BETTER VALUE? Boss ME-80 vs Zoom G5n Guitar Multi Effects Processor Comparison

Marshall Amp 1:40
Mesa Amp 6:28
Bogner Amp 11:11
Vox Amp 15:06
Cab Simulators 20:59
Fender Amp 22:40
Acoustic Simulators 28:37
Signal Chain 30:14
Other features 30:39
Buy online:
Boss Me-80 Guitar Multiple Effects Pedal Bundle Package (ME80)
www.musicbliss...
Zoom G5n Multi-Effects Processor with SCG-5 Soft Case and Zoom Adaptor (G-5n) Package 1
www.musicbliss...
Zoom G5n Multi-Effects Processor with Original Zoom Adaptor (G-5n) Package 2
www.musicbliss...
Equipment Used:
Electro Harmonix 44 Magnum Power Amp
Orange PPC212 w Celestion Vintage 30 Speakers
Ibanez RGAIX6U
MXR DC brick Power Supply
Shure SM57
Audio Technica AT2035
Audient ID14
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[@MusicBlissMalaysiaTV]

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[@user-sb3wh3dd4v]

Thank you for this clear and logical comparison. From experience with both units I should add a couple of things that few others know or mention. ZOOM uses 24 bit 96 kHz processing internally. The AD & DA conversion is the same for both units: 16 bit, 44.1 kHz. However, once the signal is converted within the ZOOM products, the higher bit rate delivers vastly greater dynamic range and 96 kHz processing makes models more realistic. Another thing that is often overlooked: Noise. ALL zoom products have a very low noise floor; over -102 dB ! That's as good as the best Carl Martin pedals, as good as many AVID plug ins and superior to most of high-end studio hardware. And since ZOOM was the first company to use an internal side chain for sensing guitar signal both before and after distortion circuits, they have the best internal noise gates. That is the same type of noise gate used in the Decimator and newer EHX units. Do not let Decimator fool you. They may have some tenuous patent, but they did not invent side-chain triggering of limiting amplifiers. Audio engineers ( like me) have been doing that for decades, long before the digital era. Another great fact to know: ALL the ZOOM products use the same high-quality converters and internal processors, regardless of model or price point. That means that even if you buy ZOOM's cheapest pedals, they will have the same quality of internal processing and low noise floor. The ZOOM business model is logical. They use the SAME super fast HQ chips for most ( if not all) their digital products. Therefore their engineers do not have to relearn the idiosyncrasies of every damn new chip that comes along. That means they spend less time & money in R & D, which brings the cost down. Another good thing about using the same chips: they buy in BULK to get big discounts. That's why ZOOM products ALL have great sound, low noise and bigger bang-per-buck. Although I love the ME 80 for its simplicity, ruggedness and permanent visible knobs, the ZOOM is a clear winner for realistic models, dynamic range and low noise. The low noise might not seem like a big deal until you want to record. THEN it becomes THE central issue. Certain BOSS branded effects can only be found in the BOSS line, but except for peculiar special effects ( like Tera Echo and other MDP effects) all of those can be imitated or done better with a flexible effect chain once you know how. As you point out, the BOSS may be a better choice for beginners who do not know how to organize a signal chain. It also might be a better choice for those who just hate tweaking or prefer immediacy over flexibility. Some "shoe-gazer" types prefer the creative aspect of instant tweak-ability too. For them, the ME is a better choice. But the higher end ZOOM pedals are not difficult to learn, and are even quite intuitive with practice. Overall, they provide far more realistic models, lower noise, better dynamic range. Tonally, we have A-B'd the Zoom pedals against Eleven rack, TC Nova pedals, POD 500x and even the new Helix. With very few exceptions, those who played the units in blind-tests prefer the ZOOM models. There is one area where TC electronic and Digitech reveal themselves as superior. Reverbs. Some of the TC reverbs rival the legendary Lexicon reverb algorithms that Digitech ( Harmon) now owns. But those subtle nuances are only apparent in detailed high-quality recordings with acoustic instruments. In any LIVE setting or in any LOUD ROCK mix, all the BOSS and ZOOM reverbs are just fine. Anyway, sorry to bore you with this little treatise, but since you were the first decent comparison I've seen so far, I thought some of your more dedicated viewers might appreciate the experience and insider knowledge of an old pro. Like its parent company Roland, BOSS built its reputation for high quality dependable products, especially Boss Pedals. They sound good. They're super rugged and last for many years. But like Roland, all Boss products are overpriced in today's global markets with overseas manufacturing. Boss is leveraging its long-held reputation for a higher profit per unit. Whereas competitors must deliver greater value at all similar price points. Thank you again for providing the fairest and most rational comparison I've seen. My intent with this tedious lengthy comment is to help you educate your viewers. I have NO affiliation with any of the companies I mentioned. But I DO have about fifty years pro audio engineering experience. Everything I mentioned can be fact-checked, and I encourage you to do that! Also, I am not selling anything, so I think a few people will find this information useful.

[@jorgesuarez8445]

Great men ! awesome

[@shigekigaming2777]

thank you so much for providing a detailed information.. this is really a great help!

[@abhishekabraham4107]

Thank you very much! Looked every where for such a comprehensive review. And it's hidden here in the comment section.

[@alfredoarredondocastillo7007]

Just thak you

[@nazmoking3171]

Great details - all helps to explain why the Zoom sounds more realistic. I have the 3gnx now and will be switching to the 5 for recording.

[@UtoyOnWheels]

I don't like the factory presets of the G5n. It's better if you make your own tone and I really love it. I was a BOSS guy and had a variety of the ME series but then I tried a G3Xn and fell inlove with it. Ended up trading my ME80 for a G5n. NO regrets. Period!

[@DiwDPU]

Geoffrey Saniel me too g5n factory presets are suck haha but own presets after edited are sweet

[@hotrodguitar1]

Came to check out the processors, left wanting that Ibanez.

[@Shred_The_Weapon]

Not me, hotrodguitar1. Ibamez models may be decent, but after all the ones I was surrounded by in the 90s, I would sooner take a Rogue.

[@mohitjoshi3959]

Same here

[@johnpike5836]

apples that look different than oranges that taste the same. I went with the ME 80, no regrets.

[@richardbirch6965]

I have the G5n and am very familiar with the ME80. I can sum this up very simply. If you want to use this for gigging, the ME80 is much, much easier to use. Essentially it's just a collection of individual Boss pedals. If you want more dynamic and authentic tones, more options, and something with good amp models and distortions, then you want the Zoom G5n. Now, don't be too impressed by Zooms claims on processing power and memory. It's predecessor, the G5, was actually more flexible here and what Zoom should have done was simply give better switching options for live use and leave the rest alone. Why? Well, if you choose an amp model that takes up 2 slots, and a cab another slot. Add an EQ and that's 4 gone before you start. The looper is another two and a noisegate another slot. Believe me, these slots get used up fast and it's an awful design. I also hate having to scroll through menus to find stuff. I bought the G5n in the hope it would replace my Vox Tonelab TLSE (big, heavy beast!) or even my TLLE (bit smaller/lighter but still not light). The G5n is beautifully light and compact. But it's a bitch to tweak live. The Tonelabs may be old tech, but they sound great and are dead easy to tweak. I can select an amp model, cab model, noisegate, presence control, one modulation, one delay, one reverb, one extra pedal - and that would be all your 9 slots in the G5n. So, although you get a lot of options in the G5n it's not quite as good as it seems. On the ME80 or Tonelab, if you want to add reverb, delay, or distortion, you turn a dial and its there. On the G5n you have to find a place and allocate a place in your signal chain. So it's a royal pain in the butt if you want to tweak quickly on the fly. But, if you pre-programme it to suit your gigging set, or you're just playing at home, it's range, versatility and quality of tones is really good.

[@JosephMile]

I've owned G5 and G5N and G5N amps+cabs are lightyears better than the simple G5. They are not in the same league.

[@JeighNeither]

Uh yeah, but NO. I hate to say it, because I love Zoom, but ANYONE with a fairly healthy ear can hear the massive differences here. The Boss severely outshines the muddy Zoom. I mix audio for a living to pay my out-of-this-world NYC rent, but I guess me & the artists that pay me, could be wrong...

[@richardbirch5744]

@@JeighNeither The Zoom can be muddy but if you use the Exciter and Air reverb at the end of the chain, they come to life. There is something odd about the way Zoom set the internal EQ.

[@rasheedattarpage]

Thank you for this explanation! Helped me more than this video, im going to buy Boss cuz of gigging and easy to use 🤘🏻thank you again

[@nazmoking3171]

Both units sounds good - but the zoom sounds less like a pedal and more like a real amplifier. Thanks for doing this video!

[@guitarplayerwannabee]

I've used both. Prefer and love my G5n. Also, Zoom has continually added new effects and patches to its site for downloading since the launch of this product. Some of these have been designed by well known guitarists.

[@calebrabion]

Zoom for me. Great video. The Vox demo sealed it for me. The Boss just sounds to digital.

[@JoshNecto21]

Boss sounds wel rounded, analogish to my ears and more organic ❤️ Boss is Legendary for a reason ❤️

[@carlosrelampago2279]

Zoom G5N is the one i'm using for now. Awsome for what i need. Playing with The SM57 simulator is amazing.

[@KarlSheridan]

I used both of these units in live situations and studio recording, I can say without doubt that Zoom blows the the Boss clean out of the water in so many ways. Allowing you to add and mix affects pedals and view them on your paddleboard is a great function it sounds amazing and it’s ease-of-use is outstanding it replicates any pedal so close it’s scary compare to the boss. Choosing between one of these units the Zoom is the way to go 100%

[@Voxman5]

For live gigging although the ME80 is very much laid out like a series of stomp-boxes, which may be preferred by some, there's a big problem because it has no patch-naming facilities. It's pointless having so many memory slots if you can't recall which one is which. With the G5n if I make up a 'Led Zep' patch I can give it an easily identifiable name. With the ME80 you'd need to make up a patch list which is inconvenient to say the least. The amp and cab modelling in the G5n is a world apart from the Boss. Re comments on build quality, as we all know Boss units are built like a tank. But frankly so is the Zoom - it's in a strong metal casing and switching is very good. Re comments about noise, clearly the more effects you add in a chain (especially distortion/gains) the more noise you'll generate on any pedal but the Zoom noise-gate is effective and in this regard there's no difference between ME80/G5n - both are quiet units. The inability of the ME80 to save stomp set-ups is a HUGE failing but is consistent with its 'raison-detre' of providing a more straightforward stompbox layout. I'm a gigging player and having played both extensively, I went G5n. Core reasons were amp/cab quality, effects quality, signal chain flexibility, more amp/cab/effect models, clear LCD displays with patch-naming, looper, rhythms - it's just a better sounding and more flexible unit for my purposes. However, it's not perfect by a long way. I bought it to see if it might replace my Vox Tonelab SE & LE (purely because of size & weight issues) - these may be 'old technology' and lack many of the features and FX in the G5n, but tonally they still sound superb, are very valve-like, are easy to use with a very well thought out and easy to use layout, and are very powerful processing wise. Superficially the G5n looks as if it should be very flexible - it has (up to) 9 effect slots which you'd think should be plenty - but they aren't and here's why. In the G5n, the amp model takes up 2 slots - add a cab, and a noisegate and that's four slots before you start. In the Tonelab SE/LE all of that is fully available before you get to modulation, delay, reverb, modulation and pedal. Yes you can have multiple delays, modulations etc in the G5n whereas in the TL's you can only select one from each section, but generally I don't need more than one from each. Now, if I want to set the foot treadle to control a function, in the G5n that takes up yet another one of the nine slots. Plus the TLSE/LE gives an additional 'Control' switch to kick in an effect without having to go into 'stomp box' mode. And to get the basic amp models to sound as punchy and dynamic as the TLSE (which they can do) you need to add an EQ or Exciter. So, I'm actually running out of 'slots' in the G5n to replicate what are relatively simple patches from my TLSE - not because I'm using a lot of effects, but because things like noise-gate, cab model, amp model, EQ and foot treadle control options are taking up so many slots. And there's a further problem. When I rehearse I play my TLSE through an amp but at gigs I'll go straight through the PA. The TLSE lets you globally select either amp or line-outs which adjusts the units signal to suit (the TLLE gives you 5 output options - 3 amp output variations, a general line out setting, and a 2nd line-out which has an additional dedicated EQ). With the G5n there is no global parameter that does this. With the cab models there is a setting to switch on/off a mic simulation - mic on is like the line signal in the TLSE (it's too bright and harsh to have on when playing through an amp). But there's no global control - if I went from rehearsal room amp to gigging through the PA, I'd have to manually switch on the cab mic in each patch which is pretty useless. I'd like Zoom to add a global parameter whereby you can set all cab models on/off. In the G5n I do like: its size & weight it has a small light easy to replace PSU (the TLSE/LE PSU's are big, heavy 'industrial strength' units) that I can set a 'solo' boost on each amp model (but you have to be in stomp mode to access it (with the original G5 there was a global boost that was easy to set and kick in for any patch). Bright and clear lcd displays The top lcd display showing all the chain for each patch Pedal chain order flexibility - very easy to use Pedal position swap feature - very useful Upgradeability - Zoom are still adding new amp, cab and FX updates Easy connectibility to computer, editing programme, external device source eg mobile phone Looper (although it can't save loops - you need something like a Boss RC3 etc if you need that) 'Exciter' pedal effect Very controllable cab models that you can actually 'tune' frequency and mic position wise Rhythm patterns that you can set as needed In the G5n there is a global output boost that acts like a tube-screamer but you can't set this to kick-in globally by footswitch - This is useless 'live' as you have to turn it on/off and set the boost level manually. In the G5n I don't like: Needing EQ/Exciter to 'lift' amp modelling tones to match the dynamics/punch of my TLSE/LE Lack of global amp/line output settings Pedal control does not allow you to ease in/out amp gain - probably one of the most useful things the pedal should be able to do ...and yet it doesn't give that option. A global boost that you can't kick in globally - you have to manually adjust it. With the G5 you could set it and kick it in on any patch. Apart from the 'tap' led, none of the bottom 5 control pedals have led's- it would have been good to see some lighting (eg fibre-optic?) on the 5 control pedals as on a dark stage you can't see which does what. The up/down buttons that scroll through all the amp, cab, effect, pedal options have to be operated by hand - it really wouldn't have taken much to allow these to be foot controllable. It really doesn't have enough memory slots; you have to use up its memory slots for foot-treadle functionality, amp (2 slots!), cab & noisegate, looper uses up 2 memory slots (this was global in the G5!), and rhythm uses up a memory slot. A 7 band EQ uses up 2 memory slots! 9 slots sounds a lot, but trust me, it's NOT. And if you have the G3n/xn you're even worse off because you only get 7 slots with these. G5n has lost features that the G5 had So, can the G5n replace my big & heavy TLSE (or slightly smaller/lighter TLLE?) - I really, really wanted it to but I suspect the answer is probably going to be 'no'. It's a really great value MFX pedal that offers a lot of bang for buck, but although its functionality and switching options are hugely superior to its G5 predecessor, the designers still need to do some work to make it more practical for use by gigging players. They really need to sit down with gigging players to understand what the important stuff is, and what's just 'frilly' stuff.

[@bradarooney]

I absolutely love my ME80 - the main reason i bought it was for ease of use - it is extremely user friendly which i think is much better in a live situation

[@srprice2383]

bradarooney The ME10 was easier and better.

[@bradarooney]

Peter Gull hmm interesting - I'll have to check out a video of it

[@LeeKirkman88]

Plug a stereo jack into the headphone socket just a dummy one with the wires cut. Makes the world of difference as it activates and cab simulation. And the quality of sound is tons better.

[@marcalving1753]

I use a Randall 4x cab,a mooer baby bomb and the me80.sounds good

[@seventh-achawngthuchawngth6222]

I use me80 but Im not satisfy with it

[@RAFADETH1]

27:50 Fuzz by Boss me80 sounds amazing!!

[@bardan885]

The sound i was looking for😊

[@tomjmail]

Great overview. I really liked the sound of that Zoom but I'm a hobby player so the simplicity of the Boss makes me lean in that direction.

[@hifly1929]

Same here but I bought zoom. Many were happy with the presets. So I have a start. Then after a while I can start tuning those to my sounds. Well well see. Think both are good products for us just need to fall on a decision. Mine was made last week. Have fun on yours.

[@lupo10]

@@hifly1929 haha now I’m trying to make the same choice 😂

[@shughy1]

If only Zoom would create one with the same user experience as that lovely hands on Boss design, we want knobs and switches, not menus

[@thorpenator9148]

Thank you for all your hard work. The demo was amazing, and informative...cheers from Ohio.

[@kentbernard9842]

Starting at the Mesa comparison, the volume and EQ output changed so that the Zoom remained full 3D sounding while the Boss seemed to be thinner 2D sounding. Actually, this not the case. The Boss is cleaner and more articulate with wide sound spectrum and straight forward controls as well as computer programmable.

[@arkavagoswami3068]

very true

[@PrantikNath]

is zoom not comuter programmable?

[@kevinsteele7232]

ZOOM G5n kills the BOSS as a practice tool: longer looping time with undo/redo, quantize and count-in option; drums/rhythms; stomp mode display shows the entire effects chain; loads more amp and cab sims; more reverbs (ME80 is totally deficient in this respect); more effects options overall. ME80 might be better live (I don't play out), but I guess if you set up your patches the G5n offers an almost infinite ability to switch during a performance.

[@Valdetron]

Yes, but me is multieffect, nit processor. It would be correctly to listen this zoom vs boss gt 100

[@zigmeekane4361]

In the end all that matters is how you want to play and sound like.. It's really helpful to get all these comparisons and reviews, which gives us the basic ideas.. But, I believe that in the end its all about you and your sound... And a bit of a budget!!

[@marcomiguelceciliotansingc2157]

Excellent Video! You just made me subscribe! Cheers from the Philippines!

[@keyceecarandang7020]

ano binili mo bro hehe

[@johnhendricks8140]

Great demo both the ZoomG5n and boss ME80 sounds great. Your playing is superb

[@diegoferreiradossantos8469]

wowww, the zoom finaly wim !!!! this is the first time that zoom makes me look serius. it realy better. and the systen are amazing

[@pragyannath]

Diego Ferreira dos Santos even the 20$ zooms are really good

[@krynauwend3609]

I am really grateful for this video, Thank you brother. I cant believe I am saying this but I prefer the overall sound and feel of the Zoom pedal.

[@gregkeen4907]

The Zoom certainly sounds far superior in every way.

[@darryldoesit966]

love this video as i do ALL your videos. I own many floor units and always cool to hear you review them. i own the boss me-80 and a zoom g11 now too, Great comparison by you. All floor units are unique, and all brand names too so never expect any of them to sound similar. I love to hear and watch you play guitar, you are an amazing guitarist. Thanks for all you awesome reviews !!!

[@theimpetus4992]

BoSS win I think it give better sound on a live show 😍 and nice video bro

[@Toyex14]

i love the sound of the Boss ME80. bought it recently and super satisfied.

[@unknownuser31792]

The M80 is old, but honestly, i like it more.

[@moe45673]

Great video and you're a killer guitar player! I'd like to say that you can switch the Manual mode on the ME-80 so that switching to it will keep the settings from the Memory mode, only you can turn each effect on and off. The downside is you'll have to reference what your pedals are set to externally since the knob positions will be meaningless in this mode; but nonetheless, it still gives you that "multiple pedalboards with individual stompbox" thing you like in the G5N. I own an ME-80 and I've been able to get some killer tones out of it, listening for its strengths and minimizing its weaknesses. I would do the same had I bought a Zoom but I love the physical knob layout of the Boss. Oh, one more thing: while the Boss signal chain is fixed, the effects actually jump around depending. So if you set the Modulation to Phaser, it will actually move to before the Amp in the chain. Likewise the Boost on FX2 will move to right before the OD pedal. All this can be verified in the Boss software you can use the ME-80 with! I am not saying the ME-80 is better than the Zoom. What I am saying is that if you realize what it is and does, it's actually pretty excellent. If I had any experience with the G5n, I would likely say the same thing.

[@booshting3520]

I have had the ME80 for a few years. It's a great versatile unit, let down by underwhelming high gain sounds. The delays and modulations are quite nice. The Zoom didn't seem any better. More to tweak, but ......

[@alexanderdeclercq982]

I just got the ME80 as a Xmas presant, i already have a custom pedalboard that cost over a grand, my mom didn't know this. It's pretty cool though.I now have massive choices for effects. My custom Board: Boss TU-3 (tuner), Ibanez TS-9 Reissue, Wampler plexi-drive, Boss PQ-4, EHX Grand Canyon, T.C. Electronics HOF2

[@giorgioIP]

Spoiled white kids be like

[@kobeo.1887]

@@giorgioIP how do you know if he's white? Or a kid?

[@accentontheoff]

How do you find the sound quality of the M80 compared to traditional analog pedals.

[@bartosz9991]

I have Boss ME-80 for few years. It was great idea to buy it. Great sound (l'm only little disappointed about od/ds section), easy to use in any situation. Great to learn sounds and types of guitar effects. The only thing I miss in manual mode is ability to assign the propriate effect l want to each button individually. Mostly I play on my tube amp and I don't use 2 buttons (per amp and od/ds). It would be fabulous opportunity to change them to other effects and ability to use all buttons. Also It would be nice to have more than one knob for reverb adjustment. Last thing, I miss the lack of the 4-th knob for some effects like they have originally as stomp box. It's great tool but with all this things it would be a perfect guitar multieffect.

[@mr.nobody68]

First time in my life I've ever found a comparison video of two items I'm actually comparing and thinking about buying. I'm into cars so I'm always looking at parts comparisons. Ya need tools to fix and build cars so, comparisons for that. Comparisons for welders... Comparisons for guitars, amps, TVs, record players, DVD players, daily drivers, you name it, I've probably tried to find a comparison. Never in my life have I ever once found two items that I'm actually trying to compare. I just want to cherish this moment... Aaaaaaand it's gone. That was nice while it lasted. Thank you very much. This guy can play some really nice bluesy flavored leads with a really great vibrato when he wants to. Good Rock rhythms, too. I think the amp comparisons are great but unfair as they're not modeling the same amp. It's like comparing green apples to yellow apples when everybody knows red apples taste the best. The G5n amp modelling kicks so much ass over the ME-80 amp modelling. I've got a PRS MT15 but, it's nice to know both of these can get some really killer amp sounds. Plus, I know they're going to sound way better through a tube amp than going into a damn DAW and ProTools and shit like that. Plus, the G5n looks like it has a way more intuitive and user-friendly layout whereas the knobs and menus scrawled all over the ME-80 look like any NASA representative's worst nightmare. The pedals on the BOSS unit look really easy to fuck up on a dark stage as well. Or any time you're in the heat of the moment and feeling the music. Whoops! Tapped the upper and got the lower, too. Clumsy shoes! 😂 I've been an MXR/Dunlop guy for a while but, since they don't seem to offer multi-fx units, I kind of had some high hopes that the ME-80 would take me back to being a BOSS guy. Plus, it's a well-known brand with a good reputation. Zakk played BOSS pedals before he switched to MXR so, if it's good enough for him, it's gonna be good enough for me. IDK who the hell makes the G5n. What if the unit has problems and the company goes tits up? Are they a reputable company? Do they stand behind their shit? What's their warranty policy? Come to think of it: What's BOSS' warranty policy? I'm not sure about the 5 LCD screens on the G5n either. Is that shit road worthy? All of a sudden, the BOSS layout that would befuddle any NASA rep looks pretty enticing. At least you won't have to worry about 5 freakin screens to crack. Anybody with a smartphone knows how easily the screen can get busted. I'm halfway into the video, and I can see pros and cons for both units. I was really hoping this would be more one-sided. I wasn't really hoping it would go one way or the other, I just wanted one to be better. Ok the cab sim on the ME-80 is just fucking stupid as fuck. Why should you need to plug in a headphone adapter for the cab sim? That's just plain idiotic. Whomever had that idea, should be fired with great haste and extreme prejudice for their utter stupidity. Does anybody know if you can use either of these units strictly as pedalboards without the amp sims? Like I said, I've got a PRS Tremonti amplifier and, while it would be nice to have some different voices, I don't want to obtain them at the expense of my amp's killer voice. I'd like to be able to choose. Fuck. This was a really great video but, ultimately, I'm right back to square fucking one: Completely undecided.

[@monadyne]

"Does anybody know if you can use either of these units strictly as pedalboards without the amp sims? " Yeah. The amp simulator and speaker cabinet simulator are each effects in the effects chain. All you have to do is load a patch you like the sound of through headphones or whatever (where you like the effects such as overdrive, flanging, eq, etc.) then turn off the amp sim effect and the cab sim effect. Send the output cable into your amp and there you go- - your amp is doing what the amp sim and cab sim would have done.

[@molotulo8808]

Awesome playing. I own a ME-80, love it. My old DOD Tec-8 burned out so even though the ME-80 came out 8 years or so, I thought it would be the best way to go because I don't want to hassle with multiple single effect pedals (though it isn't really a hassle) and then I am committed to buy a bunch more so since I am 61 years old, I am retired and now that the kids moved out, I now have my music studio in my living room, have plenty of room; I decided on the ME-80, a multiple effect pedal, instead of a bunch of small pedals! I consider it to be an awesome unit. If you don't have Alot of money, this is a great option. You can always add more pedals if you like/have.

[@accentontheoff]

Are you happy with the quality of the audio. Thanks.

[@rickraney3939]

Great comparison brother, REAL helpful. Thanks

[@GuitarDoco]

What makes boss more expensive than zoom? This question arises from curiosity. Zoom also seems to have everything..even has rhythm patterns.

[@TheDilligan]

I think the Zoom is all plastic. Boss is all metal. I got the ME-80 for $100 by trading in a small Boss Stomp-box at a guitar center that forgot to take down the Black Friday Sale sign on the ME-80. Trade in saved me $100, sale saved me $50.

[@gomeettupoc50cent]

Metal vs plastic

[@renaldojaramillogaviria535]

@@TheDilligan Zoom was made by metal, the expresion pedal of the zoom is made by plastic. Boss is all metal. Boss has better marketing and status, that's why is more expensive.

[@lucistheband6540]

thanks a bunch for writing/doing this video. Trying to look for bang-4-ur-buck video with these 2 models and here it was on KZbin! Great job!!

[@rahilaqureshi5861]

Your playing is so impressive, I forgot I am here for comparison.

[@hellonblades]

Killer playing!

[@sebastianguerrero5488]

Boss tone studio makes me more incluned to get either an ME80 or a boss GT1. Ive been doing non stop research on affordable mulit effects units. I like the knobs and ease of use on the me80 but the gt1 offers more effects and is more modern. The zoom here sounds really good.

[@Amit-jb8vt]

Which one you bought and how is the experience?

[@FADHZILAHMAD]

im using me 25 about 2 years as my pedal efx. Now using g5n.... no regret at all!!

[@jcpangan583]

me80 is better

[@FADHZILAHMAD]

actually i want to buy me80.. but shop out of stock on that time.. no choice then i bought zoom g5n... compared my experience with my me25.. g5n is much easier to setting and explore.. plus, variety of drum type make it more fun to practice alone.

[@lovecraftmusic8717]

Many seem to prefer Zoom for its sound quality, versatility and price...and they all seem bedroom players because toying around with tons of combinations and menus it's fun and enjoyable only for the first times. Then it comes to play for real in a pub or for rehearsal and you realize how difficult is to find a proper sound and change it on the fly if needed even though you are not a beginner with efx, signal chain and routing. I think it is useless having virtually better tones (not even true imo) if you can't taking em out without going insane and loosing yourself into endless sub-menus. I had serious headaches and frustration using the zoom. I haven't played the Boss yet but it looks certainly easier to use and built like a tank. Sound wise it doesn't even seem so inferior like many claim. It is surely engineered better as you can see from the layout.

[@jazzydog]

I have Zoom G3, is a great multi effects. You will amazed with the sound quality. Cheers.

[@afifi456]

Yup agree...

[@checo3713]

That’s curious, in my band one guitarist uses the zoom and the other uses the boss

[@armyofazra1922]

Cool, you can enjoy in making them to argue which one is better. You start with the comment and get the popcorn out. They will not stop easy so it's going to be a good entertainment for rest of the band. You can film that and get some serious viewers for that 😂😂😂

[@ferkro344]

@@armyofazra1922 lol

[@ezdj]

The added drum machine is a bonus for the G5n... :)

[@PeteOliva]

Very well done video. Helped me make my decision. I've always been a Boss user but I had no idea Zoom had gotten to sounding this good. The Mesa and Bogner comparisons were honestly just embarassing. The Zoom owned this competition. I like what you mention toward the end about how you can save Manual modes. That sounds like what I need for the way that I gig. Sounds like I could save separate stompbox modes for different genres, like when I play with a metal band or a jazz combo. Thanks again for this! Zoom it is!

[@rodneyfrothingham2579]

Pete Oliva I agree with your assertions about this comparison. I have tons of Boss gear that I love. I also started using Zoom MS pedals in my mini road rig around 2013. The Zoom is far better in almost every round. I hate that we didn't hear the Boss' cab sims in every round. Boss had a box-like tone with little feel of an amplifier overall. The Zoom has many other features for practice, jamming and more options if you tweak and save too.

[@subsahara121]

The thing that is most ridiculous is if you want to buy any piece of gear you need to go to a guitar shop and play it yourself. All of these people writing crap like how do they sound - these companies have been in the business for 30 + years - listen to any clinician for ZOOM or BOSS demoing the products respectively even the low end G1 and they can make them sound amazing. Reason being is they are professional musicians and understand sound from a sound engineering perspective like a music producer would. Working with effects requires an understanding of those effects, the parameters etc. Most musicians and guitarists just buy a pedal, stomp, mfx and just twiddle and play around with the thing but not really knowing how the modules / parameters work. The Zoom is not "far better" Rodney, both units are very capable of producing very good results if used properly. Having owned and used both I can assure you there isnt much difference, and if the ZOOM is so far ahead how would the sounds be more "further ahead" of some of the BOSS sounds Alex Hutchings or other demo guys from BOSS have achieved on their official videos for this unit? Truth is - most people that post on forums or on here discussing these units are amateurs, most pro musicians, studio people or people doing music professionally value and respect all of the brands. ZOOM were neverr considered a serious player back in the late 80's or the 90's due to the fact that they were a small start up company compared to Roland and were focusing on the value segement of the market. Digtal technology back then did not have the sampling rate, bit depth or ADA conversion at the price points they operated in to deliver sounds close to analog. Nowadays all of the companies can produce gear at affordable price points whereas the difference between digital and analog is very small. The differences between a digital modeller going out into an amp that is miced up and going into PA speakers to an audience compared to a fully analog (hard to find as most pedal boards usually incorporate a form of digital reverb or delay) is really minimal these days. True if you play a guitar going direct into a valve / tube amp it can sound and feel and react a little different, but, for gigging purposes it's ridiculous. All of these units get you into the ball park - sound great if you know what you are doing and can be used in a professional situation. The only kind of person who would debate whether these are better or not are school kids, idiots in their boxers playing a guitar in their bedroom or amateurs or basically techy nerds that have GAS syndrome. The ZOOM has some benefits in that ZOOM are releasing new fx and models for their units monthly and bi-monthly - which is great, plus the unit is easier to use in scene / memory mode as the patch names are shown. For stomp mode the BOSS is better as you don't have to scroll through stomps. From someone who has had music on radio and done it professionally it's just disparaging reading all the shit you find on youtube / ultimate guitar etc where people compare these units like kids / teenagers. They are all *good*. Best way to judge is play the fucking thing in a real shop. Not here.

[@jericks06]

subsahara121 you make some very good points, and I would love to demo either of these units in a guitar shop, however, no one has them anywhere that I have called. At least they don't have the zoom G5n. I even called down to Nashville music stores and none of them carry Zoom. Several of the stores do carry the Boss GT 100, but nobody seems to carry zoom for effects pedals. So I guess I'll just have to buy one from a company that has a good return policy and if I really can't get the sounds I'm looking for out of it and there's no recourse, I guess I could send it back for 25 bucks.

[@musicobarat0]

se nota que eres un fanboy de boss pero ya murio pues zoom lo supero xd

[@The7nUp]

a Boss fan.. LOL mediocre minds follow each other ceaselessly..▬▬

[@hruaizelakisuke]

I have zoom G3X for 4 years now.... I really love it...

[@OliverCarriere]

Just got the me 90 aftar watching this awesome stuff cant wait to stack it with my tube amp

[@roninenlightened6350]

Boss sounds thin. The Zoom sounds are rich but does sound a bit muddy at times under certain settings. I'd rather go with Zoom for richness.

[@LeeKirkman88]

The Boss can sound even better if you plug in a dummy stereo jack into the record out / headphones slot. It activates the cab simulation / amp simulation according to the manual. This has a HUGE effect on sound quality. Its not brilliant without doing this.

[@MusicBlissMalaysiaTV]

Yes I did that for one of the amp types in the vid.....

[@brandonthornburg5798]

This was incredibly helpful, thank you for this. And I realize music is entirely subjective, but to my ear the Boss is HANDS DOWN a better, more naturalistic sound.

[@hevertongomes095]

To get a better sound, if it is connected to the sound table, it is advisable to use the P2 plug in the Boss Me 80. Actually with P2 it got much better!

[@PrantikNath]

whats p2?

[@AlfarAwayMusic]

sound table? live or recording?

[@havochowl6766]

For both home use and gig use, i think Zoom G5n is the better option. BOSS ME-80 does offer most boss pedal fx but Zoom G5n can sound like fx units with IR

[@pineymusiccol]

zoom comes more powerful on tecnology over last years

[@JeighNeither]

This is old news, & I hate this, because I actually really appreciate Zoom, especially their field recorders; it was the OG palm studio that first grabbed my attention with huge spacial distortions that rivaled things put in boxes 10 X's their size, BUT, & yes it's a big but... any good ear immediately notices how much better the BOSS sounds over the Zoom. I wish it wasn't so drastic but it is. Now that I"ve grown up a little, recorded a few albums, and matured my ear to appreciate the minutia, I can really pick out small tonal differences in guitar & gear, but here, that expertise is not warranted. The Boss sounds Better; much better. It's clear.

[@subsahara121]

Safe to say that most of the multi effects in terms of quality - basically all of them regardless of the manufacturer are in the same ball park quality wise. Once you've owned a LOT of gear from a lot of manufacturers it's easy to understand this, it basically comes down to features. The ME80 is cool because it can run on batteries and the stomp mode works so easily, yet the ZOOM gets a new amp and effects to download into the unit every month from the website and you can make the signal chain anyway you want.

[@GabrielNacu]

After having the pleasure to try both side-to-side, I must say the Zoom really does win this fight. In particular, the G5 overdrives and amp sims are vastly superior to the boss COSM stuff. A major buzzkill for me in regards to the ME80 was that the phrase looper actually deletes the recorded loop when you hit stop -this was not the case for the G5, as well as its excellent 2-button functionality. For just effects, I think the Boss ME80 does very well however, and I wouldn't discourage people from using it for its effects!

[@sgmarshall3]

The Zoom clean Fender sounds great, and your playing was very pretty

[@tristancoyote1131]

Zoom is good if you plan on playing by yourself, but the Boss ME-80 sounds cleaner, so it would mix better in a band without all the extra spread like the Zoom.

[@ald_ridge]

Tristan Coyote What would the difference be between G3xn and G5n?

[@Shred_The_Weapon]

Two parts: a) user friendly; b) battery operated.

[@MartyShutter]

Thank you for making this!

[@vgotnofingers]

Very informative. Thank you.

[@FretFriendGWaL]

I love your channel :)

[@MRscibile]

congratulations, extremely interesting video.

[@BenitoPaoloBondoc]

both are good.. for tech inclined musician I would get the Zoom.. so many options for Zoom.. also they did not mention that you can use it as a USB interface for recording comes with software to edit or make your own patch even download other patches.. firmware upgrades.. Boss is for the Boss! Plug it in and Go! So simple and much easier to setup..

[@timramm1]

Think Steve hillage should be demonstrating because those metal sounds are all the same to me.

[@campe_0p525]

For a live situation, which one would you recommend ?

[@akatom2u]

Great video, thank you. I own the G5n and it is fantastic once you learn how to tweak it

[@MadScienceHacksTV]

Can you comment on the Guitar Lab software? Are you now able to edit and create signal chains on your PC like you could with the G5 on the Edit and Share software?

[@rray303]

Zoom is better to be used without amp, with cab simulator. Boss with a real amp: just plug it into the "send return" section and you'll have endless effects and it's gonna be WAY more comfortable and faster to tweak them out than the zoom with those cheap displays and controls.

[@patfix]

Gt-1 vs G3Xn next? :) Great video, thanks!

[@MusicBlissMalaysiaTV]

patfix That is in fact very likely...

[@ald_ridge]

Music Bliss Malaysia What would the difference be between G3xn and G5n?

[@CrismarLampos]

G5n and G3Xn has same the sounding but the thing here is G5n has more control and more pedals to add in pedal chain. G5n has 9 while G3Xn has 7 pedals in chain.

[@markallen381]

Did you try using an acoustic guitar with this? I like using my acoustic for a very wide variety/genre of music not solely heavy metal. I like heavy metal, any metal as well, but my taste is wider and I use flat or piezo sources.

[@mohdarifarifhafizi9874]

Thanks you boss me 80

[@williansouza8372]

Video show great timbres in the two pedals my opinion liked more of the ME-80 plus the G5n is a great pedalboard congratulations ... as there are some people who gives great hug hug my brother

[@hevertongomes095]

In the first tests you did not use the P10 in Boss Me-80. Why? It seemed that the Me-80 is muffled.

[@metallica3604]

Wow the g5n really run riot over the boss here..The bossbcompeted respectably on the marshall and Vox sides(although you actually tested different amps on the marshall side) but innthe other amps there was no competition at all.

[@MusicBlissMalaysiaTV]

We were on the "Stack" amp mode on the Boss mate, which is the Marshall Plexi style amp...

[@JeighNeither]

Sorry, you've either got no ear, or you're a zoom fanboy.

[@uhc.1009]

I prefer zoom. It’s more clear on the clean tone

[@arkavagoswami3068]

boss does have a looper also..but g5n is having a bit more options n it's new so maybe getting the push for the marketing purpose

[@leandrogomes2831]

hy everybody... the zoom it's the best!... She needs a TS to push the amp! thing that ME-80 has embedded in your system. I purchased the G5n, And she exceeded my expectations... Thx

[@julzmuzik9464]

Thank you for this

[@evlblue]

Well, a kind person gifted me with a GT-1000, so I already have a great one. But I am a long time user of Boss and Zoom.

[@VisceralSin]

Great review.

[@michaelshepherd1072]

After watching a LOT of KZbin reviews and plowing through tons of commentary the consensus is pretty clearly for the G5n, which I am purchasing today for CDN340 + tax (380). My search started with an excellent review of the G2.1u over at Dave Simpson's channel and ended here. I have nothing against the Boss reviewed here, I just feel the Zoom gives me more options. I don't gig professionally, I don't record, I just want as many options as possible and the G5n seems to be able to supply that. Thanks MBM. Now that I have it & have downloaded Cubase LE AI Elements for free using the download code provided with the rig I can see that there will be a steep learning curve. My recommendation at this early point is to focus on the G5 itself & leave the steinberg software for another day. The Multi-Effects Processor itself is a big chunk of wtf. I'm thinking this will be a challenge but definitely worth it.

[@Jayell61]

@Michael Shepherd I'm new to all of this and not techy AT ALL. Because it sounds scary that many, like you, are saying big learning curve. Think I'm safer with the Boss then? Looking for opinions! Thanks!

[@michaelshepherd1072]

@@Jayell61 I'm thinking the Boss might be more intuitive and transparent to use. There are certainly defenders of the Boss and they make a good case for it on this point. I didn't have the option of trying them out in person which would be nice, if your music store would let you do that. The pedal experienced in a physical sense is better than any KZbin review.

[@Jayell61]

@Michael Shepherd thank you buddy. I think I just realized too: pretty sure the Zoom has drum machine and ME no? That might end up being my determining factor. Maybe it shouldn't be. I don't know! Like I said, easier is better for this old guy! Ha ha. Really appreciate your help! (P.S. Guitar Center is the only local store. Pretty sure they have neither to try!)

[@michaelshepherd1072]

2-unit looper. Everything is listed at ZOOM website. I purchased mine Saturday and have been playing with it non-stop. I think I made the right choice.

[@ThrasherR81]

his pickups are great!

[@brxndonthorne]

Holy shit, you’re an amazing player.

[@yourwish4923]

Zoom g5n or mooer ge 200 ?? Anyone

[@Hagchtogow]

How is it possible to find the Boss better than the zoom in this video ?!! Can't understand.

[@Hagchtogow]

I just have one Boss, a good looper in fact 😀

[@joshdvd]

fanboys

[@Shred_The_Weapon]

Despite the (arguable) misrepresentation of the Mesa Boogie sound, my inclination remains with the Boss ME, in terms of sound generation. It would be worth having this one and inserting the dummy plug. This is after having owned an earlier Zoom processor, loved the sounds/effects and disliked the interface. Plus, this one runs on batteries. All I would miss in not being able to switch around the signal chain is the possibility of sticking a phase shifter after a delay. Not a major loss.

[@toddlampron5799]

Dummy plug makes ALL the difference!

[@hellonblades]

I so agree!

[@dustybustmuff]

What is the dummy plug? I was gonna plug this straight into my 6505 head and mesa cab.

[@snotbog]

look closer the only way to save on the me 80 is from the manual mode

[@teacher5376]

Simple control, and easy to setting. All the best .....fast crossing ...plays.mode

[@debmalyadutta4453]

i am very confused which to buy zoom g5 xn and bose me 80

[@JL-yu2uu]

and... what is your final decision after this weeks? I have the same trouble 😅

[@keyceecarandang7020]

same here

[@AlexFrezCorrea]

I end up buying the G5n and I don't regret it

[@unlockthetunes3945]

Great review...which sounds better for you?

[@MusicBlissMalaysiaTV]

For someone who has used Boss products for years, the Zoom surprised me. Pretty good tones, and rather natural as well.....

[@souvikmitra6198]

which one will be better boss GT 1 and zoom G5n

[@prasannaraj2602]

Gt 1

[@nightvisionproject6818]

G5n

[@rustyhandz1]

yes you can save the manual mode settings just have to know how i have a me 80

[@joeprogrock]

Great video, thanks and great playing as well.In most of the cases the zoom appeaser to sound better in terms of clarity except near the ens where you plug in the plug on the Boss for the cab sim and then it sound somewhat similar to the zoom. Why do Boss make it inconvenient by having to plug in a dummy plug, why not a switch?

[@adrianavellojulio2725]

I have a boss Eband JS-8 and now buy Zoom G5n, for me G5n is very easy an intuitive to use (i have a ms50g too), but i think the boss patches are better, the factory patches from zoom are not so good. the other important think is boss have more amp simulations.

[@billcompeau4835]

Do you find the Zoom to be noisier???

[@SuperDK21]

As a simple player I like the simplicity of the boss but when it comes to versatility and price zoom wins. Hahaha I really don't know what to buy.

[@mireyagrey2686]

Would you go for this Zoom or the Ampero Hotone?? In Terms of sound?