I was already planning to get the IR-2 for the MDP amp models. Seeing how well it stacks up spec-wise-FX loop, best latency, 32-bit float A/D, draws less current, works as an interface, smallest, & least expensive… It’s pretty impressive.
I'm pretty sure my wife got me the Boss IR2 for Christmas.. Will try it through a GSC CP12 to see what I get. Also I got the Headrush flex prime but haven't fired it up yet.
Great video. This video made me decide on the BOSS IR-2. I was so set on the Lion but the price of the BOSS and the amount of features offer makes this a no brainer.
I'm so glad you let the notes ring out in your tests to show how driven tones decay on these units, the decay is where you can tell a lot about the real world feel of an amp-in-a-box. Great video!
I just recently discovered this channel, and I don't usually comment anything on youtube, but Leo you have a great channel and the content is amazing. Really amazing stuff, yout analysis is very deep with a great quality. Thanks for the great videos. Keep up the good work!
@@LeoGibsonGtr I've been following your channel for a while. Great way to keep up with the latest tech. Love the mix of gear shoot-outs, deep dives on specs and your original compositions.
Man, thank you SO MUCH for making this. I ordered a Lion '68 a little while back after loving the dream '65 so much. I had the Dream '65 to replace my twin reverb, but I've never played a Marshal in real life before so I didn't know how it stacked up to the real thing. I especially didn't know how it stacked up to other amp sims either - and your video really helps showcase that regardless of which one you choose, they're pretty much the same in a mix. Appreciate you dude! Keep up the good work! 😊
The Boss is not only "less expensive" its only half the price. That alone makes it stand out and the overall usability like on an ampless Board with the additional low power consumption, interface for direct recording, headphone out for practicing... is hard to beat. The choice is only hard, if money isn't a criteria.
THANK YOU! I've been waiting for a shoot-out with the IR-2. Would love to hear it against Neural and Fractal. I realize IR-2 is a fraction of the price, but I'm considering using it with effects pedals vs something like Quad Cortex.
Another great video, Leo. Thanks. About the proximity to the real amp, I found the IR2 the less close and the Lion the best. But in a song, I doubt that I would notice anything, the 3 sound good.
WOW. An EXCELLENT review. First class playing. Very thorough comparisons, without any comments or talking during the audio comparison examples (which are often distracting). Very helpful video. Thank you.
Best comparison video I’ve ever seen, especially the tone / dynamic response comparisons - truly useful information. I own the Iridium and a UA Dream. The Iridium requires a lot more fine tuning while the UA is plug and play, the latter being a big appeal but I now see more short comings of that unit. The IR-2 looks great feature wise but sounds the weakest of the three here IMO. I imagine that it’s a Katana in a pedal - which is not a bad thing.
In the mix, I literally can't tell them apart. Loved the demo song! As a player, when you do each isolated, letting the tones ring out, there are differences. They all do a very passable job and sound excellent. The Boss is a fantastic deal for the price! God bless and Merry Christmas 🎁 🎸
Thank you so much, I'm really that you like the song!!!! Thank you also for sharing your opinions and your findings!!! Yes, the price difference is pretty noticable....Merry Christmas to you too!!!
Me too...I ordered it on day one!!! First they said it will be delivered within a week...two days later I got a e-mail...."Sorry, but the IR-2 is available in 8-10 weeks"....what the f*ck, Boss!?
How exciting, my engineer brought over an Iridium and so far I like it. I still prefer my lovely tube amps though, nothing like the purity of hot tubes with analog pedals.
Great video, thanks for comparing the units and showing their features. I play mainly at open mic and jam sessions so I'll probably get an IR2, that will allow me to make a small pedal board with the IR2, an echo pedal and a maybe looper and go direct into the PA. That it runs on batteries or a standard pedal board power brick is a big advantage, set up & take down time will be a few seconds which is always helpful if you are only playing a handful of songs 🙂
Wow, thank you so much for such amazing compliments!!! It really means a lot to me!!!! Thank you for taking the time to letting me know....I'm moved...
What a intro Leo. Btw I've just tested ir-2 and compared it with my sy1000 and gt1000 built in amp sound. Funnily enough i prefer the ir-2 sound, so I'm back to stompbox market now 😅
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you like the music!!! Thank you also for sharing your findings...I have to make a direct comparison between the three....I'm very curious!!!
Thank you for a great comprehensive video. I borrowed the Iridium for a few months and I did like it but then the Lion came out and that more. However, now that IR-2 is out I want it more than the Lion b/c of the price.
Cada vez son mejores tus videos y tutoriales! La calidad y dedicación en cada detalle no tienen comparación con ningún otro canal de UA-cam. Te felicito!!!
Very useful comparison and summary of 3 great options for players. I did think that the Boss IR2 had more noise in the Test 1, sounded good but noisy compared to the others when you let the notes ring out. I have the UA Ruby and Iridium and I find that the Ruby is in a different class . Sounds and feels more like an amp. Having said that your video has reminded me how good the Iridium is so it may be coming out of the box and back on a board 😂 One tip I have for Ruby which will be transferable to Lion is to really spend some time looking at the artist and factory presets as there are different cab and mic options in there. I also found some presets with a larger room reverb than the standard ones available on the pedal, so I build my user presets with that as a base and change the amp models , cabs and settings to suit. I do know there is a preset in the Lion with a Hall reverb so you could do similar using that. It may also be worth mentioning that there is now a PC/Mac editor for Strymon Iridium called Nixie 2, means you can set the pedal up without all the unplug the power and hold down buttons while turning a dial hassle. There are also apps for Android/IOS to control Iridium but they are 3rd party with a small cost. As always, thanks for taking the time to do this level of comparison that others don’t 👍
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video and take the time to live a feedback!!!!! Thank you also for sharing your experience and findings...interesting points...I didn't know about the app for the Iridium....for sure it helps....as changing the preset with all those complicated combination of know was pretty hard: I will check out the app. Thank you so much!!!!
Never owned a tube amp but I have to say I liked the real Plexi the best. They all sound really good when played well though. Thanks for this excellent comparison Mr. Gibson.
Thank you for the wonderful comparison Leo. Im quite surprised just how noisy the IR2 seems to be... but even more surprised that it kind of makes me like it more 🙂Soon as I can get one in stock in Ireland Im definitely picking an IR2 up! Thanks again.
Fine demo Leo! I totally agree with you about the bluetooth app of the UAFX pedals, they are a nightmare, they really need to fix that soon because otherwise I will also switch to the Boss IR-2
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!! Thank you also for sharing your experience with the app and .... I totally agree with you...the experience....could be improved....😀
I own an Iridium, Quilter Superblocks US and UK. I have many real amps Blackface Princeton Reverb, vintage Gibsons and Ampegs and 1993 Matchless SC30. I think Quilter Superblocks are just as good as the high-end modelers for many applications and they are actual amps that you can gig with. Nothing responds like a tube amp or takes drive pedals as well, but modelers sound damn good and almost no one can tell the difference. The IR2 is a winner and is going to be a smash hit. Great demo. It's about appropriate tone and having something to say musically and musicianship. They are all cool tools.
my first reaction to the release of the Boss IR-2 was that they were simply following a trend, but the more I hear, my reaction is that it is a serious piece of gear in the right hands. Edit: IMO the small, concentric knobs on Boss pedals require a pincer- grip and make fine adjustments more difficult
Hi, thank you, I'm really happy that you have appreciated the video!!! Yes, it would have been nice...but adding a device....this video would have become even more complicated to do...maybe I will do another comparison in the coming weeks...
Whichever serves you best, choose it! In the end, your happiness and satisfaction is important. Thank you for this thorough and valuable review/comparison which is indeed helpful in choosing a unit. Cheers!
Thank you so much, I'm super happy that you appreciate the videos and the riff!!! thank you for taking the time to letting me know: It means a lot to me!!! 🙏🙏🙏
Thank you for the thoroughness! Honestly, they all sound very impressive. For price vs features, the Boss is very alluring - even if it is a little noisy (but that's why noise gates exists, right?!).
Cool video. They’re all great units. I was chasing a plexi sound so I went with the Lion. I agree with your points about a wonky Bluetooth experience. It’s something affecting other UAFX pedals also I think. They need to fix it IMO
I am getting the IR-2 because I'm a beginner and, where I would play, they would rather have DI. It's also cheaper than any decent amp and it has headphones, which is super important. It's also compact, has multiple Amp and Cab models so I can get a flavor of real amps so if I ever want to make that dive, it's a much easier choice. I can also play it anywhere in my house if I use headphones (and won't annoy my wife that much). Value for money is also at the top of my list and this is punching above it's weight by far at $200.
The fact that Boss IR-2 can be battery powered makes it a great device to keep on the shelf for night practice or to be kept in the bag for gigging. This makes it really stands against his competitors. Iridium tone/specs wise is killer, but the Boss is cheaper and more complete overall. It might be less accurate tone wise, but everything it’s just a pale mimic of the real deal as you can not compare headphones experience with 4x12 one
What stood out to me was how much hum the IR-2 has, seems much noisier than the others. Some of its high-end tones were pretty shrill too. Great to be able to hear them all back to back.
If I just wanted one great amp, I would go with UA, if I wanted a bunch of them and I needed an audio interface, the Boss is a crazy good pedal. If I need midi..well we have the Strymon. I have my HX Stomp, so I am fine.
Thank you for the detailed comparison Leo! I love the harmony vocals in the track. I own the Iridium and my girlfriend owns a Boss ME90, we will be buying an IR-2 soon. Your videos have been very helpful! I do wish that Strymon and Boss would include a basic parametric EQ in the software editor or app. Seems like a very useful tool to have and I'm glad the Lion has one in the editor. I find that having a high cut is very useful for taming the high end in speaker simulations or IRs, especially over 5khz.
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you like the comparison and the vocals: it means a lot to me!! Good point about the EQ...thank you for sharing!
Another fantastic and detailed video. Always enjoy watching them as you really go in to detail and give an honest appraisal. I had intended getting the lion as I’m a plexi fan but I’ve changed my mind and the IR2 seems to offer the most for the money. Just a shame it hasn’t got midi but at this price you can’t complain. Thanks again.
Thank you very much for your enormous dedication in sharing your knowledge, for me your channel is one of the best today. Leo you are the best. My budget currently only allows me to use the Flamma FS06 Preamp pedal 😅
Nice recordings. Massive differences accurately showing the glaring weakness of the digital realm in 2023. The 12 series was sooooo over-the-top in a wall of sounding, dripping in harmonically rich sonics that you though it was going to fall apart....yet the notes still rang out with clarity without losing resonance or luster, so cool. The IR-2 is decent but more Kemper link, flatter mid character.... nice harmonic capability in rung sustaining notes, compared the UA which is very Friedman sounding... lots of 120-400hz resonance but not an real low plexi freqs....once the LION does--- if it does, along with more IRs and cab will be the clear winner. The boss until for home practice and flipping insta videos is the clear winner at this price
Hello, Leo! A few days ago I bought the "Rodenberg BL800 Gold", a pedal that is built by hand in Germany and simulates a JCM 800 incredibly authentically, without digital coldness. I am absolutely thrilled! Make sure you listen to the BL800 if you get the chance. It also costs only half the price of the UAFX Lion and works completely analogue. It took a whole 4 years to develop. Best regards from Germany Mic 🙂
@@LeoGibsonGtr Okay! 🙂 This pedal will certainly not disappoint you, because you and I have high expectations when it comes to the classic Marshall sound. If you test it, try the "HI Power" pedal from Crazy Tube Circuits, which simulates three classic Hiwatt sounds very well. As a Gilmour fan, I couldn't resist and also bought the "HI Power". Best regards from Germany Mic
Hi Leo! First of all: congratulations on doing a great job :) I recently bought a TC Electronic Jims 45 unit and I'm happy with it. However, I'm still tempted to buy a UAFX Lion or possibly a Strymon Iridium. I'd like to know your opinion on the sound quality itself: is it worth investing and will I really notice an observable difference. I'm only interested in the tones - I know the technical specifications of the mentioned devices almost by heart ;)
Hi, it's always hard to provide "black" or "white" advice on tone, as it this is pretty subjective. I can say that so far I have enjoyed the Iridium the most versus the other units you are mentioning...just personal opinion, also related to amps choice available in the Iridium Thank you and I'm happy that you like the videos!!!
@@LeoGibsonGtr Thank you for your response. I will probably buy a Lion eventually, and time will tell what happens next ;) Finally, one technical question came to my mind: is it possible to edit and overwrite presets available in the phone application in the aforementioned device?
Returned my UAFX Dream 65 after my first live gig, Bluetooth did not connect. Ordered the IR-2 because I just need a simple way to play clean and distorted through my PA during live gigs. Simple. The audience does not care if it sounds “ just like “ anything. I just need it to work and do what it is told to do. I have more than one tube amps. Don’t like carrying them around anymore.
That is precisely why I ordered the IR-2. My back can't take lifting heavy tube amps anymore. Also, I want more control over my tone and volume when at rehearsal (I hate using house provided amps).
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the videos: it means a lot to me!!!! Well, hard question...in this case I prefer not to answer in order not to influence anybody with my personal opinion: I try to five you the elements to decide. I hope you understand. Thank you!
Always lovely to watch your videos Leo as they give us all good and valuable infos about pedals. I have the Lion myself and have had it for about a month. The reverb in it is not really a reverb per say. I think it's called room right and like you say it's not really useful in a way we often are used to with multi pedalboards with all different types of reverbs. The "room" gives you a rehearsing room ambience I actually like. However there is a hidden reverb in it under some artist presets and a really lovely one too. As long as you use that speaker IR you can tweak the settings and the reverb is there hidden under the "room" knob. I think this is by far the best Plexi sounding pedal. Also captures some of the harmonics from a real good sounding Plexi. I recently got the OX Stomp to add more flavors to the Lion but also to other preamp and multi fx units. Their IRs are really lovely sounding and in the OX Stomp you also have all these different mics, cabs, speakers of course and delays and reverbs. Even the option to have a wet and one dry side. I find UA pedals more useful for people who just needs one style of amp. Or like The Edge uses his UA pedals now.
Is latency noticeable while playing at these units?which one would you say is best? in theory, strymon iridium, as being 1.1ms? thank you for this hardworking content, great stuff, Leo!
I never thought I'd see a video like this that I would end up favoring the Boss unit but the fact that it has so many features and the low price just makes it a no brainer. And in the mixes the differences were noticeable but any differences were small. Or to say another way, the Strymon and UAFX were not worth an extra 200 USD. Great video comparison as always. Thanks! I was interested in the Lion but this had me rethink it.
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video and find it useful!! Thank you also for sharing your findings and your final choice!!!
For people who can afford the experience, they will go with thr UAFX Lion. For people who don't care about accuracy, they'll go for the Boss IR-2 which has an imprrssive array of features for the price. The Strymon has been underwhelming in every comparison video 😂
Leo, I love your channel. In the future could you do a video on the walrus audio acs1 which has had a firmware update 2.0. Could you compare to othe amp in a box pedals like boss ir-2 uafx lion and iridium and also look at latency for the ACS1 please? I can't find any i formation on latency for the ACS1. This would be very helpful. And thank you again for your very comprehensive Channel
Thank you so much, I'm very happy that you like the channel! Unfortunately I don't have the ACS1...maybe in the future if I'm able to find a good 2nd hand occasion. Thanks!
Hello Leo ! I think that UAD really exaggerates on the price of their products in general, and this Lion makes once again the demonstration. Almost twice the price of the Boss for a sound that is far from being twice better and with many less specificities, it is really abuse. The prestige of the brand, no doubt... That said, thanks for this excellent review and congrats for the music ! 😊👋👋👋
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video and the music: it means a lot to me!!! Thank you also for sharing your findings! yes, the price of the Lion is pretty high...even considering that it lacks midi...and the app...so far...does not work well...
Even if i also think UA goes on the higher price tier for what they propose, they only really aligned on the market competition. Don't forget Boss IR-2 was released afterwards and they took the initiative to tackle all competition with a jam packed compact pedal at 50% of the price of the 2 others.
Leo thanks for this video, and many others! I recently discovered you channel and really respect your work and effort! About the pedals, for the true tube-like tone and feel, I think that UAFX are the best, by far. Lack of usb, mic input, other amp variations etc are not cons in my opinion, because if you buy Marshall Plexy it is not con that it doesn't have Fender switch, Vox etc...UAFX are iconic amps in a backpack. On the other side, Boss kicks in very agressive price and options, but not the tone on UAFX level. But I'm sure it will get the job done very well even for live ampless usage. Strymon for me is in a no mans land, and wouldn't consider it..This is my view, and I'm also considering ir2 and Ruby to replace my tube amp for practicality. Greetings from Montenegro!
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the videos!!!! Thank you also for sharing your findings and your point of view!!! It's very cool that we are so far and we can still communicate and share opinions...Thank you for your comment!!!
Hi Leo, just found your channel and what a great channel you have! May I seek your advise with the following: It looks like the Boss IR2 is focuse on high gain and distortion, based on what most reviewers shows. I am more on the clean side and not onto heavy distortions. Do you think the Boss IR2 also works for clean sounds? My options are ACS1 or DMS Simplifier, but the price for this boss is just crazy! thanks!
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the channel!!! In my opinion it is possible to use the IR 2 also for clean sounds, even if it is true that the number of amps oriented to distorted / edge of distorted tones is greater. You may want to check out the list of amp available in the IR2 to have a better idea of what you may expect from clean tones.....by the way, in my review of the IR2, there are also some clean tones examples Thank you so much!!!
The IR-2 flew off the shelves and now there is a 2 month waiting period in Europe (probably in America too). Any thoughts about comparing the IR-2 vs the IR-200?
Hi, I still have to do some direct test IR2 vs IR 200...but they should sound the same. The IR200 has 8 guitar amps and 3 bass amps: I would suggest you to verify if the guitar amps missing in the IR 200 vs the IR 2 are important for you. If I remember it well the reverb in the IR 200 are studio room hall, where the IR 2 has a plate reverb....then the IR 200 is bigger heavier and more expensive. If the IR 200 is fine as regards the aforementioned elements...then you can pull the trigger.... Thank you!
@LeoGibsonGtr the problem is that I tried to buy it using your link and it was sold out. So it will take me a while... And I thought about the IR200... but your opinion is always appreciated. Grazie
Thank you so much for using the link! Once you follow the link...even if you then purchase something else, I should get some commissions (and you don't pay anything more)...therefore, please feel free also to buy something else (like the IR 200). Thank you so much!
Excellent video yet again Leo, thank you for this! I recently exchanged the UA Ruby for the ir200 -- the Ruby sounded fantastic but dealing with the app really killed the experience for me, unfortunately. I have an Android phone and it had me wondering if UA is more Apple friendly. A real bummer. Haven't received the ir200 yet but your videos help convince me to pick it up, so thank you! Can't wait to dig into it!
You are welcome and I'm happy that you appreciate the video!!!! Thank you also for sharing your findings and your final choice...and yes..the Lion app drives me crazy...
@@illgottengains1314 good for you! I mean the pedals sound absolutely amazing, but I'm learning that I'm a function over form kinda person. If it doesn't work easily I'll ditch it. Glad you're having a better experience!
Great video Leo, always good to see you play with your brother. But do we hear your sister in the beginning of the demo song? Where is she??? :-) Just kidding...about the video: Really nice that although you are open about getting the Boss for free you still have an honest opinion on that, that's great. About the test: missing some clean (Fender) tone-comparisons with the unit . Any reason not to do this? Thanks Leo, alway a great and enjoyable source to watch!
😀😀😀... thank you, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!! I wanted to include the UAFX Lion in this video, and the Lion is a Plexi simulation where I think we should try the distorted tones and the edge of the brick up one. Furthermore the Lion does not have a Fender simulation (as I said, it is focused on the Plexi). Thank you!
I agree with you about UAFX line in general. Some are hits, most are misses and there is nothing you can do to fix the misses. That’s very uncharacteristic for the company UA.
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!! Thank you for taking the time to let me know: it means a lot to me! Yes, you can disable the cab sim in the IR2 Thank you!
Great video. All the devices here sound dark and lifeless compared with the real amp. Maybe they could be tweaked to resolve this problem. I would only buy the IR-2 of these.
Hi Leo, wonderful, sounds so good your song. Wath do you prefer for a clean platform for pedals, the IR2, lion, dream, ruby or the Nux academy? Should be dynamicly, in your face and touch sensitiv. Or better a analog device like the Carl Martin Ampster? Thanks for everyone who answers.
Thank you so much, I'm really super happy that you like the music!!! Well, I try not to give "absolute" answers here, not to influence you with my personal taste that might be different from yours.... furthermore it depends from the type of clean sound you want to have. For instance you might want a Fender like clean tone or a plexi one....I don't know....the only thing I may say, is that if you want a clean Fender like tone...the Lion and the Ruby might not be the right one for you. Thank you, I'm sorry and I hope you understand.
All of the pedals sounded really close. I guess if I had to pick one I would say the UAFX sounded a tiny amount closer to me. I like the value the IR2 gives though with headphones and effects loop.. Also, the midi on the iridium is nice. I still think I would pick the boss. ❤
It is true that the Lion sounds kind of dark with the provided speakers, I fixed it by using the uafx ox stomp. For some reason the same speaker in the ox stomp and the lion sounds darker in the lion. Maybe it is equalized like that
I think this is the best product Boss have brought out in many years and I hope the result is that we get more products like it. I haven't really liked anything Boss have done in a long time, I'm not a fan of the Katana or the Boss MFX products but I really like this pedal. My only complaint is I think it is probably priced slightly high for what it is. I get that compared to these pedals it seems cheap but I think it really also needs to be considered next to MFX pedals both new and more importantly it's pretty much the same price as a Katana.
I tried the UA Lion in a store through similar Genelec studio monitors that I use at home, and felt it didn't do anything I couldn't get out of my Strymon Iridium + 3rd party IRs. Personally I have not found the Strymon to lack bass though - I usually run it below noon with the York Audio and ML Sound Lab IRs I use. It compares favorably to other modelers or Marshall style amps in my experience. The Boss is hard to beat in value for money though, being about half the price of the others. Used Iridiums can be a good deal though, if your preferences are for classic Fender/Vox/Marshall tones.
Hi, thank you for sharing your findings! Taken alone, maybe the iridium is fine as regards bass...but when I compared it to the real deal I found that it lacks bass....at least in my opinion. Thank you!
Great Riffs sir I love them all...but which option out of the three do you think would be the best to run direct from analog pedals into the mixing board in live situations...
Hi, I wanted to include it in this video...and actually I also did the comparison chart including it...but then I found that probably the Plexi is not among the amp sim of the Academy...therefore I will do another video comparing the Academy to the IR2 Thank you!
Actually I wanted to include it in this video...and I already did the comparison chart with also the Academy...but then I found out that maybe the Academy was missing the Plexi simulation...therefore I will do another video IR2 versus Academy. Thank you
@@LeoGibsonGtr thanks a lot Leo! I have Amp Academy, but the Boss IR2 is very tempting too. Tbh, i think Boss IR2 is the simple version of Nux Amp Academy which have more live choice (A/B Ch and 3 Scenes each). Anyway, Leo you always great! Never tired of your contents.
@@LeoGibsonGtr Ciao Leo, I wish to know if you agree on this. I heard the examples on quality headphones and my studio monitors (by the way, congratulation on leaving the examples to always fade out naturally! During the sustain and fadeout is where the transients made the biggest difference to my ears. The difference between pedals and amp when you pick (attack vs decay) the guitars was negligible) and I did not expect to hear such a great difference. This was due to most of the comparison videis in UA-cam, so kudos to you for having such a scientific approach to your process. To me it became clear that these pedals still require a more advanced technology. These companies still haven't nailed the complexities of transients and harmonics interacting and creating more transients and feedback plus sustain. I was really surprised of how much my ears picked up in terms of subtlety in sound from your experiment. Thank you.
Okay so I'm only up to 9:26 but... the IR-2 is the only one with an effects loop, has the best latency, is the only one that can be used as an interface, draws the least power, and is the cheapest!
Another very useful video. Thank you. Leo, Is there any chance you could prepare a comprehensive video on the H90 latency? 1/2 the H90; both halves of the H90; with one mono insert; with two mono inserts; with one stereo insert; etc? No one has touched that and your latency videos are so helpful. Thank you for considering it!
Thank you, I'm happy that you find the video useful! With H90 you mean Eventide? Unfortunately I don't have it...and it is crazy expensive...maybe in the future. Thank you!
Hi, it's another great option...Initially I wanted to included in the comparison....but then I notice that it was not offering a Plexi. I think I will do another comparison video vs the IR2. Thank you!
When using the IR-2 as an interface can you hear the DAW playback AND have DIRECT monitoring through the headphone jack? I was very bummed that the Tonex pedal could not do this seemingly obvious thing
Leo, with a limited budget, do you think I'm better served with an Ampero 2 or similar multi fx comparing to these pedals? I know we can get good tones with all of them, but what about the feel, something you talked on this video. Do they compare?
Hi, it's an hard question to answer....I would say that in terms of tone also the Ampero 2 is very good, and you get also all the effects... Thank you!
I was already planning to get the IR-2 for the MDP amp models. Seeing how well it stacks up spec-wise-FX loop, best latency, 32-bit float A/D, draws less current, works as an interface, smallest, & least expensive… It’s pretty impressive.
Hi Robert, thank you for sharing!
I agree, and just ordered it from Sweetwater...
I'm pretty sure my wife got me the Boss IR2 for Christmas.. Will try it through a GSC CP12 to see what I get. Also I got the Headrush flex prime but haven't fired it up yet.
Great video. This video made me decide on the BOSS IR-2. I was so set on the Lion but the price of the BOSS and the amount of features offer makes this a no brainer.
Hi, thank you so much for sharing your final choice and I'm happy that you appreciate the video!!!
I'm so glad you let the notes ring out in your tests to show how driven tones decay on these units, the decay is where you can tell a lot about the real world feel of an amp-in-a-box. Great video!
Thank you!!! I'm really happy that you appreciate it....and thank you to take the time to let me know: it means a lot to me!!!
Late but couldnt agree more, usually the decay and playing with the volume on the guitar is my indicator. As well as touch of the pick
I just recently discovered this channel, and I don't usually comment anything on youtube, but Leo you have a great channel and the content is amazing. Really amazing stuff, yout analysis is very deep with a great quality. Thanks for the great videos. Keep up the good work!
Wow, thank you so much for such amazing compliments that really make me happy!!!!!
Thank you!!!🙏🙏
@@LeoGibsonGtr I've been following your channel for a while. Great way to keep up with the latest tech. Love the mix of gear shoot-outs, deep dives on specs and your original compositions.
I agree recently discovered this channel and Leo is very informative,
@@guitarzilla555 thank you so much, I really appreciate it, and I'm happy that you like the approach of the videos: it means a lot to me!!!!
@@Gilyslas Thank you so much for letting me know!!!!
Man, thank you SO MUCH for making this. I ordered a Lion '68 a little while back after loving the dream '65 so much. I had the Dream '65 to replace my twin reverb, but I've never played a Marshal in real life before so I didn't know how it stacked up to the real thing. I especially didn't know how it stacked up to other amp sims either - and your video really helps showcase that regardless of which one you choose, they're pretty much the same in a mix. Appreciate you dude! Keep up the good work! 😊
Thank you so much, I’m really happy that you appreciate the video and to have been of some help!!!!
The Boss is not only "less expensive" its only half the price. That alone makes it stand out and the overall usability like on an ampless Board with the additional low power consumption, interface for direct recording, headphone out for practicing... is hard to beat.
The choice is only hard, if money isn't a criteria.
I'm impressed BOSS delivered all that with only 1 ms of latency.
Hi, thank you for sharing your opinions and your findings!!!
Yes, the latency is very good...but also the latency of the Iridium is great.
Thanks!
After listening to your incredible music, I honestly forgot what I was here for. GREAT playing!
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the music: it means a lot to me!!!
You're demo's are always the best, clear and concise! Thanks so much for the time you put into them!
Thank you for such amazing compliment, I'm really happy that you appreciate the videos!!!! Thank you!
I liked the iridium in most comparisons. My first initial gut reaction to ir2 was a bit tinny sounding.
Hi, thank you for sharing!
THANK YOU! I've been waiting for a shoot-out with the IR-2. Would love to hear it against Neural and Fractal. I realize IR-2 is a fraction of the price, but I'm considering using it with effects pedals vs something like Quad Cortex.
Hi, you are welcome and thank you for your suggestions!!!
Another great video, Leo. Thanks.
About the proximity to the real amp, I found the IR2 the less close and the Lion the best. But in a song, I doubt that I would notice anything, the 3 sound good.
Thank you both for the compliments, that make me happy, and for sharing your opinion and your findings!!!
I was surprised how close they sounded, closer than I expected. It's an amazing time for guitarists having all these options.
I have the same opinion too. The IR2 sounds different, might not be a very accurate representation of that amp, but it still sounds good on its own.
WOW. An EXCELLENT review. First class playing. Very thorough comparisons, without any comments or talking during the audio comparison examples (which are often distracting). Very helpful video. Thank you.
You are welcome and I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!
Best comparison video I’ve ever seen, especially the tone / dynamic response comparisons - truly useful information. I own the Iridium and a UA Dream. The Iridium requires a lot more fine tuning while the UA is plug and play, the latter being a big appeal but I now see more short comings of that unit. The IR-2 looks great feature wise but sounds the weakest of the three here IMO. I imagine that it’s a Katana in a pedal - which is not a bad thing.
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!
Thank you also for sharing your experience and your findings!
In the mix, I literally can't tell them apart. Loved the demo song! As a player, when you do each isolated, letting the tones ring out, there are differences. They all do a very passable job and sound excellent. The Boss is a fantastic deal for the price! God bless and Merry Christmas 🎁 🎸
Thank you so much, I'm really that you like the song!!!!
Thank you also for sharing your opinions and your findings!!!
Yes, the price difference is pretty noticable....Merry Christmas to you too!!!
I bought the IR2 almost a week ago. Waiting for it to come in. Can’t wait. Nice comparison btw.
Me too...I ordered it on day one!!!
First they said it will be delivered within a week...two days later I got a e-mail...."Sorry, but the IR-2 is available in 8-10 weeks"....what the f*ck, Boss!?
How exciting, my engineer brought over an Iridium and so far I like it. I still prefer my lovely tube amps though, nothing like the purity of hot tubes with analog pedals.
Great video, thanks for comparing the units and showing their features. I play mainly at open mic and jam sessions so I'll probably get an IR2, that will allow me to make a small pedal board with the IR2, an echo pedal and a maybe looper and go direct into the PA. That it runs on batteries or a standard pedal board power brick is a big advantage, set up & take down time will be a few seconds which is always helpful if you are only playing a handful of songs 🙂
You are welcome and I'm happy that you appreciate the video!
Thank you also for sharing your use case!!!
Loved the opening track. Killer riff. Beautiful chords. Vocals! No matter what gear is being used...the music is everything.
Wow, thank you so much for such amazing compliments!!! It really means a lot to me!!!!
Thank you for taking the time to letting me know....I'm moved...
What a intro Leo.
Btw I've just tested ir-2 and compared it with my sy1000 and gt1000 built in amp sound.
Funnily enough i prefer the ir-2 sound, so I'm back to stompbox market now 😅
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you like the music!!!
Thank you also for sharing your findings...I have to make a direct comparison between the three....I'm very curious!!!
Thank you for a great comprehensive video. I borrowed the Iridium for a few months and I did like it but then the Lion came out and that more. However, now that IR-2 is out I want it more than the Lion b/c of the price.
😀... thank you for sharing!
I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!
Very good review and great playing, thank you, Leo !!
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you like the video....and when you like my music...I'm super happy!!!
Cada vez son mejores tus videos y tutoriales! La calidad y dedicación en cada detalle no tienen comparación con ningún otro canal de UA-cam. Te felicito!!!
Thank you so much for such amazing compliments!!! Thank you for taking the time to tell us you feedback: it really means a lot to me!!!!
🙏🙏🙏
Very useful comparison and summary of 3 great options for players.
I did think that the Boss IR2 had more noise in the Test 1, sounded good but noisy compared to the others when you let the notes ring out.
I have the UA Ruby and Iridium and I find that the Ruby is in a different class . Sounds and feels more like an amp. Having said that your video has reminded me how good the Iridium is so it may be coming out of the box and back on a board 😂
One tip I have for Ruby which will be transferable to Lion is to really spend some time looking at the artist and factory presets as there are different cab and mic options in there.
I also found some presets with a larger room reverb than the standard ones available on the pedal, so I build my user presets with that as a base and change the amp models , cabs and settings to suit.
I do know there is a preset in the Lion with a Hall reverb so you could do similar using that.
It may also be worth mentioning that there is now a PC/Mac editor for Strymon Iridium called Nixie 2, means you can set the pedal up without all the unplug the power and hold down buttons while turning a dial hassle. There are also apps for Android/IOS to control Iridium but they are 3rd party with a small cost.
As always, thanks for taking the time to do this level of comparison that others don’t 👍
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video and take the time to live a feedback!!!!!
Thank you also for sharing your experience and findings...interesting points...I didn't know about the app for the Iridium....for sure it helps....as changing the preset with all those complicated combination of know was pretty hard: I will check out the app.
Thank you so much!!!!
Never owned a tube amp but I have to say I liked the real Plexi the best. They all sound really good when played well though. Thanks for this excellent comparison Mr. Gibson.
You are welcome and thank you so much for let me know your opinion and your findings!!! Relly appreciated!!!! 🙏🙏🙏
Ottimo video. Questo video mi ha fatto decidere per il BOSS IR-2. 👍
Grazie, sono contento che il video ti sia piaciuto!!
Thank you for the wonderful comparison Leo. Im quite surprised just how noisy the IR2 seems to be... but even more surprised that it kind of makes me like it more 🙂Soon as I can get one in stock in Ireland Im definitely picking an IR2 up! Thanks again.
You are welcome, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video! Thank you also for sharing your findings and your final choice!!!
Love this very thought out and complete review and unbiased!
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!
Fine demo Leo! I totally agree with you about the bluetooth app of the UAFX pedals, they are a nightmare, they really need to fix that soon because otherwise I will also switch to the Boss IR-2
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!!
Thank you also for sharing your experience with the app and .... I totally agree with you...the experience....could be improved....😀
I own an Iridium, Quilter Superblocks US and UK. I have many real amps Blackface Princeton Reverb, vintage Gibsons and Ampegs and 1993 Matchless SC30. I think Quilter Superblocks are just as good as the high-end modelers for many applications and they are actual amps that you can gig with. Nothing responds like a tube amp or takes drive pedals as well, but modelers sound damn good and almost no one can tell the difference. The IR2 is a winner and is going to be a smash hit. Great demo. It's about appropriate tone and having something to say musically and musicianship. They are all cool tools.
Hi, thank you so much for sharing your experience and your findings!!!
I'm really happy that you appreciate the video, it really means a lot to me!!!
Great video Leo, Boss for the win.
Thank you so much, I'm happy that you like the video!
Thank you also for sharing your choice!
my first reaction to the release of the Boss IR-2 was that they were simply following a trend, but the more I hear, my reaction is that it is a serious piece of gear in the right hands. Edit: IMO the small, concentric knobs on Boss pedals require a pincer- grip and make fine adjustments more difficult
Hi, thank you for sharing your findings!!!
Great video! Would have loved the inclusion of two notes opus in this stand off!
Hi, thank you, I'm really happy that you have appreciated the video!!!
Yes, it would have been nice...but adding a device....this video would have become even more complicated to do...maybe I will do another comparison in the coming weeks...
I just got the IR-2 and it’s awesome!
Thank you for sharing!
@@LeoGibsonGtr I've only scratched the surface of everything it can do, and it's already changing how I play and practice. :)
Whichever serves you best, choose it! In the end, your happiness and satisfaction is important.
Thank you for this thorough and valuable review/comparison which is indeed helpful in choosing a unit. Cheers!
Thank you for sharing!
A master of the dying art of comparison vids. Fed up with those launch day hype vids. Stellar riffs sir.
Thank you so much, I'm super happy that you appreciate the videos and the riff!!! thank you for taking the time to letting me know: It means a lot to me!!! 🙏🙏🙏
great review! Thank you Leo. And beautiful guitar playing & the music's really awesome! 🙌🏼❤️😊
Thank you so much: when you like my music....I'm super happy!!!!
Thank you for the thoroughness! Honestly, they all sound very impressive. For price vs features, the Boss is very alluring - even if it is a little noisy (but that's why noise gates exists, right?!).
You are welcome and thank you for sharing your opinion!
Noise gates are horrible, they kill the decay.
Cool video. They’re all great units. I was chasing a plexi sound so I went with the Lion. I agree with your points about a wonky Bluetooth experience. It’s something affecting other UAFX pedals also I think. They need to fix it IMO
Hi, thank you for sharing! Yes....the app drives me crazy...
Same for me with the Ruby! I have an Android phone and I wonder if that plays into it -- does it work better with an iphone?
I have some of the UA amp sims and reverb pedals. So far, it works well on my iPhone.
I am getting the IR-2 because I'm a beginner and, where I would play, they would rather have DI. It's also cheaper than any decent amp and it has headphones, which is super important. It's also compact, has multiple Amp and Cab models so I can get a flavor of real amps so if I ever want to make that dive, it's a much easier choice. I can also play it anywhere in my house if I use headphones (and won't annoy my wife that much). Value for money is also at the top of my list and this is punching above it's weight by far at $200.
Hi, thank you so much for sharing your findings and your final choice!
Thank you for taking the time to share your preferences!
You really do excellent work on this channel. Thank you
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the channel!!!
Thank you also for taking the time to let me know: it means a lot to me!
The fact that Boss IR-2 can be battery powered makes it a great device to keep on the shelf for night practice or to be kept in the bag for gigging.
This makes it really stands against his competitors.
Iridium tone/specs wise is killer, but the Boss is cheaper and more complete overall.
It might be less accurate tone wise, but everything it’s just a pale mimic of the real deal as you can not compare headphones experience with 4x12 one
Hi, thank you for sharing your findings and opinions!!!
Excelent and detailed, thanks for your effort
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!
What stood out to me was how much hum the IR-2 has, seems much noisier than the others. Some of its high-end tones were pretty shrill too. Great to be able to hear them all back to back.
Hi, thank you for sharing and I'm happy to have been of some help!
If I just wanted one great amp, I would go with UA, if I wanted a bunch of them and I needed an audio interface, the Boss is a crazy good pedal. If I need midi..well we have the Strymon. I have my HX Stomp, so I am fine.
Hi, thank you so much for sharing!
Thank you for the detailed comparison Leo! I love the harmony vocals in the track. I own the Iridium and my girlfriend owns a Boss ME90, we will be buying an IR-2 soon. Your videos have been very helpful! I do wish that Strymon and Boss would include a basic parametric EQ in the software editor or app. Seems like a very useful tool to have and I'm glad the Lion has one in the editor. I find that having a high cut is very useful for taming the high end in speaker simulations or IRs, especially over 5khz.
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you like the comparison and the vocals: it means a lot to me!!
Good point about the EQ...thank you for sharing!
Daniel! I follow your channel. Great playing!
@@PerishableDave Haha nice to see you here, thank you for following my channel!!
The Boss IR-200 has the parametric EQ.
In the Iridium IR software there’s a simple eq to taylor each IR.
Awesome comparison of these pedals
Thank you, I'm really happy that you like the comparison!!
Another fantastic and detailed video. Always enjoy watching them as you really go in to detail and give an honest appraisal. I had intended getting the lion as I’m a plexi fan but I’ve changed my mind and the IR2 seems to offer the most for the money. Just a shame it hasn’t got midi but at this price you can’t complain. Thanks again.
You are welcome and I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!!
Thank you also for sharing your findings and your final choice!
Amazing song Leo! Love it!
Thank you so much...when you like my music...I'm super happy!!!
Thank you very much for your enormous dedication in sharing your knowledge, for me your channel is one of the best today. Leo you are the best. My budget currently only allows me to use the Flamma FS06 Preamp pedal 😅
Hi Vinicius, thank you so much for such amazing comments that really make me happy! Thank you also for sharing your FS06 choice!
Nice recordings. Massive differences accurately showing the glaring weakness of the digital realm in 2023. The 12 series was sooooo over-the-top in a wall of sounding, dripping in harmonically rich sonics that you though it was going to fall apart....yet the notes still rang out with clarity without losing resonance or luster, so cool. The IR-2 is decent but more Kemper link, flatter mid character.... nice harmonic capability in rung sustaining notes, compared the UA which is very Friedman sounding... lots of 120-400hz resonance but not an real low plexi freqs....once the LION does--- if it does, along with more IRs and cab will be the clear winner. The boss until for home practice and flipping insta videos is the clear winner at this price
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!
Thank you also for sharing your findings and your in depth analysis!!!
Hello, Leo!
A few days ago I bought the "Rodenberg BL800 Gold", a pedal that is built by hand in Germany and simulates a JCM 800 incredibly authentically, without digital coldness. I am absolutely thrilled! Make sure you listen to the BL800 if you get the chance. It also costs only half the price of the UAFX Lion and works completely analogue. It took a whole 4 years to develop.
Best regards from Germany
Mic 🙂
Hi, thank you so much for sharing!!! I will for sure check it out!!!
Thanks!
@@LeoGibsonGtr Okay! 🙂 This pedal will certainly not disappoint you, because you and I have high expectations when it comes to the classic Marshall sound. If you test it, try the "HI Power" pedal from Crazy Tube Circuits, which simulates three classic Hiwatt sounds very well. As a Gilmour fan, I couldn't resist and also bought the "HI Power".
Best regards from Germany
Mic
Hi Leo! First of all: congratulations on doing a great job :) I recently bought a TC Electronic Jims 45 unit and I'm happy with it. However, I'm still tempted to buy a UAFX Lion or possibly a Strymon Iridium. I'd like to know your opinion on the sound quality itself: is it worth investing and will I really notice an observable difference. I'm only interested in the tones - I know the technical specifications of the mentioned devices almost by heart ;)
Hi, it's always hard to provide "black" or "white" advice on tone, as it this is pretty subjective. I can say that so far I have enjoyed the Iridium the most versus the other units you are mentioning...just personal opinion, also related to amps choice available in the Iridium
Thank you and I'm happy that you like the videos!!!
@@LeoGibsonGtr Thank you for your response. I will probably buy a Lion eventually, and time will tell what happens next ;) Finally, one technical question came to my mind: is it possible to edit and overwrite presets available in the phone application in the aforementioned device?
Returned my UAFX Dream 65 after my first live gig, Bluetooth did not connect. Ordered the IR-2 because I just need a simple way to play clean and distorted through my PA during live gigs. Simple. The audience does not care if it sounds “ just like “ anything. I just need it to work and do what it is told to do. I have more than one tube amps. Don’t like carrying them around anymore.
Hi, thank you for sharing your experience and your findings!
Really appreciated!
That is precisely why I ordered the IR-2. My back can't take lifting heavy tube amps anymore. Also, I want more control over my tone and volume when at rehearsal (I hate using house provided amps).
Beautiful job Leo, you're doing an excellent job. Out of the three, which one is your fancy? The Boss is looking really good.
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the videos: it means a lot to me!!!! Well, hard question...in this case I prefer not to answer in order not to influence anybody with my personal opinion: I try to five you the elements to decide. I hope you understand. Thank you!
Great video Leo, it's becoming very difficult to choose between the Two Notes Opus and Boss IR-2.
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!!
Yes, that's another good choice!
Leo thank you for making these kinds of videos.
You are welcome and I'm happy to be of some help!!!
Great track in the intro, as usual. Always a highlight of your videos. 👍
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the song: it really means a lot to me!!!
Thank you!!!! 🙏🙏
Nice Intro Song!
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you like the song!!!!
Completely agree - best one yet
Always lovely to watch your videos Leo as they give us all good and valuable infos about pedals. I have the Lion myself and have had it for about a month. The reverb in it is not really a reverb per say. I think it's called room right and like you say it's not really useful in a way we often are used to with multi pedalboards with all different types of reverbs. The "room" gives you a rehearsing room ambience I actually like. However there is a hidden reverb in it under some artist presets and a really lovely one too. As long as you use that speaker IR you can tweak the settings and the reverb is there hidden under the "room" knob. I think this is by far the best Plexi sounding pedal. Also captures some of the harmonics from a real good sounding Plexi. I recently got the OX Stomp to add more flavors to the Lion but also to other preamp and multi fx units. Their IRs are really lovely sounding and in the OX Stomp you also have all these different mics, cabs, speakers of course and delays and reverbs. Even the option to have a wet and one dry side. I find UA pedals more useful for people who just needs one style of amp. Or like The Edge uses his UA pedals now.
Hi, thank you Peter, I'm happy that you appreciate the videos!!!!
Thank you also for sharing your experience and your findings!!!
Excellent work. Subscribed immediately.
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!
Great tune, Leo!!
Thank you, I'm really happy that you like the song!!!
Is latency noticeable while playing at these units?which one would you say is best? in theory, strymon iridium, as being 1.1ms? thank you for this hardworking content, great stuff, Leo!
You are welcome! It depends how sensible you are to latency....of course the lower is the better...
I never thought I'd see a video like this that I would end up favoring the Boss unit but the fact that it has so many features and the low price just makes it a no brainer. And in the mixes the differences were noticeable but any differences were small. Or to say another way, the Strymon and UAFX were not worth an extra 200 USD. Great video comparison as always. Thanks! I was interested in the Lion but this had me rethink it.
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video and find it useful!!
Thank you also for sharing your findings and your final choice!!!
👍👍👍 IR-2 seems like a great pedal!
Hi, thank you for sharing!
Great video , very useful and precise , good job 😃👍
Thank you so much Claudio, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!!
The IR-2 was exactly what I have been needing at this price point. All I need is an FRFR and I'm all set.
Hi, thank you for sharing!
Beautiful work Leo
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate it!!!
Intro song is great☺ Leo you're amazing musician 😇
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you enjoy the song!!!!
Thank you for taking the time to let me know: it means a lot to me!!!
For people who can afford the experience, they will go with thr UAFX Lion. For people who don't care about accuracy, they'll go for the Boss IR-2 which has an imprrssive array of features for the price. The Strymon has been underwhelming in every comparison video 😂
Hi, thank you for sharing your findings!
The proof that in the mix all sound good enough and we've better double down on practicing instead of buying more gear.
Practicing is always a good thing 👍😀
Thank you!
Good video. I agree with your appraisal of the sounds
Thank you so much, I'm happy that you like the video!!!
Leo, I love your channel. In the future could you do a video on the walrus audio acs1 which has had a firmware update 2.0. Could you compare to othe amp in a box pedals like boss ir-2 uafx lion and iridium and also look at latency for the ACS1 please? I can't find any i formation on latency for the ACS1. This would be very helpful. And thank you again for your very comprehensive Channel
Thank you so much, I'm very happy that you like the channel!
Unfortunately I don't have the ACS1...maybe in the future if I'm able to find a good 2nd hand occasion. Thanks!
The Lion sounds best to my ear. Especially with the dynamics, which to me are the most important part of simulating a Tube Amplifier.
Hi, thank you for sharing your findings!!!
Hello Leo ! I think that UAD really exaggerates on the price of their products in general, and this Lion makes once again the demonstration. Almost twice the price of the Boss for a sound that is far from being twice better and with many less specificities, it is really abuse. The prestige of the brand, no doubt...
That said, thanks for this excellent review and congrats for the music ! 😊👋👋👋
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video and the music: it means a lot to me!!!
Thank you also for sharing your findings! yes, the price of the Lion is pretty high...even considering that it lacks midi...and the app...so far...does not work well...
Even if i also think UA goes on the higher price tier for what they propose, they only really aligned on the market competition. Don't forget Boss IR-2 was released afterwards and they took the initiative to tackle all competition with a jam packed compact pedal at 50% of the price of the 2 others.
I think the Lion is better if you want accuracy. The IR is good if you only need good enough
If only UAD would make a pedal that had some of the features that the new Boss IR 2 does… at $399 it doesn’t seem worth the extra $
@@cfire99 In EU the UA pedal comes between 3X and 4X the price of a more compact IR-2 with many more features and flexibility of use.
Great comparison! 👍🏼
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!
Leo thanks for this video, and many others! I recently discovered you channel and really respect your work and effort! About the pedals, for the true tube-like tone and feel, I think that UAFX are the best, by far. Lack of usb, mic input, other amp variations etc are not cons in my opinion, because if you buy Marshall Plexy it is not con that it doesn't have Fender switch, Vox etc...UAFX are iconic amps in a backpack. On the other side, Boss kicks in very agressive price and options, but not the tone on UAFX level. But I'm sure it will get the job done very well even for live ampless usage. Strymon for me is in a no mans land, and wouldn't consider it..This is my view, and I'm also considering ir2 and Ruby to replace my tube amp for practicality. Greetings from Montenegro!
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the videos!!!!
Thank you also for sharing your findings and your point of view!!!
It's very cool that we are so far and we can still communicate and share opinions...Thank you for your comment!!!
Hi Leo, just found your channel and what a great channel you have! May I seek your advise with the following: It looks like the Boss IR2 is focuse on high gain and distortion, based on what most reviewers shows. I am more on the clean side and not onto heavy distortions. Do you think the Boss IR2 also works for clean sounds? My options are ACS1 or DMS Simplifier, but the price for this boss is just crazy! thanks!
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the channel!!!
In my opinion it is possible to use the IR 2 also for clean sounds, even if it is true that the number of amps oriented to distorted / edge of distorted tones is greater. You may want to check out the list of amp available in the IR2 to have a better idea of what you may expect from clean tones.....by the way, in my review of the IR2, there are also some clean tones examples
Thank you so much!!!
The IR-2 flew off the shelves and now there is a 2 month waiting period in Europe (probably in America too). Any thoughts about comparing the IR-2 vs the IR-200?
Hi, I still have to do some direct test IR2 vs IR 200...but they should sound the same.
The IR200 has 8 guitar amps and 3 bass amps: I would suggest you to verify if the guitar amps missing in the IR 200 vs the IR 2 are important for you. If I remember it well the reverb in the IR 200 are studio room hall, where the IR 2 has a plate reverb....then the IR 200 is bigger heavier and more expensive.
If the IR 200 is fine as regards the aforementioned elements...then you can pull the trigger....
Thank you!
@LeoGibsonGtr the problem is that I tried to buy it using your link and it was sold out. So it will take me a while... And I thought about the IR200... but your opinion is always appreciated. Grazie
Thank you so much for using the link! Once you follow the link...even if you then purchase something else, I should get some commissions (and you don't pay anything more)...therefore, please feel free also to buy something else (like the IR 200).
Thank you so much!
Excellent video yet again Leo, thank you for this!
I recently exchanged the UA Ruby for the ir200 -- the Ruby sounded fantastic but dealing with the app really killed the experience for me, unfortunately. I have an Android phone and it had me wondering if UA is more Apple friendly. A real bummer.
Haven't received the ir200 yet but your videos help convince me to pick it up, so thank you! Can't wait to dig into it!
You are welcome and I'm happy that you appreciate the video!!!!
Thank you also for sharing your findings and your final choice...and yes..the Lion app drives me crazy...
Can confirm I’ve had zero issues on an iPhone sorry!
@@illgottengains1314 good for you! I mean the pedals sound absolutely amazing, but I'm learning that I'm a function over form kinda person. If it doesn't work easily I'll ditch it.
Glad you're having a better experience!
The app of the Two Notes Cab M+ is also a big failure, so my thoughts are similar: sell the Cab M+, get the IR-2 or even the IR-200.
Great video Leo, always good to see you play with your brother.
But do we hear your sister in the beginning of the demo song? Where is she??? :-)
Just kidding...about the video:
Really nice that although you are open about getting the Boss for free you still have an honest opinion on that, that's great.
About the test: missing some clean (Fender) tone-comparisons with the unit . Any reason not to do this?
Thanks Leo, alway a great and enjoyable source to watch!
😀😀😀... thank you, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!
I wanted to include the UAFX Lion in this video, and the Lion is a Plexi simulation where I think we should try the distorted tones and the edge of the brick up one. Furthermore the Lion does not have a Fender simulation (as I said, it is focused on the Plexi).
Thank you!
@@LeoGibsonGtr Thank you for your answer and explanation Leo.
You are welcome!
I agree with you about UAFX line in general. Some are hits, most are misses and there is nothing you can do to fix the misses. That’s very uncharacteristic for the company UA.
Thank you for sharing!
Lion sounds most like the Plexi to my ears. Would be interested to see the other two shot out with the Two Notes Opus.
Hi, thank you for sharing! Yes...maybe in an upcoming video.
Thanks!
amazing video as always!!
i was wondering, does the IR-2 also replace a preamp?
Hi, thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!! Thank you for taking the time to let me know: it means a lot to me!
Yes, you can disable the cab sim in the IR2
Thank you!
Yes it is the preamp because it is an amp sim. Then with a cab sim you can run it direct out to an interface, into a PA, or FRFR speakers
Great video. All the devices here sound dark and lifeless compared with the real amp. Maybe they could be tweaked to resolve this problem. I would only buy the IR-2 of these.
Hi, thank you so much; I'm happy that you like the video!
Thank you also for sharing your findings!
I think UA-cam compression tends to make audio sound lifeless. It's not the gear. This is definitely a need to be "in the room" type of demo.
Hi Leo, wonderful, sounds so good your song.
Wath do you prefer for a clean platform for pedals, the IR2, lion, dream, ruby or the Nux academy?
Should be dynamicly, in your face and touch sensitiv. Or better a analog device like the Carl Martin Ampster?
Thanks for everyone who answers.
Thank you so much, I'm really super happy that you like the music!!!
Well, I try not to give "absolute" answers here, not to influence you with my personal taste that might be different from yours.... furthermore it depends from the type of clean sound you want to have. For instance you might want a Fender like clean tone or a plexi one....I don't know....the only thing I may say, is that if you want a clean Fender like tone...the Lion and the Ruby might not be the right one for you.
Thank you, I'm sorry and I hope you understand.
Just a good clean sound, not just fender, that's egal. Witch whan du you prefer?
All of the pedals sounded really close. I guess if I had to pick one I would say the UAFX sounded a tiny amount closer to me. I like the value the IR2 gives though with headphones and effects loop.. Also, the midi on the iridium is nice. I still think I would pick the boss. ❤
HI, thank you for sharing your thoughts and your findings!!!
@@LeoGibsonGtr You're quite welcome my friend. Hope you had a great Easter!
Happy Easter to you too!!!
It is true that the Lion sounds kind of dark with the provided speakers, I fixed it by using the uafx ox stomp. For some reason the same speaker in the ox stomp and the lion sounds darker in the lion. Maybe it is equalized like that
Hi, thank you for sharing...this is really interesting...as I don't have the OX and therefore I can't try....thank you for sharing the info!!!!
I think this is the best product Boss have brought out in many years and I hope the result is that we get more products like it. I haven't really liked anything Boss have done in a long time, I'm not a fan of the Katana or the Boss MFX products but I really like this pedal. My only complaint is I think it is probably priced slightly high for what it is. I get that compared to these pedals it seems cheap but I think it really also needs to be considered next to MFX pedals both new and more importantly it's pretty much the same price as a Katana.
Thank you for sharing your opinions and your findings!
I tried the UA Lion in a store through similar Genelec studio monitors that I use at home, and felt it didn't do anything I couldn't get out of my Strymon Iridium + 3rd party IRs. Personally I have not found the Strymon to lack bass though - I usually run it below noon with the York Audio and ML Sound Lab IRs I use. It compares favorably to other modelers or Marshall style amps in my experience.
The Boss is hard to beat in value for money though, being about half the price of the others. Used Iridiums can be a good deal though, if your preferences are for classic Fender/Vox/Marshall tones.
Hi, thank you for sharing your findings!
Taken alone, maybe the iridium is fine as regards bass...but when I compared it to the real deal I found that it lacks bass....at least in my opinion.
Thank you!
Hey Leo! You can fix that by adding up to +6dB bass in the IR on Strymon Impulse Manager.
Awesome playing!
Thank you so much, I'm really super happy that you like the playing!!!
Great Riffs sir I love them all...but which option out of the three do you think would be the best to run direct from analog pedals into the mixing board in live situations...
Would love to Simplifier MK2 in this as well.
Hi, thank you for your suggestion!
Unfortunately I don't have it. I wrote them an email asking for a demo pedal...but they even didn't answer.
What about NUX Amp Academy vs Boss Ir-2?😊
Hi, I wanted to include it in this video...and actually I also did the comparison chart including it...but then I found that probably the Plexi is not among the amp sim of the Academy...therefore I will do another video comparing the Academy to the IR2
Thank you!
Actually I wanted to include it in this video...and I already did the comparison chart with also the Academy...but then I found out that maybe the Academy was missing the Plexi simulation...therefore I will do another video IR2 versus Academy.
Thank you
@@LeoGibsonGtr thanks a lot Leo! I have Amp Academy, but the Boss IR2 is very tempting too. Tbh, i think Boss IR2 is the simple version of Nux Amp Academy which have more live choice (A/B Ch and 3 Scenes each). Anyway, Leo you always great! Never tired of your contents.
Maybe the composition that I like the most... great song!
Thank you Antonio!!!! I'm really happy that you like the song!
Thank you for taking the time to letting me know: It means a lot to me!!!
Boy did that amp kick all those pedals’ asses! No comparison at all! Wow
Hi, thank you for sharing.
@@LeoGibsonGtr Ciao Leo, I wish to know if you agree on this. I heard the examples on quality headphones and my studio monitors (by the way, congratulation on leaving the examples to always fade out naturally! During the sustain and fadeout is where the transients made the biggest difference to my ears. The difference between pedals and amp when you pick (attack vs decay) the guitars was negligible) and I did not expect to hear such a great difference. This was due to most of the comparison videis in UA-cam, so kudos to you for having such a scientific approach to your process. To me it became clear that these pedals still require a more advanced technology. These companies still haven't nailed the complexities of transients and harmonics interacting and creating more transients and feedback plus sustain. I was really surprised of how much my ears picked up in terms of subtlety in sound from your experiment. Thank you.
Okay so I'm only up to 9:26 but... the IR-2 is the only one with an effects loop, has the best latency, is the only one that can be used as an interface, draws the least power, and is the cheapest!
Hi, thank you for sharing!
Great vocals mate 🎉 class
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you like the vocals!!!
@@LeoGibsonGtr Love it mate xx keep on rocking it
Another very useful video. Thank you. Leo, Is there any chance you could prepare a comprehensive video on the H90 latency? 1/2 the H90; both halves of the H90; with one mono insert; with two mono inserts; with one stereo insert; etc? No one has touched that and your latency videos are so helpful. Thank you for considering it!
Thank you, I'm happy that you find the video useful!
With H90 you mean Eventide? Unfortunately I don't have it...and it is crazy expensive...maybe in the future.
Thank you!
@@LeoGibsonGtr Yes, Eventide. Maybe some day. Thanks for considering it.
What do you think of the nux amp academy with respect to these three?
Hi, it's another great option...Initially I wanted to included in the comparison....but then I notice that it was not offering a Plexi. I think I will do another comparison video vs the IR2.
Thank you!
yes please ! make some video regarding the Nux. I really liked the pedalboard you made with it!!! great job Leo. Thank you so much
You are welcome, and I'm happy that you appreciate the pedalboard!!
When using the IR-2 as an interface can you hear the DAW playback AND have DIRECT monitoring through the headphone jack? I was very bummed that the Tonex pedal could not do this seemingly obvious thing
Leo, with a limited budget, do you think I'm better served with an Ampero 2 or similar multi fx comparing to these pedals? I know we can get good tones with all of them, but what about the feel, something you talked on this video. Do they compare?
Hi, it's an hard question to answer....I would say that in terms of tone also the Ampero 2 is very good, and you get also all the effects...
Thank you!