Multi Effects Units
Back in the late 1980s I bought a Yamaha REX 50 multi-effects unit to help get the sounds I wanted with my electric without having to get a whole lot of different pedals. I liked it a lot, not only because it featured fifty different basic sounds (hence the name), with variations possible of several parameters of each effect's components, but also the ability to combine diferentefects and create customized sounds. I was able to dial in a few sounds I really liked, and my basic go-to sound was a combination distortion and reverb that produced a strong, flexible, expressive sound that allowed me to just play and use musicality to take it the rest of the way. (Distortion was for "fattening," reverb for sustain and flow.) I devised some sounds for certain songs, like a distortion/delay combo that I adjusted the delay time to coincide with a blues shuffle tempo - pretty sweet. I liked being able to customize sounds like that.
The wee beastie served me well for nearly 25 years. I picked up a Korg something-or-other at a yard sale that wan't as good, but got me through for a while. I got a Fender Super Champ XD amp that has a bunch of built-in effects - though only 2-3 factory presets for - and it does have that warm tube sound. But since I'm currently biking to gigs, it's a bit of a hassle transporting - doable, just a bit clumsy. I was thinking of getting another multi-effects unit which I could use with a smaller amp that has no effects.
Does anyone have suggestions for what to look for? I liked the size of the Yamaha, and it would fit in my bikes milk-crate-cum-basket, but I'm sure there have been some improvements in technology over the last quarter century. Our local music shops have nothing of the sort, so I'd be buying online, on faith. I'm looking to spend less than $100, though I'm flexible. I wouldn't mind getting something lightly used, if it opens up possibilities.
Thanks in advance!
But that's just my opinion. I could be wrong. - Dennis Miller
Furthering Mandolin Consciousness
Finders Keepers, my duo with the astoundingly talented and versatile Patti Rothberg. Our EP is finally done, and available! PM me, while they last!
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