Vocal effects pedals are just like guitar effects pedals, except that they are tailored specially to handle the frequency range of human vocals. With a vocal effects pedal, you can alter and shape the vocal, and you can also apply various effects to create a unique sound. Many settings and effects can be easily controlled just by hitting the footswitches.
So, you are now confused in choosing between Boss VE 20 and Digitech Vocal 300. Both are popular vocal effects pedals that many people use for live performances. The two are usually available in a similar price range. They are pretty affordable, but they can already give you great effects. Besides, the primary reason people consider these two voice effects pedals is their simple and intuitive interfaces, which allow the vocalists to control them on the fly conveniently. So, how do Boss VE 20 and Digitech Vocal 300 compare against each other?
Contents
Boss VE 20 vs. Digitech Vocal 300: Design
First of all, let us see the dimensions of these two voice effects pedals. Ideally, a good voice effects pedal that is going to be brought along to places and gigs should be compact and lightweight enough. Boss VE 20 measures 6 13/16” x 6 1/4” x 2 1/4”, and weighs 2 lbs 7 oz with batteries. On the other hand, Digitech Vocal 300 measures 13” x 8.5” x 2.25” and weighs 3.76 lbs. As you can see, Digitech Vocal 300 is quite bulkier and somewhat heavier. So, if you are looking for something that is compact, lightweight, and portable, Boss VE 20 may have the better edge here. You can see also Boss VE-20 Vs VE-2.
Honestly, Boss VE 20 is quite a simple machine. The interface is simple and straightforward. There is a pair of mini footpedals with some indicator light inbetween, several function and control buttons, a control knob, and a backlit alphanumeric display. Such simple interface ensures that a non-technical user will be able to use it, too. The red metal housing is very strong and sturdy. It will be able to withstand heavy-duty usage and abuse.
On the other hand, Digitech Vocal 300 features quite a more comprehensive interface. It has a purple metal housing, which is also very rugged and durable. On the right side of the device, you can find an integrated expression pedal. There is a one-line alphanumeric display screen (well, the display actually consists of fourparts, the green parts show the current effect and the red part shows the current patch number). Under the display screen are several control knobs. Finally, there are three footswitches at the bottom that allow you to control three parameters at once. It brings more control and flexibility, but non-technical people may find it a little bit too complex.
Boss VE 20 vs. Digitech Vocal 300: Features
Boss VE 20 may seem like a simple machine, but it has been packed with nice features. It features two input options, which are ¼” TRS phone type jack and XLR type jack. The XLR type jack is already equipped with +48V phantom power. So, you can easily plug any mic directly to it. This is a great advantage that will allow you to set things up more easily. There are two XLR type output jacks for L/Mono and R channels, and there is also a stereo ¼” phone type jack for headphones. Boss VE 20 even comes with a built-in looperthat records in mono for up to 38 seconds.
Digitech Vocal 300 features a balanced XLR input and an unbalanced ¼” line input. There is also a 3.5 mm TRS CD input. For the output, it has a balanced XLR jack, a stereo ¼” TRS jack, and a 3.5 mm TRS connector for headphones. However, there is no built-in looper.
Boss VE 20 vs. Digitech Vocal 300: Powering Options
When choosing a voice effects pedal for live performances, you need to carefully consider what kind of powering methods that the device uses. Is it fine to rely solely on power outlets? Or should the vocal effects pedal have batteries for backup?
You may have your own needs and preferences. If relying solely on power outlets is fine, then choosing Digitech Vocal 300 wouldn’t be a problem. This model has 10 Watts power consumption, and needs to work with a power supply. On the good side, the power supply is included in the box.
Boss VE 20, on the other hand, is a little bit more versatile in terms of powering. It can be powered by an AC adaptor, which is included in the bundle. However, if there is no power outlet available, you can still operate it using six AA batteries. You can use either carbon-zinc or alkaline batteries.
Boss VE 20 vs. Digitech Vocal 300: Effects
Digitech Vocal 300 actually has an impressive library size. It comes with 38 fully programmable effects, and each effect can be customized further by tweaking the 4 parameters. There are 8 reverb types, delays, chorus, vibrato, strobe, whammy, and pitch shifter effects. In addition, it comes with 40 factory presets, and you can make up to 40 user presets. However, some of these effects and presets are not really useful.
Boss VE 20 comes with harmony, reverb, delay, and pitch correction effects. There are also special effects such as distortion, radio, and strobe. The dynamics effect is nice, as it sweetens the sound. In general, the effects quality is better. The effects here sound cleaner. It is also packed with 30 built-in factory presets, and you can make up to 50 user presets.
| Boss VE 20 | Digitech Vocal 300 | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | BOSS Audio | DigiTech |
| Key features | - Bundle Includes Microphone and (2) 20' XLR Cables! - Specialized effects for vocalists, including Harmony, Double-Track, Dynamics, Reverb, Delay, and more - Create the total of 3-part harmonies and layers | - 7 Effects at Once - Balanced XLR Input and Outputs, 1/4" TRS Stereo Line - Output, Line Input - Built-in expression pedal - 40 User, 40 Factory Presets - Power Supply Included |
| Price | ||
| Customer Ratings* | 4.6 out of 5 stars | 4.7 out of 5 stars |
| Best Deal* | Save Money Please click here | Save Money Please click here |
NOTE : Product prices, availability, ratings and save money information are accurate as of the date/time indicated on post time (as seen right bellow the tittle) and are subject to change. Any price, ratings, availability and save money information displayed on Amazon Site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Decision
Digitech Vocal 300 can benefit a user who knows how to handle an effects processor. The interface allows for great, flexible control. On the other hand, Boss VE 20’s interface is relatively simpler. Still, it has the better overall value for the money, considering that the effects quality is better and there are more built-in features. The phantom power is really practical, allowing you to plug in almost any mic directly. It can be battery-powered, too, which means that you can still use it even without an available power outlet.