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Description

Unleash your inner guitar hero with the Zoom G2.1Nu, a powerhouse multi-effects pedal that packs a studio's worth of sound into one portable unit. Perfect for both budding guitarists and seasoned pros, this pedal boasts an impressive library of 83 diverse effects, from distortion and modulation to reverb and delay. Whether you're chasing classic tones or crafting your own unique soundscapes, the G2.1Nu has you covered.

Crafted with the modern musician in mind, the Zoom G2.1Nu doubles as a USB audio interface, turning your practice sessions into pristine recordings with ease. The included Cubase LE 4 software lets you dive straight into multi-track recording, while the pedal's intuitive design and bright display make on-the-fly adjustments seamless. Guitar icon Steve Vai has even contributed 20 signature presets, offering you a taste of his legendary sound right out of the box.

The Zoom G2.1Nu doesn’t just stop at effects; its built-in expression pedal gives you dynamic control over volume and effects, allowing for expressive performances. Plus, with the option to save up to 200 patches, you'll have all your favorite sounds ready at your feet. An onboard drum machine with 40 rhythm patterns and a 5-second looper ensure that practice never feels monotonous. Whether on stage, in the studio, or in your bedroom, the Zoom G2.1Nu is your all-in-one musical companion.

Key Features:

  • Multi-effects pedal with USB recording interface
  • 83 total effect types
  • 20 effects presets by Steve Vai
  • 200 total patches (100 user, 100 preset)
  • Built-in expression pedal and auto-chromatic tuner
  • Onboard drum machine with 40 rhythm patterns
  • 5-second sound-on-sound looper
  • Includes Cubase LE 4 recording software
  • Compatible with Mac and PC
  • Runs on batteries, AC adapter, or USB bus power
Guitar World

Guitar World

Zoom G2.1Nu Effects Processor

Video thumbnail for Zoom G2.1Nu Effects Processor by Guitar World

Zoom G2.1Nu Effects Processor

Guitar World

Guitar World

Video thumbnail for Zoom G2.1NU Guitar Multi Effects Pedal by DV247 Music Store UK TV

Zoom G2.1NU Guitar Multi Effects Pedal

DV247 Music Store UK TV

DV247 Music Store UK TV

Video thumbnail for Zoom G2.1Nu - Summer NAMM 2010 by Sound On Sound magazine

Zoom G2.1Nu - Summer NAMM 2010

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Video thumbnail for Zoom G2.1nu Guitar Multieffects Demo by Guitar Gear Spot

Zoom G2.1nu Guitar Multieffects Demo

Guitar Gear Spot

Guitar Gear Spot

Video thumbnail for ZOOM G2.1NU REVIEW CLEAN OVERDRIVE DISTORTION DIRECT TO SOUNDCARD REAL SOUND, UNPROCESSED DAW by RS GUITAR OFFICIAL

ZOOM G2.1NU REVIEW CLEAN OVERDRIVE DISTORTION DIRECT TO SOUNDCARD REAL SOUND, UNPROCESSED DAW

RS GUITAR OFFICIAL

RS GUITAR OFFICIAL

Video thumbnail for ZOOM G2.1nu Guitar Multiple Effects & USB Inteface Pedal Demo by Guitar Gear Spot

ZOOM G2.1nu Guitar Multiple Effects & USB Inteface Pedal Demo

Guitar Gear Spot

Guitar Gear Spot

Video thumbnail for Zoom G2.1NU Guitar Processor Sound Patches Demo by Guitar Gear Spot

Zoom G2.1NU Guitar Processor Sound Patches Demo

Guitar Gear Spot

Guitar Gear Spot

Video thumbnail for Zoom G2.1Nu guitar effects processor obliterates other products, new studies find 1/3 by davecooper360

Zoom G2.1Nu guitar effects processor obliterates other products, new studies find 1/3

davecooper360

davecooper360

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Zoom G2.1Nu.

Features and functionality

  • Using the Zoom G2.1Nu as a computer interface allows direct recording but lacks the XLR input for microphones, limiting future recording options.

    Source
  • The Zoom G2.1Nu can be configured from a PC, providing an advantage over older models without such software integration.

    Source
  • The Zoom G2.1Nu struggles with convincing tube-like tone emulation, especially for overdriven sounds through headphones.

    Source
  • The lack of cab sims or impulse responses is a noted drawback when using the Zoom G2.1Nu with headphones.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Successful integration requires downloading Zoom drivers and setting the input to Zoom in the DAW for seamless operation.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for guitar-only recording setups, potentially making additional audio interfaces like the Focusrite Solo redundant if no mic input is needed.

    Source
  • For a more tube-like experience through headphones, users recommend effects units that emulate mic and distance configurations.

    Source

User experience

  • The unit's complexity can be managed by focusing on simple effects initially, then gradually exploring advanced features like DAW integration.

    Source
  • Owners note that achieving a good tone with the Zoom G2.1Nu requires patience, as initial attempts may yield only average results.

    Source
  • Owners report that achieving a satisfying tone with headphones is challenging, as direct output bypasses the speaker, a crucial component of the sound.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users find the Line-6 HD300/400/500 series offers better sound quality and ease of configuration compared to the Zoom G2.1Nu, despite higher costs.

    Source
  • The Boss GT-3 is highlighted as an alternative, offering analog effects, which some users prefer over digital.

    Source
  • Users suggest newer effects units like Helix or HX Stomp for better headphone sound quality due to superior emulation capabilities.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • At approximately $100 (Australia), the Zoom G2.1Nu is considered a cost-effective option for those seeking multi-effects and audio interface capabilities.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Zoom G2Nu/G2.1Nu review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Zoom G2.1Nu offers a versatile and affordable solution for guitarists seeking practice, gigging, and recording capabilities. This pedal shines with a wide range of sounds and straightforward editing, making it easy to customize patches. Its dual functionality as a USB audio interface enhances its appeal for recording directly to a computer. However, some users may find the bypass feature, which requires pressing both footswitches simultaneously, a bit cumbersome. Despite this minor drawback, the solid build quality and extensive tonal options make it a commendable choice for both beginners and seasoned players.

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3.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 8 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
parhelia_0000

Not bad for starting out, but PROCEED WITH CAUTION!

Back when I started out playing guitar, I had no idea with regards to what kind of effect pedals to use. I needed something that could give me an all-in-one package without having to spend too much money for a starter multi-effects unit.

The Zoom G2.1nu is a simple multi-effects processor that works on an up/down preset configuration, similar to how a Boss ME-25 functions. And I'll be honest, there's a lot to be desired from it - you can't reconfigure the order of your effects, the parameters for amp sims are limited, and to be honest, the high-gain amp modelling sounds sucked. The Bogner amp sims sounded truly underwhelming at best. However, I will commend Zoom for making a better version of the Metal Zone than the original Boss MT-2.

The QC on this unit, however, is questionable. Back in the early 2010's when I started out, it was just less than a year of usage when this unit started to malfunction. The knobs started acting up to the point where I just couldn't change the parameters directly from the processor. I took it to the store and the repair techs told me that it was no longer repairable as the replacement knobs are no longer produced.

The pros? The modulation and pitch effects, as well as the delays, are very well-made. For a simple effects unit, it's not a bad starting point. However, the developers at Zoom could've made this unit a lot more durable.

Final verdict: it's not bad for a self-contained starter unit, but proceed with caution. This unit is definitely NOT gig-worthy, so unless you plan on just using this for rehearsals and private practice sessions only, DON'T BUY IT!

idrmarcos

Excellent for start.

It is a very complete and versatile multi effect pedal. When you just start and you don't know what sound are you looking for, it works great. But the overdrives and distortions are very synthetic. On the other hand, modulations and post effect like tremolo, echoes, chorus, etc... are very complete and have a good quality. I personally use dedicated affect pedals for overdrive and distortions, like BOSS or Dunlop. When I need post-effects or modulations, I just connect my G2.1nu behind the pedals for get the sound that I'm looking for.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dave Mustaine uses Zoom G2.1Nu

Dave Mustaine

Singer, Guitarist

Metallica

...
Verified via reverb.com

This Zoom G2.1 Nu is Owned by Dave Mustaine, frontman for the legendary metal band Megadeth.

Why bring a dozen pedals to the gig when you have everything you need in a single enclosure? This unit from Zoom is a killer way to experiment with all sorts of effects ranging from distortion and wah to various modulation options. Dave was such a big fan he put his signature stamp on a later model.

See how Jun Senoue uses Zoom G2.1Nu

Jun Senoue

Guitarist, Composer

Crush 40

...
Verified via mixi

Jun Senoue posted a photo of his Zoom G2.1Nu on his mixi profile.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Zoom G2.1Nu, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Fender Frontman 10G
Fender Frontman 10G Combo Guitar Amplifiers
1
Gibson Les Paul Standard Classic 2002
Gibson Les Paul Standard Classic 2002 Solid Body Electric Guitars
1

Community setups

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serinaofficial

serinaofficial

Gear IQ 89

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