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Introduction
In 1979 I built a multiple effects "box". It looked like a mixer or Moog synthesizer of the era, walnut hardwood sides, aluminum face. Tons of knobs. The idea was to combine all of the popular effects of the time (fuzz/distortion, compressor, chorus, flanger, phase-shifter, pre-amp, and a mixer) into one cabinet. It did away with all of the mess of cables, batteries (it had a 110vac power supply)....a bit a head of its time. I named it the Razorgasm. It was pretty cool.
For years I have wanted a multi-effects processor that would give all the sounds I crave. After months of searching and testing I decided on the Digitech GNX4 and the Korg PX4.
Features
The Korg PX4 has something close to 120 effect combinations. It serves as a multi-effects processor, amp and speaker cabinet modeler, headphone guitar amp, rhythm machine, jammer/looper, and so forth. The presets presets are quite good. I especially like the UK'80s preset and the various guitar synth presets (synth, organ, flute).
I find the PX4 to provide excellent sound quality. I have read a few user reviews that indicated the sound quality was not adequate for studio recordings due to noise and so forth. Perhaps it is not adequate for professional studios, but it is more than adequate for home studios. The only time I hear noise, hiss, or signal degradation is through the wireless headphones. However, when connected directly to my computer's sound card, the sound is pristine. The only exception is when I am using a high gain preset and I turn my strat towards the computer/monitor--but that is a single-coil guitar pickup issue, not a PX4 problem.
Here are the PX4's specs:
| Effects | 124 types, Maximum number of effects available simultaneously: 7 |
| Programs | User: 50, Factory Presets: 50 |
| Inputs | Guitar input (1/4" jack) AUX for CD/MP3 player (mini stereo jack) 4.5VDC (AC to DC 4.5V power supply) |
| Outputs | Line/headphone (stereo 1/4" phone jack) (I use this direct into the computer soundboard or mixer with excellent results. Infared output to wireless headphones. (A bit noisy, but it works.) |
| Tuner | Detection range: 27.5Hz-2,093Hz(A0-C7), Calibration: A=438Hz-445Hz |
| Rhythm section | 39 rhythm and bass patterns 40 - 208 B.P.M. |
| Recorder: Jam / phrase looper / Phrase trainer | maximum 32 seconds recording time Two measures of click |
| Infrared transmitter | Frequency modulation type, Carrier frequency (right/left)2.8 MHz/2.3 MHz |
| Power supply | Four AAA alkaline batteries Allows 10 hours of continuous use (infrared transmitter OFF, backlight OFF) Allows 5 hours of continuous use (infrared transmitter ON, backlight OFF) Optional AC adapter (DC4.5V) |
| Dimensions and weight | 2.99"(W)x4.57"(D)x1.06"(H) 76(W)x112(D)x27(H)mm 0.31lbs./138g (not including batteries) |
| Included items | Four AAA alkaline batteries,Strap Holder |
Our Home Studio Setup
The following image shows how I have connected everything together. Click the image to enlarge it.
A Few Sample Tunes
I recorded the following three jams using the PX4 directly into my computer's sound card. I recorded all three using Pro Tracks Plus. To hear more PX4 samples and view a PX4 video,Click Here.
