Help pick out a multi-effects pedal

RW James

RW James

New member
I have a friend that plays keyboard in my band. He wants to spend his tax rebate on a guitar and multi-effects pedal. He's already picked out a Gretsch 5120 (I think) hollow body.

For an effects pedal he is looking at a DigiTech RP350.

He asked me for my opinion. I think I would be inclined to recommend the Boss ME20 for the same amount of money.

Does anyone here have any experience with either of these? Would you recommend one over the other?

Thanks
 
Re: Help pick out a multi-effects pedal

timorousme said:
I wouldn't recommend using multi-effects period. Just my thought.
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Well, I don't have one myself - that's why I'm asking for help.

Even though I use single effects, and I'm quite happy with them, I can certainly understand the attraction of multi-effects.

Anyway - my first reaction is that even if the Digitech is more versatile, the Boss will end up sounding better. I could be wrong.
 
Re: Help pick out a multi-effects pedal

I'd definatly avoid the Digitech RP series and honestly would never put a Gretsch through a mfx unit, really nothing but a tape echo, just isn't right otherwise. Just ins't a guitar that sounds good with effects as its such a distinct sound.


As awesome as Gretsch's are, they wouldn't be my first choice as a beginner either. Its a guitar that can only do very limited styles, and the Bigsby while a blast to play, can be a bit of a pain in regards to tuning issues.
 
Re: Help pick out a multi-effects pedal

millsart said:
I'd definatly avoid the Digitech RP series and honestly would never put a Gretsch through a mfx unit, really nothing but a tape echo, just isn't right otherwise. Just ins't a guitar that sounds good with effects as its such a distinct sound.


As awesome as Gretsch's are, they wouldn't be my first choice as a beginner either. Its a guitar that can only do very limited styles, and the Bigsby while a blast to play, can be a bit of a pain in regards to tuning issues.
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Thanks for the thoughts on the Digitech - I'll pass that on.

I'm afraid his mind is made up on the Gretsch. I tend to agree with you about the need for any effects with this guitar. I was kind of surprised that he wanted to do that. But he uses a Weeping Demon wah with his keyboard (inspired by Dream Theater) - so he kind of has his own ideas about effects. With my 335 I generally only use a delay or a chorus.

He's not an absolute beginner - he plays an acoustic-electric, and just wanted another instrument in his arsenal.
 
Re: Help pick out a multi-effects pedal

Me too, I'm not a fan of Digitech or Zoom pedals. I do like Korg, Boss, Vox and maaaybeee the Line 6.

Does he have an amp? Get the Vox AD15VT or something similar and you're all set.
 
Re: Help pick out a multi-effects pedal

lex666 said:
Me too, I'm not a fan of Digitech or Zoom pedals. I do like Korg, Boss, Vox and maaaybeee the Line 6.

Does he have an amp? Get the Vox AD15VT or something similar and you're all set.
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Good idea! He does have a practice amp - but it's probably pretty basic. I think the idea of an amp with modeling and effects would suit him well. I'll throw this into the mix for him.
 
Re: Help pick out a multi-effects pedal

RW James said:
Good idea! He does have a practice amp - but it's probably pretty basic. I think the idea of an amp with modeling and effects would suit him well. I'll throw this into the mix for him.
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The 5120 and those muddy as hell gretsch factory pups, along with the general sound of a full hollowbody it going to sound like utter rubbish on about 90% of the models/effects though is still going to be the problem

Playing a Gretsch on UK70, UK80, UK90, Metal etc just won't be a pleasurable experience.

Again Gretsch are awesome guitars, I LOVE them, but only for certain styles.


Hopefully you can have your friend actually sit down with one and try it with some effects and find out how limited they are before he buys.
 
Re: Help pick out a multi-effects pedal

I would invest a little extra cash and get the ME-50. I have one, and it's pretty good, and quite easy to use.
 
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