Hi Joel
I have the Zoom G3, G3X and G5, Halls echo.
The main difference between th G3 and G5, is the fact that the G5 has a boost function with tone control, which comes in handy for live work, this boost has a tube valve, which is supposed to give a warmer sound. This feature do not work when recording.
All the units can be used directly for recording.
I have the G3 in my live board, mainly because I need space for other pedals as well, and it sounds very good.
I enclose a recording with the G5.
Guitar straigth in to the G5, no other effects, echo vox longtom 1, directly from G5 to the PC/audacity, no EQ or other effects added.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QbNOOzSKiAregards Niels