Live backup rig

marknjules1

marknjules1

Member
This is the first time I have ever been digital. I used to carry a 100w tube head & a 2nd as a backup. Just realized that if this thing goes down I am in trouble. The whole point of digital is to save my back, so no more head & cabs for this guy. What are you gigging musicians using as backup to your Ax8? I was thinking some outdated used line6 or something just to get me through a gig if needed.
Any advice is appreciated.
Thanks,
Mark
 
I did use a Line 6 HD500 before I got the AX8. I will use the HD500 for a back up at the moment until I buy another AX8
 
Roland GR-55 or Axe-FX II XL. It depends on whether on I am using my virtual guitar set up or not. One can use the amp models and FX in the Roland in a pinch, but they are not as good.
 
I probably should have mentioned that it's a backup on a budget. I'm leaning towards a Tech 21 RK9 or maybe a Boss Katana. Can't justify spending too much $$ on something I, hopefully, will never need. Still haven't sold my Bogner XTC. Btw $2000 shipped. :)
 
I have a Vox Stomplab IIG in my gig bag at all times, which I got used for $40. I bought it on a whim because it was so cheap but it actually sounds quite good. I programmed some basic gig ready patches and then, lo and behold, I had a flight where airlines lost my bags, including AX8 in flight case, so I had to use the Stomplab for a gig with a symphony orchestra. I got nothing but compliments from front of house and the band all said I sounded like me and they would've never known I was using a different processor. Clearly the Stomplab isn't going to dethrone the AX8 anytime soon but for $80 new it's hard to beat the Vox.
 
Tech21 ( IMO) has good amp sim pedals. They were what I used last , in my attempt to leave my amps home.
I had an ampifire pedal for backup , that sounded good enough to give my singer to replace his guitar sim unit.
I wanted a simpler solution than a pile of tech21 pedals , so I bought their flyrig.
I wasn't overly impressed with the sound that model provided in it's all-in-one design , so I opted to get the RK flyrig after. It's no AX8 (OBVIOUSLY) lol , but it's compact and will due in a pinch. And , if you play a fender , it will fit in the jumbo pocket inside a fender case.
Smart to have a backup. I've had zero problems with my AX8 , but stuff happens. Bad power at a gig could fry it , spilled drink , slip and drop , etc ,. Hasn't even got to be the fault of the unit itself.
When I gig , I have a backup plan for almost every piece of gear and cord that could fail. It only took one bad experience for me to learn my lesson on being prepared.
 
PhillyGTR said:
So what do you think of the RK flyrig? I've considered both the Plexi and the RK version. From what I've heard I don't like the sound of the gain...kinda fizzy.
Click to expand...

Well , I'm not a high gain kinda guy. I know it's all personal preference , so I hate to say anymore than , I wanted more gain than the original had.
It will depend on what guitar , with what pickups , and what sound you're after.
I use low output pickups ( I should add )
If you're buying one from a catalog type store (MF) , that has excellent return policies , or you live near a GC type store that might have them in store , it's worth plugging your own guitar into to try first , before you commit.
 
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