Zoom G3

Started by Elantric, August 13, 2011, 10:06:10 AM

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Elantric


The Zoom G3 has such a Great user control interface and very high feature to cost ratio I had to order one. ( under $180 on eBay )
At live gigs I require FX gear with point and shoot user controls, without wading thru three tiers of sub menus just to slow the tremolo speed down.

Read more about the Zoom G3 here:
http://www.zoom.co.jp/products/g3/

This makes a nice auxilery guitar FX/amp sim solution for GR-55 owners who play live gigs too!
Quote


Features

Zoom's G3 Guitar Effects and Amp Simulator combines the ease of a stompbox pedalboard with the power of a multi-effects processor and USB audio interface. With complete control over individual effects and amp modeling, you can change your tones on the fly for both stage and studio.
Three stomps. One pedal.
G3 offers three large LCD displays and corresponding footswitches that form a graphical interface, allowing you to utilize up to three stompbox and amp effects simultaneously. The interface has also been simplified with three control knobs for each display. This intuitive design makes creating, saving and rearranging the effect chain of your own sounds a breeze and provides easy navigation in live and studio settings.
Evolution of tube amp simulation.
A newly developed sigmoid curve clipper re-creates the smooth clipping of a tube amplifier's waveform. With its faithful tube distortion, G3 can simulate amplifier sounds, including clean, crunch and full-gain tones that are authentic to the original models.
Super-real amp modeling.
G3's 13 super-real amp models range from vintage to the latest trends in amp technology, each with its own distinct cabinet modeling that can be used to alter its tone characteristics. By combining amplifiers and cabinets from different makers, you can digitally design your own custom rig. G3's modeling technology provides the best tone for both live performance and direct recording.

*Only one amp model can be used at a time.
94 stompbox models.
G3 has 94 diverse types of stompbox presets, including some of the world's most popular guitar pedals. You can use up to three effects in any combination. G3's wide range of effects includes distortion, compression, modulation, delay and reverb. Its HD Reverb uses DSP power to produce a rich resonance that rivals outboard gear used in professional studios and live setups.

*Only two effects can be used in some combinations that feature amp models or HD Reverb.
The newest generation of DSP: ZFX-IV.
G3 utilizes the all-new ZFX-IV DSP effects processor. This generation of ZFX boasts amazing power, upgrading everything from sound to function and operability over previous versions. By using 32-bit floating-point processing, G3 possesses amplifier sounds that are more realistic than ever before.
Looper function with 40-second phrase recording/overdubbing.
G3's Looper capabilities include 40 seconds of phrase recording and overdubbing. The "sound-on-sound" function allows you to layer guitar sounds as many times as you want in real time. You can use looped sounds as simple backing tracks or create a "full band" feel with the built-in drum machine and DSP effects for a live solo.

* When the UNDO/REDO functions is enabled, the recording time is limited to 20 seconds.

USB audio interface for DAW recording.
G3 operates as an audio interface, letting you record directly to your computer via USB. All of your sound settings used during rehearsals or live performances can be recorded to your favorite DAW such as the included Steinberg Sequel LE recording software. The pedal's direct monitoring capability eliminates any latency problems, assuring realistic studio conditions and hassle-free operation.

100 versatile effects on-board.
Select from 100 built-in DSP effects to create your own sounds on G3. Try its renowned compression and wah pedals, chorus effects with stunning depth and resonant reverbs. Or let your tonal imagination run free with dynamic flangers, tremolos, harmonized pitch shifters, multi-tap delays, reverse delays and much more. G3 can store up to 100 of your original creations without a hitch.
Integrated drum machine.
Choose from 40 different rhythm patterns, including 4, 8 and 16-beat, shuffle and many others. The tap key also makes it easy to directly set the tempo and start a jam session anytime.
Balanced XLR output for DI use.
With its built-in XLR output, you can avoid DI boxes completely and directly connect G3 to any mixing console and maintain a balanced, high quality signal. In addition, a convenient Pre/Post switch can direct an effected sound to the main outputs while passing the guitar signal directly to the XLR output without the help of an A/D converter.
Output modes for stage or studio.
Different output modes allow you to optimize G3's tones based upon its connection with your personal rig. In addition to modes for the front inputs of combo and stack amps, G3 can be used as a preamp when connected to a power amp input. By selecting the direct mode with a line connection, you can achieve a realistic guitar sound that is optimal for live use and recording.
Add a G3 to your pedalboard.
G3 is perfect for use in combination with traditional stompboxes. By adding a G3 to your pedalboard, you will decrease the size and complexity of your setup, while expanding your system's effects and modeling capabilities.
Accurate, real-time Tuner function.
The pedal's Tuner function offers smooth, real-time response with precise guitar tuning accuracy. Whether you're in the middle of a performance or practicing alone in your room, simply hold down the pedal's center footswitch to start getting your strings back on pitch. In addition, G3's LCD displays and LED indicators make the feature easy to use on a dark stage, where you can also mute the output for seamless tuning.
World's fastest patch change speed: 1ms.
With G3's amazing 1ms patch change speed, you will never miss a beat. Change from rhythm playing to a solo in an instant by simply pushing the switch.
Runs on batteries, AC adapter, or USB power.
G3 can operate on three different power sources: AC adapter (included), batteries or USB bus power when plugged into your computer. Four AA/LR6 alkaline batteries provide over six hours of continuous playing. Whether on stage or in the studio, G3 gives you reliable power options.
Super-low noise design.
G3's signal-to-noise ratio of 120dB and noise floor of -100dBm virtually eliminate background noise. G3's ZNR noise reduction removes feedback and other unwanted sounds, providing you with beautiful tones and natural release.
Optional expression pedal and footswitch.
Connect an optional FP02 expression pedal to G3 and control effect parameters such as wah, pitch shift, volume, drive gain, modulation rate and delay/reverb mix in real time. Use an optional FS01 footswitch to tap the tempo used for the drum machine, looper and effects. You can also use an FS01 to mute the Delay/Reverb input or turn Delay Hold on or off.
Free Edit&Share software for Mac/PC.
Zoom's Edit&Share software, which is available as a free download for G3, allows you to create, edit and save your personalized amp and effect settings on your computer. Use its "radar charts" to access visual representations of each preset's tone characteristics, amp/effect sorting feature to easily locate your sounds and drag-and-drop options to rearrange patches for editing purposes. With Edit&Share, you can download the latest patches online, as well as share your patches with others.
? Windows is registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
?Mac and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.
? Steinberg and Sequel are registered trademarks of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH.
? Manufacturer names and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. The names are used only to illustrate sonic characteristics and do not indicate any affiliation with the Zoom Corporation.
? All features and specifications are subject to change



vanceg

That does look really nice!  I just bought one of their new H2N recorders...Hasn't arrived yet, but I'm looking forward to receiving it.
I like Zoom.  Nice stuff.  Always enjoyed their effects.


Quote from: Elantric on August 13, 2011, 10:06:10 AM

The Zoom G3 has such a Great user control interface and very high feature to cost ratio I had to order one. ( under $180 on eBay )
At live gigs I require FX gear with point and shoot user controls, without wading thru three tiers of sub menus just to slow the tremolo speed down.

Read more about the Zoom G3 here:
http://www.zoom.co.jp/products/g3/

This makes a nice auxilery guitar FX/amp sim solution for GR-55 owners who play live gigs too!

ProgMystic

I use a G9-2tt in a tribute band I play in and its an awesome device. Only downsides are the fact that it doesn't have a switch under the expression pedals to turn the assigned effects on and off and the prehistoric editing software is totally lame. The sounds and performace of the board are worth it though.

I would assume that this G3 is going to be a good investment for those in that market.  :)
Once I thought I was wrong, but I was mistaken.

Elantric

#3
Zoom G3 is  Amazing

My favorite patch so far
Spring Reverb > Booster > Spring Reverb

The touch response, dynamic range and sound of this unit is very good.
Its battery powered USB Guitar <> Computer interface, 1millisecond patch delay latency, 
Its an IPad audio Interface (when used with Camera Kit and a powered USB Hub!

With its all metal chassis, point and shoot user controls, all in one, floor stomp box replacement  =  among  my best purchase decisions this year.

Thanks to this pedal handling the straight up guitar tone chores , i can finally start using the GR-55 live at gigs - feeding a Traynor K4 .!!!


aliensporebomb

Under $180?  How on earth can they sell something like that for so cheap?  Stuff is getting really capable really inexpensively it seems.

Are there any samples we can hear of how it sounds?
My music projects online at http://www.aliensporebomb.com/

GK Devices:  Roland VG-99, Boss GP-10, Boss SY-1000.

Elantric


MCK

I love the G3... Yet another well crafted demo of this amazing unit.

http://www.youtube.com/user/HenkyBacker#p/u

Needs to be mentioned that this is just a factory supplied patch out the box. Usually they don't sound this good so its a pleasing change.

rcf1956

Hi guys, I'm a long time Zoom owner with a 9002, 9030 and G2. I'm thinking about getting a G3 but I have a couple of questions first.

On page 29 of the G3 manual, it states that the looper stop mode can be set to fade out. I presume the fade has a fixed time, but there is no indication of the actual time of the fade? Please could someone check the fade out timing for me?  :)

Can Bendcho be set to give a very subtle chirp (rise up in pitch) at the start of the picked note - this effect always sounded great with a little distortion and delay, on my half rack Zoom 9030?

rcf

Elantric

#8
Read the G3 FAQ here:
http://www.zoom.co.jp/faq/g3

This link here is a better resource for Zoom G3 info
http://zoomforum.us/viewforum.php?f=18


Perhaps the Loop Fade time can be determined by viewing these Zoom G3 Looper Test Videos




Elantric


Elantric

#10
New Zoom G3 Rev 2.0 Firmware is here:

http://www.zoom.co.jp/downloads/g3/software/

New Zoom G3  Rev 2.0 Manual is here:
http://www.zoom.co.jp/download/E_G3_G3X.pdf

QuoteVersion of the following as additional functions, has released version 2.00.

Corresponds to the simultaneous use of 1.6 effects.
Add a setting function ON / OFF 2. Auto save.
Add the amp modeling of 3.9 type.


How to Update
After extracting the ZIP file that you download, please refer to the (PDF)'''' Firmware Update Guide.

Considerations "patch data"
When you run the firmware update to version 2.0, the current patch data will be erased overwritten with the latest patch data. Before the firmware update, please perform a backup of the patch data using the "Edit & Share". Data was backed up, except for some by performing the conversion, can be used with version 2.0. Please check the details (PDF) Firmware Update Guide.

jburns

funny, i just re-hooked my g7 up last night. they zoom pedals are closely related to roland editing and cosm sounds imo just at a way cheaper price. the newer g5 is shockingly similar to to new boss gt-100. i always wondered if the same engineers are designing for both companies. the g7 and g9 have a 12ax7 tube (2 tubes in the g9) w/ tube gain and boost controls and both have midi in/out for pc changes and etc. my g7 has aux in, stereo 1/4 outs, control in for another expression. its very useful and the expression pedal is built 10 stars.
my g7 i think can be found around 200 bucks, it was 400 when i got it new few yrs ago when it came out. and the non-midi g5 is half the price of the boss gt100.

both pedals on the g7/g9 have a pedal switch for turning on and off, as well 2 modes, one which used the footswitches to change patches and one where the footswitch change effects/amps off and on. they also have a dedicated "function" switch thats assignable. everything is midi cc assignable too!

tekrytor

@jburns
Good bang for the buck with Zoom. Thanks for the report on the G series differences.

OT: BTW, I noticed you also have an HPtx2500. FYI, I just upgraded mine to Win7 OEM a few weeks ago. Friends kept suggesting I upgrade from Vista, but I wasn't sure how the touchscreen would work with Win7. But it works fine. I bumped the RAM to 4GB and I am pretty happy with it, for an aging pre-iPad tablet. PM me if you have questions on this topic.
SY-300/BeatBuddy/VoiceLive 3/GR-55(v1.50)/33/1/50/700/VGA-7/V-Bass, Yam-G10, GPK-4, DIY X-Bee HighlyLiquidCPU "Cozy-Lil-Footie", FCB-1010, other MIDI stuff, Godin Freeway SA and various other GK equipped controllers, Sonar X1, Audacity, KXstudio, Misc devices

jburns

thanks. unfortunately my hp laptop has some video problems where a get black screened and have to restart. turning on the hp, i literally have to give mouth to mouth cpr to the fan during startup. oddly, it was more money than my iMac lol. i wanted to switch to xp and was told by them that theres no touch drivers for xp for that laptop. i guess it makes sense that windows 7 can be put on them since their new touch computers have 7. its def good to know. i just have alot of "pending" tracks and programs/files its impossible to reconfigure and in the state its in, i don't want to loose any information. its a great tool for a digital music stand+ vg editor.

Elantric



Random access to all your Zoom G3 patches only requires a MIDI controller/interface and a laptop with freeware such as MIDI patchbay installed.

Elantric

#15
Here is a really usefull site with excelent mods and tricks for Zoom G3/G3X/G5 users.

www.ashbass.com/AshBassGuitar/Zoom/index.html?Effecturator2000.html.

MCK

Just updated my Zoom G3 with the v2.1 firmware. Can't believe how much this already great unit has been improved with this free update. Thank you Zoom.

admin

#17
After having perfect vision until age 45, now that I'm  58 and have propecia, (old mans "blurred vision") - I REALLY like the legibility of the Zoom G3 High contrast graphic LCDs - so much so that i bought a G3X too (a restock for $149), with the idea of daisy chaining both G3 and G3X together, and use them side by side. These days I must use gear i can actually see and read the controls on stage - and lately I'm playing these shows with 6 acts on the same bill, and we play our 45 minutes then leave  - so 30 seconds for stage setup time works well!

This works better than the G5 , since both G3 and G3X run on batteries and make for a very flexible FX board -

I'll have to look at the new 2.1 update and what it provides

==
http://www.zoom.co.jp/products/g3/software/
Released as following bug fix and function update version.

1. When using internal RHYTHM, hi-hat does not sound sometimes with particular TEMPO setting.
2. Supported Windows 8.
3. Supported USB 3.0.




MCK

Sorry to hear about your vision. I can certainly relate having worn spectacles all my life. I agree that the screen on these things are great!!!

The v2.1 code seems to be improving in many areas but most notably its taking the 3 effects/amps in a chain on G3 to 6. So you can have 5 effects and then an amp etc on each patch. There is a new scroll function introduced using the patch up & down buttons on the upper part of the unit. Some added amp models etc as well. Overall a great cost/value proposition getting even better with a free update.

I agree this would make for a great quick & easy gig rig.

Mrchevy

Hey guys, thought I would through my 3 cents in on this G3X I just picked up last week. I am using my GR55 and GT100 together for my studio but I have been working on getting my amp ( Fender Ultimate Chorus ) set up for jams and gigs. For that I am using a Fender Mustang Floorboard. I really like the Mustang but it is limited on the amp and pedal models it has so I thought I would pick up something extra to add into the insert loop of it for more versatility. Enter the G3X. It definitely adds to the arsenal and has some good models to work with, how ever, I am finding that I have become extremely spoiled by Roland/Boss with there endless control and features.

Con #1-The Mustang floor has an insert loop, but it is at the front of the signal chain and can't be moved so anything added by the G3X is pre preamp. This is ok for using  OD, DIST, COMP, GATES, EQ, and AMP MODELS from the G3X but not optimal if I want to use the G3X's MODULATIONS, DELAYS and REVERBS unless I bypass thru the Mustang for patches I want those G3X effects.

Con #2-The G3X has NO midi control at all so changing patches on it is very cumbersome, much less in sync with the Mustang ( or any other pedal ) is not possible.

I have worked my brain to the bone, trying to come up with a viable working solution without having to add more hardware but can't find one. My opinion of the G3X is that while it does have some very good sounding amp and effects models, It is a useless dinosaur in the control department. A simple midi control feature would have made all the difference and a viable tool.

One thing I did figure out is that with the Mustang, If you go Mustang input with the guitar, then Mustang SEND>G3X INPUT, then Mustang R/OUTPUT and G3X L/OUTPUT to the AMP STEREO RETURN ( or L/R into board), you will have a dual preamp setup which is killer sounding. This also has limits as you still have no global switching ability and both pedals volumes have to be controlled separately. For $200 bucks, I will probably keep the G3X and settle with what I got but would have liked more user friendly control with it.
Gibson Les Paul Custom
Epi Les Paul Standard
Gibson SG 50's prototype
Squire classic vibe 60's
Epi LP Modern
Epi SG Custom
Martin acoustic

Princeton chorus 210

GT100
GR-55
Helix LT
Waza Air Headphones
Boomerang III

And, a lot of stuff I DON'T need

Jim Williams

You might want to try implementing you GT-100 hooking it up to your amp with the 4CM and set the cabs to "off". That way you use the COSM pre amps with your amps power amp and speaker cab, I'm sure the GT-100 has a nice effect selection. you then can Connect the GR-55 headphone out to the aux input of the GT-100 and you can get a decent live mix. The only problem is the guitar out in the GR-55 kills the guitar tone a little.
Skype: (upon Request)

Everything from modeling to the real deal, my house looks like a music store.

Mrchevy

#21
Yes, i could easily use the GT100 and have in the past, but i am at the point now where I have the GT and GR integrated into my studio setup and have it all just how I like it. I know it's just a matter of disconnecting a few cords and a quick setup with the amp ( once I get all my presets for the amp built) but I have the mustang just sitting around and just wanted two completely different setups. One in the studio, and one that is grab and go. If i were doing a lot of giging or regular jams then yes, the GT would be my main squeeze without a doubt. Actually, it still is my main unit along with the GR as most all I do these days is play in the studio but, on the occasion that I do jam or gig I'll have a setup with my few basic patches ready to roll. Plus it gives me a change of pace. As great as the roland stuff is, I like to play something different once in a while, kinda get back to basics sort of thing. I actually still had my GT10 for a while connected to the amp. I kept going back and forth between the GT10 and mustang floorboard and kept running into the same old thing, (GT10, tweak, tweak , tweak and maybe play a little- the Mustang, play, tweak, play, play, tweak, play, play). I finally decided to trade the GT10 for a new G3X. I messed with it some more today and found a little different way  of signal routing. I still go Mustang SEND to G3X input but now run G3X headphones out to Mustang aux in, then L/R out of the Mustang to stereo return on amp. Still have to control both volumes separate but I maintain stereo imaging from both units now. This gives the dual preamp scenario however both units are basically two separate MFX's into one amp. Doesn't do much for wanting to use a G3X OD with a Mustang preamp but does make for a big sound for a garage jam  ;)
Gibson Les Paul Custom
Epi Les Paul Standard
Gibson SG 50's prototype
Squire classic vibe 60's
Epi LP Modern
Epi SG Custom
Martin acoustic

Princeton chorus 210

GT100
GR-55
Helix LT
Waza Air Headphones
Boomerang III

And, a lot of stuff I DON'T need

Jim Williams

I understand, I also have a lot of different gear. I mostly use my GR-55 for my home studio and I am going back and forth with my GT-100 and POD HD500X with 4CM to my Marshall for live use. I prefer a real tub amp and cab over any modeled sound. When you do a side by side comparison there is no other way to go. I am saving up for a G-System but the pods effects are very top notch. However there are days I prefer the control of the GT-100.
Skype: (upon Request)

Everything from modeling to the real deal, my house looks like a music store.

Toby Krebs

I am hoping to get an effects loop kit from Grangeramps for X-mas that I can install in my JCM800 1x12 combo so I can do something similar to what Mr. Williams is doing using either my GT-10 or Line 6 M13 in 4 cable method.I have several other good tube amps with effect loops but that old Marshall is so much better. And yes I agree a tube amp kills the modelling stuff. But a lot of places I gig at don't require much more than a decent modeller into an FRFR speaker.I recently got my GT-10 out of storage and played it through two FRFR speakers and was amazed at how good it sounded! Great unit! I am playing a new regular Saturday night gig at a small bar/grill and need a small footprint and something I don't care about having beer/barf /feet/food /waitresses etc...dropped on it. That means it's time to get out the POD HD300 for sacrifice!

Mrchevy

I thought I would do a follow up on this G3X after 2 weeks of using it with my amp as I'm sure the world has been waiting with antici.............................pation, of my thoughts  ;) . This is just my opinion and apparently different than those of the masses. I think this thing is basically a teenie bopper toy. Using it has taken me back to the days of DOD pedals and cheap guitars and amps. It seems to lend itself to the beginner rock gods that play 3 chords over and over in garages at ear bleed levels for hours on end while smoking pot and drinking Pepsi, and then finally shutting it all down and thinking " DUDE!!!.......That was an awesome jam". Yes, that was me 30 some years ago ( WOW, where did the time go).

A few years ago, I got a GT10 and discovered the Boss gt forum. This is when I really started to learn about quality sound and tone. It is also where I " virtually" met Gumtown who turned me on to the GR55 and brought me here to VGuitar forums where my new learning experiences grew in leaps and bounds. I have seen reviews and demo of the G3X, some of which pitted it against the GT10 and GT100........."REALLY"?  I've messed with the G3X for a couple of weeks now and got what I thought were decent/ok  sounds out of it, mostly with the amp but did spend a " little" time with headphones and my studio setup. Yesterday, I decided to play around a little with my GR55/GT100 setup and then is when the opinion struck me as the G3X being toy like. There is no comparison period. "But it only cost $200 vs $1400 for the other two". True. Also true is you get what you pay for. Which directly coincides with function.

I have to say that I now know that I have been assimilated into the Roland/Boss Borg collective. While Boss/Roland do have some minor shortcomings in some of their amp models, if you want a Marshall'ish  or Vox'ish or Fender'ish sound, it's there. If you must have a real Marshall, Vox, or Fender sound etc, then buy a real one. Most modelers shine in some way or another but the question really is not "does it sound like X or Y" but more "does it sound good". That is in the beholders ears. To my ears the G3X is typical of a cheap MFX pedal. If you are one who has a distinct sound and you get it from this pedal, great. But if your like me who likes to explore the outer limits of music and boldly go where no guitarist has gone before, your not gonna get there in a shuttlecraft like the G3X, you need the Enterprise. I will be beaming the G3X back to earth tomorrow. Wait for it...........................wait for it.................................. ...Kirk out!
Gibson Les Paul Custom
Epi Les Paul Standard
Gibson SG 50's prototype
Squire classic vibe 60's
Epi LP Modern
Epi SG Custom
Martin acoustic

Princeton chorus 210

GT100
GR-55
Helix LT
Waza Air Headphones
Boomerang III

And, a lot of stuff I DON'T need