Best solutions for headphone-only, in-home rig

[Bullwinkle]

My only time to practice & play is after the kids go to bed, and headphones are a must. Right now I'm using a G-dec Jr, and it gets the job done, but I wouldn't mind something a little more sophisticated. And, I realized, I don't need an 'amp' in the traditional sense. What I do need is 1) a really good multi-effects processor & amp modeler thingie (podXT?) and 2) a genuinely practical, usable 'band in a box' gadget. (I know this can be done using some PC app, but I'd like to avoid that)

I'm pretty ignorant of what's on the market. Like I said I know about the pod stuff, and I also saw where Line6 has some 'looper' thing coming out that might solve my need for a rhythm section. I just got into electric guitar and just started taking lessons, so it'll be at least a few years before I need a good amp. Cost is a factor, but I don't mind spending some bucks if it means the right gear.

It could be one do-it-all gadget, or a combination of gadgets, but what rig would you set up for this purpose? FYI I'm a blues/rocknroll/rockabilly/country type person (not metal) if that matters.

[MBradford6288]

I have something very similar to what you're talking about, except I run it into a mixer, with my tv and computer. Very nice all in one all quiet sound.

For my money, the vox tonelab blows the pod out of the water. I have the older desktop unit they don't make anymore. Having footpedals is nice I guess, but you can probably pick up one of the desktop ones on ebay no problem. I'm also running a boss jamstation for all the backing stuff, works great, and I don't feel like the learning curve for programming the little bastard is that bad.

All in all, works great. Jamstation has a aux in for a digital amp platform, but like I said, I run everything through a cheap berringer mixer. That way, I can get a ton of signals into one set of headphones.

Also, invest in a good set of headphones.

YMMV,
Matt

[Tdot]

I have one of these and it's pretty cool.

You can use it:

• alone with headphones (or powered spekers).
• with USB to your computer.
• between the guitar and amp (like a pedal).

I haven't used the POD's but the new tiny one looks fun.

[Talmir]

I use the Zoom G2.1u... It sounds pretty decent throught a headset, has a built in drummachine, loads of effects.. might want to check that one out.

[brownshoe]

I use a Boss GT10 > AdrenaLinn III (for drums mostly through a blank preset) > Boss BR600 with wireless Sennheiser RS130 headphones.

I have a number of pedals in the GT10 return/send loop that I use from time to time.

The above gives me lots of options.

[Gilamnstr]

Boss Micro BR. All the above, plus it's a four-track recorder and has the capability to slow down songs/backing tracks without changing the pitch so you can practice/learn them. Onboard tuner, can store/play mp3's, decent onboard external mic, etc. Very cool little gadget.

[brownshoe]

Originally Posted by Gilamnstr

Boss Micro BR. Very cool little gadget.

I have one of these too. Very nice indeed! I've put it in my shirt pocket with ear-buds and taken it to music stores to use as a "effects/amp/tuner" when checking out guitars. I just ask them for a cable and I go for it .

[winny pooh]

For low bucks secondhand the Johnson J-station sounds fantastic. I way prefer it over any multi effects pedal.

[IronJoe]

Wow. I never knew the Black box or Boss Micro BR existed. Very cool.

Can you use them to record to your PC? That is, have it just act as an interface and then use multi-track software program to handle the recording?

Also, I saw that it says you can use the input for a microphone. Again, how well does it work if you want to put a vocal track onto the recording?

Do they both use batteries? (Sounds like the BR does if Brownshoe is taking it to the guitar shop in his pocket!)

Sorry for all the questions. Seriously cool stuff.

[Tdot]

Originally Posted by IronJoe

Wow. I never knew the Black box or Boss Micro BR existed. Very cool.

Since I have the Black Box-

Can you use them to record to your PC? That is, have it just act as an interface and then use multi-track software program to handle the recording?

Yes, it even includes the USB cable and Ableton software. I've played around with GarageBand, so it probably works with any software (it's even set for ProTools).

Also, I saw that it says you can use the input for a microphone. Again, how well does it work if you want to put a vocal track onto the recording?

Works fine, XLR on the back with phantom power.

Do they both use batteries? (Sounds like the BR does if Brownshoe is taking it to the guitar shop in his pocket!)

Black Box uses a wall plug, no batteries. Easily portable, but not pocket size. About the same size as the standard red POD. Small enough to keep on your desk, or carry around. I have mine mounted (with the included adapter) on a mini mic stand so I can change the height, and park it next to my chair or the sofa.

Check out the videos, especially Roger Linn at NAMM.

I have the first version, the current version called "Reloaded" has more models and effects. But here's a hint: the hardware is exactly the same, and you can download the free firmware update to make the original into the new "Reloaded" version!

Right now MF still has stock of the old version for $99, and the Reloaded version for $169. I think both include a free bonus pedal board too.