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• Review

As on the previous two Tonelab units, the effects are fed into the signal chain in a way that imitates real-life applications. The pedal effects are placed before the amp models, while the delay, modulation and reverb modules come after the cabinet model.

The connection order of the three stereo effects modules can be changed, too - all six permutations are possible, and the order can be set independently for each patch. An external signal chain can also be connected to the LE via the insert send/return jacks, and can also be independently incorporated into any patch by pushing the button by the pedal effect selector.

Further tweaking is just a click away. Next to the amp model selector is the small cab button. Pushing this allows you to change the cabinet model by means of the first value knob (this would normally adjust the amp gain). By pushing the amp and cab buttons simultaneously, you can then adjust the sensitivity of the noise reduction circuit.

The Tonelab LE's outputs can be connected in stereo or mono, and the amp/line pushbutton offers a choice of tonal compensation presets, designed to suit a range of amps or monitoring systems. For maximum flexibility, the 'Ln2' setting adds a global three-band EQ to the output stage.

Sounds

We're already familiar with the basic Tonelab sound palette, and the LE has the same great range of amp models. As usual, the factory presets are a bit overblown, with too much reverb masking the quality of the basic amp tones.

If you decide to demo one, do spend some time listening to the amp/cabinet models in isolation, as this is where you'll find the real charm of the Tonelab LE. The highlights are still the squishy overdrive and tightly focused mid-range of the Vox AC15 model, the UK Blues model (turn everything up full for best results!) and the Black 2 x 12 model, but there's plenty more on offer.

That's not to dismiss the effects, though. The Vox-Wah, U-Vibe and Treble Booster are perfect for retro fans and there's a great selection of overdrive and distortion effects. In our opinion the extreme metal distortions are less convincing than the low to medium-gain overdrives. It's usually the other way around with all-in boxes, and that fact alone will win the LE many friends.

Like its larger brother, the Tonelab LE has a lot more stereo (post-cabinet) effects than the original Tonelab. We're particularly impressed by the reverbs, especially the spring, plate and garage settings, although it's a shame there's no option for using the spring reverb as a pedal effect for twangy rockabilly or early Van Halen moments.

Our only concern about the LE's sound is the rather low output. Even with the output level control and the individual patch levels at the max, the unit still seems considerably quieter than other similar products.

The logical layout is particularly appealing; if you've previously been reluctant to use multi-FX units because of the rows of blinking LEDs and complex editing procedures, the Tonelab LE is just the thing for you.

With a broad range of amps, effects, a built-in tuner and that 'real' feeling expression pedal, the Tonelab LE meets the needs of gigging and recording guitarists in return for minimum brain work. It's also great value for money.