it done for a future up-grade.
Youll have to registrer and all that.
Interesting thoughts about the vibrato/phaser combination.
Im curious as well.

journo

08-24-2005, 01:23 AM

Hi,

I was sent a unit from t.c. in Denmark to write a product review for FUZZ (the swedish guitar magazine). I tried it for about a week.

I hooked it up as follows:
Guitar -> G-System input (for filter effects like wah and compression) -> G-System Loops 1-4 (holding Zoom PD-01 Booster, Ibanez Reissue TS-9, Tonebobe Classic and Maxon SD-9) -> G-System Insert Send to amp input -> Amp loop send to G-System Insert Return -> G-System time based effects (like chorus, delay, reverb), G-System EQ and G-System Boost -> G-System Output to Amp loop return. Took me about 4 minutes to hook up.

Main findings are:
G-System DOES NOT degrade my tone when connected this way. I consider myself picky when it comes to this.

Compressor sounds very good and can be found in three varieties. Advanced where you have access to all the parameters you need and Sustaining and Percussive.These to have a limited set of parameters to get you where you want. The names are self explanatory. For funk and country this compressor is really where it's at.

The wah was so much more musical sounding than my stock CryBaby and Vox.

Time based effects as good or better as anything that tc has ever done before. I just love the ducking delays. Smooth. The reverb is just wonderful. The reverb sort of organically mates with the direct signal and make me believe I'm transported to another space. There's a preset called Blues Room which is a small room setting with loads of character. Large halls are also impressive if you want to do the LA 80's clean sound together with chorus, pitchs shifted detune and delay.

Easy of use. I didn't open the owner's manual once until I wanted to program the relay swithches. The manual is OK when you do need it.

The CONCEPT. Yes, the G-System is a great concept. It's nice having the loops and it's even nicer having them programmable. The effects are of exceptional quality and they are easy to program but where the G-System really shines is how it all works together. One step on a switch and I turn off a few G-System effects in the loop while turning a few others on, the compressor before the amp goes off and the wah goes on, the Zoom boost in loop 1 is disconnected and the TubeScreamer in Loop 2 is suddenly in the chain, my amp is switch to it's clean channel and the amp boost is turned off. While I'm in this preset and I want to go solo I either hit the button for Loop 3 with the Tonebone or the button for the G-System Boost.

Flexibility in system design, i.e. how you want to design your rig. Mount it all on a pedalboard and hook it up like I did. The G-System pedal has predrilled M4 holes for this purpose. You want it in a rack system. No problem! Just unscrew the electronics from the pedal and you have a rack unit that you just slip into your rack. All connections are then rackmounted (loops, insert, relays, 9 volt pedal power supply and pwer supply for the G-System. Communication to the pedal is the by CAT-3 cable which also supplies the power to the pedal unit. Left on the floor is the pedal unit with two expression pedal inputs.

When I get the money I will get myself one of these.

Cheers,

Mats N

jesper

08-24-2005, 01:37 AM

Good morning Sweden.
please put the lack of a rotery sim. in your review. That is if you agree of course. Are the price in Sweden as ridicolous as in Denmark. 2.200 $

journo

08-24-2005, 02:17 AM

Originally posted by jesper
Good morning Sweden.
please put the lack of a rotery sim. in your review. That is if you agree of course. Are the price in Sweden as ridicolous as in Denmark. 2.200 $

Good morning neighbour!

The lack of a specific effect may be considered bad by some and not by others. I have stated what's included and if people are offended by a non inclusion of a rotary effect then they can decide if that is a cause for concern.

On the price issue I agree with you totally. App. $2180. Without tax which may be a better comparison point that amounts to $1743. Why a unit is so expensive inside the EU is beyond me. Inside there are not supposed to be any trade fees of any kind. It is my guess that tc electronic is exercising it's right to sell at whatever price they deem is right for their different markets. The US market is decidedly different from many of the european markets. This is due to laws, demographics, spedning habits, general disposable income and other factors. It's still a sad case when you can travel to the US and buy the G-System and come out even. The upside is that you get a vacation included.

Cheers,

Mats N

jesper

08-24-2005, 02:30 AM

The americans pay 1350 street price according to this forum but that probably includes a 5 or 6% import tax. And yes i have picked up McInturff guitars in NYC and had a 1 week in hotel vacation for free. Time is the problem. Have to pick up a copy of your mag one of these days, if I can get in Copenhagen.

Blueser

08-24-2005, 07:17 AM

Has anyone here experienced the horror stories that have reported in the HC reviews section? Knobs falling off, full banks of patches disappearing.

The one thing about this unit that seems suspect is the durability of the foot switches.

Scott Peterson

08-24-2005, 07:24 AM

Fascinating.

This thing is that expensive in the EU? Wow.

FWIW, I am scrambling here to be able to try to afford the thing in the US.

For rotary, which is *very* important to me, I am going to use the new Line 6 Rotary pedal.

For every knock on this G-System, I personally cannot escape that it does *everything* I want once I add what I want into the loops. And with an PC editor coming up shortly; that "pull" towards it becomes irresistable for me at least.

GAS got me.

Scott Peterson

08-24-2005, 07:27 AM

Originally posted by Blueser
Has anyone here experienced the horror stories that have reported in the HC reviews section? Knobs falling off, full banks of patches disappearing.

The one thing about this unit that seems suspect is the durability of the foot switches.

I have read those too, but until folks post their name and an email, I never -EVER- take them seriously. Anonymous reports mean..... nada. IMHO.

jesper

08-24-2005, 07:30 AM

Well all the old EU countries have sales tax between 16-25% I think. But if you take the sales tax off a product produced inside of the EU shouldnt have to more costly than in the US. Ive mailed TC and asked but have surpricingly not recieved an answer. will you put the rotayin the loop of the tc OR IN THE THE EGFFECTS LOOP SOMEHOW?

Blueser

08-24-2005, 07:35 AM

Originally posted by Scott Peterson
I have read those too, but until folks post their name and an email, I never -EVER- take them seriously. Anonymous reports mean..... nada. IMHO.

Yup....I hear ya Scott. It's just that it concerns me that more than one person reported on knobs falling off. If I pay $1500 for an effect unit, it better be completely rock solid!

I have been itching to do a Wet/Dry rig, and I have been tetering back and forth between the G-System, or an Eventide Eclipse with a Midi Switching board. I must say, that at first glance, the G-System appears to be exactly what I'm looking for though.

Can the G-System be run in the effects loop OR in front of the amp?

jesper

08-24-2005, 07:40 AM

read journos review

Play by Tone

08-24-2005, 08:37 AM

Originally posted by Scott Peterson
GAS got me.

So when does your's arrive? ;) I'm looking forward to your review!

Scott Peterson

08-24-2005, 09:13 AM

Originally posted by Play by Tone
So when does your's arrive? ;) I'm looking forward to your review!

I am trying to score one as I type this. Should have something on the way in the next day or two.

I tried the bozos at Audiosync from Ebay and they flushed my $1250 offer. But that isn't so bad; I did not like thier restocking fees in case of return.

Scott Peterson

08-24-2005, 09:19 AM

Originally posted by Blueser
Yup....I hear ya Scott. It's just that it concerns me that more than one person reported on knobs falling off. If I pay $1500 for an effect unit, it better be completely rock solid!

Search internet boards, including HC... nothing. Nobody reporting "knobs falling off" or any of the other stuff you read on those "reviews". One of those "reviews" is from someone that hasn't even tried it out, they just post a "review" about how worried they are about quality. IMHO, in my STRONG opinion, Pffffft to all those "reviews". I'll get my own, with a strong refund/return policy and make up my own mind.

Can the G-System be run in the effects loop OR in front of the amp?

Yes. Marc Cooper from TC told me to my face, and showed me, that he runs his in front of his Koch amp setup... not in the loop. And it sounded great. I am counting on that fact to make the thing work with the Flexi... for now.

Blueser

08-24-2005, 09:26 AM

Originally posted by Scott Peterson
Search internet boards, including HC... nothing. Nobody reporting "knobs falling off" or any of the other stuff you read on those "reviews". One of those "reviews" is from someone that hasn't even tried it out, they just post a "review" about how worried they are about quality. IMHO, in my STRONG opinion, Pffffft to all those "reviews". I'll get my own, with a strong refund/return policy and make up my own mind.

Yes. Marc Cooper from TC told me to my face, and showed me, that he runs his in front of his Koch amp setup... not in the loop. And it sounded great. I am counting on that fact to make the thing work with the Flexi... for now.

Cool. Running it in front of the amp is cool, but what about the time based effects that really need to be run in the loop, like delay, chorus, etc.?

How would you run this thing in a wet dry rig?

Mark Barratt

08-24-2005, 10:27 AM

[QUOTE]Originally posted by journo
[B]Good morning neighbour!

The lack of a specific effect may be considered bad by some and not by others. I have stated what's included and if people are offended by a non inclusion of a rotary effect then they can decide if that is a cause for concern.

On the price issue I agree with you totally. App. $2180. Without tax which may be a better comparison point that amounts to $1743. Why a unit is so expensive inside the EU is beyond me. Inside there are not supposed to be any trade fees of any kind. It is my guess that tc electronic is exercising it's right to sell at whatever price they deem is right for their different markets. The US market is decidedly different from many of the european markets. This is due to laws, demographics, spedning habits, general disposable income and other factors. It's still a sad case when you can travel to the US and buy the G-System and come out even. The upside is that you get a vacation included.

On a slightly off topic point !!
I just bought the TC Vintage Pre-Drive 1 and got it shipped from the U.S. for £100 (yes pounds) less than the price than its available in (rip-off) Brittain !!! -- Get into Europe/join the Euro -- yeah right !!!

Mark.

amplifiedtorock

08-24-2005, 12:46 PM

so far so good. I've had mine for a week now and while I've yet to gig with it, it seems rock solid. I cannot imagine the knobs/switches falling off. The lower two rows are switches only while the top row are dual-function switches AND knobs which control editing parameters, etc. as well as turn things on/off.
These switches feel more like a Lehle box than a regular stompbox switch. Once, I turned it on and there was no output from the mains while the insert send worked fine. I ended up resetting the system and all was fine. It would not have been fine if I had anything saved. This is something to be concerned with. I emailed TC and am waiting to hear back.

I love the sounds in this thing and have only messed with the presets so far! It is very easy to insert pedals into the loops (4+1 for a preamp/efx loop!) and then have them turn on/off within an individual preset. This is a major plus. I really love the boost function which gives nice clean, full-range boost that can drive the front end of an amp if needed. I have not noticed an EQ-able boost but there is a parametric EQ which you can use within individual presets or as a master EQ.
I will say the list of available effects is a bit lacking when it comes to the Rotovibe type of effect. I personally need it to do a Trem-Phaser combination for one of our songs. With a bit of tweaking, it should be possible. Anyone do this? I found a patch with a trem/filter combination that almost does it. I wonder if the updates will contain new sounds or if that is even possible?
btw: the compressor is top notch and very usable.
One thing to mention is that editing this thing is very easy. Unless you need to dig deep into the software menus, you can "hover" around the parameters that NEED to be changed while playing around with the presets and saving new creations. The common parameters are easily accessible by hitting two buttons: edit, than the effect in question. Three parameters pop up with easy knob editing, then hit edit again to return to play. It is a breeze to tweak on the fly. This is huge for me as I do not want to alienate my bandmates while I'm figuring this thing out.
Oh well, back at it. Let's keep this one going until we get it all figured out.

Originally posted by Blueser
Has anyone here experienced the horror stories that have reported in the HC reviews section? Knobs falling off, full banks of patches disappearing.

The one thing about this unit that seems suspect is the durability of the foot switches.

amplifiedtorock

08-24-2005, 01:05 PM

I just got a reply from TC tech support -- less than 24 hours later! Nice to know the presets are preserved when doing a system reset.

see below:

re: g system outputs stopped working...

HI Thad,
What I would like to suggest is resetiing the units I/O Utlities. We have had soem questions about issues such as yours. Reseting has defined and resolved the issue. Certain quick button presses while in tuner or bypass mode have resulted in loss of output. here is the procedure below. Please try and let us know if you need further assistance. P/S/ we are working on a newer software update still, to be soon released. Thanks

Please select edit. go to the UTLITY MENU. NOw with that menu scroll until you see CLEARS SYSTEM. (this will not erase presets, only global features) now press enter. Once reset power off then power on the unit. See if this works.

Scott Peterson

08-24-2005, 03:38 PM

I have one on the way due here Friday this week. Too freaking cool. I can't wait!

BTW, kudos to Sweetwater for being straight up with me on price and doing a good deal; mucho coolness.

Me so happy! Now to get me a Dumbleator type of buffered loop ala Rodenberg's Flexloop3D so I pop this in the loop (for timebased effects) of the Flexi in the near future.... (I"ll be using it in completely front of the Flexi or in the in the front of and in the VHT's loop for now).

GAS rules the day... again. Sigh.

amplifiedtorock

08-24-2005, 08:52 PM

Originally posted by Scott Peterson
I have one on the way due here Friday this week. Too freaking cool. I can't wait!

BTW, kudos to Sweetwater for being straight up with me on price and doing a good deal; mucho coolness.

Me so happy! Now to get me a Dumbleator type of buffered loop ala Rodenberg's Flexloop3D so I pop this in the loop (for timebased effects) of the Flexi in the near future.... (I"ll be using it in completely front of the Flexi or in the in the front of and in the VHT's loop for now).

GAS rules the day... again. Sigh.

see what happens!~
:dude

care to divulge the price...

jesper

08-25-2005, 03:07 AM

On a slightly off topic point !!
I just bought the TC Vintage Pre-Drive 1 and got it shipped from the U.S. for £100 (yes pounds) less than the price than its available in (rip-off) Brittain !!! -- Get into Europe/join the Euro -- yeah right !!!

Mark. [/B][/QUOTE]

Like In Britain we dont have the Euro in either Denmark or Sweden. Ive done the same thing with small pedals but if you do it with big packages, chances are youll get busted by the customs.

Rid

08-25-2005, 03:12 AM

Ja også bliver det desværre ski' dyrt så...suk
Give us some free market here eh??
Lol and bring down shipping costs.
:D

BountyHuntr

08-25-2005, 07:32 AM

I've had mine now going on 2 months w/o any problems. It has been just great. I use 4 loops which requires reprogramming one of the switches for my needs to (on the fly) use loop 4. I have a Keeley Comp in Loop 4 so I use the Comp switch programmed as Loop 4. The Boost switch is not located where I like so I moved it to Preset 5 and Visa versa... It's a breeze.

I agree, more effects should be in it but then there's more than enough for me. One feature that TC needs to work on is calibrations for Volume Pedals... mine is an Ernie Ball and though it calibrates it, it does so in a way which makes the pedal useless... push off(heel) and the distance is extremely short rendering 80% of the pedal's distance not useable... I'm sure an update will correct that though, and I actually use the guitar's volume 99% of the time anyway?!!?

If it lasts, it will be one of the best investments I've made. If I want more effects, then I'll rack the GSystem unit and get the Fireworx or something else, but control it with the GS pedalboard.

Mark Barratt

08-25-2005, 09:04 AM

Originally posted by jesper
On a slightly off topic point !!
I just bought the TC Vintage Pre-Drive 1 and got it shipped from the U.S. for £100 (yes pounds) less than the price than its available in (rip-off) Brittain !!! -- Get into Europe/join the Euro -- yeah right !!!

Mark.

Like In Britain we dont have the Euro in either Denmark or Sweden. Ive done the same thing with small pedals but if you do it with big packages, chances are youll get busted by the customs. [/B][/QUOTE]

In the U.K. you can expect to pay customs charges on any item over $25 ---- IF they decide to pick your package out of the pile.
-- I have had pedals sent to me from the U.S many times and on only a few occasions have had to pay customs tax. It is all down to if the seller makes an open/honest declaration of value on the visible customs sticker too. They will charge you even on import CD'sif there is more than $25 value declared. What annoys everyone in England is the prices/availability of FX pedals or CD's etc. These things ARE cheaper overseas. In certain countries prices are kept high because they can get away with it !!

jesper

08-25-2005, 10:37 AM

Hi Mark
We have a 25% sales tax in Scandinavia. When i lived in England in 1990 yours was like 10% and now I believe its like 16%. But this doesnt explain the difference with the ridicolous high priced guitar stuff in Europe. Be it with or without Euros. Anyway Im off to a G-system clinic and Im exited after reading the fine reviews in this thread. Maybe our customs are more lazy than yours. Small packages usually stays in the piles. Ive recieved them from Australia, the US and actually from Brazil as well
Cheers

Mark Barratt

08-25-2005, 10:53 AM

Originally posted by jesper
Hi Mark
We have a 25% sales tax in Scandinavia. When i lived in England in 1990 yours was like 10% and now I believe its like 16%. But this doesnt explain the difference with the ridicolous high priced guitar stuff in Europe. Be it with or without Euros. Anyway Im off to a G-system clinic and Im exited after reading the fine reviews in this thread. Maybe our customs are more lazy than yours. Small packages usually stays in the piles. Ive recieved them from Australia, the US and actually from Brazil as well
Cheers

Jesper,
If you get a chance to try one or talk to a TC Electronics guy ask them how (or get them to show you how) the Speaker Simulation works on the VPD1 --- if they are using this pedal with the G System. I am using the pedal only (as a overdrive/boost)
I think i have a problem with the one i got from the U.S. -- i.e. it won't engage properly. I have been advised to send it back to the dealer (but that is complicated) I got it off Musictoyz but they are not over keen in replying to my e-mails.
Everything else is fine with my pedal -- its just the SKR/SIM button.
Best Wishes,
Mark.

journo

08-25-2005, 12:54 PM

Originally posted by Mark Barratt
Jesper,
If you get a chance to try one or talk to a TC Electronics guy ask them how (or get them to show you how) the Speaker Simulation works on the VPD1 --- if they are using this pedal with the G System. I am using the pedal only (as a overdrive/boost)
I think i have a problem with the one i got from the U.S. -- i.e. it won't engage properly. I have been advised to send it back to the dealer (but that is complicated) I got it off Musictoyz but they are not over keen in replying to my e-mails.
Everything else is fine with my pedal -- its just the SKR/SIM button.
Best Wishes,
Mark.

Hi Mark,

Please allow me to answer your question.
tc also sent me the VPD1 for review and I had a similar problem with engaging the speaker sim.
What I did was take a needle and push the button inside the hole. tc has done it this way in order for people not to activate the speaker sim while playing. It's very easy. Just use the needle.

One cool thing about that speaker sim is that it's active even though the VPD1 is in bypass and can serve as a speaker sim for other pedals. I tried using a Maxon SD-9 direct into my mixer using the VPD1 this way and while it wasn't as good as some other solutions it does serve the purpose quite well.

Hope this helps!

Cheers,

Mats N

amplifiedtorock

08-25-2005, 01:07 PM

which Ernie Ball volume pedal are you using? More specifically, which potentiometer is in it? The TC forum recommends a 6166. I heard the Ernie Ball Mini (has a 250K ohm pot) will not work that well...
I've got a Ernie Ball Mini, Roland EV-5 and a Moogerfooger expression pedal. I'll try them all out soon and see how they work...

Originally posted by BountyHuntr
I've had mine now going on 2 months w/o any problems. It has been just great. I use 4 loops which requires reprogramming one of the switches for my needs to (on the fly) use loop 4. I have a Keeley Comp in Loop 4 so I use the Comp switch programmed as Loop 4. The Boost switch is not located where I like so I moved it to Preset 5 and Visa versa... It's a breeze.

I agree, more effects should be in it but then there's more than enough for me. One feature that TC needs to work on is calibrations for Volume Pedals... mine is an Ernie Ball and though it calibrates it, it does so in a way which makes the pedal useless... push off(heel) and the distance is extremely short rendering 80% of the pedal's distance not useable... I'm sure an update will correct that though, and I actually use the guitar's volume 99% of the time anyway?!!?

If it lasts, it will be one of the best investments I've made. If I want more effects, then I'll rack the GSystem unit and get the Fireworx or something else, but control it with the GS pedalboard.

BountyHuntr

08-25-2005, 01:31 PM

which Ernie Ball volume pedal are you using? More specifically, which potentiometer is in it? The TC forum recommends a 6166.

I have the SW update installed (which btw was a breeze to do) and actually I have the 6166. It does have the 250K pot, so go figure. I've calibrated and recalibrated and here's what happens... heel down is 0%, toe down is 100%, 50% is about 3/8" to 1/2" from toe down. You just can't usefully control the volume moving the pedal only 3/8" to 1/2" going from 50% to 100% volume.

I hadn't heard anything about the potentiometer issue... should be changeable to a ???K easy enough I'd think, if that's what it takes?!

amplifiedtorock

08-25-2005, 01:48 PM

have you tried both of the switch positions (the little hidden switch under the toe)? Hmmm. I've emailed TC for support on this one.

Originally posted by BountyHuntr
which Ernie Ball volume pedal are you using? More specifically, which potentiometer is in it? The TC forum recommends a 6166.

I have the SW update installed (which btw was a breeze to do) and actually I have the 6166. It does have the 250K pot, so go figure. I've calibrated and recalibrated and here's what happens... heel down is 0%, toe down is 100%, 50% is about 3/8" to 1/2" from toe down. You just can't usefully control the volume moving the pedal only 3/8" to 1/2" going from 50% to 100% volume.

I hadn't heard anything about the potentiometer issue... should be changeable to a ???K easy enough I'd think, if that's what it takes?!

Scott Peterson

08-25-2005, 01:48 PM

What's the URL to the TC Forum?

amplifiedtorock

08-25-2005, 01:55 PM

sorry, it's not a forum like this one but a place where questions are answered. I had to register to submit. Some good info though...

http://tcsupport.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/tcsupport.cfg/php/enduser/std_alp.php?p_sid=pdz1cfCh&p_page=1&p_prod_lvl1=1&p_prod_lvl2=158&p_scf_access_level_id=%7Euser_access%7E&p_cat_lvl1=&p_cat_lvl2=&p_search_text=&p_new_search=1&p_search_type=search_nl

Originally posted by Scott Peterson
What's the URL to the TC Forum?

Mark Barratt

08-25-2005, 03:59 PM

Originally posted by journo
Hi Mark,

Please allow me to answer your question.
tc also sent me the VPD1 for review and I had a similar problem with engaging the speaker sim.
What I did was take a needle and push the button inside the hole. tc has done it this way in order for people not to activate the speaker sim while playing. It's very easy. Just use the needle.

One cool thing about that speaker sim is that it's active even though the VPD1 is in bypass and can serve as a speaker sim for other pedals. I tried using a Maxon SD-9 direct into my mixer using the VPD1 this way and while it wasn't as good as some other solutions it does serve the purpose quite well.

Hope this helps!

Cheers,

Mats N

Thanks Mats,
I'll go and try it again -- though i did push it gently with a ball point pen and although the green light "lit up" straight away, as soon as i released any pressure it "went off" again, --- it did not seem to want to stay on/activated. I wasn't sure how hard i should push it !!
I have several TC pedals from 15 years ago plus a G Force and i've never had any problems with any of them so i hope i haven't got a bad one. I'll have another go at it.
Cheers,
Mark.

Mark Barratt

08-25-2005, 05:03 PM

Originally posted by Mark Barratt
Thanks Mats,
I'll go and try it again -- though i did push it gently with a ball point pen and although the green light "lit up" straight away, as soon as i released any pressure it "went off" again, --- it did not seem to want to stay on/activated. I wasn't sure how hard i should push it !!
I have several TC pedals from 15 years ago plus a G Force and i've never had any problems with any of them so i hope i haven't got a bad one. I'll have another go at it.
Cheers,
Mark.

YIPEEE !!! -- it works.
Thanks Mats,
Your suggestion of a needle to activate the switch was perfect.
I wonder why TC didn't mention that in the manual.
Thanks again,
Mark.

journo

08-26-2005, 06:17 AM

Originally posted by Mark Barratt
YIPEEE !!! -- it works.
Thanks Mats,
Your suggestion of a needle to activate the switch was perfect.
I wonder why TC didn't mention that in the manual.
Thanks again,
Mark.

Hi Mark,

You're welcome! Glad I could help.

I also tried a ball point I had lying around with the same result as you.
tc usually have good manuals but the VPD1 manual was a bit disappointing in some areas. This being one.

So how do you like the pedal?
And how do you like the speaker sim?

Cheers,

Mats N

jesper

08-26-2005, 07:13 AM

I went to a G-system clinic yesterday with a brilliant young guitarist hired by TC. More about that later. I was told the reason
The system doesnt have a Rotery/vibe effect is they take up to much computer power and cant be made up to the TC standard. I remember Rocktron makes a multieffect and you can activate a rotery mode that takes over all of the computers power and hence use none of the other effects. I sugested this to TC. The vintage phaser did a very good A/B´ed to the vibe on a Captain Coconut. New upgrades are on the way. Its a very impressive machine. the delays are excelent especially the tape sim.
The boost, the manegement of amp-channels, pre-amp pedals, the noise gate, the wahs. Wow. Dont know much about flangers and choruses but the reverbs and the on the fly manegement wow. If they could just put a rotery into ithe darn thing I'll get one immidiately. Half the modulation Im after is the rotery.

Mark Barratt

08-26-2005, 03:04 PM

Originally posted by journo
Hi Mark,

You're welcome! Glad I could help.

I also tried a ball point I had lying around with the same result as you.
tc usually have good manuals but the VPD1 manual was a bit disappointing in some areas. This being one.

So how do you like the pedal?
And how do you like the speaker sim?

Cheers,

Mats N

Hi Mats,

I spent a couple of hours today giving it a good run through, and so far, so good.
I'm not bananas about the mid-boost option, can't quite get it to sound right for my set-up. It sounds a bit "boxie" through my current gear. The chain of command is ----------
Guitar - Octron - Dejavibe - VPD1 - G Force - Marshall JMP 100 -- Mesa Boogie 4X12

The top boost option i'm not using at the moment -- just don't need to.
The VPD1 is real quiet (as is all TC gear) which is essential and
the unit is real easy to balance between the clean sound and OD/Boost. I'm still chopping and changing between SPR/SIM being on or off -- they both sound good.
I've never tried one but i wonder if this unit is the TC version of the TIM pedal that everyone on this site raves about.

The OD does (i think) sound a bit like my TC Booster/Line Driver which i got 15 years ago. Tons of front-end sustain.
I'm trying to juggle a bit more bass response out of the VPD1.
It does give you the (non-MV) vintage "plexie" marshall type of sound ( "Blow by Blow " era Jeff Beck, Billy Gibbons circa "Tres Hombres", Snuffy Walden from "Stray Dog" ) and very easily too !!!
All in all its a keeper but i do tend to change my Distortion/OD pedals on my board from time to time depending on what i need.
I can't see myself selling it though.
Its a class pedal.
Should be good in tandem with the G System.

Cheers,
Mark.

amplifiedtorock

08-26-2005, 04:15 PM

Originally posted by BountyHuntr
which Ernie Ball volume pedal are you using? More specifically, which potentiometer is in it? The TC forum recommends a 6166.

I have the SW update installed (which btw was a breeze to do) and actually I have the 6166. It does have the 250K pot, so go figure. I've calibrated and recalibrated and here's what happens... heel down is 0%, toe down is 100%, 50% is about 3/8" to 1/2" from toe down. You just can't usefully control the volume moving the pedal only 3/8" to 1/2" going from 50% to 100% volume.

I hadn't heard anything about the potentiometer issue... should be changeable to a ???K easy enough I'd think, if that's what it takes?!

Here is what I received from TC tech support:

Thanks for the link, I wil monitor it and sometimes join it.

The Ernie Ball 6166 recommendation was given to me by R&D before we launched the product and before I tested it. So it has been successfully tested .
However I have the same problem as you with this software version 1.02, and I have decided to remove the recommendation for now, until it is fixed. I have already written the problem in the bug list two weeks ago and I know R&D is looking into it.

From my tests, pedals with a lower impedance (around 50 K) have a better response, but I suggest you wait until we release a new software (in some weeks) before doing anything. Since the 6166 is a very nice quality pedal, we might come with a solution for that.

Mike Dresch

08-26-2005, 04:31 PM

Originally posted by amplifiedtorock
Here is what I received from TC tech support:

Thanks for the link, I wil monitor it and sometimes join it.

The Ernie Ball 6166 recommendation was given to me by R&D before we launched the product and before I tested it. So it has been successfully tested .
However I have the same problem as you with this software version 1.02, and I have decided to remove the recommendation for now, until it is fixed. I have already written the problem in the bug list two weeks ago and I know R&D is looking into it.

From my tests, pedals with a lower impedance (around 50 K) have a better response, but I suggest you wait until we release a new software (in some weeks) before doing anything. Since the 6166 is a very nice quality pedal, we might come with a solution for that.

What type of cable are you using to hook up the 6166? Ring/Tip/Sleeve "Y" cable?

Mike Dresch

08-26-2005, 09:53 PM

Nevermind, I figured it out..... :)

amplifiedtorock

08-26-2005, 09:57 PM

Originally posted by Mike Dresch
Nevermind, I figured it out..... :)

...meaning you got the 6166 to work? Which cable are you using...
I use a regular patch cable normally:confused:

Scott Peterson

08-27-2005, 07:14 AM

I am using the Vox volume pedal; you need to use a TRS 1/4 split out to two mono 1/4". Works great.

I just got my G-System yesterday. Fantastic looking monster. The sounds are great, but I have a LOT to understand with it.

FWIW - the straight up wah sound, with the aforementioned Vox volume pedal, is jaw droppingly good. I am exceptionally impressed with everything so far. I am building up my rig around it now, then will get into sounds/programming and such.

Mike Dresch

08-27-2005, 07:31 AM

Originally posted by amplifiedtorock
...meaning you got the 6166 to work? Which cable are you using...
I use a regular patch cable normally:confused:

I am just using a normal patch cable coming from the out of my 6166 for the expression pedal and the out of my Ernie Ball Vp Jr. for the global volume. Everything works just lovely.

So far, I like most of the sounds, although the delays aren't really blowing me away just yet. I am so used to the sound of digital delays like my Boss DD-3 or DD-6 that is basically, the same sound as my input sound. No matter what I set the low pass filter at on the delays, it still sounds like it rolls off some of the high end. I'm probably just going to have to get used to that.

Did anyone notice a slight loss in volume going to the amp? My amp doesn't seem as punchy as it used to sound and I'm having to run more pre amp gain to get the close to the same tones I had before. That kind of bothers me as well as some of the additional noise I have noticed when I switched to the clean channel running chorus and delay.

Can the boost function actually go above 0db or do you have to set the normal patches below 0db and set the boost at 0db. If so, it serves no purpose for me and I'll just continue to use my overdrive pedal in loop 1 where it sounds great. The loops on this thing sound really good. I have my Rotovibe in loop 2 and I don't remember it ever sounding so good.

Overall, I like it and need to do somemore digging to really bring out the best in this unit. I don't think I'll be able to get it completely dialed in until I get my Triaxis/2:90 combo. Until then, I'll keep plugging away and reading the manual.

One more question though, do you guys know if you can choose the routing of effects or does the CPU automatically choose front end or effects loop for various effects?

Scott Peterson

08-27-2005, 07:46 AM

Originally posted by Mike Dresch
One more question though, do you guys know if you can choose the routing of effects or does the CPU automatically choose front end or effects loop for various effects?

I asked Marc Cooper this at NAMM and was told it is indeed automatic. You can't alter it beyond the serial/parallel/semi-parallel.

Mike Dresch

08-27-2005, 08:14 AM

Cool, thanks Scott!

Semi Parallel looks pretty promising, I might have to try that one, if I'm not already! :D

Scott Peterson

08-28-2005, 09:49 AM

I am starting to get a grip on this piece of gear; and for my needs I am really liking it.

I am not much of an effects guy, but I know what I want and it is indeed in the G-System. The fact that I can use it to trigger the relays on my Flexi and the Axess CFX4 to trigger my VHT is sweet. Having the analog loops is KILLER. Having the wah (my biggest worry about it) sound so good is utterly satisfying.

One cable back to the rack? Priceless.

The foot controller is gorgeous. Just the design of it, the look and the function of the footswitches is brilliant.

Tonewise, I have to dig into the thing more. I am impressed far more than I thought I'd be with the compressor. Simple and sounds great. The tape delay sounds pretty good to me, but at the most I use maybe a 3% wet delay at any given time; and never use reverb or delay most of the time. So that isn't an issue for me.

The chorus + Pitch sounds pretty good to me; and the ability to tap tempo it in sync with the music is too cool. I got spoiled with the XT Live on that and really like it.

The Boost function works. Well. Utterly priceless.

Gotta dig into the phaser more, though it isn't bad. Haven't had time to mess with whammy and the formant stuff yet.

I plan on getting the L6 Rotomachine for my Leslie jones, so I'll excuse TC on that.

It is a simple elegant all-in-one no-brainer piece of kit for me. Dig it man.

I am not happy I can't use it in the loop at all with my Flexi, but that is an issue with the Flexi loop and not TC. I am happy it sounds really good in front of the Flexi though, so for now all is cool. I am interested in the Rodenberg PreFlex3D but need time to raise $$$. The Rodenberg would allow me to use it in the loop, but $400 shipped is $400. Gotta think about that.

The biggest benefit is that I can take my one simple rig and play country, funk, rock or anything I want. With one rig. Anything I would need or ask for is there. One amp, one 112 cab, one small 6 space SKB rack and the G-System controller. All my analog pedals and nothing left wanting.

Cool.

Orren

08-28-2005, 10:18 AM

Originally posted by Scott Peterson
I asked Marc Cooper this at NAMM and was told it is indeed automatic. You can't alter [...the order of effects...] beyond the serial/parallel/semi-parallel.

That is indeed a bit of a letdown. It would be great if it had the sort of "any block in any order" features of some other multi-effects. Hopefully, that's one of them future software updatable features...

BTW--you mentiona problem with the Flexi FX loop/G-System. What is the problem?

Just to verify, do you think something like this could work with your VHT (or another tube amp with compatible loop) and the G-System:

1) Guitar into G-System
2) --> G-System compressor/boost/loop FX <--
3) G-System AMP/INSERT SEND to VHT GUITAR INPUT
4) VHT LOOP SEND to G-System AMP INSERT RETURN
5) --> G-System modulation/delay fx <--
6) G-system MAIN OUT to VHT LOOP RETURN

--> End result, G-System front end effects and pedal loops come before the amp, mod/delay effects are in the loop, and everything comes out of your VHT speaker.

Does that sound doable with the G-System as is?

Thanks,
Orren

amplifiedtorock

08-28-2005, 12:20 PM

Originally posted by Orren
That is indeed a bit of a letdown. It would be great if it had the sort of "any block in any order" features of some other multi-effects. Hopefully, that's one of them future software updatable features...

BTW--you mentiona problem with the Flexi FX loop/G-System. What is the problem?

Just to verify, do you think something like this could work with your VHT (or another tube amp with compatible loop) and the G-System:

1) Guitar into G-System
2) --> G-System compressor/boost/loop FX <--
3) G-System AMP/INSERT SEND to VHT GUITAR INPUT
4) VHT LOOP SEND to G-System AMP INSERT RETURN
5) --> G-System modulation/delay fx <--
6) G-system MAIN OUT to VHT LOOP RETURN

--> End result, G-System front end effects and pedal loops come before the amp, mod/delay effects are in the loop, and everything comes out of your VHT speaker.

Does that sound doable with the G-System as is?

Thanks,
Orren

That should work fine with most amps with an fx loop. I gather Scott's problem is more complex.

btw:
re: 2) --> G-System compressor/BOOST/loop FX <--

In the G-System's case, the Filter and Compressor both run before the G-system pedal loops and before the Insert loop (for preamp) and subsequently into the front end of the amp. Meanwhile the tuner, noise gate, BOOST and all other fx are after the Insert/preamp return (see page 24 and 33 in the manual).

Scott Peterson

08-28-2005, 12:40 PM

Originally posted by amplifiedtorock
That should work fine with most amps with an fx loop. I gather Scott's problem is more complex.

btw:
re: 2) --> G-System compressor/BOOST/loop FX <--

In the G-System's case, the Filter and Compressor both run before the G-system pedal loops and before the Insert loop (for preamp) and subsequently into the front end of the amp. Meanwhile the tuner, noise gate, BOOST and all other fx are after the Insert/preamp return (see page 24 and 33 in the manual).

What he says.

The problem with the Flexi's loop is level - the levels from the Flexi are line level - +4db. Too hot to use; that is by design from THD for the tone.

I need some sort of loop buffer; hence the Rodenberg or something like it. Time will tell (along with my pocketbook).

Orren

08-28-2005, 12:55 PM

Originally posted by amplifiedtorock
btw:
re: 2) --> G-System compressor/BOOST/loop FX <--

In the G-System's case, the Filter and Compressor both run before the G-system pedal loops and before the Insert loop (for preamp) and subsequently into the front end of the amp. Meanwhile the tuner, noise gate, BOOST and all other fx are after the Insert/preamp return (see page 24 and 33 in the manual).

Great, thanks for the heads up!

Speaking of the the G-System information available online, I couldn't find in the specifications available at http://www.tcelectronic.com/Default.asp?Id=6055 any clue that the AD/DA was 24-bit/96kHz.

The marketing and demo information seemed to say that it *was* 24/96 (see the "effects pre & post" page of the G-System mini-site). In fact, the only sample rate information available on the tech page listed above is that the SPDIF output is 24-bit/44.1 kHz.

Can anyone verify that 1) the AD/DA of the G-System is 24-bit/96kHz and 2) that the internal sample rate is 96 kHz?

Thanks,
Orren

Orren

08-28-2005, 12:59 PM

Originally posted by Scott Peterson
The problem with the Flexi's loop is level - the levels from the Flexi are line level - +4db. Too hot to use; that is by design from THD for the tone.

Ah, ok. I see what you mean by "problem." I did know the Flexi's loop was line level only--in fact, if you download the Flexi manual from univalve.net, I wrote it. :)

I didn't know that the G-System was not capable of operating at line level.

I also wish the Flexi's loop was more, well, flexible. ;) But at the same time, I think it's a serious oversight on TCE's part to note have the Insert send/return be both instrument and line level. Ideally, everything should be able to handle both.

Orren

amplifiedtorock

08-28-2005, 02:27 PM

Originally posted by Orren
Ah, ok. I see what you mean by "problem." I did know the Flexi's loop was line level only--in fact, if you download the Flexi manual from univalve.net, I wrote it. :)

I didn't know that the G-System was not capable of operating at line level.

I also wish the Flexi's loop was more, well, flexible. ;) But at the same time, I think it's a serious oversight on TCE's part to note have the Insert send/return be both instrument and line level. Ideally, everything should be able to handle both.

Orren

hmmmm....but if the Flexi's loop is too 'hot' for the G-System's insert return (forgive my ignorance of "line" vs. "instrument" levels), wouldn't you be able to adjust the "loop level" or "loop headroom" parameter to compensate (p.36-37)?

Scott Peterson

08-28-2005, 04:22 PM

It works, but it sounds like poo. Andy Marshall warned me that it would not work well; he was right.

amplifiedtorock

08-28-2005, 04:39 PM

I just wanted to mention how stoked I am (and in the green)!

Since I've been able to program the G-System to reproduce everything (and much more!) that I coax out of my current pedal board tap-dance routine, I have decided to dismantle the behemoth pedal-board that I've gigged with for the last year. I can't host a pic so I'll describe what is being replaced with the associated street price:

1) 2 x Voodoo Labs Pedal Power II -- $150 x2 = $300
2) 3 x George L's Pedal Kits -- $50 x3 = $150
3) Peterson Strobostomp Tuner -- $150
4) Boss LS-2 Line Switcher -- $50
5) Loopmaster Triple Looper -- $100

$750!!! And that doesn't even include:

6) Line 6 DL4 (see ya!) -- $175
7) Boss RV5 -- $100
8) Boss PS5 -- $100
9) MXR Phase 90 -- $40
10) Dano Grilled Cheese Trem -- $25
11) Catalinbread SCP Booster -- $100

another $540 -- geez, that's more than the $1250 I spent on the G System. And notice (I'm sure you already did) that those were mostly second-tier effects (my usable, gigging, semi-disposable effects) which sound OK at the gig but always left me feeling there was something to be desired with the overall tone of each effect. Now, I can have the best of both worlds (funtionality and quality effects) for live, rehearsal, home and (with a speaker sim) recording! Much less the types of program changes and switching NOW available to me on the fly! I won't even try to estimate all of the other pedals I use at home for practice and recording that this thing will ultimately replace but figured I'd start with the live rig.

And finally, I gotta be honest. This is digital gear.
In the start (maybe always) I will have a back-up mini-fx board with me for gigs. Just the essentials in case the unmentionable happens. Probably should've always had a back-up anyways.

Ok, re-assembly time...

:dude

JZWest

08-28-2005, 09:20 PM

Its difficult to tell, but is there a "wet dry wet" set of outputs with the G system?

I would need to send stereo effects to 2 different amps and route a through/dry signal to a third amp.

Scott Peterson

08-28-2005, 09:37 PM

They have a diagram of a wet/dry setup in the manual. You can download it from the "Download" section of the G-System "Mini-site" (link off the main TC site).

journo

08-29-2005, 02:02 AM

Originally posted by amplifiedtorock
Now, I can have the best of both worlds (funtionality and quality effects) for live, rehearsal, home and (with a speaker sim) recording!

Hi,

What kind of speaker sim are you using?
Can you post any clip with it?

Thanks!

Mats N

85db

08-29-2005, 03:01 AM

I have three questions about G-System:

1. How would it integrate with the stereo effect pedals?

2. Is the signal path 100% analog? Where does it cross into digital and returns back to analog? I really don't want the signal after my analog pedals to be A/D'ed and then D/A'ed back before it arrives at the input of my amp.

3. I'm currently using two amps in stereo for clean, and one for overdriven. I'd like to be able to switch between the following modes:
A. Two clean amps in stereo.
B. Overdriven amp is dry (distortion), two clean amps are wet (effects).
Can this be done?

Scott Peterson

08-29-2005, 06:25 AM

Originally posted by 85db
I have three questions about G-System:

1. How would it integrate with the stereo effect pedals?

2. Is the signal path 100% analog? Where does it cross into digital and returns back to analog? I really don't want the signal after my analog pedals to be A/D'ed and then D/A'ed back before it arrives at the input of my amp.

3. I'm currently using two amps in stereo for clean, and one for overdriven. I'd like to be able to switch between the following modes:
A. Two clean amps in stereo.
B. Overdriven amp is dry (distortion), two clean amps are wet (effects).
Can this be done?

I am going to try this, but don't take my answers as law.

1. I don't thing you can use stereo effect pedals in the 4 analog loops. They are send/recieve only; no stereo.

2. No. You go through A/D before the filter/comp then D/A before the analog loops; then A/D before the Mod/Pitch/Delay/Reverb.... then D/A back to your power amp. FWIW, and for all the sweeping fear this sounds bad, it sounds fantastic once you get your levels correct throughout the chain. Zero digital artifacting. Use your own ears and hear it before you sweepingly damn it. This is a very good sounding unit; honest.

3. Yes to all.

jesper

08-29-2005, 06:56 AM

After having heard the darn thing im slowly giving in and i think ill order one even though it doesnt come with a rotery/vibe thing. Scott what kind of gizmo do you need to have it changing the channels of your VHT and what kind of leads? I will sugest to TC to do a rotery/vibe thing the same way Rocktron did theirs as well as a volume-pedal you can mount on the side of the System instead of the sidepanels.

Scott Peterson

08-29-2005, 06:59 AM

Originally posted by jesper
After having heard the darn thing im slowly giving in and i think ill order one even though i doesnt have a rotery/vibe thing. Scott what kind of gizmo do you need to have it changing the channels of your VHT and what kind of leads? I will sugest to TC to do an rotery/vibe thing the same way Rocktron did theirs as well as a volume-pedal you can mount on the side of the System instead of the sidepanels.

The Axess Electronics CFX-4; you order it with a custom cable for your VHT (or other amps). It can control up to 4 switching functions triggered by midi. Utterly brilliantly simple piece. Find Mario at http://www.axess-electronics.com/

journo

08-29-2005, 07:43 AM

Originally posted by jesper
After having heard the darn thing im slowly giving in and i think ill order one even though it doesnt come with a rotery/vibe thing. Scott what kind of gizmo do you need to have it changing the channels of your VHT and what kind of leads? I will sugest to TC to do a rotery/vibe thing the same way Rocktron did theirs as well as a volume-pedal you can mount on the side of the System instead of the sidepanels.

Hi Jesper and Scott,

Sorry if I butt into your conversation.
When I reviewed the G-System I used the relay switches on the G-System to change channels on my amp (Traynor YCV-40). Using one stereo cable each for the amp and the VPD1 I could get the G-System to change channels on the amp, activate the boost on my amp, bypass the VPD1 and activate the boost on the VPD1. All independently and programmable.

My advise is to try this before shelling out extra money on a function that you may already have.

Good luck!

Mats N

Scott Peterson

08-29-2005, 07:47 AM

Originally posted by journo
Hi Jesper and Scott,

Sorry if I butt into your conversation.
When I reviewed the G-System I used the relay switches on the G-System to change channels on my amp (Traynor YCV-40). Using one stereo cable each for the amp and the VPD1 I could get the G-System to change channels on the amp, activate the boost on my amp, bypass the VPD1 and activate the boost on the VPD1. All independently and programmable.

My advise is to try this before shelling out extra money on a function that you may already have.

Good luck!

Mats N

Mats, you aren't butting in!

The VHT uses a special DIN cable with its own footswitch; the Axess mirrors it for the CFX; you can use the relays on the G-System, but need the cable to interface the VHT. I have owned the CFX for a while, so it is easier for me to just use it.

jesper

08-29-2005, 07:59 AM

Im not sure if I understand this correct but Ill have someone making me a stereo cable with a jack for the G-system and a DIN for the Amp and then I can use one relay to switch channels and boost my Pittbull 45.

85db

08-29-2005, 09:10 AM

3. Yes to all.

So I could hook up my three amps and switch between the two modes described above just by stepping on the unit with my foot? If so, this alone is definitely worth many hundreds of dollars. This could be the ticket to the pro-level live setup on a budget.

No, I obviously can't bash the converters without hearing them. The reason I asked about the analog/digital path is because some of us spend serious bucks on the signal path (expensive cables, line drivers, impedance converters, "drag" controls, avoidance of digital effects, etc.) in a desire to get the most tone out of what we have. This makes me wonder if people hear any signal degradation with G-System. Few years back when I tried G-Major and G-Force I thought they sounded too digital and cold and didn't want one in my setup.

Scott Peterson

08-29-2005, 09:15 AM

Originally posted by 85db
Few years back when I tried G-Major and G-Force I thought they sounded too digital and cold and didn't want one in my setup.

I hear that loud and clear. This was a MAJOR consideration with me; it doesn't sound hashy/cold/digital to me at all. That is a remarkable thing.

85db

08-29-2005, 09:25 AM

Originally posted by Scott Peterson
I hear that loud and clear. This was a MAJOR consideration with me; it doesn't sound hashy/cold/digital to me at all. That is a remarkable thing.

That's great! Would you say the quality is so good that the more expensive guitar cables do make the difference?

I'm trying to figure out for myself whether I should consider G-System an all-digital-path device... Does the cross-over to a digital domain take place when internal effects are not used?

BountyHuntr

08-29-2005, 10:04 AM

That's great! Would you say the quality is so good that the more expensive guitar cables do make the difference?

I used my generic cheapo cables Thursday night... received and connected my new Lava Cables(canare) Fri ( speaker head/cab, guitar to Wah, patch from Wah to G System input, G System Output to amp head) and I immediately noticed greatly improved clarity and balance... it was very noticable!!

Lyle Caldwell

08-29-2005, 10:23 AM

Just in case someone was wondering about the use of volume pedals as expression pedals and the limited useful range of pedal travel, it's not that the pot is 250K or 25K. The issue is whether the pot is linear taper or audio (log) taper. Ernie Ball 250K pedals are made with audio taper pots, because they are designed to be used as passive volume controls between a guitar and an amp. The 25K pedals are made with linear taper pots because they are intended to be used in low impedence runs, such as in an effects loop or between a keyboard and a PA.

So if you had a 250K linear taper pot, it would work fine as an expression pedal here - the G System doesn't care about the impedence, just the taper.

FirekillsErik

09-01-2005, 01:24 AM

If you detach the rack portion and put it in your rack how long is the cable that connects the switcher to the rack unit and can it be longer if needed?

erik-firekills

journo

09-01-2005, 05:41 AM

Originally posted by FirekillsErik
If you detach the rack portion and put it in your rack how long is the cable that connects the switcher to the rack unit and can it be longer if needed?

erik-firekills

Hi,

The supplied cable is really short and if you want to rackmount the unit you have to get a longer cable. The good news is that the connection is by CAT5 computer cable that is inexpensive and readliy available. As to the maximum length of the cable I'm not sure but I think I've read somewhere it's about 50 feet or even more.

Cheers,

Mats N

Scott Peterson

09-01-2005, 05:46 AM

What journo says; you can go up to about 50 feet (15 meters) with a good quality Cat 5 Ethernet cable.

vinni

09-01-2005, 08:19 PM

Hi,
I have a G-major at the moment.
One thing I do use all time is the noisegate.
But it's very rude.
For this reason I'm planning to buy an ISP ProrackG.
Can someone (who knows how the G's noisegate sounds/works) comment on the noisegate of the G-system?

Thanks,
Vinni

jesper

09-02-2005, 01:36 AM

Ive heard at the clinic but tried hands on. Works very well and the knowledgeable guys at the tclinin praised it

Fezziwig

09-27-2005, 03:34 PM

How are expression pedals working wiht the unit now? Has anyone had any luck with an expression pedal that worked fine right out of the bag, so to speak?

Scott Peterson

09-27-2005, 03:39 PM

Originally posted by Fezziwig
How are expression pedals working wiht the unit now? Has anyone had any luck with an expression pedal that worked fine right out of the bag, so to speak?

Hey man - call me or PM me your phone number so I can answer all your questions.

In answer to this one - the Ernie Ball pedals work great, the Vox Volume pedal works even better for me (I like the throw).

amplifiedtorock

09-27-2005, 03:56 PM

I was using the tuner the other night at rehearsal and I'll be damned if it would not register the low strings! It was working fine earlier on when we first started and then later during the night it just would not pick them up. The low E and A mainly if I remember correctly. I tried messing with the volume knob, etc. but it actually happened on two consecutive nights with two different guitars. I then made sure to plug straight in (I had been going through a pedal) but still the problem. I did not reboot at that point because the song was starting. I am not sure if a simple power on/off will fix it at this point.
I thought it was a freak thing the first time it happened but now that it has happened again and with two different guitars. Yikes, I am scared it will happen at a gig. I have emailed TC for tech support. I'll post their reply.

Anyone else have tuner issues?

BountyHuntr

09-27-2005, 04:01 PM

My tuner works great... I have 2 Tom Anderson's with the Feiten system so I tune open high E, 5 fret harmonic B, and the rest 7th fret harmonic. It reads just fine.

The Volume pedal is still an issue with me... I have the Ernie Ball

Fezziwig

09-27-2005, 04:19 PM

Bounty,

Regarding the problem with the volume pedal...is it a problem with the way it tapers? You have the full range from 0-100%, but in one part of the range it increases very quickly rather than smoothly and linearly? I was hoping there might be one expression pedal out there that I could buy that would avoid this problem if I got the system.

BountyHuntr

09-27-2005, 04:59 PM

I have the 6166 which TC has successfully tested and yes the taper is non useable because the last 3/8 -1/2 inch (10%) of movement is a huge increase in volume. 90% of the heel to toe movement is negleable.

Scott Peterson

09-27-2005, 06:12 PM

FWIW, the Vox works like a charm. No weird taper issues.

I got my Ernie Ball Jr. to work fine, but messed with the calibration.

The tuner has been rock solid for me on the 5 gigs I have used the G-System.

Scott Peterson

09-28-2005, 12:31 PM

Clips!

http://www.thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?s=&threadid=104159

jesper

09-29-2005, 03:38 AM

Ive had one for a week. Let me stress its a fantastic machine. Its well designed and very good sounding. Its just not the right thing for me. So i took advantage of the buy and try offer and returned it yesterday. I need a rotery which it hasnt got (that pissed me off) and a good echo. Its got at least 5 echoes. In the end its just to complicated or to put it more precisely there is to many options for a bone head like me. Instead I bought a T. Rex Replica, a T. Rex Beta Vibe(Rotery) and an Ernie Ball jr. volume pedal and load of George L cables. All 3 goes in the effects loop of my VHT 45 Pitt Bull.

amplifiedtorock

09-29-2005, 09:13 AM

Originally posted by amplifiedtorock

Anyone else have tuner issues?

Awesome gig last night -- my first big show with the G System. I know, I know Wednesday night no big deal, right?

Everything worked perfectly! Not a single glitch. Makes me wonder if I imagined something. (At any rate, the guys at Audiosyncrazy are sending me a brand new one just-in-case.)

Highlight of the evening: guitarist from the other band says: oh, you have a G System (drool, drool) -- I said slyly, "yeah you've heard of them?" -- He said, " I had one and returned it for the POD XT Live but now wish I hadn't...":cool:

Den

09-30-2005, 11:14 AM

Thought some of you on this thread would be interested ...

I sent this message to TC yesterday:

"Are there switching features built in to the G-system that allow it to control two amps in an A/B/Y configuration? In other words, the signal is sent to either amp A, amp B, or both?"

I received a quick response:

"Dear Dennis,

This is not possible for the moment. But we are looking into the possibility to implement it in a next software release.
I will be able to answer that question in a couple of weeks when the new version is released. (if it has been implemented or if it will be delayed to the next version)

regards
Nicolas"

So I'm keeping my fingers crossed. If they were to make this work without an external A/B/Y, I think the G-system would be a great option for anyone with a two amp rig. It would be perfect to have patches set up with both the effects and the amp(s) in one stomp. Wouldn't that be cool?

jesper

10-05-2005, 03:52 AM

Vent to a Steve Vai show yesterday evening. I know for a fact he bought 2. TC are putting a rotery/vibe into it. I might go back and get me one.

vinni

10-05-2005, 03:58 AM

You mean that Vai bought two G-systems?
And that TC is adding a vibe to the G-system?

Wow!

Vinni

jesper

10-05-2005, 04:08 AM

Yes he bought 2 G-Systems and they are programming a vibe that will be included in a future software-upgrade.

NyteOwl

10-06-2005, 08:51 AM

Originally posted by Scott Peterson
I got my Ernie Ball Jr. to work fine, but messed with the calibration.Hey Scott, could you elaborate on that "...messed with the calibration..." part a bit? Did that mean you merely adjusted the Min, Mid & Max values to suit your taste or something else altogether?

Also, are you using an active or passive VP Jr?

Thanks,

jack

Scott Peterson

10-06-2005, 08:54 AM

Originally posted by NyteOwl
Hey Scott, could you elaborate on that "...messed with the calibration..." part a bit? Did that mean you merely adjusted the Min, Mid & Max values to suit your taste or something else altogether?

Also, are you using an active or passive VP Jr?

Thanks,

jack

I'll mess with it again when I get some time; I just set the calibration up like you note, but it was indeed a very weird curve, but it worked. It is a passive VPjr.

jesper

10-07-2005, 12:50 AM

I went back to my local gearpusher and rebought the System.

mr.T

10-07-2005, 02:47 PM

Got the G-system today and my expectations were quite high. In my opinion this is a great machine and it does everything I want it to do, but.......

I don't like the sound.
With no fx at all, the unit gives my guitar this slight mid-cut and it sounds a bit phasey as if there's a slight detune. Some people like this and I respect that, but for me, the midrange is extremely important. Imagine a great AC30 with a v-curved eq in front. No good.
I AB'd between cable straight to amp and through the G-system. There is a difference in sound and there's also a little "cloud" of digital noise/mush that can be heard (this is not very loud, but it's there) when going though the G-system.

I liked the phasers, the tremolos were ok, the delays were a bit boring, the pitch stuff still can't beat the ancient H3000 which I find strange.
I really wanted to like it, but this is hifi.

Seditious

10-10-2005, 12:24 PM

Originally posted by mr.T

I liked the phasers, the tremolos were ok, the delays were a bit boring, the pitch stuff still can't beat the ancient H3000 which I find strange.
I really wanted to like it, but this is hifi.

I'm interested to hear more. What are you comparing it to? What do you mean by "boring"? I'm interesting in getting one of these instead of the eventide eclipse but I don't want to make a mistake.

mr.T

10-10-2005, 06:04 PM

Well, I have a Allesandro Black'n'tan with KT66. This is my favourite amp so far (I've had old Marshalls, Fenders, Vox, CAE, Boogie (early 90's ;-), Matchless, Bruno and the list goes on). With this amp I use several units I've collected over the years. I use a Memory Man delay (true bypass), Electric Mistress, Small stone and a load of Landgraff, Analogman, zvex and xotic pedals. I've used a custom eight loop-system for a couple of years and find that it preserves my tone.
The delays are boring because they don't sound like a space echo nor a MM. I think it sounds dull and digital. If I were you I would get something else. I had a GTR4000 once but it was so hard to work with that I sold it. I guess the eclipse is better though.

Yek

10-11-2005, 01:42 PM

I'm utterly surprised, no ... disappointed, that TC hasn't thought of adjusting the GS to line level when using the 4-cable approach!
This renders it useless for amps with +4 dB fx loops.

On the subject of expression pedals: check out TC's support page, there are some items on this topic. Like: the expr.inputs on the floorboard (not the rack) aren't working.

Much talk about the missing vibe / rotary effect. But it seems like modulated delays are also absent, is that right?

Waiting for the PRO version (8 loops, more on/off buttons etc. ....) :-)

JohnLutz

10-11-2005, 01:49 PM

Question about tap tempo...

Is it easy to set the tempo of delays and tremolos to a quarter note or dotted eighth note?

John

Scott Peterson

10-11-2005, 02:24 PM

Originally posted by Yek
I'm utterly surprised, no ... disappointed, that TC hasn't thought of adjusting the GS to line level when using the 4-cable approach!
This renders it useless for amps with +4 dB fx loops.

On the subject of expression pedals: check out TC's support page, there are some items on this topic. Like: the expr.inputs on the floorboard (not the rack) aren't working.

Much talk about the missing vibe / rotary effect. But it seems like modulated delays are also absent, is that right?

Waiting for the PRO version (8 loops, more on/off buttons etc. ....) :-)

First point - agreed. Most likely fixed on a future software update.

Expression pedals - umm, read more. That was a 1.00 problem. Version 1.02 fixes it.

There are no modulated delays or rotary, but we have heard here on this thread that it is upcoming in future free software releases.

That'd be one HUGE board with 8 loops. Dunno how they'd fit that in the rack part of the system either. Time will tell.

Scott Peterson

10-11-2005, 02:24 PM

Originally posted by JohnLutz
Question about tap tempo...

Is it easy to set the tempo of delays and tremolos to a quarter note or dotted eighth note?

John

Yes and exceptionally easy to do.

Yek

10-11-2005, 02:33 PM

Originally posted by Scott Peterson
Expression pedals - umm, read more. That was a 1.00 problem. Version 1.02 fixes it.
That'd be one HUGE board with 8 loops. Dunno how they'd fit that in the rack part of the system either. Time will tell.

Scott, current item in knowledge base:

"we confirm the volume and expression pedal input of the G-System controller do not work (the GFX01 rack unit inputs work fine) This will happen in version 1.02 of G-System Software.
Solution : we are presently working to solve that problem in a software update."

Board: maybe a daughterboard would do the trick. Like the Axess FX1 and others ...

Scott Peterson

10-11-2005, 02:44 PM

Originally posted by Yek
Scott, current item in knowledge base:

"we confirm the volume and expression pedal input of the G-System controller do not work (the GFX01 rack unit inputs work fine) This will happen in version 1.02 of G-System Software.
Solution : we are presently working to solve that problem in a software update."

Board: maybe a daughterboard would do the trick. Like the Axess FX1 and others ...

But note that Version 1.02 is downloadable from the same knowledge base - right now.

One guy that posts here just bought one that was shipped with 1.02 already loaded. Mine came shipped with verison 1.02 loaded. My point is that the problem already was and *is* fixed. Mine works great with the Vox volume pedal as an expression pedal.

Yek

10-11-2005, 02:48 PM

Ah, misunderstanding on my part.

I'm referring to the faulty inputs on the controller (not the rack).

Singer of my band just got one (1.02) and he can't get his Ernie Ball VP working on the input of the floorboard. The call in the knowledge base confirms this as a problem with the current software version ("this will happen in 1.02"), to be repaired in the next update.

Scott Peterson

10-11-2005, 02:52 PM

Originally posted by Yek
Ah, misunderstanding on my part.

I'm referring to the faulty inputs on the controller (not the rack).

Singer of my band just got one (1.02) and he can't get his Ernie Ball VP working on the input of the floorboard. The call in the knowledge base confirms this as a problem with the current software version ("this will happen in 1.02"), to be repaired in the next update.

Nope - something is wrong. I can get my VP to work with my floorboard. Have him do a "System Reset" in the Utility Menu, it will not erase his presets. That got mine working when I had an issue.

FWIW, the VP has a weird curve to its response, the Vox works perfectly.

Yek

10-11-2005, 02:56 PM

I'll tell him right away to try this.

Leucadian

10-12-2005, 10:12 AM

This question is for Scott Peterson and other G System users...

I recently purchased the "system" myself and use it with CAA OD-100 (in its buffered serial effects loop) or a Snider California (straight-in, no loop). Right out of the box, I ran straight in (like Marc Cooper in the T.C. video's) and everything sounded great...I put a Fulltone Deja Vibe, an Analogman Sunface, a Maxon TS-9 and an Analogman Clone Chorus (for leslie sim) in the analog loops. At this point, I decided to copy and save a few factory presets to the user banks. I saved these presets in the serial routing mode with the routing locked in the "on" position. Everything sounded great...you can turn the effects on and off in each preset and the volume levels stay the same. At this point, after reading in the manual that "many guitarists choose semi-parallel routing and stick with it," I decided to try the other routings.

Ok, so I went to my first saved preset, changed the routing type to semi-parallel, saved it, and made sure the routing lock was in the "on" position. Here, I noticed that when I stepped on/off the different effects switches...specifically, modulation, delay and reverb, the overall volume level of the preset would drop a little. When I turned the effect back on, the level would go back to where it was. This also happened when I tried parallel routing. When I changed the routing back to serial, this did not happen...everything volume-wise was level again. Why would changing the routing from serial to semi-parallel or parallel affect the levels? Could it be because the G System's factory presets are programmed with serial routing in mind?

I guess I'm wondering how you guys run the routing...and if I'm doing something wrong. I know that you have to save a factory preset first, pick a routing type, press enter, save it, and then lock the routing type for it to apply to ALL saved presets. Any thoughts, ideas?

I should add that the G System sounds ridiculously awesome! I'm stoked!:D

Scott Peterson

10-12-2005, 10:59 AM

Hmm, I do not get the volume drop. I run the thing serial mode with my GT Soul-O 45 (and run straight in to the amp) and in semi-parallel with my VHT Pittbull 50/ST (using the "4 cable method"). No issues.

Try the system reset in the Utility Menu - it won't hose your user presets and it makes issues go away, I had my expression pedal stop working and doing that made everything okay again.

Fezziwig

10-12-2005, 12:13 PM

Originally posted by Scott Peterson
Nope - something is wrong. I can get my VP to work with my floorboard. Have him do a "System Reset" in the Utility Menu, it will not erase his presets. That got mine working when I had an issue.

FWIW, the VP has a weird curve to its response, the Vox works perfectly.

I can second Scott on this one. The passive Vox volume pedal, once calibrated easily with the system, works perfectly.

Leucadian

10-12-2005, 01:45 PM

Scott...I also emailed T.C.'s support page about the routing issues I was having. Here is my question and T.C.'s response:

Greetings...my question has to do with the effects routing. Saved a few presets and started with serial routing...put the routing lock "on"...everything sounds great (going straight into the amp as well as putting the G System into the effects loop of my CAA OD-100)...the volume levels stayed the same when switching individual effects on and off. Then when I tried semi-parallel routing, the levels would appear to lower slightly when I would turn off the effects within that preset. Specifically, the modulation, delay and reverb. Is this because the factory presets I copied and saved in the user banks are designed with serial routing in mind?

Dear John,
The change of level is due to the routing mode. It is not a bug, the software was intended to be like that. Globally it is to avoid any clipping in the digital domain. There is a maximum output level, and the sum of all effect levels should not be over this reference.
. In serial the overall level is easy to define and optimize, but not in semi-parallel and parallel. In these routing modes we must keep a bit more headroom and that is why globally the output level can be lower than in serial mode.
By the way, the routing lock is not recommended for the moment because we know it can trigger some bugs. This will be fixed in a the next software release.
best regards
Nicolas

Try this...save the factory preset "Gilmour's delays." Then making sure you are using semi-parallel routing (which you said you do on your VHT), turn on and off the delay and/or reverb switches. Does the volume change slightly depending on what's on/off? Based on T.C.'s answer, I guess I need to adjust the levels somewhere.

Leucadian

10-12-2005, 01:47 PM

I should have added that the last paragraph was from me...not T.C.

Scott Peterson

10-12-2005, 01:58 PM

Huh. I guess perhaps that I didn't notice the change in volume levels because I was physically changing amps when changing modes.

Interesting.

Leucadian

10-12-2005, 02:48 PM

I've emailed T.C. again asking how/where/which output level to adjust...granted, the volume drops are slight...but what bugs me is that it doesn't happen in serial routing. I've been editing the factory presets I like such as "Gilmour's Delays" and "Right On the Edge"...I saved them without the effects on. So when I switch to those presets and turn on the delay, reverb, or chorus, there's this little increase in the volume. (If you save them as is and then turn the effects off with the switches, the volume drops). Very annoying and I'm just trying to understand what I need to adjust. I'm currently using the four cable method with the OD-100 too. Anyway...I'll let you know what T.C.'s reply is.

LordRiffenstein

10-13-2005, 02:55 AM

Originally posted by Leucadian
Try this...save the factory preset "Gilmour's delays." Then making sure you are using semi-parallel routing (which you said you do on your VHT), turn on and off the delay and/or reverb switches. Does the volume change slightly depending on what's on/off? Based on T.C.'s answer, I guess I need to adjust the levels somewhere.

Mmm, I had this exact same problem with my GMajor and I contacted TC about it and they were never able to duplicate my problem. Seems they finally CAN duplicate it :rolleyes: :FM

Leucadian

10-13-2005, 09:11 AM

So I emailed T.C. Support (Nicolas) again and this was their reply:

HI John,
When I was speaking about headroom, it was for explaining how the software handles the block levels so there is nothing you can do there. We have tested your example and I agree with you there is a level difference when the blocks are bypassed.
I have forwarded it to the product manager. Maybe there are some software solutions.
Regards
Nicolas

All us G Sysyem users will have to be a little patient until some of these issues are solved...I eagerly await the updated version. I'm just trying to understand how the G Sysytem works. Regardless, the G Sysytem sounds great running straight into my non-effects loop Snider California amp (serial routing). It sounds even better when I use it with my OD-100 (in the effects loop again using serial routing) and use it to switch the channels on the amp. In this set-up, the time-based effects come after the preamp, and regardless of the routing that is used, it sounds superb.

Unless you use a very wet preset ie; A LOT of reverb, delay, and chorus, serial routing sounds fine to me. Besides, I'm tired of programming the G System...I think its a wonderful piece of equipment...I'm glad I acquired it...I just want to play today!:dude

Fezziwig

10-13-2005, 11:01 AM

Is it easy to set-up to switch the channels of the OD-100 amp? I was curious about that.

Leucadian

10-13-2005, 11:20 AM

Yes, very simple...once in the relay menu, you just turn the proper encoder dial until it switches whatever channel you need for that preset, then you store it. It will switch all three channels of the OD-100...clean (channel 1), crunch (channel 2), and lead (channel 2 boost). You can store two channel settings for each preset and assign another switch to access that secondary setting. It's very cool...with the OD-100's three channels, overdrive and other effects in the analog loops (before amp input), and the internal T.C. time-based effects after the preamp, it's quite an arsenal of sounds and tones.:)

Scott Peterson

10-13-2005, 11:23 AM

Originally posted by Leucadian
Yes, very simple...once in the relay menu, you just turn the proper encoder dial until it switches whatever channel you need for that preset, then you store it. It will switch all three channels of the OD-100...clean (channel 1), crunch (channel 2), and lead (channel 2 boost). You can store two channel settings for each preset and assign another switch to access that secondary setting. It's very cool...with the OD-100's three channels, overdrive and other effects in the analog loops (before amp input), and the internal T.C. time-based effects after the preamp, it's quite an arsenal of sounds and tones.:)

Very cool and very similar to what I can do with the VHT Pittbull 50/ST with clean, Clean boost, dirty and dirty boost as the "channels" I can switch with the G-System. Great loop, and it feels like a million sounds are all on the floor. I really dig it.

JohnLutz

10-13-2005, 12:57 PM

Talked to John at Audiosyncrazy.com. Their best price is currently $1299 shipped. The $1250 was an introductory price for the first batch.

Is this the best deal going?

Scott Peterson

10-13-2005, 01:02 PM

Originally posted by JohnLutz
Talked to John at Audiosyncrazy.com. Their best price is currently $1299 shipped. The $1250 was an introductory price for the first batch.

Is this the best deal going?

That is the best deal I have heard of past the "introductory" price they offered.... for a week. Grrrr....

Mondoslug

10-13-2005, 01:37 PM

www.gtrheaven in Nashville is selling it for less.

NyteOwl

10-14-2005, 07:38 AM

Originally posted by Mondoslug
www.gtrheaven in Nashville is selling it for less. Check your link and your math. Guitar Heaven's (http://www.gtrheaven.com) current pricing for the G System is $1499.

jesper

10-14-2005, 07:42 AM

You guys are incredibly lucky. here in the motherland of the System the price is 1830$ 25% sales tax included. But its a nice machine.

Mondoslug

10-14-2005, 07:45 AM

Originally posted by NyteOwl
Check your link and your math. Guitar Heaven's (http://www.guitarheanven.com) current pricing for the G System is $1499.

I was in there 2 days ago, they're closing the store by end of the year. The price on the G-System is under $1200.00

NyteOwl

10-14-2005, 12:29 PM

Originally posted by Mondoslug
I was in there 2 days ago, they're closing the store by end of the year. The price on the G-System is under $1200.00 Could it maybe be just that one store that's closing and blowing them out? I got the $1499 price direct from their web site this morning..:confused:

Mondoslug

10-14-2005, 12:37 PM

Originally posted by NyteOwl
Could it maybe be just that one store that's closing and blowing them out? I got the $1499 price direct from their web site this morning..:confused:

Don't be confused. There's a big sign on it in the store - and it's under 1200 dollars. Just because it's not listed on his website doesn't really mean much - at least not to me. If he still has it, he's selling it(them) for less than 1200.

NyteOwl

10-15-2005, 09:41 AM

Originally posted by Mondoslug
Don't be confused. There's a big sign on it in the store - and it's under 1200 dollars. Just because it's not listed on his website doesn't really mean much - at least not to me. If he still has it, he's selling it(them) for less than 1200. I'm not confused; turns out we're both right and my apologies for doubting you. The web site price is $1499 and they have one in the store tagged at $1198. I think they only have one at that price, though, so if anyone is interested I'd suggest calling them soon.

guittarzzan

10-18-2005, 02:30 AM

Okay, I've read about every thread and review available on the internet and will, hopefully, be demoing one of these critters soon, but I want to hear from actual owners who've had it awhile and can speak from experience:

Forget the quality of the effects, the flexibility, the features etc, do you honestly feel that your pure guitar/amp tone and/or responsiveness/feel does not suffer from the fact that your amp is getting a signal that has already gone through an a/d/a conversion? Does your tube amp still soune every bit as thick and beefy or is there a bit of a trade off here?

I'm about to plunk down some bucks on an Egnater M4 set up and I'll go the DMC GCX and Ground control route before sacrificing the raw tone of the guitar and amp. Flexibility is nice, as I learned with the Line6 Vetta, but I guess I've also learned that in the end, tone matters more than features to me. Although lacking in processing power, the best sounding guitar effects unit I've ever used/heard was the Lexi MPX G-2. It just sounded "real", but if the TC unit actually lives up to the hype, I'll buy one in a second.

thanks,
Steve:dude

vinni

10-18-2005, 03:00 AM

Hi,

I have one......can't hear the difference.
What's important though....
You have to zet the levels right.
Inpurgain of your guitar....headroom for the loops.
That's a very important factor.

Have fun!

Vinni

58lespaulman

10-18-2005, 04:48 AM

Please Vinni can you elaberate a little more?? That doesn't really tell us anything.. Give us your true feelings.

Scott Peterson

10-18-2005, 05:08 AM

The G-System doesn't degrade your tone one bit IMHO.

I have far too much time, effort, money and gear invested in getting good tone to muss it up over flexibility.

I truly feel TC got this right and it sounds great - even bypassed - to my ear.

Vinni is correct, you need to set levels correctly. In the input gain of the TC, in your loop send/return, and in the TC for the loops. It isn't a "plug and play" unit, but it isn't rocket science either.

vinni

10-18-2005, 05:10 AM

True feelings?

I bought it because I wanted a better FX's processor than my G-major. And it's better....The quality of the FX's and to my ears there's no tonesucking. But what's important are the levels. You have to set the inputgain on the G-system where you plug your guitar in. You have to set the Loop level and Loop Headroom as well. This is very important.
Loop level determines how hard you hit the loopsection (your pedals and preamp) So this is important for your overall sound. As always....hitting it harder or softer will get you different sounds from your pedals and/or preamp.
Loopheadroom controls the sensitivity on the inputside of the effects section. This is important because as we all know, pedals and preamp can boost the signal considerably, overloading the effectsinputsection on the G-system. This can cause audible digital glitches. Playing with these parameters can really shape your sound.

Vinni

Scott Peterson

10-18-2005, 05:15 AM

This is a cut and paste from the Member Soundclips section.

The playing isn't important, I was trying to show an overview of what is possible with the way that *I* set up and run the G-System with my Soul-O 45.

Here is a quickie take I did to show the different things you can do with this simple setup.

The guitar is my 04 Melancon Custom Artist "S" with WCR SR/SR/Goodwood pickups. All the clean stuff played here is on the neck SR pickup; the heavier stuff is on the bridge Goodwood.

The G-System is very slick. You have 4 or 5 analog loops (depending on how your setup is). I have a Red Witch Moon Phaser in Loop 1, Timmy in Loop 2, and Xotic AC Booster in Loop 3.

I recorded this with a SM57 right up on the grille, no EQ, compression or limiting going in or post. Cut straight to a MP3 and here you are.

Enjoy!Click here to get to my Soundclick page, then click on "Melancon GT G-Sys Clip" (http://www.soundclick.com/bands/pagemusic.cfm?bandID=339733)

Here is a cheat sheet of what you'll hear:

00:00 Straight into amp
00:11 Timmy
00:13 AC Boost
00:28 AC/Timmy
00:39 Straight into amp
00:46 G-Sys Wah
01:39 Straight into amp
01:42 G-Sys Vintage Phaser
01:53 G-Sys Phaser + Pitch
02:00 G-Sys Phaser + Pitch + Delay
02:14 G-Sys Phaser + Pitch + Delay +Red Witch Moon Phaser
02:41 Timmy
02:55 Timmy + G-Sys Wah
03:18 AC Boost
03:40 AC Boost + Tim
03:54 AC Boost + Tim + G-Sys Boost
04:11 AC Boost + Tim + G-Sys Wah
04:22 AC Boost + Tim + Phaser
Then I added the Red Witch, then Pitch, then Delay....
05:00 Straight into amp
05:10 G-Sys Delay

You can do a lot more, such as clean boosts at any time (clean, with any arrangement of gain pedals) and I didn't show the rest of the tricks in the thing (compressor, whammy pedal, octaver, etc..) but you get the picture.

vinni

10-18-2005, 05:19 AM

One more thing....

Adjusting the inputgain on the guitarinput....
I can imagine that you might think this can be a problem when using several guitars. Well....I think you have to compromise here. There is however a way to change the inputlevel very fast by hitting the EDIT and FILTER encoders.
You cannot store the inputlevel with your presets.
(hey....TC......Are you listening? :D )

However....
Are there any guitarplayers that change their inputgain on their amp when they switch guitars?......don't think so....

Vinni

Scott Peterson

10-18-2005, 06:14 AM

Originally posted by vinni
However....
Are there any guitarplayers that change their inputgain on their amp when they switch guitars?......don't think so....

Vinni

Actually, I do. :D

guittarzzan

10-18-2005, 11:26 AM

I think I'm going to repost my question on a new thread instead of trying to hijack this one :)

cheers.

Scott Peterson

10-21-2005, 09:17 PM

I posted this on another thread, but wanted to add it to this thread for archive purposes.

I am utterly digging it. Sort of "growing into it" type of a thing.

I cannot understand the "sterile" knock folks are pegging it with; to each their own and with all due respect, it truly depends on what you do with it I guess.

I am not an effects hog; I like shadings of things to spice up parts and such; so I mix in the effects by degree. I suspect that folks using this thing to mix in heavy effects are sounding processed; any effects system or box will do that if you want it to.

I don't. I am a "tone" guy, I take my sounds and palette very seriously, pay lots of attention to details and have worked hard on that aspect of my "package" of tools I offer as a musican in the groups/bands/gigs I play on.

For instance, I mix in delay sometimes; but with this box or any other, I typically will run it at about 8% wet at most. Unless I am doing some Pink Floyd or U2 tune, obviously. If you run stuff at 30% wet all over the board, you'll get your typical 80's processed cheese tone. That's not what it is about for me.

Everything on the G-System is cool in my book. It has some things that are issues - no rotary effects, no computer edit program, etc. - that are due for fixes in coming software updates. So I will not hold those things against it, because for what it does do - right now, out of the box - it is an amazingly well thought out and executed system.

And it is a "system" more than an effects box with a nice pedal controller. It does indeed take some time to completely get and set it up to work with your whole rig(s); it can change channels on your amp, does clean boosts on everything you do, works in 4 analog loops (or 5 if you just run it straight into your amp, you can use the "insert loop" as a 5th analog loop. The power of this is similar in scope to what the Bradshaw systems do; but it is fully realized in a killer elegant and sturdy package.

All that said, it isn't for everyone. Lots of guys don't want/need this type of control or power. And that is cool. All I can say is that I had exceptionally high expectations and this thing surpassed even my highest ones -- after I got into it and understood it.

Flipping through presets, like anything, is underwhelming. Once you get "into" the thing and get your system set up around it, your levels set, your loops wired up and then use it live; you don't know this thing.

I have used it to run my acoustic setup in direct sunshine outdoors; I have run my little electic gig rig on the darkest stage. I have run my big rock VHT rig with it, switching channels, boost levels on the amp and such. All done flawlessly and it is indeed fun to use.

You have to see the reaction from the pro sound guys; I used it on a national level stage at one of the biggest festivals here in Michigan over Labor Day weekend; totally pro sound guys that were some of the best I have ever worked with. They were all over me for the way it looked, worked and sounded. I had them up on stage after we were done talking to me about it and even the FOH guy was up there - which I have NEVER seen before - talking to me about how good it sounded and impressed he was with it (along with my Variax 700 acoustic, which he noted a lot of pro guys are using live now).

It is stuff like that which makes me feel, honestly, that this is indeed the real deal. I know what I hear. I know what I see. To have dudes on *that* level raving it up, well, that is what it is.

That I can use it in such different contexts - acoustic country, electric r/b, electric rock - and have it do everything I ask so far is very satisfying. Once they get the computer editing solution up (due next month from the whispers I have heard), I'll be even more stoked with it.

I still have and use my POD XT Live. That thing works very well, and the value of it for the money is a great thing. The ability to quickly edit it on the computer spoils me. With the G-System, once I can make tons of changes and move around presets and rename them on the computer, I'll be deeply happy.

The deepest knock I have on it is simply that, at this point, you need to be on your knees to edit it. I really don't like that. Add in the computer to quickly edit full setups/banks/presets - and BOOM. Me happy.

As for the sounds and effects individually, I am very happy with it too. It offers me everything I want, outside of the rotary effect, and when bypassed it sounds perfect. The A/D and D/A converters are done right. This is a big deal; one that needs to be stressed - the amp sounds/feels/reacts "right" even with everything dry. That alone is a huge leap forward in the digital effects game. TC isn't the only one to get it right, but IMHO, they did it right. Add in the design of the thing, the tones of the thing and the analog loops.... it is really quite a bargin in the end.

One last thing I'll highlight is that the wah sounds so organic. This is a BIG deal to me; and the first thing I checked out when I hooked it up. It delivers HUGE here. I could not be happier. I am also blown away, truly, with the way they offered a "auto off"; you can set the amount of time before it turns the wah off (I use 1 second); then all you need to do is start moving the pedal to turn it back on instantly. It saves that awkward step of trying to switch the wah out of the tone path when you don't need it. If you need a really fast "off", then you sometimes have a slight overlap before it clicks out of the tone path, but it is no worse than switching it out on a analog pedal. I dig that.

I'll answer any specific questions you ask, but that's my little overview.

guittarzzan

10-22-2005, 03:24 AM

Thanks Scott for all that info. That's the most informative info I've seen on this unit so far.
In regards to using one of the loops for an analog path, are you able to say run one channel of a preamp through that loop and blend it with the digitally effected signal for one output without sending that analog path through an a/d/a conversion? If so, that would be the cure all for my concerns with the unit.

thanks for the info,
Steve

Scott Peterson

10-22-2005, 07:01 AM

Originally posted by guittarzzan
Thanks Scott for all that info. That's the most informative info I've seen on this unit so far.
In regards to using one of the loops for an analog path, are you able to say run one channel of a preamp through that loop and blend it with the digitally effected signal for one output without sending that analog path through an a/d/a conversion? If so, that would be the cure all for my concerns with the unit.

thanks for the info,
Steve

No you cannot. The signal path is locked; there is no way "around" the converters.

But I will again point out that you should use your ears and not your head to determine if the unit sounds good/right/organic. You might not like the idea of what they did; but you just might like the execution of it.

Use your own ears to decide.

Amitar

10-22-2005, 11:52 AM

Originally posted by Scott Peterson
This is a cut and paste from the Member Soundclips section.

The playing isn't important, I was trying to show an overview of what is possible with the way that *I* set up and run the G-System with my Soul-O 45.
That is one of the best oraginzed demo's I have heard. Very well done.

Den

10-22-2005, 02:54 PM

Originally posted by Amitar
That is one of the best oraginzed demo's I have heard. Very well done. +1 great stuff, Scott ... you're right, very impressive. Thanks

JohnLutz

10-22-2005, 08:02 PM

I tried a G System today and got a loud buzz, not unlike a ToneCore pedal. The store had tons of halogen lights. I wonder if they factored into the equation.

There are lots of interesting sounds. One question I had though...

I'm running a stereo setup. Recently, I compared my BOSS DD-20 to a Guyatone Tube Echo. The Guyatone sounds huge compared to the BOSS. The BOSS sounds really thin and lame next to the Tube delay. Can anyone guess how the G System would compare?

Fezziwig

10-22-2005, 08:36 PM

Hmm..that's the first I've heard of a buzz. For me, the G-system is DEAD quiet. Compared to the G-Force (which currently still has more features, but later patches to the G-System may change this) the G-system is MUCH quieter. It must have been the lights! :D

Scott Peterson

10-22-2005, 08:38 PM

Mine's quiet.

guittarzzan

10-23-2005, 05:32 PM

Ok, a few more irritating questions as no one here in town seems to want to stock these units because they're so "high end" Good grief, this is Portland, not some farm town in Kansas.
Anyhoo,

-Is the wah really convincing as a quality sound on high-gain leads without sucking the tone out like other digital attempts at wah?

-the inserts for stomp boxes...can you route them before the preamp or in the eff loop?

-Do you feel the effects in these units are new algorythms of a higher quality than the G-Force units? I had one of the first G-Forces and although I could have a lot of effects at once, none of them were very inspiring. Plus, it seemed to be a big tone sucker.

-Is there any factual info re: Tc updating this unit with rotary speaker and intelligent pitch shifting?

Thanks again for letting me bug you:dude

Steve

Scott Peterson

10-23-2005, 07:21 PM

Originally posted by guittarzzan
-Is the wah really convincing as a quality sound on high-gain leads without sucking the tone out like other digital attempts at wah?

Yes. I have made that point numerous times and posted a clip of the wah. Under heavier gain, it sounds better than even some of the high end "analog" wahs IMHO.

-the inserts for stomp boxes...can you route them before the preamp or in the eff loop?

No. The routing is fixed.

-Do you feel the effects in these units are new algorythms of a higher quality than the G-Force units? I had one of the first G-Forces and although I could have a lot of effects at once, none of them were very inspiring. Plus, it seemed to be a big tone sucker.
At Summer NAMM I was told in the TC Booth that the processing power of the G-System was comparable to the G-Force and G-Major combined. As for new effects algorithms, I don't know. As I note many times above and on other threads, IMHO the G-System is not a tone sucker.

-Is there any factual info re: Tc updating this unit with rotary speaker and intelligent pitch shifting?
Version 1.02 was posted. So they are supporting it. Folks have cut/pasted emails from TC noting those exact changes coming in future updates.

-