Is The Quad Cortex Really Worth The Hype? An Honest Review

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  • Опубліковано 28 січ 2021
  • The Quad Cortex from Neural DSP is a big step forward in the guitar modeling amp world, but is it really worth the hype? And how does it stack up against its rivals like the Helix, Kemper and AxeFX? Heres my honest unfiltered opinion.
    Quad Cortex on Sweetwater (sweetwater affiliate link)
    imp.i114863.net/c/2330848/794...
    Check out the Neural Capture shootout wav files here
    drive.google.com/drive/folder...
    ------------
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    Overview and User Interface:
    3:19
    Neural Capture:
    12:00
    Quad Cortex vs. Kemper vs. Amp
    16:08
    Effects:
    19:15
    Final Thoughts:
    23:22

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,5 тис.

  • @RhettShull
    @RhettShull  3 роки тому +234

    This video goes in depth on the Quad Cortex, so heres the different sections if you're looking for something specific.
    Overview and User Interface:
    3:19
    Neural Capture:
    12:00
    Quad Cortex vs. Kemper vs. Amp
    16:08
    Effects:
    19:15
    Final Thoughts:
    23:22

    • @iurigrang
      @iurigrang 3 роки тому +31

      Why don’t you put these in the description so that the chapters are divided automatically?

    • @kadourimdou43
      @kadourimdou43 3 роки тому +2

      Would you do a video on if you would go for a pedalboard, or all in one effects unit.

    • @basselmtaweh3103
      @basselmtaweh3103 3 роки тому

      The best on the market

    • @RichiAtlanticWind
      @RichiAtlanticWind 3 роки тому

      Rhett, you uploaded the same file twice. The Orange and the Kemper file are the same. Please upload the correct files so we can check it out. Loved your review. And the inclusion of downloadable sounds is perfect. Nice work.

    • @RhettShull
      @RhettShull  3 роки тому +9

      @@RichiAtlanticWind fixing now, thanks!

  • @NeuralDSP
    @NeuralDSP 3 роки тому +969

    Thanks so much for the great video and honest review, Rhett! We’re just at the beginning of the journey here. You can count on us to bring frequent free updates with new models and features, all seamlessly delivered via Wi-Fi. The desktop controller will happen after we’ve launched, as will making the plugins available on QC.

    • @TomCouture
      @TomCouture 3 роки тому +9

      Tier 1 here, when is launch? ;)

    • @RechargingBatteries
      @RechargingBatteries 3 роки тому +17

      How many years do you expect to support the N DSP?

    • @eanroad
      @eanroad 3 роки тому +56

      Neural DSP, I think y'all should give the unit to Rhett and pay the man cause this is one of the most streamlined/comprehensive vids I've seen so far. No fluff, beautifully displayed vid.

    • @wildmilne
      @wildmilne 3 роки тому +4

      How will the plugins work? part of the deal, or you have to own them on PC to use them on Quad Cortex? Thanks

    • @josuastangl7140
      @josuastangl7140 3 роки тому +1

      @@wildmilne yes, if you own them, then you'll be able to also load them onto the QC

  • @RickBeato
    @RickBeato 3 роки тому +368

    Great job Rhett!

    • @willch19
      @willch19 3 роки тому +1

      Bick Reato!

    • @icecreamforcrowhurst
      @icecreamforcrowhurst 3 роки тому +6

      I notice influencers are very big on networking with other influencers. It’s a strange new world we live in.

    • @pieterfransmarialoose7873
      @pieterfransmarialoose7873 3 роки тому +1

      what would be your opinion if you would compare these two units?

    • @theirishpotato6588
      @theirishpotato6588 Рік тому +1

      @@icecreamforcrowhurst how is it strange?

  • @mJules3
    @mJules3 3 роки тому +5

    This is the most honest review on a newly released guitar related product I have seen in a while. Great job and please stay that way!

  • @toddbeeman5933
    @toddbeeman5933 3 роки тому +10

    Sir Rhett- I really enjoy your gear and guitar reviews/demos! You've got a great approach, practical advice, and I think you're incredibly talented at dialing in the best tones the guitar, pedal, amp, etc is capable of producing. I've also been enjoying the extra content on the Dripping With Tone podcast, your studio channel, live shows, and everything else you work on. Keep up the hard work and making a positive difference within the music community!
    Peace & love from Missouri -Todd

  • @craigvittorio1865
    @craigvittorio1865 3 роки тому +69

    The low mid thing on the Kemper is happening on my end too. Very impressed with the Quadcortex so far.

  • @fivewattworld
    @fivewattworld 3 роки тому +371

    Nice review. NOBODY does gear reviews as well as you do Rhett!

    • @RhettShull
      @RhettShull  3 роки тому +18

      Thanks Keith!

    • @wreams2964
      @wreams2964 3 роки тому +11

      Mmm. One guy competes. But he doesn’t do much gear reviews. Mostly short history. I think he name is like. Kevin from 6 amp city

    • @Paul_Lenard_Ewing
      @Paul_Lenard_Ewing 3 роки тому +1

      Yes but my buddy Keith has a better idea. If you do not need it do not buy it. :-) Hence no review is good review.

    • @jadonsvd
      @jadonsvd 3 роки тому +10

      Wait till you find out who Pete Thorn is

    • @fivewattworld
      @fivewattworld 3 роки тому +4

      @@jadonsvd I’ve known Pete Thorn for years, obviously.

  • @MrMatt55551
    @MrMatt55551 3 роки тому +18

    I'm seriously tempted to pick one of these up. This would be a killer fly rig to just throw in a suitcase and not worry about it taking up much space. Having the same functionality as some of the other popular digital modelers in such a small form factor is a big bonus
    My current rig is a Kemper (unpowered rack, with external 3rd party power amp) and I don't think the QC would ever replace it. However, if there were was ever a rack version of the QC in the future, that may change.

  • @kawakami
    @kawakami 3 роки тому +2

    Amazing review brother. This video cleared all of my main questions and confirmed some of my theories. THANK YOU!

  • @garailac
    @garailac 3 роки тому +27

    The effects will get better for sure. The reverb in their Plini plugin is some of the best i've ever heard

  • @RichTones
    @RichTones 3 роки тому +293

    Well.... still cheaper than a KLON I guess.

  • @johnmccabe7645
    @johnmccabe7645 3 роки тому

    Continually amazed by the quality info you push. I could hear the initial comparison like you stated. Great editing as usual.

  • @matthewhogya2014
    @matthewhogya2014 3 роки тому +2

    I love the honesty of all your reviews. Your reviews are a pretty big influence on my buying and selling decisions. Regardless, you’re reviews and always fantastic.

  • @keithstutts4501
    @keithstutts4501 3 роки тому +6

    Glad to see this unbiased review from Rhett , just the kind of information potential buyers are looking for ! Thanks for keeping it real and we look forward to seeing more videos on the Quad Cortex. This new generation of digital processing should push the competitors to the next level and up the game even more. Thanks for sharing this review ! It's an exciting time to be a guitarist !!

  • @zacharylindsey7679
    @zacharylindsey7679 3 роки тому +3

    Super interested... been messing with the archetypes on my computer and am pretty blown away by what I’ve experienced so far

  • @crazylegsfishing9934
    @crazylegsfishing9934 3 роки тому

    Fantastic Review Rhett. Thanks for taking the time and effort to put together such a great sounding, and looking video. Your work is super impressive, and I trust your call on this unit. I think I'm sold.

  • @lexjones2038
    @lexjones2038 2 роки тому +2

    I watched this entire review, I love the way that you compare and review the gear, and I like that you compared it against the Kemper for the capture which was the one thing I was really interested in.
    I just ordered my QC, and looking forward to the future development of the QC.

  • @TobysGuitarGearDemos
    @TobysGuitarGearDemos 3 роки тому +18

    It does sounds really good. The thing this has over the Kemper is the user interface. The touch screen is super intuitive. Scrolling through menus on the Kemper feels like you're in 2005. There are so many great 3rd party profiles for the Kemper (including Rhetts). If Neural can get units into all the top profiling companies hands and get a solid 3rd party market going they're going to be on to a winner.

    • @judestv
      @judestv Рік тому +1

      Still researching, but I’m a bit old school….and for me, touch screen would b great in studio, but onstage if ya gotta adjust something…(usually do) would drive me nuckinfutz…lol

    • @tawmifm
      @tawmifm 9 місяців тому +1

      The foresight 😳

  • @mjb20224
    @mjb20224 3 роки тому +84

    I’ve been editing Network TV shows and documentaries in Hollywood for almost 20 years and you are amazing on camera. Smart, articulate and engaging from the first second of every video. The fact that you do many of these videos with minimal edits is really amazing. Most people don’t understand how difficult it is to address a camera with such fluidity and confidence. Top notch, dude! This is my favorite channel on the tube and I look forward to watching your continued success. Peavey for life, man!

    • @KelsterVonShredster
      @KelsterVonShredster 3 роки тому +2

      absolutely agree!

    • @RhettShull
      @RhettShull  3 роки тому +4

      Thanks so much for the kind words!

    • @michaelgregory2231
      @michaelgregory2231 3 роки тому +1

      +1 for Rhett! I do guitar videos and am nowhere near as composed and articulate. Bravo!

  • @markd5235
    @markd5235 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks for the thorough review Rhett, very well done! I have ordered mine, and cannot wait to plug it in. I was on the fence to order the QC or the FM8 as my first floorboard modeller, the UI of the QC is what sold me. Well that, and I love Neural’s Plug-ins already so feel pretty confident I will get the sounds I like.

  • @skweetis
    @skweetis 3 роки тому

    Rhett, thank you for your well-considered thoughts and honesty in your videos, as well as the quality of the production and editing. Your commitment to informing and entertaining fellow musicians is remarkable. You're one of my favorite guitar UA-camrs, and it's work like this that keeps me coming back. Excellent review of a fascinating product.

  • @joshuafernandes4935
    @joshuafernandes4935 Рік тому +12

    When the Quad cortex was launched more than 2 years ago ( October 2020) Neural DSP said that the plugin would be available on the cortex soon. its 2 years now and the website as on 7 jan 2023 said it is not an easy task to port all the plugins that were created on windows/mac to the cortex and they have to re code stuff to make it work on the quad cortex. There is no timeline whether this will be done in the next 2 years or 5 years. Considering they advertised this will be available soon and 2 years later still have no timeline for this speaks volumes about how marketing is done. The good part is that due to this aggressive hype they have sold 5000 quad cortex (as per the website). I wish Neural DSP would be more honest about their products especially since they knew that the plugins were not going to be available on the quad cortex for more than 2 or 3 years.

  • @IntheDAW
    @IntheDAW 3 роки тому +12

    As a primarily metal guitar player I still always come here for product demo videos. The way you show while telling and give a wide pool of examples really makes me respect your reviewing style. Personally I will keep my axe fx 3 but I will be getting one after its had time to really mature. Sounded great

  • @BipityBopity93
    @BipityBopity93 3 роки тому

    Really excited to see more videos on this from you. In regards to tone you have a very well balanced approach and achieve really good tones. 🙏🏽

  • @Smittefar1
    @Smittefar1 3 роки тому

    Thumbs up for a great in-depth review - I look forward to checking the .wav files from the captures. Very helpful - thanks

  • @matsnilson7727
    @matsnilson7727 3 роки тому +3

    Nice video! And now back to playing my Boss GT-10.

    • @lespaulep
      @lespaulep 3 роки тому

      Lol.. that's a good one

    • @rogerbrown5016
      @rogerbrown5016 3 роки тому

      Where you got me beat I'm playing a boss GT8

  • @DrProgNerd
    @DrProgNerd 3 роки тому +3

    Great review. Something worth considering is that the FM3 basically gives you a trimmed down version of the Axe III. So, the quality of the models - and most of the effects- is the same - just less horsepower. At around $1,100 shipped, it could be a better value. I had the same question about the longevity of those switches. I could see doing a buy-n-try on one of these down the line - but for now, I will happily use my FM3 and wait for more feedback to come in on the Quad Cortex. Thanks for an honest review.

    • @peterking3131
      @peterking3131 Рік тому

      Agree, wouldn't justify anything over 1000$ for digital that devalues quickly.

  • @amileoj9043
    @amileoj9043 3 роки тому

    Great, comprehensive review Rhett. Thanks for really trying to isolate the QC vs the Kemper (vs the "real" amp) when it came to the sounds. Super helpful.

  • @thomasvernier8506
    @thomasvernier8506 3 роки тому

    Thanks Rhett! I really enjoyed this. Well done, as always great playing.

  • @srsanders455
    @srsanders455 3 роки тому +3

    Well done Rhett, to answer your question I'm not buying this yet. I have a Helix, and it works great for my normal gig on the worship team at my church. I use a JTM45 amp model on the edge of break up with the virtual OCD pedal fronting it with a Ownhammer IR (4x12 marshal cab) and a light compressor at the end of the chain. It sounds really good, so close to the real thing miced up its crazy. This new Quad Cortex is smaller and better in some ways, but not enough to switch.

  • @Fonjozy
    @Fonjozy 3 роки тому +16

    How well does the Quad core reproduce the feel/feedback you get between the strings and real amps; in other words, the reaction you get between partuclar guitars, amps, and speakers turned up to a sweet spot? The Boss GT-1000 produces a pretty decent realistic feel with their AIRD technology.

    • @kcussrebutuemos4815
      @kcussrebutuemos4815 3 роки тому

      The feel is what’s missing with the helix and Kemper. The only modeler that feels good to me and sounds good is the Yamaha 100hd double modeler. Yamaha bought out line6 btw. It’s simple. Plug it in snd play. Two amps at once.

  • @georgebarry8640
    @georgebarry8640 3 роки тому

    Phenom Video, Rhett! Not only great tones...but reasoned,seasoned advice. And that has value. You really provide some insights here that are useful for players who can't get to a store and put their hands on this device. thank you!

  • @nelsonpaul72
    @nelsonpaul72 2 роки тому

    Seriously man, you put out such good content. Thanks for the in-depth review.

  • @justine3563
    @justine3563 3 роки тому +3

    This is the first cortex review/demo I've watched. Got bored watching another video after watching rhett's. He's got it all in here. Great job!!

  • @svenjeschke5025
    @svenjeschke5025 3 роки тому +24

    An in-depth comparison between this and the FM3 from Fractal would be great!

    • @irishRocker1
      @irishRocker1 3 роки тому

      Agreed. Those are the two that'll be going head to head more so than like a kemper etc

    • @Crowbar11115
      @Crowbar11115 3 роки тому +1

      I'd love to see people set up some pretty "flat" IRs then compare Helix, FM3, Neural and Kemper through the same IR. I always hear a super grating grainy sound in Neural's stuff that I don't get from my Helix or Fractal stuff.

    • @r.llynch4124
      @r.llynch4124 3 роки тому

      @@Crowbar11115 that's funny cuz i always hear helix fizzy in all the l6 stuff, The fm3 is awesome though but only 3 switches. mine kinda bothers me cuz of the 3 switches.

    • @touringband
      @touringband 3 роки тому

      @@r.llynch4124 add the fc6 to the fm3 and still be cheaper than this ;)

    • @r.llynch4124
      @r.llynch4124 3 роки тому

      @@touringband 50 bucks and an extra piece of gear. I have a fm3 but no capture. I have some rare amps to capture so...

  • @Herbo57
    @Herbo57 3 роки тому

    Hi Rhett
    Thanks for the video, very useful review. I have actually pre-ordered one myself so looking forward to getting my hands on it. i look forward to plugging into some of your captures and pre-sets.Ian from the UK

  • @rhymeskill
    @rhymeskill 3 роки тому +1

    I really appreciate the honest review. I was waiting to decide between this and the FM3. I think I’ll wait a little longer.

  • @kevinpaige5746
    @kevinpaige5746 3 роки тому +14

    The capture of your Orange rig was dead on!

  • @rodriguezelfeliz4623
    @rodriguezelfeliz4623 3 роки тому +236

    I'll stick to my starter pack amp with a damaged dirty channel and a broken input jack.

    • @J00PIE
      @J00PIE 3 роки тому +15

      just crank the shit out of it!!!

    • @rodriguezelfeliz4623
      @rodriguezelfeliz4623 3 роки тому +11

      @@J00PIE Yes, I do that at gigs. At home on the other hand... let's just say my family tells me that I am being too loud when I play electric guitar... without the amp hahahaha

    • @samirwknox
      @samirwknox 3 роки тому +3

      Hey man I used one of those well into my first bands and didn't really get the ability to afford something more until I started working 60 hour weeks, I also spent years playing my electrics unplugged, just do what works for you and play your best.

    • @rodriguezelfeliz4623
      @rodriguezelfeliz4623 3 роки тому +7

      @@samirwknox thanks for the advice, you are very right. I've come to realize that having a good amp or guitar is not going to make me play any less shitty hahaha

    • @sneifert1968
      @sneifert1968 3 роки тому +5

      Me too, Stick to my $150 off brand guitars , $80 used Peavey Bandit 112 and my pedals that I've had since the eighties

  • @brandonnelson7489
    @brandonnelson7489 3 роки тому

    Once again every time I watch your videos I’m inspired to play. You are a joy to watch and a true master at your craft, keep the videos coming man.

  • @bobmccarroll7876
    @bobmccarroll7876 3 роки тому

    Thanks for this great and honest video, Rhett. Helps a lot.

  • @Mr_Bollie
    @Mr_Bollie 3 роки тому +4

    Thank you for doing such an honest review! What I noticed when you were comparing real amp chain vs. QC vs. Kemper was how far away the Kemper is from the QC. But also the QC is not close yet to the sound of the "real" chain. Somehow, it's lacking something. And I have noticed that with all the modelling solutions I have tried so far. It's lacking those sweet overtones, that you get when your pick hits the strings. It sounds kinda flat, not as "three-dimensional".I know, I'm terrible at describing it. And I also know that if you're on stage, the audience won't notice or care. But to me, that flat sound steals some of my articulation. And tbh, that kills part of the inspiration and the fun to play. That're my two cents. Oh, and I have a question, Rhett... if you compare the complete chain vs. QC vs. amp with OX, where would you see the OX?

    • @mikmc
      @mikmc Рік тому

      I am curious to try the QC but to get one I would have to sell my only amp and my Ox (I play at home in a tiny space, so the QC would tick a lot of boxes), would love to see a comparison on the difference between the QC and a real amp using the Ox cab sims. Oh I have some serious decisions to make

  • @seanchristopher740
    @seanchristopher740 3 роки тому +11

    There's a pretty important thing people who make Profiles know, and that is the fact that you're not supposed to have any compressor or gate active in the signal chain while making a Profile, because it affects the authenticity of the signal and messes with the Profiling process. I'm sure if Rhett had done a Profile the right way then it would have sounded the exact same as the amp. Running a compressor while Profiling is a surefire way to ruin a Profile and it leaves the comparison pretty uneven in terms of each unit being able to work at its best. It definitely gave the QC a HUGE advantage by basicaslly CRIPPLING the Profiling process. Anyone who doesn't believe me, look in the Kemper's Manual which you can find online. The instructions are pretty clear about how Compressors and Gates will literally ruin the Profiling process and prevent you from getting an accurate Profile.
    Just something else to think about lol

  • @ContemporaryFingerstyleGuitar
    @ContemporaryFingerstyleGuitar 3 роки тому

    Well done! Thanks for capturing both the Kemper and the QC. Very interesting.

  • @JamieSlays
    @JamieSlays 3 роки тому

    sounds amazing to me! ive been obsessed with this idea for over a year now and it seems to be head and shoulders above the competition

  • @guitarcd
    @guitarcd 3 роки тому +3

    Waiting for mine. Took the gamble and sold my Kemper, currently holding my HXFX centered pedalboard. Was more or less expecting the same thing as you describe: there is a whole lot of potential to build from this fairly spare initial release with software updates. I hope that we don't have to wait as long for a PC and/or Mac editor as I did for either Helix or Kemper Profiler.

  • @mitjalubej6743
    @mitjalubej6743 3 роки тому +9

    QC killed it with neural capture 👌

  • @anderaparicio9748
    @anderaparicio9748 3 роки тому

    Wow, impressive results with the capture. I love the video and how you compare it with the anp and the kemper. Congrats!

  • @GwilymJames
    @GwilymJames 3 роки тому

    Awesome review. Thanks for the wav files - very considerate.

  • @OliChristenDrew
    @OliChristenDrew 3 роки тому +3

    Wow, the first rig profile you made with the Quadcortex is shockingly accurate, much much more than the Kemper’s - at least considering we hear this through UA-cam’s auto combustion compression!

  • @AshleyPaul
    @AshleyPaul 3 роки тому +7

    The only multieffects unit I've actually kept for more than a few months is the Headrush Gigboard because it's small, powerful, and easy to control. This thing is smaller and lighter, more powerful, and even easier to control. It's a matter of when, not if, I buy it. In no hurry because pandemic, but I'd love to take this thing everywhere.

    • @funkster007
      @funkster007 3 роки тому

      Love my Gigboard. For the price it's tough to beat, and there's no limit to very usable sounds.

    • @AshleyPaul
      @AshleyPaul 3 роки тому

      @@funkster007 Yeah, the only thing I don't like is that it feels a little underpowered when using as an interface, with dropped samples and such. And sometimes it goes into a glitched state and needs to be restarted. The HX Stomp is a lot more stable, but with less power and generally much worse effects (IMO), though I actually like HX amp models better.

    • @funkster007
      @funkster007 3 роки тому

      @@AshleyPaul Same, although I havent recorded with it much yet. Hopefully they can fix some of those bugs with another update. I got my GB for pretty cheap so I can't be too picky. I'm happy with the overall sounds and tones. I have about 4 or 5 different amps if I want the real thing. lol

    • @AshleyPaul
      @AshleyPaul 3 роки тому

      @@funkster007 Yeah, it's fine during performances. It's just when I'm editing or recording, it requires a restart now and then. It was pretty amazing for the time and compares favorably (IMO) to almost everything twice its price.

  • @pinnerspinner8389
    @pinnerspinner8389 7 місяців тому

    Good review man. You endorsed the product with your good guitar playing! Nice sounds and feel. A lot of players i know are selling their tube amps and buying this. I use Neural Plugins for a lot of my stuff now. I am really vibing what Neural has and brings to the table. The interface looks really easy to navigate through as well. Really honest good review again. 👍

  • @voornaam3191
    @voornaam3191 3 роки тому +1

    This is a very informative video, I don't know much about recording and effect pedals (yet), so this video is a great introduction to this neural networking thing, and the "traditional" tools. Thank you again.

  • @mauriziogiovanardi5394
    @mauriziogiovanardi5394 3 роки тому +14

    Great estimation for Rhett, but, in the future, to do fair comparison there are some important key points to stick to:
    1) guitar signal must be THE SAME, not similar, exactly the same, using a looper or whatever
    2) volume RMS or LUFS of the WAV to compare must be THE SAME, 3db more bring ears to say "it's better"
    3) at least distortion level must be THE SAME, otherwise the processed signal are too different

  • @wrekkingcru
    @wrekkingcru 3 роки тому +22

    Helix, Headrush, AxeFX, Quadcortex, Oh My....! Man we are freakin spoiled with all of the gear options on the table in 2021. I have the Helix, but I'll be honest with you - I like the great amp sounds and simple interface - only knobs on the pedal - on my Strymon Iridium. I'm frankly tired of the land-of-a-thousand-presets, but I get that for some people this allows them to tweak for specific songs and a set list for performing live. I'd rather have something with *great* execution on the few things I need vs endlessly clicking through presets, which kills productivity and wastes time that I could be spending making music and writing songs.

    • @GuitarAge
      @GuitarAge 3 роки тому +1

      100% agreed. I sold Iridium and got AXE AX8 because AXE is still a modeller king and sounds better , now finishing tweaking my 10 presets for everyday use and no more editing. By the way i have time to tweak it once in two days, all time working on music on old desktop amp YAMAHA THR10 or unplugged.

    • @tbone9347
      @tbone9347 3 роки тому +1

      you must be my brother from another mother

    • @pdp977
      @pdp977 3 роки тому +1

      Agreed. I just play into my computer and then use Neural's Cory Wong plugin, as it has the nicest clean sound I've ever heard. I have too much gear and have been getting rid of it because I don't want to have to think about settings all the bloody time. I've been looking at the Strymon type stuff. I should have worked this out years ago, given that my favourite combo is my Tech 21 60 watt, which is permanently set to a Fenderish clean... Having said that for some musicians who have to cover a lot of territory for live or sessions these things are a godsend.

    • @yodajazzcat
      @yodajazzcat 3 роки тому +1

      Bingo. Clapton took his Strat, plugged into a low wattage Fender amp or a Pignose(!) and recorded the Layla album. Today it's a classic because the songs/ playing/singing were so good.

    • @yodajazzcat
      @yodajazzcat 3 роки тому

      @this is our house Who said anything about worship?? If you're gonna make a comment at least get a musical education.

  • @joshuabenton3785
    @joshuabenton3785 3 роки тому +2

    Well that comparison did me in.
    Preordered. I have been gassing to run stereo and now I can!

  • @tylerregh
    @tylerregh 3 роки тому +1

    Finally committed and purchased (pre-order) one after seeing this video. Honest and true, love it Rhett!

  • @bennyharderguitar
    @bennyharderguitar 3 роки тому +28

    Neural addressed the footswitches. They built a robot to hit the buttons hundreds of thousands of times over a couple weeks.

    • @florisbackx1744
      @florisbackx1744 3 роки тому +10

      A robot always hits it in the same way, in real life scenario there will be a lot more 'side' pressure on the switches when stretching trying to reach when on stage for instance. Not saying they are bad, just saying that the robot test is not everything. We'll just have to see it will fare in real life cases.

    • @NicholasGreenwood
      @NicholasGreenwood 3 роки тому +5

      The rotary encoder switches look promising, but players WILL break them. I just hope that replacements will become available for repair.

    • @ts4gv
      @ts4gv 3 роки тому +8

      @@florisbackx1744 True, but consider this. You’d have to hit one of the 8 switches in particular 100 times a day for 3 years to get to 100,000. Their robot did a lot more than that.
      How many robot presses are equivalent to one sloppy, real-world press? All in all, I’d imagine these switches are pretty damn resilient.

    • @RhettShull
      @RhettShull  3 роки тому +4

      I heard this after making the video, that definitely gives me more confidence. The real world is different than a robot though, but Im sure they'll be prepared to support this long term.

  • @ultratone
    @ultratone 3 роки тому +6

    Sounds promising, especially the captures... but one thing I still love about my helix is that I have my helix floor unit and the helix native plugin, and they are exact copies of each other. So whatever I do on the floor I can replicate exactly in logic with helix native (and vice versa). I record my songs and tweak the sounds until perfect in native and then just transfer the presets over to the floor unit and Voila, ready to go. I know neural has their plugins, but they aren't exact copies with exact workflows. And when it comes down to it, I love the sound of my helix. Of course I will still be watching every video about the quad cortex. ;)

    • @J.D....
      @J.D.... 3 роки тому +3

      Helix is also tailored more towards someone like me who doesnt own any expensive amps they want to profile, they just want a "all in one" solution.

    • @rickthestick8
      @rickthestick8 3 роки тому +3

      @@J.D.... I own the Helix also but it will be taking a back seat to the QC. The cool part is that now you can "own" all those amps! ...and many more. People in the community will all share their captures.

    • @BigRalphN
      @BigRalphN 3 роки тому

      @@rickthestick8 I am hoping I will be happy enough I can put my Helix up for sale within a week or two. I want to unload it while it still gets a good price. I think with poly it’s at the end of what it’s processing can handle.

    • @rickthestick8
      @rickthestick8 3 роки тому

      @@BigRalphN agreed, the QC is far more powerful. I don't know if I can part with my Helix though...

    • @BigRalphN
      @BigRalphN 3 роки тому

      @@rickthestick8 ya. I don’t know either but I could order a KIESEL if I sell it. Lol. Or pay bills. Whichever us more important. I will see once I get it and play a bit.

  •  3 роки тому

    Thanks for a detailed and down to earth review. I'll be waiting for more :)

  • @shadehunter
    @shadehunter 3 роки тому +2

    Dig. The capture is ON POINT! Neural DSP seems like a helluva company in the plugin field, and I'm excited to see what else the come out with in hardware.

  • @pj666kemperprofiles
    @pj666kemperprofiles 3 роки тому +6

    Nice comparison ! I just wonder if you have refined the Kemper profile or not.

    • @janebond4175
      @janebond4175 3 роки тому

      Same. I've heard much better tests for the Kemper, where the profile sounds nearly identical to the reference amp.

    • @pj666kemperprofiles
      @pj666kemperprofiles 3 роки тому

      @@janebond4175 me too but it's more about being as complete as possible. But another issue could be the compressor in the chain, which is not recommended at all for profiling.

  • @Germinalx
    @Germinalx 3 роки тому +3

    How great is Rhett? Even when playing the shortest little snippet of music he has on his full, inspired guitar face! Awesome!!

  • @ElectricEmpireProductions
    @ElectricEmpireProductions 3 роки тому +1

    Very cool unit, glad you will be tracking it's progress. Just bought the Bias FX suite and a new computer and the is enough for now. Glad more options like this are coming to market.

  • @TomasSvantner
    @TomasSvantner 3 роки тому

    Very nice review! Thanks! I am in the tier2 pre-order and happy waiting for it. I believe it will be worth it.

  • @cyanwitch2708
    @cyanwitch2708 3 роки тому +3

    For the captures I thought the kemper was spot on. The qc was louder for every clip.
    I own neither but do own a rp360 which sounds better and takes pedals better and feels better than helix. Overall I think the QCortex sounds amazing here. I like the tones Rhett pulls.

  • @MarshallGTV
    @MarshallGTV 3 роки тому +3

    I’m hearing smoother upper order harmonics from the quad vs the kemper.. can’t afford it but I like it

  • @josuevenegas27
    @josuevenegas27 3 роки тому

    Impressive review man 👏🏻👏🏻
    Thanks!!
    Now I want my QC to come faster than never 🙌🏻🙌🏻

  • @luminousbrilliance1711
    @luminousbrilliance1711 3 роки тому

    Hey Rhett Happy 2021! it's good to see you and thank you for posting-I truly appreciate your live sound technical reviews! Me-I'd go Axe if I had to buy this second-which I don't. That said, Buy and Hold on this bad boy is actually great advice. Thanks again, Man!

  • @TheMrChugger
    @TheMrChugger 3 роки тому +5

    A neural network is a type of machine learning model, it's essentially turning the IR response into data, and generating a model that can recreate that sound given new data (audio). It's what makes NerualDSP stuff really, really cool. Awesome review!

    • @amitbidaye7855
      @amitbidaye7855 6 місяців тому +1

      apologies, what does IR stand for?

    • @TheMrChugger
      @TheMrChugger 6 місяців тому

      ​@@amitbidaye7855impulse response, basically a representation of a sound a device like an amp or cab produces. Which can then be used to reproduce the sound the original device produces

  • @NateTheMeh
    @NateTheMeh 3 роки тому +3

    I’m not gonna lie, the Cory Wong neural dap amps are my fav way to practice now. I run my pedal board into my SSL 2+ interface and it works seamlessly and sounds just as good as my Handwired amp but at a reasonable volume. Totally worth the money!

    • @Roganhayl
      @Roganhayl 3 роки тому

      That's cool to hear, quick question how do you like the SSL interface? I love their consoles and have been wanting one but haven't heard many user thoughts on the interface

  • @MichaelBogaMusic
    @MichaelBogaMusic 3 роки тому

    Rhett, that was a pretty amazing review! Again, your videos are always high end! And I can’t wait to get mine!

  • @ericbrewerguitar1499
    @ericbrewerguitar1499 3 роки тому

    Excellent comprehensive review man. That “Arange” AD30 sounds so killer

  • @jamiebarnesmusic
    @jamiebarnesmusic 3 роки тому +6

    Rhett - are you sure that you uploaded the right Kemper and Orange filled to the google drive? The WAVs seem identical... (thanks for doing this :))

    • @fredmanteghian5913
      @fredmanteghian5913 3 роки тому +1

      i guess if he did, Rhett fixed it. I can clearly hear the most inferior of the three, the Kemper, and the best of the three, the actual AD30

    • @jamiebarnesmusic
      @jamiebarnesmusic 3 роки тому

      @@fredmanteghian5913 yup - looks like the Orange sound clip has been updated to the correct one. Tells a very different story by my ears! I'm a Kemper owner, but by comparison the Kemper sounded muddy and a hint more plastic-y than both the recorded amp and the Quad Cortex. I suspect with more tuning of the Kemper profile (something that is traditionally needed to get the best out of a profile) that it could sound better / closer....but if the QC got to that level of profile quality that quickly, I think that's a strong check mark. Uhg. Now I think I'll need to buy one.

  • @kzpppp
    @kzpppp Рік тому +3

    I hope you do a revisit and share what you think about it now.

  • @aviator_bryan
    @aviator_bryan 3 роки тому +2

    Great review! I was preorder Tier 1 and backed out in favor of the FM3. While love the Fractal, I am still interested in this product, even though the capture/profile feature is what I will probably use the least. I'm going on 5 years with Helix as well, and it's a light year ahead of when it was released, so I know the QC will likely only become more awesome with time. Great times we are living in to have such great options!

  • @Albake21z
    @Albake21z 3 роки тому

    This was a fantastic review, thank you! During the tone match with the Orange AD30, it sounded very close, but it still was missing some low mid dirt. With that said, something in that high end of the cortex just sounds so good. Their plugins also have that high fidelity sound in the high end.

  • @kevinterruption
    @kevinterruption 3 роки тому +12

    That rig profile sequence needs to be a ringtone or computer wake-up sound.

  • @TyRobertsmedia
    @TyRobertsmedia 3 роки тому +5

    I will be getting this. I've waited, and waited for something like this baby. The other options you compared it to just never appealed to me, but when I heard your demo of the Kemper vs the Quad --- wow. Also Andertons as a video of a bunch of pedal profiles - total mind blown. I own many boutique amps but want to carry them all around the world - this baby will do it, in style.

  • @gashed8377
    @gashed8377 3 роки тому +1

    Nice work man. Something to be said about not being sponsored. I appreciate the honesty!

  • @ELACEBAL
    @ELACEBAL 2 роки тому

    Thanks a lot for the video!!! I´ve just pre order one QC today after watching your video. I hope they're gonna make some updates to the software.

  • @Dedmine
    @Dedmine 3 роки тому +43

    Rhett: Just built his pedalboard
    *I can already see him pulling the thing apart to put this in xD

    • @HerroYuy246
      @HerroYuy246 3 роки тому +7

      That HX Effects was a placeholder for this on his new pedal board.

  • @johnrobie9694
    @johnrobie9694 3 роки тому +2

    FYI, "Neural Network" is a common form of machine learning (also sounds good for marketing). It's also being used in self-driving (eg. Tesla), image recognition (eg. Pinterest), and natural language processing (eg. Alexa). The "training" aspect does typically take some time, and requires a good amount of data.

    • @johnrobie9694
      @johnrobie9694 3 роки тому

      @Lars Norberg neural network training requires A LOT of data to start from scratch. So often times, you start with a "pre-trained" model as a foundation, then build on that. It's possible that this device isn't actually doing any complex neural network machine learning, but rather analyzing the audio signal and then doing some light machine learning on top of the foundational machine learning model already baked into the device. In other words, when you get a Tesla, it already knows how to self-drive, and then it improves with more data (your driving). I am guessing this is similar.

  • @O.P._Zed_Tracker
    @O.P._Zed_Tracker 3 роки тому

    Thanks for this video and the wave files 👏👏👏🙏🙏🙏

  • @bradbunyan1902
    @bradbunyan1902 3 роки тому +1

    Great review dude. I’ve got the helix and I’m pretty happy with it but I think the QC is in my future Purchases! Like with everything new you really have to spend time with the unit. I think the cloud idea is great and I think when the top guys like yourself get their hands on it and start profiling some great amps this thing will explode with popularity.!

  • @felipealonso8409
    @felipealonso8409 3 роки тому +13

    Capture feature: Original sounds meaty, QC has the digital top end added to it. Of course, as all modern units, in a live context nobody would ever notice.

    • @XiyuYang
      @XiyuYang 3 роки тому +7

      If only you guitar players care to learn a bit of physics and acoustics, you would have known that “digital top end” or whatever you would like to call it, is a side effect of oversampling. I don’t know if QC let’s you change the oversampling rate or not, but a simple, steep low pass filter would fix that.
      And before you say anything, even an entirely analog rig will be recorded into digital formats, so yeah, no matter what you use, your guitar, your pickup, your pedals, your amps, your cabs, your microphones, will always end up with “that digital top end”
      Geez, it’s 2021 for crying out loud, please, educate, yourself.

    • @KevisaVivose
      @KevisaVivose 3 роки тому

      @@XiyuYang that was actually quite insightful, thank you!

    • @Nobddy
      @Nobddy 3 роки тому

      @@XiyuYang ok mr. hoity toity sonic master, guitarists have other priorities. Are you trying to put audio engineers out of work?

  • @rodriguezelfeliz4623
    @rodriguezelfeliz4623 3 роки тому +3

    Reminds me of the headrush gigboard in the user interface. I always wanted one of those (cheaper), but I could not find any used

    • @auntjenifer7774
      @auntjenifer7774 3 роки тому

      Just get the big dog and you won't regret getting the cheaper option when in fact you wanted the big dog !
      Trust me, I was going to get gig board because it was cheaper but realized that I wasn't going to be able to use the machine as easy as the big one with all the switches so I just spent the money to get what I wanted and needed the first time !

    • @rodriguezelfeliz4623
      @rodriguezelfeliz4623 3 роки тому

      @@auntjenifer7774 the only problem is that I can't afford the cheap one and in my country gear is waaaay too expensive. If I want the big dog I probably need to find a way to ilegally migrate to another country and steal one hahaha

  • @keithbuck8252
    @keithbuck8252 Рік тому

    Loved this and I've owned the Kemper floor currently on my third Helix had the original when it came out ... I hear exactly what you did, as you were running them back. You were spot on. Loved the video you could not have done this better
    Thanks

  • @WendellSexson
    @WendellSexson 3 роки тому

    Good video, thank you. I think you explained the strengths and weaknesses fairly and usefully.

  • @nickbosworth966
    @nickbosworth966 3 роки тому +4

    When it's in stomp mode you can't assign an effect block parameter to a footswitch like you can with Helix. e.g. In stomp mode you can't have a Rotary block assigned to a foot switch and you can't have fast to slow assigned to another footswitch. You have to use scenes aka snapshots for that. So as I use my HX Stomp and MC6 in stomp mode, the QC is effectively an expensive doorstop for me.

  • @DeadmeatDarkdaylight
    @DeadmeatDarkdaylight 3 роки тому

    Thank you! this was good review! I can´t wait tto have my own one. long time I´ve been using same setup so let´s go for a hi end now!

  • @liberty4all885
    @liberty4all885 3 роки тому

    I am going to buy one. I’ve been waiting for this very thing. Great review btw comparing this with kemper

  • @tonepilot
    @tonepilot 3 роки тому +6

    Holy hell, the capture is accurate. Kemper sales start now :)

    • @phillipsouthard8285
      @phillipsouthard8285 3 роки тому

      No one in there right mind would sell their Kemper, helix, or fractal for this unit yet. It’s too early and it sounds fine, but not even close to good yet.

    • @tonepilot
      @tonepilot 3 роки тому

      @@phillipsouthard8285 Yup, I’m hanging on to my Fractal. I’ll make a decision after I’ve had the QC for a while.

  • @sbrave
    @sbrave 3 роки тому +3

    All the videos I've seen for this show the capturing is pretty amazing. Here too, sounds much better than the Kemper, which sound very compressed and flat.

  • @PatDeJongeSoundwise
    @PatDeJongeSoundwise 3 роки тому

    That must have taken you a fair bit of time! Thanks Rhett, I really appreciate your honesty and down to earth view. I was bored of the videos full of marketing lingo ('no other device on the market does' etc...) where it's obvious the reviewer is selling rather then reviewing. Keep up the good work man!

  • @jaktje
    @jaktje 3 роки тому

    Great review Rhett!! This will be on my wishing list!

  • @DarrenSMusic
    @DarrenSMusic 3 роки тому +6

    Great review.
    I really wasn't expecting you to say you'd buy it, though.
    It seems that it has so many drawbacks that I wouldn't personally put my money on the hope that they'd make it better with updates - if it isn't up to par on some aspects such as the effects and assigning multiple pedals to a single switch, I'd wait until those things are ironed out before parting with money.

    • @ctld5266
      @ctld5266 3 роки тому +2

      clearly. 1,5K€, with that annoying cliking sound when switching preset, without being able to assign as you want the footswich, and considering the bad quality fx, is no for me

  • @edosiggi
    @edosiggi 3 роки тому +19

    I wanted to try and compare the capture from the QC and the profiling from Kemper, flipping the phase and aligning audio from the amp using the files in your GDrive folder, but when i put the files in the DAW, the Orange Amp wav phase ereases itfelf PERFECLY with the Kemper wav file. So.. or the Kemper is VERY GOOD at profiling, or there is something strange in there :)

    • @RichiAtlanticWind
      @RichiAtlanticWind 3 роки тому +4

      Yes. It looks like he loaded twice the same wav file. I was also going to comment the same. Would love to listen to the real files so maybe let's upvote your comment so Rhett notices it.

    • @gersongomez1876
      @gersongomez1876 3 роки тому

      Ye, he posted in TGP that he uploaded the same file twice lol

    • @sonidojamon
      @sonidojamon 3 роки тому +1

      @@gersongomez1876 well, that's missleading.... I was about to do the same tests.

    • @gersongomez1876
      @gersongomez1876 3 роки тому

      @@sonidojamon in his pinned comments, he replied that he fixed this.

    • @sonidojamon
      @sonidojamon 3 роки тому

      @@gersongomez1876 yeah, nut I downloaded the samples and each one is a different take. This would only work when reamping the same take 3 times, otherwise, the phase cancellation test can't be done.

  • @anthonysilva5312
    @anthonysilva5312 Рік тому

    This is a TON of work and effort. Thank you

  • @EsharpGflat
    @EsharpGflat 3 роки тому

    Fav review I watched so far tbh. I already have one on preorder, and watching this made me more excited for it! I know that you can’t 100% count on promises at purchase, but right now I think this is already shaking things up, and think that with what they say, and the assumption that things like effects (which already sound fine) will be updated too, means that it will make waves.