Ugly Guitar Truth: JHS Sping Tank Reverb

According to the JHS website, the Spring Tank Reverb will be able to provide the washed out layers that only true amp style spring reverb can give you. The pedal brings you an arsenal of settings to tweak with an utilitarian simplicity and usability. The pedal features controls for Depth, Length, Highs, Boost (to control your overall volume) and Two independent and switchable reverb mixes called Tank 1 and Tank 2. Seems like a solid feature set from here, but lets take a closer look.

Springs

No, there aren't any springs in this pedal, but there is a lot more to this pedal than just simple reverb. The pedal sounds convincing. That right there makes this pedal a contender in the simple spring reverb 'boutique' market, but it has a few more tricks up it's sleeve. When running "regular" reverb, I do like the spring type. Plate, Hall, Room, and other types have their use, but the sound of springs just feels right to the ear for me. Real spring units are expensive and fragile. At this price point and quality, the Spring Tank is already a tempting option


Tanks


Why not just use the reverb on your amp? Well, if you are using an amp without a quality spring unit on board, then you're already out of luck. But the Spring Tank has the one-up on your amp's reverb. Tank 2 can be used as a second setting to be used on the fly. Set Tank 1 to your base level and then use Tank 2 for a huge, exaggerated sound, or anything else for that matter. What, your pedal only has one sound?


Boost


Yeah, this reverb has a boost in it. Any questions?


Other Features


Sure, this pedal has Depth and Length just like any other reverb, but you can set the brightness of your reverb so that it can sit in the back ground, or pop out in front. That not enough for you? Well, good. Because this pedal also has an effects loop that allows you to add addition effects just the reverb trails. You can even choose to only engage the effects loop when Tanks 2 in on. What more do you want?


Conclusion


Can you guess what I think about this pedal. I know this the Ugly Truth, but it's looking rather pretty from here. The Topanga, Dewdrop and Spring Thing are all in the same class as this pedal, but lets be honest. The feature set only makes this unit stand out. This pedal is well thought out and well executed. Personally, I get by with a digital reverb (gotta have my shimmer) but I have to hand it to JHS on this one. They put out a impressive pedal.

Ugly Guitar Truth: BOSS Katana Mini

On the heels of the announcement of the new 500 series pedals from BOSS, BOSS has also put forward a new Katana amp. In addition to the 50 watt combo, 100 watt combo and 100 watts head, BOSS will add a mini, 7 watt version to the line up. The Katana series has been praised since it's introduced. The mini version looks to be a desk top version with a 4 inch speaker. Is this a solid solution to those that are want for space or in need of low key practice gear? Let's look at the facts...

It's Small

Less than 10 inches wide and under 3 pounds, this amp is aptly named. It is also priced at half of the next size in the line up. The amp is impressively small. Small amps are not know for known for having the best tone. However, this amp is housed in a specially designed ported cabinet with a custom designed 4 inch speaker. Other features that you wouldn't think to see is a three band EQ, three channels, and delay. The amp might be tiny, but the feature list is impressive for its size.

It Stands Out

I've previously written about the Vox Pathfinder 10 and how impressive it is for its size and price. I'm very interested in seeing how these two amp compare. Considering that the Vox has very limited features, the BOSS seems to have the very clear advantage. The amp modes make this tiny amp one of the most flexible compact amp in its price range. You'd have to triple the price to find an amp in its size and better feature set. Out of the gate the Mini make a strong case for anyone looking for an extremely portable amp.

It Has A Lot To Live Up To

The Katana line has been praised by many. Not only is it one of the best values on the market right now, but many have preferred the Katana over much pricier amps. While lacking some of the key features the Katana line have been noted for, you still get three amp modes. If these are related by more than just name, then the Katana Mini is offering a serious price at this price point. 

Conclusion

Many, are critical of these smaller amps and their ability to be more than a novelty. I have been very skeptical of any combo featuring a speaker under 10 inches. However, the 6.5 inch speaker in the pathfinder 10 was surprisingly able to produce quality tones. These amp wont be able to fill a large room, but these amps are built for quick, portable jamming. Barring a major flaw, these amps are poised to bring the Katana value and acclaim to the mini, battery-powered, super-portable amp market.

Check out the hands on review of the Katana: Here!

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Ugly Guitar Truth: BOSS RV-500 Reverb

What many have considered a long awaited debut, BOSS has announced their first additions to the 500 series pedals. The RV-500 Reverb has been anticipated since the release of the original 500 pedal, the DD-500 Delay. While the DD-500 was a welcome update to the DD-20, the RV-500 (along with the MD-500) has now established a line of pedals that are poised to compete with Strymon and Eventide. With 32-bit processing, and 96 kHz sampling rate, the hardware under the hood is virtually matchless. 12 modes and 21 reverb types that are all highly customizable leaves little to be desired. The feature stack on this is impressive, so whats the ugly truth...

It's actually Not That Ugly

Visiting local music stores is a little bit of a hobby of mine.When I see a well stocked effects pedal display case, it is akin to visiting an art gallery. There are hints of style and theme (or lack there of) and you can tell the difference between pedal manufactures like artists' motifs. BOSS, for the most part, stopped stylistically somewhere in the 80's when they introduced their compact pedal line and the familiar shape of most BOSS pedal that we know today. The 500 series however complete redesigns the look of their pedals. The inspiration of the redesign clearly comes from some of their competition. The three button layout, knob layout, and even the stamped aluminum enclosure all seem rather similar to other high-end, powerful effect units. Did BOSS copy other effects? Well, that word does have a lot of stigma attached to it in the effects market, but yes they totally did.

It's Not A Big Sky Clone

Obviously, some of the exterior element of the pedal have been "borrowed", but this pedal is not trying to be a Strymon Big Sky or a Eventide Space. What it is trying to do is complete crush those exact pedals and any others that may stand to rival it. When Line 6 released the DL4 delay in 1999. BOSS took their time and came out with the DD-20. Like the 500 series. the DD-20 was on the front end of a whole line of pedals that would follow the same twin pedal format. I actually debated those two delay pedals back when they were two of the most powerful delays on the market. My decision then was the DD-20. The BOSS pedal beat the Line 6 in features and performance. It also cost less. It did take nearly four years after the DL4 to come to market, but when it did, it came to win. 

Too Soon?

If you remember when the DD-500 came out, it debuted at the same time as the RV-6. Needing a reverb pedal, I bought a RV-6. It has been my primary reverb ever since. While there was a sizable chunk of time between RV-5 and RV-6, it has barely two years between the RV-6 and RV-500. While two years is the standard dwell time between modern consumers and smartphones, many guitarists don't typically replace their pedals every other year. (I've been using my DD-20 for nearly 10 years.) However, there is probably little cross over is those that would buy the RV-6 and the RV-500 despite their apparent similarities. Instead of a update to their compact pedal, The RV-500 serves to entice the players considering other high-end, powerful units. 

Conclusion

I won't lie, I was very excited about the announcement of this pedal. This is probably the most exciting pedal announcement in the last 18 months. It seems that BOSS has been on a roll. The DD-500 was a huge step forward for them, the Katana amps are being praised over higher price competition, and now we get a powerful Reverb at a fraction of the cost of comparable units. It is hard to imagine that the RV-500 reverb will be anything other than great success.

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5 Ugly Truths About Being A Guitarist

If you are like me, then you began playing the guitar and had a very clear image of what 'playing the guitar' should have looked like. Very few actually achieve that initial image. You might have thought that you would make it big and play music with your heroes, or making a million dollars with nothing but your axe and sweet licks. Those ideas might be spectacular visions of grandeur, the truth is a little ugly...


About That Fame


Well, you might have guessed that it would be very difficult to make a name for yourself playing the guitar. The guitar is a wonderful instrument that many enjoy, but there is the problem, many enjoy playing the guitar. There is a crowd of people that are doing the same thing that you are. That is why there is such a large community of guitarist. Forums, Blogs, Stores, and other things exist because there are so many of us. This fact alone makes it difficult to stand out. It is difficult to play faster, smoother, harder, more technical or some other superlative more than everyone else. Just shear numbers would dictate that there is someone else that has been specializing in that one thing more than you. Not to discourage you from trying to progress, in fact, this reason is my personal motivation to keep pushing myself. Having said that, the thought that being the top of your particular ''field'' won't be enough to propel you to stardom


About That Fortune


Another common assumption is that learning and playing the guitar with just burry you in all the money. The logic here is a little funny here. Making money is a bad reason to pick up the guitar. I've spent countless dollars on my habit hobby. I have made a little bit of money hear and there, but fortune is not the word that I'd use to describe the amount. I'm sure I've spent way more than I've made and I doubt that will ever change. There are tons of working musicians that make a living with their craft. That's not completely out of reach for the average guitarist that devote enough time and energy toward it. Supplemental income is achievable, a living can be manageable, but breaking six figures is going to take a lot more than just talent. You'll have to constantly market yourself and network to make connection that will further your career.


Your Heroes Kind Of Suck


I mean, I don't know you heroes but I'm working with generalities here, so work with me. Let's assume that your hero has achieved that fame and fortune that we discussed earlier. This means that, in addition to the talent, they have a work ethic that has propelled them to were they are. They also have a personality and temperament that is complete different then what you image. It's easy to assume that you know the people that you look up to, but many times you can disappointed. I'm not saying that these people are all type-a jerks, but they are conditioned to a very demanding and time-consuming schedule. Depending on who you hero is, this is achievable goal, but you'll never know if that person will live up to your expectations. Also, depending on who your particular hero is, you might want to get on that, because they might die. That's why all my heroes are already dead. That way I don't have to try...


Other People Don't Love Your Playing


Yes, people enjoy the guitar, but growing up in my house, people did not always like listen to the same songs over and over (other wise know as practice). Most impressive guitar playing is enjoyed by other guitarist that know how hard it is to make those particular sounds. The common person will equate strumming chords and typically challenging arpeggios to one another. That's because they have to basis to compare the two. To them, they are both difficult. You could have Eric Clapton setting in you living room playing the guitar and, after a while, you'll ask him to stop. Even if you are very talented, sometimes the noise is just unwanted. Don't be the guy at the party to pick up the guitar and start playing Wonder Wall. for the love of Pete don't play Wonder Wall...


So Easy To Waste Money


I own so many things. Many of them relate to the guitar. I own several guitars... and amps... and pedals... cases... chords... books... *sigh* I've bought so many things. I like buying things. I also like buying guitar things. That cost money. Lots of money. Do I need to say more? Yes? Ok. A starting rig will run you a few hundred dollars, As you progress you will probably spend thousands of dollars if you continue to play. Acoustic or Electric, your rigs will get a little more complicated and refined (is that a contradiction?). You can also spend money on things that don't need. Extras are so temping. I've bought several 'boutique picks' because that's a thing now. They aren't necessarily better. My point is, just like many hobbies, you will spend countless dollars on your self... you self-centered narcissist.


Conclusion


I don't even know anymore. I've never given so much thought to why guitar playing might suck. It doesn't suck, in fact, it is absolutely rocks. I love playing guitar and I'll stop playing when I lose control of all of my limbs... Yes, I will start playing with my feet if I lose my hand in a harvesting accident.

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5 Ugly Truths about Guitar Magazines

If you have been playing guitar for a long time (we're talking 10-15+ years), the you know what it was like to read guitar magazines. They were to way to find more information about the thing you love to do. They had everything. There were articles about your favorite guitarist, gear reviews, tabbed out songs, and girls holding guitars... I mean, it was all you could ever ask for, right?

They're Out Dated


Of course they are. In the internet age, nearly all print media is looking like a dinosaur. people are writing and publishing their thoughts on the hourly basis. The best way to get the latest information about you preferred artist is to follow them on social media.


They're Not Exactly Ethical


I don't mean to slight the competition here, but let's face it. If your lights are kept on by the people you are reviewing, then do you think there is a bias? I know that if would be difficult for me to be completely ethical if I had to manage a relationship with the people I am actively criticizing. So called reviews in these magazines read like reheated press releases. Good thing you are more savvy than to believe those wood-pulp-pushers and you read blogs!


They're Old Fashioned


So, remember those girl and guitar that I mentioned way back in the introduction to this post? Well, turns out that they are falling out of fashion. They were once was a strong presence in guitar periodicals, but recently guitar-babes have been view as a 'tacky addition' rather than 'attractive feature'. Even NAMM, once the home of many a booth-babe, has done away with the distraction. This is probably due the fact that woman are becoming more of a part of what has been traditional a male dominated hobby. It probably doesn't come as no surprise, but woman don't enjoy the objectification of other woman... go figure.


Tabs Aren't That Hard To Come By

One of the main attractions of these magazines are the transcript songs in the back of them. Unless you had a very guitar ear and a lot of patience, these magazines were a god-sent. Now-a-days we have website on top of website trying to shove their tabs down your throat. Not only that, but you have a dozen different versions to choose from. Honestly, the internet has not been nice to print media, but that's the way the world works.


There Will Be Boxes


... of magazines.  Anyone with a subscription to a magazine will tell you that sooner or later you will have a pile of paper that needs to be tamed. Typically this requires a large box of holding. Once that box is full (because it will be full) you'll put it in you closet... until you move it out to make room for you next box of magazines. Then, you'll put the boxes in you garage, or attic, or somewhere until that is overflowing with glossy pages on top of glossy pages. This will continue until the ghosts of all the murdered tree come and take you away to answer for  your crimes against tree-kind.


Conclusion


Keep reading my blog. Duh...

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More Ugly Truth About JHS Pedals

Love them, or hate them, JHS Pedals have made quite a name for themselves. JHS has been designing and building effects for a few years now and there is a long list of high profile names that have endorsed them. They claim to be played by Andy Timmons, Ryan Adams, and John Mayer. So they must be doing something right. However, they are also doing something wrong and that's what I want to talk about.

Shame


JHS has a fair sized collection of effects that bare there name. Overdrives, distortions, Delay, Reverb, Boosts and more. All of them pedals demand a price that fans of boutique pedal are accustom to. $250 for an overdrive and boost is middle of the road for the market, but I've notice a few new faces in the line up that seem not to fit in the typical 'JHS' mold.  There are half a dozen or so utilitarian type pedals that seem affordable next to the other offering by JHS. So if they are a fraction of the cost of the others, then what's the problem?

Shame


These pedal include a Remote (Tap), Stutter (kill switch), Amp Box, Mute Switch, A/B, Buffer, and Splitter. "Great!" You say. Cheap boxes that do little jobs. That's not an ugly truth, that's just a good heads up. I'm sure that's what any JHS fanboy would think, but let look a little hard at the little boxes. When we do, we discover that there is little in these boxes that make it worth what they want for them. I know that the 'cost of materials' debate is not a new one (ie it only cost $40 for all the parts that go into a pedal. why do I have to pay $200 for it). Lets take the Red Remote for example. It is literally a footswitch wired to a 1/4" jack. A few dollars of materials and an equally few minute of work, but put JHS on it and it's a $35 pedal. The Stutter is no different. It is just the same switch between two jacks. The Mute switch adds an LED to the formula and charges an extra $10 for it. Wire that up slightly differently and you get the JHS A/B Box. The buffer does add some actual signal processing, but for the few part that it cobbles together you pay another $25 for it. Sad. Just Sad.

Shame


I know what JHS is thinking. Not everyone can afford their pedals, but they want everyone to own a piece of their gear and represent JHS on their board. Make something for the little guy or the beginner. Simple tools of the trade that everyone needs. Or they might just feel like they can charge a premium for simple boxes filled with mostly air. It kills me that I know you can get the same pedal for half of what they want for the JHS version. Maybe I'm missing something here. Maybe there is more to it. But from what I can see, this is just a case of taking advantage of you customer. I wish there was something redeemable about this 'pedals', but I just don't see it.

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Ugly Guitar Truth: EHX Canyon Delay/Looper

This little pedal flew completely under my radar. I paid attention to all the NAMM 2017 debuts but somehow didn't even get a hint of this pedal. Tell me if I'm wrong, but did you see anything about this pedal before now? Regardless, here it is, and we have to talk about it. Thankfully this pedal should drop on the 13th of February (2017) so there isn't much waiting for this one. As for price, well, there seems to be a little confliction as to what can be found online. Musicians Friends had posted a price tag of 158 USD, but EHX has been caught tweet a cost of 139 USD street price. So with the information that we have, Is this pedal a yay, or a nay. It's mighty morphing Ugly Truth Time...

It's Small...


Alright, small can be a good thing. Lots of good things come in small packages, but delays that occupy tiny spaces are usually lacking in the feature department. I mean, look at the Strymon and Eventide well-endowed delay boxes. Those are feature packed and massive. So this little box couldn't have that much to offer... Except it kind of does. 11 modes give you more than a BOSS DD-20. It can loop for a full minute and you get 2 "secret knobs when you hold the Tap/Divide button. This has to be one of the most feature laden delays in the size box. No, it isn't stereo. But you can control the rate and depth of the modulations. Correct me if I'm wrong, but that's a new trick for a compact delay.




Don't EHX Have A Lot Of Other Delays?




Yes. Yes, they do. The Memory Man/Boy/Toy line is extensive. And they do have some cross over as far as price. There is even a DMM (Deluxe Memory Man) setting on this pedal. However, this is a digital pedal. Kind of different for EHX, but I guess they were just waiting until they really had something that they liked before they put one out. Analog Delay users are going to analog, digital are gonna digital, that's just what happens. What has a lot of people looking at this pedal is the long list of modes and the affordable price. It could also be the neat tricks that this pedal is capable of that has people interest as well.. hmm, guess there is a few thing to like about it...



Wasn't There Another 3 Second Delay Released Recently?




Yes. I even wrote my thought on the DOD Rubberneck here. I like the DOD delay a lot. It has a lot of cool things going for it. It also has a $250 Street price, so fair is fair. The DOD pedal has features that this pedal can't touch. The titular feature, Rubbernecking, is pretty unique to that pedal. It also has a built in tap feature. Admittedly, the DOD looks cooler. But If I had to go with one delay on my board and also had to choose between these two pedals, then I would be picking the Canyon. The Rubberneck is a pedal that I'd be proud to own, but if I had to choose one, then I'd pick the one that can Loop, Reverse, Shim, Octave and Verb.

Conclusion




I like this pedal. I like this pedal a lot. You could probably tell that already. This pedal would be a great addition to a pedal board that wasn't already fitted with a delay. I'd even pick this one over the BOSS DD7 and the smaller Flashback delay. If you are looking to upgrade your delay but don't want to get one of the larger "do everything" units or if you looking to save a buck, then this pedal would be something to look at seriously. Should you drop everything and get this pedal for its wonderfully healing properties? Of course. But try to remember that this people isn't as powerful as one those others that have all the blinking lights and MIDI and extra holes... Oh, it has a dumb name too...

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Ugly Guitar Truth: Digitech CabDryVR

Can I start off by saying how much I don't like the name of this pedal. The CabDryVR. No spaces. That's the way it is on the official Digitech site. It drives me crazy. I assumed it was pronounced 'Cab Driver', but really was unsure until I heard the Digitech rep at name say the name. I absolutely hate the way it is spelled. Saying that, I do, kind of, like the pun and color scheme of the pedal. This is one pedal you will not confuse with many others. On to the next bit...

It's A Thing

When I saw this pedal, the first thing I thought is that it is a turd. Just DOA. This pedal won't sell because no one is going to buy a pedal that is basically a blanket for your tone. They don't want a pedal to make their amp sound like it is run through a cab. And then I remembered my experience with the Marshall CODE and how it's cab sim really worked. Then I though about the stage applications of have a 4X12 sound come from a 1X12 Blues Jr...

Conclusion

The very first cab sim I ever encountered was a Digitech RP100. It sounded terrible, but there is hope yet. I've heard a cab sim do rather incredible things, so here's hoping that this little pedal has bottled the magic. Also, let me give a shout out to all those pedal running ampless rigs. Plugging straight into the mix creates some unique challenges and this pedal is probably a god sent to them.



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Ugly Truth: Line6 Spider V Amps

Alright so here's the thing, there is a palpable hate toward this entire range of amplifiers. Nearly every guitar player has played through one of these amps, or at least have heard one played. The Spider line has taken more hits than Louisville-Slugger, and has served as the whipping post for anyone putting digital modeling amps on blast. Line6 has doubled down on the Spider name. They have released the fifth generation of the Spider despite any of the negative feedback. Perhaps they've listened to the criticism and produced a better product. It is clear that the stigma still lingers over the Spider name. Do these amp deserve this kind of hate? Well, here is truth:




They Are Well Equipped

The features on the Line6 Spider V amps are actually one of the most interesting things about them. Sure, there are a lot of different sounds on board, as there are with all the amps in this range. The addition of control via mobile device is robust and intuitive. It feels like there was a lot of time spent on interface of the app. Probably the biggest feature that gets overlooked on these amps is its ability to function as an acoustic amp. Equipped with a tweeter, this combo can do more than model electric amps and effects. This alone makes it a little more than meets the eye. In addition, there is actually an integrated wireless receiver with their Relay Go System (In the bigger units). This makes them wireless ready right out of the box.  Also, these amp are compatible with the  FBV control pedal. Making them very easy customize and switch between settings. The third gen  FBV control pedal actually barrows from the Helix motif, color coding the each footswitch according to the effect that it t triggers. Again this is only available on the larger units. And they (the Relay Go and FBV) aren't "features" as much as they are options, as in optional, as in they don't come with it, but you can buy them... making this sizable purchase into a more sizable purchase... causing the whole thing to become rather...

...Expensive

Yeah, even compared to the other offerings in this range, the Line6 Spider V is pricey. Coming in at the higher end of the watt/dollar range, these amp command a hefty sum for what seems like a checkered legacy. That's before you start looking at the optional foot control pedal. (that will set you back another $250) and wireless adapters. It's hard see why the Sider V has to be head and shoulders above in price, when they are competing directly with unit that costs (in some cases) hundreds less. Marshal, Black Star, Boss and Vox all have recently updated their line of make-all-the-sounds boxes and appear to be an attractive value in comparison. And while we're talking about being attractive...




They're Ugly


Yeah, they look like cosmetics were not even considered. I'm not sure if they were going for a modern look, but they failed. I'm not the biggest fan of new gear trying to cop a vintage vibe, but it appears that the Spider V is just phoning it in. It is minimalism and sleek-ish, but it's not winning any beauty contest. Objectively, function trumps form in most cases, but when deciding what amp will set the stage (literally) for your overall vibe aesthetics have to be considered.


Conclusion


While I will concede that this amp often get blamed for a multitude of undeserved sins, some of the blame is well earned. Many guitarist start their musical journey with one of the Spider amps. The popularity of these amp is undeniable. When starting out, these amps promise an feature-laden do-it-all machine. However, after acquiring experience many user discover areas where these amps suffer. The truth is, that these amps are fantastic for a beginner looking to experience a multitude of sounds without have to invest thousands into a collection of gear that would ultimately go underutilized. Just like every other product out there, these amps have a undying following as well as detractors. While features and connectivity are growing and becoming more user friendly, these amps will probably never ascend to their aspired heights. What we need to do is to realize that there is no magic bullet, and if there were, it would extremely expensive. These amp have a place, but they are probably not the only amp you'll ever need. More specifically, the Spider V is not even my top choice of modeling amplifier. If you are looking for a amp with a solid reputation, check out the Vox Valvetronix line. If you want something more innovative and inexpensive, look at the BOSS Katana. The Spider line IMHO is a chronic underperformer.

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Ugly Truth: TC Electronic Wiretap Riff Recorder

Have you ever wrote a riff that you were really excited about, then got distracted (by a shiny object or whatever) and then go back to your guitar to only realize that you can remember exactly what you play? TC Electronic has got your back. Building a recorder that fits on a pedal board is legit. I was pretty excited about the iRig, but quickly realized that its not exactly conducive for everyday use.


This pedal is smart. With the Wiretap app on your phone, you can connect via Bluetooth to trim, transfer, or share riffs. Your phone can also act as a remote if you don't feel like actually messing with the pedals controls.


The Ugly Part


For the most part this pedal is pretty solid. It has a street price of $99, but its not giving you much more than a go between for your guitar and your phone. Not exactly sure how much internal storage the pedal actually has, but it does record in 24-bit audio. The similarities with the Dito pedal are there. I'm not sure if this couldn't have been rolled into a 'Dito with extra features' type pedal, thus giving it more functionality and practicality. The hardware alone might be a little underwhelming, but the success of the pedal is going to come from the quality of the app and if it can transition into a live-tool rather than home-only type deal.

Ugly Truth About TC Electronic Sub N Up

TC Electronic has come out with a new pedal right before NAMM. The crazy pedal gurus at TC have developed an octave pedal that might replace all other octaves. Why might this effect replace whatever octave your are currently using? Because it can probably do whatever it is that you are doing with yours. How can I make such a blanket statement as that? Because, TC Electronic has equipped this pedal with their Toneprint tech. This makes it one of the most versatile octaves on the market. What's more is that it is affordable. $129 for the last Octave pedal you'll ever need to buy (probably).


So Here's The Ugly Truth


The ugliest thing about this pedal is the color scheme and design. In a cage full of pedals, this one sticks out like a sore thumb. Most pedals are slick and color coded. This one is a little bit of an eye sore. The only other thing that could be said is how this pedal functions. The analog purist with not enjoy the tech under the hood, but anyone who plays an octave knows that they hate chords. Playing through a three-knob Boss Octave is almost like fighting a bear. Overload it and you get nasty noise. If you are looking for that, then you know what you need, but there is nothing I want out of a Octave that I can't get from the pedal.


Even without hooking up this pedal to a computer to unleash the full power of this Toneprinting-beast, then you still have a superior sound octave. You may want to consider a paint job though...

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Vox AV Series: Update

I first reported about these amps when Vox announced them back at NAMM this year. They Stood out because of there styling and features. They are analog, solid powered combos that look rather striking. The looks alone were enough to make me interested. I've been able to see one in action and I have to say that I'm am impressed. I was almost dismissive of the new line. I wasn't the biggest fan of the little modeling amps that came out recently. I was afraid that these guys were still coming from that prospective. This does not seem to be the case. These are something akin to the Super Champs that Fender put out. They replicate the front ends of other various amps, sans digital modeling.

Starting at just over $200 these amps are poised to be an excelent first amp, or a great step into valve-ish amps. If you need or want a variety of amp sounds but don't have the funds to buy half a dozen or more amps to make those sounds, then this amp could be an excellent fit. I liked the Super Champ amps and these seem to be in the same ballpark. In fact, I'd pick up one of these on the looks alone. The fact that these amps can emulate so many others and even the biggest one in the lineup comes in under $500 doesn't hurt either. Vox has put a lot of work into making great little amps. Even the the cabinet design is made to make you forget that (unless you have the 60 watt version) you aren't playing though a 12" speaker.

All in all. these amps are stacking up to be a step above what I was predicting. Kind of a foot-in-mouth moment, but I'm glad it is. The world need more great amps. This quite possibly, could be one. At least, it might be a good choice for many musicians.

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Ugly Truth: MXR Reverb

Can you believe that MXR has been making pedal for a million years and they've never put out a reverb? Ok, So maybe not a million years, but for a company that has been around as long as I've been buy pedals, its a wonder that they haven't made some type of Reverb just so that they have an option for the MXR loyal. Now they have, what do we think about it?

It's Limited

With features like 6 different types of reverb (with 2 shimmers!) you might not call it limited right off the bat, but look a little closer and you realize that when you compare it to the BOSS RV-6. It comes up wanting. This pedal is not stereo (unless it has a stereo input... which it does! So disregard) and there is no expression input(Edit: there is one! JK everybody.). Yep, looks like the RV-6 mops the floor with this pedal. Looking online and the only price I can find is $199. Seems like a bit much for a pedal that comes up lacking compared to the $150 RV-6 (or, you know, covers its bases compare it it...)

Other Things

Look, I like MXR. They have provided us with some great pedals, but sometimes you feel like some things are left overlooked. The power jack typically found on the top of most pedals are found of the side of most of MXR's (and not always the same side) The selection of the reverb type is done by pressing a button. This isn't a major make-it-or-break-it thing, but it is out of the ordinary. It's not like you can't fit six modes on a rotary switch (BOSS has 8!). So, what gives? Don't want to stray away from the three-knob motif established by the Carbon Copy? I mean, I dig motifs as much as the next guy, but this just doesn't make sense to me.

Conclusion.

I dig it. I want to hear these shimmer settings. They might be the only thing that saves this pedal from being too little too late. Reverb pedals are always exciting to try out. A subtle setting is important, but just as important is the limits of these pedals. Most any reverb will give a little verb, but they distinguish these pedals. The EHX Holy Grail adds a bizarre metallic sound when full tilt. The RV-6 by BOSS will drone and swell. Let's wait and see what this pedal will do when pushed.

Edit: I did here these two shimmers (pad and epic) They sound amazing... is it worth an extra $50... pretty darn close...

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Ugly Truth About The New Keeley Compressor

Keeley has been impressing us since they first started modding BOSS pedals. They were on the cutting edge of the big 'mod' boom. Then they developed a line of original offerings that continues to innovate and expand. Keeley have been able to offer effects that compete with any other pedal for top spot. Their new compressor is likely to be no less impressive. It already has a few things going for it. So let take a closer look.

It's Tiny

Yes, it is another tiny pedal in a 1590A enclosure. Although I do not like skinny, tiny pedal like these, the Keeley compressors have been high regarded as some of the best. Little is known about the particulars of this pedal (it's not even on the Keeley website yet) it resembles the C2 Signature compressor. That particular model is out of production and resembles the ROSS/|Dyna, two-knob style Compressors. So this pedal seems to take a little inspiration from the C2 and adds a Mix knob, which I Find to my liking.

Too Many Compressors

Keeley is no stranger to the compression game. Their four knob compressor was probably the most sought after compressor for a period of time. It's features and fidelity filled a gap in the market that took some of the largest effects manufactures by surprise and introduced guitar players to compressor that made little or no compromises with their tone. This pedal does have some parallels with another pedal in the Keeley line-up, or rather a part of a pedal. The Steak and Eggs pedal by both Keeley and JHS has been praise three ways to Sunday. Notably, the tiny compressor and the compression side of the Steak and Eggs share the same features: Level, Sustain, and Blend. Is this Keeley capitalizing on the success of their joint venture with JHS?

These Pedals Are Too Familar

Take this pedal and put an unfamiliar logo on it. Does it still seem desirable? These tiny pedals have been flooding in from China. My local music store has adopted a line of these tiny guys. They sell for about $40. Put this pedal next to a Chinese pedal and tell me if it's worth two and a half time the price. Maybe it is, but maybe it's not. You could argue that Keeley holds it's value and is a better investment and that dealing with an American company will offer you better customer service. You would be right on all accounts. But when looking at the direct utility of the pedals themselves, it might become difficult to justify the price. (even though the first time I saw the asking price of one of these I thought it was a steal for a Keeley Compressor)

Conclusion

I'm not going to pretend that I don't like this pedal. It's probably the most excited I've been about a compressor, perhaps ever. It's not often that compressor get a lot of hype. They are used as tools, like EQs and boosts. There just isn't the colorful language given to these pedal as there is to overdrive and distortions. But, this pedal has all the makings of a great option if you are looking for a Compressor. It is small, so if you run your Comp 'always on' then you don't have to worry about turning it off and on and how uncomfortable that can feel. The price makes it no more expensive than many others that offer similar (or even fewer) controls. It maybe different or flashy, but it may just be the best option for compression to come out in the last few years.

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Guitar World Magazine Will Stop Publishing Photos Of Half Naked Women

It's True. According to an interview with Reverb.com, Guitar Magazine with stop publishing their annual "swimsuit edition" buyers guides. Is this good news? Is this an Ugly Truth? Well, it's true and that's enough.

What This Means For Me

Being that I haven't bought a guitar magazine in years (even longer for a buyers guide) This doesn't really effect me all that much. I do remember back when I was a young guitar player growing up in a conservative home and being pretty straight laced. I felt a little embarrassed buying and reading a magazine with ladies in their fishnet stocking prominently displayed. At the time, the ladies where only a mild distraction. The major sin I committed holding that magazine was gear lust. I read and reread those pages. I memorized spec and descriptions. I imagined what it would be like to own those guitars. I wondered about the tonal varieties that the different materials could offer. Every adjective painted a word picture that was almost tangible. And then I discovered the internet and anything that these magazine could offer was just a few clicks away.

What This Means For You

Honestly the entire paragraph will be conjecture. So here goes: If you are a well adjusted human being, then you understand that the day are ogling women as they pose with whatever it is someone is selling have begun to wain. Even Playboy, the grandfather of the smutty magazine, has gone to non-naked ladies in their magazine. If you depended on a guitar magazine to realize your over-sexualized guitar imagery, then I'm sorry, you have one less option. Also, you might what to talk to someone about your feelings. Like a professional, you need to talk to a professional... a doctor... not the other kind of professional. You know what, if you take advice from a blog about guitar, then I honestly have no idea what you need. Anywho, There is another group of people that this decision can effect. Ladies. If you are a lady that is so inclined to pick up and read such a publication, then you no longer have to do so with examples of you own anatomy on every other page.

What This Means For Guitar World

In the interview linked above, the reasons sited where economical. I'm sure paying ladies to take most of their clothe off and taking pictures of them does not come cheap. Now they have just copy and paste from any music supply website and call it a day. So, it looks like a win-win. GW doesn't have to waste time and money on, what many see as, sexist content and we get a magazine that serves as a hard copy of what we already look at online. Well done. It only took decades to make that seemingly obvious decision. Good Job.

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Ugly Truth About The Eletro Harmonix MEL-9 Mellotron Emulator

So Mike Matthews and company have been at it again. Offering us yet another pedal that we didn't even know that we wanted, EHX have served us a new polyphonic pedal that emulates... Mel... Gibson? Wait, that can't be right...

That's Right, It's a Mellotron Emulator... Whats a Mellotron?

Not only is this a pedal that we didn't know that we wanted, it is a pedal that emulates something that we don't know what is. The description provided by EHX never says "mellotron" outright. I'm guessing that it is trademarked by its makers. So, the suggest it. A mellotron, as I have recently learned was a type of keyboard that reproduced different voices by looping sample that have been recorded to tape or disks. So no one knows what a mellotron is, so why emulate it? Turns out that the sounds of this antiquated beast have been used by bands such as Genesis, Beatles and The Grateful Dead. Chances are, you've heard one of the those bands, or you may even like these bands. More importantly, bands around the country, and probably the world, are paid good money to cover these bands, so now guitarist are able to emulate the actually instrument played rather than play the riff while sounding like a guitar...

Another 9 Voices

If you have followed EHX's theme with these pedals, There are 9 voices in each box, this isn't surprising. It is a little frustrating. At this point, it's like buying a keyboard with 9 voices only for another keyboard to come out 6 months later with another 9 voices. The hardware in the pedals are staying the same. It's the software that gets the revamp. Why can't we shove a few more one and zeros in there to hook us up with a few more voices, or all the voices, or let us edit and create the voices... Come on Mike.

There Is A Pattern Here

It now seems like there is going to be a "9" pedal every 6 months or so for the rest of our lives. As long as we keep plopping down $200 for these things. Electro Harmonix is going to keep selling them to us. I'd love to see something like TC Electronics' Toneprint tech in EHX's polyphonic emulators. Let us edit and customize the 9 voices that we get to play with.

In Conclusion

I was impressed with the video that EHX released with this pedal. They have the promotion for these pedals really nailed. Show someone playing the pedal and make it sound great. If you make it recreate an iconic lick 'spot-on' then that's a bonus... There are several sounds in this pedal that sound great on the video. The Choir voices are pretty stellar. Also, I was impressed with the last little bit of the video where they strummed a acoustic guitar and made a guitar+fill sound. Making this a pedal that has a range of applications other than 'make you guitar sound like ________".

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Boss BC-1X Bass Compressor

This year at NAMM we saw two of the biggest pedal makers, BOSS and EHX, put out Bass Compressors. If that seems a little strange to you, you are not alone. The bass player is often forgotten in the effect conversation. I've known many bass players to play with nothing other than a tuner on the 'pedal board'. So we now have practical tone tools debuting from two highly respected manufactures. The boss pedal seems to be the more sophisticated, but it is the hands down winner?

It's Shiny

Yes, it's pretty. Pearl British racing green is a nice color, and the chrome plate and knob make it standout among the other BOSS pedals. It also has a LED clipping indicator. This is all fun stuff, and makes it look... special. But there isn't really a big difference between this pedal and other BOSS pedals. It's still the same old BOSS box. Last year BOSS blew us away with the DD-500. The pedal seemed to be a new direction for box. But it looks like they are still getting more mileage out of that old 'soft touch' box.

Boss Has A Track-Record

So, I have really tried to like BOSS compressors. They were the first ones I've tried. I've tried the CS-3 and a Japan made CS-2. Both where underwhelming. They were very similar except that the CS-3 had some more flexibility. The Vintage mojo really wasn't there for me. Others swear by them... whatever. The Bass Comp might be head and shoulders above the other blue comps, who knows. As for me, I will have to give this a thorough run-through before fully embracing this fancy box.

It's High Dollar

Like I mentioned earlier. There were two Bass comps that were paraded around at NAMM this year. This one and the EHX Bass Preacher. The biggest difference between the two is the price. The Boss is twice the price of the EHX. Is it Twice as nice? I don't know, but it is sparklier.

Conclusion

Given our options with Bass Comps, it would take a lot for me to endorse this option. I am a Ross/Dyna comp guy. The Compressors that Boss have in their line have done less than impress me. The Soul Preacher is more my speed. The cost is another factor. It would have to beat the cheaper option hands-down to warrant such a cost. Yes, this pedal has some sparkle, but is that worth the extra cost? No... no it's not.

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Ugly Truth About Vox AC30 Custom Head

Yes, Just before NAMM this year, Vox announces the release of their AC 15 and 30 in a Custom Head.

From Vox:

The VOX AC Custom Series now available in classic head and cabinet set.

Based on the design of the classic AC30, the new VOX AC30CH and AC15CH are now available as a set of amp head and cabinet. Featuring a new reactive attenuator, these AC custom series units provide even more flexibility for live performance or playing at home.

Amp heads and speaker cabinet that inherit the classic VOX look and sound

Just like the other amps in Custom Series, the AC30CH and AC15CH heads utilize 12AX7 tubes in the preamp and EL84 tubes in the power amp.

The V212C speaker cabinet completes the package and features two 12-inch Celestion G12M Greenback speakers for that classic British tone.

The Normal and Top Boost channels each have a dedicated volume control, and the Top Boost channel also provides Treble and Bass tone controls. In the Master section, there’s the distinctive VOX Tone Cut and Master Volume that allow you to obtain a variety of sounds ranging from the extraordinarily sparkling VOX clean tone to a powerful, raw overdrive.

The familiar VOX Tremolo and Spring Reverb from the Custom Series are also found in the new AC30CH and AC15CH. These effects can be switched on/off using the optional VOX VFS2A foot switch.

What is a reactive attenuator?

This is a newly designed attenuator that uses VOX’s Reactor Technology to send speaker drive information to the attenuator, optimising the interaction of the speaker and amp at any volume. This allows the speaker and amp to behave in the same way at stage or bedroom levels, delivering a sense of power and tone that cannot be obtained from conventional attenuators.

So Vox is putting out a head and cab for their flagship amps... again.

They've Already Done This

That's right, Vox have offered heads for the AC30 and AC15 in the past. It hasn't been news, but here it is 2016 and they are back at it. So why now? I've always liked have a separate heat and cab. It allows me to plug into different speakers without any hard work, it separates the work load of carrying an amp, and I think it looks cool. But Vox has offered these very amps in head and cab combos before, maybe they didn't sell well and they stopped for a time. They are back now, but does that warrant any excitement?

They've Changed Things

They've given these amps an attenuator. Vox states that it uses their "reactor technology". If by this they mean the same tech they used in their "valve reactor" amps, then keep these thing away from me. The VR series of the popular AC amps were some of the worst takes on the hybrid amp concept I've ever heard from Vox.

Thing Have Stayed The Same

The Reactor Technology sounds scary, but the fact that they have given the AC15 head an effects loop is disappointing. If they had, I'd might look into changing out my current AC15 combo for a Head and Cab unit. It looks like they didn't take the time to give the little bother any upgrades, besides that attenuator... bummer

These amps might be great, but I guess we will have to wait and see when we can actually get out hands on some of them.

The Ugly Truth: Electro Harmonix Lester G

Today we found out that EHX has been at it again. This time they've developed a Rotary Speaker Emulator. That is a fancy way of saying it is a Leslie pedal. There are many pedal out there that help you sound more like a spinning horn, so why have EXH now released their own? Electro Hamonix is regularly adding to its already extensive line of effects, and becoming more and more well rounded with each addition. Let's take a look at what we know about this pedal.

ehx.com

It's Massive

It looks like the Lester G is a big boy. Compact in some respects, it sports eight knobs and two footswitches, it has a lot going on. I looks to take up about as much space as the Memory Man or any of their "multi-effect" pedals. Which aren't nearly as bloated as the Boss twin-type pedals. What it does have going for it is its looks. This is a good looking pedal. It seems that EHX are stepping away from there bare-metal ascetics and giving their pedals a more "premium" look. The white/cream painted boxes and matching knobs are  nicely contrasted with the graphics. Everything looks top notch, which is nice because there is a lot of 'it' to look at.

It's Pricey 

The Lester G is reported to debut at $298. That's higher than their other emulators, the "9" series. That's POG money. The Lester K is more affordable, but you are still looking at $237. There are other pedals that do similar jobs, but not with the flexibility that we see in these pedals. I not saying that this pedal is or isn't worth the price, but if you want the most flexible Leslie emulator with expression control, then you're going to pony up the cash.

It's Not Alone

Yes, this pedal is fantastically flexible, but I already own a rotary. It has a slow and fast function like the EXH. What the Lester G has going for it is its depth. Well, depth and a compressor. It looks to be an MXR or ROSS type comp with Attack and Sustain. With an added bonus: squash. The Lester K is free of all those features. Making it stand out less than it's big bother. 

Conclusion

The final word is not a word. It's the sound. Close your eyes, and listen to the sounds of this pedal. If you can't convince your self that there is an actual spinning horn in the room then move along...

The Ugly Truth About PedalboardPlanner.Com

I was messing around on the internet the other night and I found a website that is pretty much the best thing ever. That is, if you are like my and you can stop rearranging your pedal board. The site is pretty simple. You have a long list of pedals to choose from, and a rang of pedalboard (all by pedaltrain). You are allowed to configure them any way you want to. You can even arange the signal path. I could probably spend hours on the site as it is. Although, there are some ugly truths to be told.

1. Its All PedalTrain

Go figure, a site that is produced by PedalTrain only features PedalTrain model pedalboards. The good news is that they support their older model boards as well. They give detentions of the boards so you know just what size you are dealing with. This is helpful to those that don't have a PT board but can find a size close enough to simulate their board. Or, if you are like me and planning a new board, you can get an idea of the size of board you need to fit all your pedals. I'd like to be able to specify your detentions, but I guess you can have everything.

2. The List Of Pedals Is nearly exhaustive. 

Many of the pedal that I own were on the list. Some were not. A lot of the Boss and EHX stuff were there, but others weren't. This isn't a big deal, you can approximate the size of the pedal and stick a pedal of the same size in there, but the whole signal chain thing become pointless at that point. If there were really slick, then they could allow you to upload pictures of your own pedals and add a title and all that. Just a thought.... but a pretty good one.

3. This Site Is Way Too Much Fun

Not only can you arrange the digital representation of the pedal you own, you can fantasize about the pedals you want to own. This is aided by the list of more boutique pedal that are present on the site. Not all obscure pedals are there, but all lot of the more popular ones. I spent close to an hour before pulling myself away. I was in the middle of a pedalboard overhaul at the moment, but I can see my self coming back just to fiddle around. The best thing is that you can download and save your arrangements to use as a template when you actually get to moving your pedals.

4. It's Not As Good As The Real Thing

At the end of the day, all you've done is play on the computer. Your pedals are still mismanaged and you need to get back to doing something important. Not only that, but now you want to go play with your toys... way to go.