amp simulator as an FX loop?

[maryslittlesecret]

Howdy all! Been a while since I've had the time to record and now that I'm getting back into it, I'm thinking of making some changes...

I'd like to try and use the amp simulation in my POD/GT-6 as an FX loop, recording the raw, unprocessed guitar and looping it back through to the POD/GT-6 so I can adjust or change my tone after tracking. Can I just plug my guitar directly into my soundcard (a WAMI Rack 24) or do I need to run through a DI box or anything else before I reach my soundcard?

Also, as an alternate plan of attack, I'm think of splitting the raw signal from my guitar and going into the POD/GT-6 simultaneously. Doesn't give me the same flexibility, but it does let me two distinct tones on one take. Any suggestions on a splitter or any other gear I may need for this trick?

Please let me know your thoughts. Thanks!

J

 

[ssscientist]

I use both Bass Pod and a Behringer V-Bass Pro for live performance, and I use a Rapco A/B box quite sucessfully. This has 2 switches and lets me select the Pod, V-Bass Pro, both or neither.

As far as recording a dry guitar signal goes, look into some type of reamp device - here's a good resource ---

http://www.amptone.com

 

[maryslittlesecret]

Thanks for the reply, ssscientist. Would the Rapco switch work as a DI for recording as well? And what is 're-amping'? Doesn't an amp simulator like a POD take care of that?

J

 

[ssscientist]

No, my A/B switch just switches my bass signal between devices. You have both a Line 6 Pod and a Boss GT-6 so you could do the same with those. Rapco does make direct boxes but this particular device does not provide that function.

Reamping is taking a guitar signal back off tape (or hard disk) and preparing it to be plugged into the amp of your choice. You then record the result onto a new track and you have a second guitar tone and a second track to use in your mix. And sure, you can try sticking a guitar track thru the Pod but that's not what it's made for --- it's made to be what's referred to as a 'thru processor' like a compressor rather than an EFX/AUX loop processor like reverb or delay.

But don't take my word for it --- try it anyway!