TC Nova System or TC G-Major 2

[msd]

I need some FX for my Marshall JVM!
Both have very good effects, but what are pro and cons?

Nova System (NS)
Pros:

• pedal form, can use midi to change channels on the JVM -> no need for midi floorboard
• effects from g-system

Cons:

• Less effects as the GM2
• No editor available

G-Major 2 (GM2)
Pros:

• more effects as NS
• PC editor available
• some effects from g-system

Cons:

• needs for midi floorboard -> more €€€

what do you think?
what would you choose?
Can anyone comment on the transparency of the units?

[Nigel T.]

I can only say that I have a Nova System, haven't even thought of getting the G Major as that would need a big MIDI floorboard. I got the thing for the Mod/Delay/Reverb sections and I can say that I am quite pleased with the sound from it.

[V!N]

Originally Posted by msd

Nova System (NS)
Pros:[list][*]pedal form, can use midi to change channels on the JVM -> no need for midi floorboard

For that very reason, I bought a DigiTech RP-1 in the 90's. It had the effects I wanted and could midi-switch my Marshall JMP-1.

But when I wanted something different or better after a while, I had to choose either another floor unit or a rack unit and a midi board. Trust me, with all these digital gadgets, you're always going to want something different or better after a while.
I didn't want to limit myself to a floor unit any more, just because it could switch the amp, so I got myself a fine midi board and it was a part of my setup for as long as I was a gigging musician. I've been through several midi effect units, without ever having to worry about a board again.


Learn from my mistake, a good midi board will last while the effects-units come and go. It may look cheaper now to get something that's both an effects-unit and midi board. However, if you get a good board and then replace the effects, it'll be a whole lot cheaper in the long run.

On top of that, you're also limiting yourself in a different way if you go for the one with less effects and no way of editing patches on your computer. I've wasted a lot of time on my knees, fiddling about with the RP-1 or bent over to edit patches in my rack. A computer would have made that so much easier !

Midi boards come as big as you want them to be. From just a couple of switches to a whole bunch of them with build in rocker pedal(s) or connections for external ones.

[hthomas20]

Nova system is killer man. Much better than the g major. Look up on YouTube. My friend Pete thorn does a demo of his with the tc guys on there site

search for. Peter thorn tc nova system

[lowmantotempole]

I have both units. Likes and dislikes...

Nova System likes: All in one package. Easy to program. Transmits smooth MIDI out to my JMP-1. Rugged construction. Lots of pretty lights and tap tempo flashes. Great effects.

Nova System dislikes: Mono inputs. No FX loop for adding your own effects. Slow bank changes (not presets, preset changes are dead on). Don't like having to run so many long wires back to my amp and rack (MIDI cable, Input, Stereo Out L&R). I would have liked a better distortion. Can't really get a "heavy" or "modern" rock sound with it.

G Major likes: Rack mount = less wires! YAY! Just one MIDI cable to footswitch. Stereo Inputs! Still easy to program. Easier to read display than Nova System. Same effects. Lightning fast changes are seamless.

G Major dislkies: DOES NOT TRANSMIT MIDI OUT!!! Big one for me. Not as rugged. Buttons aren't as stable. No FX loop for adding your own effects.

So there you have it. Hope that helps a llittle. I'm sure there are other things I just can't think of right now.

Both of mine are for sale as well. G Major $200 shipped and Nova System $350 shipped. I have since moved on to an Fractal Audio Axe - Efx.