One-hundred percent made in the USA, KSR’s VESTA preamp brings forward incredible amp tones that only require a cab or IR to sound fantastic. I’ll address the sound more, and later on (also check out the included demo), but let’s look at what the VESTA offers first.
VESTA has three-channels: Clean, Crunch (Rhythm) and Lead. Once hooked up (basic in and out via the rear), there are three bypass modes – True Bypass, Buffered Bypass and Clean Bypass. If choosing Clean Bypass, then you get the clean preamp, which you switch to Rhythm or Lead by disengaging the Bypass footswitch (clicking on the Rhythm/Lead footswitch merely alternates which is active and ready AFTER releasing the Bypass). Both Clean Bypass and Buffered Bypass show an LED light, as do the Rhythm/Lead channels (no light for true bypass, which tells you it is active). Each has its own color, e.g., blue for rhythm and purple for lead, which provides a good visual aid when playing live.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMKTP86tIr4
The Clean channel sounds very Fender-like and good on its own if you want a clean channel; however, it also makes for a great pedal platform if you wanted to run other preamps or pedals accordingly. This channel is bare bones, with a Volume and a Frequency Notch Filter (EQ), but it sounds solid and respectable. The Rhythm and Lead channels share a similar set of controls, although each channel is different – and I really like this feature. Often, two-channel preamps are nothing more than the same circuit, whereas you alter each channel to sound ‘somewhat’ different (quite often it’s nothing more than how much gain, boost or how you tweak the EQ that makes the difference). Conversely, VESTA’s Rhythm channel is tighter and more aggressive, to cut through the mix, whereas the Lead channel has more compression, fullness and singing quality – which still sounds good for rhythm work, but certainly lends itself to melodic and single-note playing.
As indicated, each of those channels share the same controls, which I’ll address. There are the usual Volume (with a lot of headroom!) and Gain knobs. With Gain low, this rhythm is still pretty thick and meaty, although it can be tamed via a guitar’s volume knob. I find the sweet spot is between 10 and 1-o’clock, but even with the Gain cranked, and this is true of both channels, it still remains surprisingly defined and clear, unlike a lot of hi-gain pedals that sound over-saturated, muffed or muddy once the gain pushes past 1-o’clock. The EQ on both channels have an excellent, usable range. Even when pushing the EQ, the bass does not get muddy, the midrange does not honk, and the treble does not shrill.
And then we get into the sculpting aspects, again, common with both channels. The first is the BRIGHT switch, either on or off, perfect for zeroing in on dark or bright amps, cabs or IRs. Next, is the FEEL, which governs how much bottom end vs. tightness you want. There are three settings: 1) switch down = most thump with bass/low-end presence; 2) switch up = more low-end punch; and 3) switch center = tightest. Finally, the MODE switch offers these possibilities: 1) Up = Classic British crunch 3-gain stage tone from the 70s/80s; 2) Down = Vintage high-gain common in the 90s; and 3) Center = a thicker 90s tone with more gain.
Overall, there are a lot of tone variation among these two channels, whether you choose to use Rhythm for backing or lead, and the same with the Lead channel (in the event you prefer the sound qualities of that channel for rhythm). The nature of the preamp’s gain/distortion is relatively the same for both channels, but how they respond can be very different. Coupled with the EQ, there are a lot of possibilities, from sizzling scoops to big and massive sounding. In fact, I did not multi-track (the same notes) in my demo. I did include multiple tracks for guitar, but each track was a different recording. (I find it a bit devious when reviewers layer 2-3 tracks, and sometimes with a V-capo/octave blend, to suggest that is how a product sounds, and then when you get it, it sounds far thinner.)
Sound-wise, VESTA is very impressive, with a very amp-like response and quality when doing nothing more than going direct to a cab or IR. It has a thick growl with a ‘brown sound’ quality, yet a bit more beastly and modern. Although the VESTA sounds ‘modern,’ it has a familiar voicing and reminiscent of late 90s Metal pushing beyond it 80s counterpart. And yet, there are enough knobs and switches that the VESTA can be tamed for more traditional Rock.
Hookup is very basic, with an in/out via the rear, but also a remote access for separate foot control. It requires only 200mA, which means any basic power source will suffice. It can be used directly with a cab or IR (direct recording or PA), but it also can be used as a separate sound module for an amp’s clean channel. I think this is key, as many may like their Marshall, Randall or whatever amp they’re using, but may want a different flavor by driving the VESTA into an amp’s clean channel. This would provide another two distorted channels and without having to break the bank for a new amp. I don’t say this lightly, as many preamps are not quite as full-sounding as full-blown amps, but the VESTA holds its own, with a warm, growling response and detail. At $399 USD, the price is reasonable, competitive, and definitely in the ballpark for any serious player looking for quality sound options.
KSR Vesta Preamp (demo/review)
A forum for discussion of all things guitar!
Moderator: KVR Moderators (Main)
KSR Vesta Preamp (demo/review)
2023-10-10T12:21:50+00:00
One-hundred percent made in the USA, KSR’s VESTA preamp brings forward incredible amp tones that only require a cab or IR to sound fantastic. I’ll address the sound more, and later on (also check out the included demo), but let’s look at what the VESTA offers first.
VESTA has three-channels: Clean, Crunch (Rhythm) and Lead. Once hooked up (basic in and out via the rear), there are three bypass modes – True Bypass, Buffered Bypass and Clean Bypass. If choosing Clean Bypass, then you get the clean preamp, which you switch to Rhythm or Lead by disengaging the Bypass footswitch (clicking on the Rhythm/Lead footswitch merely alternates which is active and ready AFTER releasing the Bypass). Both Clean Bypass and Buffered Bypass show an LED light, as do the Rhythm/Lead channels (no light for true bypass, which tells you it is active). Each has its own color, e.g., blue for rhythm and purple for lead, which provides a good visual aid when playing live.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMKTP86tIr4
The Clean channel sounds very Fender-like and good on its own if you want a clean channel; however, it also makes for a great pedal platform if you wanted to run other preamps or pedals accordingly. This channel is bare bones, with a Volume and a Frequency Notch Filter (EQ), but it sounds solid and respectable. The Rhythm and Lead channels share a similar set of controls, although each channel is different – and I really like this feature. Often, two-channel preamps are nothing more than the same circuit, whereas you alter each channel to sound ‘somewhat’ different (quite often it’s nothing more than how much gain, boost or how you tweak the EQ that makes the difference). Conversely, VESTA’s Rhythm channel is tighter and more aggressive, to cut through the mix, whereas the Lead channel has more compression, fullness and singing quality – which still sounds good for rhythm work, but certainly lends itself to melodic and single-note playing.
As indicated, each of those channels share the same controls, which I’ll address. There are the usual Volume (with a lot of headroom!) and Gain knobs. With Gain low, this rhythm is still pretty thick and meaty, although it can be tamed via a guitar’s volume knob. I find the sweet spot is between 10 and 1-o’clock, but even with the Gain cranked, and this is true of both channels, it still remains surprisingly defined and clear, unlike a lot of hi-gain pedals that sound over-saturated, muffed or muddy once the gain pushes past 1-o’clock. The EQ on both channels have an excellent, usable range. Even when pushing the EQ, the bass does not get muddy, the midrange does not honk, and the treble does not shrill.
And then we get into the sculpting aspects, again, common with both channels. The first is the BRIGHT switch, either on or off, perfect for zeroing in on dark or bright amps, cabs or IRs. Next, is the FEEL, which governs how much bottom end vs. tightness you want. There are three settings: 1) switch down = most thump with bass/low-end presence; 2) switch up = more low-end punch; and 3) switch center = tightest. Finally, the MODE switch offers these possibilities: 1) Up = Classic British crunch 3-gain stage tone from the 70s/80s; 2) Down = Vintage high-gain common in the 90s; and 3) Center = a thicker 90s tone with more gain.
Overall, there are a lot of tone variation among these two channels, whether you choose to use Rhythm for backing or lead, and the same with the Lead channel (in the event you prefer the sound qualities of that channel for rhythm). The nature of the preamp’s gain/distortion is relatively the same for both channels, but how they respond can be very different. Coupled with the EQ, there are a lot of possibilities, from sizzling scoops to big and massive sounding. In fact, I did not multi-track (the same notes) in my demo. I did include multiple tracks for guitar, but each track was a different recording. (I find it a bit devious when reviewers layer 2-3 tracks, and sometimes with a V-capo/octave blend, to suggest that is how a product sounds, and then when you get it, it sounds far thinner.)
Sound-wise, VESTA is very impressive, with a very amp-like response and quality when doing nothing more than going direct to a cab or IR. It has a thick growl with a ‘brown sound’ quality, yet a bit more beastly and modern. Although the VESTA sounds ‘modern,’ it has a familiar voicing and reminiscent of late 90s Metal pushing beyond it 80s counterpart. And yet, there are enough knobs and switches that the VESTA can be tamed for more traditional Rock.
Hookup is very basic, with an in/out via the rear, but also a remote access for separate foot control. It requires only 200mA, which means any basic power source will suffice. It can be used directly with a cab or IR (direct recording or PA), but it also can be used as a separate sound module for an amp’s clean channel. I think this is key, as many may like their Marshall, Randall or whatever amp they’re using, but may want a different flavor by driving the VESTA into an amp’s clean channel. This would provide another two distorted channels and without having to break the bank for a new amp. I don’t say this lightly, as many preamps are not quite as full-sounding as full-blown amps, but the VESTA holds its own, with a warm, growling response and detail. At $399 USD, the price is reasonable, competitive, and definitely in the ballpark for any serious player looking for quality sound options.
CoolGuitarGear
https://www.kvraudio.com/forum/memberlist.php?mode=viewprofile&u=478912
-
CoolGuitarGear CoolGuitarGear https://www.kvraudio.com/forum/memberlist.php?mode=viewprofile&u=478912
- KVRist
- Topic Starter
- 180 posts since 15 Nov, 2020
Post by CoolGuitarGear » Tue Oct 10, 2023 12:21 pm
Post Reply
1 post
• Page 1 of 1
Jump to
- The Main Forums
- ↳ KVR Studio Manager
- ↳ KVR Experts
- ↳ Getting Started (AKA What is the best...?)
- ↳ Instruments
- ↳ Effects
- ↳ Hosts & Applications (Sequencers, DAWs, Audio Editors, etc.)
- ↳ Guitars
- ↳ Mobile Apps and Hardware
- ↳ Soundware
- ↳ Samplers, Sampling & Sample Libraries
- ↳ Hardware (Instruments and Effects)
- ↳ Modular Synthesis
- ↳ Sound Design
- ↳ Production Techniques
- ↳ Music Theory
- ↳ Computer Setup and System Configuration
- ↳ DSP and Plugin Development
- ↳ DIY: Build it and they will come
- ↳ Music Cafe
- ↳ Sell & Buy (+Special Offers, Deals & Promos)
- ↳ KVR Developer Challenge 2023
- ↳ Everything Else (Music related)
- ↳ Off Topic
- ↳ Off Topic Classics
- Official Company Forums
- ↳ 2getheraudio
- ↳ accSone
- ↳ Acon Digital
- ↳ AcousticsampleS
- ↳ AcousModules
- ↳ Agitated State
- ↳ AIR Music Technology
- ↳ AMG
- ↳ Ample Sound
- ↳ Antares Audio Technologies
- ↳ Apisonic Labs
- ↳ apulSoft
- ↳ AriesCode
- ↳ Arts Acoustic
- ↳ Arturia
- ↳ Audjoo
- ↳ AudioSpillage
- ↳ Audiority
- ↳ Best Service
- ↳ Big Tick
- ↳ Bitwig
- ↳ Controller Scripting
- ↳ Blue Cat Audio
- ↳ Cherry Audio
- ↳ CWITEC
- ↳ Embertone
- ↳ energyXT
- ↳ Eventide
- ↳ Expert Sleepers
- ↳ forward audio
- ↳ Future Audio Workshop
- ↳ FXpansion
- ↳ g200kg
- ↳ Harrison Mixbus
- ↳ HG Fortune
- ↳ Homegrown Sounds
- ↳ HoRNet Plugins
- ↳ Ilya Efimov Production
- ↳ Image Line
- ↳ Impact Soundworks
- ↳ Indiginus
- ↳ Insert Piz Here
- ↳ Ju-X
- ↳ Kirk Hunter Studios
- ↳ Kirnu
- ↳ Kong Audio
- ↳ Krotos
- ↳ Kuassa
- ↳ KV331 Audio
- ↳ LennarDigital
- ↳ Les Productions Zvon
- ↳ Liqube Audio
- ↳ Loomer
- ↳ LVC-Audio
- ↳ Maizesoft
- ↳ Manytone Music
- ↳ MeldaProduction
- ↳ Mellowmuse
- ↳ MIDIMood
- ↳ moForte
- ↳ Mozaic Beats
- ↳ mucoder
- ↳ MusicDevelopments
- ↳ Tips & Tricks
- ↳ MusicLab
- ↳ MUTOOLS
- ↳ New Sonic Arts
- ↳ NUSofting
- ↳ Oli Larkin Plugins
- ↳ Orange Tree Samples
- ↳ patchpool
- ↳ Photosounder
- ↳ PlugInGuru
- ↳ Polyverse Music
- ↳ Precisionsound
- ↳ Premier Sound Factory
- ↳ Psychic Modulation
- ↳ Realitone
- ↳ Resonance-Sound
- ↳ Reveal Sound
- ↳ Roger Linn Design
- ↳ rs-met
- ↳ S3A: Spatial Audio
- ↳ SaschArt
- ↳ Smart Electronix
- ↳ sonible
- ↳ SonicBirth
- ↳ Sonic Reality / eSoundz.com
- ↳ Soundiron
- ↳ SPC Plugins
- ↳ Sugar Bytes
- ↳ TAL Software
- ↳ Tokyo Dawn Labs
- ↳ Tracktion
- ↳ u-he
- ↳ u-he Linux support
- ↳ United Plugins
- ↳ VAZ Synths
- ↳ Virharmonic
- ↳ Wolfgang Palm
- ↳ xoxos
- ↳ XSRDO - SynthCraft
- ↳ ZynAddSubFX
- Site Stuff
- ↳ Site Stuff
- Archived Forums
- ↳ AlgoMusic
- ↳ easytoolz
- ↳ Elevayta
- ↳ Hollow Sun
- ↳ Kazrog
- ↳ LinPlug
- ↳ Muse Research and Development
- ↳ Shuriken
- ↳ SoHa Sound Design
- ↳ Soniccouture
- ↳ Topten Software
- ↳ Tweakbench
- ↳ Valhalla DSP
- ↳ CK Modules & VST
- ↳ Sennheiser AMBEO
- ↳ Muon Software
- ↳ Westgatesounds.net
- ↳ Squaredheads
- ↳ Sonigen
- ↳ CFA-Sound
- ↳ Back In Time Records
- ↳ Livelab.dk
- ↳ Skytopia
- ↳ audioD3CK
- ↳ Inspire Audio
- ↳ Krakli
- ↳ Drumdrops
- ↳ Futucraft
- ↳ OverTone DSP
- ↳ RaXnTraX
- ↳ solar3d-software
- ↳ Signaldust
- ↳ Soundemote
- KVR Forum index
- All times are UTC
- Delete cookies