One of the things that is ever changing for us, is technology. That is, the tools we use are ever changing. A few years ago when we had the idea to begin looping. We started with the Boss RC-20. Back then the sampling rates were fairly low and quality definitely suffered. Also, the loop times were lower. Gradually the sampling rates increased along with the loop time. Our last looper was the Boss RC-50. As we added effects our pedal board and gear grew. Not a problem when traveling by car, but when we had to go by plane we either ended up shipping the gear. Or if we went overseas we had to pack it in with our suitcases, which as you can imagine, is MAJOR pain in ye olde keister.

Recently, I re-descovered "Guitar Rig". It's a guitar effects software program that is coupled with a hardware pedal. I heard about this a few years ago, but didn't seem to be a fit for our purposes. Well in the third generation incarnation, they have added a looping effect as well as other goodies. Also, the reviews indicate that the software is very stable now. I have to say, it works great. This weeks gigs will be the first time to use it in concert and I am looking forward to seeing how it goes.  The only drawback so far is the the selector buttons make a noticeable click, so I may have to get those replaced at some point.

The best thing about it is that we have downsized from a 90lb pedalboard (with case) to a small pedal that can fit in a very small case.  The "Guitar Rig" Pedal doesn't even have a power adapter because it is powered by USB.  Super cool.