You have showed us the top 5 units worth buying. And that is the true value! Thank you! For solutions, I use BOSS ME 90 fx board running into NANO CORTEX! Very affordable Amp plus fx /footswitches. The line 6 fx only board is my secondary option. After watching your comparison videos I have to say each brand offers quality amp tones plus FX etc..... It is a win win for guitarists, and the choice boil down to personal taste , price and application.
My setup: - Ampero control for midi control over everything - Line6 HX Effects to a real amp loop (If any) - Tonex pedal into an HX Effects loop as an amp block - Electro Harmonix Dual expression pedal (2 outputs for controlling both HX Effects and Tonex, very convenient pedal) - Walrus Stereo Canvas from HX Stereo Output
We need to wait for the Ampero II captures, if they are good than my solution would be a single Ampero II. Today I'm using the Ampero II Stomp, a soul press 2 and a Gladio overdrive pedal
Just described my actual rig! I use a couple VOX ValveEnergy (Mystic Edge and Silk Drive) as analog preamps + MS-3 and Opus (mainly because power-amp sim feature, that is the real thing that I see as a "tone secret" in many ampless solution)
My current setup is this: - HX Stomp for effects - Tonex One (Heavy gain amp / clean amp) - Ampero control (midi controller) - Ampero Expression Pedal - Ampero Double Switch This all fits in a rather small pedalboard. Tonex One is connected in the FX loop of the HX Stomp. Ampero pedal and double switch are connected to the ampero control, and the ampero control goes to the MIDI In of the HX Stomp. So far this has been a really great setup for me. I only wish there was some kind of hack to control the Tonex One using MIDI over USB.
You’re in luck, because someone made an android app that does that exact thing! I don’t remember the TH-cam channel name, but search for “controlling ToneX One with your feet” or something like it. It’s a little convoluted but it works
Thanks for the video! My solution: HX Stomp + Tonex One + MIDI controller. I need 4 types of sounds: heavy rhythm, heavy lead, ambient clean with the option to simulate an acoustic guitar, and very-compressed crunch. Each sound type should have 3 snapshots for varying effect proportions in the final tone, with presets changed via the MIDI controller. From Tonex One, I only need heavy amp profiles because I like them 🙂
Great video Leo. Was thinking about these as a replacement for my all-in-one modeler. I still think I'll stick with my all-in-one. I'm also guessing that Line 6 will come out with something incredible sooner or later as an upgrade from the Helix and the HX line of stuff all the way to the POD Go. God bless and rock on 👍😎🎸
I use the kemper with line 6 fbv and a hotone dual switch. There is an expression pedal with switch on it. So 5 switches plus xp pedal plus two switches.
That's why the Ampero 2 with capture is such a great offering, if the captures are good. You'd get the XLR out, sterero FX, and either all the buttons you need (stage) or the wah pedal (ampero 2). I wish they would get their latency down a bit. 6ms is where I start feeling disconnected from the instrument. I find the Ampero to be the easiest modeler in general to get good tones. Maybe because they model the drive/fx pedals with minimal controls and good defaults
Currently trying out a ToneX (overdrive included in capture) -> Boss GE-7 (for on the fly edits) -> DD-500 -> Rocktron Velocity 300 -> Harley Benton 2x12. I want to add the Eventide Tricerachorus but will wait for the ToneX update to see if that scratches the chorus itch.
I am so on board with a small well pedalboard. @Leon you should consider the MIDI controller from Luminite FX, they are well built, better at price than Morningstar (which are still great) and have a great small touchscreen unit to control them. If it should get into the more low price segment, I am using an M-Vave Chocolate together with a Moog Expression Pedal and a wireless MIDI adapter on my HX stomp. Keep up the great work.
Amazing video, Leo! Grazie! I didn't get why we needed the big Midi with the Kemper player. In any case, I agree it's the most powerfull and flexible. I'm sure nano cortex will release updates to compete in the future, though.
Hi, thank you for sharing! You need it because the Kemper accept only MIDI via USB C....Maybe there are other devices that can do it....but this is the one I know...thanks!
Luminite fx makes affordable and really nice looking midi controllers. Graviton M2 for instance is 235,95€ and has a touch screen and all the bells and whistles one would need with a midi controller.
midi captain by paint audio is cheaper than the morning star my pick is tonex + mvave chocolate for 4 patch switching midi via TRS, add to that a bank up and down footswitcher. Also, Tonex + Zoom G1four (is stereo and is midi controllable) + Midi Captain
But the poly ample doesn’t load NAM models - just has its curated profiles. Boost in the poly ample is really just more gain unlike loading an overdrive into NAM with a separate amp.
Hi @Leo, Thanks a lot for this comparison and for the quality of your work, it is the best out there. One suggestion, is there a chance to review the cheapest capture player in the market which is M-wave Tank G ? There IS a software to create ANN profiles and seems also possible to convert NAM captures to ANN. This product is very popular in Asia and south America. Thanks
Amazing video, thank you Leo! I've discovered your channel recently and must say that it's an invaluable source of super useful information. I've got some questions after watching this comparison: 1) How do you find Kemper modulation/delay/reverb effects? In your opinion, can they compete on equal with a CE-2, Strymons and so on? 2) Is it a necessity to use a Canvas DI box, or maybe there are any cheaper alternatives? Or there is no sense in buying cheaper one? 3) Can we do without DI box if the cable length does not exceed 6 meters (e.g. on rehearsal)?
Than you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the videos!!! 1) in my opinion Kemper effects are really nice, among my favourite with Boss and Fractal...but of course this is just a matter of taste 2) Honestly I don't know....the Canvas is stereo and it is the only one I have tested...maybe there are other alternatives...but I don't know (I'm sorry) 3) yes, we can...even if 6m is already a pretty long cable...I think some degradation with 6m has to be expected. Thank you!
@@LeoGibsonGtr Thank you for the feedback, really appreciate it! Right now I'm deciding between buying a used kemper stage vs new tonex + some my pedals, and your feedback and the video were very useful, thanks again!
Leo you should ask IK Multimedia to give you a beta so that you can review it. Would love to get your take on the new November update for Tonex and Tonex One
Thank you so much! I'm a bit reluctant in reaching out to them....I mean I think they know me...and if they want, they can send me units or sw to tests....if they don't...maybe they have they reasons....
@@LeoGibsonGtr Well I totally understand. Worse than can say is no but I’ve seen way smaller channels already reviewing the update. Changing the topic, one solution for not needing an OD pedal with the NC and the Tonex is that if we use the full capability of unit and having amps and pedals is that we can capture amps and od pedals so that we don’t need an OD slot. That’s how I’m going to be using my Tonex fly rig. All I need is my Tonex, MC3, and expression pedal. Because my presets will have a clean, crunch, and lead capture of my Morgan AC.
Here’s my amp less setup 1. ToneX $350 2. Behringer FCB1010 $120 3.Used TC Plethora X5 $350 4. Behringer wah $99 5. ToneX One $175 6. Boss LS-2 AB Mixer pedal $110 Grand total=$1,224 About $475 cheaper than a full Quad Cortex and a bit more flexible. But, if you include the audio interfaces (UAD Apollo X Twin $1,500 and Scarlet 18i8 $450) for the whole signal chain, I should have gotten an AxEffects 3 and saved some cash!!
You could probably drop the MC6 Pro to the MC6 MK2 or MC3 while adding a USB MIDI adapter. At the price of an ES-5, I'd personally opt for an HX Stomp or HX Stomp XL (used) and you'd be able to drop external OD pedals. I'm personally building around ToneX/ToneX ONE and HX Stomp. Snapshots take care of so much.
As I'm a metal guitarist and I think my FM3 is too big to carry around, and I don't need more than 3 buttons, the kemper (level 3) seems like the best solution... one small pedal
I have NAM Player, so I want to add Eventide H90 + Hotone Soulpress 2. I don't need switcher because it's easy to use just the two pedals (NAM Player + H90). To make it cheaper, I would use Plethora X5, instead of the H90.
Hi Leo, thanks for your effort. Which Morningstar is it? It looks like MC6 Pro which is currently at 320€. You can get a cheaper solution with Graviton M2 at 240€ or Paintaudio midi captian at 170€ (both working with the Kemper Player).
Very nice comparision! I have been thinking about combining the Tonex Pedal or the NAM Player with a line6 hx one or hx effects. But doing 3 times analog->digital->analog probaly brings too much latency. Therefore an all in one solution like the Kemper is more attractive. Or even other kinds of devices like HX Stomp, FM3, Mod Dwarf, Quad Cortex. Have you ever tried the HX Stomp? It also has the benefit of Helix Native on PC, which is really intriguing. Also, have you heard about BluGuitar AmpX? That could potentially be an amazing solution! Check it out!
Tonex Pedal > HX Effects is what I have on my board at the moment. There will be latency of course but it’s definitely not enough to be noticeable for me. Same result with Tonex > Plethora X3 but I preferred the extra options with the HXFX. Add a few overdrives before it for variety and it’s a great setup
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video! Thank you also for sharing your configurations and opinion! Yes, I have heard about the AmpX....I was in contact with them...but actually they didn't answer anymore to my email....maybe in the future!
@@IvIarkf same setup for me, I sometimes notice the latency but overall good!. I hope the latency of the tonex will be improved as well with the new update.
@@LeoGibsonGtr Well, I hope they get back to you sometime. I highly regard your expertise on these guitar devices and also find the technology fascinating. Keep rocking, thanks for doing what you do :)
Hi Leo I have a new iPad Pro, but even it can't manage to scroll down the right-hand window ("description" header) I guess there are too many links. I'm trying to get to the timestamps of your sections, but can't.
Interesting video, in that case the price is going to be similar to the bigger brothers The ampero midi controller really seems pretty similar to the M-Wave chocolate , not sure about the software. The way the M-wave wireless midi controller is really really cheap , I think around 50 By the way I would prefer a cheap pedalboard/modeler with send /return loop, enough switches, really good effects, volume/wha pedal onboard and midi to be paired to one of those smaller units , I guess it will be cheaper and probably everyone already has one If the pedalboard hasn't XLR then the output can be routed to 2 cheap DI boxes In my case because 8 don't need to switch many amps live as I said before GX-100 +toned one was a total of £500. Just in case someone needs to switch sounds a full Tonex and I guess the other devices can be controlled via midi by the pedalboard to switch amp preset
Hi, the balanced out allows you to run long cables without signal degradation. So it depends...if you run cables until 2m long...I don't think you need it...otherwise you may experience some noise or signal degradation. Of course you can still avoid using these boxes...they are not mandatory.
ToneX One can be controlled by MIDI via USB using an Android phone and an app called "MIDI Chief". That would bring the cost even lower for the Tonex solution.
@@LeoGibsonGtr The other nice thing about using the MIDI Chief app with the ToneX one is you can access all 20 presets on the ToneX one with it. You're not restricted to the A/B or Stomp presets anymore.
Kemper Player + Strobostomp Mini. It realistically is all you need for metal imo. If you use morphing in a smart way the 3 (5 with combo switches) you have plenty of options
At these prices it would be better to buy a Kemper Stage (=1490 euros) or a Quad Cortex (= 1599 euros) with an expression pedal in the 80-100 euros like the one you have and you have an all-in-one system with more capabilities and less cost.
Hi, thank you for your suggestion! I wanted to keep this video limited to small profilers....otherwise the choice would have been huge...(for instance BOSS GT 1000 core, or Ampero Stomp.....). Thanks!
I have the exact same setup, but then i downloaded the beta firmware for ampero stage and captured my tonex captures with it. Yes there’s a slight difference but if you capture legit amp+cab/hq outboard gear/hq mics, i think it’ll be indifferent enough to carry an extra pedal. I am excited for Leo’s upcoming video like i used to get excited for a Tyson match😂
Why not just use the stereo delay/reverb combo pedals from a brand like Joyo, TC Electronic, Flamma, or Zoom, for the NAM Player?? Also, there are cheap wireless and wired midi controllers from brands like XSonic and TC Electronic for like $100 USD.
Thank you for your suggestion. Of course you can use whatever delay and chorus you want and I put a 300 buck option in the video, but here I wanted also to show you something special...analog stereo delay and chorus...which are rare and latency free. Thanks!
If Line 6 would update products like the HX Stomp so it could load NAM Amp Profiles as Dynamic IRs, everything becomes much less expensive, smaller, and more useful in my opinion. HX Stomp $650 NAM Software $0 Control Pedal $60-130 MIDI Switcher $?
@@LeoGibsonGtr You are always so nice. Thank You for reading the comments and replying to them. You are a true gem on YT. I gladly witness the growth of Your channel. You deserve over 1M subs \m/
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the channel!!! of course I really hope the channel will continue to grow....let's keep our fingers crossed!!!
Don’t see this obsession with stereo output. Rather use pedals so you can add in or out on the fly. No need for switching boxes. Just a little bit of tap dancing no problem. I do enjoy your videos Leo, even if most of the products featured are option paralysis boy toys.
Thank you for sharing! Of course each of us has his priorities and preferences ... and that's the beauty of gear and music....and life more in general.
I Haver a Brasilian loop pedal which, can recive qnd Control the analog and MID pedal inthe same time! Thi is a Pedrone Penta 4 D, its able to five presets and Moreira than 10 banks, its só amazing and lesa espencive If que compare which the in this video pedal controls
And this is exactly why I prefer an all in one solution, like the HX STOMP, or Quad Cortex, Ampero II...I'm done with all of this nonesense, patch cables, big power supplies, cases, IN/OUT boxes...all summed costs same or more than a quad cortex. Not to mention the extra weight, the size, the touble shooting...i'm done... Why would these companies see value in limiting their products, when these days the thech is there and it's clear the demand is for flexible all in one units. why limit the thing? I don't understand...to make it less expensive! That is complete BS...Look, this video says it all, these extras required to make these units work live is the same price as a cortex...and it's always a mess of cables and setup with midi...fuck that shit, buy an HX stomp or a cortex...improves your quality of live, small lightweight, lets you do everything and even record while traveling...not going back to all of this mess again. LINE6 give us and HX STOMP with captures and xlr OUT for professional use
Il chitarrista insoddisfatto può usare qualsiasi cosa ma non sarà mai contento. Per il chitarrista bravo bastano poche cose per fare grande musica. George Benson ha fatto la storia con chitarra ed ampli..... a transistor... 😮😮
You have showed us the top 5 units worth buying. And that is the true value! Thank you! For solutions, I use BOSS ME 90 fx board running into NANO CORTEX! Very affordable Amp plus fx /footswitches. The line 6 fx only board is my secondary option.
After watching your comparison videos I have to say each brand offers quality amp tones plus FX etc..... It is a win win for guitarists, and the choice boil down to personal taste , price and application.
Thank you so much for sharing and I'm happy that you watched the video....and to have been of some help!!!
THanks!!!
My setup:
- Ampero control for midi control over everything
- Line6 HX Effects to a real amp loop (If any)
- Tonex pedal into an HX Effects loop as an amp block
- Electro Harmonix Dual expression pedal (2 outputs for controlling both HX Effects and Tonex, very convenient pedal)
- Walrus Stereo Canvas from HX Stereo Output
Thank you so much for sharing your setup!
best youtube channel
Thank you so much for such an amazing compliment that really makes me happy!
Awesome video, as always, man.
Cheers!!!
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!
We need to wait for the Ampero II captures, if they are good than my solution would be a single Ampero II. Today I'm using the Ampero II Stomp, a soul press 2 and a Gladio overdrive pedal
I'm currently working on a video comparison with the performance of the Ampero tone capture and the other units...so stay tuned!!!!
@@LeoGibsonGtr Is it promising sir? I am already satisfied with my stage ii but always wanted capture function like tonex's
I will upload the video this weekend....stay tuned!!!
Thanks!
@@LeoGibsonGtr You are the best!
The Boss MS3 covers a lot of ground and adding a two notes opus is a huge game changer.
Just described my actual rig!
I use a couple VOX ValveEnergy (Mystic Edge and Silk Drive) as analog preamps + MS-3 and Opus (mainly because power-amp sim feature, that is the real thing that I see as a "tone secret" in many ampless solution)
@@iloveitall the MS3 has an editor
I think at these prices you could instead get a single unit like the QC, or without captures, the FM3/FM9/Helix
Thank you for sharing!
This is for sure a consideration that should be done
My current setup is this:
- HX Stomp for effects
- Tonex One (Heavy gain amp / clean amp)
- Ampero control (midi controller)
- Ampero Expression Pedal
- Ampero Double Switch
This all fits in a rather small pedalboard.
Tonex One is connected in the FX loop of the HX Stomp.
Ampero pedal and double switch are connected to the ampero control, and the ampero control goes to the MIDI In of the HX Stomp.
So far this has been a really great setup for me. I only wish there was some kind of hack to control the Tonex One using MIDI over USB.
I was thinking about this solution too :)
You’re in luck, because someone made an android app that does that exact thing! I don’t remember the TH-cam channel name, but search for “controlling ToneX One with your feet” or something like it.
It’s a little convoluted but it works
Thank you for sharing your setup!
Thanks for the video! My solution: HX Stomp + Tonex One + MIDI controller. I need 4 types of sounds: heavy rhythm, heavy lead, ambient clean with the option to simulate an acoustic guitar, and very-compressed crunch. Each sound type should have 3 snapshots for varying effect proportions in the final tone, with presets changed via the MIDI controller. From Tonex One, I only need heavy amp profiles because I like them 🙂
You are welcome and thank you so much for sharing your configuration!!
Great video Leo, as usual!
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you like the video!
Boss SD-1
+ Tonex One,
+ Sonicake 10 band EQ (sounds HUGE)
+ Harley Benton GPA-100
+ Harley Benton 2x12 V30
=> Done!
(670€)
Pedalboard? Yes. DIY from acacia wood, beautiful for living rooms. (30€+10€ velcro)
Thank you for sharing your configuration!!
@@LeoGibsonGtr Thanks for your tips. You're welcome.
Great video Leo. Was thinking about these as a replacement for my all-in-one modeler. I still think I'll stick with my all-in-one. I'm also guessing that Line 6 will come out with something incredible sooner or later as an upgrade from the Helix and the HX line of stuff all the way to the POD Go. God bless and rock on 👍😎🎸
Thank you so much!!!
Yes, I also hope in a some sort of upgrade from Line 6....it would add some incremental spice to the market!!!
Very interesting. The thing for me is kind of a hybrid solution: I use my tube preamps together with a Two Notes solution.
Yes, that's another very good option, thank you for sharing!
I use the kemper with line 6 fbv and a hotone dual switch. There is an expression pedal with switch on it. So 5 switches plus xp pedal plus two switches.
Thank you for sharing!
That's why the Ampero 2 with capture is such a great offering, if the captures are good. You'd get the XLR out, sterero FX, and either all the buttons you need (stage) or the wah pedal (ampero 2). I wish they would get their latency down a bit. 6ms is where I start feeling disconnected from the instrument.
I find the Ampero to be the easiest modeler in general to get good tones. Maybe because they model the drive/fx pedals with minimal controls and good defaults
Thank you for sharing!
Of course Ampero is an interesting solution
i'm exciting to see a fractal VP4+Kemper profile player(lvl0).
Thanks Leo.
You are welcome!
Thank you for sharing!
Thanks so much for this vid Leo
You are welcome!!!
Thank you Leo! My used gt1000 pedal board does everything and more and sounds as good as any of these setups, for $700 or less,total
Thank yo for sharing!
Would it be possible to use an economic DI for Tonex instead of the two very expensive solutions you show in your video for the balanced output?
Yes, of course. This is the solutions I know and that I have tested myself...but there could be other solutions in the market.
Thank you!
Currently trying out a ToneX (overdrive included in capture) -> Boss GE-7 (for on the fly edits) -> DD-500 -> Rocktron Velocity 300 -> Harley Benton 2x12. I want to add the Eventide Tricerachorus but will wait for the ToneX update to see if that scratches the chorus itch.
Thank you so much for sharing your setup!
An option (especially for the Kemper) in terms of midi pedal would be the Paint Audio Midi Captain. Does a lot for not a lot of money
Thank you for your suggestion!
I am so on board with a small well pedalboard. @Leon you should consider the MIDI controller from Luminite FX, they are well built, better at price than Morningstar (which are still great) and have a great small touchscreen unit to control them. If it should get into the more low price segment, I am using an M-Vave Chocolate together with a Moog Expression Pedal and a wireless MIDI adapter on my HX stomp. Keep up the great work.
Thank you so much for sharing!!! I have to check out that Luminite....the name is very nice...😀
Great Video!
Thank you so much, I’m really happy that you like the video!!!
Very interesting video. I would guess many already have parts of the gear so that might affect the ideal solution.
Thank you sooo much!!!
Yes, you are right!
Amazing video, Leo! Grazie!
I didn't get why we needed the big Midi with the Kemper player. In any case, I agree it's the most powerfull and flexible. I'm sure nano cortex will release updates to compete in the future, though.
Hi, thank you for sharing!
You need it because the Kemper accept only MIDI via USB C....Maybe there are other devices that can do it....but this is the one I know...thanks!
@@LeoGibsonGtr got it. Thank you!
You are welcome!
Luminite fx makes affordable and really nice looking midi controllers. Graviton M2 for instance is 235,95€ and has a touch screen and all the bells and whistles one would need with a midi controller.
Thank you so much for sharing these devices that I didn't know.
Just to be sure, can they manage MIDI over UBS-C?
Thank you!!
midi captain by paint audio is cheaper than the morning star
my pick is tonex + mvave chocolate for 4 patch switching midi via TRS, add to that a bank up and down footswitcher.
Also, Tonex + Zoom G1four (is stereo and is midi controllable) + Midi Captain
would also like to add the mod dwarf to that list.. as it can capture, train ai, has convolution reverbs, etc
Poly Ample vs Dimehead NAM Player pedal will be very interesting since Poly Ample uses NAM for it's capture models.
Yes, I do agree....I hope that Poly will send me a unit to demo....
But the poly ample doesn’t load NAM models - just has its curated profiles. Boost in the poly ample is really just more gain unlike loading an overdrive into NAM with a separate amp.
Hi @Leo,
Thanks a lot for this comparison and for the quality of your work, it is the best out there.
One suggestion, is there a chance to review the cheapest capture player in the market which is M-wave Tank G ?
There IS a software to create ANN profiles and seems also possible to convert NAM captures to ANN. This product is very popular in Asia and south America.
Thanks
You are welcome and I'm really happy that you appreciate the videos!!!
I have to check them out....sooner or later....
Many thanks ! 🙏
You are welcome!!!
Amazing video, thank you Leo! I've discovered your channel recently and must say that it's an invaluable source of super useful information.
I've got some questions after watching this comparison:
1) How do you find Kemper modulation/delay/reverb effects? In your opinion, can they compete on equal with a CE-2, Strymons and so on?
2) Is it a necessity to use a Canvas DI box, or maybe there are any cheaper alternatives? Or there is no sense in buying cheaper one?
3) Can we do without DI box if the cable length does not exceed 6 meters (e.g. on rehearsal)?
Than you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the videos!!!
1) in my opinion Kemper effects are really nice, among my favourite with Boss and Fractal...but of course this is just a matter of taste
2) Honestly I don't know....the Canvas is stereo and it is the only one I have tested...maybe there are other alternatives...but I don't know (I'm sorry)
3) yes, we can...even if 6m is already a pretty long cable...I think some degradation with 6m has to be expected.
Thank you!
@@LeoGibsonGtr Thank you for the feedback, really appreciate it! Right now I'm deciding between buying a used kemper stage vs new tonex + some my pedals, and your feedback and the video were very useful, thanks again!
You are welcome and I'm happy to have been of some help!!!
Leo you should ask IK Multimedia to give you a beta so that you can review it. Would love to get your take on the new November update for Tonex and Tonex One
Thank you so much!
I'm a bit reluctant in reaching out to them....I mean I think they know me...and if they want, they can send me units or sw to tests....if they don't...maybe they have they reasons....
@@LeoGibsonGtr Well I totally understand. Worse than can say is no but I’ve seen way smaller channels already reviewing the update.
Changing the topic, one solution for not needing an OD pedal with the NC and the Tonex is that if we use the full capability of unit and having amps and pedals is that we can capture amps and od pedals so that we don’t need an OD slot. That’s how I’m going to be using my Tonex fly rig. All I need is my Tonex, MC3, and expression pedal. Because my presets will have a clean, crunch, and lead capture of my Morgan AC.
Here’s my amp less setup
1. ToneX $350
2. Behringer FCB1010 $120
3.Used TC Plethora X5 $350
4. Behringer wah $99
5. ToneX One $175
6. Boss LS-2 AB Mixer pedal $110
Grand total=$1,224
About $475 cheaper than a full Quad Cortex and a bit more flexible. But, if you include the audio interfaces (UAD Apollo X Twin $1,500 and Scarlet 18i8 $450) for the whole signal chain, I should have gotten an AxEffects 3 and saved some cash!!
Thank you for sharing....good point about the audio interface....
You could probably drop the MC6 Pro to the MC6 MK2 or MC3 while adding a USB MIDI adapter. At the price of an ES-5, I'd personally opt for an HX Stomp or HX Stomp XL (used) and you'd be able to drop external OD pedals.
I'm personally building around ToneX/ToneX ONE and HX Stomp. Snapshots take care of so much.
Thank you for sharing your opinion and your experience!
As I'm a metal guitarist and I think my FM3 is too big to carry around, and I don't need more than 3 buttons, the kemper (level 3) seems like the best solution... one small pedal
Thank you so much for sharing!
I have NAM Player, so I want to add Eventide H90 + Hotone Soulpress 2. I don't need switcher because it's easy to use just the two pedals (NAM Player + H90). To make it cheaper, I would use Plethora X5, instead of the H90.
Thank you so much for sharing your setup!
Hi Leo, thanks for your effort. Which Morningstar is it? It looks like MC6 Pro which is currently at 320€. You can get a cheaper solution with Graviton M2 at 240€ or Paintaudio midi captian at 170€ (both working with the Kemper Player).
Hi, thank you!
Yes, it's an MC6 PRO...I found it in Italy at 420....The price 320, I guess, is without taxes, duties, etc.
Very nice comparision! I have been thinking about combining the Tonex Pedal or the NAM Player with a line6 hx one or hx effects. But doing 3 times analog->digital->analog probaly brings too much latency.
Therefore an all in one solution like the Kemper is more attractive. Or even other kinds of devices like HX Stomp, FM3, Mod Dwarf, Quad Cortex. Have you ever tried the HX Stomp? It also has the benefit of Helix Native on PC, which is really intriguing.
Also, have you heard about BluGuitar AmpX? That could potentially be an amazing solution! Check it out!
Tonex Pedal > HX Effects is what I have on my board at the moment. There will be latency of course but it’s definitely not enough to be noticeable for me. Same result with Tonex > Plethora X3 but I preferred the extra options with the HXFX.
Add a few overdrives before it for variety and it’s a great setup
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!
Thank you also for sharing your configurations and opinion!
Yes, I have heard about the AmpX....I was in contact with them...but actually they didn't answer anymore to my email....maybe in the future!
@@IvIarkf same setup for me, I sometimes notice the latency but overall good!. I hope the latency of the tonex will be improved as well with the new update.
@@LeoGibsonGtr Well, I hope they get back to you sometime. I highly regard your expertise on these guitar devices and also find the technology fascinating.
Keep rocking, thanks for doing what you do :)
Thank you so much!!!
Hey Leo - the Kemper Player can use the M-Vave chocolate or the Midi Captain (which has two-way comms). Both much cheaper.
Or the Ampero Control! (th-cam.com/video/ztDCLKoeqQg/w-d-xo.html)
Hi, thank you for sharing!!!
Both these devices can send midi messages over USB C?
Thanks!
Hi, the Ampero control cannot send midi over usb c...it need an host device, like an iPad
Chocolate can send multiple CCs and PCs or combined, also standalone over USB. It uses either a computer or mobile app.
@@LeoGibsonGtr just the spec says 'Supports standard MIDI, USB MIDI and Bluetooth MIDI input/output/thru'
I rarely see the two notes opus in these comparisons.
Hi, please check out the M-Vave Mk300/Blackbox/Tank-G pedals, they can load profile like the Tonex.
Thank you for sharing!
You promised me once in Facebook to make a comparison about nano cortex and quad cortex .
Thank you for pointing it out....I have to find the time....but I need a second life to make all these videos...
Hi Leo
I have a new iPad Pro, but even it can't manage to scroll down the right-hand window ("description" header) I guess there are too many links. I'm trying to get to the timestamps of your sections, but can't.
Hi, I'm sorry for that....I will check out the links...
Interesting video, in that case the price is going to be similar to the bigger brothers
The ampero midi controller really seems pretty similar to the M-Wave chocolate , not sure about the software.
The way the M-wave wireless midi controller is really really cheap , I think around 50
By the way I would prefer a cheap pedalboard/modeler with send /return loop, enough switches, really good effects, volume/wha pedal onboard and midi to be paired to one of those smaller units , I guess it will be cheaper and probably everyone already has one
If the pedalboard hasn't XLR then the output can be routed to 2 cheap DI boxes
In my case because 8 don't need to switch many amps live as I said before GX-100 +toned one was a total of £500.
Just in case someone needs to switch sounds a full Tonex and I guess the other devices can be controlled via midi by the pedalboard to switch amp preset
Thank you so much for sharing your findings and I'm happy that you find the video interesting!
Great video. What about tonex and boss ms3?
Yes, it is nice set up....I think you wound still need a MIDI to USB controller, to change amps in the ToneX
@@LeoGibsonGtr Thanks. It is a midi controller and can control the tonex.
Hi Leo, how much do you loose if you use the ToneX just with the unbalanced out? thankyou
Hi, the balanced out allows you to run long cables without signal degradation. So it depends...if you run cables until 2m long...I don't think you need it...otherwise you may experience some noise or signal degradation. Of course you can still avoid using these boxes...they are not mandatory.
@@LeoGibsonGtr Thankyou so much Leo. I am from Australia and I love to watch all of your fantastic videos. I appreciate all you do for us. Your
You are welcome and I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!
I think that the Kemper setup wins here.. in terms of flexibility, size and effects.
Thank you for sharing!
ToneX One can be controlled by MIDI via USB using an Android phone and an app called "MIDI Chief". That would bring the cost even lower for the Tonex solution.
Thank you for sharing!
I guess you would have problem in controlling the phone with foot switches....but maybe there is a way...
@@LeoGibsonGtr The other nice thing about using the MIDI Chief app with the ToneX one is you can access all 20 presets on the ToneX one with it. You're not restricted to the A/B or Stomp presets anymore.
Kemper Player + Strobostomp Mini. It realistically is all you need for metal imo. If you use morphing in a smart way the 3 (5 with combo switches) you have plenty of options
Thank you so much for sharing!
how about multiple tonex ones?
Yes, it could be an option. You still would need some solution to control them and latency sum up.
At these prices it would be better to buy a Kemper Stage (=1490 euros) or a Quad Cortex (= 1599 euros) with an expression pedal in the 80-100 euros like the one you have and you have an all-in-one system with more capabilities and less cost.
Thank you for sharing!
For sure this is a consideration to be done before buying.
Thanks!
Or you can buy a used camper for less than 900 euros.
Of course, thank!
No MOD Dwarf? (Which has the NAM player included…) 🤔
Good point!
Great!!!
Thank you so much!!!
No Line 6 HX Stomp love?
Hi, thank you for your suggestion! I wanted to keep this video limited to small profilers....otherwise the choice would have been huge...(for instance BOSS GT 1000 core, or Ampero Stomp.....).
Thanks!
In digital amp sim world i prefer all in one solution.
Thank you for sharing!
I use the Tonex for Amp within the FX Loop of the Ampero 2 stage. Maybe will add the ampero Pedal.
This is a dream combination. 🤘🏻😎
I have the exact same setup, but then i downloaded the beta firmware for ampero stage and captured my tonex captures with it. Yes there’s a slight difference but if you capture legit amp+cab/hq outboard gear/hq mics, i think it’ll be indifferent enough to carry an extra pedal. I am excited for Leo’s upcoming video like i used to get excited for a Tyson match😂
Thank you for sharing!
I'm working on the video about the Ampero profiling procedure and how it null test vs other profilers....I can't wait to share the results!!!
@@LeoGibsonGtr I am looking forward to seeing it. Also your review of the new Ampero II when it will be available.
@@321hp Nice! I didnt tried to capture the Tonex, but i will give it a try! 🤘🏻🤩
Why not just use the stereo delay/reverb combo pedals from a brand like Joyo, TC Electronic, Flamma, or Zoom, for the NAM Player?? Also, there are cheap wireless and wired midi controllers from brands like XSonic and TC Electronic for like $100 USD.
Thank you for your suggestion.
Of course you can use whatever delay and chorus you want and I put a 300 buck option in the video, but here I wanted also to show you something special...analog stereo delay and chorus...which are rare and latency free.
Thanks!
If Line 6 would update products like the HX Stomp so it could load NAM Amp Profiles as Dynamic IRs, everything becomes much less expensive, smaller, and more useful in my opinion.
HX Stomp $650
NAM Software $0
Control Pedal $60-130
MIDI Switcher $?
Yes, Line 6 with NAM profiles would be great!
Tonex pedal, Boss GX100, Palmer PAN 04 DI box, Harley Benton SpaceShip 60XL pedalboard = 1070€
Thank you for sharing your configuration!!!
HX Stomp XL with exp pedal eat all of them xD
Thank you for sharing!
@@LeoGibsonGtr You are always so nice. Thank You for reading the comments and replying to them. You are a true gem on YT. I gladly witness the growth of Your channel. You deserve over 1M subs \m/
Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the channel!!! of course I really hope the channel will continue to grow....let's keep our fingers crossed!!!
WE TRUST İN LEO !
😀 thank you so much!! ❤️❤️❤️
Don’t see this obsession with stereo output.
Rather use pedals so you can add in or out on the fly.
No need for switching boxes. Just a little bit of tap dancing no problem.
I do enjoy your videos Leo, even if most of the products featured are option paralysis boy toys.
Thank you for sharing!
Of course each of us has his priorities and preferences ... and that's the beauty of gear and music....and life more in general.
Kemper stage instead of player + lvl 2/3 + morning star
Thank you for your suggestion!
First ❤
Thank you!
Who win
I don't think there is a clear winner, it depends from your needs
Thank you!
I Haver a Brasilian loop pedal which, can recive qnd Control the analog and MID pedal inthe same time! Thi is a Pedrone Penta 4 D, its able to five presets and Moreira than 10 banks, its só amazing and lesa espencive If que compare which the in this video pedal controls
Thank you so much for sharing!
Hx stomp xl solving all these problems for $700.00 and very low latency. And in the mix, no one can tell which modelers/capture device you are playing
Thank you for sharing
And this is exactly why I prefer an all in one solution, like the HX STOMP, or Quad Cortex, Ampero II...I'm done with all of this nonesense, patch cables, big power supplies, cases, IN/OUT boxes...all summed costs same or more than a quad cortex. Not to mention the extra weight, the size, the touble shooting...i'm done...
Why would these companies see value in limiting their products, when these days the thech is there and it's clear the demand is for flexible all in one units. why limit the thing? I don't understand...to make it less expensive! That is complete BS...Look, this video says it all, these extras required to make these units work live is the same price as a cortex...and it's always a mess of cables and setup with midi...fuck that shit, buy an HX stomp or a cortex...improves your quality of live, small lightweight, lets you do everything and even record while traveling...not going back to all of this mess again. LINE6 give us and HX STOMP with captures and xlr OUT for professional use
Thank you for sharing!
For sure and HX with profiles...would be great!
Il chitarrista insoddisfatto può usare qualsiasi cosa ma non sarà mai contento. Per il chitarrista bravo bastano poche cose per fare grande musica. George Benson ha fatto la storia con chitarra ed ampli..... a transistor... 😮😮
😀