Using an amp block into the front end of a nice sounding clean amp sounds just fine. No ir no speaker emulation. Headrush output set to amp instead of line. For example I have a Fender 100 watt Super Six and I am using the stock Headrush 100 watt Plexi amp model. It sounds exactly like it should .
I agree, into a nice clean amp that will sound great. My only reserve is when you try to use that method loud, and I don't mean bedroom loud I mean fighting a loud drummer and a bass player with a real SVT in a rehearsal room loud, it will feedback un-naturally, maybe even out of control, but if you can get it to work for you then that's perfect! There are no wrong answers :)
This is EXACTLY what I was looking for! I've been thinking about picking the MX5 up for my band / worship. And I was curious how I could go DI for in ears and then an amp for stage volume. This is perfect! THANK YOU!
I have found no problem with running high-gain amp blocks, properly adjusted, into the front of tube or solid-state amps. I do not care for the clean amp blocks so I bypass the gigboard for cleans. I avoid speaker/IR blocks (but occasionally use one). i find there is tone suck with just effects blocks but in a live performance it is not very noticeable.
I haven't made a video for over year but think I should make a new one because I've started not using IRs or Cabs at all in the core sound.. I like the clean amp blocks though, the MS30 and Vox are great, but I do edge them into breakup quite a lot for live use.
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush I agree with both of you. I am using the Amps as needed(but not ccabs) , using my ears. I considers them as a black box/smart equalizer thing they do the job.
Thank you for this bit of insight!! I was ready to return my Headrush MX-5 for refund.because I couldn't get a decent sound from the unit going into the front of my VOX Cambridge 50..Wow,I am excited to get busy with this unit now..
Hiya, yes same principles apply.. oddly I just ordered a Friedman IR-X which is the same thing in a different box and I intend to use it in the fx loop of the Headrush, I might turn off the IR in the Friedman and use one in the Headrush so I can put time based effects between the amp and IR.. you could also get sneaky and put the Headrush in the fx loop of the IR2, just use fx in the Headrush.. or go stir crazy and run a parallel path in the Headrush and have a Headrush amp on one side and the IR2 on the other.. just don't double up on anything on the same oath, so an IR in the IR2 and an IR in the Headrush will probably sound bad at volume..
Hi! I own an MX5, what should I do if my amp doesn't have an FX send? I have a Katana Mk2 50w and it only has a power amp in jack. Im totally new to my MX5 jack and all these funny connections so I appreaciate any help, thanks!
I have the MX5 on the way and I have Jet City JCA22H I see you have the 100 🤘 glad I found this channel. My question is you run the guitar into the input of the MX5 and then other cable into FX loop input of the amp and return back into return of the MX5 Is that right ? I will have it this coming week Also some point I would like to do the 4 cable method with the JCA22 H Jet City and I have a PRS MT-15 kinda of the same set up it has FX input And Return as well . Thanks for the input it’s late And I will watch the Video more tomorrow thanks so much
Hi there, Jet City amps are a hidden gem aren't they :) the best thing about the 100HDM is the tone controls still work when you go into the FX return. The only cable need is from the MX5 FX send to the amps FX input, no return. You are bypassing the real amps pre amp section which is where the tone comes from and are using the emulated amp in the mx5 to add the tone, the real amp is just being used as a power amp to drive a speaker. That way you can flip for example from Fender to Marshall in the MX5. If you use the 4cm you will always be using the jet city pre amp and none of the amps in the MX5. It will sound great but you're only using the FX in the MX5, not the amp modelling, as you're already using a real amp.
Love the channel man, question for you: Is the guitar amp on stage there to compete solely with a live drum kit and bass amp? The scenario I have is we run a 5 piece all straight into the mixer and then through the PA (me with a headrush.) No live kit or bass amp, everything through the mains/IEMs. In that situation, since everything can be mixed individually, would the guitar amp be used more as a monitor for myself, and how loud would it be ran, compared to the PA? In another one of your videos you mentioned that the PA has too wide of a freq to get the crunchy guitar, but wouldn't you be able to EQ to that problem within the Headrush? Sorry for all the questions, I really appreciate what you're doing with this channel 😁
Hi there, I play in a very loud 70s style power trio, the drummer is stupid loud and the bass player is a typical ampeg svt into 8x10 kind of guy.. consequently I have to be loud on stage, we found that using FRFRs no matter how we EQd them it was to harsh a sound, valve amps as you turn them up naturally compress the sound had have a pleasing to the ear distortion, FRFRs being flat, just get louder, so the sound you like at low volume may not be the sound you like at high volume, as it hasn't compressed more, so my solution has been to mutate the two systems into a workable method for me. In your case I wouldn't even have an amp, I'd go straight from the Headrush to the in ear monitoring system, we've been recording recently and to get separation the bass player and I have gone direct into the monitoring system leaving the drums clean in the room, we use the Behringer monitoring gear that lets each of us set it own headphone mix, I don't think one mix would suit all. If you really want some stage sound on such a quiet stage the FRFRs would work great for you.
IM having the opposite problem, my head rush amp sims sound too trebley and like garbage without a real amp. Plugging it into just even the clean amp gives it headroom and balls. The thing is I bought it so I dont have to lug a 100w w me everywhere. I NEED HELP
Wow, these videos are great. These boards are just so complicated for a noob like me, so thanks for stuff Like this. It’s like you need to do a 6month course just to get ya head around it. I used line at a gif last night just straight thru the PA, and it was pretty meh if I’m honest. Definitely gonna try these types of set ups
Cheers Nick, I could never get on with playing through PA speakers or FRFR cabs, so I always have a real amp to monitor through now. The trick is to make your patches at real world volume, so borrow a PA speaker or FRFR set it up alongside your guitar amp, get the guitar amp sounding good with no IR in the chain, then adjust the IR so the sound coming out of the FRFR or PA speaker sounds like a mic'd up version of the guitar amp that you'd be happy to have coming out of the front of house, you have to do this loud though.
If I set the master knob on the headrush to 11, my Marshall amp volume knob would need to be turned to just a hair above 0. And if my dog accidentally brushes by it, it would blow my house down. Or am I missing something?
Hi, thanks for sharing the info. Currently I have an acoustic combo (guitar and amp). Im bringing a new electric guitar to home, and I know the ac amp cannot pick all frecuencies of electric guitars. If i connect the electrical guitar to the headrush, then I connect left headrush output to the return of the acoustic amp, according to what you mention in you video, then the amp will amplify everything, including all the Fx of the headrush, right?. I would ptefer pedals rather than buying a new electrical amp. Second question. A drummer and looper, where it would go? Between the headrush and the amp? Also using send and return? I also have an extra port in the amp for line in/mic/instrument Appreciate your feedback
Hi There, Sorry, TH-cam didn't tell me I had a post to answer, so better late than never.. Yes, going into the FX return of your amp should work. As for a looper and a Drum Machine, I'd plug the drum machine into the 2nd port on the amp to get it out of the way of the instruments. The looper, yes I'd put it in the Headrush FX loop that way you can choose what gets looped.. just guitar, or guitar and FX or guitar and some FX if you put it in the middle of the chain..
I have the MX5 and have it connected from the send outputjack to the return of the amp. I also use an fX loop as you do. When I remove the ir or built in cab, I find the distortion to be way to fuzzy and unrealistic compared to with the ir or cabs. Do you know why that could be and perhaps some ways of fixing it? Thank you
I'm currently wrestling with this problem - have so far been juggling inputs/outputs with varying success. If you've stumbled onto some wisdom since posting this, I would be grateful to hear it 🙏
Interesting!. Question, why use the Alt out (FX send) instead of the Main Mono output into the FX return, or front end preamp, of the amp? Is there an impedance issue with Main output (Mono)? Sorry to bother, I am new the HR and your channel. Btw, your channel is brilliant...thanks
Hi Charles, I guess I didn't state the point well enough! :) The point of coming out of the FX loop is that you are exiting the Headrush before the signal gets to the IR, because if it gets to the IR you are putting an emulated microphone and speaker into a guitar amplifier which has a speaker attached, so you're amplifying a speaker with a speaker.. you just want the amp tone from the Headrush going to the power amp and speaker on stage which equals the effect of using one classic amp, whilst having the ability to switch heads on the fly like I did going from Plexi to Vox. .. the IR is last in the chain, that goes to the PA and is emulating the power amp and speaker for the PA man.
On the gigboard/mx5 does the signal still pass through the fx loop block to the IR even if you don’t have an fx return? I would think that you wouldn’t get any output from the main output with sending the signal to the amp from the FX send.
@@mayne222 Yes, the signal still comes out of the main outs, you need to use the mix control on the FX block depending what you're doing, but it works perfectly. No return needed.
Run your high gain amp blocks into the front of a fender tone master twin....then run the same high gain amp blocks into a FR headrush 800 w.You will be surprised which sounds better...even the clean blocks
Hello, great video/s thank you so much. So a little about my setup, I currently have the Headrush Pedal Board, and 2 FRFR Headrush 108's and for the life of me the last 3 years owning this setup, I cannot stand the muddy, bassy sounds of the unit, I now know pretty sure its the FRFR 108's.... The FRFR 108's are great for vocals and E-Kit through a mixer, they they work great..... So I decided to look back into regular guitar amps.... I believe I am going to go for the PRS MT-15 Amp (which I here is killer loud for a 15w and very metal and great clean sound, I just haven't chosen the cab yet, if I'm getting 4x12 or 2x12..... Anyways if I just wanted basically stomp pedals I can do with your first method in this video correct? This would save me a lot of money and I can have a ton of effects, my other question is (since I don't have other amps to base off of) I'm assuming the Headrush Pedal Board is great to use like the way I wanting to use or the way you demonstrate in this video?...… as far as the 2nd part of the video, I cannot see me using that, unless I only wanted to utilize different amp/cab sounds, correct or if I'm running live in a small club?? Sorry for all the basic questions but since your already a Headrush Pedal owner I'm sure you have a ton of experience dealing with FRFR and non-FRFR.... because every video I see on the Headrush Pedal board everyone's sounds are amazing except my muddy, bassy less then life sound, its frustrating trying to play, and constant tweaking almost always... I miss the 80's/90's when it was easier and better sounding lol.... Thank you so much for any info and your videos and rigs as well, so much help... Edit: another question, when I see the 4 cable method, many people say they like that method because they put the wet sounds (aka as reverb, delay, chorus, etc.) after the amp/preamp and all the distortions and overdrives, noise gates, wah, volume, before the amp/preamp, like your method 1...… my question is, is it that much of a different compared to just having everything run before the amp (your method 1) .... ?? does it make it sound better, what's the pros/cons??
I've never bothered with the 4 cable method, it seems like hard work :) The best results I get are by taking the signal after the headrush amp and before the IR/Cab, sending that to a power amp and 4x12, it feels like an old school setup that way. I currently either use a Soldano SLO100 or a Blackstar Amped1 as the power amp, the soldano sounds better, the amped1 is easier to carry.. :)
@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush thank you brother for your input... what cabinet would you go after for metal/hard rock/ with a nice clean tone? Thanks for the 2 options, I think for now I would have to settle with the Amped1 because of the nice price, lol
@@FPVMgunit13 Look at Jet City HDM 100's they are designed by Soldano and sound great! Much cheaper too.. I like Celestian Vintage 30's, I have 2 cabs, one with four G12H's, and one with two V30's and two Creambacks.. There's not a huge amount of difference, can't go wrong with V30's though!
I just got my headrush prime today. I am going into a black star Toby Lee 6L6 50 watt head with 2x12 cab. It has 3 channels one spanky clean,the next is similar to Marshall plexi and the third channel adds over the top thump and distortion. My question is what channel do I feed the head rush into and at what volume level when I’m setting it up? I intend to go through the send and return of the amp head and into a 2x12 cab. They are really lightweight and I don’t mind carrying them at all. I want the ability to switch heads and effects but I don’t know where to start volume wise and what channel.
The question is do you want to use the 3 channels of your amp? or use the Headrush for all the preamp changes? If you want to use your amp look up "4 cable method" in the manual. If you're using the Headrush amps plug into the FX return, and take a send either from an FX block in your rig, or use the alternate output, I would do this.. look in global settings, set the alternate output source to IR in, set its output to headphones.. (You now have a volume control on the main panel.. the headphone vol control) now plug the headphone out into the FX return of your amp.. this will take the signal just before the IR and send it to your amp.. the signa will then carry on through the IR to the main outs for the front of house DI. To do this you must have the IR last in your chain.
The CyberTwin has a stereo FX return, just plug the Headrush onto that and take the feed before any IR using the alternate output (Pedalboard) or FX Block (Gigboard MX5) as shown in the video.
Plug guitar into headrush input? And mono out into amp input? Is that what you're saying? Because it seems kinda like you're saying into mono out of headrush?? I'm confused help me please... Thanks man... I'll keep watching
im a newbie to the HR pedalboard. I was curious if i build a rig for the strat and lock the input, then save that rig, and then make adjustments to that rig for the humbucker guitar, and save it as another rig, will the inputs be the same on both rigs? I am making rigs for three diff type guitars (Strat w/singles, gretsch with one type of doubles, and another with a lp and humbuckers) if the inputs would need to be adjusted on each rig and not be locked?
Hi Robbie, Once you've locked the inputs the input is the same on every rig, so yes change the rig for another guitar and save it as a another name and the input will be the same, balance them volume wise with the output block, that block saves with each rig.
Hi , I saw on another video a trs splitter cable? If I wanted to just use the mx5 as a pedalboard could I run cables to the front of 2 amps for a stereo set up? Thanks in anticipation.
i only have an mx5, a combo app and various cables. i want to use my combo app only as a speaker since i don't have any frfr or any cabs. want to use amp and cab from my mx5. how should be my chain and settings then? i'm trying to connect from amp's line in but bass sounds buzzing even on low volume. thanks!
If you put the FX loop block do you have to change the Mix level so it still passes the signal through to IR block? Normally wouldn't the signal be send out fx send of Headrush and since it's not returning , it would just be no sound going to IR block/FOH?
If you plug the headrush into the front of your amp and use the effects only, can you use the actual amp volume for control? Or because you’re using the headrush it takes that out of play?
You can use the amp volume, just use the headrush like a normal effects pedalboard. I'd turn the amp up though and put a volume block in my chain so I control the volume with the treadle.
You can do it if you set your amp as clean as it will go, but everything will be coloured by your amp and speaker, so if you DI into a PA at the same time that sound will be totally different. Modellers are designed to replace amps.
But was settings should I have on my amp while following this method of turning off amp and speaker on the board ? Where should be master, gain, channel on the amp ? Could you reply please ?
@@serhiiderkach8126 If you have the amp and cab off in the board then the real amp settings should be where you think it sounds best.. do you want it clean? Dirty? Edge of breakup? If you're only using the Headrush for FX then the amp is for you to choose.. If you want to use the amps/cabs in the Headrush then the amp should be as flat as possible.
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush Thank you for your reply! I do want to use headrush for effects such as delay and distortion etc... But won't the actual amp still distort the sound of the headrush delay for example ?
I don't think so, unless you use an FX block to send to your amp, then you could use the FX block send level control, The main benefit of the pedalboard is that it's blessed with more outs than the MX5/Gigboard.
FX loop trick doesn't work for me. I connect MX5 FX send to an FX return on my amp. The amp is getting the signal just fine. However, there is nothing reaching my IRs block and MX5 output. That actually seems logical as there is nothing feeding FX return on my MX5. Why does it work for you though? Am I missing some global settings?
So is there a way to do this, but also still be able to then say "actually I do wanna use the pre-amp for my acutal amp", disable the amp sims and send effects to the front of the amp and into the fx loop using the Gigboard?
I have an MX5. So, I REALLY don't need to go out and buy a Headrush FRFR, Line 6 Powercab, or Fender FR-12. I'm happy with the sounds of my Blackstar HT40 and HT60
@@IamTheScottD Same here, I still lug a 4x12 and tube amp around so I can plug my Headrush into the FX return and make some noise.. I had FRFR speakers and they brought me no joy.
@@IamTheScottD I had cancer a while back and the surgery left me unable to lift anything heavy (I'm ok now, no worries) but to keep the band going the rest of them said they'd carry all the gear.. I'm contemplating getting a 2nd 4x12.. ;)
Not crazy at all, there are no rules! .. that being said, in a live scenario where you might be playing with a loud drummer and you want to turn it up you might find it starts to be unmanageable, non musical feedback, squeaks etc.. but at low volume or for recording, no problem at all.
I was up at about 85db, I cut some low end and it sounded better than without the IR. The amp I was using is a very sterile sounding solid state.@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush I run to the FX return of my 6505mh after few minutes of playing suddenly my mx5 hang up I rebooted and still no response, did I do wrong on the setup?
Yes, (Sorry for the late reply!) You need to look up the 4 cable method, (It's one for the few things actually in the manual) which does exactly what you want.
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush many thanks! Exactly the one I'm using now, but there are a lot of controversial information across the internet, event MX5 manual is stating that TRS cable should be used, but without any specific details. And that is weird because amp's input is unbalanced.
Hello asking about the MX5. When I use the fx loop block into the return of the amp do I have to make any changes through the global or block settings?
You can't as nothing is amplifying the signal from the Headrush. You either need a powered monitor (FRFR) or an amp with an FX return, or go straight into the front of the amp as shown at the beginning of the video.
@@xyloftalexander4369 Double the modelled power amp? Yes it will but until Headrush let us separate the pre and power amps what can you do..? Same problem on the Quad Cortex, you can bypass the power amp on the Fractal, but who wants to deal with that operating system ;) (joke!)
@@xyloftalexander4369 If you want to get adventurous you can mimic an amp with a drive and an EQ.. listen to the amps without an IR, they're horrible sounding things..
Then you can't use the amp modelling part of the Headrush because you already have an amp in the chain. But all the effects are still in play, just plug into the front of your combo and use it like a regular effects board. Do you like the sound of your combo?
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush Thanks! The combo amp is OK. It's a Marshall, but I love the sound of Fenders in youtube videos. Oddly enough, I didn't like my Fender Champion 40 which I started out on, so I sold it. Do you think it is presentable for Fender sound? Question now is also if I should sell the Marshall and buy a speaker for the headrush. Or maybe an amp that has FX loop. But then I'll be doubling up on the speaker/cabinet right?
@@gratengelsker7614 I like the Fenders in the Headrush, you have 2 choices really, 1) FRFR speaker, this replicates the Headrush 100%, but you do lose some "amp in the room" feel, mainly because it's replicating an amp into a speaker through a microphone.. and there's not usually a microphone between you and your amp.. or 2) get an amp with an FX return, use the heads in the Headrush, but no IR, because you're using the power stage and speaker of the real amp.. you get the amp in the room feel back, but you're still carrying an amp :)
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush Yes, it is probably convenient to own an amp! Do I miss out on something by not using my Headrush IR? I am a little confused on the terms: IR, Power amp, speaker, cabinet.
Using an amp block into the front end of a nice sounding clean amp sounds just fine. No ir no speaker emulation. Headrush output set to amp instead of line. For example I have a Fender 100 watt Super Six and I am using the stock Headrush 100 watt Plexi amp model. It sounds exactly like it should .
I agree, into a nice clean amp that will sound great.
My only reserve is when you try to use that method loud, and I don't mean bedroom loud I mean fighting a loud drummer and a bass player with a real SVT in a rehearsal room loud, it will feedback un-naturally, maybe even out of control, but if you can get it to work for you then that's perfect! There are no wrong answers :)
This is EXACTLY what I was looking for! I've been thinking about picking the MX5 up for my band / worship. And I was curious how I could go DI for in ears and then an amp for stage volume. This is perfect! THANK YOU!
I'm happy to help :)
I have found no problem with running high-gain amp blocks, properly adjusted, into the front of tube or solid-state amps. I do not care for the clean amp blocks so I bypass the gigboard for cleans. I avoid speaker/IR blocks (but occasionally use one). i find there is tone suck with just effects blocks but in a live performance it is not very noticeable.
I haven't made a video for over year but think I should make a new one because I've started not using IRs or Cabs at all in the core sound.. I like the clean amp blocks though, the MS30 and Vox are great, but I do edge them into breakup quite a lot for live use.
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush I agree with both of you. I am using the Amps as needed(but not ccabs) , using my ears. I considers them as a black box/smart equalizer thing they do the job.
good info! I run my Prime into a Blackstar Amped 1 on the Flat channel.
Ha! My Amped1 arrives tomorrow.. I'm fed up carrying around a huge tube amp to amplify the box I got to replace the huge tube amp :)
Was thinking of getting a tonex one and running this into it so this is intriguing
Thank you for this bit of insight!! I was ready to return my Headrush MX-5 for refund.because I couldn't get a decent sound from the unit going into the front of my VOX Cambridge 50..Wow,I am excited to get busy with this unit now..
I hope it works out for you! :)
Great processor, and great amp🎉
Thank you for your fx-loop trick with the IR, that's gonna save me from headaches with my headrush gigboard!
Hi, is it the same principle with a Boss IR2? And can use the IR2 as an Amp/Cab Block in the MX5? THX
Hiya, yes same principles apply.. oddly I just ordered a Friedman IR-X which is the same thing in a different box and I intend to use it in the fx loop of the Headrush, I might turn off the IR in the Friedman and use one in the Headrush so I can put time based effects between the amp and IR.. you could also get sneaky and put the Headrush in the fx loop of the IR2, just use fx in the Headrush.. or go stir crazy and run a parallel path in the Headrush and have a Headrush amp on one side and the IR2 on the other.. just don't double up on anything on the same oath, so an IR in the IR2 and an IR in the Headrush will probably sound bad at volume..
This video helps a lot thank you
Thank you
Excellent!!! A great way to optimize both 💪😉
Thanks Amish, appreciate it. :)
Hi! I own an MX5, what should I do if my amp doesn't have an FX send? I have a Katana Mk2 50w and it only has a power amp in jack. Im totally new to my MX5 jack and all these funny connections so I appreaciate any help, thanks!
You're all set.. send the FX send from the MX5 to the Power Amp in Jack. Then use the Amps in the MX5 and the power amp and speaker in the Katana
I have the MX5 on the way and I have Jet City JCA22H I see you have the 100 🤘 glad I found this channel. My question is you run the guitar into the input of the MX5 and then other cable into FX loop input of the amp and return back into return of the MX5 Is that right ? I will have it this coming week
Also some point I would like to do the 4 cable method with the JCA22 H Jet City and I have a PRS MT-15 kinda of the same set up it has FX input And Return as well . Thanks for the input it’s late
And I will watch the Video more tomorrow
thanks so much
Hi there, Jet City amps are a hidden gem aren't they :) the best thing about the 100HDM is the tone controls still work when you go into the FX return.
The only cable need is from the MX5 FX send to the amps FX input, no return. You are bypassing the real amps pre amp section which is where the tone comes from and are using the emulated amp in the mx5 to add the tone, the real amp is just being used as a power amp to drive a speaker. That way you can flip for example from Fender to Marshall in the MX5. If you use the 4cm you will always be using the jet city pre amp and none of the amps in the MX5. It will sound great but you're only using the FX in the MX5, not the amp modelling, as you're already using a real amp.
very helpful video, just what I was looking for, thank you!
Thanks, glad to be of help.
Love the channel man, question for you: Is the guitar amp on stage there to compete solely with a live drum kit and bass amp? The scenario I have is we run a 5 piece all straight into the mixer and then through the PA (me with a headrush.) No live kit or bass amp, everything through the mains/IEMs. In that situation, since everything can be mixed individually, would the guitar amp be used more as a monitor for myself, and how loud would it be ran, compared to the PA? In another one of your videos you mentioned that the PA has too wide of a freq to get the crunchy guitar, but wouldn't you be able to EQ to that problem within the Headrush? Sorry for all the questions, I really appreciate what you're doing with this channel 😁
Hi there, I play in a very loud 70s style power trio, the drummer is stupid loud and the bass player is a typical ampeg svt into 8x10 kind of guy.. consequently I have to be loud on stage, we found that using FRFRs no matter how we EQd them it was to harsh a sound, valve amps as you turn them up naturally compress the sound had have a pleasing to the ear distortion, FRFRs being flat, just get louder, so the sound you like at low volume may not be the sound you like at high volume, as it hasn't compressed more, so my solution has been to mutate the two systems into a workable method for me.
In your case I wouldn't even have an amp, I'd go straight from the Headrush to the in ear monitoring system, we've been recording recently and to get separation the bass player and I have gone direct into the monitoring system leaving the drums clean in the room, we use the Behringer monitoring gear that lets each of us set it own headphone mix, I don't think one mix would suit all. If you really want some stage sound on such a quiet stage the FRFRs would work great for you.
Well done!
I have an mx5. Disabling the IR an Cab sim and plugging the guitar out to the fx return of the amp would have fhe same effect right?
Yes it would, this assumes you don't also want to send a feed with an IR to the front of house, but yes you are correct.
Well done, thank you!
Thanks Wayne.. I spent today thinking of things I should have included but didn't..
IM having the opposite problem, my head rush amp sims sound too trebley and like garbage without a real amp. Plugging it into just even the clean amp gives it headroom and balls. The thing is I bought it so I dont have to lug a 100w w me everywhere. I NEED HELP
Need more info.. because "Too Trebley" is not a trait of the Headrush :) What cabs are you using in your rigs? or are you using IRs?
Wow, these videos are great. These boards are just so complicated for a noob like me, so thanks for stuff
Like this. It’s like you need to do a 6month course just to get ya head around it. I used line at a gif last night just straight thru the PA, and it was pretty meh if I’m honest. Definitely gonna try these types of set ups
Cheers Nick, I could never get on with playing through PA speakers or FRFR cabs, so I always have a real amp to monitor through now. The trick is to make your patches at real world volume, so borrow a PA speaker or FRFR set it up alongside your guitar amp, get the guitar amp sounding good with no IR in the chain, then adjust the IR so the sound coming out of the FRFR or PA speaker sounds like a mic'd up version of the guitar amp that you'd be happy to have coming out of the front of house, you have to do this loud though.
Thanks mate, yeah I have a FRFR12, and a randall series 2 RG200SC head and 4x12 cab, so I’ll definitely try and give it a go
If I set the master knob on the headrush to 11, my Marshall amp volume knob would need to be turned to just a hair above 0. And if my dog accidentally brushes by it, it would blow my house down. Or am I missing something?
This is correct! :)
But the best position for the main volume knob on the Headrush is about 7.
Hi, thanks for sharing the info. Currently I have an acoustic combo (guitar and amp). Im bringing a new electric guitar to home, and I know the ac amp cannot pick all frecuencies of electric guitars. If i connect the electrical guitar to the headrush, then I connect left headrush output to the return of the acoustic amp, according to what you mention in you video, then the amp will amplify everything, including all the Fx of the headrush, right?. I would ptefer pedals rather than buying a new electrical amp.
Second question. A drummer and looper, where it would go? Between the headrush and the amp? Also using send and return?
I also have an extra port in the amp for line in/mic/instrument
Appreciate your feedback
Hi There, Sorry, TH-cam didn't tell me I had a post to answer, so better late than never.. Yes, going into the FX return of your amp should work.
As for a looper and a Drum Machine, I'd plug the drum machine into the 2nd port on the amp to get it out of the way of the instruments. The looper, yes I'd put it in the Headrush FX loop that way you can choose what gets looped.. just guitar, or guitar and FX or guitar and some FX if you put it in the middle of the chain..
I have the MX5 and have it connected from the send outputjack to the return of the amp. I also use an fX loop as you do. When I remove the ir or built in cab, I find the distortion to be way to fuzzy and unrealistic compared to with the ir or cabs. Do you know why that could be and perhaps some ways of fixing it? Thank you
I'm currently wrestling with this problem - have so far been juggling inputs/outputs with varying success.
If you've stumbled onto some wisdom since posting this, I would be grateful to hear it 🙏
Interesting!. Question, why use the Alt out (FX send) instead of the Main Mono output into the FX return, or front end preamp, of the amp? Is there an impedance issue with Main output (Mono)? Sorry to bother, I am new the HR and your channel. Btw, your channel is brilliant...thanks
Hi Charles, I guess I didn't state the point well enough! :) The point of coming out of the FX loop is that you are exiting the Headrush before the signal gets to the IR, because if it gets to the IR you are putting an emulated microphone and speaker into a guitar amplifier which has a speaker attached, so you're amplifying a speaker with a speaker.. you just want the amp tone from the Headrush going to the power amp and speaker on stage which equals the effect of using one classic amp, whilst having the ability to switch heads on the fly like I did going from Plexi to Vox. .. the IR is last in the chain, that goes to the PA and is emulating the power amp and speaker for the PA man.
On the gigboard/mx5 does the signal still pass through the fx loop block to the IR even if you don’t have an fx return? I would think that you wouldn’t get any output from the main output with sending the signal to the amp from the FX send.
@@mayne222 Yes, the signal still comes out of the main outs, you need to use the mix control on the FX block depending what you're doing, but it works perfectly. No return needed.
Run your high gain amp blocks into the front of a fender tone master twin....then run the same high gain amp blocks into a FR headrush 800 w.You will be surprised which sounds better...even the clean blocks
Hello, great video/s thank you so much. So a little about my setup, I currently have the Headrush Pedal Board, and 2 FRFR Headrush 108's and for the life of me the last 3 years owning this setup, I cannot stand the muddy, bassy sounds of the unit, I now know pretty sure its the FRFR 108's.... The FRFR 108's are great for vocals and E-Kit through a mixer, they they work great..... So I decided to look back into regular guitar amps.... I believe I am going to go for the PRS MT-15 Amp (which I here is killer loud for a 15w and very metal and great clean sound, I just haven't chosen the cab yet, if I'm getting 4x12 or 2x12..... Anyways if I just wanted basically stomp pedals I can do with your first method in this video correct? This would save me a lot of money and I can have a ton of effects, my other question is (since I don't have other amps to base off of) I'm assuming the Headrush Pedal Board is great to use like the way I wanting to use or the way you demonstrate in this video?...… as far as the 2nd part of the video, I cannot see me using that, unless I only wanted to utilize different amp/cab sounds, correct or if I'm running live in a small club?? Sorry for all the basic questions but since your already a Headrush Pedal owner I'm sure you have a ton of experience dealing with FRFR and non-FRFR.... because every video I see on the Headrush Pedal board everyone's sounds are amazing except my muddy, bassy less then life sound, its frustrating trying to play, and constant tweaking almost always... I miss the 80's/90's when it was easier and better sounding lol.... Thank you so much for any info and your videos and rigs as well, so much help...
Edit: another question, when I see the 4 cable method, many people say they like that method because they put the wet sounds (aka as reverb, delay, chorus, etc.) after the amp/preamp and all the distortions and overdrives, noise gates, wah, volume, before the amp/preamp, like your method 1...… my question is, is it that much of a different compared to just having everything run before the amp (your method 1) .... ?? does it make it sound better, what's the pros/cons??
I've never bothered with the 4 cable method, it seems like hard work :) The best results I get are by taking the signal after the headrush amp and before the IR/Cab, sending that to a power amp and 4x12, it feels like an old school setup that way. I currently either use a Soldano SLO100 or a Blackstar Amped1 as the power amp, the soldano sounds better, the amped1 is easier to carry.. :)
@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush thank you brother for your input... what cabinet would you go after for metal/hard rock/ with a nice clean tone? Thanks for the 2 options, I think for now I would have to settle with the Amped1 because of the nice price, lol
@@FPVMgunit13 Look at Jet City HDM 100's they are designed by Soldano and sound great! Much cheaper too..
I like Celestian Vintage 30's, I have 2 cabs, one with four G12H's, and one with two V30's and two Creambacks.. There's not a huge amount of difference, can't go wrong with V30's though!
@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush thanks brother... love your insight... I definitely will...ty
Thank you sooooooooooo much😢!!! I was about to get rid of my prime because of my ignorance about this settings, lol
Happy to help! The Headrush is a beast once you understand it. :)
same here and I just het the product two days ago 😅
thnx for tip ! very helpful
I just got my headrush prime today. I am going into a black star Toby Lee 6L6 50 watt head with 2x12 cab. It has 3 channels one spanky clean,the next is similar to Marshall plexi and the third channel adds over the top thump and distortion. My question is what channel do I feed the head rush into and at what volume level when I’m setting it up? I intend to go through the send and return of the amp head and into a 2x12 cab. They are really lightweight and I don’t mind carrying them at all. I want the ability to switch heads and effects but I don’t know where to start volume wise and what channel.
The question is do you want to use the 3 channels of your amp? or use the Headrush for all the preamp changes?
If you want to use your amp look up "4 cable method" in the manual.
If you're using the Headrush amps plug into the FX return, and take a send either from an FX block in your rig, or use the alternate output, I would do this.. look in global settings, set the alternate output source to IR in, set its output to headphones.. (You now have a volume control on the main panel.. the headphone vol control) now plug the headphone out into the FX return of your amp.. this will take the signal just before the IR and send it to your amp.. the signa will then carry on through the IR to the main outs for the front of house DI. To do this you must have the IR last in your chain.
No stereo send return???? No midi out message on User manual??
I got a boss katana mk 2 100 and I got a power amp in of my amp would I be able to use the amps
Yes, plug the main out of the Headrush into the Katana power amp in, don't use an IR or cab block in the Headrush, should sound great!
Thanks for the advice
Will it work the same way with modelling amp? I know idea may sound pontless
Thanks
Hi, i have a peavey invective mh that I'm trying to pair a headrush mx5 with, but I'm having troubles using it as an FX loop.
Not sure I understand it correctly for connecting it to my Fender CyberTwin SE. I'm not very familiar with the amp.
The CyberTwin has a stereo FX return, just plug the Headrush onto that and take the feed before any IR using the alternate output (Pedalboard) or FX Block (Gigboard MX5) as shown in the video.
Plug guitar into headrush input? And mono out into amp input? Is that what you're saying? Because it seems kinda like you're saying into mono out of headrush?? I'm confused help me please...
Thanks man... I'll keep watching
Guitar into headrush input, out of Alternate output (Pedalboard/Prime) or FX Send (Gigboard MX5) into Amps FX Return (NOT the main amp input)
im a newbie to the HR pedalboard. I was curious if i build a rig for the strat and lock the input, then save that rig, and then make adjustments to that rig for the humbucker guitar, and save it as another rig, will the inputs be the same on both rigs? I am making rigs for three diff type guitars (Strat w/singles, gretsch with one type of doubles, and another with a lp and humbuckers) if the inputs would need to be adjusted on each rig and not be locked?
Hi Robbie, Once you've locked the inputs the input is the same on every rig, so yes change the rig for another guitar and save it as a another name and the input will be the same, balance them volume wise with the output block, that block saves with each rig.
Hi , I saw on another video a trs splitter cable? If I wanted to just use the mx5 as a pedalboard could I run cables to the front of 2 amps for a stereo set up? Thanks in anticipation.
Yes, the FX send is stereo, sorry for the late reply. :)
i only have an mx5, a combo app and various cables. i want to use my combo app only as a speaker since i don't have any frfr or any cabs. want to use amp and cab from my mx5. how should be my chain and settings then? i'm trying to connect from amp's line in but bass sounds buzzing even on low volume. thanks!
If you put the FX loop block do you have to change the Mix level so it still passes the signal through to IR block? Normally wouldn't the signal be send out fx send of Headrush and since it's not returning , it would just be no sound going to IR block/FOH?
@@AtTheSourceStudios yes you have to use the mix control to send the signal out, but it doesn't look for a return, so it works like a Y splitter.
How u plug into a normal mixer. I put a hotone mp100n threw mixer sounds terrible. But great threw the valve amp. Should i get therush
Your problem sounds like you don't have an IR in the chain going into the mixer, if you do.. choose another one!
If you plug the headrush into the front of your amp and use the effects only, can you use the actual amp volume for control? Or because you’re using the headrush it takes that out of play?
You can use the amp volume, just use the headrush like a normal effects pedalboard.
I'd turn the amp up though and put a volume block in my chain so I control the volume with the treadle.
I guess I am out of luck getting any amp or cabinet modeling out of a Blues Junior combo amp without an FX send or return ?
You can do it if you set your amp as clean as it will go, but everything will be coloured by your amp and speaker, so if you DI into a PA at the same time that sound will be totally different.
Modellers are designed to replace amps.
But was settings should I have on my amp while following this method of turning off amp and speaker on the board ? Where should be master, gain, channel on the amp ? Could you reply please ?
@@serhiiderkach8126 If you have the amp and cab off in the board then the real amp settings should be where you think it sounds best.. do you want it clean? Dirty? Edge of breakup? If you're only using the Headrush for FX then the amp is for you to choose..
If you want to use the amps/cabs in the Headrush then the amp should be as flat as possible.
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush Thank you for your reply!
I do want to use headrush for effects such as delay and distortion etc... But won't the actual amp still distort the sound of the headrush delay for example ?
@@serhiiderkach8126 Yes, but so would a modelled amp.. I spent 30 years putting delay into the front of a Marshall Plexi, sounded great :)
Hi there , great videos keep up the good work. Any chance of a Peter frampton show me the way sound ?? Please!!
I'll have a go.. excepting the throat speaker tube thing though surely!?!
Your wish is my command, Frampton rig uploaded today.. th-cam.com/video/2EKQC3cPbvY/w-d-xo.html
Is there a way to control the stage volume of your amp with the MX5 without changing PA volume, as you did with the Pedalboard?
I don't think so, unless you use an FX block to send to your amp, then you could use the FX block send level control, The main benefit of the pedalboard is that it's blessed with more outs than the MX5/Gigboard.
FX loop trick doesn't work for me. I connect MX5 FX send to an FX return on my amp. The amp is getting the signal just fine. However, there is nothing reaching my IRs block and MX5 output. That actually seems logical as there is nothing feeding FX return on my MX5. Why does it work for you though? Am I missing some global settings?
There's a mix control on the FX block, try it the opposite to how you have it..
So is there a way to do this, but also still be able to then say "actually I do wanna use the pre-amp for my acutal amp", disable the amp sims and send effects to the front of the amp and into the fx loop using the Gigboard?
I think what you're describing is the 4 cable method, it's shown in the manual.
I have an MX5. So, I REALLY don't need to go out and buy a Headrush FRFR, Line 6 Powercab, or Fender FR-12. I'm happy with the sounds of my Blackstar HT40 and HT60
@@IamTheScottD Same here, I still lug a 4x12 and tube amp around so I can plug my Headrush into the FX return and make some noise.. I had FRFR speakers and they brought me no joy.
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush Just saying "4x12" makes my back hurt! LOL
@@IamTheScottD I had cancer a while back and the surgery left me unable to lift anything heavy (I'm ok now, no worries) but to keep the band going the rest of them said they'd carry all the gear.. I'm contemplating getting a 2nd 4x12.. ;)
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush Well I'm glad to hear you're ok!! Oh, definitely go for the 2nd 4x12!! LOL
Thank u. I think it's the hotone maybe I upgrade again thk
what happens if it actually sounds good with the IR? or am I crazy?
Not crazy at all, there are no rules! .. that being said, in a live scenario where you might be playing with a loud drummer and you want to turn it up you might find it starts to be unmanageable, non musical feedback, squeaks etc.. but at low volume or for recording, no problem at all.
I was up at about 85db, I cut some low end and it sounded better than without the IR. The amp I was using is a very sterile sounding solid state.@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush
It's all good, the IR is at the end of the day a tone shaping device, if you like the tone, you're winning :)
Ouch been searching for this because my mx5 coming nextweek, I thought mx5 can run to the fx loop of the (real) amp.
I run into the FX return, this video covers both methods.
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush I run to the FX return of my 6505mh after few minutes of playing suddenly my mx5 hang up I rebooted and still no response, did I do wrong on the setup?
If you’re just using as a pedalboard, can you run certain pedals though the effects loop and others to the front?
Yes, (Sorry for the late reply!) You need to look up the 4 cable method, (It's one for the few things actually in the manual) which does exactly what you want.
If my guitar combo amp doesn't have fx loop and I use its frontend input what type of cable should I use, speaker or instrument? Thanks!
Instrument cable.
Speaker cables should only ever be used after a real amp into a real speaker, any other situation calls for an instrument cable.
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush many thanks! Exactly the one I'm using now, but there are a lot of controversial information across the internet, event MX5 manual is stating that TRS cable should be used, but without any specific details. And that is weird because amp's input is unbalanced.
Hello asking about the MX5. When I use the fx loop block into the return of the amp do I have to make any changes through the global or block settings?
Nothing to the globals, just adjust the FX block to taste, I send 100% of the signal to the amp fx return.
I'm trying to use amp models with my gigboard into an amp. When I plug into the fx return, it sounds perfect but I can't control the volume.
What's the amp?
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush I have an Orange OR15 and one of the little Terror Stomps. It happens with both.
@@SoulPuppy3132 I can't find any info on how the FX return works in that amp, I have an Orange CR120 and that works perfectly.
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush Bummer
how do i get it go through my cab only not through a amp head through a cab
You can't as nothing is amplifying the signal from the Headrush. You either need a powered monitor (FRFR) or an amp with an FX return, or go straight into the front of the amp as shown at the beginning of the video.
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush I sold it
Won’t this double the power amp?
@@xyloftalexander4369 Double the modelled power amp? Yes it will but until Headrush let us separate the pre and power amps what can you do..? Same problem on the Quad Cortex, you can bypass the power amp on the Fractal, but who wants to deal with that operating system ;) (joke!)
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush I was hoping you knew some sort of black magic, thanks for the time bud
@@xyloftalexander4369 If you want to get adventurous you can mimic an amp with a drive and an EQ.. listen to the amps without an IR, they're horrible sounding things..
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush Yeah i've been messing around with gain staging drive pedals. I am super new at it, will let you know how it goes.
What about my combo amp that doesnt have fx input?
Then you can't use the amp modelling part of the Headrush because you already have an amp in the chain. But all the effects are still in play, just plug into the front of your combo and use it like a regular effects board.
Do you like the sound of your combo?
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush Thanks! The combo amp is OK. It's a Marshall, but I love the sound of Fenders in youtube videos. Oddly enough, I didn't like my Fender Champion 40 which I started out on, so I sold it. Do you think it is presentable for Fender sound? Question now is also if I should sell the Marshall and buy a speaker for the headrush. Or maybe an amp that has FX loop. But then I'll be doubling up on the speaker/cabinet right?
@@gratengelsker7614 I like the Fenders in the Headrush, you have 2 choices really, 1) FRFR speaker, this replicates the Headrush 100%, but you do lose some "amp in the room" feel, mainly because it's replicating an amp into a speaker through a microphone.. and there's not usually a microphone between you and your amp.. or 2) get an amp with an FX return, use the heads in the Headrush, but no IR, because you're using the power stage and speaker of the real amp.. you get the amp in the room feel back, but you're still carrying an amp :)
@@MuckingAboutWithMyHeadrush Yes, it is probably convenient to own an amp! Do I miss out on something by not using my Headrush IR? I am a little confused on the terms: IR, Power amp, speaker, cabinet.
@@gratengelsker7614 Watch my video "What's an IR" it explains all.. :)