Close to a BBE.. sounds really good

guitar3456 · March 2006

Guys, MF is blowing out these units for 39.99 They sound awesome with GNX or many other units. I use them in PA's as well. Once they're gone they're gone!

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Live/Sound/Signal/Processors?sku=182437

Dobb · March 2006

Thanks Mike,

Just got mine, thats a smokin' deal!

:shock: :shock: They ship to Canada now too! :shock: :shock:
Anyway I saw this too, and couldn't help myself, another great deal:

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Live/Sound/Microphones/Wireless?sku=273156&c_tid=topseller

Check out the reviews, you can't beat the price!

Peace,
Dobb

guitar3456 · March 2006

I have 2 of those. I use them for Overheads that are much better than AKG's when compared. I like them since they are not as sensitive as some others for much more cost, but are very nice condensors.

Dobb · March 2006

Excellent!!!!Should be waiting at home when I finish work!!

Peace,
Dobb.

ne1roc · March 2006

\guitar3456\ wrote:

Guys, MF is blowing out these units for 39.99 They sound awesome with GNX or many other units. I use them in PA's as well. Once they're gone they're gone!

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Live/Sound/Signal/Processors?sku=182437

Wow! Too good to pass this one up.
Thanks.... just orderd it!

guitar3456 · March 2006

I just messed with one today with the YAM DtxSpecialII Elect Kit and it sounded really cool. I like it better than the 462 since it has the dimensional surround. It's pretty nifty for 40 bucks!

LDW · March 2006

guitar3456's comment about using it with the Yamaha DTX kit pushed me over the edge and I ordered one. I've got that kit so I will be excited to see what it does with the drums as well as the GNX. Here I am trying to shed some equipment and end up buying more....the never ending quest.
Besides, pyscho acuostic processing just sounds cool.

shando · March 2006

Hi dudes, I was going to ask a really dumb*ss question until I realised why it was so dumb. So here instead is another dumb*ss question in it's place! What will one of these Behringer things do exactly for an electric drumkit (I have a Roland kit)?

TY

$hando (King of Noobs)

Dobb · March 2006

Shando,

Basically, it will do what G3456 said for your kit too. This behringer deal is a similar device to a BBE sonic maximiser, or an aural exciter. I can't speak for the behringer (I'm sure it's VERY similar), but the BBE maximiser works kinda like this :

(correct me if I'm wrong guys, but if I remember the manual correctly) When different frequencies exit your speaker, they travel at different wavelengths (nee speed) based on their frequency. Thus the sounds don't hit your hear in the same \"order\" that they were meant to, when they were sent to the speaker. The BBE sonic maximiser corrects this so the sound hits your ear as it was meant to. On my BBE max-com, I also have a control that is basically a low end roll off, and a sort of a prescence control.

I've heard the behringer has a surround type \"wide\" thats pretty cool, anyway heres what behringer says the controls on the unit are:

Behringer EX2200 Dualfex Pro Features:

-Multibands audio enhancement system for adding bass power and high frequency transparency
-\"Natural Sonic\" processor provides ultra-musical sound improvement
-Variable Sound Processing circuit for simultaneous enhancer and exciter process
-\"Dual Mode\" ultra-bass enhancer produces soft or tight bass sounds
-Surround processor provides you real spatial enhancement and improved stereo imaging
-Servo-balanced 1/4\" TRS and RCA I/O

Thats a big mouthful for $40, anyway I'm looking forward to it and I already have a BBE....

I hope my ramblings helped,

Dobb.

LDW · March 2006

Nice work Dobb. I was going to reply with 'it makes it sound better' but your repsonse was more elequent. Shando, I don't know if 'opens up' the sound is more of descriptive term or not. Anyway, I hope to get it soon and tell y'all about it. If it's half as good as everyone says I may buy two more so I can have one for the drums, one for my guitar rig and one for my recording interface. We shall see.

By the way shando, there are no dumb *ss questions, only dumb *ss people of which I am the king. That's why these boards are here so we can discuss this stuff across all levels from noobs to experts.

zap · March 2006

The first time someone tried to answer my question of what a BBE was he raised both hands and spread them into stereo with finger movement(he wasn't even Italian) - and was at a loss for words. Even BBE's website under FAQ spends effort in telling you what it's not - not an enhancer/exciter and then finally states \"The best analogy for BBE technology is like eyeglasses for your audio system.\"

What does BBE stand for? Barcus Berry Electronics. That part is easy.

http://www.rane.com/pronames.html

guitar3456 · March 2006

On the DTX drums I have it one the outputs and feeding the mixer in's. It adds an expressive punch without the thud on the kick. The Floor tom (pad3) is ten times better. The cymbals are very responsive in mid-high ends. With the GNX, (I tried today) it allows more punch from High Gain presets. It does take away a bit of mids. I enhanced that even more by adjusting the AMP Model above 2.5Khz. For 40 bucks...pretty damn nice!! They have a more advanced replacement (EX3200) for 40 bucks more, but the reviews are less desirable it seems.

May not be fair assessment since others compare it to the BBE.. The surround mix is really cool. I've spent 300 bucks and got less from a processor. I took the EX2200 apart today to inspect the connectors wave soldered joints (as I do with any Behringer gear) low and behold....nice shiny balls of solder, and jacks with guide posts to prevent side to side movement. They've learned from their past.

I may give their micro series a shot. I have the Samson C Control and Behr has their version for 39.99. EFX, Headphone Amp, EQ, and other things in the micro series that look pretty cool. keep that one at the office or something...we'll see.

tantrum2k · March 2006

Just ordered mine... I can't wait.

iliace · March 2006

I still can't bring myself to get any of the new bargain-price Behringer stuff. Although, I must say, the UltraCurve Pro looks increasingly more appealing, each time I look at it. Anyone have experience with this or any standalone versions of its modules?

guitar3456 · March 2006

We started using Behringer gear once we started leasing equipment to bands and things of that nature. The only thing I have found with them is the connector problems. They seem to have remedied many of those. They now offer a warranty exchange program. If anything fails, send it back for a new one. Just a note here on QC issues:

Being a servicer of Pro Sound gear, we get dozens of various models from many respectable big name MFG's in the field. Many times we are shocked to see an ALLEN HEATH with defective anything..but we do. QSC amps are dominate as are Crown and we see quite a few of those. Difference in that is, the same Xistor for a QSC if OEM, is 5x the cost of that of a Peavey or Behringer using the exact same component. Is the part better? No , it's got the same generic stamp. It's Pros and Cons for any of the units, especially when moved around a lot like of ours are. I've repaired as many jacks on a RANE eq as I have Behringer. Maybe not a fair assessment but does show equivalent means of failure in use. We blew a channel on an Avalon Mic Pre under warr, and got it back 6 mos later...same problem. It happens everywhere. Behringer reputation is better on QC in the past several years. We see them, work on them and trust the product. Now most Mfgs are made outside the US anymore so it's hard to argue the made overseas point. The last Onyx unit we had was stamped..Taiwan. Moot point to many lately. Price is a great point in Behringer's favor. Tech Support...for the price of Behr...don't expect much. If it fails, buy a new one...now you can RA an exchange.

Iliace , I have several Ultracurve Pro units and they are great. Very very good at it's applications. The password LOCK is priceless!! We use the RTA for Live shows and PA setups. We use various generators depending on the venue. For a fixed HR install, these are nice as well. I wish they would bring back the 9024 ! Another fine unit of it's day and very usable once you know the functions.

OMT- many reviews of these units are from Users expecting too much, for so little. Each unit has a suited application but requires knowledgeable users to dig in. Most HC reviews are from users that know little if anything about the gear they bought. Behringer does nothing to train you except for apllications. You need to understand the features to Use them. I've seen many guys buy a X or Y unit, and expect it to do Z. Virtualizer is one of those often mistaken for other uses. Oddly enough, at a NAMM show we found out that BEHR reps at tech support will not acknowledge emails, give support, upgrades, tech assist from non registered product users. PLEASE sign in, register your gear. I found the same thing lately with EMU..they won't even talk to you until you have regsitered your product. They will not train you either. I bought an Xboard 49, and the qustions we had were basic, but to the rep.. he assumed we knew all about the usage. It happens everywhere !

zap · March 2006

Just wanted to point out to the pros and friends here a possible cause of noise/quirks with their GNX gear and computer. Let's take a closer look:
http://www.rwonline.com/dailynews/one.php?id=8552

guitar3456 · March 2006

That's been going on for a while. Most of that was related to low budget private stations and Broadcast units like the 9024's, Composer Pro's etc. Most mfg's products barely reach the compliancy tests. The FCC claim is legit, but by technicality of Behr not filing properly (timely) for US distribution with associated data from tests from NON A2LA certified testers. The technicality is one of petitioning for the Class B label which was not required at the time so long it was CE (european) certified. Most we talked to at NAMM said it's a joke and that too will be overturned on appeal since Behringer established a US facility that is overseen and meets all standards. Second, the FCC compliancy is only applicable to PC usages. The products are technically sold under class A commercial grade. The case lingers. I'm sure the fine will be reduced if not dismissed.

Most of their gear now has the FCC compliancy label Class B compliancy and European Certif \"CE\". Notice earlier models did not have the CE label although they met European standards which in fact are higher in most cases. Since then, CE marks must be on all US/EURO mfg's units. That is so long as they are 120-240v adjustable or interchangable. One of the guys at NAMM said FCC filed suit against the company that makes the TV advertised BELL and Howell Shaver!! Apparently it's EMI/RF noise limits are not tested.

Crest Audio was hit a while back with the same problem. Their response was lack of O2 free cables in most facilities. They had the CE label. The FCC dropped the suit. Phonic corporation will be next..just watch. If users are concerned, they can find out more info. I've never had an emissions problem with these units.

You can find out here about labeling and compliancy to EMI etc.:

http://www.pseinc.com/faq.htm#What is FCC Part 15?

GNX™ · March 2006

Here's a demo of the Aural Exciter so you can sort of get a feel for what this device does. You'll need Shockwave, although I can't see why they couldn't have just posted a before and after sound clip since there's no real interactive feature.

smegolas · March 2006

attn canadian buyers: what has been your experience with buying from MF? did you have to pay any additional duties of cdn taxes, etc?

also, would you guys say that the mic whould be a good mic to own for doing your acoustic guitar recording into protracks through the gnx4?

Dobb · March 2006

Hey Smeg S'up;

I've been researching new equipment online for a while, so I've been on the MF site lotsa times. I'm sure they've only starting shipping to Canada for mere weeks.

When I ordered basically I got this email;

Dear Rob,

Items from Order 100XXXX have been shipped to our International Consolidation Center. The shipped package contains the following items:

Product Name Quantity
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone with Shockmount: 1
EX2200 Dualfex Pro: 1

It will take two (2) to six (6) days to arrive at our facility, depending on the shipping method that you selected. Once your package arrives at our International Consolidation Center, it will be processed and prepared for international shipment.

Your order will not ship to you until all items have been received at our International Consolidation Center. You will be notified via email once your order is shipped to you.

For answers to commonly asked questions, please review our help section at
http://mf.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/mf.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=898.

Thank you for shopping with us,
Musician's Friend International Customer Support.

If you read their policies, they will use USPS in most cases (when possible), which is much cheaper than the UPS/FEdex deal where you gotta pay a broker $50.00. When I've received other gear in this manner, I only end up paying the GST for the items upon pickup from the post office. (Lotsa times when I order tuners or other small parts, they come right to my mailbox.). We still get the same price gaurantee, and return policy, etc, etc. It all looked good to me, HTH.

Peace,
Dobb.

ne1roc · March 2006

Hey Smegolas,
This is my first order from MF so it should be interesting. I figured for the price, you can't do to much damage. I did notice in my billing that customs and duties charges was $0.00.

Parkhill · March 2006

Hey everybody. Since we're talking deals here, I came across these mics the other day. Audio Technica 4050's, variable pattern condensers. They still cost a fair amount, but they're currently $120 less than I can find them anywhere else. Usually $600 a piece. I say \"they\" because I just grabbed a couple for stereo applications. Sweet! The low price made me a little cautious but I contacted zzounds a few times to make sure they weren't b-stock or anything like that. They say it's completely legit. The same as if I bought them anywhere else. Here is the link:

http://www.zzounds.com/item--AUTAT4050

I swear I'm not working for them or anything. I used to post on the old forum. I still check in and see what's happening here, but never really post. I just thought someone might benefit from this though. By the way, anyone ever use a MOTU 896HD?

GNX™ · March 2006

Could someone here record something with this device and then without it so we could see what the difference is?

smegolas · March 2006

i just ordered the MXL mic and the Behringer unit. What connections do I need?

ne1roc · March 2006

\smegolas\ wrote:

i just ordered the MXL mic and the Behringer unit. What connections do I need?

An XLR mic cable for the mic, and I would get a set of 1/4 TRS cables to go from the output of the GNX4 to the Behringer and set of TRS-XLR cables to go from the Behringer to your Monitors.

LDW · March 2006

GNX, I will try to get something recorded this weekend. The example you posted is pretty close to what happens.

The unit was waiting for me when I got home today and a quick test (within 15 minutes) I tried it in between my stompbox and amp (Les Paul through a TonelabSE, I know, I have to dig the digitech out of the closet now, to a fender FM 212 R set flat) and the results were sweet. Then on to my my stombox and Tascam board running through my M Audio monitors (sweeter) and I just stuck it on my Yamaha DTX III through the Yamaha 250 watt monitors (sweetest). I was blown away by the difference it made on the drum kit! It takes this kit to a whole new level! I swear it is the best $40 bucks I have spent. It's like taking your fingers out of your ears. I am logging off here and ordering another one so I have one dedicated to the drums and one on the out end of my stompbox into whatever.

LDW · March 2006

Whew, I'm back. I had to get another one before everyone sucked them up. Thanks Guitar3456 for pointing these out. I will be excited to try it out on my GNX3 once your MFX baxics arrive. It may have a new life!

granitehead · March 2006

OK, I see how to simply hook it up between the GNX4's 1/4\" outs and my powered monitors, but how do I put it in line when recording with PTP? I'd like to:
1. Be able to add it to the entire mix during mixdown
2. Add it to individual tracks.
I guess want it to work like any dynamic effect you can add to a PTP track or bus.
Thanks! - g

ne1roc · March 2006

\granitehead\ wrote:

OK, I see how to simply hook it up between the GNX4's 1/4\" outs and my powered monitors, but how do I put it in line when recording with PTP? I'd like to:
1. Be able to add it to the entire mix during mixdown
2. Add it to individual tracks.
I guess want it to work like any dynamic effect you can add to a PTP track or bus.
Thanks! - g

Guitar -> GNX4 -> line-out -> Behringer -> GNX4 line-in
Set your output to SPLIT1. Recorder input to Line-Dry. Monitor from the XLR-outs.

This will record your processed signal to PTP but I don't know how to hook up external processors for final mixdowns in PTP. I use software plugins for that.

guitar3456 · March 2006

If you have hardware processors the easiest way is a patch bay. Then you can insert S/R for anything.

zap · March 2006

Even Rolls has gotten in on the action. http://bluebootmusic.misupply.com/Exciters-Enhancers-Rolls-b397d651.music

Close to a BBE.. sounds really good

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