Thanks for watching guys, keep in mind that it's not easy to make a comparison like this. IF I would've tried to make the units sound exactly alike, I would've needed to start somewhere, and with that I think whichever I would've started with would get the advantage, trying to mimic the one with the other since they're modeled differently would've been more unfair than this test to be honest. Of course I could've gotten more into detail, like letting both units run through a power amp and cab, but there's just so many variables of application I could've set them up in. I chose to go direct, because that would be the main application that people would use I think. Before you take sides and decide which one is the best for you, remember that I'm not you. You will not sound the same like me. See this more as a guide line if you're into metal and you're looking into one of these products. And please behave like adults when commenting. Best conversations are the ones where both sides can be gentlemen about it. It is OK to like both sides! Thanks for watching!
Sounds like the Helix is more hissy and harsh by design. One thing is for sure, the impulse response makes 60% of the job. Anyway, thanks a lot for the impulse response, it's way better than any they got on stock. I am gonna try it right away on the Line6 Pod pro (that I bought when it was revolutionary), I am sure it will give it a completely new life.
I've owned both, and enjoyed what both had to offer. The AX8 was damn near impossible to get a patch made without the editor. The Helix had pretty incredible and straight-forward editing on the unit itself. The color coding LEDs and scribble strips were also really handy. The AX8 sounded amazing once I got it all up and running, but to be honest, it was only marginally better than the Helix to my ears. Granted, I don't play the same style of metal Ola plays, but I know what tones I want. Both the Helix and AX8 delivered in spades for MY uses. I ended up keeping the Helix in the long run: I enjoyed the programmability and ease of use just that much. I can definitely see why some would want to keep the AX8 though. Both are pretty great products, but I think they're aimed for different players.
I feel like the AX8 has a much better low end, the Helix was quite hissy. But just personal preference, these comments are way to fanboy at the moment however. Its the guitarists PS4 vs Xbox.
That static "distorted hiss" you hear that can be heard even through palm mutes is a digital artefact of signal processing. Both have it, Axe8 much less especially on the 5150 model. Hardly a fanboy discussion, AX8 objectively has less digital artefacts.
One thing you didn't mention is that the Helix has the capability to record via USB, which the AX8 does not. This also adds a price to the AX8 if you don't have an external sound card at home. Plus, the Helix also has XLR in with phantom power, which means that you also use a condenser mic (or any microphone in general) to record with. But I agree, the AX8 sounds better. Mainly, it's the features of the Helix that won me over.
The Ax8 took the win right away for me. The tones were a little dark but it had that beautiful note definition in the midrange. Personal fav was the Ax8 Engl through the 2x12 cab
I think what Ola has highlighted here is that the modeling of each amp is slightly different from each manufacturer. Does one sound higher quality or better than the other? Not really in my opinion. Any of the tones from the demo could be achieved from either product with a little tweaking, they just differed in their "raw" state. Some had more bass, some had slightly accentuated mid ranges but all were very usable starting tones...Helix is getting a bashing on here!
Here's a guy who understands the comparison. I also think the Helix is getting way more bashing than it deserves, it IS a great product. I could've spent days perfecting each sound if I wanted, but I don't have time with that. I could probably get even more awesome sounds if I spent some more time with both units. Bottom line is, even if the user interface is quicker and easier on the Helix, It was easier to come up with a better sounding sound faster on the AX8. With a bit of work, the Helix will sound great as well.
I guess we are drawn to your channel because of the genre of music and as such the comment that you obtained a sound quicker on the Ax8 could be seen as an endorsement, but I don't have your experience and pretty sure I can make both sound like a can of wasps. For me the Helix interface is very intuitive and I feel I would make progress quicker with it. Finally Fractal have obviously seen the potential of Helix and therefore positioned their unit in the market accordingly
Sorry Ola, but that's not people being harsh, it's just 2016 and when you spend thousands of euros you want a preset that sounds awesome from the get go. You don't buy a Ferrari that goes 10 Km/h with a sticker that says "download a patch or tweak it yourself" :D
Yeah there is something to be said about hardware that can be dialed in easily and intuitively. I agree that line 6 gets more hate than it deserves. The ax8 does a good job of creating a good sound that you can add your own expression to as opposed to the helix which requires finding good sound.
Yeah for sure, I don't a deal with any of these brands. In that sense Its an honest comparison. People can always agree or disagree, or make their own comparison :)
Gotta say Ola, I really enjoyed this format of video, I'd love to see more of this style in the future if there are products that call for it. I'm just in the works of building a live rig and its really nice to see such a comprehensive comparison with A-B audio, so thank you.
Thanks for this awesome comparison, Ola! Here's what stood out to me: * The AX8 impulses that Ola chose are way darker than the Helix impulses. * When using Ola's own impulse, the simulations were more similar. * ...But in the Rectifier and 5150 simulation the Helix was bottom heavy. In the Engl, it was top heavy. The AX8 Impulses are probably more mix-ready, but with Ola's impulse I have a harder time choosing which I prefer. Both seem like pretty solid tools.
At the end of the day it all comes down to what you think sounds best to you. I have an old Digitech GSP1101, got some sweet patches that I have created. Every time i turn it on, it gives me the same awesome sound. I rarely change anything, which leaves me more time to play rather then spending hours tweaking knobs...
Fractal has the best sound / tone for sure. But you be surprised how good that fizziness can blend in a mix. Try the Grindmachine vst plugin demo (sounds a lot like Helix) and in a mix it's just so good. Even though it has a lot of fizz / static in the sound.
Jesus I'm blown away by the Helix. Didn't expect it to sound that good in comparison. Line 6 definitely got their shit together and caught up in the amp modelling game.
AX8 sounded better to me. Even if the handling is a bit awkward, in the long run you have to learn to navigate and handle either of the units and at that point the AX8 keeps the upper hand since it simply sounds more realistic to me.
Having used the Helix: you barely have to "learn to navigate and handle" it. They've really made a huge leap in user friendliness. That said, I haven't used the AX8 so no idea how good/crap that UI is...
You've always had great production in all of your videos, but you keep stepping up your game! This comparison was professional, informative without dragging on, and beautifully executed. Wonderful job, Ola!
Helix is designed to cut through the mix so it sounds hissy unless you tell it not to... but put that tone in a mix and it’ll be right in your face where warmer models that sound better solo will flat out disappear in the mix...
@@skc1003 It depends on what you're doing. Start by bumping the mids and dropping the highs in the global EQ... It's setup from the factory to process vocals as well as guitar and bass, so turn all effects off and set the global EQ until you have a good clean sound, if the cleans don't sound right then adding more distortion and reverb will only make it worse...
Both units sound excellent.I own the Helix and of course,like any guitar modeling unit you will need to make the presets your own.There are so many variables that will affect the tone,and you will also tweak it to your playing and style of music.Between Ir's,cabs,mic placement,using 1 or more pedals in front of the amp,parametric eq(which I ALWAYS use),etc,these can all be used to make a good tone.I never owned an Ax8,,so I can't comment,but I have owned Atomic Amplifire and have owned many high end tube amps.I play progressive metal and some fusion,and I am getting some really great tones out of my Helix.Both units are just tools.Use whatever inspires you to write and play some cool music! Cheers Ola,thanks for the awesome video!I still would like to encourage you to continue your Solar project,it really was MY favorite thing you do,although your other stuff is great too!
What I find surprising is that Line 6 has gone from the pod - a toy for kids in garage bands to being within spitting distance of Fractal Audio. Sadly it's hard to remove the preconceived notions from someone like say, Glenn Fricker that thinks "Line 6 it's crap" then goes out and tries one of the crappiest and oldest products they have, a spider II and falls into confirmation bias.
Really enjoyed the video Ola, thank you. These are obviously very competitive units and many people have done comparisons. I liked hearing them head-to-head with your tweaking work and am looking forward to loading the presets up too.
I think you should've said that the ax8 sounds were actually the helix and so on. People would still say the ax8 sounds better. My point is that they sound different but not necessarily one better over the other. Yet people here are stating fanboy nonsense. Thanks the comparison and the video, much appreciated. Sorry for the uninvited but expected bullshit around the comments.
No, there was a clear difference between the two that made the choice for many pretty obvious. Want fizzy cheap sounding tone for the same price as the clear crisp sounding tone? Talk about paying for labels. What ever it takes to be a contrarian..
Exoplanets Which one? The AX8 or Helix? My first comment was in response to John Yang about the Helix blowing the shit out of the AX8. I thought I made it pretty clear that the Helix is not better sounding than the AX8.
Ola E..... always doing exactly what everyone wants to know! Thanks man. I think this basically came out as expected - AX8 just sounds wayyyyy better IMO.
AlexisGitarre I'm in a little bit of trap right now between the too, and all the comments here aren't making it easier lol, but you think it sounds better than your Axe Fx. Recording is no problem either way I think, but for a live standpoint, have you ever tried the Helix live?
I do slightly prefer the AX8. The AX8 is a bit chunkier and less high end fizz. That being said, the difference I prefer is in the EQ curve...Which makes me wonder, if you played with the EQ on the Helix, if you could match the sightly better sound of the AX8? I think the trick is, to make the Helix sound chunkier with less high end treble/fizz, without at the same time making it sound muffled and flat.
That's a bit overstated. They are both in the same league. Helix has much better routing options, and I've seen reviews that have the Helix coming out on top in the sound department. Very subjective thing here - but as far as DSP capability - they are both great. I demo'd both these units and ended up with the Helix because it plays better in my live rig - I use it with a Mesa JP-2C. Also, the expression pedal really tip the scale towards the Helix for me - it's the first on board expression pedal that feels and works like the real deal to me. I wouldn't have been disappointed with the AX8 either. Also, there are a few other things with the Helix that Ola doesn't mention - such as the USB interface with turns the Helix into a home studio swiss army knife. The one thing I will definitely hand to the AX8 is the on board cabinet models are way better than the Helix. It's not a big deal for me live seeing I use a tube amp, but until I loaded custom IR's into the Helix, I was less then thrilled with it for studio work. Once I did it opened it right up.
Yes i'm very happy with my Helix too, Helix is the flagship of line 6 Ax8 is a machine for poor people that can't afford Axe fx II, Fractal top user has the Axe Fx. Ax8 is like Firehawk for Line6 a second line product not the top shelf. Ax8 is the light version of axe fx like Protools and Protools LE or Cubase and Cubase LE.
I have to say, this comparison felt a lot more thorough than some of your others in the past and I can really appreciate that. I felt you did a great job on this (not that you haven't in the past).
Keep in mind, Ola used the Blue/Orange channel on the 5153 and Recto, respectively, while the Helix amps were the lead channels of both amps. Hell, the ENGL's were completely different amps. That being said, Helix doesn't sound good here, but I own one and it's a lot better clear and organic-sounding than it is here. Please don't believe from these limited presets that it's some fizzed-out box that can't do metal. Far from it....
Have resisted things like this for 16 years but plan to buy one next week. I can't wait. I really appreciate that you mention that the helix is easier to use. My plan is to get it for at home and maybe get the axe III down the road. I am 100% NOT tech savvy. Thank you again
Because a they're two different products with two different goals in mind - the kemper is meant to focus on /profiling/ amps, not modelling. The Kemper is the kind of thing you'd using when you're out touring, and you get your tone from using 3 different huge tube amps for different tones, but you just can't swing that live on a small tour, but you want to be able to take your EXACT sound with you (for example, Rob Chapman uses his signature Victory heads, the Silverback and Red Dwarf - neither are available in any amp modeler on the market, but he can profile them with the kemper.) It's also got /some/ built in effects, but not a whole lot, and while they get the job done, if effects are a big thing for you, you would want a separate effects unit or pedal board That being said, something like the Axe-FX or AX8 or Line 6 Helix is meant to be a "Rig in a box" type thing - you find an amp model you like, you put in your effects, you chuck this in your a bag or rack, and call it a day. You're pretty limited on what amps you can and can't have with these, whereas with the Kemper, as long as you can find the amp, you can profile it into your little Lunchbox of Doom
Actually Kemper has effects as well, the only thing it's lacking is the GUI where you set up your effects chain and shit. You have a little less control. These things are absolute monsters, Bias, Kemper, Axe-FX and now Line6 stepped up their game... The only problem so far is that they're crazy expensive. But it will change. I bought my used axefx ultra for around €1300 last year, now they sell for around 1100 because of the Ax8. The price will drop sooner or later
I think they are just similar. And ax8 is better with stock everything. While helix is more close to real response eg with the impulse of ola's own cab. It sounds much better.
+John Yang no I go with what sounds better. You're the one defending the sim that sounds like an 1970s practice amp. The helix is bad from an objective standpoint unless you're going for that shitty grindcore tone.
He just did something that could help everybody. I would try an Orange Micro terror + a Tube Screamer + HIS impulse response. It's a 150$ budget and I bet it will sound better than any Helix preset.
shatalg The Orange Micro Terror is the cheapest valve (on the pre) ampli that came in my mind. You can find various reviews and tests on it, on this channel as well.
and im here using my axe fx ultra with third party IR's and couldnt he more happier,ola's right that the IR's play a very big role when it comes to guitar tones,both of these units could sound similar to each other and the differences will be unnoticeable in a full mix
Great video! Unbiased and systematic. Listening to your recordings, I think I prefer the AX8 for the stock sounds but maybe the Helix when you add your impulse. I have the Helix and am very happy with it though.
I think the AX8, but if the helix is more user friendly ...I will have to think on it, I think AX8 and add a wah pedal, but not sure just yet... GREAT VIDEO COMPARISON !!
Seems like we guitarists spend more time debating what gear is better than we do actually creating unique music. No big deal to me cuz all the debating just teaches me more about what gear does what and how to set stuff up and dial it in. Thumbs up.
I'm biased because I own an axe fx, but the helix doesn't sound much better than an hd500 or an XT pro for that matter. The line 6 just sounds like it's high passed at 200Hz with a shit ton of fizz.
Ax8 is clear winner in my book, warmer and doesn't have the harsh fizz that helix has but third party ir's can fix that and you demonstrated that well. At the end of the day the ax8 has absolutely top-tier effects and the amp models barely edge out the helix. Great review. The "digitial" part was great.
The Helix isn't adjusted correctly for the comparison, it needs some global EQ adjustments. Not really a fair comparison vid between the 2. The Helix can sound just as good if its properly adjusted. The Helix interface and features blows the AX8 away.
What kind of global EQ adjustments? Been feeling hopeless trying to get a solid tone out of Helix Native, and frankly I'm getting closer to picking up a Used Axe FX Ultra at this point.
Stellar review. I absolutely agree with you that the sound of the AX8 is a bit better than the sound of the Helix. The Helix seems to be a bit "nasaly" and lacks a bit of punch compared to the AX8, at least in my opinion.
The Helix sounds like it has a lot of hiss and a lot of treble with little to no low end and the AX8 just sounds like it has balls and a ton of low end. The only effect where Helix came close to the AX8 was the 5150. Your impulses made the ENGL on both the Helix and AX8 sound pretty identical. Great video Ola!
+DeOrestes right.. that must be a line 6 employee lol the helix sounded like garbage especially with the impulse. The 5150 sounded pretty much unusable.
Interesting, the AX8 sounded better through the stock cab impulses but I preferred the Helix through your cab sims. I'll have to give this a couple more listens.
I know this is an old vid, but thanks Ola. I've got both the AX8 and an HX Stomp. For the life of me, the HX Stomp has something annoying about it to me. It's like a combination of putting a blanket over it and then making it hissy. I've got a riff I recorded with a high gain patch using the Engl Savage model (called the Angle Severe) on the AX8 and am trying to get something close with the HX Stomp. However, I can't get the same clarity as the AX8. Granted, the HX Stomp ANGL Meteor model is based on the Powerball, not the Savage. However, I can't get any amp on the HX Stomp to sound as good as the AX8 Angle Severe on the AX8. This video helped confirm the issue I have with the HX Stomp. Alas, I am recording direct using the HX Stomp and am not set up for that with the AX8 right now, so I am stuck. I've been on the list for the FM9, which will allow direct recording, but they're out of stock for the foreseeable future due to the semiconductor shortage. Either way, thanks Ola. Always like your vids.
The difference is night and day. Hes just not allowed to say it so bluntly in this video. The Line6 is great if you're just a kid and dont know the difference or if you just want all your amps to sound like they're coming thought your cellphone.
What i meant was it looks like a professional quality review and normally you have to be unbiased and try to please both companies so that you get sent more products to review in the future. Thats normally the way things go.
First of all you need to use only IR when compare the units AX8 cant change mics and move the mics on their IR they use static high res IR,s the most important factor in a guitar soiund i.m.o..Helixes uses what they call hybrid cabs.So compare the units using Helix hybrid and AX8,s IR is not fair.Also you can filter out alot of fizzinezz in Helix in cabs.Ola doesnt seem to know that..Secondly there is a video where there is a fair comparison using Helix and AX8 with same amps and same settings (not like in this video where the settings and also amps is different did you notice that?) and in that video they sounded very very similar an all clips..I posted the link here but somone deleted it??Who maybe the owner of this channel so whos aloud to post a fair video..Do you want to see it PM me as i guess Ola or whover that is aloud to show fair comparison between the units delete it again if i post the link..
Contrived testing?Well you cant compare it like Ola did first dial in tone on both units and not even use the same amps (5150) or chanell (Rectifier) or settings on those amps and then run it trhue the same IR and then say it will show how good they are at modelling. Of course it will sound way different and also on helix you cat use built in cabs for Metal IR is always better thats why Fractal using IR. You can make Axe sound crap too you know? But its way easyer to sound crap on Helix especially if you play Metal if you use stock cabs they need to have LP HP filter on them and filter out all frequences under 100 hz and all frquences over 6000 hz and even then its not so good as when you use IR thats why i always use IR instead of stock cabs Ola didnt seem to know that you can filter out frequenses in the cabs. The technology when coding amps i guess is almost the same (hence why they sound so similar when you dial in the same setting and run it thrue the same IR) But Fractal is using the cpu,s different than what Line 6 does. Also reverbs pitch synth and some other effects in AX8 is way better than in Helix say those who owns both. But i guess all other effects is on par i only use overdrive dist phaser chrous delay and wahwah myself But remember Helix is on firmware 2.0.1 Fractal is on firmware 23 so they have got rid of many odd things in sounds over they years. I never tested Helix with 4 cm only use it in studio But i know of many people who does it and say it sounds awesome. But most people is using Helix with FRFR speaker.. Compared to XT (I own one myself) is night and day Helix is really top notch and i really hope the future updates will make it sound even better than today especially the more high gain sounds We have a great dialog on TGP and FB with the people who is working with the unit so they are aware of what we ask for when it comes to improvment.
I have a POD HD Pro (that has some of the same amps/cabs) that I use for my band Atmospheres, but hearing the comparison like this, I really dig the AX8. It has a more realistic cab feel to it. The low end respons is more realistic. One the other hand, the low end is something a FOH or studio engineer would shave off a little, to make room for other instruments. Therefore I think the Helix is my personal "winner" because with some tweaking, I'm sure you would get pretty close to the realism of the AX8. Either way, it's a personal thing. I have love for both
They're dirt cheap, great for practice and demos. Also for beginner amps they're pretty great. New modellers surpassed them but they were great for the price
Having owned both of these products, I think this review pretty much nailed it. Both units are good, with the main difference being the AX8 sounds better, while the Helix is easier to use, without computer software.
i think we need a part 2 of this vs... the live aplication. Compare the live usage of the units, the usage of pedals, the lag (or lack of lag) in switching presets or scenes, and stuff like that. great video nevertheless.
While I think the overall sound goes to AX8 in this situation, I think they are both very close. For usability and features (the inclusion of the expression pedal, more available connection options) I think I would choose the Helix as it seems to better suit my needs. Would love to have either though if I could actually afford to get one right now! Great video!
When i first looked into digital modeling i couldn't make up my mind between the Kemper or the Ax FX. The best advice i got is that both will get you to where you want to go, it's how you get there that's different. Granted they both have strengths & weaknesses, but at the end of the day, given enough time, you should be able to find your tone. I see these both in this category, perhaps the Helix needs a bit of time to 'mature' as it's the new kid on the block but I'm sure Line 6 have that under control. BTW i got a Kemper, & it's insane how good it is for me, my mate got an AX Fx & the tones he gets out of that is amazing....
The recto on the Helix sounds more forward/mid-focused, but the rest of the Helix patches are fizzy and lack the bell-like chime on the higher notes that the AX8 maintains. Notes ring out better on the AX8 and you can hear individual notes, adding more of an organic/tube-like feel. That said, the AX8 is a tad more scooped, perhaps at the expense of not sounding as fizzy.
Hard to choose, AX8 sounds just a little better to my ears, but line 6 helix is cool looking and user friendly IMO. Great review and demo Ola, I appreciate it.
In the initial tone comparison I would 100% have to give it to the Ax8 (no surprise) considering fractal usually manufactures better equipment than line 6 imo. The Helix sounds very saturated, fizzy and unnatural compared to the full body sound of the Ax8. However, I believe that the tone characteristics of each would merge well with one another. The built in foot pedal and easy to use features is clutch with the Helix but overall I would definitely pick the Ax8! Nice upload Ola!
This video made me send my helix back. Cleans were great but just didn't do high gain well, even with IRs and weirdly enough it was easier to setup a hd500 (i found the helix joystick annoying and easier to use amp controls on hd500 rather than small knobs for each amp setting on Helix) I really wanted to like Helix aswell
I thought the units flip-flopped when they went from cab simulation to cabinet mic.. I was laughing at how it was an actual mirror image when changing... soooo, I am still TORN! hahaha... Great work Ola, as always! You are an inspiration after hearing your story.. have been watching you from the beginning, keep up the great work!!
Amazing difference the IR switch made to the Helix. The AX8 didn't seem to improve as much, which means their stock IRs are definitely better than the Helix. The AX8 sounded better with the Stock IRs with these presets, but when the IRs were changed it seemed to level the playing field considerably. Line6 has released new firmware since this video as well as a new set of IRs. Wonder if they helped much from the original stock IRs. Amazing how much of a difference that the IRs make. Great comparison. Can't wait to upgrade my HD500 to the Helix. Shame the AX8 didn't come with an Expression pedal. Seems a bit odd they didn't include it with a floor unit.
One thing you mentioned was the Helix is easier to use, which with Line 6 stuff I wouldn't doubt. As far as total features however, does the Helix have as much? The Ax8 for instance you can swap tubes in the pre amp and power amp section, change negative gain and a tone of other settings to really get the best tone possible. I would say while Helix has the advantage on usability, that is probably why, because it isn't quite has deep either. Another thing to consider, if the expression pedal on the helix blows, you are screwed and need to get a new one. I actually appreciate the fact that the AX8 doesn't have one, so I can pick my own to go with it :).
They both sound great. Using the same IR makes them sound almost the same. For my needs the Helix is the best fit, but if it were only about sound I would chose the AX8.
The Fractal sounds a bit better and maybe for recording I would choose that but I have a Helix that I use in a cover band and am willing to sacrifice a bit of sound in a live setting for the flexibility, ease of use, and layout of the Helix. I have yet to find something it can't do (knock on wood), and it does it all intuitively. There is a drop-out when switching presets which might annoy some people, but again, in a live situation it's barely noticeable and it's a small price to pay for the convenience of everything else.
Awesome... but still nothing beats a Line 6 Spider amp with a Boss Metalzone front of the amp.
Megat Yaesree you serious?😅
And legend says he still needed more treble.
LMFAOOOO
Lol!!!
Spider V series, you mean. The Spider VI actually sounds pretty decent.
Thanks for watching guys, keep in mind that it's not easy to make a comparison like this. IF I would've tried to make the units sound exactly alike, I would've needed to start somewhere, and with that I think whichever I would've started with would get the advantage, trying to mimic the one with the other since they're modeled differently would've been more unfair than this test to be honest. Of course I could've gotten more into detail, like letting both units run through a power amp and cab, but there's just so many variables of application I could've set them up in. I chose to go direct, because that would be the main application that people would use I think.
Before you take sides and decide which one is the best for you, remember that I'm not you. You will not sound the same like me. See this more as a guide line if you're into metal and you're looking into one of these products.
And please behave like adults when commenting. Best conversations are the ones where both sides can be gentlemen about it. It is OK to like both sides!
Thanks for watching!
New Feared song "My Own Impulse" coming soon
Do you have the DI track? If so could you make it available?
there's no DI track I recorded same riff over and over with every setting used.
Ola you are awesome! I like the AX8 better
You should make some d-digi-digital djent with your pronunciation mistakes Ola :)
otherwise, AX8 rules!
Sounds like the Helix is more hissy and harsh by design.
One thing is for sure, the impulse response makes 60% of the job.
Anyway, thanks a lot for the impulse response, it's way better than any they got on stock.
I am gonna try it right away on the Line6 Pod pro (that I bought when it was revolutionary), I am sure it will give it a completely new life.
In the stock cab comparison i prefer the AX8, but with your IR i prefer the Helix.
Its not about which its better, both are awesome.
I've owned both, and enjoyed what both had to offer.
The AX8 was damn near impossible to get a patch made without the editor. The Helix had pretty incredible and straight-forward editing on the unit itself. The color coding LEDs and scribble strips were also really handy.
The AX8 sounded amazing once I got it all up and running, but to be honest, it was only marginally better than the Helix to my ears. Granted, I don't play the same style of metal Ola plays, but I know what tones I want. Both the Helix and AX8 delivered in spades for MY uses.
I ended up keeping the Helix in the long run: I enjoyed the programmability and ease of use just that much. I can definitely see why some would want to keep the AX8 though. Both are pretty great products, but I think they're aimed for different players.
I feel like the AX8 has a much better low end, the Helix was quite hissy. But just personal preference, these comments are way to fanboy at the moment however. Its the guitarists PS4 vs Xbox.
PC is better duh
@@andromedasiddhik2792 mouse and keyboard ftw
That static "distorted hiss" you hear that can be heard even through palm mutes is a digital artefact of signal processing. Both have it, Axe8 much less especially on the 5150 model. Hardly a fanboy discussion, AX8 objectively has less digital artefacts.
So what’s the pc master race? 😂
One thing you didn't mention is that the Helix has the capability to record via USB, which the AX8 does not. This also adds a price to the AX8 if you don't have an external sound card at home. Plus, the Helix also has XLR in with phantom power, which means that you also use a condenser mic (or any microphone in general) to record with.
But I agree, the AX8 sounds better. Mainly, it's the features of the Helix that won me over.
The Ax8 took the win right away for me. The tones were a little dark but it had that beautiful note definition in the midrange. Personal fav was the Ax8 Engl through the 2x12 cab
I think what Ola has highlighted here is that the modeling of each amp is slightly different from each manufacturer. Does one sound higher quality or better than the other? Not really in my opinion. Any of the tones from the demo could be achieved from either product with a little tweaking, they just differed in their "raw" state. Some had more bass, some had slightly accentuated mid ranges but all were very usable starting tones...Helix is getting a bashing on here!
Here's a guy who understands the comparison. I also think the Helix is getting way more bashing than it deserves, it IS a great product. I could've spent days perfecting each sound if I wanted, but I don't have time with that. I could probably get even more awesome sounds if I spent some more time with both units. Bottom line is, even if the user interface is quicker and easier on the Helix, It was easier to come up with a better sounding sound faster on the AX8. With a bit of work, the Helix will sound great as well.
I guess we are drawn to your channel because of the genre of music and as such the comment that you obtained a sound quicker on the Ax8 could be seen as an endorsement, but I don't have your experience and pretty sure I can make both sound like a can of wasps. For me the Helix interface is very intuitive and I feel I would make progress quicker with it. Finally Fractal have obviously seen the potential of Helix and therefore positioned their unit in the market accordingly
Sorry Ola, but that's not people being harsh, it's just 2016 and when you spend thousands of euros you want a preset that sounds awesome from the get go.
You don't buy a Ferrari that goes 10 Km/h with a sticker that says "download a patch or tweak it yourself" :D
Yeah there is something to be said about hardware that can be dialed in easily and intuitively. I agree that line 6 gets more hate than it deserves. The ax8 does a good job of creating a good sound that you can add your own expression to as opposed to the helix which requires finding good sound.
Yeah for sure, I don't a deal with any of these brands. In that sense Its an honest comparison. People can always agree or disagree, or make their own comparison :)
AX8 by a mile. although they both sounded good, especially with the Ola impulse
ax8 is generally better with stock cab. Helix sounds much better with ola's own impulse.
The 5150 helix with the impulse sounded terrible though..
No. Tonal wise it sounds good. Just a bit too much gain..
All.ax8 sounds bad with the impulse idk why.
I don't own either product but to my untrained ears.. i preferred the helix. Not sure why the axe sounded more muffled. Both were reasonable good.
Gotta say Ola, I really enjoyed this format of video, I'd love to see more of this style in the future if there are products that call for it. I'm just in the works of building a live rig and its really nice to see such a comprehensive comparison with A-B audio, so thank you.
+AlarmCopter thank you, I would love to do more if people want me to
Thanks for this awesome comparison, Ola! Here's what stood out to me:
* The AX8 impulses that Ola chose are way darker than the Helix impulses.
* When using Ola's own impulse, the simulations were more similar.
* ...But in the Rectifier and 5150 simulation the Helix was bottom heavy. In the Engl, it was top heavy.
The AX8 Impulses are probably more mix-ready, but with Ola's impulse I have a harder time choosing which I prefer. Both seem like pretty solid tools.
At the end of the day it all comes down to what you think sounds best to you. I have an old Digitech GSP1101, got some sweet patches that I have created. Every time i turn it on, it gives me the same awesome sound. I rarely change anything, which leaves me more time to play rather then spending hours tweaking knobs...
I'm sure the Helix does some great things, but high gain territory might not be its forte.
äh, drop b?
Line6 stuff...
When you lowpass filter the highs to about 13khz it basically cleans out the hiss and sounds really good
Fractal Hands down, the Helix has a nasty fizziness that will need to be cut in the mix...
Fractal has the best sound / tone for sure. But you be surprised how good that fizziness can blend in a mix.
Try the Grindmachine vst plugin demo (sounds a lot like Helix) and in a mix it's just so good. Even though it has a lot of fizz / static in the sound.
Yeah you're right guitar tone should definitely be heard in the mix, alone it's always deceptive ...
No. Ax8 is the one has the mkre harsh treble. The stock cab sim of helix is bullshit. But sounds much better with ola's own impulse.much better.
I have the Helix and all the high end 'fizz' you talk about is easily removed using an EQ block. You can get to sound exactly the same.
Jesus I'm blown away by the Helix. Didn't expect it to sound that good in comparison. Line 6 definitely got their shit together and caught up in the amp modelling game.
AX8 sounded better to me. Even if the handling is a bit awkward, in the long run you have to learn to navigate and handle either of the units and at that point the AX8 keeps the upper hand since it simply sounds more realistic to me.
Having used the Helix: you barely have to "learn to navigate and handle" it. They've really made a huge leap in user friendliness. That said, I haven't used the AX8 so no idea how good/crap that UI is...
Its a great UI, it's just very detailed and deep.
You've always had great production in all of your videos, but you keep stepping up your game! This comparison was professional, informative without dragging on, and beautifully executed. Wonderful job, Ola!
When Ola switched to his own impulse they sounded quite similar. But with the stock impulses, the AX8 sounded better imo.
Cause ola is OG and better than premade impulses!!
I hear a lot of hiss noise and a thinner tone for Helix. Fatter tone and less hiss in the Fractal Audio AX8. I think AX8 wins!!!
For me Helix sounds very hissy and plastic. Ax is just way more natural.
Agreed !
i think the opposite
well for me helix sounds worst
Kei Synester Well, you think the same then.
arekb5 lol i guess i do
I liked the ax8 using the stock impulse.
I liked the helix with your impulse better tho
Great video Ola. I thought the AX8 sounded a bit better to my ears :-)
Helix is designed to cut through the mix so it sounds hissy unless you tell it not to... but put that tone in a mix and it’ll be right in your face where warmer models that sound better solo will flat out disappear in the mix...
How to tell it to not to?
@@skc1003 It depends on what you're doing. Start by bumping the mids and dropping the highs in the global EQ... It's setup from the factory to process vocals as well as guitar and bass, so turn all effects off and set the global EQ until you have a good clean sound, if the cleans don't sound right then adding more distortion and reverb will only make it worse...
I'd start by boosting the mids about 3db and rolling off the highs at about 6k to 8k
AX8 all the way. Helix sounds like melted cheese. AX8 vs Kemper next plz :)
Both units sound excellent.I own the Helix and of course,like any guitar modeling unit you will need to make the presets your own.There are so many variables that will affect the tone,and you will also tweak it to your playing and style of music.Between Ir's,cabs,mic placement,using 1 or more pedals in front of the amp,parametric eq(which I ALWAYS use),etc,these can all be used to make a good tone.I never owned an Ax8,,so I can't comment,but I have owned Atomic Amplifire and have owned many high end tube amps.I play progressive metal and some fusion,and I am getting some really great tones out of my Helix.Both units are just tools.Use whatever inspires you to write and play some cool music! Cheers Ola,thanks for the awesome video!I still would like to encourage you to continue your Solar project,it really was MY favorite thing you do,although your other stuff is great too!
I was surprised to find that I actually liked the sound of the helix over the AXE8
The Engl sims are probably the best sounding to my ears. Full, gutsy, sharp in all the right places. Love the content you post Ola!
What I find surprising is that Line 6 has gone from the pod - a toy for kids in garage bands to being within spitting distance of Fractal Audio. Sadly it's hard to remove the preconceived notions from someone like say, Glenn Fricker that thinks "Line 6 it's crap" then goes out and tries one of the crappiest and oldest products they have, a spider II and falls into confirmation bias.
Really enjoyed the video Ola, thank you. These are obviously very competitive units and many people have done comparisons. I liked hearing them head-to-head with your tweaking work and am looking forward to loading the presets up too.
I’m sure after sitting down dialing in the helix you will find a tone you love
I wasn't impressed with either until you used your cab impulse, then tbh both sounded good to my ears (apart from the first AX8 rec).
I think you should've said that the ax8 sounds were actually the helix and so on. People would still say the ax8 sounds better. My point is that they sound different but not necessarily one better over the other. Yet people here are stating fanboy nonsense. Thanks the comparison and the video, much appreciated. Sorry for the uninvited but expected bullshit around the comments.
Exactly. Stock wise I agree ax8 is generally better. But with ola's own impulse helix blows the shit out of ax8. People just bullshit and stupid.
No, there was a clear difference between the two that made the choice for many pretty obvious. Want fizzy cheap sounding tone for the same price as the clear crisp sounding tone? Talk about paying for labels. What ever it takes to be a contrarian..
With Ola's impulse, the Helix blows the shit out of the AX8? Go clean the wax out of your ears or set down the bong.
Exoplanets Which one? The AX8 or Helix? My first comment was in response to John Yang about the Helix blowing the shit out of the AX8. I thought I made it pretty clear that the Helix is not better sounding than the AX8.
+Keith McKissick never mind I read it as you saying the helix blows the ax8 out of the water I didn't know you were just quoting someone else
Ola E..... always doing exactly what everyone wants to know! Thanks man. I think this basically came out as expected - AX8 just sounds wayyyyy better IMO.
I went from Axe Fx to Helix and with Redwirez IRs the Helix sounds better for me.
AlexisGitarre I'm in a little bit of trap right now between the too, and all the comments here aren't making it easier lol, but you think it sounds better than your Axe Fx. Recording is no problem either way I think, but for a live standpoint, have you ever tried the Helix live?
I do slightly prefer the AX8. The AX8 is a bit chunkier and less high end fizz. That being said, the difference I prefer is in the EQ curve...Which makes me wonder, if you played with the EQ on the Helix, if you could match the sightly better sound of the AX8? I think the trick is, to make the Helix sound chunkier with less high end treble/fizz, without at the same time making it sound muffled and flat.
You forgot to mention that Helix has a 8in 8out USB audio interface, AX8 Hasn't.
This is an important feature.
for sure!
That's a bit overstated. They are both in the same league. Helix has much better routing options, and I've seen reviews that have the Helix coming out on top in the sound department. Very subjective thing here - but as far as DSP capability - they are both great. I demo'd both these units and ended up with the Helix because it plays better in my live rig - I use it with a Mesa JP-2C. Also, the expression pedal really tip the scale towards the Helix for me - it's the first on board expression pedal that feels and works like the real deal to me. I wouldn't have been disappointed with the AX8 either.
Also, there are a few other things with the Helix that Ola doesn't mention - such as the USB interface with turns the Helix into a home studio swiss army knife. The one thing I will definitely hand to the AX8 is the on board cabinet models are way better than the Helix. It's not a big deal for me live seeing I use a tube amp, but until I loaded custom IR's into the Helix, I was less then thrilled with it for studio work. Once I did it opened it right up.
Yes i'm very happy with my Helix too, Helix is the flagship of line 6 Ax8 is a machine for poor people that can't afford Axe fx II, Fractal top user has the Axe Fx.
Ax8 is like Firehawk for Line6 a second line product not the top shelf.
Ax8 is the light version of axe fx like Protools and Protools LE or Cubase and Cubase LE.
Pearly Gates "Flagship of Line 6" is nothing to brag about hahah
I have to say, this comparison felt a lot more thorough than some of your others in the past and I can really appreciate that. I felt you did a great job on this (not that you haven't in the past).
Keep in mind, Ola used the Blue/Orange channel on the 5153 and Recto, respectively, while the Helix amps were the lead channels of both amps. Hell, the ENGL's were completely different amps. That being said, Helix doesn't sound good here, but I own one and it's a lot better clear and organic-sounding than it is here. Please don't believe from these limited presets that it's some fizzed-out box that can't do metal. Far from it....
yeah this is a pretty important aspect of the test that's flawed. obviously the lead channels are going to be a tad muddier...
Have resisted things like this for 16 years but plan to buy one next week. I can't wait. I really appreciate that you mention that the helix is easier to use. My plan is to get it for at home and maybe get the axe III down the road. I am 100% NOT tech savvy. Thank you again
Ax8 vs Kemper profiler ?
Kemper all the way
Not really a fair comparison..
Why is that ?
Because a they're two different products with two different goals in mind - the kemper is meant to focus on /profiling/ amps, not modelling. The Kemper is the kind of thing you'd using when you're out touring, and you get your tone from using 3 different huge tube amps for different tones, but you just can't swing that live on a small tour, but you want to be able to take your EXACT sound with you (for example, Rob Chapman uses his signature Victory heads, the Silverback and Red Dwarf - neither are available in any amp modeler on the market, but he can profile them with the kemper.) It's also got /some/ built in effects, but not a whole lot, and while they get the job done, if effects are a big thing for you, you would want a separate effects unit or pedal board
That being said, something like the Axe-FX or AX8 or Line 6 Helix is meant to be a "Rig in a box" type thing - you find an amp model you like, you put in your effects, you chuck this in your a bag or rack, and call it a day. You're pretty limited on what amps you can and can't have with these, whereas with the Kemper, as long as you can find the amp, you can profile it into your little Lunchbox of Doom
Actually Kemper has effects as well, the only thing it's lacking is the GUI where you set up your effects chain and shit. You have a little less control. These things are absolute monsters, Bias, Kemper, Axe-FX and now Line6 stepped up their game... The only problem so far is that they're crazy expensive. But it will change. I bought my used axefx ultra for around €1300 last year, now they sell for around 1100 because of the Ax8. The price will drop sooner or later
Hi,
Great video.
I am a Helix owner. I think your examples showed quite clearly that the AX8 was the better sounding unit.
Since they are both about the same price I think the AX8 blows the helix out of the water.
I think they are just similar. And ax8 is better with stock everything. While helix is more close to real response eg with the impulse of ola's own cab. It sounds much better.
+John Yang it's a night and day difference it's by no means similar
You are obviously biasing ax8. No more comment.
John Yang lol, the irony is strong with you.
+John Yang no I go with what sounds better. You're the one defending the sim that sounds like an 1970s practice amp. The helix is bad from an objective standpoint unless you're going for that shitty grindcore tone.
I'd love to see a similar shoot-out between the Axe FX and the Kemper.
Hey Ola, you should do some gear reviews on budget gear too!
He just did something that could help everybody.
I would try an Orange Micro terror + a Tube Screamer + HIS impulse response.
It's a 150$ budget and I bet it will sound better than any Helix preset.
link?
shatalg
In the description
The description of what, there is nothing in the description of the video about an Orange.
shatalg
The Orange Micro Terror is the cheapest valve (on the pre) ampli that came in my mind.
You can find various reviews and tests on it, on this channel as well.
and im here using my axe fx ultra with third party IR's and couldnt he more happier,ola's right that the IR's play a very big role when it comes to guitar tones,both of these units could sound similar to each other and the differences will be unnoticeable in a full mix
AX8 sounds great!
Great video! Unbiased and systematic.
Listening to your recordings, I think I prefer the AX8 for the stock sounds but maybe the Helix when you add your impulse. I have the Helix and am very happy with it though.
hahaha the "preset montage" was the best :)
I think the AX8, but if the helix is more user friendly ...I will have to think on it, I think AX8 and add a wah pedal, but not sure just yet... GREAT VIDEO COMPARISON !!
Ax8 any day of the week
It's either fractal, Kemper or the real amp. Nothing else really comes close
+Infinity Agreed....I've got a pod hd500 and really like it, however wouldn't have nothing against the Kemper or AxeFx II :)
***** I agree ;)
+Infinity bias isn't really a "practice amp" some bands have recorded and played live with it.
+Infinity it is in the same price range but you get much more bang for your buck with bias.
Seems like we guitarists spend more time debating what gear is better than we do actually creating unique music. No big deal to me cuz all the debating just teaches me more about what gear does what and how to set stuff up and dial it in. Thumbs up.
I'm biased because I own an axe fx, but the helix doesn't sound much better than an hd500 or an XT pro for that matter. The line 6 just sounds like it's high passed at 200Hz with a shit ton of fizz.
Fanboy detected
Fernando Lopez Curbelo I mean I even said I'm biased lmao. The fractal sounds better and the Line 6 sounds fizzy to me. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
This format is pure gold Ola, great work as always!
Just buy an audio interface, buy BiasFX software for 100 bucks and a studio monitor for 200 bucks and you'll get better tones for maximum 400 bucks
Ax8 is clear winner in my book, warmer and doesn't have the harsh fizz that helix has but third party ir's can fix that and you demonstrated that well. At the end of the day the ax8 has absolutely top-tier effects and the amp models barely edge out the helix. Great review. The "digitial" part was great.
The Helix isn't adjusted correctly for the comparison, it needs some global EQ adjustments. Not really a fair comparison vid between the 2. The Helix can sound just as good if its properly adjusted. The Helix interface and features blows the AX8 away.
+guitarphil11 I could've done that, but then people would complain that I used global EQ on the helix while the ax8 didn't need it.
Can't stop laughing... Quote of the year! xD
WINNER
What kind of global EQ adjustments? Been feeling hopeless trying to get a solid tone out of Helix Native, and frankly I'm getting closer to picking up a Used Axe FX Ultra at this point.
You need low/high cuts. It can be done also in the cab block. Cut everything below ~100Hz and over ~7-8kHz
Stellar review. I absolutely agree with you that the sound of the AX8 is a bit better than the sound of the Helix. The Helix seems to be a bit "nasaly" and lacks a bit of punch compared to the AX8, at least in my opinion.
The Helix sounds like a fucking cheese-grater
The Helix sounds like it has a lot of hiss and a lot of treble with little to no low end and the AX8 just sounds like it has balls and a ton of low end.
The only effect where Helix came close to the AX8 was the 5150.
Your impulses made the ENGL on both the Helix and AX8 sound pretty identical.
Great video Ola!
best sound was the ax8 5150 with your own impulse
That is the worst sound...
+John Yang do you even have ears
+DeOrestes right.. that must be a line 6 employee lol the helix sounded like garbage especially with the impulse. The 5150 sounded pretty much unusable.
Wtf. I think stock impulse sounds better for ax8. And helix sounds better with Ola's own impulse.
OK. you are right. Line6 is full of shit. And ax8 is 10000 better in every way. You fucking fan boys.
On the sound the AX8 was the clear winner; nicely put together Ola, cheers.
AX8 only.....
2:58 reminded me of my old metal zone. Your impulse really did improve things though.
OlaUberPeenis 0:21 lol
Interesting, the AX8 sounded better through the stock cab impulses but I preferred the Helix through your cab sims. I'll have to give this a couple more listens.
spread the word of Jesus!!!!
J e s u s (There, it's spread...)
I don't care about either of these two units, but the impulse for the Hesu sounds amazing! Thank you for including that, Ola!
Helix wins with Ola's impulse. AX8 sounds way too muffled.
I know this is an old vid, but thanks Ola. I've got both the AX8 and an HX Stomp. For the life of me, the HX Stomp has something annoying about it to me. It's like a combination of putting a blanket over it and then making it hissy.
I've got a riff I recorded with a high gain patch using the Engl Savage model (called the Angle Severe) on the AX8 and am trying to get something close with the HX Stomp. However, I can't get the same clarity as the AX8. Granted, the HX Stomp ANGL Meteor model is based on the Powerball, not the Savage. However, I can't get any amp on the HX Stomp to sound as good as the AX8 Angle Severe on the AX8. This video helped confirm the issue I have with the HX Stomp.
Alas, I am recording direct using the HX Stomp and am not set up for that with the AX8 right now, so I am stuck. I've been on the list for the FM9, which will allow direct recording, but they're out of stock for the foreseeable future due to the semiconductor shortage.
Either way, thanks Ola. Always like your vids.
The difference is night and day. Hes just not allowed to say it so bluntly in this video. The Line6 is great if you're just a kid and dont know the difference or if you just want all your amps to sound like they're coming thought your cellphone.
Allowed by whom?
What i meant was it looks like a professional quality review and normally you have to be unbiased and try to please both companies so that you get sent more products to review in the future. Thats normally the way things go.
I enjoy how quickly you start to backtrack on your outrageous comments when Ola himself responded to your claims. Haha, big tough internet man.
First of all you need to use only IR when compare the units AX8 cant change mics and move the mics on their IR they use static high res IR,s the most important factor in a guitar soiund i.m.o..Helixes uses what they call hybrid cabs.So compare the units using Helix hybrid and AX8,s IR is not fair.Also you can filter out alot of fizzinezz in Helix in cabs.Ola doesnt seem to know that..Secondly there is a video where there is a fair comparison using Helix and AX8 with same amps and same settings (not like in this video where the settings and also amps is different did you notice that?) and in that video they sounded very very similar an all clips..I posted the link here but somone deleted it??Who maybe the owner of this channel so whos aloud to post a fair video..Do you want to see it PM me as i guess Ola or whover that is aloud to show fair comparison between the units delete it again if i post the link..
Contrived testing?Well you cant compare it like Ola did first dial in tone on both units and not even use the same amps (5150) or chanell (Rectifier) or settings on those amps and then run it trhue the same IR and then say it will show how good they are at modelling.
Of course it will sound way different and also on helix you cat use built in cabs for Metal IR is always better thats why Fractal using IR.
You can make Axe sound crap too you know?
But its way easyer to sound crap on Helix especially if you play Metal if you use stock cabs they need to have LP HP filter on them and filter out all frequences under 100 hz and all frquences over 6000 hz and even then its not so good as when you use IR thats why i always use IR instead of stock cabs
Ola didnt seem to know that you can filter out frequenses in the cabs.
The technology when coding amps i guess is almost the same (hence why they sound so similar when you dial in the same setting and run it thrue the same IR) But Fractal is using the cpu,s different than what Line 6 does.
Also reverbs pitch synth and some other effects in AX8 is way better than in Helix say those who owns both.
But i guess all other effects is on par i only use overdrive dist phaser chrous delay and wahwah myself
But remember Helix is on firmware 2.0.1 Fractal is on firmware 23 so they have got rid of many odd things in sounds over they years.
I never tested Helix with 4 cm only use it in studio
But i know of many people who does it and say it sounds awesome.
But most people is using Helix with FRFR speaker..
Compared to XT (I own one myself) is night and day Helix is really top notch and i really hope the future updates will make it sound even better than today especially the more high gain sounds
We have a great dialog on TGP and FB with the people who is working with the unit so they are aware of what we ask for when it comes to improvment.
I have a POD HD Pro (that has some of the same amps/cabs) that I use for my band Atmospheres, but hearing the comparison like this, I really dig the AX8. It has a more realistic cab feel to it. The low end respons is more realistic. One the other hand, the low end is something a FOH or studio engineer would shave off a little, to make room for other instruments. Therefore I think the Helix is my personal "winner" because with some tweaking, I'm sure you would get pretty close to the realism of the AX8. Either way, it's a personal thing. I have love for both
5 thumbs down from Kemper users
Kemper doesn't have a floor model...
i know
Kempers are too ugly to use
@@RX120D now they do
@@megatyaesree What brought you back to this thread from four years ago, my dude? For some reason, your update has me dying of laughter.
I looked away during the soundclips and looked back when I hear something that I like, it was always the AX8.
Line 6 has always sucked.
If you can't get a good sound out of a line 6 you probably shouldn't be playing guitar.
They're dirt cheap, great for practice and demos. Also for beginner amps they're pretty great. New modellers surpassed them but they were great for the price
***** good sound and great sound are quite different.
Having owned both of these products, I think this review pretty much nailed it. Both units are good, with the main difference being the AX8 sounds better, while the Helix is easier to use, without computer software.
i think we need a part 2 of this vs... the live aplication. Compare the live usage of the units, the usage of pedals, the lag (or lack of lag) in switching presets or scenes, and stuff like that. great video nevertheless.
While I think the overall sound goes to AX8 in this situation, I think they are both very close. For usability and features (the inclusion of the expression pedal, more available connection options) I think I would choose the Helix as it seems to better suit my needs. Would love to have either though if I could actually afford to get one right now! Great video!
When i first looked into digital modeling i couldn't make up my mind between the Kemper or the Ax FX. The best advice i got is that both will get you to where you want to go, it's how you get there that's different. Granted they both have strengths & weaknesses, but at the end of the day, given enough time, you should be able to find your tone. I see these both in this category, perhaps the Helix needs a bit of time to 'mature' as it's the new kid on the block but I'm sure Line 6 have that under control.
BTW i got a Kemper, & it's insane how good it is for me, my mate got an AX Fx & the tones he gets out of that is amazing....
Great video Ola! Your impulse response sounded way better on the helix than on the ax8 it made a total difference
The recto on the Helix sounds more forward/mid-focused, but the rest of the Helix patches are fizzy and lack the bell-like chime on the higher notes that the AX8 maintains. Notes ring out better on the AX8 and you can hear individual notes, adding more of an organic/tube-like feel. That said, the AX8 is a tad more scooped, perhaps at the expense of not sounding as fizzy.
Hard to choose, AX8 sounds just a little better to my ears, but line 6 helix is cool looking and user friendly IMO.
Great review and demo Ola, I appreciate it.
I'm happy with my Kemper Powerhead...but i'd like to check out the AX8. it looks and sounds very nice!
I bought an AX8, totally agree with you! But the Helix looks great anyway!
In the initial tone comparison I would 100% have to give it to the Ax8 (no surprise) considering fractal usually manufactures better equipment than line 6 imo. The Helix sounds very saturated, fizzy and unnatural compared to the full body sound of the Ax8. However, I believe that the tone characteristics of each would merge well with one another. The built in foot pedal and easy to use features is clutch with the Helix but overall I would definitely pick the Ax8! Nice upload Ola!
The Ax8 Engl sim with Ola's Impulse is crushing, the higher notes are poping and clear
I think overall, it was the best sample.
Great video ola, gives me a bunch to think about. would love to see a Helix vs POD HD500X. cheers \m/
This video made me send my helix back.
Cleans were great but just didn't do high gain well, even with IRs and weirdly enough it was easier to setup a hd500 (i found the helix joystick annoying and easier to use amp controls on hd500 rather than small knobs for each amp setting on Helix)
I really wanted to like Helix aswell
Thanks for the video Ola! the "AX8 5150 SIM - MY OWN IMPULSE" sounds amazing!
Best A/B test between FX units ever made!!!
I thought the units flip-flopped when they went from cab simulation to cabinet mic.. I was laughing at how it was an actual mirror image when changing... soooo, I am still TORN! hahaha... Great work Ola, as always! You are an inspiration after hearing your story.. have been watching you from the beginning, keep up the great work!!
Amazing difference the IR switch made to the Helix. The AX8 didn't seem to improve as much, which means their stock IRs are definitely better than the Helix. The AX8 sounded better with the Stock IRs with these presets, but when the IRs were changed it seemed to level the playing field considerably.
Line6 has released new firmware since this video as well as a new set of IRs. Wonder if they helped much from the original stock IRs.
Amazing how much of a difference that the IRs make.
Great comparison. Can't wait to upgrade my HD500 to the Helix. Shame the AX8 didn't come with an Expression pedal. Seems a bit odd they didn't include it with a floor unit.
Dude...A+ as always. Excellent demo with excellent (out of nowhere) humor. Rock on, Ola!!
loving all the new content lately ola!
One thing you mentioned was the Helix is easier to use, which with Line 6 stuff I wouldn't doubt. As far as total features however, does the Helix have as much? The Ax8 for instance you can swap tubes in the pre amp and power amp section, change negative gain and a tone of other settings to really get the best tone possible. I would say while Helix has the advantage on usability, that is probably why, because it isn't quite has deep either.
Another thing to consider, if the expression pedal on the helix blows, you are screwed and need to get a new one. I actually appreciate the fact that the AX8 doesn't have one, so I can pick my own to go with it :).
They both sound great. Using the same IR makes them sound almost the same.
For my needs the Helix is the best fit, but if it were only about sound I would chose the AX8.
Wow really preferred the AX8 head to head using stock impulses. Helix had a scratchier, buzzier tone.
i thought the ax-8 sounded thicker and fuller. the line 6 had a fuzzy scooped tone they both sounded good to me
The Fractal sounds a bit better and maybe for recording I would choose that but I have a Helix that I use in a cover band and am willing to sacrifice a bit of sound in a live setting for the flexibility, ease of use, and layout of the Helix. I have yet to find something it can't do (knock on wood), and it does it all intuitively. There is a drop-out when switching presets which might annoy some people, but again, in a live situation it's barely noticeable and it's a small price to pay for the convenience of everything else.
one of the best comparisons as of now.....