I obtained this after my first effect-machine broke down in 2004, and I wanted it because of how it sounded, for its programming options and for practical reasons, i.e. getting two processors in one machine/unit. I send from Aux 1&2 (mixer) to processors A & B. I use one bank of programmed reverbs and effects, sorted by numbers and names, and choose which processor I operate (by turning the select knob). Processor B sends through the Repeater Loop Machine back to the mixer, so the effect signal can be recorded there if necessary. Some of the effects are used as programmed by the manufacturer, but most of the ones I use have been programmed (the different pitch shifter effects) or modified (the reverbs, chorus and flanger) by me .
System and overview
When I first started using the machine, I needed a system that seemed logical to me, in order to remember where I could find the different effects and reverbs. This is especially important during a live performance when you need to be able to make choices quickly. I have 34 different programmed reverbs and effects that I use at present, and I sort them in a (to me) natural order: from 1-20 I move from “dry” reverbs to longer reverbs, and also from short delays to longer delays. From 20- 30 I have different chorus, flanger and pitch-shifter effects, and from 30-34 some “special effects”. Furthermore, the aux 1 on the mixer is dedicated mainly to “reverbs and delays”, while the aux 2 is for chorus, flanger, pitch-shifter and “special effects”.
Usability
The effects can be programmed, named and sorted rather easily, and the names of the effects show up in the display. Ideally I would have one display and one program select button for each processor, but the lack of this is probably the price to pay for having one machine unit instead of two.