Effects Bay

So yesterday, I posted a post about the Tech 21 VT Bass SansAmp Character Series Bass pedal, and Randy W. mentioned that they sold the the deluxe. So I had to look into this. The deluxe is definitely ‘deluxe’ over the standard pedal with it being programmable with a FX loop.

Here is the official description of what the Tech 21 SansAmp Character Series VT Bass Deluxe Distortion can do:

The deluxe version Tech 21 SansAmp VT Bass Distortion pedal boasts a combination of a warm, all-analog signal path and convenient digital recall. There are 6 program locations and dual inputs for 2 instruments to be online, ready to go. Create 3 custom tones for each input or use all 6 locations for a single instrument.

You can program the FX loop to engage your favorite effect each time you select its designated preset. The SansAmp VT Bass Deluxe is super-simple to operate—changes can easily be made on the fly—without having to refer to the owner’s manual. You just turn the knobs to a setting you like, double-click on a footswitch, and it’s saved in that channel.

The Tech 21 SansAmp VT Bass Deluxe distortion pedal’s level and drive controls work like a traditional, well-equipped amp. Low, mid and high are active controls, providing a wider array of tonal possibilities. The Character knob is continuously-variable moving seamlessly between different model voicings, covering vintage, high-gain, and face-melting lead tones.

The Tech 21 SansAmp technology captures the warm, rich, natural tones of the most sought-after tube amplifiers. Within the parameters of each model’s particular design, the controls provide you with access to specific tone-shaping characteristics within the tube amplifier sound spectrum.

Tech 21 SansAmp products are designed to work seamlessly in both recording and stage environments. They can be used with almost any instrument, for any music style, and for multiple applications. Record directly to tape and disc or enhance previously recorded tracks. For live performances, they can drive a power amp and speakers, augment your existing amplifier setup, or run directly into the mixer of a PA system.

I wasn’t able to find too much as for videos, but I did find this one by laquitarepointcom, titled [NAMM 2010] – Tech 21 – VT Bass Deluxe:

The Tech 21 SansAmp Character Series VT Bass Deluxe Distortion Effects Pedal is a little more than the ‘standard’. You can pick it up for $269.00 at Musician’s Friend.

Remember, if you like reading about these pedals and seeing videos reviews from others, please subscribe to the RSS feed and get notified via email when there are new postings!

Popularity: 6%

Hello! It’s Free Shirt Wednesday! A couple of weeks ago, @pelossus contacted me and asked if I would wear a shirt.. that wasn’t band, music, pedal builder, or music dealer related. I said, what’s the story, and he presented this organization to me.  After checking out the site, I thought since this was for a good cause, I’ll wear it and post it on the site. I think we may all be able to relate to this issue, and possibly help.

So the organization is One Day’s Wages (ODW) and they are a grassroots movement dedicated to ending extreme global poverty. I went to their site, there is buckets of information, but this video really captures the message of what they’re trying to do.

If you like this message, please visit One Day’s Wages and make a donation! Also, they have a page on Facebook!

Now, if you want to be featured on Free Shirt Wednesday.. it’s really quite simple. Send me a shirt, if it’s music related (ie: guitar builder, band, pedal builder, guitar shop, recording studio, etc) I’ll dedicate a blog post about your biz, band, etc. I’ll take a photo with my aging, slightly pudgy mug and post it. Great simple, cheap form of advertising. Still interested? Then check this page for more info

Popularity: 3%

Hello all, once again, I’ve been forgetting about the bass players out there. So to make up for that this morning, I’m going to talk about the Tech 21 Bass SansAmp Character Series Bass Pedal. I’ve talked abut SansAmp in the past, and their stuff is quite impressive, so I was expecting the same level here with this pedal.

Here is the official description of this pedal:

The Tech 21 VT Bass SansAmp Character Series Bass Pedal delivers the sound of a tower of power pumping through a stack of 10″ speakers. The VT Bass is just the bass pedal for bass players who demand to be heard and want legendary bass tone. From chunky funk with the ubiquitous flip-top to the higher-gain growl of indie rock, this Tech 21 bass effects pedal has range to spare. Still need more? Lean on the Character control for the fat, distorted sound of Crimson and King s X—it all sounds massive. From clean SVT thump to dirty, earth-quaking crunch, with the VT Bass pedal you just dial it in.

Each effects pedal in the Tech 21 Character Series, including the VT Bass Pedal, is loaded with tonal DNA for a specific style of guitar amplifier. By simply twisting a few knobs, you can build those sought-after tones or hot-rod your own. From rare vintage classics to roaring modern icons, every variation is delivered in the distinctive voicing of that amp style. The intuitive amp-like controls on Tech 21 Character Series pedals let you get your hands dirty from the get-go while you explore decades of blistering tones.

Being a genuine SansAmp, each Tech 21 Character Series pedal is way more than a stompbox. Each pedal can be used as a stand-alone pre-amp to drive a power amp, a studio mixer, or a PA system, with the rich SansAmp cabinet emulation that sounds huge – even straight into a computer soundcard. Or plug the Tech 21 VT Bass SansAmp Character Series Bass Pedal into your bass guitar amp to take your tone on the road.

I also found a nice demo by Burgerman666:

You can pick up the Tech 21 VT Bass SansAmp Character Series Bass Pedal for $149.00 at Musician’s Friend.

Remember, if you like reading about these pedals and seeing videos reviews from others, please subscribe to the RSS feed and get notified via email when there are new postings!

Popularity: 4%

So today @lazymouth was asking about some EQ pedal options. I normally don’t use EQ pedals, but I definitely understand how they can be handy for achieving quick tone changes for lead or rhythm requirements.  His concern was searching for a ‘non-noisy’ EQ, and I came across the MXR KFK-1 Kerry King Ten Band EQ pedal, which looked promising. If any of you own this pedal, love to hear your feedback.. please comment below!

Here is the official description:

The MXR KFK-1 Kerry King Ten Band Equalizer was designed in conjunction with the legendary Slayer guitarist. This beastly, tattoo-covered pedal has all the functions of the M-108 times 2 with its dual outputs. The KFK-1 will help you shape thrash-approved, scooped-mid rhythm tones plus create raging sustain and feedback. It’ll help you wring more thunderous low-end out of your rig than you ever thought possible. Use it with caution. And don’t say we didn’t warn you!

I also found a good video of showing the different EQ settings by jimdunlopusa.

You can pick up the MXR KFK-1 Kerry King Ten Band EQ for $139.99 at Musician’s Friend!

Remember, if you like reading about these pedals and seeing videos reviews from others, please subscribe to the RSS feed and get notified via email when there are new postings!

Popularity: 4%

I’m feeling a bit under the weather today, but I did find a interesting pedal by Electro-Harmonix called the V256 Vocoder. I always have to remind myself, it’s not just about guitar overdrives and fuzzes. This is primarily a vocal tool, but could be used for interesting guitar tones, as well.

Here is the official description:

Use the Electro-Harmonix V256 Vocoder Pedal to robotize, harmonize, and rule the vocoder world. The EH V256 is a vocal processor that welds your voice to your axe delivering creative twists that make one heckuva difference in your sound.

The effect pedal bends your gender, drones your tone and invites alien noises into your next song. You want flexibility? The V256 vocal pedal adjusts the vocoder from 8 to 256 bands—taking you back to the ’80s and propelling you into the future at the same time. Bring your vocals up to snuff with the Electro-Harmonix V256 Vocoder Pedal’s advanced processing “Reflex Tune”—today’s most popular pitch-correction effect.

I also found this interesting.. yet slightly disturbing video by EHXCentral

You can pick up the Electro-Harmonix V246 Vocoder for $217.50 at Musician’s Friend.

Remember, if you like reading about these pedals and seeing videos reviews from others, please subscribe to the RSS feed and get notified via email when there are new postings!

Popularity: 3%

I saw that Fat Tone Guitars recently had a pedal reviewed by Gearmanndude, so I had to check it out. It’s the Earthquaker Devices Ghost Echo Reverb.

Here is the official description of the pedal:

The Ghost Echo Reverb is designed to emulate a vintage reverb unit. It ‘s capable of providing a little atmosphere all the way through to vast depths. The attack control sets the delay of the initial pick attack on the wet signal only. When playing staccato this registers as a slap back type echo hitting the reverb but when playing fluid lines it adds a massive depth and “fattens” up the sound. The dwell control is a fine tune function that enhances the decay. At first it may seem like it’s not there but back it off and you’ll miss it. The depth controls the intensity of the reverb.

And, here is the review by gearmanndude:

You can pick up the Earthquaker Devices Ghost Echo Reverb for $155.00 at FatToneGuitars.com!

Remember, if you like reading about these pedals and seeing videos reviews from others, please subscribe to the RSS feed and get notified via email when there are new postings!

Popularity: 4%

One of my friends on Facebook posted this to their profile, and since I’m in a small Sonic Youth kick right now, I’m eating this video up. It’s David Bowie (who I’m also a fan of) and Sonic Youth at David’s 50th birthday concert. I’ve never seen it, but it’s pretty cool. Seems somewhat fitting for a lazy Sunday afternoon post.

Popularity: 3%

This morning, I came across the MXR M-133 Micro Amp. Been wanting to talk about this for a while, but it always seems to slip through the cracks. I’m a fan of clean boost pedals. They’re simple and really effective to crush your preamp for sweet tone. This one is no exception, single gain knob. I like it. Also, in the video below it mentioned how it will “preserve the integrity of your signal when you use long cables”. Sounds like there is a built in high impedance buffer in there, which in my opinion, is a great thing.

Here is the official description:

The MXR M-133 Micro Amplifier Pedal adds a preset amount of gain, using a single control. With a guitar, this lets you boost your signal for lead work, adjust between 2 different guitars with unmatched output (i.e., humbucker to single coils), or it can supply a permanent boost in a long effects chain where signal drop-off is a problem. Power: Single 9-volt battery or Dunlop ECB-003 AC Adapter – Controls: Footswitch toggles amp on/bypass (red LED indicates on) Gain knob adjusts total output volume when the Micro Amp is engaged.

Here is a video by jimdunlopusa:

You can pick up the MXR M-133 Micro Amp for only $79.99 at Musician’s Friend!

Remember, if you like reading about these pedals and seeing videos reviews from others, please subscribe to the RSS feed and get notified via email when there are new postings!

Popularity: 4%

It’s been a little bit since I asked a community question, so I posted one later in the afternoon yesterday on Twitter and Facebook. My question was “What effect pedals are you guys interested in?“. I knew this was going to vary in responses, so I was curious what everyone would say. Here are the results. If missed out in your chance to respond, please comment below.

Twitter

CorydooM Electro Harmonix holy grail reverb.. RT @effectsbay: What effect pedals are you guys interested in?
FrankenstratCat @effectsbay distortion; chorus; tremolo; delay; compression;
worshipinrocker @effectsbay Paul Cochrane Tim
Flannel_Man Figured I better be the echo. RT @AndrewElmore: @effectsbay delaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelay
AndrewElmore @effectsbay delaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelaydelay
PeterBerki @effectsbay I’m liking wah pedals lately. Specifically all the crybabys
thedaileyblake @effectsbay good question! i’m starting to lean more towards simple 3-button analog pedals. my board’s got too much multi-mode craziness!
Sammy_or @effectsbay Flanger, delay loop, clean/distorted switcher, acoustic sound to electric (if you can do that, I would totally buy it). Thanks.
CarlosDelgado42 @effectsbay Bootsy Collins Snarlin Dog Pedal and any New Metal Pedals that are similar or better than the MT-2 Metal Zone Pedal
landosaurusrex I would KILL for a Digitech Whammy Pedal right now lol RT @effectsbay: What effect pedals are you guys interested in?
dnaamps @effectsbay Killer multi-band bass compressor, octaver that goes one UP & allows FX loop on octave, maybe even separate send. Yeah: dreamin’
arimcohen @effectsbay I want the BD-5 boss Blues driver. Also the micro amp by MXR. and the weeping demon wahwah pedal. All are gorgeous and fantastic
onedadslife @effectsbay I’m hooked on overdrive/distortion/etc. pedals! Have my sights on M.I. Audio Crunch & Rothwell Hellbender.
samoesp @effectsbay blackout effects
4ntwaan @effectsbay to answer your facebook poll question, an example : http://tinyurl.com/y9zvn54 Death By Audio – Robot

Facebook

Austin Woodward holy fire by creation audio labs
Robert Flaglor the kind that blow up amps and destroy ears
Kevin Ian Common pigtronix echolution. moody mushroom echo. lovepdeal eternity. toxic plant by last gasp. glitch computer by mid fi. the new noise floors by devi ever. the utter stutter by ohnoho
Andrew Green zvex ooh wah. i use my fulltone wah but not in the way it is meant to be used. ooh wah gives me what i need with a much smaller foot print.
Max Scialdone harmonizer, looper, wah… more when they come to mind
Iblame Summers definitely the EHX Cathedral since i don’t have it yet & reverb pedals/rack reverbs that do REVERSE reverb in general.
David Verdugo EHX Holy Grail, ZVex Tremorama
Adam Graham Adrenalinn iii by far, awesome the creative mind… I can’t do without it
Nikolaos Triantafillou anything with tubes
Ivan Lopez Garrido just a wicked boost
Tom Lister a recommendation on a good tight distortion/fuzz sound like what Jonny Lang uses.
Matt Drozdeck I have been wanting a freakshow effects digilog delay for the longest time.
Mike Revis All of them.
Chris Mintie anything that Skinkontrol makes.(fuzz,compressor,boost,overdrive,tremelo,ect..) i own a few different fuzz pedals by them, and can’t believe how great the fuzz tones are that they produce .i just recieved my custom multi fuzz pedal and a tremelo pedal by them, and will hopefully post a vid of them soon. UNREAL is all i have to say.check them out.
Patrick Flanary Any new Bass Processors out there. Ive got a DigiTech BNX3 thats on its last legs.
Antoine Camelin Death By Audio and EHX, no f**kin’ way! (it’s not pedals actually, but admit that all their pedal are more or less interesting! )
Daniel Wesolowski I want that new Dunlop volume pedal!
Dominic Rippel Fuzz faceless. Analog filter. Delay lay lay
Tony Henry EHX, TECH 21, ZVEX, BOSS, DIGITECH……….
Joe Vella Electro-Faustus EF101
Frank Adams A decent Ampeg Scrambler clone, orthe 2005 reissue. Just blew money on a 2nd run of the Spring Chicken LE.
Matt Drozdeck best scrambler clone in my opinion is the retroman scram. should check that out.
K George Wyland ernie earplug yam with anything I can stick into it. it’s glued to one of my guitars…
Giancarlo Pinto MXR Phase 100 Dunlop. Hendrix Style
Joel Yu ring thing !
Eric Foster http://www.blackouteffectors.com
Alexander Pindarov Fuzz…
Marcelo Donati MXR Auto Q and 1 Talk box

Thanks everyone!! Great stuff there!

Popularity: 3%

Currently, the give away at EffectsBay.com is the Lave Mini ELC Cable pedalboard kit (15′ instead of 10′) with right angle plugs. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, read this post and enter to win!

I’ve been getting a few emails asking me how these cables worked, but rather than try to explain, Mark at Lava Cable did a great video showing how these cables work.

You can pick up the 10′ Lava Cable kit at Musician’s Friend for $89.95, or you can order more options directly from Lava Cable.

Popularity: 5%