I'm an old man(68)....been playing my whole adult life.On the road, local in bars and clubs.....ALWAYS used tube amps(Boogie). Never used any of the modelers out there. Almost everything about them goes WAY over my head....I had to "retire' from gigging due to back issues, can't even pick up my Boogie combos anymore! Changed over to Quilter(Superblock US), and really like the sound. Never thought I'd ever say that...and it seems that the digital modeler's sounds, tone and total lightweight convenience is getting better and better. It's a new reality that more and more players are embracing. It just blows me away...I don't have money to try the new stuff, but I love watching yours and others videos on all the new equipment out there! You do a great job, Leon! Keep it up!
It could be that you like the sound of the Quilter Superblock because it is actually a 'traditional' (solid state) guitar amp, and not a digital modeller ;) Th three sounds are created through analog tone control circuits ;)
@@martijn_yt Yes....I am aware that the Quilter is analog solid state, not a digital modeller. I was using the clean channel of my Boogies with pedals, and was drawn to the warm sounds of the Quilter, at a greatly reduced weight.
Still nothing beats the original, Ive been buying modellers and keep on coming back to amps. Modellers satisfied my clean tones but when using their crunch it's just lacking of bite no matter what I do.
I’ve had Fractal FM3, HX Stomp, UAD pedals… on balance, I’ve never felt so happy about a gear. Ampero Stage is just awesome, fun, convenient, easy to use!
Lost months with option paralis. I really learned how to use the FM3 but the UI sucks… in the unit specially. When I changed to Ampero or FTMP I started playing again .
Great video. Love the tones. Fantastic playing. Would have loved to hear vocals through it. Maybe another video for that? As for me, I've got the Pod Go and I'm happy with it. Having the expression pedal on it is a big plus. Good luck with your channel.
@@LeonToddJust got mine Thursday and it's definetly the best sounding modeller i have played! I hope this doesnt seem dumb but i was hoping you could point me in a direction to see how to download the updates and setting up the editor because there is no videos that i have found.
That thing actually seems real nice. I like the adjustable lighting and the overall look of it. Plenty of logical routing options, top-level effects, and just the right size. The editing software options are very nice as well. I was gonna go with a FM3, but this thing actually has my attention!. Also, I think it's time to start throwing some Winger in the demos👍
FM3 is better- especially the new one. The UI however is not as easy. I have had both- the older Ampero II and Fractal FM9. Fractal will just be overall pro level. The II IMHO got a bit fizzy. Cleans were good. Touchscreen was nice. It won't be as reliable. $700 is too much. Get the FM3 MKII Turbo- buy some pre-made presets and be done with it.
Really liking the Stage so far. Only had it a few days but so far it's really impressive. The Mac/PC software is great and easy to navigate too. I've been having some fun with my PRS Custom 24 Piezo going into both inputs and using the Parrarel template and then putting different effects on each input. Pretty fun...especially if you like creating some Ambient sounds. Stage has Looper with Undo/Redo, Drum machine. Total Home Run
Hi, please how many individual output you can use? I need two separtly out for mic and guitar and than third to samples and click. Is it possible? Thanks Jan
@@honzapastor It can't do all that. It has 2 inputs in the back. One strictly for a Guitar or Bass and the 2nd Input can do another instrument or Mic. To do all the stuff you want to do would take a Mixer with more than 2 inputs. Look into this Mixer- Pyle PMX466, 6-Channel DJ Controller Sound Mixer w/ DSP 16 Preset Effects. I got it for under $100 bucks and it's great. Even has some effects to put on the vocals.
I’m not really a modeler guy but have been very interested the last four years. I honestly think this thing does some of the best rhythm tones I’ve heard in a modeler.
Do like I do and buy BOTH. You will find they are both different but each has it's purpose. At home, nightime, quiet, headphones...modeler all the way, especially for cleans. I can also use a modeler and my tube and pedals all together if I want to- helps spread out the sound just space the cabs by 10 feet or so. Really full sound. At home, buy a $20 bluetooth adapter so your cell phone and backing tracks or PC laptop can play through your home stereo.
What I really appreciate is how they have learned from their predecessors' missteps or missing features, especially in the editor. The Helix, for example, can't access global settings in the editor except for the eq. And like you, I think they did a stellar job with the footswitches. The tones may not match up with Fractal, but they are credible to say the least. Very nice job.
Global setting access is important. Even Fractal does not offer this on lower tier offerings. Shame. I returned my $1845 FM9 for that reason and the atrocious UI. Tones were great tough. I did not like the Ampero II other then the cleans. Are the dirties that much better on this one? They sound good in this demo. At home, on the II, it sounded fizzy and thin.
Pretty cool unit. Loved the light under the logo giving visual feedback for the expression pedal. Great video! Would love to hear the Two Notes Opus included in the amp modeling included in the shootout as it's my choice for amp modeling.
I sold my axe fx iii in 2022 because my wife and I became parents. Needed the money, and wasn't playing. I did some hard hitting YT research, and found the ampero ii stomp, picked one up on eBay for $350 US and I'm blown away by how good this thing sounds for a "budget rig" It does everything I want and more, for gigging/recording. I recommend this pro, and beginner alike
Your reviews are the best. I noticed you also reviewed the Nux Trident and provided the Trident with your settings. Nux is a little cheaper buut offers a.o the possibility to tune down and use alternative settings. The Hotone seems more modern and has indeed certainly quality. If money wouldn’t be a problem, what would then be the best option for me who plays blues, bluesrock, modern rock and a little of jazz. Your answer will be very much appreciated!
Just got one of these today, good info. I am really glad I watched this. Just sent back a profile player for lack of immediate options(even when stacked) Iridium will be next but if I can get the kind of gain out of this it is a keeper cause Iridium (unless X0 is just distortion mostly. Have a good one out there thnx again. Rock on!
Totally agree with where the input should be!! I got the Ampero mini the other day and no sound was coming out!! The first input is for the ext foot switch lol the guitar input was second one in!! So I’m with you on this one!!👍👍👍
+1 for Hotone (and the whole Sonicake group) to remember that people exist outside USA. I literally just got the Stomp 2 for 400 USD (a very good price in my country). For comparison, FM3 roughly cost 2000 USD, and the HX Stomp, 1000 USD. Amazing tones as always Leon.
Thank you Leon for your wonderful video tests, really very useful for those facing a choice. I kindly ask you, if in addition to the amps, the Ampero II stage also has good reverbs and delays and good distortion. Thank you for your reply
Great playing and review Leon.. I have the Ampero 2 Stomp. I like it but the lack of a mix parameter in all of the flangers, phasers, all but one chorus, and general modulation effects is a big drawback for me. You get it in the delays and reverbs but not in most any of the modulation effects. Also, no update for the 2 Stomp yet. And ….. I’ve emailed them for support over 3 weeks ago and no answer. Then I tried another email and cannot get their link to tech support to even work. The units sound good and have “some flexibility” but customer support is key ! Also, still cannot find the Stage for sale anywhere in the US ???
PLEASE BE AWARE BEFORE BUYING A HOTONE AMPERO II STAGE: 1. MIDI OUT is not working (yet). I contacted Hotone about this but they can't confirm if this 'feature' will be fixed anywhere in 2024. 2. You cannot RENAME Scenes to 'Intro', 'Chorus' etc. It will just be 'Scene 1', 'Scene 2', etc. Just so you know.
@@MrETS68 Leo Fender discusses his contact with Hotone in one of his recent videos about the Stage. Apparently they are actually planning to fix these issues in a future update. But when…?
Awesome video. 1. Can you play backing tracks and samples from your phone via Bluetooth, and it come / play out of the direct line out to FOH? I can with my Headrush Core. 2. Is the switching between patches seamless I.e without lag? 3. Can seperate patches also be assigned to buttons 6 and 7, or are you limited to 5?
Great demo. Hotone continues to impress. I own the OG Ampero and it sounds really good overall. As I just use it at home, I don't need much more features but if I was a gigging musician, thia new unit would be an instant buy.
Dude... It is killer... I got mine about a week ago.. sounds absolutely sick and so damn easy to dial in.. The editor still needs some work, and the app just needs to be updated to work in landscape mode for using with a tablet.. but other than that, they nailed it.
Good day, dear Leon! Amazed by your production, there would be two topics which would be very interesting for the "modern" guitarist: a) reamping with amp modellers like the new hotone Ampero II stage b) midi automation for live situation with such modellers 😀 Maybe you can help here out with some tutorials? 🤘🏻😉 Greets
I pulled the trigger on this one. Hopefully I will be happy with it and it will replace my Pod GO. The deciding factor for me was the dual input/output independent paths. I have a PRS SE Piezo with dual outputs and hopefully this unit will make it easy to use this guitar to its full potential. I am hoping to run a piezo channel independently of magnetic channel and mix it at the output. Fingers crosses.
Only thing that I really don’t like about hotone is the cpu usage If you build a pedal and it can’t do it to fill the blocks all the way through why build it
Sounds good, somehow you dial out the "crispy high end" that exists in so many modeler demos! The wall wart pays off ihn time, I believe it is exactly why those of us with vintage Rocktron racks aren't getting hit with PS recapping issues like the vintage Yamaha racks.
thanks for the review. For the older ampero II stomp users the major problem with this new unit is that a lot of its features were missed promised updates for the II Stomp. Those "future updates" were never delivered. Ampero II Stomp are waiting for scenes and gapless transitions effects for more than an year now. The terrible stomp mode switch that terrifies everybody that use the unit to play live are also a promised fix. Both units share the same DSP power but Hotone support was really bad and never delivered what is being promised.
Impressive! When it comes to modeling devices, Leon seems to have the info and opinions I trust the most because he spends the most time diving into the tones and features of all the top hitters. I can tell from his enthusiasm with the Stage, that it’s a unit I should consider. I’m eager to try one! Thanks, Leon! 🤘🤘
Really wanted to hear more of it with the stock cabs. I'd love one of these units that I don't have to fuck about with third party IR's, but you're doing mostly your IR. Show us the sounds the unit makes by itself.
Nice demo. It sounds good. I did not care for the dirty tones on the Ampero II. Is this much better? Would you take this over a Fractal FM3 Mk II Turbo which is $400 more- sometimes $100 off? How is the PC Editor?
good day! thank you for your review! I recently purchased this processor and would like you to demonstrate in your next video a detailed use of the OTG function, and the ability to broadcast audio from the processor to the streaming platform directly. Thank you for your video!
Hi Leon. Happy new year. I hope you are doing great. Let me ask you a question. Hotone Ampero 2 or Headrush Flex Prime? Do the captures/clones have the same fidelity? Do the clouds of each one have enough users and captures/clones? Thanks in advance. Kind regards.
"HotTone" would require 2 T's if based on the English language, so let's put this one to bed finally. It's "HoTone". (yes, I am that guy...sometimes) 🤪
I have an axefx3 and the ampero mini. Some of the models of the ampero are almost as good as the axefx (especially with my own ir's) It's pretty amazing and very affordable.
One thing I wish is that more people would do demos of modellers where they just go through all the all models, dry. Everyone seems to focus mostly on features and bells and whistles, or you may find that one demo of someone showing the basic amp sounds, but he’s only demoing the metal amps. Or the clean amps. This is not a criticism aimed at Leon; every TH-camr does the same. The fact is, I’m not going to shell out hundreds (or thousands) of dollars on a unit that emulates amps without first hearing how well it emulates those amps, without being coated in effects.
Great demo! I have a question, maybe you have a video and I missed it but if cost was not an issue what would be your choice for personal demo recording when away from home? I have a large (I hate to call it this as it is mine from the before times a "Boomer Rack") rack with some very nice sounding gear and recently added an Axe-FX III mostly to provide some additional flexibility effect wise and I am very impressed. As a former legend in my own mind from the 80's I compare the sounds of potential gear to what I use in my rack, TC 1210, Song Bird, PCM 70s, H3000, etc. with a couple of pre/power amp combinations. I really don't want to compromise the sounds so ideally it would be a unit that have the sound quality of a full blown 80's rack able to capture Huff, Landdau, Luke and with a bit of Lynch thrown in. I would prefer XLR outputs but not a deal breaker, the tri stereo chorus needs to "set the mood" and it would be a big plus having the ability to run the equivalent of reverb and delay in parallel. The topping on the triple scoop banana split sundae would be the ability to mix back in the dry signal at the end of the signal chain...... not to much to ask is it???? Love the channel content.... Mike
Just got mine yesterday and it’s a great piece of equipment. What im missing is that you can save the effects with settings. Hope this will come wich an update ✌️
Thanks for the video, very useful! I love your playing and that really helps watching the videos. Could you give an opinion for the Ampero 2 Stage comparing to high end products like kemper/qc for live performance and studio recording? Do you believe is a viable solution for mid budget guitarists? Or something that will buy now change later . I know an answer for this question has to take a lot into account, such as where do you play, sound quality for music and what do you actually want from the unit. But for the simplicity let's say you play small-medium gigs, and record wise demos or even keep one great sound for somethings in a album or single.
Hey man! Been looking for a review of this since last week and you're the first review in english, you have my sub! My question is and i'm not sure if i have missed it but does scene mode also allows you to change different parameters and effects per scene? Or is it just the effects turned on/off?
BRO! Now that they announced amp and pedal capturing for the new floorboard unit you NEED to do some capture demo's! I imagine they're probably going ot drop a firmware update for the stage soon after the Ampero 2 Floor drops
I been watching videos on this and I really see no difference from the stomp II to Stage II. That goes for modeling, amount of blocks etc. The only difference is it can do scenes but I honestly think the stomp II next update hopefully will allow this. I mean even the processing power is pretty much the same. The menus look different but they operate the same exact way. I do believe the Stomp II has more MID functions and that's only because the Stage is a complete system for the floor where the stomp is small and meant to be expandable. Hmmm. I honestly could not see myself upgrading plus the stomp 2 is small and fits on the desk better. Great video by the way.
@Leon Todd Around 32:00 you say that at that pricerange there's nothing else that touches this. Speaking strictly about amp sounds, how realistic they are (I don't care about options or quantity of amps for this question), how does Amperium Live compare to this. They say that the amp and IR sounds on Amperium Live, is comparable to the Fractal products. I'm not sure but i think you said so,ething similar when you presented it.
The Amperium sounds excellent, and the capture function is a great addition. The onboard editing is very limiting and the effects selection/routing isn't as flexible as this. There's also fewer footswitches and limited USB audio capability. For pure amp modeling/capturing it's got the edge, but as a fully fleshed out "pro" unit the Ampero its mighty impressive.
@@LeonTodd Thank you very much for the answer. I hope that in a few while I will be in the position of getting a mid price unit. My focus will be strictly amp sound and feel. The only thing that troubles me is that I don't have a lot of feedback about St Rock products' reliability and customer support. I hope that as time goes by we'll have more information and feedback from customers. I wouldn't pull the trigger in one of Atomic Amplifire products for instance, although I love the way their amp models sound and feel, for these exact reasons. Again thank you very much for your answer (and your excellent videos and playing of course)
That was a superb demo - Hotone are a favorite of mine - and you clearly enjoyed discovering the great sounds. I tried the Ampero Silver Ltd but the OD sounds put me off. Does this one respond to guitar dynamics the way a real tube amp does? Previous I didnt FEEL or recognise MY guitar thro the Ampero and I love to control OD with GTR volm/tone...thnx
Hi Leon. I was wondering how come the bass is at 0 on your mark IV model. Are you simply using the graphic EQ for that. The patch sounds so good but didn’t think it would with having no bass?. Cheers
Hi there. Thank you for your video and insights. I believe this unit has great potential. I would be nice to see the possibility to rename each scene, Like “Clean”, “Crunch”… or “Verse”, “Bridge”, “Chorus”… and color each scene differently for easy reference and on the fly use. On the Editor it would be nice to be able to create folders to organize presets for different purposes, by “Band” and such… Let us all push for these improvements and help Hotone to have an even better unit. Thanks.
I'm very curious about this unit. The data points on this unit are sick and sound is always my first priority along with intuitive functionality. I'm also looking at the FM3...but I like the ampero tones
I'm an old man(68)....been playing my whole adult life.On the road, local in bars and clubs.....ALWAYS used tube amps(Boogie). Never used any of the modelers out there. Almost everything about them goes WAY over my head....I had to "retire' from gigging due to back issues, can't even pick up my Boogie combos anymore! Changed over to Quilter(Superblock US), and really like the sound. Never thought I'd ever say that...and it seems that the digital modeler's sounds, tone and total lightweight convenience is getting better and better. It's a new reality that more and more players are embracing. It just blows me away...I don't have money to try the new stuff, but I love watching yours and others videos on all the new equipment out there! You do a great job, Leon! Keep it up!
Sell your Boogies (or one) and try some new stuff.
It could be that you like the sound of the Quilter Superblock because it is actually a 'traditional' (solid state) guitar amp, and not a digital modeller ;) Th three sounds are created through analog tone control circuits ;)
just sell what you haven't been using and try some new stuff.
@@martijn_yt Yes....I am aware that the Quilter is analog solid state, not a digital modeller. I was using the clean channel of my Boogies with pedals, and was drawn to the warm sounds of the Quilter, at a greatly reduced weight.
Still nothing beats the original, Ive been buying modellers and keep on coming back to amps. Modellers satisfied my clean tones but when using their crunch it's just lacking of bite no matter what I do.
I’ve had Fractal FM3, HX Stomp, UAD pedals… on balance, I’ve never felt so happy about a gear. Ampero Stage is just awesome, fun, convenient, easy to use!
Why not staying on FM3? Bad UI or too many options?
Lost months with option paralis. I really learned how to use the FM3 but the UI sucks… in the unit specially. When I changed to Ampero or FTMP I started playing again .
Wow. $700 USD. Hotone continuously updates their gear. Best time EVAH to be a guitarist. Thanks Leon and Best Regards and Best Wishes!
Your channel ALWAYS has the most honest, practical and informative equipment reviews. Thanks for another great review!
I appreciate that!
Great Rush Hemispheres chords there starting at 16:00 great review and overview. Keep it up.
Been a fractal user for years ,but got to say this sounds awesome 👍🏻🎸😎
Great playing. The Ampero II sounds fantastic.
Finally a in depth review!!! Thank you! Great work!
I have the Hotone Ampero OG and felt in love instantly, but i need the Ampero II Stage now 😂
They've leveled up hey
Ordered mine! I'm sold! Thanks Leon!!!
Great video. Love the tones. Fantastic playing. Would have loved to hear vocals through it. Maybe another video for that? As for me, I've got the Pod Go and I'm happy with it. Having the expression pedal on it is a big plus. Good luck with your channel.
Very nicely designed unit. Love the layout and the separate stomp buttons.
Thanks a lot, Leon!!! You are one of the best YT channels about Modellers (maybe my favorite channel). Cheers from Mexico!!! 🇲🇽
Thanks mate!
@@LeonToddJust got mine Thursday and it's definetly the best sounding modeller i have played! I hope this doesnt seem dumb but i was hoping you could point me in a direction to see how to download the updates and setting up the editor because there is no videos that i have found.
Checked this out awhile back. Looks like my best option now that you've reviewed it. Thanks so much! It's on my wishlist for sure!😎🎸
I just got the Boss GX-100 a month or so ago and you’ve made me pull the trigger on this one too. This thing looks and sounds amazing!!
Gorgeous looking multi fx
That was fire! Very good sounds
That thing actually seems real nice. I like the adjustable lighting and the overall look of it. Plenty of logical routing options, top-level effects, and just the right size. The editing software options are very nice as well. I was gonna go with a FM3, but this thing actually has my attention!.
Also, I think it's time to start throwing some Winger in the demos👍
Blind Revolution Mad!
FM3 is better- especially the new one. The UI however is not as easy. I have had both- the older Ampero II and Fractal FM9. Fractal will just be overall pro level. The II IMHO got a bit fizzy. Cleans were good. Touchscreen was nice. It won't be as reliable. $700 is too much. Get the FM3 MKII Turbo- buy some pre-made presets and be done with it.
Really liking the Stage so far. Only had it a few days but so far it's really impressive. The Mac/PC software is great and easy to navigate too. I've been having some fun with my PRS Custom 24 Piezo going into both inputs and using the Parrarel template and then putting different effects on each input. Pretty fun...especially if you like creating some Ambient sounds. Stage has Looper with Undo/Redo, Drum machine. Total Home Run
Hi, please how many individual output you can use? I need two separtly out for mic and guitar and than third to samples and click. Is it possible? Thanks Jan
@@honzapastor It can't do all that. It has 2 inputs in the back. One strictly for a Guitar or Bass and the 2nd Input can do another instrument or Mic. To do all the stuff you want to do would take a Mixer with more than 2 inputs. Look into this Mixer- Pyle PMX466, 6-Channel DJ Controller Sound Mixer w/ DSP 16 Preset Effects. I got it for under $100 bucks and it's great. Even has some effects to put on the vocals.
5 scenes is very cool, that would cover 98% of my needs on individual songs!
I’m not really a modeler guy but have been very interested the last four years. I honestly think this thing does some of the best rhythm tones I’ve heard in a modeler.
Do like I do and buy BOTH. You will find they are both different but each has it's purpose. At home, nightime, quiet, headphones...modeler all the way, especially for cleans. I can also use a modeler and my tube and pedals all together if I want to- helps spread out the sound just space the cabs by 10 feet or so. Really full sound. At home, buy a $20 bluetooth adapter so your cell phone and backing tracks or PC laptop can play through your home stereo.
I'd love a FM9 but this is so much less money and sounds damn good. Great demo Leon 💯
it's so beautiful!!! it looks like something straight out of star wars!!!
Finally a decent in depth and pro review. Thanks man!
Thanks for shedding light on this Unit Leon! Gonna go check one out 🤘🎸
Like the rack sims, looks like a good unit. Another slick video Leon
Hotone have stepped up there game and It sure has a lot to offer at that price point. Thanks for the demo Leon
Wicked playing and sound! 😎🤘🏻
This sounds incredible. Not completely sold on its processing power, but soundwise it's legit.
What I really appreciate is how they have learned from their predecessors' missteps or missing features, especially in the editor. The Helix, for example, can't access global settings in the editor except for the eq. And like you, I think they did a stellar job with the footswitches. The tones may not match up with Fractal, but they are credible to say the least. Very nice job.
Global setting access is important. Even Fractal does not offer this on lower tier offerings. Shame. I returned my $1845 FM9 for that reason and the atrocious UI. Tones were great tough. I did not like the Ampero II other then the cleans. Are the dirties that much better on this one? They sound good in this demo. At home, on the II, it sounded fizzy and thin.
best guitar content channel on youtube.👍
Pretty cool unit. Loved the light under the logo giving visual feedback for the expression pedal. Great video! Would love to hear the Two Notes Opus included in the amp modeling included in the shootout as it's my choice for amp modeling.
I sold my axe fx iii in 2022 because my wife and I became parents. Needed the money, and wasn't playing. I did some hard hitting YT research, and found the ampero ii stomp, picked one up on eBay for $350 US and I'm blown away by how good this thing sounds for a "budget rig"
It does everything I want and more, for gigging/recording. I recommend this pro, and beginner alike
Congrats on becoming a parent mate! These are great units
@LeonTodd thanks, I appreciate you man. 🙏🏻 quick question, does the software on the ampero stage support the ampero ii stomp? Or are they different?
Sell the kids! Unlimited modelers!!! Jk 😅😂
Thanks to this good competition!
Great demo by a great player !
Your reviews are the best. I noticed you also reviewed the Nux Trident and provided the Trident with your settings. Nux is a little cheaper buut offers a.o the possibility to tune down and use alternative settings. The Hotone seems more modern and has indeed certainly quality. If money wouldn’t be a problem, what would then be the best option for me who plays blues, bluesrock, modern rock and a little of jazz. Your answer will be very much appreciated!
No more tears! 🤘
I like that you played the Marigold riff with the Precision Overdrive pedal :D
Just got one of these today, good info. I am really glad I watched this. Just sent back a profile player for lack of immediate options(even when stacked) Iridium will be next but if I can get the kind of gain out of this it is a keeper cause Iridium (unless X0 is just distortion mostly. Have a good one out there thnx again. Rock on!
Time to see is Leo Gibson has a video on the Latency of this unit!
Totally agree with where the input should be!! I got the Ampero mini the other day and no sound was coming out!! The first input is for the ext foot switch lol the guitar input was second one in!! So I’m with you on this one!!👍👍👍
Looks like something they pulled out of the Death Star
Total storm trooper vibe going on
Oh don't say that ...that just adds an extra layer of me wanting one 😂 I ❤️the Empire
Impressive, most Impressive...
Nerd alert!!
@@jhonpasquez6145 lol self confessed
This thing sounds killer
very nice review so far..i love this multi fx.
Thanks!
+1 for Hotone (and the whole Sonicake group) to remember that people exist outside USA. I literally just got the Stomp 2 for 400 USD (a very good price in my country). For comparison, FM3 roughly cost 2000 USD, and the HX Stomp, 1000 USD. Amazing tones as always Leon.
Thank you Leon for your wonderful video tests, really very useful for those facing a choice. I kindly ask you, if in addition to the amps, the Ampero II stage also has good reverbs and delays and good distortion. Thank you for your reply
Great playing and review Leon.. I have the Ampero 2 Stomp. I like it but the lack of a mix parameter in all of the flangers, phasers, all but one chorus, and general modulation effects is a big drawback for me. You get it in the delays and reverbs but not in most any of the modulation effects. Also, no update for the 2 Stomp yet. And ….. I’ve emailed them for support over 3 weeks ago and no answer. Then I tried another email and cannot get their link to tech support to even work.
The units sound good and have “some flexibility” but customer support is key !
Also, still cannot find the Stage for sale anywhere in the US ???
PLEASE BE AWARE BEFORE BUYING A HOTONE AMPERO II STAGE:
1. MIDI OUT is not working (yet). I contacted Hotone about this but they can't confirm if this 'feature' will be fixed anywhere in 2024.
2. You cannot RENAME Scenes to 'Intro', 'Chorus' etc. It will just be 'Scene 1', 'Scene 2', etc.
Just so you know.
So not a finished product then, I was thinking about buying this but not anymore,
thanks for this info…
@@MrETS68 Leo Fender discusses his contact with Hotone in one of his recent videos about the Stage. Apparently they are actually planning to fix these issues in a future update. But when…?
@@peterschermers Good to hear, hope it will be soon…
Awesome video.
1. Can you play backing tracks and samples from your phone via Bluetooth, and it come / play out of the direct line out to FOH? I can with my Headrush Core.
2. Is the switching between patches seamless I.e without lag?
3. Can seperate patches also be assigned to buttons 6 and 7, or are you limited to 5?
Great demo. Hotone continues to impress. I own the OG Ampero and it sounds really good overall. As I just use it at home, I don't need much more features but if I was a gigging musician, thia new unit would be an instant buy.
Awesome video!!!
Please do those follow up and shootout videos, let's see what this pedal is capable of🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩
Dude... It is killer... I got mine about a week ago.. sounds absolutely sick and so damn easy to dial in.. The editor still needs some work, and the app just needs to be updated to work in landscape mode for using with a tablet.. but other than that, they nailed it.
Sounds pretty good! Also looks good in a Space 1999 sort of way!
Yeah the amps sound good and there's some killer fx in there!
I thought the same thing as far as its aesthetic. It really reminds me of how early 2000's video games portrayed the future. Looks really cool.
EXCELLENT...Thank you very much!!!
Awesome bit of kit for the money can’t go wrong
Always love your gear reviews Leon. The 2290 sounds good, but I’ll stick with my FM9 and the 2290P of course.
Good day, dear Leon!
Amazed by your production, there would be two topics which would be very interesting for the "modern" guitarist:
a) reamping with amp modellers like the new hotone Ampero II stage
b) midi automation for live situation with such modellers 😀
Maybe you can help here out with some tutorials? 🤘🏻😉
Greets
I pulled the trigger on this one. Hopefully I will be happy with it and it will replace my Pod GO. The deciding factor for me was the dual input/output independent paths. I have a PRS SE Piezo with dual outputs and hopefully this unit will make it easy to use this guitar to its full potential. I am hoping to run a piezo channel independently of magnetic channel and mix it at the output. Fingers crosses.
Should be able to do that pretty easily
Only thing that I really don’t like about hotone is the cpu usage
If you build a pedal and it can’t do it to fill the blocks all the way through why build it
Sounds good, somehow you dial out the "crispy high end" that exists in so many modeler demos! The wall wart pays off ihn time, I believe it is exactly why those of us with vintage Rocktron racks aren't getting hit with PS recapping issues like the vintage Yamaha racks.
Hey Leon you sound great as usual. Do you know if this stage unit pairs the cabs with the amps, because I know the stomp ll doesnt
Great Vid bro. If you had the cash to get this or the quad Cortex which would you get?
thanks for the review. For the older ampero II stomp users the major problem with this new unit is that a lot of its features were missed promised updates for the II Stomp. Those "future updates" were never delivered. Ampero II Stomp are waiting for scenes and gapless transitions effects for more than an year now. The terrible stomp mode switch that terrifies everybody that use the unit to play live are also a promised fix.
Both units share the same DSP power but Hotone support was really bad and never delivered what is being promised.
well Stomp 2 already got the update. Added scenes and few new things
Impressive! When it comes to modeling devices, Leon seems to have the info and opinions I trust the most because he spends the most time diving into the tones and features of all the top hitters. I can tell from his enthusiasm with the Stage, that it’s a unit I should consider. I’m eager to try one! Thanks, Leon! 🤘🤘
Really wanted to hear more of it with the stock cabs. I'd love one of these units that I don't have to fuck about with third party IR's, but you're doing mostly your IR. Show us the sounds the unit makes by itself.
Grabbing one for fun. Cheers for the video mate
Enjoy it!
Nice demo. It sounds good. I did not care for the dirty tones on the Ampero II. Is this much better?
Would you take this over a Fractal FM3 Mk II Turbo which is $400 more- sometimes $100 off? How is the PC Editor?
Great review
good day! thank you for your review! I recently purchased this processor and would like you to demonstrate in your next video a detailed use of the OTG function, and the ability to broadcast audio from the processor to the streaming platform directly. Thank you for your video!
@leontodd, having a few more videos of the A2S would be awesome! :)
If they did a magnatone amp. they would have something no one else has yet. Nice Demo LEON as yours always are!!!
Just have Slash show up and play for you 😂
Hi Leon. Happy new year. I hope you are doing great. Let me ask you a question. Hotone Ampero 2 or Headrush Flex Prime? Do the captures/clones have the same fidelity? Do the clouds of each one have enough users and captures/clones? Thanks in advance. Kind regards.
"HotTone" would require 2 T's if based on the English language, so let's put this one to bed finally. It's "HoTone". (yes, I am that guy...sometimes) 🤪
I have an axefx3 and the ampero mini. Some of the models of the ampero are almost as good as the axefx (especially with my own ir's) It's pretty amazing and very affordable.
The Marshalls and Mesas are really good hey
@@LeonTodd Yes, the engl amps are also very good.
Scene mode is sick!!!
Very Good! The sound we are hearing is from where? Is it through a computer /studio monitor or from an Amp? Please help
Great video mate! What guitar are you using on this video?
No input pitch shifter?
Leon! This ampero or the BOSS gx100?
Wow ! Awesome ! What is the song you play in 29:23 ?
Marigold by Periphery
One thing I wish is that more people would do demos of modellers where they just go through all the all models, dry. Everyone seems to focus mostly on features and bells and whistles, or you may find that one demo of someone showing the basic amp sounds, but he’s only demoing the metal amps. Or the clean amps. This is not a criticism aimed at Leon; every TH-camr does the same. The fact is, I’m not going to shell out hundreds (or thousands) of dollars on a unit that emulates amps without first hearing how well it emulates those amps, without being coated in effects.
Great demo!
I have a question, maybe you have a video and I missed it but if cost was not an issue what would be your choice for personal demo recording when away from home? I have a large (I hate to call it this as it is mine from the before times a "Boomer Rack") rack with some very nice sounding gear and recently added an Axe-FX III mostly to provide some additional flexibility effect wise and I am very impressed. As a former legend in my own mind from the 80's I compare the sounds of potential gear to what I use in my rack, TC 1210, Song Bird, PCM 70s, H3000, etc. with a couple of pre/power amp combinations. I really don't want to compromise the sounds so ideally it would be a unit that have the sound quality of a full blown 80's rack able to capture Huff, Landdau, Luke and with a bit of Lynch thrown in. I would prefer XLR outputs but not a deal breaker, the tri stereo chorus needs to "set the mood" and it would be a big plus having the ability to run the equivalent of reverb and delay in parallel. The topping on the triple scoop banana split sundae would be the ability to mix back in the dry signal at the end of the signal chain...... not to much to ask is it????
Love the channel content....
Mike
That's all the best rack gear! Immaculate taste.
I'd just use an FM3 or FM9 in that scenario. Plugins and a laptop would be fine, as would this
@LeonTodd Thank you Leon, 😊
sounds pretty good love the functionality of it is it a Fractal no but it’s damn good for what it does and sounds good.
Just got mine yesterday and it’s a great piece of equipment. What im missing is that you can save the effects with settings. Hope this will come wich an update ✌️
Good morning 🇨🇦🤘🏼
Morning!
Thanks for the video, very useful! I love your playing and that really helps watching the videos. Could you give an opinion for the Ampero 2 Stage comparing to high end products like kemper/qc for live performance and studio recording? Do you believe is a viable solution for mid budget guitarists? Or something that will buy now change later . I know an answer for this question has to take a lot into account, such as where do you play, sound quality for music and what do you actually want from the unit. But for the simplicity let's say you play small-medium gigs, and record wise demos or even keep one great sound for somethings in a album or single.
This will absolutely hold it's own as a live rig or for recording. Great price too.
Incredible! Thank you for that! One question please, does this run 2 stereo amps in parallel?
Yes
Hi Leon. Great video 👏 Question… Is it possible to rename scenes? Thanks
Yes👍
Hey man! Been looking for a review of this since last week and you're the first review in english, you have my sub!
My question is and i'm not sure if i have missed it but does scene mode also allows you to change different parameters and effects per scene? Or is it just the effects turned on/off?
Awesome, thank you!
BRO! Now that they announced amp and pedal capturing for the new floorboard unit you NEED to do some capture demo's! I imagine they're probably going ot drop a firmware update for the stage soon after the Ampero 2 Floor drops
Whaaaaat!
I been watching videos on this and I really see no difference from the stomp II to Stage II. That goes for modeling, amount of blocks etc. The only difference is it can do scenes but I honestly think the stomp II next update hopefully will allow this. I mean even the processing power is pretty much the same. The menus look different but they operate the same exact way. I do believe the Stomp II has more MID functions and that's only because the Stage is a complete system for the floor where the stomp is small and meant to be expandable. Hmmm. I honestly could not see myself upgrading plus the stomp 2 is small and fits on the desk better. Great video by the way.
@Leon Todd Around 32:00 you say that at that pricerange there's nothing else that touches this.
Speaking strictly about amp sounds, how realistic they are (I don't care about options or quantity of amps for this question), how does Amperium Live compare to this.
They say that the amp and IR sounds on Amperium Live, is comparable to the Fractal products.
I'm not sure but i think you said so,ething similar when you presented it.
The Amperium sounds excellent, and the capture function is a great addition. The onboard editing is very limiting and the effects selection/routing isn't as flexible as this. There's also fewer footswitches and limited USB audio capability. For pure amp modeling/capturing it's got the edge, but as a fully fleshed out "pro" unit the Ampero its mighty impressive.
@@LeonTodd Thank you very much for the answer. I hope that in a few while I will be in the position of getting a mid price unit. My focus will be strictly amp sound and feel. The only thing that troubles me is that I don't have a lot of feedback about St Rock products' reliability and customer support. I hope that as time goes by we'll have more information and feedback from customers. I wouldn't pull the trigger in one of Atomic Amplifire products for instance, although I love the way their amp models sound and feel, for these exact reasons. Again thank you very much for your answer (and your excellent videos and playing of course)
That was a superb demo - Hotone are a favorite of mine - and you clearly enjoyed discovering the great sounds. I tried the Ampero Silver Ltd but the OD sounds put me off. Does this one respond to guitar dynamics the way a real tube amp does? Previous I didnt FEEL or recognise MY guitar thro the Ampero and I love to control OD with GTR volm/tone...thnx
Hi Leon. I was wondering how come the bass is at 0 on your mark IV model. Are you simply using the graphic EQ for that. The patch sounds so good but didn’t think it would with having no bass?. Cheers
I have just bought this unit... I will copy your preset because I am new in this new digital direction. Thank you so mutch...
Hope you enjoy it!
Seems really nice especially at that price point 👍
Hi Leon does it save different parameter settings in scenes in a way that the Helix does in snapshots ?
Hi there. Thank you for your video and insights. I believe this unit has great potential. I would be nice to see the possibility to rename each scene, Like “Clean”, “Crunch”… or “Verse”, “Bridge”, “Chorus”… and color each scene differently for easy reference and on the fly use. On the Editor it would be nice to be able to create folders to organize presets for different purposes, by “Band” and such… Let us all push for these improvements and help Hotone to have an even better unit. Thanks.
Great video as always!. I wonder if you can change parameters per scene like what line 6 does.
Half price of the QC makes this incredibly tempting
Thanks for this video! Do you think it makes sense to compare this modeler to the Quad Cortex in terms of sound/ tones ?
I'm very curious about this unit. The data points on this unit are sick and sound is always my first priority along with intuitive functionality. I'm also looking at the FM3...but I like the ampero tones
FM3 is clearly better in many ways and capabilities- just less fun UI. I've had both. FM9 is next level- dual amp capable.