Creating Your Own Sound - Zoom GFX-4 Operation Manual

Creating Your Own Sound

This section gives some pointers on how to get optimum performance from the unit. Use these hints as starting points
to explore the GFX-4 capabilities to the max.
• Compact distortion 2-stage sound
This is a frequently used setting for playing a solo with
the same sound character as the backing, but with more
distinct, solid sound.
Normally, the first stage will provide OD distortion
with moderate gain and high level, and the second
stage will be used to create the main distortion.
Take care not to apply excessive distortion,
because this setting places a considerable load
on the circuits and can lead to oscillation.
Guitar
Booster
[Sample Patches]
A02: ODROCK
Example for booster + overdrive combination
A11: HEAVY
Example for booster + high-gain distortion combination
• Technique for obtaining detailed distortion using
a compact effect and tube amp
This kind of setup is frequently used by professional
guitarists to further increase the distortion from the
guitar amplifier.
The GFX-4 makes it easy to duplicate this setup,
because the unit also features famous guitar amplifier
sounds. The technique can be applied also when not
playing at loud levels, such as during MTR recording.
The amp simulator will be useful in such cases.
Guitar
Compressor
GFX-4
[Sample Patches]
A01: GFXDRV
This uses light compression to extend sustain. Enhances
playing through a stack amp.
A23: TEXAS
Setting example for the sound of a famous late blues
guitarist from Texas. Adds punch to a combo amplifier.
• How to make optimum use of effect connection
sequence
The sonic impression created by an equalizer type
Guitar amp
Overdrive
GFX-4
VAMS
Mixer or MTR
Guitar amp
effect such as wah differs greatly, depending on
whether it is inserted before or after the distortion in
the signal path. When inserted before the distortion, it
emphasizes the point on which distortion is applied.
When inserted after the distortion, equalization acts
upon the entire sound.
The GFX-4 provides 2 effects in the COMP/OD/ENV
module and 4 effects in the MODULATION module
for which the connection point can be switched.
[Sample Patches]
C01: BZ-TAK
Setting example for inserting wah as equalizer before
distortion
C33: SATCH
Setting example for inserting phaser as equalizer before
distortion
• Using vintage effect sounds
The sound of many vintage effect devices still is very
attractive also in the digital age. Mastering the use of
such sounds will help you find your individual style.
For best results, avoid excessive distortion and let the
sound character of the selected device speak for itself.
[Sample Patches]
A12: FUSION
This is a vintage compressor and phaser sound.
A22: COOLWA
Setting example for a vintage pedal wah sound
b02: NIRVRN
Setting example for obtaining modern sound with a
vintage distortion effect
b21: FUZRVS
Setting example for a combination of vintage fuzz +
vintage wah + reverse-rotation delay
• Expression pedal secrets
The expression pedal of the GFX-4 incorporates a nifty
feature called assignable switch (see page 19).
The switch can be used to toggle between program
mode and manual mode. This enhances your flexibility
during a performance, because in manual mode, it is
possible to turn separate compact effects on and off
with the foot switches. For example, you can use the
feature to turn a modulation effect on and off or control
other the sound in other ways offered by manual mode.
[Sample Patch]
C23: JAZZOD
May be used also in manual mode only.
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ZOOM GFX-4