Re: general question about equipment

["Philip Pan" <7stringviper@earthlink.net>]

The overwhelming response from this experienced forum seems to point 
clearly towards laptop/software-based looping over hardware loopers.  The 
major expense here being a good laptop if you don't have one, (I don't).

However, the GNX4 manual clearly states that the machine in "Jamman mode" 
operates as a realtime looper without requiring an additional foot 
controller.  It gives you the option of either multiple layering on each 
of the 8 tracks and/or using each of the 8 tracks as an individual layer.  
The latter option gives you more flexible undo choices.  The optional foot 
controller allows you to use the stomp buttons on the GNX4 for patch 
changes (with all the modeling/effects built into the board).  So you 
could then loop live while also switching sound patches all with your 
feet, which is a nice feature.

The real test, of course, would be to get one and try it (within the Guit. 
Ctr. 30 day return period!).

Philip

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Dan Ash" <Daniel.Ash@Verizon.net>
To: <Loopers-Delight@loopers-delight.com>
Sent: Friday, August 03, 2007 11:46 AM
Subject: Re: general question about equipment


> as for hardware loopers, I've done quite a bit of research and it 
> seems that the digitech GNX4 at around $500 is the best bang for the 
>buck.
This looks like a very powerful processor, and the 8-track recording 
possibilities sound terrific.  However, it's not at all clear to me that 
the 'loop mode' is suited to live performance.  There's been so little 
discussion here of this unit and its predecessors that I think others 
have reached this conclusion, too.

I suspect (and somebody please correct me if I'm wrong) that the looping 
capabilities are limited to post-processing.  That is, you record or 
import a track and set a loop point using the controls manually.  It 
looks like the optional foot controller is dedicated to the 
record/stop/play functions.  Neither Digitech's description of this unit 
or the manual highlight a real-time scenario that includes looping.

Anyone have any hands-on experience with these processors?

I think the computer-based solutions running Ableton Live or Mobius have 
*way more* potential.  If you have a computer, purchase of a foot 
controller or MIDI keyboard can be your only cash expense. Mobius is a 
free download and has a great user community that will help with any 
questions you may have. 

I have a friend that's been trying to convince me to scrap my 60-lb rack 
and get on the Ableton bandwagon.  I'm very tempted, save for the $500+ 
price tag.  The Live! demo doesn't permit you to save your 
configuration, so is not very practical other than maybe to run through 
their tutorial.  So I'm leaning towards Mobius myself. 

Anyway, as BreachinThePeace points out - regardless of which of these 
paths you choose, I hope you have the *time* to explore the almost 
limitless possibilities of these tools. I spent nearly a year learning 
to 'play' the synth/looper system as an instrument.  It's an ongoing 
effort.

Dan Ash
White Plains, NY



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