This is what I was searching for - an independent review - instead of a sales pitch that makes the me 90 sound awesome in every situation. Thanks for the honesty.
I got suckered by the former and bought it to replace my ME50 my initial reaction was that it sounded awful.The preamps and distortions were terrible. I've messed around with it a bit more since and hooked it up to my computer so I can replace the preamps with the software editor. I'm looking for a classic clean sound like a fender twin,a crunchy rhythm sound like a marshall and maybe a higher gain jcm 800 lead sound to cover 60s to present covers using mainly a Strat.This is not providing any of these sounds out of the box
looking at the DSP corrections happening on the output through ProQ is just top notch - rarely do we get this kind of detailed analysis of guitar pedals. really well done
Seriously thinking of getting this unit and this video reaffirmed how I’d use it. 1. Preamp on: through headphones or studio monitors 2. Preamp OFF as a multi-effects for my amp.
That’s the exact intended use. BOSS was never expecting anyone to use a preamp into an actual pre-amp of a real guitar amp. And for $350 this thing is absolutely insane. If you wanna spend a little more, just get a Katana Artist Combo amp. I see them all day for $400. Make sure you get the MK2 or MK3. The MK1 has less features and the dials and knobs are totally different. The Katana Artist combo is in the top 3 combo amps in amp history. Period.
Had better luck with the preamp models using LINE instead Gt. Amp into the front of my tube amp, seems counter intuitive to me but they sound much better with the AIRD outputs off
Very nice and thorough unbiased overview! Luckily I have no intention of running it into a real amp- have been able to dial in some very solid sounding patches using the 'boutique' preamp + various effects. Also really like the deluxe reverb preamp (both selectable options that require the tone studio to load). So far I've been running it through a Bose L1 Pro8 PA.
Yes, I just have the ME-90 and the models are not useable very bad. I now use the Tonex pedal with a clean twin amp into the send-return. And now it is sounding great. Preamp of the ME-90 disabled
Some said they did not like the sound of the Pre-Amps and High Gain Sounds on the ME--80. Then a guy who owned one, suggested that everyone that says the ME--80 sucks, stop cranking the Gain to 10 and the Treble on Stack Mode....and THEN throwing on the Metal Core pedal, also with everything cranked to 10.....hahaha......I had to laugh. I have never owned a ME--80 but I can relate with other units I have owned........I was absolutely assured "they sucked" and "there is NO WAY" you can get a good tone out of that.......Like everything else, knowledge is power, details are important and moderation is often best. Even when going for Hi-Gain sounds. Maybe ESPECIALLY when going for Hi Gain sounds.....Too much Hot sauce can spoil any dish.....Cheers, thanks for listening.
I have already the Boss ME80, but Im really thinking about buying the ME90 or the Headrush mx5. Which one u think is the beat option?? I Love the ME80 cause I hate presets and prefer to do it manual, but I want a more profesional sound
I do think the ME-90 is a solid improvement over the 80, but don't have much experience with the Headrush. I'm a big fan of the NUX and Zoom multiFX units lately, as well as the Helix / HX Stomp if budget permits! Cheers
Excellent work and Thank You for this extensive work! I set my output as the Katana-100 Input as it sounded the most "natural" ... "to me". Made a lot of difference! Already subscribed and Best Regards and Best Wishes!
I got a little lost trying to figure out if you're trying to use this with an amp, or line in for recording. If this works like the gt1000, the outputs will be as follows; recording - you can select any, or no IRs, no output filter applied; line/headphones - original cab applied, no output filter; aird amp output types - no IR, output filter based on selection. With my GTK, I have found it worse when running into the input of an amp, instead of the return. There are just too many variables. If you want no IRs or filters select Recording, though I found this didn't sound good either. I use the tube amp 212 return type, for my tube combo, and it sounds great. No IR, great response with onboard preamps, my combo preamp, or both at the same time.
Thanks for your comment and yes it did get a bit convoluted perhaps… anyway, as it turns out with the ME-90, guitar amp mode doesn’t bypass the IR, there is no way to bypass it, this is my issue but I have found a workaround for it now.
In my view the Boss GT1 is the greatest unit they've ever made, I'm asked lot's to reveal my signal chain and tweaks almost consistently by fellow players, they can see I'm only using it into a pair of 15's 2 way full range p.a. enclosures on stage, some gigs I only use one depending on volume/spread coverage for stage or venue size limits, I'm murdering boutique rigs, I consider my cab/s and set up to be no more hassle than using a conventional top grade guitar amp with a cab or two, I am using a little helper in my signal chain that I know enables it to replicate any serious amp or slay it at will. It's set and go, no farting about, the tones are already set off stage to allow me to play fuss free on stage....it took a long time to figure the tweaks properly with my main use guitar.
Thanks! Looking forward to your next video about this ME90. I was thinking of getting a ME80, but then I knew about this new ME90 and thought on waiting to consider what´s better. I´ll only be playing through my heaphones and/or PC speakers - bedroom player here -. I don´t have a guitar amp or cabinet. Seems like I could get decent sounds this way? Thanks for any input!
I have the GX100. It is WAY more flexible. I have mine dialed in well and get complements for its sound. I use it a Church for contemporary worship music.
That is really interesting. That you cannot turn off the IR is nutts. I have an ME80 and use it way more than I would have imagined, mainly because you can power it by battery. Perfect for overseas gigs and small gigs where a large pedal board is not feasible. It's like a swiss army knife. My main issue with the ME80 is that the reverb is a little grainy. From what I have heard, it sounds way better on the ME90. Rarely do I use the amp sims, but you are correct, it would be nice to use the amp sim as a distortion into a clean amp. I have a GT1. I wonder if its the same for that. Anyway - subbed. Great video.
While using a guitar amp, how would you easily switch between a light overdrive tone and a heavier distortion sound in one patch? These 2 pedals are in the same footswitch....
I really have a problem to integrate the ME-90 into my DAW (FL-Studio) via L/R inputs from my Audio Interface. I just select the ME-90 and then i get the sound. But the strong metal gain i am used from some Guitar Rig 6 presets for example is missing. Is it because it is direcly connected to the PC and i am not using a amp maybe? I just get the output from the ME-90 into FL Studio and it sounds kind of slim and thin in the output. The "power" in the output is kind of missing. This is strange to me, considering that i was only using my guitar trough my audio interface and just selected a metal preset in Guitar Rig 6 and the sound output already had some power and gain behind it (prior to using the ME-90). I have a Axe I/O Solo Interface. But i don't know how to properly connect all the stuff. Where does the input of the guitar signal go. In my Audio Interface or the ME-90? Or the headphones for example? Where do connect it to? Into my Audio Interface or the ME-90? Man i am a little bit confused. I just want to use the ME-90 properly by integrating it into my DAW for recording. But as i said, the power and the gain in the sound is somehow missing.
I would recommend just plug guitar to ME-90 then the analog output (not USB) to where you would normally plug your guitar into your interface, and disable / bypass any plugins on that channel. Then dial in the whole sound on the ME-90 and make sure it's on 'line' output mode so you have a cab sim enabled. Connect headphones to your Axe I/O so you are monitoring what your computer / DAW is 'hearing'. I would only use the USB on the ME-90 if you want to edit via the software and / or load custom cab sims, but it may automatically try to switch itself to be your PC audio device, in which case you would need to manually change it back to the Axe I/O. Hope that helps.
I did the Editor install - and it was difficult. Print off the directions. I am not impressed with the amp simulations but the distortion/boost pedals sound really good. The unit sounded pretty bad until I hooked it up via the 4-cable method - and then it sounded much better. The effects sound good and it's worth buying just for that. Huge bang for the buck.
Thanks so much for the video! I had a question I can't seem to find an answer for anywhere: Are the output, send and return jacks TRS? Or mono? I have the ME-90 and want to run it 4 Cable Method into a stereo setup.
You could easily make a flat IR in voxengo deconvolver by referencing a sweep tone against itself. or do the same in logic's impulse response utility. Guitar circuits are generally high-impedance, high-frequency hellscapes that require the sheering effects of a speaker made from a giant, dull, thick piece of paper to wrangle them back into normal ear space.
Impulse Response - basically a digital 'capture' file of a space / speaker / microphone etc that can be used to then 'simulate' that space via guitar amp + cab simulation or convolution reverb (reverb plugin that can load IR files) etc. In essence an IR / Impulse Response just presents an input-frequency to output-frequency & amplitude map (complex EQ), with a time component as well. (The time component is what separates an IR from a simply static EQ preset, as an IR contains information about frequency over time. This relates to why analog cab sims in general sound less realistic compared to IRs)
Thank you for this! I just picked up a unit and was frustrated with the odd hollow tone that I was getting through my amp. It is the default cab sim! Do you find the ME-90 to be super low output? I have it cranked and it is still quieter compared to my old effects unit.
I have marshall DSL1 combo, I use 4 cable method and didnt switch to amp mode. For what if I use real amp and cab? So just stay in line mode. And it sounds great. 🤷🏻♂️
Hi, thanks for the video. If going to a mixer, do you think the clean preamps would sound good when using the pedals for drive/distortion? Also would love to see a shoot off with the trident you mentioned 😅
Trident shootout likely... yes I think the 'transparent' amp sounds best if you wanted to use the distortion pedals into a mixer / P.A (although you need to connect to a computer to load that amp model onto a patch I believe.) Otherwise I like the clean twin and tweed amp models for the dirt pedals. Cheers
I'm angry at myself for not checking this video before I purchased the me-90... It was supposed to be my main distortion sound box for rehearsals and I was really excited about the preamp models. I'm considering returning it.
@@ardyjan035 The easiest way is to use line output mode and then select a blank IR by pressing any of footswitches 2-4 whilst holding down the edit button (so long as you haven't already loaded IRs into the slots; and if you have, you can clear them with a factory reset.)
If I use the "natural" position I can use the acoustic guitar, isn't it? Can this unit be useful for an acoustic guitar player or is it much better a specific pedalboard, in your opinion? Thanx in advance.
@@ElectriconicJesus The versatility (if you want to) to use an IR instead of the matched cab is 'unacceptable'? You don' thave to use the IR slots if you don't want to.
It’s freakn $350 and does a MASSIVE amount of cool stuff. And if you know how to dial in different tones you’ll understand it’s the best $350 you could possibly spend on a tone generating board. Stop being lazy lol
WHAT IS UP WITH “OUTPUT MODES”? I’ve owned a lot of amp and preamps, and never have I ever had to deal with having 12 output modes. The darn things just had a sound. Any preamp could be hooked up to any power amp and it would play fine 9.5/10 times. I can’t be arsed to remember which number output mode I’m supposed to be in whenever I’m out and about. Which mode works as an all rounder?
If you use line out mode then it disengages the output mode which is what some people prefer, but you would also need to disengage the cab sim / use an empty IR slot for more natural sound if using the amp simulation through a regular guitar amp.
@@PedalScience thanks for your reply 🙏 I ended up getting the GT-1000core instead of the ME-90 and the IR-2. I was planning a board with 4 other pedals and IR-2, but it came out at as much as the ME-90, and then I spotted the GT second hand for the same amount . So your tip still helped me figure this out. As now I know how to use it with any power amp 😃👍
@@PedalScience Note quite is an understatement. This sounds like a very mass produced, $300 toxic plastic pedal made in china. It's OK for what it is...a 300 pedal, made in China. Many better solutions out there- most of which will cost more. Fractal comes to mind. Even HX Stomp XL is better...and pricier. Much less knobs. This is also not an amp- very different animals.
@@MOAB-UT The point of it IS the knobs. Not everyone wants to use 4 knobs to change settings under 15 different menus and submenus of effects or amp simulation settings on a multieffect pedal.
Comment #2 here...my biggest gripe on ALL the ME series is I hate that there is NO led screen that you can name your patches....the numbers led is horrible !!! Im an older dude and damn if I can even remember which amp im even using on any given patch...lol. Honestly THAT feature even keeps me from using my ME-80 at all, but i love the board and the ease of useage and love the sounds I can get from it. I also own the Boss Katana 2 100 watt Head, same thing and i hate having to edit doing the deep dive on a lap top pc...pain in the butt. I have Digitech, Zoom, Korg and other processors that do more for me musically...
Thank you for making this video however I am already stuck. I need to update and I’ve downloaded the update but you show going to the folder and highlighting BOTH the Bin file and the text file but what did you do with it?? You did it so fast I can’t figure it out even after watching it a dozen times I can’t even get this thing to work on the computer until I successfully get this updated …… also I want to turn the NS off … it chokes off to soon for me from what I’m used to. I can’t figure out how to do that either. As much as I want to LOVE this thing , I’m already getting frustrated It looks like you manually turned the Noose Supressor off … how do you do that ?? I don’t see it in the manual. Maybe I’m blind…. I’m already quite frustrated. I’ve always been a pedal person and not real savvy with this difficult computer stuff. They said this is supposed to be easy…. I’m starting to disagree. Ugh!!! Thank you for your help
Hi yes sorry I may have fumbled the editing for that part so I added to the video description - make sure you drag the whole update folder over to the ME-90 when it is connected to your computer, the files need to stay in the folder for the update to work correctly. Regarding the noise gate, hold down the edit button on ME-90 then press ‘bank down’ foot switch to lower it. Bank up raises it. Hope that helps
@@PedalScience That worked great and got it updated Thank you so much!!! And was able to cancel the NS as well. I appreciate your video No one’s taken the time to do what you did and it’s a huge help. Thank you SO MUCH!!!!!
Tank you for the real users video!!! I was looking forward to buy this unit but now I should think little bit more. I was planing to put me90 to amp return as a preamp and pedal board…….
The Effects Order is automatically optimized when pedals are engaged. Ie. The ‘Auto Wah’ and ‘Harmonizer’ move to the very front of the chain, but when switched to Chorus it moves back to its place after Preamp.
When you connect the unit to your daw via usb, the unit will show up as input in your DAW yeah? If so are there two inputs, or stereo source so you can record via stereo using USB?
Yeah that's fine. Sweet, thank you for that. Hope you work out the preamp/cab issue? Is it possible you need to switch the line/amp switch while the unit is on/off?
I wish there was a multi effects where I don't have to be an engineer to use. I want a review where someone says "Wow...all the pre-sets were perfect and I did not have change anything"
There are 2 challenges with that. One is, every guitar sounds different through each preset. A preset that sounds good on a Strat will be muddy on a hollow body and one that sounds good on a Les Paul might sound tinny on a Tele. The other problem is, different people use each unit for different things. Some play alone into a set of headphones and someone else plays through an frfr with a band. It’s hard to make one with presets that’ll sound good to everybody ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I'd prefer it much more if it was possible to change the order of effects. The GX 100 can switch the order of effects (and more amp sims etc.), but the price difference is too much for me. In Canada the ME-90 is $500 and the GX 100 is $800... quite a jump. Glad I just came across your channel... subbed and liked. Best regards from Montreal.
Thanks and yes I agree its a bit of a jump - order switching would be great. Obviously they need to maintain distinctive features between different products but I feel like fx order switching is pretty standard even in lower-priced modelers these days.
hey sr very nice video, i have a MAC book air can u help me with the update i dont know how to copy files here ? @@PedalScience i can cash up if u want it i can get conected on this computer thks .
have u used the transparent amp with an acoustic guitar? it says it is good for acoustic. what about using me 90 straight to PA for live will it sound fine. I need multi-effects processors for both acoustic AND ELECTRIC. mainly for worship would u recommend it
I found that whatever I tried, different cabs, different output selection, long tweaking, the amp models and distortions are very digital, perhaps minus the Fender Twin model. Moreover the output level is CRAZY loud.. Just try the presets and compare the volume of your amp when you engage the ME90.. Just ridiculous.. I sent it back
I just got one. Not only do the amp models suck but the efx aren’t great either. However if you spend enough time demoing them you’ll find one or two in each category that’s reasonably useable. I just got it for convenience of not having to lug a big pedalboard on gigs. I also have an HX stomp and don’t think it sounds much better. All these modelers are pale shadows of what a couple of analog pedals and a good tube amp sounds like. I watch all these videos where people are dialing in all these nuances on modelers and I guess I’m thick-eared but I don’t hear them in the real world when I’m trying out sounds on them. I hear a one-dimensional version of the original 3D sound that’s attempted to be modeled.
Interesting! I did not try ME-90, but I use Boss MS-3, and I carefully compared their modeled pedals to real analog pedals for few hours, and the only difference I found was that digital versions were less noisy ) So I assumed models in ME-90 would be as good.
Dude, If you're using an HX stomp and it doesn't sound good, it's a PEBPAP error. Problem Exists Between Player And Pedal I'm not just being cheeky and I can't speak for the ME90 but the problem is you.
Interestjng thread. I own the MS3, love it, good tones for what I need, but I want something more knobs oriented to use in live gigs. Single stomp boxes require too much cables, power supplier, etc. So I ordered ME90. I'm optimistic about this machine but have some doubt too. Can't wait to test it.
How does this thing sound into a mixing board with standard pa speakers? Why is it nobody ever talk about this I want to use these things without having to lug a guitar amp around If ive got a Katana which is supposed to be the last word in fantastic fully featured multi effect/amp modeling amps Then why would i even want this thing in the first place?
ive just seen this available the other day so ive been researching it. I own the Boss ME-80 alrready so im familiar with the concept here. My opinion is its still the same as the ME-80 is and was...but to me the biggest advantage on this one that is has the effect loop...wish the ME-80 has that. I think this one looks more cheaply built and I hate the ugly plasticky looking control knobs too. Even the way they rounded off the patch stomp switches looks cheap compared to the ME-80. The new multi colored led lights dont mean nothing to me either...lol. And i hate the new names of the new amp sims labeled...what was Boss thinking here? Seems to me they were just dying to make some changes to the same old format. I will keep my ME-80...
The ME90 is supposed to be using their latest amp modeling tech ! The same as their high end multi fx units.. I've heard other demos that sounded great ... This demo makes me not want to buy it ! 😂
@@user-ib5vv6dq7q then get a GX100 or a GT. I doubt that this unit was made for live play, though it could be. Audiences don't care and can't see your pedal board anyway. If they can and are starting at it you never bigger problems because they aren't listening to you.
I'm so confused as to why anyone would use amp sims with a real amp....I just....why? I use this unit (and others) with an amp sim with headphones or FRFR to front of house. If I'm running into the front of an amp, I use that amp, of course. It's just a pedal board in manual mode then.
@@keithb5612 U Try ME90 with Tube or solid state amp and one more thing the worst if u with ME90 and an audio interface and u change cab or preamp sound too harsh for me... i saw 2 video do ME90 recording with an audio interface with DAW
Ok ive been playing for a LOT of years but I wouldnt consider myself any kind of expert on anything. But even i know that using amp simulators and EQ presets while outputting to a guitar amp is just not advisable. I use the ME 50 with my Peavy Classic 50 in my left channel and my VOX VT100x in my right channel. I have already auditioned both preamps and gotten the sound separation I want from each am (in bypass mode w no onbard treatment). I go L out to the Peavey and R out to the VOX. The ME 50 have several EQ presets in the preamp stage. I DO NOT USE THEM ever when im using an amp. WHy? Cuz Im already getting the best each amplifier can give for my ears. What I use the ME 50 for is TREATING my sound. The ME 50 as a preamp wave producer does more of what i need than the VOX VT preamp effects and its more controllable. The Peavey only has a reverb chamber but i dont use that. The ME 50 provides me with far more flexibility as far as reverb is concerned. But i just never ever use an EQ preset in this stereo configuration. It degrades my sound and i dont understadn why anyone would expect ANY preset or amp sim to sound good......THRU AN AMP. Now thru a "speaker" is a different story. a flat response studio monitor could benefit from an amp SIMULATOR. WHy? cuz ur simulating an amp thru a flat response speaker.
Sure, but it's good to test the provided EQ compensation curves built-in, as some people may want to use this with their amp that doesn't have an FX loop
I just started playing and want to get more pedals. I just have an overdrive stop box. So instead of buying a bunch of different stomp boxes, I'm really considering a unit like this. But, this is the 5th review on the ME-90 I've seen, and NOBODY has talked about the actual quality of the sound of the different effects in comparison to a dedicated stop box for each different sound. WTH? No one has every said: "the distortion is better, the same or worse than the BOSS distortion (DS-1) stomp box" for example. They spend most of the video talking about all the different parameters, options, etc..., which is informative, but the never say: "The common effects sound just like the individual stop boxes from BOSS..." This is so confusing for a newbie like me. I just want to jam and maybe form a garage band just for fun. As a beginner, I don't care about all the different stuff it has that are important to an experienced or professional musician. Can someone please tell me if the distortion sounds just like the BOSS DS-1, if the delay sounds like the BOSS DD-3T, if the reverb sounds like the BOSS RV-6, etc... Thank you in advance for any advice you guys can give.
Hi, I would say the DS-1 / DD-3T / RV-6 all sound slightly better but this would be hard if not impossible to notice in a band / jam environment. The ME-90 offers convenience
Man How sad High potential for brickage Thats bad Make sure you do the update within your return period That way if gets bricked Boss can deal with their own pile of bricks
For people who know how to dial in tones and use the amps on the ME90 in an FrFr powered speaker it’s a great device. If you have an amp you live with a loop, use it as a kick ass pedalboard. Truth is, 99% of ppl who think they’re guitar players really aren’t. Just because they bought a guitar and amp, doesn’t mean they know wtf they’re doing. This device is badass and the best $350 you could spend playing guitar. Most ppl just have no clue what they’re doing at all.
I have the ME80 and it was easily the worst money ive ever spent. This doesnt look any better to be honest. Please save your money guys and buy an Ampero Stomp 2 or a HX Stomp.
Bro ur ALREADY WAAY in the weeds. Most of this was gobbledygook to me. Its too tech geeky. The whole reason I choose the ME series over the GT series is because I DONT LIKE SUB-MENUS. I dont need more, i need to turn the knobs, save the patches, push the pedals and FUCKING rock n roll! All the shit ur doing is what i would pay a guitar tech to do.
This is what I was searching for - an independent review - instead of a sales pitch that makes the me 90 sound awesome in every situation. Thanks for the honesty.
I got suckered by the former and bought it to replace my ME50 my initial reaction was that it sounded awful.The preamps and distortions were terrible. I've messed around with it a bit more since and hooked it up to my computer so I can replace the preamps with the software editor. I'm looking for a classic clean sound like a fender twin,a crunchy rhythm sound like a marshall and maybe a higher gain jcm 800 lead sound to cover 60s to present covers using mainly a Strat.This is not providing any of these sounds out of the box
looking at the DSP corrections happening on the output through ProQ is just top notch - rarely do we get this kind of detailed analysis of guitar pedals. really well done
A real “review” in actual application from someone who cares how it sounds. Bravo 👏
Seriously thinking of getting this unit and this video reaffirmed how I’d use it.
1. Preamp on: through headphones or studio monitors
2. Preamp OFF as a multi-effects for my amp.
That’s the exact intended use. BOSS was never expecting anyone to use a preamp into an actual pre-amp of a real guitar amp. And for $350 this thing is absolutely insane. If you wanna spend a little more, just get a Katana Artist Combo amp. I see them all day for $400. Make sure you get the MK2 or MK3. The MK1 has less features and the dials and knobs are totally different. The Katana Artist combo is in the top 3 combo amps in amp history. Period.
In the weeds for sure but man are you thorough!! Respect
Thank you for the Current draw. Love to see it.
Thanks for all the effort. Very interesting. I bought this board a couple of days ago and was about to try a similar set of tests. 😊
i was disappointed with the amp models myself which led me here, hope Boss addresses this issue ..thanks for the awesome vid and much useful info
Had better luck with the preamp models using LINE instead Gt. Amp into the front of my tube amp, seems counter intuitive to me but they sound much better with the AIRD outputs off
yeah same here@@cogdog69
Very nice and thorough unbiased overview! Luckily I have no intention of running it into a real amp- have been able to dial in some very solid sounding patches using the 'boutique' preamp + various effects. Also really like the deluxe reverb preamp (both selectable options that require the tone studio to load). So far I've been running it through a Bose L1 Pro8 PA.
Yes, I just have the ME-90 and the models are not useable very bad.
I now use the Tonex pedal with a clean twin amp into the send-return. And now it is sounding great. Preamp of the ME-90 disabled
I think maybe you’re being a little picky.
Why you don't change the ir?
Getting to grips is the right description. I just got one and it’s a bit of work but love it so far
Oh my god!!! My old rack effect…the orange one! Amazing multieffect I used 20 years ago.
I love that!!!
Some said they did not like the sound of the Pre-Amps and High Gain Sounds on the ME--80.
Then a guy who owned one, suggested that everyone that says the ME--80 sucks, stop cranking the Gain to 10 and the Treble on Stack Mode....and THEN throwing on the Metal Core pedal, also with everything cranked to 10.....hahaha......I had to laugh. I have never owned a ME--80 but I can relate with other units I have owned........I was absolutely assured "they sucked" and "there is NO WAY" you can get a good tone out of that.......Like everything else, knowledge is power, details are important and moderation is often best. Even when going for Hi-Gain sounds. Maybe ESPECIALLY when going for Hi Gain sounds.....Too much Hot sauce can spoil any dish.....Cheers, thanks for listening.
Yesterday I ordered a 2nd hand ME80, will arrive tomorrow :) Will do what it takes ❤😅😊…and thanks for putting together this video!
Great Review 😍
I have already the Boss ME80, but Im really thinking about buying the ME90 or the Headrush mx5. Which one u think is the beat option??
I Love the ME80 cause I hate presets and prefer to do it manual, but I want a more profesional sound
I do think the ME-90 is a solid improvement over the 80, but don't have much experience with the Headrush. I'm a big fan of the NUX and Zoom multiFX units lately, as well as the Helix / HX Stomp if budget permits! Cheers
Cheers for this!
Excellent work and Thank You for this extensive work! I set my output as the Katana-100 Input as it sounded the most "natural" ... "to me". Made a lot of difference! Already subscribed and Best Regards and Best Wishes!
I got a little lost trying to figure out if you're trying to use this with an amp, or line in for recording. If this works like the gt1000, the outputs will be as follows; recording - you can select any, or no IRs, no output filter applied; line/headphones - original cab applied, no output filter; aird amp output types - no IR, output filter based on selection. With my GTK, I have found it worse when running into the input of an amp, instead of the return. There are just too many variables. If you want no IRs or filters select Recording, though I found this didn't sound good either. I use the tube amp 212 return type, for my tube combo, and it sounds great. No IR, great response with onboard preamps, my combo preamp, or both at the same time.
Thanks for your comment and yes it did get a bit convoluted perhaps… anyway, as it turns out with the ME-90, guitar amp mode doesn’t bypass the IR, there is no way to bypass it, this is my issue but I have found a workaround for it now.
In my view the Boss GT1 is the greatest unit they've ever made, I'm asked lot's to reveal my signal chain and tweaks almost consistently by fellow players, they can see I'm only using it into a pair of 15's 2 way full range p.a. enclosures on stage, some gigs I only use one depending on volume/spread coverage for stage or venue size limits, I'm murdering boutique rigs, I consider my cab/s and set up to be no more hassle than using a conventional top grade guitar amp with a cab or two, I am using a little helper in my signal chain that I know enables it to replicate any serious amp or slay it at will.
It's set and go, no farting about, the tones are already set off stage to allow me to play fuss free on stage....it took a long time to figure the tweaks properly with my main use guitar.
Thanks! Looking forward to your next video about this ME90. I was thinking of getting a ME80, but then I knew about this new ME90 and thought on waiting to consider what´s better. I´ll only be playing through my heaphones and/or PC speakers - bedroom player here -. I don´t have a guitar amp or cabinet. Seems like I could get decent sounds this way? Thanks for any input!
I do think the ME-90 is worth it over the 80. I’ve been getting some nice sounds today and have a more positive video in the works. Cheers
I have the GX100. It is WAY more flexible. I have mine dialed in well and get complements for its sound. I use it a Church for contemporary worship music.
That is really interesting. That you cannot turn off the IR is nutts. I have an ME80 and use it way more than I would have imagined, mainly because you can power it by battery. Perfect for overseas gigs and small gigs where a large pedal board is not feasible. It's like a swiss army knife. My main issue with the ME80 is that the reverb is a little grainy. From what I have heard, it sounds way better on the ME90. Rarely do I use the amp sims, but you are correct, it would be nice to use the amp sim as a distortion into a clean amp. I have a GT1. I wonder if its the same for that. Anyway - subbed. Great video.
Just flip the switch on the back, that is supposed to turn off the IR
While using a guitar amp, how would you easily switch between a light overdrive tone and a heavier distortion sound in one patch? These 2 pedals are in the same footswitch....
I really have a problem to integrate the ME-90 into my DAW (FL-Studio) via L/R inputs from my Audio Interface. I just select the ME-90 and then i get the sound. But the strong metal gain i am used from some Guitar Rig 6 presets for example is missing. Is it because it is direcly connected to the PC and i am not using a amp maybe? I just get the output from the ME-90 into FL Studio and it sounds kind of slim and thin in the output. The "power" in the output is kind of missing. This is strange to me, considering that i was only using my guitar trough my audio interface and just selected a metal preset in Guitar Rig 6 and the sound output already had some power and gain behind it (prior to using the ME-90).
I have a Axe I/O Solo Interface. But i don't know how to properly connect all the stuff. Where does the input of the guitar signal go. In my Audio Interface or the ME-90? Or the headphones for example? Where do connect it to? Into my Audio Interface or the ME-90? Man i am a little bit confused.
I just want to use the ME-90 properly by integrating it into my DAW for recording. But as i said, the power and the gain in the sound is somehow missing.
I would recommend just plug guitar to ME-90 then the analog output (not USB) to where you would normally plug your guitar into your interface, and disable / bypass any plugins on that channel. Then dial in the whole sound on the ME-90 and make sure it's on 'line' output mode so you have a cab sim enabled. Connect headphones to your Axe I/O so you are monitoring what your computer / DAW is 'hearing'. I would only use the USB on the ME-90 if you want to edit via the software and / or load custom cab sims, but it may automatically try to switch itself to be your PC audio device, in which case you would need to manually change it back to the Axe I/O. Hope that helps.
I did the Editor install - and it was difficult. Print off the directions.
I am not impressed with the amp simulations but the distortion/boost pedals sound really good.
The unit sounded pretty bad until I hooked it up via the 4-cable method - and then it sounded much better. The effects sound good and it's worth buying just for that. Huge bang for the buck.
Thanks so much for the video! I had a question I can't seem to find an answer for anywhere:
Are the output, send and return jacks TRS? Or mono?
I have the ME-90 and want to run it 4 Cable Method into a stereo setup.
Thanks for your comment - they are mono / unbalanced.
You could easily make a flat IR in voxengo deconvolver by referencing a sweep tone against itself. or do the same in logic's impulse response utility. Guitar circuits are generally high-impedance, high-frequency hellscapes that require the sheering effects of a speaker made from a giant, dull, thick piece of paper to wrangle them back into normal ear space.
That’s exactly what I did actually!
Can someone explain what an "IR" is? Asking for a friend.
Impulse Response - basically a digital 'capture' file of a space / speaker / microphone etc that can be used to then 'simulate' that space via guitar amp + cab simulation or convolution reverb (reverb plugin that can load IR files) etc. In essence an IR / Impulse Response just presents an input-frequency to output-frequency & amplitude map (complex EQ), with a time component as well. (The time component is what separates an IR from a simply static EQ preset, as an IR contains information about frequency over time. This relates to why analog cab sims in general sound less realistic compared to IRs)
I run it direct to the board and gig with it every weekend- 80's Metal. Love it! I replaced my ME80 with it
great video!!
Thank you for this! I just picked up a unit and was frustrated with the odd hollow tone that I was getting through my amp. It is the default cab sim! Do you find the ME-90 to be super low output? I have it cranked and it is still quieter compared to my old effects unit.
Make sure you have the expression pedal toe down as it controls volume by default, in addition to the output level knob
I have marshall DSL1 combo, I use 4 cable method and didnt switch to amp mode. For what if I use real amp and cab? So just stay in line mode. And it sounds great. 🤷🏻♂️
Hi, thanks for the video. If going to a mixer, do you think the clean preamps would sound good when using the pedals for drive/distortion? Also would love to see a shoot off with the trident you mentioned 😅
Trident shootout likely... yes I think the 'transparent' amp sounds best if you wanted to use the distortion pedals into a mixer / P.A (although you need to connect to a computer to load that amp model onto a patch I believe.) Otherwise I like the clean twin and tweed amp models for the dirt pedals. Cheers
@@PedalScience thanks
Do you think they'll add flat output option in future patch?
I'm angry at myself for not checking this video before I purchased the me-90... It was supposed to be my main distortion sound box for rehearsals and I was really excited about the preamp models. I'm considering returning it.
@@ardyjan035 The easiest way is to use line output mode and then select a blank IR by pressing any of footswitches 2-4 whilst holding down the edit button (so long as you haven't already loaded IRs into the slots; and if you have, you can clear them with a factory reset.)
@@PedalScience that's a good idea, I'll try that, thanks a lot
If I use the "natural" position I can use the acoustic guitar, isn't it? Can this unit be useful for an acoustic guitar player or is it much better a specific pedalboard, in your opinion? Thanx in advance.
Yes it's great for acoustic
I have two questions... Where can you buy IR? And do the factory presets already have IRs preloaded?
Yes they have the IRs loaded already for each amp. You can buy IRs from Ownhammer, York Audio etc
just to be clear, this does not have multiple cabinets built in? is it just matched cabs to the amps?
Correct, not built in but you can load IRs to change the cab for any given amp sim.
@@PedalScience thats unacceptable. thanks.
@@ElectriconicJesus The versatility (if you want to) to use an IR instead of the matched cab is 'unacceptable'? You don' thave to use the IR slots if you don't want to.
@@CedricSatterfield yes
It’s freakn $350 and does a MASSIVE amount of cool stuff. And if you know how to dial in different tones you’ll understand it’s the best $350 you could possibly spend on a tone generating board. Stop being lazy lol
WHAT IS UP WITH “OUTPUT MODES”?
I’ve owned a lot of amp and preamps, and never have I ever had to deal with having 12 output modes. The darn things just had a sound.
Any preamp could be hooked up to any power amp and it would play fine 9.5/10 times.
I can’t be arsed to remember which number output mode I’m supposed to be in whenever I’m out and about.
Which mode works as an all rounder?
If you use line out mode then it disengages the output mode which is what some people prefer, but you would also need to disengage the cab sim / use an empty IR slot for more natural sound if using the amp simulation through a regular guitar amp.
@@PedalScience thanks for your reply 🙏
I ended up getting the GT-1000core instead of the ME-90 and the IR-2.
I was planning a board with 4 other pedals and IR-2, but it came out at as much as the ME-90, and then I spotted the GT second hand for the same amount . So your tip still helped me figure this out. As now I know how to use it with any power amp 😃👍
How does this sound plugged in straight to a PA system?
Pretty good IMO but perhaps not quite as good as tubes + decent IRs
@@PedalScience Note quite is an understatement. This sounds like a very mass produced, $300 toxic plastic pedal made in china. It's OK for what it is...a 300 pedal, made in China. Many better solutions out there- most of which will cost more. Fractal comes to mind. Even HX Stomp XL is better...and pricier. Much less knobs. This is also not an amp- very different animals.
@@MOAB-UT The point of it IS the knobs. Not everyone wants to use 4 knobs to change settings under 15 different menus and submenus of effects or amp simulation settings on a multieffect pedal.
@@CedricSatterfield I don't mind knobs but I need better tone than what this thing offers. I played it. Not impressed.
@@MOAB-UTyou did it wrong.
Why would you use a Boss amp model into the input of a guitar amp? Unless i am missing something?
To change the sound to something else - why not?
@@PedalScience Because stacking an amp model on top of an amp doesn't make sense to me?
@CaViTaTioNguitars what if you’re playing through a twin reverb or jc-120 and want a Marshall sound etc?
@@PedalScience then you connect the processor in the loop of your amp, but not in front...
@@zonakmahanta I don't understand the point you are making unfortunately, could you please elaborate?
Question: KATANA POWER AMP IN , bypasses any preamp the Katana has and just uses the Speaker. Shouldn't this save most of the issues ?
No, it's a compensation EQ designed specifically for connecting ME-90 to a Katana
Comment #2 here...my biggest gripe on ALL the ME series is I hate that there is NO led screen that you can name your patches....the numbers led is horrible !!! Im an older dude and damn if I can even remember which amp im even using on any given patch...lol. Honestly THAT feature even keeps me from using my ME-80 at all, but i love the board and the ease of useage and love the sounds I can get from it. I also own the Boss Katana 2 100 watt Head, same thing and i hate having to edit doing the deep dive on a lap top pc...pain in the butt. I have Digitech, Zoom, Korg and other processors that do more for me musically...
Thank you for making this video however I am already stuck. I need to update and I’ve downloaded the update but you show going to the folder and highlighting BOTH the Bin file and the text file but what did you do with it?? You did it so fast I can’t figure it out even after watching it a dozen times I can’t even get this thing to work on the computer until I successfully get this updated …… also I want to turn the NS off … it chokes off to soon for me from what I’m used to. I can’t figure out how to do that either. As much as I want to LOVE this thing , I’m already getting frustrated It looks like you manually turned the Noose Supressor off … how do you do that ?? I don’t see it in the manual. Maybe I’m blind…. I’m already quite frustrated. I’ve always been a pedal person and not real savvy with this difficult computer stuff. They said this is supposed to be easy…. I’m starting to disagree. Ugh!!! Thank you for your help
Hi yes sorry I may have fumbled the editing for that part so I added to the video description - make sure you drag the whole update folder over to the ME-90 when it is connected to your computer, the files need to stay in the folder for the update to work correctly. Regarding the noise gate, hold down the edit button on ME-90 then press ‘bank down’ foot switch to lower it. Bank up raises it. Hope that helps
@@PedalScience That worked great and got it updated Thank you so much!!! And was able to cancel the NS as well. I appreciate your video No one’s taken the time to do what you did and it’s a huge help. Thank you SO MUCH!!!!!
This is at odds with the textual description of the update that says not the whole folder.
@@PedalScience
Tank you for the real users video!!!
I was looking forward to buy this unit but now I should think little bit more.
I was planing to put me90 to amp return as a preamp and pedal board…….
Do you prefer this to the GX100?
Haven’t used it sorry! I have the much older GX700
Does it come with a paperback manual, what's in the box?
Unfortunately not, and no power supply (although it does include batteries)
@@PedalScience Thank you for the reply.
The Effects Order is automatically optimized when pedals are engaged.
Ie. The ‘Auto Wah’ and ‘Harmonizer’ move to the very front of the chain, but when switched to Chorus it moves back to its place after Preamp.
When you connect the unit to your daw via usb, the unit will show up as input in your DAW yeah? If so are there two inputs, or stereo source so you can record via stereo using USB?
You would have to select it as the audio device in your DAW but yes it can do stereo i/o over the built-in USB connection.
Yeah that's fine. Sweet, thank you for that. Hope you work out the preamp/cab issue? Is it possible you need to switch the line/amp switch while the unit is on/off?
Damn, it's still a front plug only. Bad preamp model from ME model still sigh... an extra IR would help I suppose?
I wish there was a multi effects where I don't have to be an engineer to use. I want a review where someone says "Wow...all the pre-sets were perfect and I did not have change anything"
I have heard the axe-fx presets are great... but it obviously isn't cheap!
There are 2 challenges with that. One is, every guitar sounds different through each preset. A preset that sounds good on a Strat will be muddy on a hollow body and one that sounds good on a Les Paul might sound tinny on a Tele.
The other problem is, different people use each unit for different things. Some play alone into a set of headphones and someone else plays through an frfr with a band. It’s hard to make one with presets that’ll sound good to everybody
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I'd prefer it much more if it was possible to change the order of effects. The GX 100 can switch the order of effects (and more amp sims etc.), but the price difference is too much for me. In Canada the ME-90 is $500 and the GX 100 is $800... quite a jump. Glad I just came across your channel... subbed and liked. Best regards from Montreal.
Thanks and yes I agree its a bit of a jump - order switching would be great. Obviously they need to maintain distinctive features between different products but I feel like fx order switching is pretty standard even in lower-priced modelers these days.
hey sr very nice video, i have a MAC book air can u help me with the update i dont know how to copy files here ? @@PedalScience i can cash up if u want it i can get conected on this computer thks .
have u used the transparent amp with an acoustic guitar? it says it is good for acoustic. what about using me 90 straight to PA for live will it sound fine. I need multi-effects processors for both acoustic AND ELECTRIC. mainly for worship would u recommend it
I would certainly recommend it
I found that whatever I tried, different cabs, different output selection, long tweaking, the amp models and distortions are very digital, perhaps minus the Fender Twin model.
Moreover the output level is CRAZY loud.. Just try the presets and compare the volume of your amp when you engage the ME90.. Just ridiculous.. I sent it back
I just got one. Not only do the amp models suck but the efx aren’t great either. However if you spend enough time demoing them you’ll find one or two in each category that’s reasonably useable. I just got it for convenience of not having to lug a big pedalboard on gigs. I also have an HX stomp and don’t think it sounds much better. All these modelers are pale shadows of what a couple of analog pedals and a good tube amp sounds like. I watch all these videos where people are dialing in all these nuances on modelers and I guess
I’m thick-eared but I don’t hear them in the real world when I’m trying out sounds on them. I hear a one-dimensional version of the original 3D sound that’s attempted to be modeled.
Interesting! I did not try ME-90, but I use Boss MS-3, and I carefully compared their modeled pedals to real analog pedals for few hours, and the only difference I found was that digital versions were less noisy ) So I assumed models in ME-90 would be as good.
Dude, If you're using an HX stomp and it doesn't sound good, it's a PEBPAP error.
Problem
Exists
Between
Player
And
Pedal
I'm not just being cheeky and I can't speak for the ME90 but the problem is you.
Interestjng thread. I own the MS3, love it, good tones for what I need, but I want something more knobs oriented to use in live gigs. Single stomp boxes require too much cables, power supplier, etc. So I ordered ME90. I'm optimistic about this machine but have some doubt too. Can't wait to test it.
@@Avatar7x7 you are referring to a wrong person, I never had HX Stomp, I have Boss MS-3.
@@SergeiVlassov Well whoever got the Stomp on this thread ..holla 😁
How does this thing sound into a mixing board with standard pa speakers?
Why is it nobody ever talk about this
I want to use these things without having to lug a guitar amp around
If ive got a Katana which is supposed to be the last word in fantastic fully featured multi effect/amp modeling amps
Then why would i even want this thing in the first place?
Yes it has pre-loaded cab sims so you can get good tones straight to a P.A
This thing does WAY more than a Katana. Not even close.
16.25 peavey with ts ohhh great sound❤
I have the me 80. And just got the 90. The 90 suxs .. to much digital bs sound ...can't get a decent crunch sound out of it sending it back..
Does this have Synth?
Unfortunately it does not
ive just seen this available the other day so ive been researching it. I own the Boss ME-80 alrready so im familiar with the concept here. My opinion is its still the same as the ME-80 is and was...but to me the biggest advantage on this one that is has the effect loop...wish the ME-80 has that. I think this one looks more cheaply built and I hate the ugly plasticky looking control knobs too. Even the way they rounded off the patch stomp switches looks cheap compared to the ME-80. The new multi colored led lights dont mean nothing to me either...lol. And i hate the new names of the new amp sims labeled...what was Boss thinking here? Seems to me they were just dying to make some changes to the same old format. I will keep my ME-80...
The ME90 is supposed to be using their latest amp modeling tech ! The same as their high end multi fx units.. I've heard other demos that sounded great ... This demo makes me not want to buy it ! 😂
The amp names are taken directly from the GX-100 and GT1000.
@@user-ib5vv6dq7q then get a GX100 or a GT. I doubt that this unit was made for live play, though it could be. Audiences don't care and can't see your pedal board anyway. If they can and are starting at it you never bigger problems because they aren't listening to you.
Shouldn't be using the preamp with a real amp, but nice that you investigated, thanks.
Still plasticy in the upper register and buzzy bass, after all these years?
I think it sounds okay
@@PedalScience Peavey Viper X3
Thanks for the great content. Sub'd.🙂
I'm so confused as to why anyone would use amp sims with a real amp....I just....why? I use this unit (and others) with an amp sim with headphones or FRFR to front of house. If I'm running into the front of an amp, I use that amp, of course. It's just a pedal board in manual mode then.
Boss would like to welcome everyone to 1996.
😂
Already compare with hotone mini vs me90 n nux mg30 better than ME90
You compared the Hotone Ampero Mini with the Boss ME 90? What were the results? I am thinking about these units?
@@keithb5612 U Try ME90 with Tube or solid state amp and one more thing the worst if u with ME90 and an audio interface and u change cab or preamp sound too harsh for me... i saw 2 video do ME90 recording with an audio interface with DAW
Build your own FX. That's fucked with my head. I don't know how Big Joe Williams would have got on with it
haha love that bruce campbell on evil dead 2 on the pedal awesome
Ok ive been playing for a LOT of years but I wouldnt consider myself any kind of expert on anything. But even i know that using amp simulators and EQ presets while outputting to a guitar amp is just not advisable. I use the ME 50 with my Peavy Classic 50 in my left channel and my VOX VT100x in my right channel. I have already auditioned both preamps and gotten the sound separation I want from each am (in bypass mode w no onbard treatment). I go L out to the Peavey and R out to the VOX. The ME 50 have several EQ presets in the preamp stage. I DO NOT USE THEM ever when im using an amp. WHy? Cuz Im already getting the best each amplifier can give for my ears. What I use the ME 50 for is TREATING my sound. The ME 50 as a preamp wave producer does more of what i need than the VOX VT preamp effects and its more controllable. The Peavey only has a reverb chamber but i dont use that. The ME 50 provides me with far more flexibility as far as reverb is concerned. But i just never ever use an EQ preset in this stereo configuration. It degrades my sound and i dont understadn why anyone would expect ANY preset or amp sim to sound good......THRU AN AMP. Now thru a "speaker" is a different story. a flat response studio monitor could benefit from an amp SIMULATOR. WHy? cuz ur simulating an amp thru a flat response speaker.
Sure, but it's good to test the provided EQ compensation curves built-in, as some people may want to use this with their amp that doesn't have an FX loop
I just started playing and want to get more pedals. I just have an overdrive stop box. So instead of buying a bunch of different stomp boxes, I'm really considering a unit like this. But, this is the 5th review on the ME-90 I've seen, and NOBODY has talked about the actual quality of the sound of the different effects in comparison to a dedicated stop box for each different sound. WTH? No one has every said: "the distortion is better, the same or worse than the BOSS distortion (DS-1) stomp box" for example.
They spend most of the video talking about all the different parameters, options, etc..., which is informative, but the never say: "The common effects sound just like the individual stop boxes from BOSS..." This is so confusing for a newbie like me.
I just want to jam and maybe form a garage band just for fun. As a beginner, I don't care about all the different stuff it has that are important to an experienced or professional musician.
Can someone please tell me if the distortion sounds just like the BOSS DS-1, if the delay sounds like the BOSS DD-3T, if the reverb sounds like the BOSS RV-6, etc... Thank you in advance for any advice you guys can give.
Hi, I would say the DS-1 / DD-3T / RV-6 all sound slightly better but this would be hard if not impossible to notice in a band / jam environment. The ME-90 offers convenience
@@PedalScience Thank you very much brother!
Man
How sad
High potential for brickage
Thats bad
Make sure you do the update within your return period
That way if gets bricked Boss can deal with their own pile of bricks
Sounds like old school Roland products..
In a good way? 🧐
I think whether or not this unit sucks, has a lot to do with opinion, and not much to do with fact.
For people who know how to dial in tones and use the amps on the ME90 in an FrFr powered speaker it’s a great device. If you have an amp you live with a loop, use it as a kick ass pedalboard. Truth is, 99% of ppl who think they’re guitar players really aren’t. Just because they bought a guitar and amp, doesn’t mean they know wtf they’re doing. This device is badass and the best $350 you could spend playing guitar. Most ppl just have no clue what they’re doing at all.
It's nice but it ain't no tube amp
I have the ME80 and it was easily the worst money ive ever spent. This doesnt look any better to be honest. Please save your money guys and buy an Ampero Stomp 2 or a HX Stomp.
As for guitar thing...90 % of this is talking.
That sounds pretty awful and I don’t think it’s the amp modelling that is the problem.
Most of the units can sound superb but they need fr cabs and a power amp or it's a double amping waste of time.
Bro ur ALREADY WAAY in the weeds. Most of this was gobbledygook to me. Its too tech geeky. The whole reason I choose the ME series over the GT series is because I DONT LIKE SUB-MENUS. I dont need more, i need to turn the knobs, save the patches, push the pedals and FUCKING rock n roll! All the shit ur doing is what i would pay a guitar tech to do.