Pulze vs Spark Mini vs Micro Cube (My 3 Favorites)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 19 พ.ค. 2024
- Today I'm comparing the Hotone Pulze, Spark Mini by Positive Grid, and the Roland Micro Cube. These are my three favorite practice amps, and I wanted to compare them to see which ones I'd want to keep.
I hope you enjoy!
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I hate apps too. I guess I'm old school. My practice rig is the Monoprice/Harley Benton 5 watt tube amp and a Valeton GP-100 modeller. They're about $150 usd each. I like this set up because it is so versatile. More effects (including wah/vol pedal) without fussy apps and I can switch a larger variety of sounds with a pedal.
I have that same Valeton modeller as well! It makes my Yamaha THR amps seem much more versatile. They work well together.
Cool 😊
Classic Elmo, made all 3 practice amps sound great. I have the micro cube which I dig a lot, but I think the Ho sounded pretty darn good. Good video Elmo, really good stuff.
Thanks :)
I still love my micro cube. Keeping it forever. Great practice amp. Perfect travel companion.
It really is.
Roland, Boss and Peavey. Best unsung names in music.
I guess it depends what a person wants in an amp. I don’t think any of these is a bad choice. They all sound great.
The Roland is a favorite of busking musicians. That’s something the consider. It just sounds great no matter what. The Positive Grid is nice, but it seems a bit small - if they’d upgrade the Spark 40 hardware and speakers that lack bass, I’d say that would probably be amazing for most homes while still providing enough volume if you did want to play along with others in a small basement (I’m hoping PG will update the 40 soon because it’s the fourth year now since it was released and is overdue for a refresh.) The Hotone seems very expensive and doesn’t sound that much better than the Positive Grid Mini or 40, and for people who like fiddling with apps, it’s just not as user friendly and robust as the Positive Grid Spark app.
So in terms of these three amp options, if you want simplicity, volume, and/or to experiment with pedals, go for a Roland. If you want lots of tones without pedals and don’t need as much volume, the Mini is likely your jam (plus you can always plug that into a larger cabinet if you want down the line). For me, the Hotone is nice but seems overpriced for what it offers.
Elmo, you should check out the Jamstack 2. It’s a really high quality micro amp with incredible definition and volume. The tones are really good - some of the built in ones are not my style, but you can use their app to make your own . . . AND their amp is compatible with nearly every mobile pedal/amp tone apps out there, both free and paid. It’s the only amp that doesn’t lock you into their own app. You can also pair multiple amps for stereo/surround. They will soon have lots of accessories including wireless modules that have zero audio delay because it’s using a new wireless technology that is different than Bluetooth. It can handle not just guitars, but basses, keyboards, e-violins, and anything else you can toss at it - they all sound great from what I’ve heard. There are few amps out there that are so versatile, let alone micro sized amps. I’d love your honest opinion and to hear how you think it stack against your favorite amps.
I also heard there’s a new Boss Katana due for release soon. Would love your take on that amp as well because I keep hearing the MkII is an incredible amp for not too much money.
I'll probably check it out.
I upgraded from a micro cube to a Fender Mustang LT25 and I gotta say I kinda miss the miss the simplicity of the cube (which I'm never getting rid of.) I love LOVE the 'Brit Combo' channel on the cube and used it and the Rectifier channel almost exclusively. With a pedal or two you can get some gnarly tones out of that little amp. BUT I think its biggest drawback is that it lacks the oomph or presence in the room to create 'sympathetic' feedback. (Basically vibrating your guitar/strings and creating sustain in a GOOD way.) When I discovered that, I knew I wanted something just a little bit bigger, even for practice.
Fair enough
I got a spark mini thanks to your review ! I've been playing guitar for a month and it's my very first amp and i'm loving it ! thanks a lot !
that's a miracle marvel amp, compared to my first amp ... it's amazing what they can pack into a practice amp now, and offer them at reasonably affordable price.
mine was a 10 watt + 10" speaker, all solid state ...very abrasive simple solid state distortion, and tone controls, that's it.....well wait no, that was my second amp.....my first amp was actually the little Tube amp in my Sears Silvertone Guitar Case ... amp in the case, and it did sound better, but not as loud.....Spark Mini tops them both for reliable flexibility by a long shot though.
Glad you do 😊
I bought my Roland MicroCube new eons ago..and it’s such a sweet little amp!! I’ll never get rid of it…granted it’s not as powerful as say my 5150 Icon 40w…but it’s still a pretty fun plug in!! Thanks Elmo for the super video!! Awesomeness
Simply the best! Thank you Elmo for your honest reviews.
I think the work you are doing on this channel has very few comparisons in the TH-cam landscape. Very often I agree with your conclusions and even when I disagree you can show me things from a different point of view. I hope you will always continue like this. Rocks!🤟🏻
Glad you like them!
I don't know much about 2 of them, but I once owned a Micro Cube, and it was a love/hate thing. It was good for what it was - fun. The bad thing was when when it went (and it will), it went massively and there's no repairing it - just a massive paper weight. I have 2 Yamaha THR amps that are older, and they're still doing their jobs.
Some will go, some won't. I have two that are older than any THR.
You're killing it Man🤘🤘
Thank you 😊
The Spark lasted 1 week before I sold it. Not spending €400+ for practice amp, The Cube is the winner for €80…I am using a €80 Blackstar fly3. It does the job, and if I need more, I can rollout the Marshall sliver jubilee ;)
Cool 😊
Keep up the good work, love your videos.
Thanks, will do!
I have to admit that I enjoyed that comparison very much! One can say different things about how good each one of these amplifiers is. Strictly personally, I am surprised of how well the CUBE stands against stuff that is a lot more technologically advanced! A true classic. Keep up the good work! 👍
Absolutely.
I love both my Spark amps. I have the 40 and the GO. But hearing the tonal possibilities in the Hotone Pulse is kind of a revelation. I’m a big fan of the depth of the reverb and delay it appears to have. The ambience just washes over you. (Not to mention that amazingly novel retro-radio look! I love that!)
The delay does seem to have depth.
@@MrPolevaulter I agree. I experienced a similar phenomenon with my N-UX MP3 (headphone amp). There’s an amazing depth, as you say, to the delay on one of the pre-configured tones. It sounds almost like a synthesizer accompaniment. I’d like to do some ambient stuff with it. It created kind of a cool effect. Just need a way to connect it to my audio interface.
I baught a Micro Cube on ebay for 50€...
Its s really good practise amp...
Clean the dust off that Micro Cube Elmo and give it some love! :D
I havent tried the Pulze yet but they all sound good - I've been using the Spark Mini to teach with lately and it covers a lot more ground then I thought it would (plus the playback for tracks is great).
Honestly Elmo, just pick the most practical option and push on with that as I've had to force myself to do the same when guys like us have too many options :)
Great video as always,
Gabe
They sure do :)
I have a Spark 40, the Spark Go, Roland MicroCube, and a Pignose. The Pignose 7-100 sounds the best and takes pedals well.
Elmo you make everything sound good... I just picked up my 7th micro cube and have to say it's still the best portable battery powered amp ever made... Especially for smooth jazz clean tones with chorus.. Which is my style these days.. Classic stack is decent for my rock 80s tone.. But rectifier is horrible period..... Battery powered is the best feature and in a nutshell. I've made a living with the micro cube since it came out. And find myself always looking for another one if if breaks lol....
It sure is good :)
Great stuff man- what picks do you use again??
This video is gold bro
Cheers!
If it is the micro again, I'm gonna buy one!
🤣
I love spark😊always working away so my spark and ibanez s 540:-)its perfect for working away.All the best Sir.
Thanks!
Great video Elmo, as usual you make them all sound great and I totally understand your dilemma in trying for a diminutive conclusion!
Cheers!
I got the Spark Mini because sometimes it's just too nice outside to not enjoy it with something on the grill and a cold brew. In the past, by the time I set up my practice amp there would be extension cords and cables all over the back deck. Along with the Mini I also picked up the wireless 4-selector foot switch. At this point I play the Mini more than I play my full rig just because I can play it anywhere.
Yeah, I know what you mean. I probably play it the most as well.
... the MicroCube being my 1st non-headphone practice amp ... still love it: no menus, direct control ... no complicated UI (me likes it simple) ... even had an "under the tree" 1st venue" with it ... just perfect
It is brilliant 😊
@@MrPolevaulter
So here is my answer/hint:
- take the Micro out of the 3 ... its a part of your history ... not for sale
- now decide on the 2 others
Cheers
I think it wood be great to compare yamaha thr iii with pulze. In market this is direct competitors.
Nice video thanks!!
Glad you liked it!
I have a micro cube.. the only problem I got with it is the on-off button you have to reach behind it and even though I turned it on and off a million times I'm always reaching around and fishing around to find the stupid button!
You pulled some killer tones out of all those little boxes but man, you have got to do some dusting!
🤣
Thank you for the good reviews mister Elmo. Personally, I prefer a loud amp. Nothing can beat a 100 watt-Amp for practicing
some ... Led Zeppelin "1" album :)
🤣
PLEASE HELP !!
I'm buying my first electric guitar and amp and a 7-8 years old Roland Cube 15XL is on offer for really cheap. Should i buy it or prefer something else ?
Sure. You can always sell it if you don't like it.
They all got the blues just right - I agree.
:)
I have the MK1 Yamaha THR10 (5 presets loaded, using those filters from delay and phaser settings, so I can load the presets and change everything onboard aside the delay and effects to not lose the filters), using both Clean anc Crunch channels I can have almost any sound with my pedals. BUT, using the Brit Stack with some pedals on MK1 Micro Cube sometimes I feel "better, or easier" playing through it, I really don't know, even that MAYBE the Micro Cube doesn't sound as good the MKI Yamaha THR10.
Anyway, to make the THR10 sounds "better" it was needed alot of effort and stuff to discover using his app, something that isn't needed with Roland Micro Cube.
Right now, I'm really waiting for something really "new", something like a proper 2x5.5 speakers being also a good monitor and recording setup and (or) even a 1x12 model, without modelling stuff but that makes possible to load .NAM files (as this tech is "free"), effects, IRs & FXLoop (and of course flexible signal chain like the Hotone Pulze), why not?
Sounds like an interesting amp
Great video I hate messing with apps , still going to stick with my BOSS Katana MIni , I just love it's basic functionality, and sound I'm not farting around with apps, maybe it's age when your patience levels are not as they were , 🤣
Fair enough.
If you like Kat Mini you might check out the Katana GO, it's got all the amps and fx pedals of the regular Katana combos in a headphone amp. Plus has the WAZA Stage Feel that really makes it sound in a room. You can select presets from 3 button banks on the device but yes needs phone app for fine tuning settings and which pedals you want with which amps.
HEX E100G/ STAINLESS STEEL FRETS, please review this guitar ❤
You should finally try Peavey Classic 20 MH!! You are going to be reborn after trying this Amp. You will be another Men.
I have spark mini and so far it is good but I have a problem updating the software. I need to find out the problem but it should be fine
I haven't used the software after setting and forgetting the sounds.
Hey Elmo.
How are you doing sir? Good I hope my friend.
Great video.
I really liked the Hotone. I call it. Hot Tone 😂. You made me laugh calling it ( probably correctly ) Ho Tone. 😂😂😂😂.
I liked it's tone probably the best along with the cube. I hate using an app though. I like analogue. Knobs. 😂 I'm old and contrary though. 😂.
Man, brother if you haven't got stainless frets on your strat you've not lived. I just put together a Warmoth neck with maple fretboard and neck with 22 Jumbo frets in stainless with a 10 to 16 inch radius I believe it is and it's great. Used a graphite nut and staggered tuners so I don't have to bother with a string tree and hopefully will be able to use the gotoh 6 screw vintage like them with steel saddles and steel block and not go out of tune. I used two EMG humbuckers and I absolutely love them. I don't get all the hate on EMGs. They sound great and the tone controls actually work and no noise at all and so you can really crank the gain or get a beautiful clean sound with out using a compressor, etc. Plus, no getting shocked because you're the ground like passives. Just so many advantages. I also have a pickguards with three EMG SA singles I might try because I do miss that Red House tone with single coils.
Great videos as always with you sir and I still just dig this channel.
I would love to see you do a review on the UAFX Lion which is a Plexi " amp in a box" with a 68 super lead, a bass and a brown sound . I hear that they actually sound and more importantly even feel like the real thing which is something I've yet to get when trying modern modellers. Although I've only tried the Kemper on the high end.
Anyway, sorry to babble . Meds taking effect 😂
Be well my Viking friend and be safe. God speed man ❤
Thanks! Hope you're well.
Do you think it makes sense to sell my thr10 and buy the spark? Mostly because I had it for years and I am bored of it 😊
Not sure. Personally I don't really like the THR.
That Pulze amp did the trick for me, but in that price range it is diffecult! You can buy a lot of other amps that are same but have 50 ore more watts, ore am i mistaken? Thanx for misbehaven....... 🤪
Yeah, it's a bit expensive.
Isnt there a boss katana version of the microcube?
Katana Mini? Pretty basic amps and delay only no reverb.
Katana Mini
What about the Roland cube 10 w
What about it?
Suggestions for video reviews sir:
Boss IR2.
The new Boss headphones amp. I can't remember the name.
UAFX Lion of course. ❤
Thanks brother. I know it's easy for me to suggest when I'm not buying them 😂.
Be safe my friend. ❤
Katana GO, has all the Katana amps and pedals. Also there's the new Line 6 POD Express multi fx pedal. But UAFX Lion has the best Marshall tones by far.
Thanks for the suggestions.
@@MrPolevaulter Absolutely brother. ♥️🤘
Elmo be honest and tell us the truth ..... you actually do prefer the MICRO CUBE 🙂 I know you
🤣
Tough one. I luv the sound of the Pulze, but it looks like a bloody toaster. Hey, as guitarists we wanna look cool. Right?
The Spark looks like a cigar box. Looks like I will stick with the old reliable Cube👍
It does look a bit like a toaster :D
I am going to buy an amp.
Monoprice 15 $349 spark mini $309
Yamaha trii or whatever $399
Or maybe a cube 10w $379
CAD 🇨🇦
Tough choices
Personally I'd go for anything apart from the THR.
Right on. I think the tube amp may win this one. Unless I get cheap and buy the fly 3 with extension and power for $209.
Thanks bud
Fuck it I'll just get the lt25 🐎
It is still hard to beat the simplicity of the cube, even after all these years.
True
For get the amps (well you can’t…..it’s the Cube!) …… but I think there is some serious Ai going on here in this video…… it is impossible for anyone to be that good! 😂 🤘🤘
Haha :D Thanks!
Please resist the quick link on your splash screen
Gotta love that Micro Cube tone for sure, amazingly no capacitor degradation in 100 years! Sadly, I can't use speakers where I live (seniors home), or at least not loud enough to enjoy a guitar practice. Rather use headphones where loud isn't bothering anyone, so good cab sims through headphones is my priority and it's harder to find than you'd expect. After a bunch of trial gear my Quilter Superblock UK was the only really decent Marshall tones through phones I found. I just bought the Katana GO and it has the customizable WAZA "Stage Feel" which gives a sense of an expansive space through the phones. I get really enjoyable Drive tones on the GO's Katana Clean amp from the various BOSS drive and fx pedal models they include, like in any regular Katana combo. But yes, fiddly phone app.
Need to try a Quilter.
i have a Spark mini, and now , i know, i need a spark 40
😀
You are like Elmo from Sesame St
I went with the fender champion 20. Played several small gigs with it. You might like that
As time goes by, we see more and more good products coming from Chinese brands, and that’s exciting.
It creates competition for American products, which tend to stagnate and lack innovation.
The Chinese brands seem to understand everything, engaging in a constant race to offer the best product.
I just ordered mine, and I think it will be great on its own, but I can't wait to test it connected to my JBL PartyBox Ultimate.
you should have joined Motorhead
Guitarists today suffer from peer pressure to prove they can play the guitar. Musicality is far more inspiring than speed riffs that don't have any connection to the essence of the tune. So many guitar solos from classic tunes of the 60s and 70s are actually quite simple, but they are melodic, serve the song and stick in your mind more than pyrotechnic, speed demon playing.
Im very dissapointed with the mini and the app in general. Technically works great but sound is awful. Sounds 100% artificial 😮💨😮💨😮💨 what supposed to emulate the Fender 65 is a joke. A bad taste joke
Neo classical shredding is really boring, in my opinion. Just saying.
Hello fellow guitarists! I've been playing an acoustic for years now and it's always been my big wish to buy an electric guitar. I've decided to go for Epiphone sg special but I'm not quite sure which amp would be the best decision for the long run. I like the sound that Sean Angus Watson have (you can check him out on yt) or just rnb/soul stuff even just rock in general im really into that.. So if anyone has any suggestions (for about 200€ budget) I'd be very thankful
God bless y'all
Spark Mini for me. That's just over 200€, or Harley Benton Tube 15, which is 250ish €. Maybe one of those second hand.
@@MrPolevaulter thanks