Auto clean with a volume pedal

[rbc]

I was curious if anyone has used auto clean with a volume pedal? I started to figure out how the auto clean keeps the output level somewhat constant. The side effect of this is that you can get some expression out of distortion by picking harder or changing the output of the guitar. I'm using my volume knob, but a volume pedal could be used too. I'm not sure how to use it musically, but it's kind of neat.

[RockmanCentralBob]

I was curious if anyone has used auto clean with a volume pedal? I started to figure out how the auto clean keeps the output level somewhat constant. The side effect of this is that you can get some expression out of distortion by picking harder or changing the output of the guitar. I'm using my volume knob, but a volume pedal could be used too. I'm not sure how to use it musically, but it's kind of neat.

Yes, I used to use a volume pedal back in the 90's for use with the auto-clean function.
It was pretty handy for the clean -> edge transition in "Cool the Engines", and I used it sometimes for the semi-clean sections of "We're Ready".

However, on the recording of "We're Ready" that I posted, I used the Sustainor's Clean 1 channel with the Semi-Clean option engaged.
I'm really liking how that provides just a tiny bit of "umph!" and dirt on the low end while leaving the top end clean.
Especially once you layer up the tracks, that cumulative effect becomes more noticeable.

On a side note, I plugged into my XP212a last night and ran the line output through my board and Rockman cabs (for which I'm using an inline EQ to create a flat response for).
I had forgotten how great that thing sounds with the compressor bypass and Ultimatum Growl circuit engaged!
So quiet yet with SOOO much gain on tap!!

[rbc]

Yes, I used to use a volume pedal back in the 90's for use with the auto-clean function.
It was pretty handy for the clean -> edge transition in "Cool the Engines", and I used it sometimes for the semi-clean sections of "We're Ready".

Do you have that posted somewhere? I'd like to hear it if I can.

Thanks,

--Bruce

[RockmanCentralBob]

Oh, it's pretty bad!! LOL!!
But, here ya go....

Bob Martyn - 10 - Cool The Engines.mp3

[rbc]

Thanks Bob!

[rbc]

I went back to the Boston version of "Cool The Engines" (about 3:20) on the "Third Stage". I'm guessing that would be a Sustainor, or some other kind of prototype with auto-clean on the album. My understanding is that the "Third Stage" was released September 1986 and that the Sustainor was released January 1986. Anyone know if that's a Sustainor? Just curious.

[RockmanCentralBob]

I doubt it. Sounds to me like it's different guitar tracks layered up. The distorted guitar track is just faded in.

[rbc]

That makes sense. I didn't think of that.

[rbc]

Hey, would anyone suggest the volume pedals that they like? I guess I could try to find one of the Rockman branded Dunlop pedals. I'd actually prefer something un-powered, but suppose that might have some disadvantages.

Thanks,

--Bruce

[RockmanCentralBob]

I have one of the Rockman Optic Volume Pedals I'm not using... PM me if you're interested.