Mister Maggoo goes electric

Phil Halton · From: Holyoke, Massachusetts, USA

Catchy topic eh?

Prior to 5 months ago, I never used an amplifier--let alone effects units--in my entire life (you don't need them for banjo). Now, with the steel, I'm using a Peavey NV112 with an SGBB, and I'd like to start using some effects like delay, distortion, and maybe a little chorus.

So let me put it this way--what effect pedals or multi-effects units could you use blindfolded? I'm looking for units with dedicated knobs and buttons instead of menu driven units with LCD screens.

I'm quite serious about the blindfolded business. If all you could do was feel and memorize the position of various knobs, buttons and sliders, what unit would you be able to get the most use out of? I realize that I'd probably have to forgo the use of presets, as they usually rely on scrolling through lists of names on a LCD screen, but aside from that, what would be the most tactile effects unit?

I hear that the Boss ME-50 fits the bill in this regard. I know that Boss pedals are a favorite among steelers--does the ME-50 have the same quality effects as the individual Boss pedals? Any other primarily tactile multi-effects units I should consider?

Thanks
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Dion Stephen · From: Kansas, USA

line 6 or digitech Mr. Green

Phil Halton · From: Holyoke, Massachusetts, USA

Dion, Are those units completely tactile? I thought they were menu driven. Like I said, I need something with dedicated knobs and buttons for all functions and no real need to rely on LCD display menus.

[quote="Dion Stephen"]line 6 or digitech Mr. Green

[/quote]
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John Groover McDuffie · From: LA California, USA

I have the Boss ME 50 and I think it could fullfil that requirement. I am generally very satisfied with both the ease of operation and the sound quality. Although it isn't without weaknesses in either category, it's a great tool. And thinking about it, Yes it would be possible to operate it in an almost completely tactile manner, once you learned the functions. There are a few functions that couldn't be selected by touch alone, but would be easily by touch and ear combined.

It would probably sound GREAT when fed by a SGBB, too! I'd love to try that, but I use tube amps anyway.

Phil Halton · From: Holyoke, Massachusetts, USA

Thanks John,

I was pretty well sold on the ME-50, and your appraisal of the unit clinched the deal for me. After reading your explaination of crossover distortion, I have to say, you're opinions carry a good deal of weight for me. There was mention of a TCE Gsharp unit in another thread which I'll check out before buying. Any knowledge/opinions on that unit in this regard?
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John Groover McDuffie · From: LA California, USA

I don't know anything about the t.c. electronic G#, but my experience with other t.c. electronic gear has been that it was always top-drawer. So quality wouldn't be an issue.

Looking at the G# online, it appears to have a nicer selection of delays, modulations, and reverbs, (and I bet they sound great) than the ME50, but no EQ, comp, dist/overdrive, or wah/etc. It does look like the interface would work in the manner you are looking for.

The Boss probably isn't as stellar in sound quality as what I would expect from t.c. in general. it depends on what features you need.

I also second the recommendation of The Music Center in Kenosha WI for any brand new gear that you want to purchase via mail order.

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