Portable Multitrack Face-off: BOSS Micro BR vs BR-80 - an In-depth comparison features
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- Опубліковано 30 вер 2024
- This is a video comparing the BOSS Micro BR (1st generation device, circa 2006) to the BOSS Micro BR-80 (2nd generation device, circa 2011). They are both very versatile portable studios with Drum Machines, Vocal Effects, and Multitrack recording capabilities. In this video we discuss the pros and cons of each unit and why you might want to chose one over the other.
It compares the overall hardware, interfaces, features and accessories.
CORRECTION: The maximum SD card size for the 1st generation Micro BR is a 2GB SD Card. Make sure your Micro BR is running the latest firmware to ensure best SD card compatibility. Also, for best results, always initialize a new SD card using the Micro BR.
UPDATE 1 - (NOVEMBER 2020): I just noticed that the 1.04 firmware for the (first generation) Micro BR is very hard to find, so here is a link for it. The following firmware was apparently (as I recall) a Beta firmware by BOSS that did not have wide distribution for some reason but was sent to a few people directly from BOSS Tech Support to resolve (unknown) issues with some devices). I found it originally on SongsBuilders.org's forum, but they have since re-organized their site so I do not have a direct link to the post discussing it. However, If you go to their site you might be able to locate the discussion via the forum search tool (which might be only available to registered users as I recall). In anycase, this firmware is capable of allowing the Original (1st Gen) Micro BR to utilize SD cards upto 2GB (instead of the original 1GB limit). I have personally installed this firmware myself and was successful in using a 2GB Toshiba SD Card in my Original (first gen) Micro BR.
WARNINGS:
1. Upgrading Firmware can brick your device, so download and install the following firmware at your own risk.
2. THIS FIRMWARE IS NOT FOR THE Micro BR-80 !!! (That device can already utilize much larger SD cards and installing this firmware on that device would very likely brick (kill it).
(If you have not already done so, Read above warnings, and use at your own risk !!!
Also, if you do install it, PLEASE post a comment below regarding your experience)
BOSS Firmware 1.04 for the Original (1st Gen) Micro BR: ufile.io/02p9p0wc
UPDATE 2 - Regarding getting Micro BR/BR-80 to be recognized by Windows 10 (source: thread post below by Raymond Upenieks):
"BR 80 and this applies to many BOSS and Roland products and Windows 10.. if you connect to internet it should get download a generic driver but if not the below should work. Make sure that you checkmark that you agree with terms."
www.boss.info/...
Please check out my other videos and subscribe to this channel !
the first absolutely terrific in depth comparison video I've ever seen on UA-cam. most of these types of comparison videos are done by 9 year olds in their bedroom with absolutely no understanding of how the Equipment Works. You should Forward on to boss. They have nothing anywhere near this good available
Thanks for the comment. I am glad you found this video useful!
I gigged solo & group with my Roland Cube 40, on a custom created trypod stand using both 1/4" impots, guitar & mic. I don t have any idea how many Roland/BOSS gear i own.I've never been disappointed by your exceptional excellent equipment. Did you create the "Amp Can"? Cutting edge
Technology has come from Roland/BOSS. Thank You. very much! Very Impressive, very impressive.
Wrap a piece of Scotch tape around the battery and fold one end on to itself to make a pull tab
Good idea, thanks!
Boss Micro BR 1st gen unit was some sort of revolutionary piece of gear because Boss engineers developed it from empty sheet while Boss BR-80 was done using previous formula and just added some further imagination for development with slight improvements. I'm saying that because developing and making up the 1st portable pocket 4-tracker was definitely not an easy task back then Just look at design itself - very imaginative engineering approach.
Agreed, unfortunately the BR-80 lost the insert affects after a dry recording which is unfortunate.
Hello. Is it possible to “upload” files from the “boss micro br 80” player to Android using certain wires? and then to the Internet. ?
Thanks for making such a comprehensive-yet-understandable comparison. Just a few questions, given I'm interested in using this a bit unconventionally (portable sound-design more than song-demo-ing). Thanks in advance.
1) is the AB Looping seamless on both ?
2) you show on the MicroBR switching V-TRacks while playing as a "hack mute". Are all (non-empty) V-tracks time-aligned ? ...so if I live-switch from "3" to "4" they hand-off like Relay Race rather than anything restarting. Can you switch V-tracks live WHILE Bouncing ?
3) when talking about BR80's eBand mode at 20:00, you say "you can record your OUTPUT"... can you make bounce/masters w/in eBand that include the sound of stretched/shifted source tracks ? ... or do you mean that you can only record the INPUT as you jam along to stretched/shifted. I know this may be an unconventional use, but I'm wondering if I can the BR-80 to "resample" audio w/ the sound of eBand's Pitch Shifting and/or Time-Stretching.
4) can you use the "Vocal" effects on a guitar/line input ?
5) can you bounce the Rhythm part as Audio, then load back as an audio track ? and push Drum Audio back through Insert FX on the OG Micro ?
Great tutorial, I have both recorders as well and agree with everything you stated. One big thing I do also like about the MicroBR is that I can fade out songs while mixing down. I can also increase the volume of a solo part while mixing.
+clamgrower1 Yeah, those ate both great features. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Thanks for taking the time to do this! The effort you put into this demo/comparison is very much recognized and appreciated.
Glad to help. Thanks for watching!
I found the first gen one at a pawn shop just today, I picked it up for 50 bucks and I can't wait to start recording
Awesome !! How's it been working for you!
Hi @Tralornik, I own a Micro BR 1st gen and it has a limitation of 1GB SD cards. You mentioned one can put a 32GB in either devices, did you managed to put a 32GB SD card to work on your 1st gen Micro BR? Which brand? Thanks!
+William Madruga Sorry, I made a mistake about the SD card size for the 1st gen Micro BR. The maximum SD card size for the 1st generation is a 2GB SD card (which is still a nice boost over your current 1GB card).
Just make sure that you are running the latest firmware on the Micro BR to maximize the SD brand compatibility...but in any case most 2GB SD cards should work with the latest firmware (since the latest firmware specifically had fixes for better SD compatibility).
I personally have had success using Toshiba, Sandisk, and PQI brands... but I think any decent card would work fine (remember, the Micro BR is older, so you probably don't want to get the fastest card on the market today, since the hardware would not be able to take advantage of it anyway). ALWAYS make sure to initialize a new SD card using the Micro BR... it will lessen any potential issues as the card gets full (or so I have read).
Checkout Boss's Micro BR support pages for card recommendations (and for the latest firmware).
I will make sure to add an annotation to the video regarding the max 2GB SD card size for the 1st generation Micro BR... thanks for bringing the discrepancy to my attention.
Nice! I didn't know there was a new firmware improving SD compatibility. Gonna update and format my SD card which is a 2Gb PNY that I was only using 1Gb :) Thanks!
+William Madruga I just noticed that the 1.04 firmware for the Micro BR is very hard to find, so here is a link to a forum that has it (and some warnings about the firmware update that are worth reading as well):
songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=3553.0;msg=272867
the micro br is very much a hidden gem
I've had mine for about 12 years, it's in immaculate condition and I still use it despite having some more modern gear. It is indeed pretty awesom.
@@TheCompleteGuitarist Agreed,so intuitive,easy to use and pretty versatile too.
It is indeed. I have a clean boost a ts9 going into a tube driver then into the br and it sounds great. It takes a lot of the digital sound away and makes the sound a lot fuller than just plugging your guitar in direct.
I have had the first one since 2009, I still use it regularly. I love it.
@@laganas2008 It is really great. I sometimes put my guitar into it on a clean setting then take the stereo out into a zoom ms70cdr for the modulation and it sounds amazing.
I didn't watch every second but one big reason why I bought the second one was because can be used as interface. I pluged my guitar in the br 80 and br 80 in the computer. Used the distortion, noise suppressor and EQ on the unit and recorded directly in the computer.
I bought both when they came out. The first one I used a lot sinse this was the only way I could record guitar at the time. The second one I only used once as interface for my computer using the distortion,EQ and the noise suppressor on the unit. It works. Now I am dusting it of again.
Excellent video. I have several micro br and find that with constant use the stop start buttons fail are they repairable, have you experienced this failure. But agree they are a useful bit of kit
I had the micro-br and my experience with its HORRENDOUSLY unusable user interface has stopped me from purchasing any of the "upgrades" to it that have come out over the years. I found this to be so unusable that I literally gave it away after having used it no more than a dozen times. ABSOLUTELY HORRENDOUS!
can you use both as an audio interface to work directly on your DOW?
Sorry, I am not sure. I always use it standalone as an idea machine. Occasionally transferring audio track.
I think you can do ii only with boss micro br 80
I lucked out today, $100 for the 2nd generation with a few accessories. Very generous seller was so nice and believe this unit will help a ton of opportunities to rehearse at a park and also just found out how to run my battery pack with it and not have to buy batteries. Just gotta glue the rubber knob to the wheel.
The main difference describe on 28 minutes of the video - you cannot record dry sound on Boss Micro BR-80. I was really sad about it when I understood it but already sold old device
Yeah it is a bummer, though I imagine you could get around it by playing sound file on PC etc and pumping it back into the BR-80 while recording… but yeah insertion loss is a total bummer. Not sure why they did that.
Picked up a Boss Micro BR. Upgraded the firmware (Thanks for that video). You nailed it in this video. The older one, Micro BR, can be faster to get around.
Thanks for posting this, your voice and the information relayed was clear and precises, everything straight to the point in a well informed way. This easily leads the viewer to make an informed decision. Not always easy when comparing two almost identical items. I also found it was worth my time to watch it all the way through. I was confused as to which one was best for me, features vs price. Your posting made it very clear, and my decision was made. Thank you PS - for the record I went with the older model as I feel it is more user friendly and I'm not a very tech savvy fellow..
Great, glad it helped. I like both for different reasons, since some features like recording raw and inserting effects post record is only available on the older unit which makes it a keeper. But, of course, the newer BR-80 just has so many extra goodies that it is a keeper as well. Thanks goodness they are small, not that that ever stops me from buying a piece of gear, lol!
Great piece of job, thank You,Sir for your time! Got the first one already and now, after watching gonna buy Micro 80
Awesome!, hope you enjoy them as much as I do! Thanks for watching an commenting!
Nice vid.
Probably already mentioned but..
Just to mention Original micro BR is 1gb capacity and BR80 is sdhc 32gb
Also use a plectrum to remove battery not scissors 🤠
I have the original BR but always end up back in Zoom MRS 1608 or 1266 🤩
Thanks 👍
Good tip about the Plectrum (no pun intended, lol).
Actually the original can use cards as big as 2GB with the latest firmware (Link to firmware is in description area of video).
Thanks for watching and commenting, it's very much appreciated!
EXCELLENT JOB! thanks for making thisvideo
Recording only wet signals is huge. Has anyone found a solution in the BR-80?
So far I have not. It is truly a bummer. One thought though is that if you had both you could record to the Original MicroBR dry and then connect to the BR-80 and record the BR-80 wet in different ways to try stuff out.. But that is really a total hack and requires you to have both devices.
The ability to reccord dry and apply effects afterwards is my favorites Original MicroBR feature. Too bad it only has half the effects of the BR-80.
Thanks for watching!
You have one strong attention to detail, my friend. EXCELLENT Presentation!
Thanks so much!
AWESOME Video! I was going to upgrade to the 80, but you just made me realize I have what I need. Love my BR. I do have the rubber case for it. Dropped it MANY MANY times , once I dropped it and kicked it at the same time...down 12 stairs 😳🙄😁 thought it was done,lol. It survived 100%
It’s a beast with at least 9 lives !
In the hardware section you didn't talk about the difference in onboard mic quality. Which one in your opinion is better and why?
Definitely a subjective subject. The MicroBR definitely has more handling noise and clickier buttons. The BR-80 has two mics so it has more of a stereo effect (though limited since they are only about 4 inches apart). I would say the BR-80 is superior in mic quality, but again, it is very subjective. Biggest issue with BR-80 is you cannot record dry and add effects later. With Original BR you can (though there are only half as many effects). Also, for vocals, the BR-80 has great vocal effects including multi-part harmonies...but again, you cannot apply the after the recording... you have to record with effects on (wet) and cross your fingers (though you can easily preview all effects prior to recording).
Hope this helps, Thanks for watching!
another plus of the older one is, you can adjust the sensitivity of line input, the 80 cant! also while ffw/fbw you here the sound! very good foe editing!! i have both + like the older way better! much faster because of the better buttons. the 80 isnt as accurate, because of the cheap wheel + the non prominent buttons.
+edorc1 All good points! I was not aware that the input sensitivity does not affect the line-input... probably because I mostly use the internal mics (off which input sensitivity does work with). I guess the logic is that the line-input would be assumed to be at line-level? Still, I have to agree that it is strange that they don't allow you to boost that input like they do with the original BR. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Great comparison video! I hope boss comes out with a third generation and takes some keys from this video.
It also bothers me on the br-80, you can't record dry, and add your effects later... This is the biggest bummer for me, but I still love the unit.
I hear you, bummed me out too as the effects (like voice) are very cool !
My friend has one of the older units he doesn't know how to use it tho
Great Video! Looks like we need both of them.
Very cool machine(s) - great review.
Hi, I'm looking in to the BR-80 for demos, but I'd also like to export fairly easily to my computer for quick mixing. I had the original BR back in 2007 and remember it being pretty cumbersome to get each WAV track I recorded on to the computer. Do you know with the BR-80 does it allow me to treat the unit as a USB hard drive and get all the files quickly without using something like the WAV converter thing Roland recommended with the original BR? I know this is a common feature with some of the other micro recorders, but I'm not so sure with the BR range.
Apologies if it's mentioned in the video, I quickly flicked through it.
+kjbgr Unfortunately, the BR-80 still requires you to convert the files from Boss's internal format. The utility on the PC is actually pretty fast, and you can also convert on the devices as well (though that is a slower process).
A very interesting feature is that you can take the SD card out of the 1st gen Micro BR and put it into a SD-to-CF adapter and load it into the BR900's CF slot (and then open the song in th BR900).
However, that feature is not all that useful since it is only a two way street insofar as the two devices can only read each other's first 4 tracks (and not even the rhythm track either)... still it is kinda cool to be able to pop the SD card out of the 1st gen Micro BR and put it into the BR900 and then burn those tracks directly to CD as well as to use the BR900 MP3/WAV export capabilities to export to either USB or to write to a CD disc.
Unfortunately, (if I recall correctly) the Micro BR-80 cannot do any of this BR900 swapping .
Thanks for watching and commenting!
This is an excellent video. I know it is several years old, but I just recently found out about the Boss BR-80 and I bought one used. I was thinking about getting one of the original Micro BR units for my son, but I have a question: Can you take a song (or tracks) created in the original BR and open it and edit it in the BR-80?
Thank you so much for your comment. It’s been a while but I’m pretty sure that basically, both of them can import an export music files, so you just need to move the files into the correct directory and import them.
If you look on the SD cards with (filemanager in windows or Filer in MacOSX), it should be pretty obvious where the files will need to be located… Also, I believe you can just browse around the SD card with the unit itself to find the correct file.
Just got the new version after my old one started to get a bit faulty. I definitely think the design of the old model is much better, looking. Plus I knew how to record basically on it. New one looks a bit more complex, I’m not too technical. Appreciate this video to help me find my way through 🤘🏼
Old one is a serious workhorse. Newer one has more features (but loses an important one of insert effects) but is much less robustly built.
Thanks for watching!
Give a tip how make it works.in PC...I have BR 80 but it does not recognize micro br no way .pls I changed the cable.
I have a stereo synth. That gives me only 4 tracks on the br 80. Can I record stereo on the br? Two tracks only then?
+Jan Martin Ulvåg You can record a stereo input to either two tracks or to one track, it is up to you. Of course, if you record to one track you lose the stereo effects during the automatic mixdown, so it is a trade off.
Remember though that each of the 4 tracks has eight V-Tracks, so you could record to 2 tracks in stereo and then just have to do an extra level of bouncing/mixdown when making the final product (which would keep the stereo effects in the final mixdown).
For example, you could record to Tracks 1 and 2 (V-Track One on each). Then record on tracks 3 and 4. Then change VTracks on tracks one and two to use V-TRack two. Then record on tracks one and two again (of course you won't hear the stereo track during this last recording session but they will still be in the final mix).
Here are all the steps in detail for a mix (and master) of a stereo track PLUS 4 other tracks PLUS a rhythm track (if desired):
Let's say you recorded your stereo pair to track 1 and 2, and then added a rhythm track and then recorded onto tracks 3 and 4 with additional instruments or vocals. Next you changed tracks 1 and 2 to use V-Track 2 on each and then recorded new material onto both of those tracks again. (NOTE: This last part is on V-Track 2 so the original stereo record is not overwritten as it lives on V-Track 1).
So, at this point you would have:
(1) Rhythm Track.
(2) Track One (V1 and V2) (which is now a Stereo L/R pair)
(2) Track Two (V1 and V2)
(1) Track Three (V1)
+ (1) Track Four (V1)
----------------------------------------------------------
(7) Seven Tracks total to mix and master.
That makes 7 tracks (when you include Rhythm)
So for bouncing you will need to do a little more work:
1) Set all tracks back to V-Track 1
2) Bounce all tracks (including Rhythm if desired) to Track 3+4 (VTrack 6)
3) Turn off Rhythm track
4) Change tracks 1 and 2 to use V-Track 2
5) Change tracks 3 and 4 to use V-Track 6 --> i.e.: The track we just bounced to in step (2)
6) Bounce tracks 1, 2, 3, 4 to Track 3+4 (VTrack 7)
7) Change tracks 3 and 4 to use V-Track 7 --> i.e.: The track we just bounced to in step (6)
8) Mute Tracks 2 and 3 (although I cannot remember right now if you really need to mute there during the mastering step)
9) Master just Track 3+4 to Track 3+4 V-Track 8
10) Done. Your final mastered product is on Track 3+4 (V-Track 8) as a stereo L+R pair.
Whew, it looks complicated but it really is not that bad once you understand how V-Tracks work. But once you do you can see that you can actually use even more V-Tracks for even more complex mixes.
Keep in mind that when I say Mute, I really mean to turn down the volume to zero or set the track to an empty V-Track since the original BR has no Mute button per se.
Anyway, I hope this helps and keep in mind that I am doing this from memory so it might need a tweak here or there, but overall I think I got it all right.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
+Tralornik Have to read this many times and think
+Jan Martin Ulvåg I totally understand, but like I said, it is a lot easier than it sounds once you understand how V-Tracks work.
The nice thing is that once you wrap your hear around V-Tracks then the you are able to apply that logic to almost all of the BOSS BR line (BR900, BR1100, BR1600, etc) as they all have the V-Track feature as well. (The BR-1600 has 16 V-Tracks per track! Now that is alot of tracks!)
BTW, The primary use of V-Tracks is to keep multiple "takes" of a performance for each track. Of course, they do all take up storage space but once you are happy with your mixdown you can just back them up to a computer and/pr remove them off the SD card.
Thanks, Very useful and comprehensive comparison
Thanks!
Well done, pal! Nice vid, perfect explained, given examples etc. You should get waay more likes for this. The thing is, the topic is not that common for most people. Thanks for your effort :)
@dewinchy Thanks for the kind words! I am glad you found the video interesting and helpful. Thanks so much for watching and commenting!
I have the Micro BR.. but I wish I knew what you knew..man do I ever I want to put a solo track on a song I played but when I try to play and listen to the song on a different track I can't hear it to add the solo or am I being stupid..do you have videos of you actually recording this way ty.. I have joined your page ty great tutorial
You basically want to arm a track for record, playback, or mute it. If you select solo then all other tracks are muted (except other tracks thst are also selected for solo). Just remember that the BR only records to the armed track, even if you can hear the others. The manual is online and is actually pretty goid, plus Boss/Roland has a quick start guide for thus unit (I think).
Very well informative.... thank you for taking the time to do a quality comparison video.
Glad to help. Thanks for watching!
Thanks very much for taking the time to make such a comprehensive video.
No problem, glad yu found it useful. Thanks so much for watching and commenting!
Are you sure de BR 80 is in metal ? Because mine is plastic. An I don't have the same big button. Is it an old model ?
I think you might have the original Micro BR (non-80 version)
Have you ever used the external mic feature? I flipped the switch to "MIC" on the bottom and plugged in a dynamic mic (SM53) but the noise floor (hiss) was loud no matter how much I adjusted input level up or down. Any tips?
I think I’m going to dig up my Micro BR again, thanks for this very extensive comparison.
Perfect video in every way. Was looking for a simple ideas catcher, the BR is the only one in any price range that meets my requirements.
Excellent Editorial.Thank you Sir.
ZEKE ??? Do you use this out there on your Gold-Minin' Sailboat ?
great video i normally wont watch these because its some guy saying "heres the box...er...the unit is square...heres the plug...duh" but this was spot on , you should go professional , the feature of effects change on dry recording got me, im a deliberatly technophobe id just buy the newer one , but changing effects on dry recording is really all i wanted, after all whats an 8 track for ? great
Here's my question... Can you use the Micro Br80 with a different DAW. I mean can you actually record with a Micro BR 80 as an audio interface by using other DAW and not Sonar LE? It has been 4 years ever since and I am still having these problems with Micro BR 80 as an audio interface for not being so very compatible with other DAW softwares. They shouldn't label it as an audio interface if it's not even usable in the first place. Told this for a billion times with roland but still they will insist me to another department. And thank you if you respond to my comment
i wont one butt heard a scary story!!!!!!! can y tell me if they told wrong they got a new card they went to do the format butt said they miss up the full unit is this true it can happen
whats the power supply call f0r the 2006 micro br not the br 80?
DC 9v Center negative (and at least 200ma, more is fine though)
@@Tralornik I got the one I got a hold of boss . but ty
thanks so much for this! VERY VERY HELPFUL!! :)
I'm not sure now wether you mention it in this video or not, but BR-80 is supposed to allow you to import and play MIDI files into drum track (without loosing one "real" track for external drums wav, if you feel ok with internal drumsets sounds) . A great feature I have been missing in my 1st Generation from the very first days of use.
Thanks for your amazing review. Very helpful.
I have no such problem removing battery.
does the br have the bass swap effect??
Searching for the same m8.
Sorry, I am not sure off the top of my head. You probably could find a complete list in the manual (which I imagine is online as most BOSS units have a downloadable manual).
UPDATE: Just checked the effects lists:
1. On the Micro BR (which has 80 effects) the only effects starting with "BASS" are Bass Clean, Bass Crunch, and Bass Solo.
2. The BR-80 has 160 effects and Bass effects are Tight Bass, Loose Bass, Drive Bass, Fretless Bass, Octave Bass, Slap Limit, Clean Comp, Bass Drive, Extreme Drive, and Finger Octave.
However, each effect has several parameters, so you still may find the ability to get the sound you want. They have quite deep effects settings, as well as Amp modelling in the BR-80, so it might be worth trying to get your hands on one to run through all the options if a store has one near you or if a friend can loan you a unit.
Hope this helps. Thanks for watching and commenting.
im buying that mother on the left got it in mind where i live
I'd like to have (if possible) a comparison of these gears to Tascam DP 006 (no effects, good microphone), Tascam DP 008 (two condenser mics) and Tascam DP 008 EX (effects). Boss or Tascam? Both?
That would be interesting… I just got a DP008ex recently, but alas I don;t have the others Tascams (still have BRs though). One thing I have heard is that there is a bit of a process to get audio files out of the Tascam as they have to be converted on the device first (if memory serves me correctly). I believe it is mentioned in the Amazon reviews but perhaps TASCAM fixed that with firmware.
Yo you sound like Johnny Rapp, are you!?
I'd like to have if possible, a comparison from these gears to TASCAM models: DP 006, DP 008 and DP008 EX.
That would be interesting… I just got a DP008ex recently, but alas I don;t have the others Tascams (still have BRs though). One thing I have heard is that there is a bit of a process to get audio files out of the Tascam as they have to be converted on the device first (if memory serves me correctly). I believe it is mentioned in the Amazon reviews but perhaps TASCAM fixed that with firmware.
if only - Boss had allowed foot control of the BR-80 unit's transport functions. It would have been perfect. Boss does a range of foot switches, all they would have needed is a 3.5mm adaptor to allow connection of those foot switches. Otherwise its looks a great all round unit.
Thanks for watching!
Can u power via USB??
Good video thnx 😌
No problem 😊
Hi just wanted to say thank you for going over everything I have the first gen br I found it hard to use the track correctly so it’s been sitting for a long time but after watching your presentation I think its time to kill a lot of batteries can you please do a video on track editing and mastering?? I know there’s a lot of people using this but are not posting videos as this is old technology. If someone reads this please post some videos as they are needed. Thank you. JoP
I will definitely seriously consider it… perhaps a video for each or a comparison… though they are quite different in that regard.
Thanks for watching.
Would these be useful for importing my own backing tracks and playing/singing over live?
Definitely, that's one of the main purpose of both units, perfect for multiple tracks and layering vocals. You add music files and import them into tracks or just play them on another device and record them with built-in mics or line-in. The MicroBR gives you 4 tracks and the Micro BR-80 gives you 8 tracks to work with... the video outlines most of the other differences.
Hi Tralornik, for jamming to the rythmsection using a bass guitar, is there one device having a clear advantage over the other regarding quality or quantity of the rythms? Thanks!
+Rainer Prinz They are both good for playing a creating basic rhythm sections and playing along. However, for variety (fills, etc) you would need to a bit of editing on both. The 1st gen comes with a few simple/short pre-made arrangements, where as the send gen doesn't have any arrangement build-in (but it does have e-Band mode, more on that in a sec).
On both units you would want to spend a bit of time learning how to piece together the part to make a nice varied rhythm section. Both of them give you plenty of the various verse, chorus, and fills parts to piece together. The interfaces are bit different and I would think most people would find the BR-80 a little more intuitive, but niether are really that hard to wrap you mind around.
The BR-80 also comes with eBand mode which has several backing loops (sort of a band in a box) that you can jam along with... Most are fairly short, but you can set it up to play them in sequence (or just keep one looping). There are a number of them on the unit already and there are several "packs" of them you can download for free off of Boss's site. Of course, you accomplish the same e-Band type backing with the 1st gen by downloading the loops and simply loading them into the first track of a song. However, I *think* one of the features of the eBand mode is that the backing track will loop, but the recording remains linear. Meaning the backing might loop 10 times but your overlay on top of the backing remain as one long section... not 100% sure but I think that is the way it works. Also (again, if I remember correctly) the backing and the playing are recorded as one stereo track (since eBand is different than MTR mode).
Anyway, I hope that helps and thanks for watching/commenting.
thx for your wonderful review!
one question about extern microphones:
are mics with 5 volt plugin-power usable within the br-80?
greetings from germany
uwe
I fairly certain that plugin power is supported on the BR-80, but phantom power is not supported (due to fact that the impact on the battery life would be extreme).
Can you open a 4 Track or 8 Track and attach a Cd Player to them.Tascams has a record button so i thought it might be able to record on a cd.Can you add two usb ports to them Tascams ????
Sorry I am not sure, both units only have a single MiniUSB connector (not a MicroUSB, a MiniUSB just to be clear). You can download the manual online for free and it should give a detailed set of examples for connectivity options.
Thanks for watching!
I have been using the BR 80 for about a year. It's like having a band in a box the size of a large business card. It's fits easily in my guitar case.
I hear you !
Great video. Can you tell me how the final mastered tracks compare between the two machines? Very similar. Also, do you know how the final mastered tracks compare to the old BR-8? That has a good reputation for producing a nice compressed sound, almost like tape.
I got the BR-80 and like you I'm a bit disappointed that the effects can't be applied to the track itself or to the stereo input. Do I understand you correctly that the effects on the Micro BR can be applied to a track after the fact?
Thanks for any info you can offer.
That would be alot harder to say since it would inherently be subjective. However, my feeling (from using both) is that they are both very similar in mastering quality. However, the mastering on the 1st gen Micro BR seems to be alot more flexible (but that is really only a plus if you find the mastering parameters of the BR-80 too limiting). Alot would depend on the recording conditions, instruments, and style of music.
do you know how to get the firmware versión on my micro br? The llnk is already unavailable. Thanks in advance.
The Link has been fixed. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Hi great video thanks. I have purchased the older of the two. I’ve loaded my backing tracks (MP3’s) on to it no problem. However when I play them in mp3 mode can I stop / turn off the automatic next track play or do I need to do it manually. Thanks
I am not 100% sure, but I don't think so based on a quick look at the menu. However, it might be worth checking the manual online to see if that is an option via a button combo. BOSS has most manuals online for free download.
Great video. I appreciate your time and effort. I am getting s lot out of this. Thank you.
You are most welcome. Thanks for watching!
VERY good/useful/insightful thank you!
Thanks for watching and commenting!
Yeah,the'C Roaky' feature is perfect for my voice lol!
LOL ! Thanks for watching!
Sir what is the Baterry your using for Micro BR??
The best rechargeables around are definitely eneloops, however there are alot of fakes so you need to make syre to get the real thing since you are paying a premium. You can also uses other NIMH batteries, but just make sure they have a good reputation and are LSD (LowSelf Discharge), which means they hold there charge when on a shelf for upto 3 years (or more). The Micro BRs have an option to specify battery type, so make sure to change that as well so battery indicator is accurate. Alkalines last quite a while but NIMH batteries and a good charger are a great investment for your gear, just always buy extras and charge them all then store the extra fully charged ones in a box by the charger...then swap when the need arises (and charge then store the depleted ones). Some devices can’t use NIMH due to the lower voltage, but that is fairly rare....and the BRs are not one of them.
Excellent video! In depth and very useful too!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Hi! What time for load a mult track Sessions? O have buy the BR-80 for play in live stage with multTrack backingtrack.
Time would all depend on number and size of tracks. Thanks for watching!
Great work. I own both units. Seeing the differences clearly has saved me time.Thanks. This is the best comparison vid on this needed subject.....
Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Great stuff, very informative, many thanks.
Thanks !
If I want to add tracks to use this as a backing track player live how well would it work if I just added drums and bass panned one side click track the other side etc split click to in ears?
I think it would work fine for that, though I have not done that setup myself. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for taking the time to make this exceptionally helpful video!!
You're totally welcome. Thanks for watching!
is it possible on the 80 to turn the mics off for recording songs onto it
I am quite sure it is....You can defintely turn down the input sensitivity on the internal mics through the utilities (down to -24db), but I am drawing a total blank right now about shutting the onboard mics completely off. I would check the manual which downloadable online for free.
Thanks for watching.
Very good comparision video. Thanks. I just bought the newer BR80 yesterday. Your video helped me figure a lot of things that can be done. Thank you.
Compression params:
For the 2nd Gen BR-80, they are focusing more on the younger crowd. Teens, Students, Learners, etc. IGarageBand-ers. Perhaps, even those who just got their 1st Electric guitar. The compressor params in 1st version are more-or-less Universal,. They dumbed down parameters to just 3, with param-names intuitive to beginners who never used a compressor (or FX Pedals / DAWS before )
My guess is.,, They changed their prime-target demographic, based on Sales / Popularity of the 1st model ? (OR) To capture that demographic which have'nt been tapped for 'More Profit' :)
+Krishna Chaitanya Oh I felt really bad to know they removed the option to record clean/Dry track while monitoring sound out of FX-Chain. It is extremely useful for me. Both for finding right tones, or process further in a DAW with advanced VSTs, Amplitube, Guitar-Rig, etc.
I am not able to think of a valid reason why that feature was removed. Is it new DSP chip limitation ? Cant be. It is simply a Split of signal coming out of Pre-AMP, trivial.
I hope they will add that feature back via a Firmware patch ( Mine runs the latest 1.06.) I will check their site for release notes.
+Krishna Chaitanya Definitely let us know if you here of any firmware patches that would re-enable that feature. It would be incredibly useful for trying out harmonies as well. I agree, it's really bizarre that they removed it. Thanks for commenting.
Tralornik, you may be able to answer this for me. Do either of these units support recording from the built-in microphones in multitrack mode? It makes sense to me to be in multitrack mode and having instruments on various tracks, then wanting to record a vocal track with the built-in condenser mics but I don't believe they support that, or do they? That's a big oversight if they can't because now my little portable studio will require I get two external condenser microphones(manual says not to record with one), with a battery/phantom power adapters for each, and a 1/8" to XLR stereo adapter and plug all that into the unit. It doesn't make sense to me when there's two microphones built into the unit.
+Super Steve In MTR mode you can use the internal mics to record vocals (I do this all the time actually). The only limitation I am aware of (ie: have read about) is that when you record SIMULTANEOUSLY from both the guitar-in (1/4 port) AND the internal mics you will get a "mix" of both inputs onto a the currently armed track(s). In other words you cannot assign guitar-in to track one and mic-in to track 2 (when recording both simultaneously)...
I actually always record instruments on individual tracks first then vocals on a separate track... which of course end up on separate tracks since they are not done simultaneously. I almost never hook up a microphone to my Micro BR since the internals work very well (for my needs at least). There may be a limitation in eBand and LiveRecording modes, but in MTR mode the internal mics definitely record to whatever track you arm, with instruments on other tracks playing back, just any other multitrack recorders. (BTW, to the best of my knowledge, all of the above applies to both the Micro BR and the Micro BR-80).
+Tralornik --- Awesome. Thanks for the info. This is the best review I've seen from these tiny multitrack recorders.
Great
On the br 80 I recorded over and over many times the same thing a lot of times because I could not manage to play it right, and suddenly the memory was full. Very strange. How can it get full when I just record over and over? Doesn't what I record over get deleted?
+Jan Martin Ulvåg This is most often an issue with the card or the older device firmware. See the description to get the latest firmware (better SD compatibility) and also always make sure to format the card via the device, not with a PC or card reader. The firmware and device format should resolve the issue, but if not, I would think it might be time for a new/better SD card. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Tralornik Thanks
Please, i have de micro br 1 generation and i couldnt found the firmware 1,04. Does anyone have the link?
Sorry about that, the original link I posted became an outdated link due to the linked sites reorganization. I posted a new direct link to the 1.04 firmware file in the video description area and that link that should be much more reliable in the long-term. See video description area for more info (and appropriate warnings, etc). Thanks for bringing the issue to my attention!
@@Tralornik Thanks a lot.
Thank you, appreciated
Sure, No problem, thanks for watching!
great video
Good edition.
would be nice to hear some actual recordings..........
Good point... However, the fidelity of the two is very similar to my ears and unfortunately I don't think it would translate too well on youtube (after encoding)...or at least not well enough to tell the difference just hearing them. What I mean to say is that I think someone would really need to use some audio analyzing equipment to really show the differences (visually). But still, it is an excellent point.
Hi,thanks for the reply...well you have a good point too...it was just a spontaneous reaction did not think it through,did not mean to criticise...good review.
Thanks!
Thanks for this.
I had the MicroBR, but gave it away when I bought the BR-80.
I think that this is an excellent, and very thorough review for those who may be considering buying either of these units.
You make a good point about the BR-80 not being able to record 'dry', and also not being able to effect a part of a track.
Thanks again
+drutgat2 Yeah,, I have them both because there are things that I love about each of them. Hopefully if/when the net generation comes out they will combine the best of both (and use better scroll wheel hardware as well! LOL!)
Thanks for watching and commenting!
Also the one on the right is an 8 track so double the tracks
Right on!
With the Boss BR-80...... has anyone found a way of recording dry guitar and adding effects afterwards yet?
Seems like a major feature to lose. I'm hoping there is some way around this.
Cheers
+wheaty64 he told it in the vid.. no!
Even if money is an issue, I'd still wait and buy the newer version. Or larger version.
the new one is a no-go for me if you have to record with wet effects. the original is better because you can record dry and apply effects after
Wish I'd see this years ago. I recorded guitar and it was pretty new to me. Was a live show. I didn't realize but it recorded with an effect. Sounded horrible after. I assumed I could do nothing with it, and we regarded the video and all recordings from that show useless and deleted it all. Was a good show too. Never mind.
Great Great video! Thanks for taking your time and posting; it´s clear you know those units very well! If you´re a guitar player, I would like to ask how would you rate the amp emulations and presets for guitar? I´m between choosing a micro br and a RP355. I know they´re completely different, but I can get either for about the same price (used, of course), and the main advantage I see with the micro br is that I wouldn´t need my computer to record my song; with the RP355 I need my computer to do so, but the RP355 is more versatil for playing and managing effects and presets. I´ve seen mjicro br youtube videos and think they sound good enough, but have to decide between versatility vs recording. Would like to know your opinion, Thanks!!
+Sabas Gonzalez Hard to say since (as you said) it is a trade off. I never used a RP355, but I have used an RP80 and to my ears the Micro BRs are easily as good effect-wise. However, I am sure the RP355 is a big step up from the RP80 so not sure how much that helps. I think it really comes down to if having a portable 4-track solution is more important than if having an effects pedal (and an expression pedal I would imagine)... very different things of course. Also, is four tracks going to be enough to keep you from needing your computer setup for most of your uses? Personally, I find I use the Micro BR for quick stuff, the BR-80 for quick vocals and a larger BOSS BR for final mixes and creating CDs (for sharing and listening on the go). Of course, I also use a computer and Reaper for when I really need alot of control over a mix... but overall I prefer a hardware mixer over a computer (but that's just my personal preference).
I guess the best advice is the old adage: "Buy the piece of equipment you are more likely to use and/or is more likely to get you to play/practice" (Okay, I think I expanded it a bit!)
Anyway, I hope that helped a bit.... Thanks for watching and commenting!
+Tralornik Thanks, bud! Yeah, I´ve been thinking about it and definitely I prefer versatility (RP) over easier recording (BR). In time I´ll try to add the equipment I need to my existing gear. Cheers..
The BR will only actually take a 1 Gb SD card or less.
+Graeme Robertson Initially that was true, but Boss released a firmware update that allows the 1st gen to handle up to a 2GB card (and of course the BR-80 can handle even larger cards).
I just noticed that the 1.04 firmware for the Micro BR is very hard to find, so here is a link to a forum that has it (and some warnings about the firmware update that are worth reading as well):
songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=3553.0;msg=272867
I never knew about that firmware update.
Maximum size SD card in the original is only 1GB. I tried a 2GB and it didn't work
You have copy all containt of 1Gb to 2Gb...once it works you remove.the unwshided songs
@@Ingles4allYou I like original BR and just like you said: copy over and get back the whole card. Should do that anyhow but the card limitation isn't a big deal.
@@RaymondUpenieks any tip to make my pc recognize micro br 80.?. I have Windows 10. Thanks
@@Ingles4allYou BR 80 and this applies to many BOSS and Roland products and Windows 10.. if you connect to internet it should get download a generic driver but if not the below should work. Make sure that you checkmark that you agree with terms.
www.boss.info/us/support/by_product/micro_br_br-80/updates_drivers/a0bb7373-d621-4c41-a8c6-22cc35690346/
@@Ingles4allYou Set your unit to audio .. also this might be handy. I have original Micro BR but BOSS/Roland is excellent in support.
rolandus.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/208653956-BR-80-MICRO-BR-SYMPTOM-Driver-Will-Not-Install-Windows-10-?mobile_site=true
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