MoJoKe

The new firmware for the guitar multiamp (V4) is now available for download on the DVMark site, and the bass version (V3) is due very shortly on the Markbass site. The guitar version has two new amp models and eight new effects (which hopefully suggests similar progress on the bass version!), and some considerable changes on the MIDI integration. This will almost certainly be the same as the guitar version as it has been implemented for the new footswitch (which is tiny, by the way!), the most relevant (I think!) is that each effect will have its on CC# which means that if, for example, you put a delay in different slots in the signal chain in different patches you can toggle that effect in all patches from the same footswitch... very sensible! The full implementation i:- [size=2][b]MIDI ADDRESS[/b] It allows to select the MIDI channel that the Multiamp is to receive MIDI commands from a MIDI Pedalboard/Controller - Check the MIDI channel # (1~16) set on the pedalboard, then go to the MIDI ADDRESS menu and press ENTER, choose the MIDI ADDRESS # (0~15) of the Multiamp scrolling the UP/DOWN buttons (MIDI address “0” is MIDI Ch 1, MIDI address “1” is MIDI Ch 2, and so on) and press ENTER. Note that the Multiamp MIDI Pedalboard MIDI channels are named 0~15 as for the Multiamp MIDI address, so in case you have it you’d choose the same number on both units. [b]PRESET/PATCH MAP[/b] This function allows you to map MIDI program numbers to specific presets of the Multiamp. - The number on the left of the display is the PATCH number sent via a MIDI Pedalboard/Controller (MIDI program number). Use the UP/DOWN buttons to select the number to be mapped to a preset; - The number on the right of the display is the PRESET number to map, that will be recalled when the MIDI program number on the left is sent. Use the VALUE control to select the preset number to map to; - Press ENTER to save the MAP. [b]CONTROL CHANGE MAP (new improvement)[/b] With Firmware Update V 4.0 this function now allows you to select ON/OFF of EFFECTs (instead of SLOTs as at the previous version) assigned to specific Control Change of the programmable MIDI Pedalboard/Controller. - Use the VALUE control to select the effect to map to a specific control change number; - Use the UP/DOWN buttons to select the control change number (from 0 to 127) to be mapped to the selected effect - Repeat the above procedure for other effects you like to assign to a specific control change numbers, note that you can assign same C/C# to more effects may you like to turn they ON/OFF simultaneously sending that C/C# prom the MIDI pedalboard. - Press ENTER to save the MAP. [b]TAP TEMPO[/b] By holding the RECALL button for few seconds (on the MULTIAMP’s front panel) you will have access to the TAP TEMPO function, for preset/s that include a DELAY effect. You can set the desired tempo by pushing multiple times the ENTER button; the led will show the selected tempo speed. - This function is available also via MIDI, it can be activated sending a MIDI Note ON command, parameter note = 60, velocity > 0 from a programmable MIDI pedalboard/controller. On the Multiamp MIDI Pedalboard the TAP TEMPO function is assigned by default to switch #3, you have just to hold that switch for few seconds to have instant access to the TAP TEMPO. [b]VOLUME PEDAL[/b] VOLUME PEDAL function is assigned to Control Change # 27. - Using a Programmable MIDI Pedalboard with Volume Pedal, set its function on Control Change # 27. - Choose the SLOT of the preset where you want to assign the VOLUME PEDAL, press SLOT SELECT and use the UP/DOWN buttons to select the VOLUME PEDAL, press ENTER and select the PEDAL and RANGE parameters as you like, then STORE the preset. The Multiamp MIDI Pedalboard features a Expression Pedal input, assigned by default to CC# 27. [b]TUNER access via MIDI[/b] TUNER function is assigned to Control Change # 28. - Using a Programmable MIDI Pedalboard, set the Control Change # 28 to have access to the TUNER function. On the Multiamp MIDI Pedalboard the Tuner function (CC #28) is assigned by default to switch #2, you have just to hold that switch for few seconds to have instant access to the TUNER on the Multiamp.[/size]

[quote name='paddy mcbride' timestamp='1430205490' post='2758801'] Sorry if this has been covered before but will a LD MEI 100 work with 2 receiver packs simultaneously? Or does each band member need their own transmitter? [/quote] Both I and my guitarist have an LD MEI 1000 (it really is worth the extra money over the 100), and you can run a number of receivers off each (I've tested mine with 4, but I really see no reason why it couldn't be more; receivers are only "listening" after all!). However, even though we have one each, for most gigs we normally share a single transmitter to keep our setup as simple as possible (we do lots of different clubs where they use lots of radio mics and we were clashing frequencies all the time). This is because the 1000 has "Focus Mode". We have an X32 Producer digital desk and feed Aux 1 (guitarist's FB mix) and 2 (my FB mix) into the left and right of the MEI1000. Set in focus mode, he pans his receiver fully left to get a mono mix in both ears of the output of Aux 1, and I pan my receiver full right and get a mono mix in both ears of what is on Aux 2. We each get our own independent mix and while it is not HiFi, all is perfectly good! If there are more band members who want/need a different mix, then you'd need two more aux channels and an additional transmitter and two receivers per pair of band members, but you'd be spared the cost of one each (unless you each want a stereo foldback mix but that would also use up quite a lot of aux channels, which most compact desks won't be able to support). Hope that helps

[quote name='dood' timestamp='1430215461' post='2758947'] I've sold my grannies, kidneys, arm and leg - not sure what's left!! [/quote] Do you mean you've sold your grannie's kidney, arm and leg, or that you've sold both your grannies as well as some assorted component parts?

[quote name='dood' timestamp='1430211842' post='2758875'] At this rate I'm gonna need a couple of grand to cover the cost of the purchases I need in my life right now! This is just one such item ha! [/quote] Do-it-do-it-do-it!! On another note, I am lending my rig as backline (I am helping stage manage and with sound so I will be with it all weekend!) for the [url="http://honitonfestival.org/"]Sausage and Cider Festival[/url] in Honiton this Friday/Saturday. Its all in aid of the Devon Freewheelers (the charity who provide the Blood Bikes). It involves Cider, Sausages, Live music and the opportunity to hear the Multiamp in action. I'l be in heaven! Whats not to love! Come and find me if you are able to get there....

OK, so I've just had a discussion about updates in V3 will principally be for better MIDI implementation, but there will also be a raft of new effects and functions (including a change to the "Save" function, where it currently requires you to re-enter the patch name, which was very frustrating!). It's due out "imminently" so by the end of the week I hope, as May is going to be a busy one for me, and I would like to go into the month with it all up to date with the latest release, and my MIDI control working perfectly!! First person to spot on the the MB website, please post here, so we can all get it ASAP!

[quote name='dannybuoy' timestamp='1429998905' post='2757117'] This thing does sound great, I wonder if they have plans for a traditional multi fx unit? The overdrive sounds are really good, I'd certainly think about ditching my pedals for one of these. [/quote] When you get to try one you'll want to ditch your whole rig for one... And I suspect the answer is probably not, as this is the future. An all in one single rack based solution...

[quote name='lojo' timestamp='1429806618' post='2755197'] No idea what version my is running, but Ive decided not to plug it into the PC until after this weekends gig , when I have some time to bugger around if things don't sync well. [/quote] Always a sensible plan, though is almost certainly running V2, as it will have been supplied through MSL, and they check the firmware and upgrade if required on all Multiamps shipped. The upgrade is done using the SD rather than connecting to the PC, but if you've sourced a USB A to A plug cable (Maplin stock them), then its worth downloading and having a play with the remote control software, as it is even easier to create patches... I've not spoken to the guys from MSL since Musikmesse, but hopefully will tomorrow. I'll update if any news!

[quote name='chrismuzz' timestamp='1429035298' post='2747269'] Damn this thing could replace my entire rig. Thank God I'm skint! [/quote] [quote name='dood' timestamp='1429035994' post='2747281'] This, especially when it comes to using in-ears or when recording. I am very interested in pairing with the likes of the Barefaced Big Twin 2. [/quote]

[quote name='alexclaber' timestamp='1429014114' post='2746998'] I was impressed with the tones this could achieve when I tried one. The potential complexity will probably scare a lot of bassists off but it's friendlier than it looks - and once configured you can treat it just like a normal amp. We were using it through a Big Baby 2 and you could hear all the minutiae of the sonic details of everything it was modelling - the dynamic response was great, it felt pretty good as well as sounding good. [/quote] I would really like to hear it through BF cabs too. Anyone in Devon got something I can borrow for a couple of hours, or come and have a play yourself? Although lots swear by them, seeing how often they move around our community here (I moderate in the "effects for sale" marketplace so I know these things!), I suspect the bass world has probably never really got on with traditional multi-effects and amp modelling from the likes of Zoom, Boss, Line 6. This is definitely NOT one of those. This IS a Markbass amp (well, all of them actually!), which does amp modelling and effects too, and is in a completely different league. Several have mentioned the potential complexity before but, as Alex says, it really is much friendlier than it looks if you spend a couple of minutes with it. If all you want it to be for tonight's gig is an LMIII head, then it really [i]is[/i] as easy to use as an LMIII, with all the same controllability, and nearly all of it in exactly the same place you would expect to find it ...and if you spend a little bit more time with it, you can create monster tones or incredible shimmering subtlety. All from a single 2u rack mounted box.

[quote name='lojo' timestamp='1429007760' post='2746871'] GAK where recommending the softstep as a control, so someone somewhere must have info on using it effectively? Ive decided to wait to see what the markbass one does and how much it is, as I can live with a different user preset for each song, which is easy to change, only issue is to get volume levels in each sound fairly correct. Its certainly a lot of fun, but there is a serious lack of information around. [/quote] I think that GAK are correct. with the MB one, if you want volume, you'll need a second pedal, where the SoftStep will do it all in one, and hopefully a whole lot more, as the buttons on a Softstep are dynamic and multifunctional, rather than just simply on/off switches. My challenge is not getting it working, its doing that fine, but the issue is my limited (but thankfully growing!) understanding of MIDI to be honest! I think [i]you[/i] are correct with the lack of info! in the absence of manufacturer data lets try and build that here!

Absolutely you should definitely add your thoughts to the review thread. You don't need to be "a pro" (whatever that really means, other than its hopefully your main job!!) to have a valid opinion! I am not gigging much until May, when I get very busy, so have mostly been playing with mine in the studio to see what it can do, and get it set up for playing live, so am particularly interested to hear any thoughts about using it live. My main struggle is getting the MIDI control set up, as I want to use my Softstep to control both the MA and my digital desk, but it's currently beyond me! I've got it happily doing stuff for each, but when [i]both[/i] plugged in, a program change on the MultiAmp is also making channel faders move on the desk... gah! Regarding effects, the thing I have found about the MultiAmp is its subtlety, because the parameters of all the controls are so broad you can go from incredible monster over the top sounds to just subtle hints of effect, and the way you can layer the same effect in multiple slots with slightly different settings is fun to experiment with!

I love my softstep (but I have the earlier one with square buttons). Its a bit of a bitch to program, but as you say, loads more potential, bombproof, and the backlit buttons are easy to see and look very cool on stage! I need to get it set up to control both my X32 desk and the MultiAmp, so wish me luck!!

Yeah, the manual [i]is[/i] a bit lightweight, I'm afraid I have to agree with you... however, I suspect this is because new firmware is on its way to support their new midi pedal ( http://www.dvmark.it/?/products/83/multiamp_midi_pedalboard), along with further enhancements. My only foray into the "stereo" issue is that the delay effect definitely has a "stereo" parameter, which I used to see if my mono MultiAmp could support this. I have a day at home tomorrow and I'll hopefully have time to look further into this and also into the MIDI functionality..... I'll report back when I can!

I took it over to my nephew last night for him to see. He plays mainly guitar now, but still does the odd bass gig (gear mad, he gigs with a ÷13 rig). He has played with a number of guitar equivalents, including the Kemper, and he was absolutely blown away by the MultiAmp. He was amazed at how "analogue" it feels, and in two ways - not like a modelling amp at all. He thought the sound was warm and analogue, but more importantly how easy it was to quickly turn it on, twist a couple of knobs and dial in a great useable sound. He's absolutely right, and it is probably the most important thing I missed in my review!!

[quote name='molan' timestamp='1428231957' post='2739318'] Interestingly, to me anyway, I found simply using the SWR setting with compressor sounded so nice I found myself just using that for a while without adding other options - just a really nice core tone straight out of the box! [/quote] I have found the very same! Conveniently each of the amp models has a "Flat" preset, so it is really easy to start building, but I have to agree that the simple addition of compressor to most of these results in great core tones. I particularly like, well, most of them really, but I agree with the SWR and I also really like the RB700 too... very smooth.

Here is my review:- http://basschat.co.uk/topic/259385-markbass-multiamp/#entry2739295 I'll add more as I can think of anything!

I think bass players fall into two categories when it comes to gear. There are those who like to use lots of tech and often use bigger pedal boards than most guitarists, then there are the players who will have a tuner and possibly a compressor, but will then mostly keep their rig nice and simple. Given this review, it may surprise that I fall into the latter category. I don’t use lots of gear and I prefer to keep things simple, but I do also find myself being asked to do something in my function band, at a dep or in studio where I could have done with some distortion, chorus or a completely different rig to give a more valve-y overdriven or soulful sound. With my old setup that left me a bit exposed sometimes and I resorted to one of several multi effect pedals I have used over the years but with no great love, satisfaction or worse, a disappointing muddy or “digital” sound. So to me, the MultiAmp represents a truly “All in One” head and effects rack which, with a choice of cabs, will allow me to turn up and create pretty much any sound/feel required. The hardware There are two versions of the Bass MultiAmp; I chose the mono version. In both cases the input is a single mono input. The mono version has a single power amplifier, running the same as a Little Mark III and all the standard Combo amps, providing 300w at 8 Ohm and 500w at 4 Ohm. The stereo version has [i]two[/i] of the above, and can also provide a choice of output settings to give a stereo output, a bridged mode providing 1000w at 8 Ohm, or a Bi-Amp mode. The fronts of both the units are identical, but some of the menu options differ. From left to right we have a single mono input with a pad switch, allowing you to select between -6, 0 +6 and +12dB. Along the bottom row there are the same Gain, Low, Mid-Low, Mid-High, High and Master pots you would find on all Markbass heads. The only difference is they are infinite, with the levels of these shown by a ring of red LEDs, as the parameters can all be stored. Along the top row there are three amp model buttons, defined as “Solid State”, “Tube” and “Vintage”. There is an independent “Phones” level control and there is the reasonably sized monochrome LCD display. To the right of the display there is the power switch, a 3.5mm headphone out socket, an SD slot and eleven buttons for the menu system. On the rear of both units is a “Speaker Out” section, a pair of left and right line outputs, with a pad switch providing -10 or +4 and a ground lift. The ¼” jack outputs are unbalanced, the XLR are balanced and these can be configured in the system menu to allow you to select the DI path between “End of chain, Post Amp EQ or Pre Amp EQ’. You can also configure the output level and whether the Cab Simulation is on or off. There is a USB port for the Win/Mac programming tool, a MIDI in/thru, and an effects send/return loop. I have connected the XLRs to a desk and, unless I have missed something, the mono version provides the same output signal on each, where the stereo version will provide a stereo image and stereo effects. Using the MultiAmp The display is selectable between the lists of various presets available and, once a preset is chosen, a set of eight “slots” is shown, each of which can be turned on or off independently. The only slot that is fixed is Slot 8, which can only be used for the Cab Simulation. Every other slot can have [i]anything[/i] put in it, including multiples of the same effects. The only rule is you can only have one Amp (a bit obvious really!), but this can be [i]anywhere[/i] in the signal path making it incredibly versatile. So, the process of building a customized patch starts with selecting the amp model and which slot you want it in. Using the scroll keys, find an appropriate slot and pressing the “Slot Select” button, after which you are presented with a choice of functions, the first of which is the amplifier. Using the amp model buttons you choose the amp type you want and each of these has a selection of amps (probably!) as follows:- Solid State: Big Bang (Markbass) Little Mark III (Markbass) T-Green90 (Trace Elliot) RB7Hundred (Gallien Krueger) Tube: TTE 500 (Markbass) Blue ’70 (Ampeg SVT Blue Line) Red ’96 (SWR Redhead) TWval115 (Ampeg B15) Vintage: Bassface ‘59 (US) (Fender Bassman) UK120 (Orange OR-120) JMayor (Marshall Major) Sunny US (Sunn) I say “probably” because there is nothing in writing anywhere on the Markbass website or in the documentation to support this but it’s probably a reasonable guess! You confirm your selection using the scroll keys and the “Enter” button, and then you use the standard level/tone controls to set it up as you wish. You then do the same for any effects or functions you may wish to add to any of the other slots. The parameters for each slot can then be configured by selecting the slot and pressing the enter button. Some of the amps also have further options which are shown in the same way including, for example, the VLE/VPF filters for the LMIII/Big Bang and the “Colour” for the TTE500. The effects currently available are:- B-Tubemarker B-Drive 21 T-Chorus MB Chorus/Flanger Ninethy Phase Reverb Delay Volume Pedal Noise Suppressor Send/Return Parametric EQ MW Octaver Super Synth Compressore Envelope Filter Pitch Shift This includes all the MB effects, a bunch of others, a volume pedal and the ability to patch and switch the effects loop. The MultiAmp allows you to store up to five banks of 128 presets, 640 in total, which can also be saved onto an SD card to back up or have additional libraries. There is now a Mac/Win programming interface available which I have been playing with today:- [attachment=188582:Underbridg.png] [attachment=188583:Chorus Oct.png] Like most it is fairly self-explanatory, with the eight slots taking most of the screen – not big on fancy graphics but all the controllability there, available and simple to use. It has a neat feature that you can drag and drop the slots if you wish to modify the signal chain order, though you will need to find yourself a Male A to Male A USB cable to connect to the MultiAmp, rather than the usual “printer cable” style, but I easily found a choice of lengths in Maplins. In a live situation the MultiAmp can be controlled from the front panel or using MIDI (I don’t know any detail and don’t quote me, but I have also heard a rumour that there may be a dedicated MB pedal in development. The DVMark guitar version is already available on their website). The MIDI implementation is an area I have not yet done too much with, but the demo MultiAmp at the LGBS was configured with a Keith McMillan SoftStep, which facilitated patch switching, toggling effect slots, volume pedal, tap tempo and a mute/tuner. I already own a SoftStep which I use on my Behringer X32 desk, so am going to start by uploading the configuration MSL have given me and take it from there. The build quality of the unit is exactly what you would expect from Markbass. This kit is built, like all other MB kit, for producing high quality professional sound and trust me, it is in a completely different league to any modelling multi-effects pedal I have ever used (and as said before I’ve been through a few!). The software is very quick with no latency at all that I can detect. It all feels very warm and natural and the amp models are incredibly high quality; it is all very quiet when your instrument volume is off. There is a high degree of controllability to all amps/effects, from almost un-noticeably subtle to utter madness. The platform is very actively being developed; it is one of around six different models of MultiAmp if you include the guitar versions in the DVMark range and the list of features had already grown when the v2 firmware became available, including some additional effects and significant improvements to the MIDI functionality. At the London Bass Guitar Show the MultiAmp generated a lot of interest. There was a mix of people who looked at it and either got it immediately, or said “nah, too complicated for me”. I do completely get both views, but…. While I would agree it [i]will[/i] take a couple of hours of sitting down and pre-configuring, I am not finding this at all difficult or complicated. There are those who will want to set up hundreds of patches and optional configurations but I won’t be doing that myself. I am already most of the way to programming a selection of basic patches for each of the amp models I know I will use, with a selection of useable effects in each. So is it good value? If you are happy with one sound and no effects then possibly not. If you want the versatility of a choice of amps and a quiver of high quality effects, in a simple to use “all in one” rack mountable box, then I personally think it makes complete sense. Though predominantly with studio based technology, guitarists have had a broader choice of similar multi-functional products for a good while now (the DVMark Guitar MultiAmp is proving very successful in that market too), but this is a different concept for many bass players. Having led the lightweight gear revolution, for which my back will be ever grateful, I see this as the next and very logical development.

[quote name='lojo' timestamp='1428223867' post='2739180'] Thanks, wonder where all the amps are that didn't sell, no stock at any of the stores I'd go to... [/quote] Thats because they all sold! I think I had the last one and believe MSL are currently waiting for delivery of new UK stock. I am just about to post my review, so hope that helps your decision!

[quote name='lojo' timestamp='1428222601' post='2739161'] Who was doing this deal mark bass or a dealer? [/quote] The deal was put together between MSL, the UK distributor, and the dealers who were at the show, at a price of £749

[quote name='dood' timestamp='1427884363' post='2735356'] The details online are pretty sparse. I'd love to know what effects are actually on board the Multiamp. I think for the in-ear user this could be a really nice piece of gear. One box does it all?? [/quote] OK, so the amps are:- Big Bang LM3 T-Green90 RB7Hundred TTE500 Blue '70 Red '96 TWval115 Bassfass '59 (US) UK120 JMayor Sunny US Effects:- B-Tubemarker B-Drive 21 T-Chorus MB Chorus/Flanger Ninethy Phase Reverb Delay Volume Pedal Noise Suppressor Send/Return Parametric EQ MW Octaver Super Synth Compressore Envelope Filter Pitch Shift I really do think that for the majority of us, one box [i]does[/i] do it all, and if not quite all, then the ability to have send/return to add the missing bits. I'm told there is a very active ongoing development plan in progress, and new features will keep emerging. As will a fuller review from me, hopefully on Monday!

It has every single MB built in (along with all the other "usual suspects"!) , and the "flat" LM3 patch is indistinguishable from an LM3, with all the same control. I am particularly enjoying the TTE500. I'll do a fuller review later in the week, and anyone in the Devon area (I'm near Honiton) is most welcome to come and have a play if interested...

OK, so this is an old thread but as good a place for an update as anywhere! I now have my new rig, which, after lots of playing around comprises:- MultiAmp Mono Traveller 121h Traveller 151p With the new firmware, the MultiAmp is simply sensational. Soooo many sounds, and the quality is absolutely incredible. The interface is very straightforward once you get used to it, and the MIDI implementation is now really good, I can change patches and add effects with my Keith McMillan Softstep. I had originally intended to have 2 x 151p's but as I had the opportunity to play with a few different combinations, I think this is the most flexible setup, as I have never got on with 10" speakers, and the 12 gives a lovely balance of tight and warm but the horn fills in the higher frequencies nicely. It will allow me to choose a single cab setup if less power needed and a couple of different voicings. I did my first gig with it on Thursday, but I have to say I was not really in the mood to be too bothered about anything very much, as I found out just minutes before going on that my beloved Patterdale Terrier Alfie had died during surgery. He was only 5, it was a horrible and totally unexpected shock, I am still in bits. When I have some time this week I shall spend some positive, distracting time having a good play around and setting up some user presets. I am also happy to do a proper review if anyone is interested?