Boss GT-8 - need users' input

[alex1fly]

I'm coming close to pulling the trigger on this. While I plan on testing one out in the next few days before I do, it has so many parameters to tweak that even if I'm initially disappointed, I'm pretty confident that I'll be able to get the tones I want. I plan on also getting a full-frequency keyboard amp of some kind... it will be nice if GC will let me try the two together, but we'll see.

One of the main reasons why I want the GT-8 instead of a Tonelab or POD XT Live is the ability to run two amp models at once. Even single-guitar bands have multiple amps going on their recordings, and I think it would be an awesome tonal tool.

My biggest concern is the authenticity of high-gain tones. That's what I'm really gunning for. I've read some MFX guides, and they all say that when you run into a full-frequency amp, bone-crushing distortion is easily obtained. Users of the GT-8 and GT-6, how do you feel about Boss's reproduction of high gain tones?

 

[Yngwiestein]

Re: Boss GT-8 - need users' input

As good as any. High gain tones are easy with most modelers. I think it harder to get clean and overdrive tones that sound convincing. GT-8 is a fine processor. Just as good as POD XT. It sounds a little more tube like than POD to some people. I like the Soldano model and some of the cleans sound fantastic. I don't use modelers any more but if you are into them that is a good one. Maybe the Marshall models are better on POD.

 

[Benjy_26]

Re: Boss GT-8 - need users' input

Try the Triamp model. It's a pretty crushing rythm tone. I also like to use the resonator effects to tighten up the chunk. The RAT model's pretty cool to, when feeding some of the cleaner amp models.

BTW, the dual amp sims are very cool. Try mixing the Twin or JC120 models with something like the Recto or 5150 models. Brewtality and clarity all in one.

 

[Mincer]

Re: Boss GT-8 - need users' input

I have a GT-Pro. The high gain tones are the easiest to get- they sound awesome. Lots of tweaking too, so I hope you like to do that. Join one of the user groups out there for patches and tips too!

 

[alex1fly]

Re: Boss GT-8 - need users' input

Great. That pretty much sells me on the GT-8. I mean, I love my Spider III's Insane channel, which most people look down upon, so I should be quite pleased with the GT-8's models. I just wanted to make sure that the GT-8 delivers the quality in high gain modeling and not just the quantity. Tweaking is great, as long as you get the good ****! Sorry, but seriously, as long as I can tweak it to sound GOOD, unlike my Roadster which I can only tweak to sound OK, I'm cool with spending some time with the unit.

Does anyone use it with a flat response, full frequency speaker?

 

[alex1fly]

Re: Boss GT-8 - need users' input

Off topic a little, but is there a way to search the global Craigslist community for used items? I seem to only be able to search my selected community.

 

[Benjy_26]

Re: Boss GT-8 - need users' input

I use mine thru SWR California series acoustic amps. I preffer it with the tweeter off though.

 

[That90'sGuy]

Re: Boss GT-8 - need users' input

If you think these guys sound good, check it out:
http://www.myspace.com/tenetmusica

All the guitars were done with the GT-8 (atleast everything off of their new album "On the Line") and I see those guys use them for the crazy effects when they play live too. After hearing it being used by some real players, I think they sound pretty darn good. When I first heard the new album, I thought they were mic'ing their Mesas so I think it does pretty convincing high gain.

 

[alex1fly]

Re: Boss GT-8 - need users' input

I tried to play a GT-8 at GC this weekend, but it was running through a crappy speaker in their rack setup that had no volume or balls. The rack setup also prevented me from plugging in headphones, so I didn't really get to hear the unit. Bummer! Also, their XT Live had a busted LCD screen. Boo Guitar Center! I'll probably shop around for a used GT-8 and just pick one up.