Buffers- Worth it?

Guitarist-Jonny · #1 07-02-2009, 04:18 PM

Hi all, turns out after lots of thinking I've finally designed a rig that's pretty much perfect for my needs.

However, I have a question. I am going to be using a 'buffer' in my chain to run a long cable to my amp so as to help prevent a cable length related load on my signal. I have a Boss BD-2 that my uncle gave to me that I'm considering using (it would be in bypass all the time), but I'm wondering if buying a buffer like this:
http://www.lovepedal.com/Guitarminibuffers.htm
would make a big difference/improvement over a Boss BD-2 in bypass mode?

Just one more question, would another pedal (e.g. a Vox wah pedal) work better as a buffer than the BD-2? I'm relatively new to buffers; up until a few days ago I would insist on every pedal I had being true bypass.
Thanks everyone
Regards
Jon

ColinMmmmm · #2 07-02-2009, 04:32 PM

I normally use a potassium phosphate buffer, pH 7.0 - it'll depend on what pH you want. But whatever buffer you use, you shouldn't totally submerge your pedals - it'll definitely ruin the electronics (probably cause some kind of short).

Guitarist-Jonny · #3 07-02-2009, 04:47 PM

Sorry, I don't understand what you mean. How does Potassium Phosphate relate to buffers? Apologies, as I said I'm new to buffers. I've seen the Radial ToneBone PB-1 and that looks pretty good

.
Thanks
Regards
Jon

Algiman · #4 07-02-2009, 04:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ColinMmmmm

I normally use a potassium phosphate buffer, pH 7.0 - it'll depend on what pH you want. But whatever buffer you use, you shouldn't totally submerge your pedals - it'll definitely ruin the electronics (probably cause some kind of short).

LOL. Geek

Guitarist-Jonny · #5 07-02-2009, 04:52 PM

Algiman, you got any buffer experience?
Thanks
Regards
Jon

Algiman · #6 07-02-2009, 04:54 PM

The Boss buffers are actually quite good, but better to use one of these:
http://www.axess-electronics.com/sc/...r-p-16133.html

They are great to split a signal off for a tuner too. I've got one in my rack for when I'm using a wireless and want to run a long cable round the stage for my pedal board. Very transparent unit.

Guitarist-Jonny · #7 07-02-2009, 04:57 PM

Thanks dude

, where could I get myself one of these?
Regards
Jon

Devo · #8 07-02-2009, 05:27 PM

Hows about a MXR micro amp. Quite a nice boost/buffer pedal.

or this as a cheapo fix

http://www.buildyourownclone.com/confidence.html

takes about 20 mins to build.

steve

Guitarist-Jonny · #9 07-02-2009, 05:52 PM

Thanks Devo, how will the MCR and/or the confidence boost compare against the axess? I only need an input and output, I'm not really interested in multiple outputs to be honest

Regards
Jon

Guitarist-Jonny · #10 07-02-2009, 06:02 PM

Just to be sure, the MXR microamp IS a buffer when disengaged right?
Thanks
Regards
Jon

Algiman · #11 07-02-2009, 06:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Guitarist-Jonny

Thanks dude

, where could I get myself one of these?
Regards
Jon

I ordered mine direct.

ColinMmmmm · #12 07-02-2009, 07:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Algiman

LOL. Geek

Glad somebody got the joke . . . I couldn't resist.

Guitarist-Jonny · #13 07-03-2009, 04:52 AM

Just seen the VHT Valvulator, this looks awesome. Anyone got any experience on it? What do you think?
Thanks
Regards
Jon

Algiman · #14 07-03-2009, 08:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ColinMmmmm

Glad somebody got the joke . . . I couldn't resist.

I'm from a family full of scientists.

Guitarist-Jonny · #15 07-03-2009, 03:12 PM

Anyone any opinions on the Valvulator? I'm thinking it may be better than the others as it's tube- am I right?
With active pickups, is it true that I don't need a buffer due to the low impedance output, which is because of the preamp?
Thanks
Regards
Jon