"Keep Looking--this is not an essential."

Feature:
This lacks three essential features: 1 - an on/off switch; 2 - optional battery operation--this is AC only, including a power cord that might be an invitation to ground loop hum and a wall wart transformer/plug; and 3 - no cd with essential software is included in the box That said this has other features which merit a solid 10. Dual XLR outputs so this can function, not only as a DI box, but as a stereo DI box. This also has dual 1/4" outs for L/R stereo to two amps instead of using a TRS jack and using a cheesy "Y" cord. USB output for use recording to a computer and for uploading downloading patch edits. X-Edit software so patches can be developed and stored on computer.

Quality:
Solid construction. Metal chassis/frame. While the switch pedels are plastic, I don't "stomp" on them. A light tap is sufficient to change the setting. The 1/4" jacks have locking collars (like on a guitar amp). The more cheaply built Alesis and Behringer boxes lack this.

Value:
All in all, it's a good value for the money--but not a great value.

Desirability:
This is not a must-have item. There are other, equally well-made items out there from other manufacturers in the same price range.

Sound:
I rate this a solid 8. I think it sounds better than Alesis GuitarFX but I find it somewhat lacking when it comes to using an acoustic-electric. Granted this is not "designed" for use with an acoustic-electric, but Digitech, since removing its DOD branded AcousticOne and AcousTech multiFX boxes from the market, has steadfastly ignored this segment of the market--a segment Alesis, Zoom, Korg and Boss have not ignored. The workaround to dealing with piezo "quack" is to select the acoustic simulation (to roll off some of the high end) and then add some low end EQ on the EQ setting. This would probably get higher marks if Digitech would come out with some units specifically voiced for acoustic-electric guitars.

Ease of Use:
I graded this down for one simple reason: When I first purchased this, I plugged it into my computer to use X-Edit for editing. I made the mistake of trying to edit it using the onboard knobs and proceeded to cause the device to shut down with the equivalent of a fatal error crash. I fault DigiTech for not placing a warning in the owner's manual to avoid the situation. Contacts with their customer support indicate they were aware of the problem before it even hit the market. Bottom line--if you have this connected to your computer to use X-Edit for editing patches, don't use the knobs on the unit itself to change any settings.

Support:
This is where I give low marks to DigiTech for these reasons: 1 - the previously cited omissions from the owner's manual. 2 - lack of clear instructions on the website on how to download necessary software upgrades. To access the site, one must enable her/his computer to accept cookies. Those who are security-conscious and have cookies disabled on the browser will not be able to connect and the website does nothing to inform them in advance of this requirement. 3 - those using computers running the new Vista edition of Windows will not be able to use X-Edit. Almost six months after it was released and they have not addressed the issue of compatibility.

Overall:
Not being a professional musician, this is a long-term commitment for at least 5 years or so or this wears out--whichever comes first. When that time comes, I will be looking at other units--probably will not be buying another one of these. If this was stolen, I would probably write a thank-you note to the person who took this off my hands--providing the person didn't steal anything else.