Fractal Audio Systems has announced the new VP4, a compact virtual pedalboard processor that provides four simultaneous effects with a user-friendly experience inspired by traditional electric guitar pedals.
The compact multi-effects unit features effects based on the award-winning Axe-Fx III, comprising hundreds of classic stompbox and studio effect models. They include drives, delays, reverbs, choruses, flangers, phasers, pitch and the company's own Plex Delay, plus EQs, compressors, wah, tremolo and many more.
The VP4 has four foot switches, with classic on/off switching that makes it intuitive to use like four traditional pedals. In addition, the VP4’s factory default “Gig Mode” switching system places presets, scenes, effects, channels, tuner and tap tempo at guitarists’ feet.
The unit has 104 presets, each with your choice of four effects, allowing a single VP4 to replace a collection of effects. Additionally, each preset has its own noise gate, master EQ/levels and more. Connect up to two expression pedals — such as Fractal Audio’s EV-1 and EV-2 — or switches for real-time control of effect settings. The VP4 also employs the company’s latest pitch detector from the Axe-Fx III and features a dedicated large display guitar tuner mode, plus a handy mini-tuner that’s always visible.
The VP4’s connectivity is comprehensive and includes mono/stereo analog I/O, with unity gain an ultra-low noise floor, and a 4CM Mode that allows you to divide effects in front of your amp and in its loop. Other features include buffered analog bypass, SPDIF digital I/O, MIDI I/O, and USB audio/MIDI capabilities.
For those who want to go beyond a basic pedalboard, the VP4 supports scenes, channels, modifiers and more for a highly customizable experience. Plus you can customize your VP4 with VP4-Edit, a free companion software editor and librarian. And like every Fractal Audio processor, the VP4 can be upgraded with free periodic firmware updates that provide new features and improvements.
In addition to guitar, the VP4’s multi-FX processing works with acoustic guitar, bass guitar, keyboards and other instruments.
The Fractal Audio Systems VP4 compact virtual pedalboard retails for $699 and will be available on October 15, 2024. Visit Fractal Audio for updates and to purchase or contact a Fractal Audio dealer for inquiries outside the U.S. and Canada.
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