Unlike others--I find it noisy.
This can be compensated somewhat by tweaking the controls--but it takes over the sound too much.
I bought it primarily because it was on sale (because it was discontinued) and also because I could get a chorus sound and a phase shifter sound--after I got a JC-60 amp and a phase shifter, this went into it's box & rarely comes out.
Reliability/Durability:
It is sturdy--I've dropped in several times, and it still works.
Ease of Use:
It is easy to use, and fun to play around with for the sounds.
The manual is helpful.
Mine has not been upgraded, modded, etc.
Customer Support:
n/a
Overall Rating:
I prefer the BF-2.
This one is noisier than a BF-2, and the size is a drawback to carrying it around--especially since I would only use it on a song or two as the flanging sound takes over, and that's all you hear--it's noisy.
It was fun when I first got it and was experimenting with effects--but when the novelty wore off and the reality of the noise hit me--well that was a let down. So in answer to the question-"Does it help you make music, or does it get in the way?"-it gets in the way.
The best thing about it is the adapter. I use it for my Boss DF-2.
I'd have sold it, but the best offer I ever got for it was barely enough to replace the adapter. So it would have been like selling it for 10 or 15 dollars--which is depressing.
Of all the gear I've ever bought, this is the one I regret buying the most.
