A Vintage Amp Snob Goes Direct - Ask Zac 104

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  • Опубліковано 13 гру 2021
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    You don't change until you have to.....
    I have always been an amp guy, and have always had a preference for tube amps. With a recent fly date I did with Paul Bogart, I ran into a situation that caused me to finally make the jump to using a direct setup. In the video, I cover how I began to see more and more of my friends and heroes go direct when the situation called for it. My solution was the Strymon Iridium with a Tone Junkie Celestion Vintage 30 IR pack. With it, I could get a nice BF Deluxe Reverb sound, along with the V30 IR to give me a sound I was comfortable with. Though others I spoke with used the Kemper or Line 6 HX, I chose the Strymon as it had actual knobs, and was much easier for me to use on the gig.
    This is my beginner's guide to going direct.
    Gear for this video
    1957 Fender Esquire with an added neck pickup. Restoration and aging on the body by Dan "Danocaster" Strain. Bridge pickup re-wind by Ron Ellis
    Strings:
    D'Addario NYXL 10-46
    Pick:
    D'Andrea MH 351
    Pedalboard
    Turbo Tuner
    Mirage Compressor
    Karma MTN-10 Mostortion
    Boss DM-3
    Strymon Flint
    Line 6 Echo Park
    Strymon Iridium
    9v power via Truetone CS6
    JBL powered speakers for this video #askzac #guitartech #telecaster

КОМЕНТАРІ • 225

  • @otisgibbs
    @otisgibbs 2 роки тому +32

    That sounds a hell of a lot better than the Rockman I got for Christmas back in 1985! : )

    • @ChristopherDowning
      @ChristopherDowning 10 місяців тому

      Haha! You just woke up Rumpelstiltskin matey? The Rockman for it's time was World beating. Unfortunately, the Chinese discovered that they could open up everything and just copy whatever they found - so all sorts of wonderful innovation was sold to everyone at super knockdown prices - like when you don't have to do any creation or R&D - life gets easy and profitable.

  • @bermibrit
    @bermibrit 2 роки тому +35

    as a blind guitarist, the trend towards going direct is a real concern for me. I cannot use the Kemper, Ax, or Line6 Healix because none of those companies have taken the trouble to make the phone apps or PC editors accessible, although it is entirely possible to do so. I was blown away when I purchased the Iridium. Whilst I cannot upload new IRs or make any changes on the PC (again, Strymon have not made this accessible) I can get good sounds using what was included out of the box. But in the medium to long term, I think this trend will prevent guitar players who are blind or who have very little vision from gigging as successfully as we have in the past.

    • @davetbassbos
      @davetbassbos 2 роки тому

      If those allow MIDI control, something could be cobbled together!

    • @bermibrit
      @bermibrit 2 роки тому +1

      @@davetbassbos indeed, the most do not in favour of non-interoperable solutions like editors.

    • @Markleford
      @Markleford Рік тому

      Young software coders who don't care about accessibility lack the wisdom to grasp that "low vision" catches up with most of us eventually.

    • @RustBelter
      @RustBelter 9 місяців тому

      I feel ya brother

  • @DDPAV
    @DDPAV 2 роки тому +20

    In the 80's i went to the gig with two full marshall stacks and several guitars in a van. In the 90's and early 2000's it was a 4x10 combo and two guitars in an suv. Since 2019 it's a Headrush and one guitar in the trunk of my two seat convertible. Thankfully technology has kept up with my aging process and the audience can still hear all my bad notes with perfect amp-like tone😜
    One thing often left out of the equation in the smaller venues, clubs or churches is the fact the sound person is often the weakest link(I'm a live soundman myself so I know). That Dumbel you brought to the gig with your perfect tone somehow gets lost thru a beat up 20 year old 57 hanging from the amp handle somewhere close to a speaker, going into generic guitar preset in the house X32.......

    • @jburdsinfuse
      @jburdsinfuse 2 роки тому

      ^^^^ This ^^^^
      It totally doesn’t matter what you use if the sound guy can’t figure out how to mix at the board.

    • @oyajiblues
      @oyajiblues Рік тому

      Yep, how many times have I had attendees approach me on a break and tell me how bad the mix is... kinda destroys all my hard work to get the sound right on stage. Luckily, tech on boards and for live sound, in general, has made it much easier for someone who is tone deaf to sucseed.

    • @Spuzzmacher
      @Spuzzmacher Рік тому +1

      Hah same experience. Now I’m down to travelling w/ a tele, scarlet tunic + carbon copy bright & that’s it. It let me roll all my music money into a nicer guitar that’s wundebar to play & everything fits right in the case!

  • @JtotheP68
    @JtotheP68 2 роки тому +13

    For that gig, if you’d said to the hire company “I’ll just have a hot rod deluxe like everyone else does” you’d have saved yourself all this heartache!

  • @patrickcasey357
    @patrickcasey357 2 роки тому +2

    Been using the Helix for 6 years for every gig. My go to country patch is a Deluxe Reverb model with a compressor, slap back delay and a touch of verb. Sounds great.

  • @jessebfly
    @jessebfly 2 роки тому +12

    I'm a certified amp lover.. but this is really cool. I've always been curious about this. Talking with a good friend and fellow amp geek who's on tour w a major act, he told me "we hardly use amps anymore".. I nearly cried when I heard this but most of his gigs are fly in dates where hauling big gear is really a hinderance. I get it.

  • @gr81dorn
    @gr81dorn 2 роки тому +10

    I A/B'd the Iridium and the ACS1 from Walrus Audio as a pretty apples to apples product and I only really cared about the Fender clean type sound and the ACS1 is astoundingly great-sounding in the standard Fender setting that it comes with ...shockingly great. I highly recommend guys looking for a really legit country-sounding amp that the ACS1 is a little better than the Iridium...maybe a lot better. It also has a cool stereo feature that the ididium doesn't offer if you like to mimic running to two amps.

    • @blairmichaelhogan4502
      @blairmichaelhogan4502 2 роки тому +1

      I haven’t tried the Walrus but I own an iridium and based just on the UA-cam comparisons I’ve seen this checks out 100%. I’ve struggled a bit and gone through a good few IR’s to get the deluxe setting to sound good on the iridium. The Chime and Punch seem to sound good stock but it lacks the high headroom, pedal platform thing I need from a Fender in its stock format.

  • @chuckhall1015
    @chuckhall1015 2 роки тому

    Fabulous sound...nice explanation. Merry Christmas Zac!

  • @ShinyShinyBlack
    @ShinyShinyBlack 2 роки тому +2

    I’m so glad you touched on the user interface - I really think tools like the Iridium or the Simplifier (which has XLR outs!) are such a great solution for the majority of players - especially those of us who have a board we already love that’s set up to work well with traditional amplifiers!

  • @davemassie3726
    @davemassie3726 2 роки тому

    Nice Zac, love your Tele! Thanks for sharing. Happy holidays.

  • @ranchoricardo
    @ranchoricardo 2 роки тому +1

    Thanks so much, Zac! I've been looking for a satisfactory direct solution, torn between a few options (the Iridium included). The simplified user interface of the Iridium keeps steering me down the Strymon road as well. Glad to hear it worked out so well for you. I think you may have helped me make up my mind!

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +3

      Glad I could help!

  • @daringbarons
    @daringbarons 2 роки тому +1

    I’ve come full circle a couple times. I always used amps for awhile, then no amp for awhile, now back to amps with few to no pedals. That balance between convenience and sound is always present.

  • @mikeb1841
    @mikeb1841 2 роки тому

    During the intro I just thought your amp was hidden and you were showcasing pedals lol. Sounds sooooo good!

  • @sgriffett541
    @sgriffett541 2 роки тому

    that true tone youtube guitar sound, that made some of the greats sound great, dialed righthere folks... thanks Zak!

  • @telecasterbear
    @telecasterbear 2 роки тому

    Thanks for spreading joy.

  • @tonyfdesign
    @tonyfdesign 2 роки тому

    Sounds great! I recently bought the Two-Notes Captor X. It's great with headphones and the IR options are fun to experiment with. Although I must say there are so many, it can be overwhelming and easy to spend practice time "messing around" with so many options.

  • @stephenleake81
    @stephenleake81 2 роки тому

    I’ve been using an Iridium and a Flint on my board for about a year now. Thanks for your input.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому

      Very Nice!

  • @iamgcase
    @iamgcase 2 роки тому +1

    I appreciate your honesty. Direct is really easy, if you just do it!!!

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому

      Absolutely!

  • @nostromo4269
    @nostromo4269 2 роки тому +3

    Personally I prefer the amp. Night and day difference in sound. Especially compared to your deluxe. The amp is warm and chunky, where the direct system is like unsalted butter

  • @Tony15068
    @Tony15068 2 роки тому +1

    I have a TM Deluxe (BF) but I also recently purchased an Iridium. IMO, the two biggest issues are using your pedalboard that you are already completely familiar with and the fact that the Iridium provides a level of consistency no matter the venue.

  • @DaleBoyle
    @DaleBoyle 2 роки тому

    Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences Zac :)

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому

      My pleasure!

  • @dougwerner4588
    @dougwerner4588 2 роки тому +4

    Hi Zac, I am using the Milkman Amp on a similar board for small quiet stage gigs. It replaces the Flint on my board since it has REV and TREM footswitches. It has a great cab sim and a 12AX7 tube to give me a 95% Princeton Reverb tone with my Glaser tele into the board. In Ears or a QSC K8 sounds pretty nice but it takes some adjustment not having an amp behind me. Welcome to the future!

    • @TheGtrjim
      @TheGtrjim 2 роки тому +1

      My gig is a board with my effects going into my Milkman The Amp 50 and just lining it into the house boards. It is more than enough for the places I gig at

  • @DadRockAndGuitars
    @DadRockAndGuitars 2 роки тому +4

    Very cool. Nice, simple, and straight forward rig that makes sense for certain situations. Can't wait until all the venues make drummers play electronic kits to keep the stage volume down 😂

  • @samuelhatman8995
    @samuelhatman8995 2 роки тому

    In my effort to add to my own channel, yes, I saw your Dang, perfect honest entertaining content. Iridium! But on the shelf halfway through, I see Robbie Robertson Testimony, go and order the book and find the music by Robbie "How to be Clairvoyant." The rest of your episode has him in the background on another tab. Thanks Zac, it's a great day. Your shared knowledge and experiences and a new to me song from Robbie and a good Book to boot. Thanks indeed... Merry Christmas to you and yours!

  • @roscoenyc
    @roscoenyc 2 роки тому +4

    Excellent look at the box. "On the gig" indeed. These are also mighty good for the simple home recording setup. I've got the OX but a bunch of my pals are using the Iridium and I was just suggesting it for somebody who was new to home recording.

    • @otisgibbs
      @otisgibbs 2 роки тому +4

      Ya never know who you're gonna meet around these parts! : )

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      @roscoenyc I only made the jump as I felt I had to for my own sanity. I hate futzing with rental amps. So many are ragged out.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +2

      @Otis gibbs, Great to see you! I hope to meet in person one day!

    • @roscoenyc
      @roscoenyc 2 роки тому

      @@AskZac makes sense! Probably better than the "get my tone from a pedal with some big clunker of an amp" strategy!

    • @roscoenyc
      @roscoenyc 2 роки тому

      @@otisgibbs Hey Otis!

  • @jimleininger8963
    @jimleininger8963 2 роки тому +1

    Outstanding! I run a similar rig, but I run my Flint after Iridium, followed by a Strymon Deco. I love old tube amps! Always will. However, I also love old hit and miss engines, but I prefer driving my modern Cummins RAM truck and would never haul my RV around with a hit and miss engine...

  • @gorandalls
    @gorandalls 2 роки тому

    I went direct a while back. I used the Strymon for a bit but I switched to the Tech 21 Flyrig. It has built in reverb and XLR out plus you can switch between the blonde setting and the plexi setting

  • @memorylossreversal
    @memorylossreversal 2 роки тому

    I started using a POD in the mid 90's for playing in church. Even though I'm totally a tube amp guy, it was easy set up (especially when you're only playing 4-5 songs ie 15-18 mins.). Hard to justify an amp for only that much. And, when you can't turn up load enough for a tube amp to start working well. Just have to make certain you get a good monitor feed because without it, you can't hear anything. Now I'm using a Deluxe Tone Master because I have a line out for the board but I can use my amp as my monitor.

  • @Strumbum01
    @Strumbum01 2 роки тому

    Thank you for this Zac! I’ve been pondering the idea of trying the Iridium for smaller gigs to save me from lugging my amps. I may have to invest in one now to save me some back pain.

  • @frankenstein4106
    @frankenstein4106 2 роки тому +1

    Love the Karma MTN-10, a great pedal with some sweet tones!

  • @klvs2ply
    @klvs2ply Місяць тому

    I’m hearing a lot about the Revv D20 which is basically a deluxe designed in Nashville to go direct!!! Supposedly it sounds better direct than a kemper and much easier to use.

  • @christianstevens9804
    @christianstevens9804 Рік тому

    I love my iridium and just getting started with an H9

  • @littlerhodyguitar2169
    @littlerhodyguitar2169 2 роки тому

    Always enjoy your content 👍

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому

      I appreciate that!

  • @williamsanderson9279
    @williamsanderson9279 2 роки тому

    Great video Zac. Sorry I missed the Vegas show. Looking forward to meeting you in person sometime in the future.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому

      That would be a treat.

  • @caleshtcincredibles
    @caleshtcincredibles 2 роки тому

    Great video Zac , I have been a DI dude for 2 years now for many reasons, convenience, poor or lack of a decent or usable backline amps. Sonically they sound good enough for rock and roll and really make loading in and sound check a breeze !

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      Totally agree

  • @scoobers90
    @scoobers90 2 роки тому

    I started playing guitar in '01 when modeling was in its infancy. Got a used Twin Reverb a couple years later and swore nothing digital could compete. Fast forward to my late 20s/early 30s, living in apartments, a Twin ain't gonna work. I started using Biasamp a few years ago and loved it, and recently got a Helix and don't think I'll buy an amp again...

  • @wallymarx9646
    @wallymarx9646 2 роки тому

    Crazy -- I was looking at the Iridium last week. I have a lot of vintage and new amps. The other player in our band just got a Helix. That's a beast of a machine, but he gets all the tones we need for a wide range of covers. It's a great way to manage the volume, and the new equipment makes it sound really good.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому

      Very cool!

  • @randalclarke5487
    @randalclarke5487 2 роки тому +1

    Fwiw, I'm a longtime tube amp fanatic, but the last couple years live been using analog all-solid state amps for electric, full band gigs, mostly an 80s Marshall 5210 and love the consistency and freedom from worrying about breaking down and the tone is just fine. Just saying- been gigging professionally since 1991

  • @scotthd2841
    @scotthd2841 2 роки тому

    This video helped allay some of my fears, Thanks!

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому

      Glad it helped!

  • @CC-te5zf
    @CC-te5zf 2 роки тому

    The intro sounds amazing with headphones.

  • @gustafson907
    @gustafson907 2 роки тому

    I’ve been playing an amp head with a captor x as the speaker cab, seems to do the trick for DI applications .

  • @tradbowtimewithuncledan2686
    @tradbowtimewithuncledan2686 2 роки тому

    I played direct some on the late 90's. Then about 5 years back I went direct with a huge church. Now I bought the Tele Acoustasonic a few months back through a Bose it is pretty dang good. Oddly enough I am enjoying my custom built broadcaster with a Street Cube Ex. Now I built that tele. Rio in is the one and only Pick up...in the bridge and the bridge is lefty and I am righty

  • @alexmbrenner
    @alexmbrenner 2 роки тому +1

    I record with amp sims exclusively now. I honestly can’t tell the difference between the tube amps I had. But it depends what music you are making. For heavy rock amp sims are great. For country I’d much rather have an old Princeton or something.

  • @martyc4906
    @martyc4906 2 роки тому

    Great & informative video.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      Glad it was helpful!

  • @richardelson3261
    @richardelson3261 10 місяців тому

    Thanks for this Zak. My own solution is the Yamaha THR100HD head. Lightweight, carry it in a regular backpack, can put it through speakers or go direct or both. Dials in like an amp sounds like an amp and behaves like one with many more tones including doubling up tones (which I do). Seriously under appreciated recording and gigging amp

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  9 місяців тому +1

      Great tip!

  • @TeleBlaster
    @TeleBlaster 2 роки тому

    I have tried so many direct solutions.
    Joyo American
    AMT F1 and Mooer Radar
    Iridium with a million different IRs (York audio Matchless was a winner)
    Just got a Simplifier DLX.
    Blows them all away.
    I havn't tried ACS1 but it gets good reviews.

  • @smellytele9629
    @smellytele9629 2 роки тому

    The Iridium is great. I used one with my pedalboard like how you have yours set up. Recently jumped into the Fractal universe with an FM3 and I'm totally blown away. Is it as good as my stable of vintage and "boutique" amps? Completely different experience. Not better, not worse, it's its own thing. I'm an old amp dog and I resisted any kind of modelers or profilers for a long time, but in the last year I've done many gigs where the venue and/or the artist who hired me asked for an "ampless" set up. Didn't think I could possibly enjoy gigging running direct, but I was wrong. In some ways I prefer going the modeler route for live use. Your setup sounds great in this vid!

  • @monmixer
    @monmixer 10 місяців тому

    radial is good for sure. There was a nice guitar DI awhile back called the redbox that sounded pretty good. they were popular but I haven't seen one in 20 years and I see a lot of everything.

  • @ChristopherDowning
    @ChristopherDowning 10 місяців тому

    I've had a digital DV Mark Raw Dawg now for 5 years - pretty much since they came out and before the Tone Masters were launched. However many high-level pedals I buy, speaker replacements, and however I set the EQ and the EQ pedal I have in the loop - it never sounds like my good ol' DLR. I think Zac is on the money in the end - number one the DLR - number 2 the AC10.

  • @allenmitchell09
    @allenmitchell09 2 роки тому +1

    We have everything! So, what do you want? Na, ain’t got that.

  • @fivewattworld
    @fivewattworld 2 роки тому +20

    Nice! Good to see you dragged into the modeling world Zac! :)

    • @jltrem
      @jltrem 2 роки тому +2

      And he didn't go kicking and screaming...not that we could ever imagine Zac (Mr. Amiable) kicking and screaming.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +7

      It was better than I thought!

    • @BV_Beve
      @BV_Beve 2 роки тому +3

      salut Keith mon ami ! & there is even more pick dynamics 'direct' with the DSM & Humboldt Simplifier Deluxe you have to try it out plus the updated Walrus Audio Mako ACS1 much improved as 'pedal' direct solutions !)

    • @scotthd2841
      @scotthd2841 2 роки тому +4

      Are you referring to the Iridium, or the rodeo queens?

  • @mooseymoose
    @mooseymoose 2 роки тому +1

    Quilter Superblock US is the best of all worlds for me, 25w or 1w if you run it off a pedal supply. XLR out with cab sim, reverb and an effects loop and it is far better than the modelers to my ears. I sold all my tube amps but one (no real reason and I never play it) and I miss none of them. The UK version is really nice too,

  • @jakestewartmusic
    @jakestewartmusic 2 роки тому

    I love playing direct on certain gigs, and I love amps on others. Loud cowpunk band starting mosh pits at the honky tonk? I bring an Esquire and an amp for that gig. Radiohead inspired textures where I'm doubling on synthesizers with a soft vocalist and blend of acoustic and electronic drums? Direct is way more inspiring for that... Each has their place

  • @UltimateElvisGuitar
    @UltimateElvisGuitar 2 роки тому

    For beginners, a good start to check these pedals out is Joyo's "American Sounds", for blackface Fenders basically... They are very cheap, but get the job done. I got one a few years ago and it was great. But yeah, Iridium is a huge step up! I absolutely love Strymon.

    • @dahliafiend
      @dahliafiend 2 роки тому +1

      Ya I got one last week cause I’m broke and it’s so much better than the plug-in sounds in my DAW, it’s also better than any of the croaky practice amps I’ve owned.

  • @Santaheckler
    @Santaheckler Рік тому

    I’m surprised you didn’t go for the Dream 65…would love to hear your take on it!

  • @CBGypsy03
    @CBGypsy03 2 роки тому +4

    The simplifier deluxe is a go to for sure, but a real amp still takes the pudding !! 🍮

  • @maxwrangler5788
    @maxwrangler5788 2 роки тому

    "hello, hello , hello are there any amps in there?" lol love ya Zac

  • @MrLiqid
    @MrLiqid 2 роки тому

    great video, but one topic i was hoping you would tell is how does it feel in live gig under the fingers

  • @theirritatedirishman5440
    @theirritatedirishman5440 2 роки тому +1

    I’ve been servicing and building amps for years! Built some of the first boxes for Kenny Fischer of TrainWreck and then had Denny Kager from Sundown amps as a mentor. Both those guys along with George Alessandro became heavy influences on me. What I noticed back then and still now is the inconsistency of tube amps sound & feel with change of weather. Noise I can deal with but the feel of amp being stiff or sound shrill I hate! I have not played enough through solid state preamp pedals and going direct but the more I hear stuff and what little I have tried, I beginning to love. It’s always consistent. My question is how does it feel? Your setup even through my iPhone sounds great! Plus the fact you’re a killer player helps. Thanks.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      It feels very "in your face." So direct to your ears sounding. Takes a bit to get used to, then I am fine, but miss my amp.

  • @the-LeoKnightus
    @the-LeoKnightus 2 роки тому +1

    Done quite a bit of direct and not every really stoked with the tone and feel while I am playing...then I listen back and say...."I woulda had to get a lot right...and prob lucky with mics and sound guy etc...to capture a guitar sound that good with an amp."
    Funny. For convenience sake...it's great. And sound too.

  • @normanmcneal3605
    @normanmcneal3605 2 роки тому

    I don’t have pedals. I have a 1980s Peavey studio pro( first non tube that I know of). It finally quit on me last year. I sent it back to Peavey. I bought a modeling champion 40, thinking I’d never see my Peavey again.
    Love my modeling amp, but the repaired Peavey is better.
    It’s as buying firearms, most equipment shoots better than the shooter!

  • @fretbuzz70
    @fretbuzz70 2 роки тому

    I've been using a Line6 HX Stomp and a pair of Eventide H9 pedals when I have to go direct. Its nothing like the symbiotic relationship of a tube amp rig but it'll get you though...

  • @robertdavis1116
    @robertdavis1116 2 роки тому +3

    I ain't nobody...but....If I can't mic my amp...have floor monitors (no ear budz)...and have the sound guys "work for me" I ain't playin'...soooooo....I ain't playin'...live oak county tx

  • @robertfair1770
    @robertfair1770 2 роки тому

    Well it's nice to use something you are somewhat familiar with ie Iridium. Kemper and HX stomp are way to complex if your not familiar and that's a brain fart I would not like to have on a first gig with a direct rig.. Good info ..

  • @gotzonmujika9900
    @gotzonmujika9900 2 роки тому

    Great video Zac! can you share your experience in flying with vintage guitars? Thanks!

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      It was fine, as long as I got on the plane early to get it in the overhead.

  • @crubenbauer1
    @crubenbauer1 2 роки тому

    Zac, there may be one more "wild card", issue. The sound of the Stage and Room. Had you found the need to EQ your overall sound? This issue can be dealt with , with those magic Tone Controls.

  • @TheGtrjim
    @TheGtrjim 2 роки тому

    My rig has turned into a board. I run my pedals into my Milkman The Amp 50 and line it into the stage PAs.

  • @WayneMemphisMojo
    @WayneMemphisMojo 2 роки тому

    If you like that ... try those Strymon pedals in stereo

  • @quiksilver78
    @quiksilver78 2 роки тому

    Have you tried or considered the Walrus ACS1? And why not use the IRs from Celestion?

  • @CargoShorts7
    @CargoShorts7 Рік тому

    Hey Zac, do you have an episode on in-ear monitors? I play in a banc in the Triangle, NC area where a couple of my bandmates use in-ears and are making a push to get the rest of the band to use them too. Thing is, I just love hearing my tone from my amp and getting anything else I need from a monitor on stage. It does sometimes lead to mix issues, or not being able to hear my own vocals. But I'm averse to using in-ears because I've gotten it in my head that there's no way a tiny speaker could sound the same as my actual amp in the room with all the ambient space and what not. So what's your take on in-ears? Are they a guitar player's friend? Are there better ways to achieve the tone you desire, but still hear the rest of your band clearly, or are in-ears really the only solution? Cheers!

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  Рік тому +1

      I have not done an episode on this yet. I will

  • @kylecravens8052
    @kylecravens8052 2 роки тому

    Have you checked out the DSM Simplifier/Deluxe? I have the deluxe and love it!

  • @GregoryTanner-ut8zk
    @GregoryTanner-ut8zk 2 місяці тому

    i know robben ford has amp alot of others too i can do both i like amps i dont record very much like you guys im taking note thanks zac

  • @alafenetre81
    @alafenetre81 2 роки тому +3

    Very interesting as always. I use a Line6 Helix, and you're right going direct is convenient, but the feel is different, and I miss the vibration of an amp.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      Well said!

  • @jchavins
    @jchavins 2 роки тому

    in any decent sound system at a club, dance hall, local bar etc the guitar is going to go to a mixer and main sound system.....if not there's no hope for a consistent sound as there's always a volume battle within the bands,,,,its normal. Once patched into a main system the output comes out a speaker array that is nothing like the speaker in your amp. The amp becomes your own stage sound and the sound coming out of the main must be adjusted.......all you really need is an amp that patches and if required the speaker unplugs......the monitor circuit also raises its ugly head as it will sound different also. It really shows up if you aren't going thru a monitor mixing system.....I don't understand why it has taken so long for information we new in the 1980's to go mainstram....

  • @asleepinthealley
    @asleepinthealley 2 роки тому

    You got the Sonic Research Turbo Tuner.

  • @nathanpickett202
    @nathanpickett202 2 роки тому

    Wichita Union Stockyards less than 2 miles from my house. Unfortunately I have other plans that evening.

  • @JamesHindsW5ATJ
    @JamesHindsW5ATJ 2 роки тому

    Great video Zac. Are you using the single channel Radial JDI?

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому

      Not in this video. Going from Iridium to the powered speakers

  • @johnpandolfino8663
    @johnpandolfino8663 Рік тому

    I have a Pandoras box which is ancient.... I use it to practice with headphones as I live in an apartment complex..... I also have a Pod mini which I got after one night at a jam and a friend setting me up with through his Fender pro junior..... I've never used a setup without an amp unless I was recording which I would use either the Pod or the Pandora...... I haven't played out in quite a while....so it's interesting to hear that more clubs are not using amps......the Chinese created pandemic really screwed things up when it comes to clubs and open mic night blues jams.....at least around here.....missed your point with my first post.....

  • @coyotefurtrumpet
    @coyotefurtrumpet 2 роки тому

    Would add a eq pedal to move around the other players other than that, sweet sounds.

  • @douglasgreen5234
    @douglasgreen5234 2 роки тому +3

    When playing for churches (which is most of my experience) they never let you bring an amp anymore. I've found that the sound guy makes my fairly nice Taylor sound like a tin can. I've pretty much decided to bring my $250 beater and run it through whatever mic they give me. Why spend money on what never gets heard?

    • @christophergallagher531
      @christophergallagher531 2 роки тому +2

      I have never heard an accoustic with electronics that sounded any good at all.
      Piazos sound like nails on a chalk board to me. Any attack sets that off.
      They make a $3,000.00 guitar sound like a $250.00 campfire guitar. So why road a nice ax? Chris

  • @derekslam
    @derekslam 2 роки тому +1

    I could have written this monologue for you. Would I rather be playing through my Deluxe Reverb or Princeton Reverb? Yes. Am I willing to try to coax a usable tone out of a beat up piece of crap backline amp on another fly out date? No. I tried the Iridium, but ending up going with the Kemper. If you're going to fly Southwest, you should know the "hat trick." You and the bass player take the aisle & window seats in the back row. Hold your hat in your hand at head level over the center seat. As people walk down the aisle looking for a seat they will see the 3 "heads" & think your row is full and seek a seat elsewhere. Only works if the flight is not completely full. You're welcome.

  • @johnmccarthy9445
    @johnmccarthy9445 2 роки тому

    Hi Zac. Do you go direct to your speakers? I have an Iridium, but I go iridium into a Scarlett, and then into my Mac. From there I go to my speakers. Your way looks a lot easier!

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому

      Direct to powered speakers

  • @yadayada369
    @yadayada369 2 роки тому

    I'm another tube snob that finally had to move to a DI rig for a band last year and got a Joyo AC Tone and CabDryVR for less than a hundred bucks that easily sounds better than a helix, and at least as good or better than a Kemper or The AxeFX my buddy has spent years sending my A/B's that I can pick out the digits on every time.😆 And like the iridium I just toss 'em on the back end of my pedal board and go - with out the programming hassle AxeFX are!

  • @TheDullBoy
    @TheDullBoy Рік тому

    Hey Zac, how do you power those 7 pedals with the Truetone Cs6? Nice setup even with the Flint! Cheers ✌🏿🎸

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  Рік тому +1

      I use an MC2 splitter to power both the tuner and compressor.

  • @alwatsky
    @alwatsky 2 роки тому +1

    How’s about a Milkman “the amp”. Got your verb and trem on board. Small footprint. Sounds dandy.

  • @antoonhermans8953
    @antoonhermans8953 2 роки тому +1

    Hi Zac , you where saying you wanted an a deluxe with an direct out , well the tonemaster has an direct out , so i guess you can use it for direct playing ? But do you have to put in silent mode when doing so ?

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      I like the TM Blonde Deluxe, and like its direct out. You don't have to have it in silent mode for the XLR to be active.

    • @antoonhermans8953
      @antoonhermans8953 2 роки тому

      @@AskZac ok , thanks zac .

  • @jspendleton3898
    @jspendleton3898 Рік тому

    Zac, have you tried the Quilter products? Specifically the Superblock? Asking because I'm trying to figure all of this out myself. The Superblock (and similar products like H &K Ampman) is appealing because it's all analog, so no software updates, file buying, etc. Trade-off probably is the cab sim output likely suffers from but being digital.

  • @RaxFx
    @RaxFx 2 роки тому +1

    Cali76, Rockett Archer, Flint & Iridium - what else?

  • @mjvicc1952
    @mjvicc1952 2 роки тому +1

    Zac, this question is a bit off topic, what’s your opinion of Leo Fender’s last creation at his namesake company, I’m talking about the Jaguar. I know it was supposed to be their flagship product that never took off the ground. It offers a myriad of tonal possibilities and I’m particularly interested in its applicability to country music with the option of engaging the strangle switch. Yep, I know the tone is “in the fingers” but I highly respect your analysis and opinion.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      I don't like its shorter scale

    • @mjvicc1952
      @mjvicc1952 2 роки тому

      Your dislike of the shorter scale is it the feel or the tonal quality? What is lacking for you specifically?

  • @svendtveskg5719
    @svendtveskg5719 2 роки тому

    It's easy, it's close, it's convenient, especially on flight-gigs. But I have to say, that it sounds nothing like the Deluxe reverb you normally use. THAT sounds very, very good. :-)

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      Well said!

  • @robertgoodman1454
    @robertgoodman1454 2 роки тому

    Zac, check out the Diso+ by Pinstripe pedals 👍🏼

  • @mmike65m
    @mmike65m 2 роки тому

    Zac, what model JBL powered speakers were you using? I have the Iridium and have been using it as well as a glorified headphone amp. I have tried different FRFR's but have found nothing I like. I want to try powered speakers next, but am unfamiliar with that rabbit hole. Thanks for the video.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      305p mk2

    • @mmike65m
      @mmike65m 2 роки тому

      @@AskZac Sorry one more question, 5, 6, or 8 inch speaker? Thanks so much for the response, and ordered the Pinecaster book on your recommendation :)

    • @mmike65m
      @mmike65m 2 роки тому

      Sorry the 5 means 5 inch, got it!

  • @xCarlosx19
    @xCarlosx19 Рік тому

    Have you tried the Quilter Superblock US? Those are great

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  Рік тому

      I have not

    • @xCarlosx19
      @xCarlosx19 Рік тому

      @@AskZac i think you should, they come with a XLR out

  • @rikkousa
    @rikkousa 2 роки тому

    Does anyone know if the Mustang Micro HP amp that Zac mentioned with Bluetooth is available on the market? All of the ones I have seen are wired.

    • @WithTheGrain
      @WithTheGrain 2 роки тому

      They are Bluetooth TO the device. You used wired headphones, but you can use Bluetooth to pump music into the amp so you can play along.

  • @michaelmurphy7987
    @michaelmurphy7987 2 роки тому

    Hi Zac have you ever heard of the Mojo tone Telecaster no hum pickups?

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      Have not tried them yet

    • @michaelmurphy7987
      @michaelmurphy7987 2 роки тому

      @@AskZac Happy Holidays Zac could you do a review on the Mojotone Noiseless Telecaster pickups in the future?

  • @johnpandolfino8663
    @johnpandolfino8663 Рік тому

    Who's on first...... I don't know......
    I used to go to a blues jam and the back line was a couple of fender hot rod deluxe's..... I'd bring my tube screamer.....sounded great....
    All the amps were mic-ed and run through the board and mixed out front.....

  • @howardskinner4916
    @howardskinner4916 Рік тому

    Hey Zac, have you ever tried a FlyRig5 from Tech21? I like the Blonde voice amp sim.

  • @jameskrys5286
    @jameskrys5286 2 роки тому

    Also no chance of getting zapped by a faulty ground?

  • @christophergallagher531
    @christophergallagher531 2 роки тому +2

    I felt like crying when finding out Pete Anderson went direct. Of course he had been pulling the wool over my eyes for years.
    This tec got good.
    The way Zak approaches the amp, it is just breathing.
    Low gauze pick ups have their place in this fantastic discipline. Here the guitar is alive, not dampened by strong magnets.
    At these modest volumes with 18 watts working, there is not much interaction between the amp and guitar.
    I love that natural feed back feel.
    I may find a thin line some day.
    An ES335 helps with this.
    Dynamic range has been key in
    my approach.
    Thanks Zak, for a close look at the subtle side of things. Chris

    • @DaveBroTube
      @DaveBroTube Рік тому

      Not just direct, but original Line 6 Pods! TBF, Line 6 did model his personal amps and burn custom ROMs for the Pods. But Pete felt the sound was indistinguishable from his real amps.

    • @christophergallagher531
      @christophergallagher531 Рік тому

      @@DaveBroTube sound is one different, than playability.
      A pro is a pro.

  • @f.kleuser2847
    @f.kleuser2847 2 роки тому

    Great video Zac! Which IR of the pack did you use? Thx!

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      The V30

    • @f.kleuser2847
      @f.kleuser2847 2 роки тому

      @@AskZac Yes, but which one of the V30 pack? There are so many.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 роки тому +1

      @@f.kleuser2847 I will have to plug my Iridium into my computer and check. I believe it was with a 57 and a ribbon mic, both closer to edge of cone.

    • @f.kleuser2847
      @f.kleuser2847 2 роки тому

      @@AskZac Thanks a lot!