Suggestions for all-in-one outboard effects unit?

[Stab Frenzy]

Oh and in case anyone hasn't been around here enough to know already: when aeon talks effects it's wise to listen.

[Rusty O'Hara]

Oh and in case anyone hasn't been around here enough to know already: when aeon talks effects it's wise to listen.

Second that.

I came in to make some comments / recommendations. All I can say is read aeon's post. Always excellent advice on effects from Ian.

[aeon]

Well, thank you both. This effects slut really does appreciate it.


cheers,
Ian

[Joey]

so aeon - how does the fireworx compare to something like an H3000, or even the kurzweil stuff? (i just picked up the fireworx recently and have been looking at an h3000 as well...)

[Elandroth]

If I go with the Ensoniq DP/4, is there a major reason I should strive to get the + model and not the normal DP/4?

[CfNorENa]

If I go with the Ensoniq DP/4, is there a major reason I should strive to get the + model and not the normal DP/4?

The DP/4+ is 24 bit. If I'm not mistaken, the DP/4 is 16 bit. There is some internet chatter about this difference, with some claiming that the DP/4 is a bit "dirtier," which some users prefer. Not sure how much truth there is to that (gotta wonder how many people have actually done A/B comparisons with the two units!)...

[Elandroth]

Hmmm definently something interesting to consider if that's the case. I think I'd prefer a dirtier version if that has some merit.

[aeon]

If I go with the Ensoniq DP/4, is there a major reason I should strive to get the + model and not the normal DP/4?

The DP/4+ is 24 bit. If I'm not mistaken, the DP/4 is 16 bit.

Both units have 16-bit AD/DA with 24/48-bit DSP engines.

To my understanding, the differences are these: The DP/4 has 1/4" I/O, the DP/4+ has XLR I/O; also, the DP/4+ has a few more effects algorithms that debuted in the DP/2 which are not present in the DP/4.


cheers,
Ian

[Elandroth]

I see - so torn between just getting a DP/4 quickly (reviews are all fantastic for it, everyone seems satisfied), or saving up for a Fireworx. GAS clouds the mind, I swear.


This has been a very enlightening thread though. ^_^

[CfNorENa]

The DP/4+ is 24 bit. If I'm not mistaken, the DP/4 is 16 bit.

Both units have 16-bit AD/DA with 24/48-bit DSP engines.

To my understanding, the differences are these: The DP/4 has 1/4" I/O, the DP/4+ has XLR I/O; also, the DP/4+ has a few more effects algorithms that debuted in the DP/2 which are not present in the DP/4.

Thanks for the clarification. Sounds like the internet chatter about the two units sounding different is without basis (not a big surprise!)...

[Overgear]

Both DP/4 have 1/4" on the rear, but the + are balanced, with a +4/-10 switch, and there is an XLR in on the front.

Another DP/4 lover, here.

[stikygum]

The Kurzweil Mangler is a fun one on the cheap.

[shaft9000]

Kurzweil Rumour has perhaps the best 'verb for the money, imho.
It always sounds smooth and musical with many sources, and it layers really well over multiple tracks. All signs of an excellent reverb.
H3000 reverb tends to like to be wilder and more synthetic; a more flat-out 'effected' sound.
The Rumour is outstanding for large spaces down to those subtle ambiences that you barely perceive - yet can make or break a mix.

of course using 2 or more units in series will likely cause addiction - to even more varied flavors and textures.... an easy habit to acquire once you've been down that road

[Rusty O'Hara]

The Kurzweil Mangler is a fun one on the cheap.

Kurzweil Rumour has perhaps the best 'verb for the money, imho.

Or just get the KSP8

[Dubersive]

Bar none, the Kurzweil Rumour. One engine's-worth of the KSP8 reverb that works well on just about everything, including the difficult task of rendering synthetic percussive ambience.


cheers,
Ian

I can't find this freakin' thing anywhere, not even on eBay. It's driving me a bit mad.