GFX-8 Guitar Processor
By Daniel Fisher, Director of Soundware Engineering
I have to admit it; each time I think I can no longer be surprised by ZOOM, they go and create another amazing product with features that defy their already shockingly low price tags. This time around it's a really excellent looking and terrific sounding guitar multi-effects processor called the GFX-8. By refining ZOOM's legendary modeling technology with high-grade analog circuitry, V.A.M.S. (Variable Architecture Modeling System) provides an amazing degree of freedom and flexibility at an almost unbelievable list price of $499.99. "Exceptional performance for the price" is no longer an adequate description of their high-density DSP technology. Each and every one of the GFX-8's 69 effects were individually developed to achieve a level of quality that goes way beyond any single effect devices.
In addition to basic ambient, delay and modulation effects, an "Acoustic Effect" lets you produce a convincing acoustic guitar sound from an electric guitar without having to switch instruments in the middle of a live performance. And there's a wide range of other newly-developed special effects like (SFX) Sample & Hold, Gate Reverb, and Synth. All of the effects are capable of responding fully to the demands of guitarists who have refined their individual sound and who want to distinguish their sound from others.
The GFX-8 easily emulates everything from the screaming distortion of a high-powered stack to the warm, fat distortion of a classic vintage amp. More than just a hybrid electronic circuit, V.A.M.S. fuses analog and digital technologies to achieve "cyberdistortion with a human heart." There's even Send and Return
jacks that let you patch in your favorite distortion or tube-based preamp!
A patch memory with 240 slots (80 user / 160 preset) comprise virtually all the sounds produced by guitarists around the world. In addition, a sampling function with a maximum of 25 seconds lets you instantly copy any phrase. The Jam Play function lets you play backing rhythms and chords and solo simultaneously. And the stereo 1/4" input jack lets you connect your CD or cassette player right into the system for practice sessions that are as enjoyable as they are effective.
Whether in edit mode, or when using the Windows or Mac Graphic User Interface (that comes free on the included CD-ROM), you get custom distortion with the freedom of "cut-and-paste" editing that allows you to tap the almost unlimited potential of the system. The GFX-8's unique front panel makes a clean break from conventional effects systems: Ten knobs stand out in bold alignment. Turn any one of them and the sound changes. Each knob clearly says what it does, and does what it says (imagine that!). With the operational feel of an analog effect and preamp, the sound moves as you'd expect it to. And the large, highly-visible display reacts instantly to changes to tell you exactly where you are at any given moment. The GFX-8's numerous controllers are presented in a familiar interface that bears a close resemblance to the control panel of a guitar amplifier. In short, here are effects that are a joy to play through.
The ZOOM GFX-8 is housed in a rugged, solid metal chassis that can easily withstand the full range and force of the guitarist's artistic emotions — even mine. Its classy color scheme underscores a harmonious integration between the studio and stage environments. Hands down, this is a crowning achievement for ZOOM and an excellent opportunity for guitarists looking for the “does everything” pedalboard.
But don’t just take my word for it. Sweetwater has more than its share of guitar fanatics and each of them has had the same positive reaction to this terrific unit. For more information about the GFX-8 and the rest of the ZOOM line of guitar and studio processors, I suggest you call your Sweetwater Sales Engineer today and start defining that special tone that belongs only to you.