Zoom B3 Multi-Effects Review
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Pedal Info
Multi-Effects units are generally hit or miss. While you might find, say, a distortion and flanger effect you like, the tremolo and delay might not be as good. So, if you can find a multi-effects where the effects (and pre-amps if applicable) are at least usable, you've got quite a find. If you can locate a multi-effects unit with effects that are top-rate, then you've got yourself a keeper. Many bassists believe the Zoom B3 is the latter - an affordable bass multi-effects units with effects that are not only passable, but actually quite good.
The Zoom B3 is the bass counterpart to the guitar-oriented Zoom G3. It combines a virtual pedalboard along with an amp simulator, looper, and computer audio interface. Currently, the B3 offers 12 amp models including such classic amps as the Ampeg SVT, Fender Bassman, and Marshall Super Bass. The B3 has no shortage of effects with 99 effects including a slew of compression, EQ, filter, wah, overdrive, distortion, modulation, delay, synth, reverb, and combined effects. A 40 second looper and drum machine are standard as well. For those needing a computer audio interface, the B3 connects to both PC and Mac computers via USB. The pedal accommodates both active and passive instruments and contains both stereo 1/4" outputs as well as a XLR mono out. An expression pedal can be connected to the 1/4" input. Finally, the unit can be run on AC adapter, phantom power, or by 4 AA batteries. Optional "Edit and Share" software is available to edit patches and share them with others.
User Reviews
For a multi-effects unit, the Zoom B3 gets very high marks from users. Users praise the large number of effects and amps as well as the looper and audio interface components. Many bassists integrate the B3 into their current amp rig, using the effects alone, and are very satisfied with both the number and quality of the onboard effects. Many users have even replaced large pedalboards with the unit, noting that the all-in-one form factor makes it more user-friendly for gigs with limited floor space. Users also appreciate the numerous power options, noting that the battery life with 4 AA batteries is generous enough for any gig. The typical complaints are ones commonly found with any multi-effect rig (e.g. effect X is great while effect Y is mediocre). But on the whole, the Zoom B3 gets solid reviews from users.
Summary
Name of Gear: Zoom B3 Bass Multi-Effects
List Price: $339.99
Street Price: $199.99
Manufacturer Info: Zoom Corporation; http://www.zoom.co.jp/
Pros: Huge number of amps and effects; onboard looper and drum machine; affordable
Cons: Effects can be difficult to modify at first
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