Question:
I've noticed several relatively new multi-effects pedals that model amps and advertise that you can go directly from the pedal to the soundboard without using an amp. Indeed, it sounds like these are at their best when there is no amp in the path to interfere with their models.
Does anyone have experience doing this for live worship music? How well does this work? Is one product better than another for this application? I'm thinking about pedals like the Boss GT-8, The POD XT Live, the GNX3000 and the Toneworks pedal.
What are the drawbacks?
Answer:
my experience with such things is limited, but you'll find many a fan of the POD XT around here.
Answer:
I don't know about the others you listed, but the POD series is supposed to go direct to the board. All the amp, speaker, and effects modeling are done in that unit. The only real drawback to this is that you don't have an amp onstage with which to hear yourself play. You either need to get one and have the POD run to it and the board, or get a moniter and have them crank you up in it.
Answer:
What about cheaper models that have the amp modeling, like the Digitech RP200? I've plugged it in direct and it sounded horrible...
Answer:
when i had my gnx 3 i would run 1 output direct to the board and the other output to my amp so i can hear myself. i think it sounded better running direct but thats because i had a cheaper solid state amp at the time. dont waste your money on the gnx 3000. its the same as the gnx 3 but with a usb hookup. the gnx 4 is way better for about 50$ more.
Answer:
Um, as an owner of the GNX3000, I would not say it is the same. They have updated the amp and cabinet modelling.

http://www.gnx4.org/archive/comparing-gnx-units/

There is a document that compares the different units.
Answer:
Originally Posted by Jubal Um, as an owner of the GNX3000, I would not say it is the same. They have updated the amp and cabinet modelling.

http://www.gnx4.org/archive/comparing-gnx-units/

There is a document that compares the different units.
Have you used your GNX3000 for recording on your computer? I was curious how well that works.
Answer:
I have a Zoom G2, and it sounds great for the price I paid. Of course, I could have paid more for the G7 or G9, but overall, it sounds in my opinion pretty good. Not exactly as great as the real thing, but for most non-musician hearers, it will sound good. I once considered, a POD XT Live, but the sticker price was a little much, in my opinion. I would recommend shopping around if possible and plugging them directly into a sound board if your music shop will allow to. Mine doesn't care to run stuff for people individually like that if they know you're serious about buying something.
Hope this helps,
--bravesfan