absolutely, actually I don’t mind not so frequent updates. for me MX5 has plenty of stuff to play with and it’s stable and reliable. sounds great too and in my opinion it is more flexible in terms of sound path and no gap between switching presents too.
Must admit. Headrush are pretty on top with there product and the touch screen is really good. Never used to MX5 but at home this would work really well but I've had my Headrush Pedalboard since 2018 and still get inspired when creating patch videos and patches for music. Best wishes 😊😊😊😊👍👍👍👍
I bought the full sized PB, loved it so much I bought an MX5 for small gigs and practices. The PB goes for big gigs. Yes, you can save loops and transfer them between them. I did the Helix thing for awhile but having all those effects and only a few are usable honestly I found most of the stuff to be things I'd never use cause they sounded awful.. its quality vs quantity (helix). The MX5 amps sound better than helix, I don't need 3 delays at once but can if you wanted it. I find helix you get lost in option paralysis with the headrush I could dial usable sounds faster. They continue adding effects and amps with each update. Play with it, give it some time. No one loves the Helix in the first 30 mins. Trust me, it took me months to get a helix sound I was comfortable enough to gig with.
I loved my headrush board so much, I bought the MX-5 for travel since I travel all the time. It's amazing, light weight about the weight of a laptop and fits right in my backpack. Very easy to use, just don't be those lazy types that rely on just the presets.. they're just templates. Actually learn how to make your own rigs etc. it's fun to experiment and once you really learn the in's and out's you can come up with just about any tone you want
Okay, so I have some thoughts 😂 1. Agree - updates are sparse, but the newer stuff has been pretty cool and very useful (most recent update included the Hold and an update to scenes - 2 scenes per switch, pretty great for me). Online community doesn't seem to be thriving, and not as many models as others so not as full as something like the HX Stomp. However, this sounds way better than the Pod Go (in my opinion) and is half of what second hand HX Stomps are going for locally to me. 2. It does what it does really well, even though it doesn't have as many different models as other units, it does sound better and feels more versatile in the models it has, to me. 3. I get the issue with screen size and ancient UI, but I've always set it up on my desk and use it live in the floor which has been fine for me and my eyes, which are pretty good. 4. The expression pedal setting to control multiple ranges of settings is wicked, that paired with the dual scene functionality makes it crazy good for my live playing, even though it's such a small unit.
To me, it’s only what you really need. The latest update(s) have added even more amps and effects but honestly I’ve never felt limited using my HRPB live. In fact, it’s so beautifully simple I’m shopping for a used mx5 for smaller gigs and ease of setup. It’s literally the full pedalboard in a mini chassis!
Paul of the studio rats said you could hear artefacts/aliasing in the high gain amps as it fades out but lots of people seem to love it. I’m interested in getting one as its interface seems intuitive to me compared to the line 6 , hotone multi fx .
Yes! Finally you did it. ❤ I love my MX5, even though I agree with you about updates, being a little bit behind over brands, but I just really like the form factor, it’s light and very easy to use at least for me and most importantly I love how it sounds. I like that you have more blocks to use that HX Stomp and other similar units, especially split path thing, because I do bi-amp setups for bass and yea it sounds great on bass too. I would love to see some The 1975 tones form you on MX5.
Love my MX5. I think it's super easy to use and I LOVE the fact that it's only configurable via the touch screen. With my AX8 (which I sold after I got my MX5) I could only really configure via the PC interface (because the onboard UI is awful), so if I wanted to make any changes at gigs I would need to have my PC with me. I also used to get lost in the unlimited tweaking options in the Fractal. For me there's value in the simplicity of the HR stuff. I can get all the tones I want to get, and I don't find myself auditioning 50 amp models in the process.
I'm looking into these, but there's a "core" now and I'm torn, IS making captures the difference? (I've have no experience as my RP-1 was working good for almost 30yrs) a flagship product in its time. its glitchy and unreliable now.... i'm in the rabbit hole and now I know just enough to think the 2grand jobs do and sound the same as the sub 1granders.
I too have mixed feeling about the MX5. I have one and use it, but Headrush has been really lax about the updates. I have uncovered some really odd programing issues with some of the blocks. The BBD delay has a feedback control that does nothing until about 45%. If you put the mix at 50% on the Air Delay and the BBD delay it drops the dry signal by 4.2dB. And then the dry signal is mixed back to unity gain as you approach a mix of 0%. The ratio control on the delays is baffling. If you set 1/4 delay and set the ratio to 100% you get 1/8 followed by 1/4 note delays. If you set the ratio to 50% you get... 3/16 followed by 1/4 note delays. I have posted several times about this on the forums. Headrush responded over 18 months ago, but I doubt they will get around to fix it. The Air and Eleven verbs don't have modulation. Headrush products feel like an exercise in the speed of porting over code from the Eleven Rack on to newer DSPs. Very little thought went into making sure they work properly. If sales are strong enough, it's obviously good enough for them. In the end I discovered that Headrush is not a company, they are a brand launched by their parent company, inMusic. After the release of the Helix in 2015, inMusic took some hardware knowledge from Akai (another brand they own) and software from AVID and created a product to cash in on the success of Helix. inMusic and AVID partnered in 2013 to bundle ProTools Express with M-AUDIO and Akai hardware. The HX Stomp was released in 2018 and the MX5 came out in 2021. There isn't a team at Headrush, as far as I can tell. All of their marketing and social is out-sourced. They only pop on the forums a couple times a year when they are working on new firmware. And the new firmware is driven by a need to sell more products, not what the user are actually asking for. Most of their communication is about forwarding ideas to the developers.... which is like writing letters to Santa. When sales projections look low, inMusic hires developers to poop out some new amp models so that GuitarPlayer and MusicRadar can run their press releases. inMusic runs all the Headrush support. Headrush never released a proper user manual detailing what the parameters do. Which is odd because some of the amps, and I have tested this, are basically stat padding. For example the 65 Black Prince and the 65 Black Prince Rev are 2 amp models that sound identical. But the 65 Black Prince Rev has an inverted phase. This is not explained anywhere. It's so bad, that a user had to create a guide detailing all the parameters. A user asked the Headrush forum if he should create a guide, and there was a lot of positive response. inMusic either didn't see this (because inMusic is not currently supporting or developing anything for Headrush) or they were fine with a user doing creating a guide, which they should have created.
@@TheoMancerWhy? If the MX5 sounds good, who cares about those issues? It was an interesting read and I appreciate it, but it wouldn’t stop me from wanting one if it sounds good. How is the Veleton better? I’m genuinely curious.
@@adventurer3645 Valeton has 8 foot switches, stereo XLR out, drum computer and is 30% cheaper (in Europe). MX5 may still sound better, I may buy one if I can find one 2nd hand
I've had the Headrush Gig Board for several years, and some of the effects are less than perfect, but I think the sound quality of the amp modeling holds it's own with stuff that costs quite a bit more, especially if you're using IRs as opposed to the stock cab models. Since the MX5 adds an expression pedal and stereo FX loop, at the cost of only a smaller touch screen and one foot switch, I'd say it's a real winner.
Hi are the high gain models good too , eg Soldano , JCM800 don’t know if it has Friedman, apparently the clean amps are all brilliant Appreciate your input
@@Havanacuba1985 They're okay. Some are better than others. I like the 800 and Engl high gain models best. There is no Friedman though, and the amp selection is fairly limited overall. Honestly, since they've stopped putting out updates, I can't really recommend The Headrush any longer. You get a ton more variety from a Helix product.
Having owned the MX5 and now being an HX Stomp user, there's something about the tube screamer sound in the MX5 that I just really love. I've never owned a real tube screamer, so I don't know if it's more or less accurate than the stomp =). But there's something about it's sound I really dig and can't seem to dial in on the stomp. Kind of a more tight sound, reaching for some cheesy 80's leads IMO. Prior to the recent HX Stomp updates, I felt like the MX5 was better in terms of being able to load it up with effects and things without hitting a DSP limitation... but now I think they are more comparable and stomp has some killer reverbs and delays that the MX5 can't touch IMO.
The Headrush needs to level up on Reverbs.... Line 6 reverbs a really so good.. My favorite line reverbs are the Dynamic Hall Reverb and Shimmer.... That Saturation, Density and Damping features just make realy great Cloud, atmostphereic sounds.
Really appreciate your feedback, as well as your exceptional voicing, and eclectic shapes - not sure if this comes off the top of your head or more technical but it truly comes together with the effects. Thanks for taking your time to share with the rest of the world, JNC. 👍
Ive been using it for over a year and got the HR FRFR with great results. I loaded the Tracii Guns sounds and they’re very good. What counts most are the tones from this unit and they are very good. I plug my iphone into the aux in jack , put my headphones on and its a great practice tool too. Yeah some features I’d like to see, but the darn thing sounds really good and thats what the audience hears
I’ve owned the Headrush Pedalboard and loved it. I sold it just because it took up too much room. I replaced it with a PodGo and it was ok, but really didn’t care for it. I sold it, and been playing mostly acoustic guitar lately so just using an old Boss MuliEffects unit when I get the urge to rock out. But got a great deal on a new MX5 silver edition for $330 so looking forward to headrushing again! From videos I’ve watched I think it sounds great and already know the layout of using it because I owned the pedalboard. Not worried about the smaller screen, I got readers! Everyone have a great day!
Got back into playing guitar and I am surprised at all the digital gear that sounds so good these days compared to the Vox Valvetronix from decades back. Yeah, remember that? I picked this MX5 up and it's been a pleasure to play. Through my headphones, this sounds amazing, but once I put it in front of a tube amp or any guitar amp, the tone is not good at all. I need to re-adjust all my parameters and eq settings. So for anyone interested in buying this unit, please look into the FRFR speaker. This is a must. You need a full range speaker to optimize this to its potential!
Great that you're starting to take a look at this, I think it's a capable solid unit at that price. You can change the layout to a number of different options (there's a button top right when you're on the signal chain screen). There's more or less the same power as the Gigboard as I understand it. Ultimately I found the effects to be a bit limiting to be used as an all in one gigging box, but I think it sounds great.
Great review! Thank you! "DebowyMocny" touched upon this point....The one tiny criticism I have is that it is never fair to compare a product to other products that cost $100's more. This thing retails for $399. There will always be "better" products of any item that cost more. The question is: "Is it a GOOD VALUE?" or does it suck?
I have a flagship headrush. Everyone that hates on it says “it’s just an eleven rack” while they sip on their white mocha and tuck their helix in bed and pretend most of the effects on their board didn’t come from the pod and hd500x.
I think the amp modelling on Headrush has been overlooked - to me it is open, natural and easy to tweak - I prefer it to Helix for sure, though the effects and computer interface on helix are certainly superior.
I really liked my Digidesign/Avid Eleven Rack (made by the Headrush crew before Avid stupidly let them go). When looking to move on from it, I seriously considered Headrush because of how well the Eleven Rack worked. But the absence of companion plug-ins is what led me to switch over to Line 6 (HX & Native). That said, as someone who mainly plays at home, I really wish there was something affordable in the Eleven Rack rack-mount format. I find that a lot better for my workflow than a box on the floor. In my sidecar rack, the Eleven Rack basically is at the level of the controls of a real amp, and really convenient to twiddle. Despite having HX gear now, I still use the Eleven Rack at times because it's more convenient (while still having solid tones). -Tom
Hey John, thanks for posting. As usual, your playing makes anything sound fantastic. I grabbed a used Headrush Gigboard and basically use it as a desktop unit. Headrush make all the same presets available for Gigboard, MX5, etc. Agree it doesn't have the same versatility as the Helix stuff. And honestly, my first choice was to get a Helix Stomp, but in the Toronto area, used ones are still going for about double the price of a used Headrush Gigboard, so it is worth mentioning that for the money, (there goes the old saying...) I feel it's a pretty nice unit. And definitely, I'd be interested in any presets you upload - I'll definitely grab them. Cheers!
I have none, always played with tube amps and plenty of classical pedals, this one truly sounds more truthful in terms of pure sound, more alive and natural. Thanks for sharing
I bought one of these when they first came out to use strictly as a small table top modeler. Since then, I have written over every single preset/rig in the unit. I almost returned it due to the presets (which I didn't care for.) That being stated, since then I really like the rigs I have been able to create. I purchased it over the Pod Go for it's ability to load dual amps and cabinets as well as being able to move any block to any location instantly and also the effects loop. Is it the best thing out there? I'm sure it's not, as technology doesn't stand still and our digital options are growing at an alarming rate. It's a great time for guitarists. The screen is small and and if you have "phat" fingers you might want to throw it against the wall. All in all, for the price and what it offers I actually have nothing to complain about. I use it every single day to practice, it hasn't failed me yet.
Hey good sound just qestion nathan I want to buy one I don't know which is better, the mx5 headrush or the line 6 hx stomp or the new tonex pedal ..? Thanks bro :)
With 3 switches it is amazing what you can do with them. I cannot find any of these options neither with fractal or any other vendor. So to me they have done a great job! Portability, low power consumption and IR loading… what do you need more? Thanks for the great video. Kind regards
We are a bit limited in amps.. only 50.. Well sir, 50 is limited? Maybe less than some other brands, but 50 should be more than enough for 99% of your tone needs.
I am considering the MX5 for home practice and being able to record (and save) song ideas, but I really would like to have rhythm tracks or at least a metronome. Is it easy to import drum loops or a metronome to the MX5? Otherwise, any suggestions on a unit that can save loops and that has some drum loops or a metronome, priced under $550. It would have to have an aux-in and headphone out. Thanks!
I recently picked up the Headrush Prime, I’m a Helix/Kemper user and I’ve been happy with the Prime. Fortunately I’ve not had any issues, I’ve done several captures of my amps and pedals and they’ve all come out well. So it got me thinking about the MX5 as a fly rig, I believe that I should be able to share patches between the Prime and the MX5 as long as they don’t use captures and just stick to the modelling. Be interesting to see what you think of the Prime 🙂
I have a Prime too, in addition to a Kemper Stage and Fractal FM3. The Prime is a really cool unit that to me really has it's own personality. My Prime on Daniel Kramer's preset pack ($13) has it sounding terrific. To me, all of my units have their own personality, but the Prime on the right preset pack can be very impressive.
I am a Helix kinda guy, but i do appreciate the plethora of amp modelers we have! The Mx5 i think is better than the PodGo due to being able to use dual amps. And my goodness, the price! I have an Hx stomp too and absolutely like the form factor and easy to just grab and go without using the big Helix., I do wish it had a built in expression pedal though. So, the Mx5 is tempting
This is so cool.. I was able to make gear decisions from your channel after a lot of confusion... Thanks again.. I can't find any comparison video between gx100 and MX5... I though use the gx100 but really loved the reverb on this mx5. A comparison video will be great.
Should I buy the Nux mg30 or the Headrush mx 5? I mostly play in my bedroom sometimes I do gigs. I don't have an audio interface so I also plan to use it as one to record guitar
Nice. Looking for a more compact rig. This might be it. I actually like the sound of that Ambi Verb better than the Shimmer on the L6 Helix lol. Nice demo!
Curious your thoughts on the poly pitch fx. Was thinking about grabbing one of these for my wife for bass as there are a few songs we do in d standard, haven’t had any complaints using the stomp, it is a little digital sounding, but she said she wished she could just change a preset rather than tune down. How do you think the mx5 compares to the stomp?
Congratulations on the content. Makes me want to buy it. I have an ampero stomp stomp 2. I'm seriously considering switching to a Headrush mx5 or HX stomp. In my opinion the Ampero is not going to arrive so soon in the frequency of updates and improvements that the competitors do. Can you give me your opinion on the matter? In general terms, drive, amp, modulations, reverbs, delays!? Thank you very much in advance.
Hello John. Interesting video. It depends what you want to use one for. I've had the Headrush Pedalboard since 2018 and have used it lots of times while depping however now I'm using it for ambient guitar etc... which works great. Would I buy one probably not as the screens far to small. Best wishes from the Lake District 🥶🥶🥶🥶😊😊😊😊😊😊
Purchased one for my son when they came out and he messed with it for a few days and did not care for it. At the time (and have no idea if this has changed) but it has NO editing software at all! That little touchscreen is far too small and is nothing but a hindrance to use if you want to get anything done. Returned it and purchased a Pod Go and he likes that unit much better and loves the solid editing software and even said he likes the (Old School Knobs) better as it's faster than the stupid touchscreen of the MX5. At this price point all this digital stuff sounds about the same anyway, so it just comes down to what is more user friendly, and he likes the Pod GO much better in every respect.
I would like to request a video about EQ. I know you touched the subject in your lead tone video, but it would be amazing to see how to do it in the mx5 and other platforms
Does anyone know how to use a dual Ampero footswitch pedal with the MX5? I saw some videos with the M-Vave Chocolate, but it had an app for programming. However, my footswitch is basic, and I don't know how to configure it with the MX5.
If you like menu diving and their many effects Boss GT1000 Core. The MX5 has less options but very intuitive to get started. I recently got a Boss GX-100 that I recommend you take a look at but it is bigger than these 2. But for the money I would go with the MX5.
how are the clean sounds with just a touch of verb? I hate lots of effects and compression...Just a good fender twin or jc120 sounds...no distortion...
I have an issue with the MX5, when I assign the physical pedals to a scene or individual pedal only the one on the left actually works since the other ones change the whole rig (even though I assigned them to a scene), I'd really appreciate if someone knew what I am missing
For the purposes I bought it for its perfect but I do think its a lil unfair 2 even try & compare it to a Helix, Fractal or the any other top of the line full board. Its seemingly built for ease of use & compactness over the full board flexibilitys. And its ability for IR loading & use makes up for a lot of its sound short comings. Of all the newer producers of multi-effect pedals Headrush is definately in the top 3-4 companies. For the price it was definately worth it if u cant spend a grand on a full pedal board. My only real criticism would be to just buy an external footpedal cuz the lil guy on the unit is better off left alone especially in a live setting. hahahaha
Both the Gigboard and Pedalboard are current products, they had supply issues a while back and have struggled to get new ones made, there's a new firmware update in beta that has some cool stuff in it.
@@StevePond they should have taken the opportunity to make a new hardware and software aren't they still using the same software from the eleven rack? The software is nearly 15 years old now and showing it's age vs modern software.
@@Rockerrobin What could they do with new Hardware? It has more DSP than most, My Helix would always run out of power, the Headrush never does.. It has scribble strips on each button, only the Helix has that, AXE FX Kemper and Quad Cortex don't have them, this is a win for the Headrush, The software started at Eleven Rack but they've added loads of Amps and Effects since then, people complain they don't update as often as Line 6, true, but how many overdrives do you need? if they never updated again I'd be happy, the amps feel great to play, there are multiple types of all effects, and the interface is so much more intuitive and fun to use than the others. BUT.. All modern modellers can get the job done, in a mix they all work, so pick the one that brings you joy.
Yes, it probably does not work for you, but many users are ok with their hr mx5s. You had the chance to use the higher range, you mentioned Quad Cortex - yes. But the price range is not there
I’ve never tried Headrush, but from my experience, watching other RUclips videos about it, it’s basically the same as the 11 rack, which is the same company that developed the Headrush. So it makes sense that there’s not many new amps because they’re basically recycling the old stuff from the 11 rack. And since the 11 rack went into obscurity, a few years back, I’ve never been able to trust the Eleven company again to update their products.
I had the headrush unit . touch screen is great and the sounds were great . The biggest downfall for me was the stupid power supply plug , using it live was impossible and I got rid of the unit after 1 gig. Should’ve come with the usual jug style plug that most other units have.
My MX5 unit (1yr old in US market) came with a "normal" power cord. Jack into the unit, power converter brick in the middle of the cord, normal plug into the wall. Works great in any orientation in a power strip.
How does the Headrush MX5 compare to a Focusrite Scarlett solo as an audio interface for recording to the computer ? Are the soundquality comparable ? Can you use the Headrush MX5 as an amp to plug it directly into a cabinet and use it as an amp and get tube like sound to a cabinet or big speaker ? I get that a tube head amp is much better but is it somewhat comparable ?
I have the gigboard and though I like it in many the lack of support / development of software and model updates as well for their user community will cause me to make a move if that doesn’t change. There are a few hardware issues like the wall wart power supply approach and a flimsy power button that are concerning.
Absolutely more Headrush MX5 content please! I get that it’s an underdog but it’s a solid and capable unit at that price point.
absolutely, actually I don’t mind not so frequent updates. for me MX5 has plenty of stuff to play with and it’s stable and reliable. sounds great too and in my opinion it is more flexible in terms of sound path and no gap between switching presents too.
I don't think he's any weaker. This has some downsides, but show me an effect without downsides.
Must admit. Headrush are pretty on top with there product and the touch screen is really good. Never used to MX5 but at home this would work really well but I've had my Headrush Pedalboard since 2018 and still get inspired when creating patch videos and patches for music. Best wishes 😊😊😊😊👍👍👍👍
Agreed, I sold my Helix LT for MX5 and 2 notes Revolt, It was the correct decsion.
I bought the full sized PB, loved it so much I bought an MX5 for small gigs and practices. The PB goes for big gigs. Yes, you can save loops and transfer them between them. I did the Helix thing for awhile but having all those effects and only a few are usable honestly I found most of the stuff to be things I'd never use cause they sounded awful.. its quality vs quantity (helix). The MX5 amps sound better than helix, I don't need 3 delays at once but can if you wanted it. I find helix you get lost in option paralysis with the headrush I could dial usable sounds faster. They continue adding effects and amps with each update. Play with it, give it some time. No one loves the Helix in the first 30 mins. Trust me, it took me months to get a helix sound I was comfortable enough to gig with.
I loved my headrush board so much, I bought the MX-5 for travel since I travel all the time. It's amazing, light weight about the weight of a laptop and fits right in my backpack. Very easy to use, just don't be those lazy types that rely on just the presets.. they're just templates. Actually learn how to make your own rigs etc. it's fun to experiment and once you really learn the in's and out's you can come up with just about any tone you want
Okay, so I have some thoughts 😂
1. Agree - updates are sparse, but the newer stuff has been pretty cool and very useful (most recent update included the Hold and an update to scenes - 2 scenes per switch, pretty great for me). Online community doesn't seem to be thriving, and not as many models as others so not as full as something like the HX Stomp. However, this sounds way better than the Pod Go (in my opinion) and is half of what second hand HX Stomps are going for locally to me.
2. It does what it does really well, even though it doesn't have as many different models as other units, it does sound better and feels more versatile in the models it has, to me.
3. I get the issue with screen size and ancient UI, but I've always set it up on my desk and use it live in the floor which has been fine for me and my eyes, which are pretty good.
4. The expression pedal setting to control multiple ranges of settings is wicked, that paired with the dual scene functionality makes it crazy good for my live playing, even though it's such a small unit.
The fact you are comparing the MX5 (£400) to the Quad Cortex (£1600) says it all..
To me, it’s only what you really need. The latest update(s) have added even more amps and effects but honestly I’ve never felt limited using my HRPB live. In fact, it’s so beautifully simple I’m shopping for a used mx5 for smaller gigs and ease of setup. It’s literally the full pedalboard in a mini chassis!
Paul of the studio rats said you could hear artefacts/aliasing in the high gain amps as it fades out but lots of people seem to love it. I’m interested in getting one as its interface seems intuitive to me compared to the line 6 , hotone multi fx .
Yes! Finally you did it. ❤ I love my MX5, even though I agree with you about updates, being a little bit behind over brands, but I just really like the form factor, it’s light and very easy to use at least for me and most importantly I love how it sounds. I like that you have more blocks to use that HX Stomp and other similar units, especially split path thing, because I do bi-amp setups for bass and yea it sounds great on bass too. I would love to see some The 1975 tones form you on MX5.
Love my MX5. I think it's super easy to use and I LOVE the fact that it's only configurable via the touch screen. With my AX8 (which I sold after I got my MX5) I could only really configure via the PC interface (because the onboard UI is awful), so if I wanted to make any changes at gigs I would need to have my PC with me. I also used to get lost in the unlimited tweaking options in the Fractal. For me there's value in the simplicity of the HR stuff. I can get all the tones I want to get, and I don't find myself auditioning 50 amp models in the process.
I'm looking into these, but there's a "core" now and I'm torn, IS making captures the difference? (I've have no experience as my RP-1 was working good for almost 30yrs) a flagship product in its time. its glitchy and unreliable now.... i'm in the rabbit hole and now I know just enough to think the 2grand jobs do and sound the same as the sub 1granders.
FINALLY!!!! THANK YOU JOHN!
I'm only a few minutes in, whichever way this goes I'm really keen to see more Headrush content from you. 🥳🤙🏽
I too have mixed feeling about the MX5. I have one and use it, but Headrush has been really lax about the updates. I have uncovered some really odd programing issues with some of the blocks. The BBD delay has a feedback control that does nothing until about 45%. If you put the mix at 50% on the Air Delay and the BBD delay it drops the dry signal by 4.2dB. And then the dry signal is mixed back to unity gain as you approach a mix of 0%.
The ratio control on the delays is baffling. If you set 1/4 delay and set the ratio to 100% you get 1/8 followed by 1/4 note delays. If you set the ratio to 50% you get... 3/16 followed by 1/4 note delays. I have posted several times about this on the forums. Headrush responded over 18 months ago, but I doubt they will get around to fix it.
The Air and Eleven verbs don't have modulation.
Headrush products feel like an exercise in the speed of porting over code from the Eleven Rack on to newer DSPs. Very little thought went into making sure they work properly. If sales are strong enough, it's obviously good enough for them.
In the end I discovered that Headrush is not a company, they are a brand launched by their parent company, inMusic. After the release of the Helix in 2015, inMusic took some hardware knowledge from Akai (another brand they own) and software from AVID and created a product to cash in on the success of Helix. inMusic and AVID partnered in 2013 to bundle ProTools Express with M-AUDIO and Akai hardware. The HX Stomp was released in 2018 and the MX5 came out in 2021. There isn't a team at Headrush, as far as I can tell. All of their marketing and social is out-sourced. They only pop on the forums a couple times a year when they are working on new firmware. And the new firmware is driven by a need to sell more products, not what the user are actually asking for. Most of their communication is about forwarding ideas to the developers.... which is like writing letters to Santa.
When sales projections look low, inMusic hires developers to poop out some new amp models so that GuitarPlayer and MusicRadar can run their press releases.
inMusic runs all the Headrush support. Headrush never released a proper user manual detailing what the parameters do. Which is odd because some of the amps, and I have tested this, are basically stat padding. For example the 65 Black Prince and the 65 Black Prince Rev are 2 amp models that sound identical. But the 65 Black Prince Rev has an inverted phase. This is not explained anywhere.
It's so bad, that a user had to create a guide detailing all the parameters. A user asked the Headrush forum if he should create a guide, and there was a lot of positive response. inMusic either didn't see this (because inMusic is not currently supporting or developing anything for Headrush) or they were fine with a user doing creating a guide, which they should have created.
Well said mate
this may have single-handedly nudged me toward the Valeton GP-200 instead, thanks for this detailed write-up
@@TheoMancerWhy? If the MX5 sounds good, who cares about those issues? It was an interesting read and I appreciate it, but it wouldn’t stop me from wanting one if it sounds good. How is the Veleton better? I’m genuinely curious.
@@adventurer3645 Valeton has 8 foot switches, stereo XLR out, drum computer and is 30% cheaper (in Europe). MX5 may still sound better, I may buy one if I can find one 2nd hand
I've had the Headrush Gig Board for several years, and some of the effects are less than perfect, but I think the sound quality of the amp modeling holds it's own with stuff that costs quite a bit more, especially if you're using IRs as opposed to the stock cab models.
Since the MX5 adds an expression pedal and stereo FX loop, at the cost of only a smaller touch screen and one foot switch, I'd say it's a real winner.
Hi are the high gain models good too , eg Soldano , JCM800 don’t know if it has Friedman, apparently the clean amps are all brilliant
Appreciate your input
@@Havanacuba1985 They're okay. Some are better than others. I like the 800 and Engl high gain models best.
There is no Friedman though, and the amp selection is fairly limited overall.
Honestly, since they've stopped putting out updates, I can't really recommend The Headrush any longer. You get a ton more variety from a Helix product.
Having owned the MX5 and now being an HX Stomp user, there's something about the tube screamer sound in the MX5 that I just really love. I've never owned a real tube screamer, so I don't know if it's more or less accurate than the stomp =). But there's something about it's sound I really dig and can't seem to dial in on the stomp. Kind of a more tight sound, reaching for some cheesy 80's leads IMO. Prior to the recent HX Stomp updates, I felt like the MX5 was better in terms of being able to load it up with effects and things without hitting a DSP limitation... but now I think they are more comparable and stomp has some killer reverbs and delays that the MX5 can't touch IMO.
The Headrush needs to level up on Reverbs.... Line 6 reverbs a really so good.. My favorite line reverbs are the Dynamic Hall Reverb and Shimmer.... That Saturation, Density and Damping features just make realy great Cloud, atmostphereic sounds.
@@georgemavimbela they just added particle verb, ambiverb and a couple other things like dimensional chorus and shimmer
Really appreciate your feedback, as well as your exceptional voicing, and eclectic shapes - not sure if this comes off the top of your head or more technical but it truly comes together with the effects. Thanks for taking your time to share with the rest of the world, JNC. 👍
Ive been using it for over a year and got the HR FRFR with great results. I loaded the Tracii Guns sounds and they’re very good. What counts most are the tones from this unit and they are very good. I plug my iphone into the aux in jack , put my headphones on and its a great practice tool too. Yeah some features I’d like to see, but the darn thing sounds really good and thats what the audience hears
I’ve owned the Headrush Pedalboard and loved it. I sold it just because it took up too much room. I replaced it with a PodGo and it was ok, but really didn’t care for it. I sold it, and been playing mostly acoustic guitar lately so just using an old Boss MuliEffects unit when I get the urge to rock out. But got a great deal on a new MX5 silver edition for $330 so looking forward to headrushing again! From videos I’ve watched I think it sounds great and already know the layout of using it because I owned the pedalboard. Not worried about the smaller screen, I got readers! Everyone have a great day!
Got back into playing guitar and I am surprised at all the digital gear that sounds so good these days compared to the Vox Valvetronix from decades back. Yeah, remember that? I picked this MX5 up and it's been a pleasure to play. Through my headphones, this sounds amazing, but once I put it in front of a tube amp or any guitar amp, the tone is not good at all. I need to re-adjust all my parameters and eq settings. So for anyone interested in buying this unit, please look into the FRFR speaker. This is a must. You need a full range speaker to optimize this to its potential!
yes! more Headrush MX5 content please!
Great that you're starting to take a look at this, I think it's a capable solid unit at that price. You can change the layout to a number of different options (there's a button top right when you're on the signal chain screen). There's more or less the same power as the Gigboard as I understand it. Ultimately I found the effects to be a bit limiting to be used as an all in one gigging box, but I think it sounds great.
Great review! Thank you! "DebowyMocny" touched upon this point....The one tiny criticism I have is that it is never fair to compare a product to other products that cost $100's more. This thing retails for $399. There will always be "better" products of any item that cost more. The question is: "Is it a GOOD VALUE?" or does it suck?
I'd be happy to see more Headrush content, because I own the MX5 and would be interested to hear what tones you can come out with.
I have a flagship headrush. Everyone that hates on it says “it’s just an eleven rack” while they sip on their white mocha and tuck their helix in bed and pretend most of the effects on their board didn’t come from the pod and hd500x.
Line 6 smug is obnoxious
The MX5 served me well for our smaller shows- it is a great unit and with some good IRs yet can dial in some great tones
I think the amp modelling on Headrush has been overlooked - to me it is open, natural and easy to tweak - I prefer it to Helix for sure, though the effects and computer interface on helix are certainly superior.
I really liked my Digidesign/Avid Eleven Rack (made by the Headrush crew before Avid stupidly let them go). When looking to move on from it, I seriously considered Headrush because of how well the Eleven Rack worked. But the absence of companion plug-ins is what led me to switch over to Line 6 (HX & Native). That said, as someone who mainly plays at home, I really wish there was something affordable in the Eleven Rack rack-mount format. I find that a lot better for my workflow than a box on the floor. In my sidecar rack, the Eleven Rack basically is at the level of the controls of a real amp, and really convenient to twiddle. Despite having HX gear now, I still use the Eleven Rack at times because it's more convenient (while still having solid tones). -Tom
Hey John, thanks for posting. As usual, your playing makes anything sound fantastic. I grabbed a used Headrush Gigboard and basically use it as a desktop unit. Headrush make all the same presets available for Gigboard, MX5, etc. Agree it doesn't have the same versatility as the Helix stuff. And honestly, my first choice was to get a Helix Stomp, but in the Toronto area, used ones are still going for about double the price of a used Headrush Gigboard, so it is worth mentioning that for the money, (there goes the old saying...) I feel it's a pretty nice unit. And definitely, I'd be interested in any presets you upload - I'll definitely grab them. Cheers!
I have none, always played with tube amps and plenty of classical pedals, this one truly sounds more truthful in terms of pure sound, more alive and natural. Thanks for sharing
I bought one of these when they first came out to use strictly as a small table top modeler. Since then, I have written over every single preset/rig in the unit. I almost returned it due to the presets (which I didn't care for.) That being stated, since then I really like the rigs I have been able to create. I purchased it over the Pod Go for it's ability to load dual amps and cabinets as well as being able to move any block to any location instantly and also the effects loop. Is it the best thing out there? I'm sure it's not, as technology doesn't stand still and our digital options are growing at an alarming rate. It's a great time for guitarists. The screen is small and and if you have "phat" fingers you might want to throw it against the wall. All in all, for the price and what it offers I actually have nothing to complain about. I use it every single day to practice, it hasn't failed me yet.
Yeah, presets on nearly all units are pretty poor, perhaps except Fractal.
Hey good sound just qestion nathan
I want to buy one I don't know which is better, the mx5 headrush or the line 6 hx stomp or the new tonex pedal ..?
Thanks bro :)
Yay, Santa claus in February 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Ive been waiting for this!
Hope you will post that preset in the box because i have an mx5 and i love it. Thanks
Gorgeous tones on that intro. 👍
With 3 switches it is amazing what you can do with them. I cannot find any of these options neither with fractal or any other vendor. So to me they have done a great job! Portability, low power consumption and IR loading… what do you need more? Thanks for the great video. Kind regards
We are a bit limited in amps.. only 50.. Well sir, 50 is limited? Maybe less than some other brands, but 50 should be more than enough for 99% of your tone needs.
I like it a lot, but my only grip is that I can't edit anything using an interface on my PC. Everything is touch screen.
Just wondering... Was the intro song to this video played on the Headrush, or was that another rig you used to show off some pretty spiffy licks?
I am considering the MX5 for home practice and being able to record (and save) song ideas, but I really would like to have rhythm tracks or at least a metronome. Is it easy to import drum loops or a metronome to the MX5?
Otherwise, any suggestions on a unit that can save loops and that has some drum loops or a metronome, priced under $550. It would have to have an aux-in and headphone out. Thanks!
I recently picked up the Headrush Prime, I’m a Helix/Kemper user and I’ve been happy with the Prime. Fortunately I’ve not had any issues, I’ve done several captures of my amps and pedals and they’ve all come out well.
So it got me thinking about the MX5 as a fly rig, I believe that I should be able to share patches between the Prime and the MX5 as long as they don’t use captures and just stick to the modelling.
Be interesting to see what you think of the Prime 🙂
I have a Prime too, in addition to a Kemper Stage and Fractal FM3. The Prime is a really cool unit that to me really has it's own personality. My Prime on Daniel Kramer's preset pack ($13) has it sounding terrific. To me, all of my units have their own personality, but the Prime on the right preset pack can be very impressive.
I am a Helix kinda guy, but i do appreciate the plethora of amp modelers we have! The Mx5 i think is better than the PodGo due to being able to use dual amps. And my goodness, the price!
I have an Hx stomp too and absolutely like the form factor and easy to just grab and go without using the big Helix., I do wish it had a built in expression pedal though. So, the Mx5 is tempting
Weird I just returned the pod go and got an mx5 today,the pod go is not good, that's about as nice as I can be about it
Would you be able to do a video, showing how you build presets for recording and live? I have this unit.
yes. would love to have some presets from you. I have as a practice & backup rig. Tones lack a bit but love its balanced outputs. thanks
This is so cool.. I was able to make gear decisions from your channel after a lot of confusion... Thanks again.. I can't find any comparison video between gx100 and MX5... I though use the gx100 but really loved the reverb on this mx5. A comparison video will be great.
I would LOVE more explorations with headrush, more tips and ways to get some pro tones, textures, combinations… with this device 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Headrush or Boss GT1 ? Excellent video.
John, how were you recording this MX5 audio for the video?
Should I buy the Nux mg30 or the Headrush mx 5? I mostly play in my bedroom sometimes I do gigs. I don't have an audio interface so I also plan to use it as one to record guitar
I have one & it would be great if you did some presets .. thanks ..
Nice. Looking for a more compact rig. This might be it. I actually like the sound of that Ambi Verb better than the Shimmer on the L6 Helix lol. Nice demo!
Curious your thoughts on the poly pitch fx. Was thinking about grabbing one of these for my wife for bass as there are a few songs we do in d standard, haven’t had any complaints using the stomp, it is a little digital sounding, but she said she wished she could just change a preset rather than tune down. How do you think the mx5 compares to the stomp?
I have a HeadRush MX5 and also a Tonex pedal. Together they are amazing. That with my Eventide h90 is all i need.
Epic rig
That’s like saying you own a car, another car and a very expensive car. And together they are all you need.
I was just looking this morning to see if you had any content with the mx5, but couldn't find it. Thanks John!
Congratulations on the content. Makes me want to buy it. I have an ampero stomp stomp 2. I'm seriously considering switching to a Headrush mx5 or HX stomp. In my opinion the Ampero is not going to arrive so soon in the frequency of updates and improvements that the competitors do. Can you give me your opinion on the matter? In general terms, drive, amp, modulations, reverbs, delays!? Thank you very much in advance.
Hello John. Interesting video. It depends what you want to use one for. I've had the Headrush Pedalboard since 2018 and have used it lots of times while depping however now I'm using it for ambient guitar etc... which works great. Would I buy one probably not as the screens far to small. Best wishes from the Lake District 🥶🥶🥶🥶😊😊😊😊😊😊
Headrush needs to add a PC editor. I gave up my MX5 because of the lack of an editor, but I'll get one again if they make one.
Purchased one for my son when they came out and he messed with it for a few days and did not care for it. At the time (and have no idea if this has changed) but it has NO editing software at all! That little touchscreen is far too small and is nothing but a hindrance to use if you want to get anything done. Returned it and purchased a Pod Go and he likes that unit much better and loves the solid editing software and even said he likes the (Old School Knobs) better as it's faster than the stupid touchscreen of the MX5. At this price point all this digital stuff sounds about the same anyway, so it just comes down to what is more user friendly, and he likes the Pod GO much better in every respect.
Hallo,Tassos from Greece, what do you recommend for bass with such size? thanks...
How do you get the orange ad30 model mixed up with a rockerverb model? 12:06
I would like to request a video about EQ. I know you touched the subject in your lead tone video, but it would be amazing to see how to do it in the mx5 and other platforms
Just got the Headrush Core are your presets compatible with that unit ?
What bands sound like that intro bit? So gorgeous, I know I've heard some Intervals that sounded similar, maybe I'll look into them
Plini
Yup.. more headrush mx5 stuff.. I owned one but feel hard to use
It sounded great and looks like a solid value compared to the competition.
Does anyone know how to use a dual Ampero footswitch pedal with the MX5? I saw some videos with the M-Vave Chocolate, but it had an app for programming. However, my footswitch is basic, and I don't know how to configure it with the MX5.
Which do you recommend, mx5 or Boss gt 1000 core?
If you like menu diving and their many effects Boss GT1000 Core. The MX5 has less options but very intuitive to get started. I recently got a Boss GX-100 that I recommend you take a look at but it is bigger than these 2. But for the money I would go with the MX5.
Hi, John. Have you tried the Valeton GP 200?
MX-5 x GT 1000 x HX STOMP. Which one is best?
I’m interested in this 🤘🏻😊
how are the clean sounds with just a touch of verb? I hate lots of effects and compression...Just a good fender twin or jc120 sounds...no distortion...
Headrush MX5 vs Boss GX-100? How do the quality of effects compare?
Effects loop is stereo and the metal 80 kinds of music the amps are good
I have an issue with the MX5, when I assign the physical pedals to a scene or individual pedal only the one on the left actually works since the other ones change the whole rig (even though I assigned them to a scene), I'd really appreciate if someone knew what I am missing
Your intro tones. I got the headrush package you put out, but that intro tone. I’d pay again for just that exact tone. Please!!?!?!
What preset was the lead tone?
For the purposes I bought it for its perfect but I do think its a lil unfair 2 even try & compare it to a Helix, Fractal or the any other top of the line full board. Its seemingly built for ease of use & compactness over the full board flexibilitys. And its ability for IR loading & use makes up for a lot of its sound short comings. Of all the newer producers of multi-effect pedals Headrush is definately in the top 3-4 companies. For the price it was definately worth it if u cant spend a grand on a full pedal board. My only real criticism would be to just buy an external footpedal cuz the lil guy on the unit is better off left alone especially in a live setting. hahahaha
How do I get my hands on the presents
Do you think it’s possible to achieve the holdsworth tone with the mx5? Like you did with the helix stomp? That would be amazing in a new video
Is the mx5 all they offer now? I don't see the gigboard or pedal board listed anymore at Long & McQuade. Used prices on them are tanking rapidly too.
Both the Gigboard and Pedalboard are current products, they had supply issues a while back and have struggled to get new ones made, there's a new firmware update in beta that has some cool stuff in it.
@@StevePond they should have taken the opportunity to make a new hardware and software aren't they still using the same software from the eleven rack? The software is nearly 15 years old now and showing it's age vs modern software.
@@Rockerrobin What could they do with new Hardware? It has more DSP than most, My Helix would always run out of power, the Headrush never does.. It has scribble strips on each button, only the Helix has that, AXE FX Kemper and Quad Cortex don't have them, this is a win for the Headrush, The software started at Eleven Rack but they've added loads of Amps and Effects since then, people complain they don't update as often as Line 6, true, but how many overdrives do you need? if they never updated again I'd be happy, the amps feel great to play, there are multiple types of all effects, and the interface is so much more intuitive and fun to use than the others.
BUT.. All modern modellers can get the job done, in a mix they all work, so pick the one that brings you joy.
Compared to the BOSS GX100 which one has a better sound ?
Yes, it probably does not work for you, but many users are ok with their hr mx5s. You had the chance to use the higher range, you mentioned Quad Cortex - yes. But the price range is not there
I’ve never tried Headrush, but from my experience, watching other RUclips videos about it, it’s basically the same as the 11 rack, which is the same company that developed the Headrush. So it makes sense that there’s not many new amps because they’re basically recycling the old stuff from the 11 rack.
And since the 11 rack went into obscurity, a few years back, I’ve never been able to trust the Eleven company again to update their products.
the sw is updated, as amplitube 1, guitar rig 1 ... and so on. We are in 2023 =)
And so was helix also using some same stuff from thier old spider digital amps
I had the headrush unit . touch screen is great and the sounds were great . The biggest downfall for me was the stupid power supply plug , using it live was impossible and I got rid of the unit after 1 gig. Should’ve come with the usual jug style plug that most other units have.
My MX5 unit (1yr old in US market) came with a "normal" power cord. Jack into the unit, power converter brick in the middle of the cord, normal plug into the wall. Works great in any orientation in a power strip.
I plan on getting this but need to know how I can hook this up to the FOH that accepts only XLR on the stage.
trs to xlr cable out of the output to your FOH/PA
Yes, please!
mx5 or HX Stomp? And why? I can't decide. hahahaha. TY :)
The guy has some skill !
excellent playing!
Im waiting for this.. pls share more about headrush mx5🤭☺️
How does the Headrush MX5 compare to a Focusrite Scarlett solo as an audio interface for recording to the computer ? Are the soundquality comparable ? Can you use the Headrush MX5 as an amp to plug it directly into a cabinet and use it as an amp and get tube like sound to a cabinet or big speaker ? I get that a tube head amp is much better but is it somewhat comparable ?
Can you switch from clean to distortion within the same preset?
Yes
2:20 hoooooooly🔥🔥🔥🔥
Nice Satriani sound.
Do you need to have a laptop to use one of these?
no
Can you plug it straight into the front of the amp or is just straight into a cab or computer??
New 2.7 firmware on its way 🙂
ambient presset please
I have the gigboard and though I like it in many the lack of support / development of software and model updates as well for their user community will cause me to make a move if that doesn’t change. There are a few hardware issues like the wall wart power supply approach and a flimsy power button that are concerning.
I bought the MX5 and could not get a decent tone out of it. Took it back.
Then you didn't spend enough time learning how to get good tones
sure did just not for me@@ryant3600
Hi. Can the MX5 be used straight with headphones and no amp?
Yes
I had one for a day. Hated the delays. Not sure why, but thought they sounded terrible.
then you weren't adjusting them right
Please build some presents
No, you shouldn't🤣 I had one before the quad cortex. yes it worth the money absolutely and sounds pretty descend