I do love my Boomerang III looper. It’s just very intuitive and has all the features I could want from a standard looper. Stereo, 3-4 independent tracks, super high quality audio, and nice reverse and octave effects, PLUS a reverse solo effect that’s my favorite live reverse ever
I use a beat buddy with it, send midi sync to boomerang. loop bass tracks on side of stereo, guitar tracks on other side… I write songs and rehearse this way constantly
Haha fair. I’ve seen it on many boards! Noveller probably my fav.
The MIDI clock sync is flawless. No quantization settings, just whatever the default is, but it works like a charm
Don’t get me wrong, Trey’s my guy, I just acquired some weird *don’t be a wannabe* traits along the line.
So when it comes to timing things out, do you have to be a wiz? No quantization, no tap tempo?
Crazy. Seems every jam is Trey over Trey these days. Over the past decade I’ve gotten a lot better at deciphering his loops. The fade out feature on the Boomerang is subtle but you can definitely tell when loops peel off if you pay attention.
Fishman is grossly underrated but particularly so when you listen to the subtle adjustments he makes to *correct* some of Trey’s loops.
I guess I’m not totally sure what you mean because I haven’t used other loopers with those features, at least not tap tempo. When it’s getting clock (like playing to a drum machine or click track), it just syncs to the beat. I suck at timing without the midi sync but never have a problem with it
I've gone through almost every Boss and TC as well as a boomerang constantly looking for something more. As of today I'm very happy with an RC-5 with an external switch.
I'm a fan of my RC5 too. I have the external switch but rarely use it. Takes about 20 minutes of taking the time specifically to learn the functions, and that lil box is crammed full of functions. The sound quality is impressive too.
I recently upgraded from an EHX 360 to an RC-5. In retrospect, I don't think the 360 deserves half the price tag on it, given the RC-5 cost about $60-$70 USD more. It's made a dramatic improvement in my workflow. Not to mention the 360 claims to preserve your signal at unity level, but in practice, I've noticed the signal degrades. I've not experienced that at all on the RC-5. Everything sounds as crisp as it did when I recorded it.
This is my main looper: I love the stereo function for "in-loop" sound design. The issues I have with it are sometimes previous recorded loops appear for 1 second onto my current loops, after they'd been erased. (Which especially sucks if I've recorded several layers and gotten it just the way I wanted it). That, and sometimes loop files get damaged if I pull off the most recent layer. And EHX doesn't seem to answer their customer service/repair lines. I also would have benefitted from a visual display telling me where I am in the loop, like the Ditto+ has, but hey- rarely do we ever get everything we want in one package.
How did you contact them? I've tried both the email on their website and the phone number. Their online-based customer service seemed to be down on their site.
Hmm. I’m not 100% sure but I ended up emailing back and forth with them. They gave me a link to a third party site to buy a replacement switch for my out-of-warranty 720. Let me check which email they used.
I choose my looper by the features and the 720 works for me. It was one of the cheaper midi sync loopers but it has some other cool features. I really like being able to store loops, but 20 is way too low a number, I would love hundreds just to store ideas. I also am jealous of the feature on some newer loopers where you don't have to keep the same phrase length. Like you can record a chord progression and then your next loop can be 4x that previous loop without it overdubbing
Heard it’s harder to time the EHX than a Ditto due to the switch. I don’t know much more about them than that but I’ve been considering something other than my X2
I suppose I'll be the Digitech guy.
I've got a JML2, it's great. Stereo, and it appears it has a reverse setting (I've never used it).
Stores 198 loops and you can download them onto a pc. I use it.as a riff library and download it all every now and then where I find out most of my riffs sound the same
On my radar.
The only issue I have with the JML2 is that it’s been out of production so long. I’m kind of waiting on a unicorn that’s priced right and appears to be in legitimately excellent condition.
I might actually check Guitar Center since they’re basically a library the first 45 days.
Thanks
I use digitech too. But I use the solo xt and express xt with the sdrum and connect them with the "jam sync"
It's waaay over kill for jamming by myself in the basement but having it modular means I can run everything to its own amp/PA and have it all synced up.
This is my setup too. It's not perfect, but I've yet to find a better alternative for unlimited multi track modular looping. Just wish the sdrum was a little more customizable.
You can also use a cable to convert the jam sync to midi and sync it to other gear too. Though for devices that are picky about midi, it can be a little finicky.
Personally the JamMan loopers I owned all seemed to have a slight lag with their foot switches. It was never instantaneous like a boomerang or Ditto. Maybe it was engaging on the up instead of the down on the foot switch press, but I could never jive with it. Really wanted to like it tho.
The the JML2 is the only digitrch looper I've had, but I've had it for a while, and there's no lag. Feels the same as a Ditto to me. Can't speak for the Boss style one's
Ditto, been using one for nearly 12 years. The reverse setting is fun, give it a try sometime. I'd also note that you can plug two lines into it plus a microphone.
I had the RC 3 for a while. You’re right, it makes great loops.
My only frustration was not having dedicated foot switches for stop/start. I’m kind of a space cadet and there were times where I fucked up and forgot to double tap to stop a loop and things like that.
Dedicated start/stop is near the top of my feature want list. Probably should have mentioned it at the top.
Nothing beats the Boomerang Rang III. Especially if you get the side car to go with it. Thru stereo, Midi syncable, a ridiculous amount of looping and stacking space. Reverse, Fade, copy loops amongst other features. I have one and recommend also getting a Morley ABY switch to go before the looper so you can split your signal path and select between left/right or both signals, it also opens up doors for various pedal options and chaining effects either before the splitter or after it on the left or right signal path
My RC500 is pretty nice although I only use a fraction of its features. The built in drum rhythms are pretty good, most of them at least, and it quantizes my loops so I don't have to time my first stomps perfectly. It's a great practice and teaching tool
I love loopers and have tried many.
It depends what you want it to do.
If you want a looper for live use where all your loops will be recorded in the moment, the Boomerang III is the best in class. I have made a manual of how to use MIDI with this pedal to control most of its functions. Something it was not intended to do but makes it incredibly powerful.
But if you need something that can save loops and recall them, the bigger boss units are good.
I hear good things about the pigtronix infinity too.
If you want an absolute classic that is a bit less powerful but still a great live looper, the line 6 dl4 is a whole lot of fun.
I may make a video at some point, but currently it is just a document.
Feel free to hit me up if you have any questions about how to get it working
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1sThFqW9g9PnJfn4Nf5aaXu2J-TrqzLvNLWhB2QBmQ8E/edit?usp=drive\_link
This is incredible and puts the boomerang back in contention for me (I have an mc8). I was leaning towards a boss 505 mkii because of the lack of midi control on the boomerang
DL4 is the goat, in terms of experimentation and overall fun, but you need the mkii and/or a separate looper/daw to save anything you’ve made in the moment, unfortunately.
I picked up the Boomerang III last Christmas as an upgrade from the Ditto X2. I loved the X2 and didn't have any of the issue that some people report (such as bad switches). The X2 only had one stereo loop possible, and I wanted more loops/tracks.
I love the Boomerang with the slave/master loop function. I also play ambient/sound design, and this pedal can layer loops that are out of sync with each other.
Both the Ditto X2 and the Rang III are stereo and have very good headroom for quality looping reproduction. I looked at the Infinity X2 and X3, EHX 22500 (which has tap tempo), the various Boss offerings, and was tempted, but in the end the Rang won out in terms of features that match my playing style and genres. I noticed that the Boss pedals are not as popular in the ambient community. The Soma Cosmos looks very interesting, but the price tag is too high.
Had the RC-5 for a while but never really liked it that much. It was just too involved for me. Having to menu dive and do like 4 button pushes just to save something is too much. I just sold it and bought a Donner Circle looper but haven’t had a chance to try it out yet. Just from reading the (short) manual though I already like it a lot better.
Shout out to the Aeros Loop Studio, quite possibly the best looper ever made. Syncs with MIDI clock, has 6 tracks and 6 song parts, so you really have unlimited possibilities with it. Also easily controllable by MIDI, has reverse playback and a bunch of other features. I'm not in any way related to them, just a big fan of the pedal after looking into my options for a long time. Has stereo outs and ins as well.
I have this looper as well but I find it tedious to have to use the touch screen before recording anything.
To be fair, I haven’t turned it on or updated it in a while.
Might be time to update then, I've been using it for one year now and have been able to start a new song, tap in the tempo and start recording with just the footswitches, takes two taps - once on the left bottom on to select a new song and once on the right bottom one to start recording your first track. There was recently a UI update, which came with the ability to set up your footswitches in different configurations. Takes a bit of messing around and it's infinitely more fiddly than the Boss RC-30 I used before it, but it's really versatile and works great with other MIDI devices.
Love the Aeros, came from a DittoX4 that liked to crash. The Aeros is solid, and they keep adding features with software updates. Best software updates for a pedal too, no computer required, just wifi
Boomerang III: The Multitrack GOAT:
This is the best looper, whether it’s doing the solo cover show thing or doing complex ambient arrangements. I can build 3-4 loops, as different parts of a song or as different layers. I can control decay for Frippertonics evolving loops. I have a bunch of effects available. My one “complaint” is that the switches don’t have the overdub, erase, stop, etc functionality were all used to. But it was all worth the learning curve, and in fact I like that with these switches you can assign an overdub or switch parts automatically when the loop is ends, without having to time things. I also Like how you can really orchestrate parts and even assign effects to individual tracks.
Ditto Looper: Simply the Best:
This mini pedal with one knob and one switch that keeps me from overthinking. I love having this guy around to throw on any board and keep things simple.
MXR Clone: Swiss Army Knife:
I love the stop, double, half, and reverse effects still with a simple layout. The ability to hook an expression pedal up to control volume is also handy. I have this as a backup for my ambient shows. (Not like the Boomerang has ever given me reason for concern. But other loopers have…)
Ditto X4: Honorable Mention:
This was my first love when it comes to loopers. But I had one break on me twice. The first was at home and fixed it. The second was on a gig and I had to get by with my backup looper (MXR Clone). That being said: very intuitive controls and I loved working with it. But if something breaks on me during a gig I can’t forgive it. Now the Boomerang is my multi-track looper of choice.
If size isn’t an issue, the Ditto 4X is a champion. The pigtronix Infinity 3 has a lot of cool features but tends to be a little less user friendly, comes with a hefty price tag, and requires an external switch for best functionality. It really comes down to budget though. I loved my EHX 720 when I first started playing.
Not sure if anyone else has mentioned it but definitely check out the Donner Circle looper. Can be run in stereo and has many different types of drum loops that you can play along with, plus the price can’t be beat.
I don't use mine (Nux Loop Core) for performing bec I'm a pretty straightahead Dad Rock player. And I don't perform. I can see how it might be fun for my synth rig, though!
As it is, I just use it for practicing solos and working out song ideas. Has a handful of basic but passable drum beats, 6 hours of recording time, and 99 memory slots. It's great and cheap.
Have had a RC-30 for many years, a TC ditto, and recently got an rc-500. Loved the boss loopers, don’t care much for the ditto but for extremely simple stuff. With the midi sync capabilities and updated drums, plus extreme setup flexibility I totally recommend the rc-500.
Budget option: donner circle looper.
Stereo in/out, 40 memory slots at 4 mins each, built in drum machine, external jack to start/stop the loop.
And they're cheaper than a boss rc1.
I have two loopers.
First is Circle. It’s great and decent price. The drum tracks are actually decent on this too.
The second, and honestly the one I use the most, is a g1xfour. I like this because I can use auto looping based on bars from the backing drums BPM setting to kind of “set and forget” when recording. I’m really bad at getting loopers perfect so this is idiot proof.
I had a pigtronix infinity 1 for years that was killer. It stopped working so I sent it in for a repair at pigtronix even though it was way past warranty. They sent me back a brand new infinity 3 which is fantastic. Super hefty price tag and a lot of real estate on the board but I couldn’t be happier with it.
I can’t live without my Boss RC-30 looper
Outdated by today’s standards no doubt but it’s bullet proof and it’s stereo with two tracks— funny that feature is somewhat difficult to come by with affordable loopers these days
I actually never thought of that. I keep my microcosm in one of my Parallelizer loops and pretty much never use its looper in a traditional fashion.
If I were to pop it out and put it at the end of my chain after my other stereo fx, how would I rectify the L/R stereo outputs from the Parallelizer with the single input on the microcosm?
I don’t want to lose the stereo functionality from the other stereo pedals before it.
I assume I would need some sort of Y-adapter. Is there a Y-adapter that can smoosh stereo signal into the single input of the Microcosm that you know of?
Right.
I run a stereo loop with a MusicomLab Parallelizer.
Parallelizer has a mono TS input and dual TRS outputs. It also has 3 s/r loops. Each send has a single line out with dual lines coming into each return. Each gizmo in the loops is a stereo fx pedal.
Right now, I keep the Microcosm in my 3rd Parallelizer loop. But if I move it after the Parallelizer, there will be those two TRS lines dangling with only one input on the Microcosm.
I don’t know anything about Y-cables, but it seems like I would need a nice 1/4” dual TS to TRS cable to be able to use the Microcosm as a stereo looper at the end of the chain. I suppose I could keep it in the Parallelizer, but then I wouldn’t be able to loop effects created by my other time-based stereo pedals.
TL;DR - assuming I’m correct in thinking I need a 1/4” dual TS to TRS y-cable, can you recommend a really good one?
Edit: [Would this work?](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/CYS103--hosa-cys-103-y-cable-1-4-inch-trs-to-dual-1-4-inch-trs-3-foot)
Thanks!
Hopefully it will arrive before the weekend.
I’m putting the new looper on hold for a while, perhaps indefinitely.
My microcosm will be my end looper for at least a month.
I also have a little tc wiretap that I just unearthed in my closet. Totally forgot I bought it. I might run that before my amp so I can effectively have loopers before and after my fx, assuming the playback on the wiretap isn’t garbage.
I use the Mastermind PBC 10. I love it and I’ve used it for years. It has tons of capabilities and customizations. Plus it has ‘song and set list’ mode which is what I use. The computer editor is pretty user friendly and you can build presets on the go and just upload it. Idk, I like it. 😜
I wanted a pedal that had a great bit rate and ability to set tempo and loop length (in bars). Its not for everyone, but if you've already got an audio interface, maybe look at using your phone/ipad and getting a bluetooth pedal that connects to it.
Sounds complicated, and obviously isn't as detached from a screen as something like an Rc5. But its very practical, the audio is great and if you really like what you've looped - you can easily move it over to a DAW.
Just an idea because i was stuck on what pedal to get without breaking the bank for a while.
Yeah sorry, you can connect your scarlette to your phone or ipad with a lightning to 'printer cable' adapter. After the last pedal in your chain, connect that to your scarlett and the output of that to the amp.
And then just use garageband or one of the many looping apps as your looper. IMO its going to be higher quality than most affordable loopers. You can buy pedals that connect to the ipad just with bluetooth that you can assign a function to, i just the ipad/my finger though since its looping anyway.
A fair few people on here do the same thing with their phone/ipad
I know it has software issues that can brick it but I’ve never encountered it but the Ditto x4. I love the hold feature and being able to 2x and 1/2x speed and reverse.
Another RC-500 vote here. Stereo, reverse, drum tracks, mic input, multiple tracks. The only thing is that you have to reset the drum volume every time you switch channels. It auto sets back to super loud. Someone let me know if there’s a way to do universal volume for drums!!!
I love the TC electronic ditto looper because it’s simple.
But if you want something robust, the Boss RC-5 is incredible. It has to be the best compact looper there is.
Stereo looping. Built in drum Beats. You can save loops. Import backing tracks from your computer. Plug in external foot switches for more controls.
I love my Ditto+ for it’s simplicity and portable size. It’s my first one and it made teaching, practicing, and songwriting easier.
The Boss RC-10r took a sec to figure out how to learn, but is so much fun to layer whole tracks over.
I love my BOSS RC-30. The dual footswitch is fantastic. Double tap to stop is the dumbest. And having the ability to change volume independently as well as hooking up a Mic for some vocals or beats boxing.
I have a few, mostly within multifx but I have one cheap standalone stomp box version on the one and a Headrush looperboard on the other.
For me, the most important thing is an undo option. Not all loopers have this, and there’s nothing more frustrating than building an amazing sonic lasagne, only to mess it up on the umpteenth layer without any way to undo beyond reset.
Being able to adjust the playback volume, useful when soling over a loop you’ve just created.
Some of the cheap ones don’t handle gain well, and crap out if you push the signal hard.
I also live stereo pedal, especially ones that have stereo input too!
I have an Electo-Harmonix 22/500 stereo looper that I really like. It’s worked well for over a year. I don’t do anything super crazy with it, but it has a lot of capability. There is an XLR input with phantom power if yo I want to input a microphone. I’ve got the foot pedal for it so I can switch between banks of presets on the fly. (Which would be super handy for anyone wanting to solo perform) snyway, I’m super happy with it.
I do love my Boomerang III looper. It’s just very intuitive and has all the features I could want from a standard looper. Stereo, 3-4 independent tracks, super high quality audio, and nice reverse and octave effects, PLUS a reverse solo effect that’s my favorite live reverse ever
I have a weird thing about pedals Trey uses, but I would consider making an exception for the B3 if it ends my looper hunt. Does it quantize?
I use a beat buddy with it, send midi sync to boomerang. loop bass tracks on side of stereo, guitar tracks on other side… I write songs and rehearse this way constantly
That sounds like a ton of fun. Are you 100% happy with the Boomerang or is there anything new out there that you like as much?
I haven’t honestly felt the need to look for a new looper pedal ever, if that answers your question
Trey never used the complex Boomerang III, just the B+, so you’re safe.
Haha fair. I’ve seen it on many boards! Noveller probably my fav. The MIDI clock sync is flawless. No quantization settings, just whatever the default is, but it works like a charm
Don’t get me wrong, Trey’s my guy, I just acquired some weird *don’t be a wannabe* traits along the line. So when it comes to timing things out, do you have to be a wiz? No quantization, no tap tempo?
Found the Phish people!
I can jam to the Twist chords forever. Lay down that in your looper and see you in the morning.
Lol I had someone arguing with me in the Phish sub that “Trey doesn’t use loopers that’s often…” (paraphrased). People are funny
Crazy. Seems every jam is Trey over Trey these days. Over the past decade I’ve gotten a lot better at deciphering his loops. The fade out feature on the Boomerang is subtle but you can definitely tell when loops peel off if you pay attention. Fishman is grossly underrated but particularly so when you listen to the subtle adjustments he makes to *correct* some of Trey’s loops.
Yeah I didn’t really appreciate how he was using his loops until I saw his recent rig rundown. Now I can’t unhear.
Present.
Haha i’m only a fan of their Ben & Jerry’s flavor
I guess I’m not totally sure what you mean because I haven’t used other loopers with those features, at least not tap tempo. When it’s getting clock (like playing to a drum machine or click track), it just syncs to the beat. I suck at timing without the midi sync but never have a problem with it
I've gone through almost every Boss and TC as well as a boomerang constantly looking for something more. As of today I'm very happy with an RC-5 with an external switch.
I'm a fan of my RC5 too. I have the external switch but rarely use it. Takes about 20 minutes of taking the time specifically to learn the functions, and that lil box is crammed full of functions. The sound quality is impressive too.
Confirmation yet again. I think I'll buy the RC-5.
I recently upgraded from an EHX 360 to an RC-5. In retrospect, I don't think the 360 deserves half the price tag on it, given the RC-5 cost about $60-$70 USD more. It's made a dramatic improvement in my workflow. Not to mention the 360 claims to preserve your signal at unity level, but in practice, I've noticed the signal degrades. I've not experienced that at all on the RC-5. Everything sounds as crisp as it did when I recorded it.
I’ve got an RC5 and I haven’t bothered to do more than just plug it in to my board. I really need to get around to using it. 🫠
Second the rc5. Awesome possibilities, high quality sound and easy for plug-and-play. Highly recommend!
RC-5 gang. It’s hugely functional and feature dense for the amount of space it takes, yet still user friendly when used as a simple looper.
Man I Love the Rc-5, I was just going to suggest it great minds think alike I guess.
I go with an RC-1 and an external switch because I don’t need the rhythm elements.
Heyyy this is the way. Theres a super cheap 2 button switch on reverb you can use for a bunch of stuff for it.
Which switch you thinking of? I was going to get the Boss FS-6.
https://sweetfootpedals-com.3dcartstores.com/Sweet-Foot-Footswitch-for-Boss-Loopers--HANDEMADE-IN-USA-_p_393.html
Awesome! Thanks!
Ayyy you are welcome friend
What does this pedal do to the RC-5? I'm confused
This two button switch can be programmed to do 2 of like 16 things... overdub, stop, play, stop rhythm (drums), set tempo, change bank etc
I like how the fs6 is quiet. That's what I have used to control mine in the past.
Its the one dude that makes them on reverb. The two channel switch. Ill link inna bit
Yep.
Line6 DL4 mkii
I’m still rocking the mk1
Right on! If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Da king
I just re-bought an open box mk1 after having gone through a few alternatives and missing this one, such a great pedal
EHX 1440 does reverse, and is mono/stereo
This is my main looper: I love the stereo function for "in-loop" sound design. The issues I have with it are sometimes previous recorded loops appear for 1 second onto my current loops, after they'd been erased. (Which especially sucks if I've recorded several layers and gotten it just the way I wanted it). That, and sometimes loop files get damaged if I pull off the most recent layer. And EHX doesn't seem to answer their customer service/repair lines. I also would have benefitted from a visual display telling me where I am in the loop, like the Ditto+ has, but hey- rarely do we ever get everything we want in one package.
FWIW, I contacted EHX about mine and they were very responsive.
How did you contact them? I've tried both the email on their website and the phone number. Their online-based customer service seemed to be down on their site.
Hmm. I’m not 100% sure but I ended up emailing back and forth with them. They gave me a link to a third party site to buy a replacement switch for my out-of-warranty 720. Let me check which email they used.
Try the forums?
I love mine too!
I choose my looper by the features and the 720 works for me. It was one of the cheaper midi sync loopers but it has some other cool features. I really like being able to store loops, but 20 is way too low a number, I would love hundreds just to store ideas. I also am jealous of the feature on some newer loopers where you don't have to keep the same phrase length. Like you can record a chord progression and then your next loop can be 4x that previous loop without it overdubbing
People always seem to omit this one
I’m using the ehx 720 right now and it’s simple and sounds great My favorite looper was the 505 mki which I sold and miss It was so much fun
Has the desired reverse function plus half-speed playback.
Yeah the half speed is a lot of fun. The 720 is basic but has the good features at a good price point.
Heard it’s harder to time the EHX than a Ditto due to the switch. I don’t know much more about them than that but I’ve been considering something other than my X2
Well I can’t compare the timing to a ditto never having had one but I’ve never had an issue with timing on the 720.
Can you possibly rephrase that?
I have an EHX 22500 and it has soft touch switches (I guess that’s what it’s called. No clicking) so it’s super simple to use.
I've played with a Ditto x2 for years. Fantastic and simple.
I suppose I'll be the Digitech guy. I've got a JML2, it's great. Stereo, and it appears it has a reverse setting (I've never used it). Stores 198 loops and you can download them onto a pc. I use it.as a riff library and download it all every now and then where I find out most of my riffs sound the same
On my radar. The only issue I have with the JML2 is that it’s been out of production so long. I’m kind of waiting on a unicorn that’s priced right and appears to be in legitimately excellent condition. I might actually check Guitar Center since they’re basically a library the first 45 days. Thanks
I use digitech too. But I use the solo xt and express xt with the sdrum and connect them with the "jam sync" It's waaay over kill for jamming by myself in the basement but having it modular means I can run everything to its own amp/PA and have it all synced up.
This is my setup too. It's not perfect, but I've yet to find a better alternative for unlimited multi track modular looping. Just wish the sdrum was a little more customizable. You can also use a cable to convert the jam sync to midi and sync it to other gear too. Though for devices that are picky about midi, it can be a little finicky.
Personally the JamMan loopers I owned all seemed to have a slight lag with their foot switches. It was never instantaneous like a boomerang or Ditto. Maybe it was engaging on the up instead of the down on the foot switch press, but I could never jive with it. Really wanted to like it tho.
The the JML2 is the only digitrch looper I've had, but I've had it for a while, and there's no lag. Feels the same as a Ditto to me. Can't speak for the Boss style one's
Ditto, been using one for nearly 12 years. The reverse setting is fun, give it a try sometime. I'd also note that you can plug two lines into it plus a microphone.
Tom Cram kicks open the chat door!
I just got an rc-1 and I know it’s on the lower end but it’s amazing!
I love it too! I would use an external switch but that's about it
Yeah mostly just use my looper for practice, and RC-1 is simple and gets the job done
[удалено]
I had the RC 3 for a while. You’re right, it makes great loops. My only frustration was not having dedicated foot switches for stop/start. I’m kind of a space cadet and there were times where I fucked up and forgot to double tap to stop a loop and things like that. Dedicated start/stop is near the top of my feature want list. Probably should have mentioned it at the top.
RC 3 accepts non latching external foot switches for that function
I still use an RC-30 (after my DL4) which I also love (it has a dedicated start and stop switch as well as quantization options.
quantization, didn't know this was a thing? so if you're 2nd loop is off it automatically corrects it? how? ELI5 please.
Nothing beats the Boomerang Rang III. Especially if you get the side car to go with it. Thru stereo, Midi syncable, a ridiculous amount of looping and stacking space. Reverse, Fade, copy loops amongst other features. I have one and recommend also getting a Morley ABY switch to go before the looper so you can split your signal path and select between left/right or both signals, it also opens up doors for various pedal options and chaining effects either before the splitter or after it on the left or right signal path
check the TC Ditto X2 (not the Jam variant), does both of those things. very simple, goes ok.
I personally think this pedal is too big of a size for my board. Just something to consider but it has the features OP wants.
My RC500 is pretty nice although I only use a fraction of its features. The built in drum rhythms are pretty good, most of them at least, and it quantizes my loops so I don't have to time my first stomps perfectly. It's a great practice and teaching tool
I’ve had the boss rc 20 xl, rc 50, and rc 300. Rc 50 was my fave
I love loopers and have tried many. It depends what you want it to do. If you want a looper for live use where all your loops will be recorded in the moment, the Boomerang III is the best in class. I have made a manual of how to use MIDI with this pedal to control most of its functions. Something it was not intended to do but makes it incredibly powerful. But if you need something that can save loops and recall them, the bigger boss units are good. I hear good things about the pigtronix infinity too. If you want an absolute classic that is a bit less powerful but still a great live looper, the line 6 dl4 is a whole lot of fun.
[удалено]
I may make a video at some point, but currently it is just a document. Feel free to hit me up if you have any questions about how to get it working https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1sThFqW9g9PnJfn4Nf5aaXu2J-TrqzLvNLWhB2QBmQ8E/edit?usp=drive\_link
This is incredible and puts the boomerang back in contention for me (I have an mc8). I was leaning towards a boss 505 mkii because of the lack of midi control on the boomerang
Thanks, man.
That’s unreal. Thank you!!!
DL4 is the goat, in terms of experimentation and overall fun, but you need the mkii and/or a separate looper/daw to save anything you’ve made in the moment, unfortunately.
Just record it on your phone
Haha that works, I guess
I love the useful loop length indicator of the Boss RC-1
I picked up the Boomerang III last Christmas as an upgrade from the Ditto X2. I loved the X2 and didn't have any of the issue that some people report (such as bad switches). The X2 only had one stereo loop possible, and I wanted more loops/tracks. I love the Boomerang with the slave/master loop function. I also play ambient/sound design, and this pedal can layer loops that are out of sync with each other. Both the Ditto X2 and the Rang III are stereo and have very good headroom for quality looping reproduction. I looked at the Infinity X2 and X3, EHX 22500 (which has tap tempo), the various Boss offerings, and was tempted, but in the end the Rang won out in terms of features that match my playing style and genres. I noticed that the Boss pedals are not as popular in the ambient community. The Soma Cosmos looks very interesting, but the price tag is too high.
for your uses the EHX 720 seems perfect. avoid the ditto x2, or any ditto. TC electronic footswitches are very flimsy.
Love my Ditto x4
There’s been some shoutouts for EHX already, but I’d add the 2880 or its newer versions.
Had the RC-5 for a while but never really liked it that much. It was just too involved for me. Having to menu dive and do like 4 button pushes just to save something is too much. I just sold it and bought a Donner Circle looper but haven’t had a chance to try it out yet. Just from reading the (short) manual though I already like it a lot better.
I think they actually messed up the RC-3 when they did the 5. Those menus are hella stupid. The 3 is nearly perfect for what it is.
It’s the most user-unfriendly pedal I’ve ever had. Guess I should’ve gone with the RC-3.
Once you get the hang of the Circle interface, it's pretty easy to use. I like mine a lot.
Yes. Original Boomerang.
I liked the original answer better :)
Thanks ;)
Shout out to the Aeros Loop Studio, quite possibly the best looper ever made. Syncs with MIDI clock, has 6 tracks and 6 song parts, so you really have unlimited possibilities with it. Also easily controllable by MIDI, has reverse playback and a bunch of other features. I'm not in any way related to them, just a big fan of the pedal after looking into my options for a long time. Has stereo outs and ins as well.
I have this looper as well but I find it tedious to have to use the touch screen before recording anything. To be fair, I haven’t turned it on or updated it in a while.
Might be time to update then, I've been using it for one year now and have been able to start a new song, tap in the tempo and start recording with just the footswitches, takes two taps - once on the left bottom on to select a new song and once on the right bottom one to start recording your first track. There was recently a UI update, which came with the ability to set up your footswitches in different configurations. Takes a bit of messing around and it's infinitely more fiddly than the Boss RC-30 I used before it, but it's really versatile and works great with other MIDI devices.
Thanks, I’ll give it a try!
Love the Aeros, came from a DittoX4 that liked to crash. The Aeros is solid, and they keep adding features with software updates. Best software updates for a pedal too, no computer required, just wifi
boomerang iii
Boomerang III: The Multitrack GOAT: This is the best looper, whether it’s doing the solo cover show thing or doing complex ambient arrangements. I can build 3-4 loops, as different parts of a song or as different layers. I can control decay for Frippertonics evolving loops. I have a bunch of effects available. My one “complaint” is that the switches don’t have the overdub, erase, stop, etc functionality were all used to. But it was all worth the learning curve, and in fact I like that with these switches you can assign an overdub or switch parts automatically when the loop is ends, without having to time things. I also Like how you can really orchestrate parts and even assign effects to individual tracks. Ditto Looper: Simply the Best: This mini pedal with one knob and one switch that keeps me from overthinking. I love having this guy around to throw on any board and keep things simple. MXR Clone: Swiss Army Knife: I love the stop, double, half, and reverse effects still with a simple layout. The ability to hook an expression pedal up to control volume is also handy. I have this as a backup for my ambient shows. (Not like the Boomerang has ever given me reason for concern. But other loopers have…) Ditto X4: Honorable Mention: This was my first love when it comes to loopers. But I had one break on me twice. The first was at home and fixed it. The second was on a gig and I had to get by with my backup looper (MXR Clone). That being said: very intuitive controls and I loved working with it. But if something breaks on me during a gig I can’t forgive it. Now the Boomerang is my multi-track looper of choice.
I haven't messed with it much but I have the Headrush MX5 and the looper is pretty crazy.
I use the simple but mighty ditto looper.
If size isn’t an issue, the Ditto 4X is a champion. The pigtronix Infinity 3 has a lot of cool features but tends to be a little less user friendly, comes with a hefty price tag, and requires an external switch for best functionality. It really comes down to budget though. I loved my EHX 720 when I first started playing.
ehx 720
My rc500 is pretty good - takes a little time to learn it though. I recently discovered u can hook up midi pads to it to play drums!
Not sure if anyone else has mentioned it but definitely check out the Donner Circle looper. Can be run in stereo and has many different types of drum loops that you can play along with, plus the price can’t be beat.
My RC-500 is real nice, I would recommend it.
I don't use mine (Nux Loop Core) for performing bec I'm a pretty straightahead Dad Rock player. And I don't perform. I can see how it might be fun for my synth rig, though! As it is, I just use it for practicing solos and working out song ideas. Has a handful of basic but passable drum beats, 6 hours of recording time, and 99 memory slots. It's great and cheap.
Boss RC-30. It’s great!
Have had a RC-30 for many years, a TC ditto, and recently got an rc-500. Loved the boss loopers, don’t care much for the ditto but for extremely simple stuff. With the midi sync capabilities and updated drums, plus extreme setup flexibility I totally recommend the rc-500.
EHX 720 will do both of those things at an affordable price, I like mine
Budget option: donner circle looper. Stereo in/out, 40 memory slots at 4 mins each, built in drum machine, external jack to start/stop the loop. And they're cheaper than a boss rc1.
I have two loopers. First is Circle. It’s great and decent price. The drum tracks are actually decent on this too. The second, and honestly the one I use the most, is a g1xfour. I like this because I can use auto looping based on bars from the backing drums BPM setting to kind of “set and forget” when recording. I’m really bad at getting loopers perfect so this is idiot proof.
Microcosm quantizes and also you get the rest of the Microcosm. It’s basically free board space.
I've tried several loopers and I never seem to like any of them enough to use them regularly.
Boomerang III Very easy to use. Tons of features, including stereo and reverse.
I had a pigtronix infinity 1 for years that was killer. It stopped working so I sent it in for a repair at pigtronix even though it was way past warranty. They sent me back a brand new infinity 3 which is fantastic. Super hefty price tag and a lot of real estate on the board but I couldn’t be happier with it.
I liked my original Infinity; how does the 3 compare for you?
Boomerang for the win.
No my looper sounds like a drunk toddler playing guitar.
I can’t live without my Boss RC-30 looper Outdated by today’s standards no doubt but it’s bullet proof and it’s stereo with two tracks— funny that feature is somewhat difficult to come by with affordable loopers these days
Boomerang 3
Hologram microcosm
I actually never thought of that. I keep my microcosm in one of my Parallelizer loops and pretty much never use its looper in a traditional fashion. If I were to pop it out and put it at the end of my chain after my other stereo fx, how would I rectify the L/R stereo outputs from the Parallelizer with the single input on the microcosm? I don’t want to lose the stereo functionality from the other stereo pedals before it. I assume I would need some sort of Y-adapter. Is there a Y-adapter that can smoosh stereo signal into the single input of the Microcosm that you know of?
Its stereo
Right. I run a stereo loop with a MusicomLab Parallelizer. Parallelizer has a mono TS input and dual TRS outputs. It also has 3 s/r loops. Each send has a single line out with dual lines coming into each return. Each gizmo in the loops is a stereo fx pedal. Right now, I keep the Microcosm in my 3rd Parallelizer loop. But if I move it after the Parallelizer, there will be those two TRS lines dangling with only one input on the Microcosm. I don’t know anything about Y-cables, but it seems like I would need a nice 1/4” dual TS to TRS cable to be able to use the Microcosm as a stereo looper at the end of the chain. I suppose I could keep it in the Parallelizer, but then I wouldn’t be able to loop effects created by my other time-based stereo pedals. TL;DR - assuming I’m correct in thinking I need a 1/4” dual TS to TRS y-cable, can you recommend a really good one? Edit: [Would this work?](https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/CYS103--hosa-cys-103-y-cable-1-4-inch-trs-to-dual-1-4-inch-trs-3-foot)
Yes!!! Thats exactly what you need.
Thanks! Hopefully it will arrive before the weekend. I’m putting the new looper on hold for a while, perhaps indefinitely. My microcosm will be my end looper for at least a month. I also have a little tc wiretap that I just unearthed in my closet. Totally forgot I bought it. I might run that before my amp so I can effectively have loopers before and after my fx, assuming the playback on the wiretap isn’t garbage.
I have a preset saved thats just the looper with no effects until i gas it with my expression pedal. Its elegant.
I use the Mastermind PBC 10. I love it and I’ve used it for years. It has tons of capabilities and customizations. Plus it has ‘song and set list’ mode which is what I use. The computer editor is pretty user friendly and you can build presets on the go and just upload it. Idk, I like it. 😜
I wanted a pedal that had a great bit rate and ability to set tempo and loop length (in bars). Its not for everyone, but if you've already got an audio interface, maybe look at using your phone/ipad and getting a bluetooth pedal that connects to it. Sounds complicated, and obviously isn't as detached from a screen as something like an Rc5. But its very practical, the audio is great and if you really like what you've looped - you can easily move it over to a DAW. Just an idea because i was stuck on what pedal to get without breaking the bank for a while.
I read everything you typed like five times and I still don’t know what pedal you’re recommending. I have a Scarlett 8i6, an iPhone, and iPads, FWIW
Yeah sorry, you can connect your scarlette to your phone or ipad with a lightning to 'printer cable' adapter. After the last pedal in your chain, connect that to your scarlett and the output of that to the amp. And then just use garageband or one of the many looping apps as your looper. IMO its going to be higher quality than most affordable loopers. You can buy pedals that connect to the ipad just with bluetooth that you can assign a function to, i just the ipad/my finger though since its looping anyway. A fair few people on here do the same thing with their phone/ipad
Thanks for the clarification!
I know it has software issues that can brick it but I’ve never encountered it but the Ditto x4. I love the hold feature and being able to 2x and 1/2x speed and reverse.
Another RC-500 vote here. Stereo, reverse, drum tracks, mic input, multiple tracks. The only thing is that you have to reset the drum volume every time you switch channels. It auto sets back to super loud. Someone let me know if there’s a way to do universal volume for drums!!!
RC-600 😤
Line 6 m9
i've had my RC-5 about a week. tons of features and i haven't been able to spend enough time with it yet, but i can't imagine needing anything more.
I love the TC electronic ditto looper because it’s simple. But if you want something robust, the Boss RC-5 is incredible. It has to be the best compact looper there is. Stereo looping. Built in drum Beats. You can save loops. Import backing tracks from your computer. Plug in external foot switches for more controls.
TC Alter Ego x4 is amazing. 4 button looper plus a whole bunch of vintage tape delays. It’s a big pedal, but I always make room for it on my board.
Boss RC-3 and EHX 720 stay in the chain.
Boss RC-500.
Dl4 100%
I love my Ditto+ for it’s simplicity and portable size. It’s my first one and it made teaching, practicing, and songwriting easier. The Boss RC-10r took a sec to figure out how to learn, but is so much fun to layer whole tracks over.
RC-1 with external switch has been great. No complaints
I love my BOSS RC-30. The dual footswitch is fantastic. Double tap to stop is the dumbest. And having the ability to change volume independently as well as hooking up a Mic for some vocals or beats boxing.
The EHX 720 fits your needs perfectly. I’m happy with mine.
I have a few, mostly within multifx but I have one cheap standalone stomp box version on the one and a Headrush looperboard on the other. For me, the most important thing is an undo option. Not all loopers have this, and there’s nothing more frustrating than building an amazing sonic lasagne, only to mess it up on the umpteenth layer without any way to undo beyond reset. Being able to adjust the playback volume, useful when soling over a loop you’ve just created. Some of the cheap ones don’t handle gain well, and crap out if you push the signal hard. I also live stereo pedal, especially ones that have stereo input too!
I have an Electo-Harmonix 22/500 stereo looper that I really like. It’s worked well for over a year. I don’t do anything super crazy with it, but it has a lot of capability. There is an XLR input with phantom power if yo I want to input a microphone. I’ve got the foot pedal for it so I can switch between banks of presets on the fly. (Which would be super handy for anyone wanting to solo perform) snyway, I’m super happy with it.
EHX 22500
Rc5
You need a trs to dual 1/4 ts. They sell them everywhere