Fascinating to see the range of opinions in the comments, many of them quite opposite. FWIW I prefer the sound of the Powercab in this video by quite a lot - to my ears it sound warmer and more 'natural'.
This is why I love your channel. You’re the only guy on RUclips doing this comparison! I’ve had my eye on the powercab for awhile now, but due to its price tag and its apparent lack of availability in my area, never purchased one let alone got to try one out in the store. Then when I heard about the Catalyst and its power amp in capability, I have been searching RUclips high and low for comparison videos. Nothing til now. I already purchased the Catalyst 60 last week after watching your reviews of it and was thrilled with it, but I still had this nagging question of “Would the powercab have been better?” After watching this video, I’m even more happy that I went with the Catalyst. Thank you!
Yeah I can definitely hear what you were talking about in the intro. The catalyst sounds more in the room because the mic is picking up all the reflections. The powercab sounds more direct. But tonally they both sound so similar. This was the video I was waiting for. Just bought the catalyst. Cheers!
Differences mainly between open and closed back cabinets i think. Reckon I’ll pick one up, going to be a load better than the 8” Headrush thing I’ve got which makes a noise you could weld with.
Very helpful video. I like the open sound of the Catalyst. For the money, I can get 2 Catalyst for the price of one Powercab and run stereo rigs for my Kemper and FM3. Thank you John.
The powercab was sounding far better then the Catalyst but when you tapped up the volume slightly on the Catalyst they sounded alot closer. With the powercab the modulations were awesome as well slightly better then the Catalyst. But considering the far cheaper price, an actual amplifier with effects loop and power attenuation I am leaning towards the Catalyst. Thank you so much for your video I never would have thought the Catalyst would even approach the Powercab sonically.
Yeah u agree the master volume made the difference less and more alike definitely alot the do with the closed cab maintaining more control of the lows and low mids a more controlled cabinet on the powercab to allow for better adjustment of the rest of the frequency range upwards.
I bought a powercab 212. i am blown away by this one in comparison to the 112... The 112 i had was used. Damn... i can't believe how good the 212 sound. It's expensive but it cost every cents. The catalyst is an affordable choice and an amp you can use in every situations. Grettings!
Catalyst sounds pretty good. I’ve had 3 different versions of the Katana and couldn’t gel with it, but the catalyst could be great for a grab and go amp to pair with the Stomp or even by itself.
Could you maybe do a three-way comparison with the direct signal as well? Both sound good but what you really want is a cab that recreates the sound as accurately as possible and we could judge that best if we had the reference to compare :)
Hay great video. The Catalyst does sound like it not as load as the Powercab and that is most likely he fact that the Catalyst is open backed like you mention. However, disregarding the slight volume difference. The Catalyst "tonally" always sounds like it being chocked down whereas the Powercab sounds like the tone is not being choked. The Powercab is way more open. I have a Helix Floor and the Powercab is definitely the way I am going to go, specialy with the 212 plus model. I don't like the choked sound of the Catalyst at all. Thanks for this video it was extremely helpful.
Great comparison! Catalyst easily is better to me. The Powercab doesn’t sound like an amp to me, and is somewhat dark and a bit boomy. What I would love to see is Catalyst vs equivalent 1x12” Spider mk ii video. I have the Spider V 60 ii, and it’s great.
I tried out the Catalyst the other day and was impressed.. The overdrive tones sounded natural and organic * even at higher volumes .. Much better than the Katana ! The Catalyst is hard to beat at it's price point !
Agreed. I was messing around with one in GC the other day, and the sheer versatility of all of those tones blew me away. Gonna do more research and perhaps get a couple to do W/D/W with.
To me, in the initial hearing, I tend to find the powercab to be tighter, and that it retains more of the tonal characteristics of the helix (I have a helix, so I feel like that makes sense to those of us who have one), whether that be tightness, warmth, pop, punch etc. The catalyst after a while starts to sound better. Perhaps if I didn't hear it immediately next to the powercab I would think it sounded pretty good still. When I hear them together I keep thinking they would make great layers for recording, like one panned left and the other right. Catalyst is thinner and brighter sounding, powercab is tighter, punchier and warmer overall.
I don't own neither of these. Once again, thank you for this video! I found the low end to be superior on the PC, at least in my headphones (Sennheiser HD 280 pro). I love the fact that the catalyst can be used standalone and is less $$$, but to my ears, the PC sounds fuller. Very helpful comparison!
Powercab seems like it has more "air" or headroom or something letting more frequencies through. The Catalyst seems like its holding the tone down a bit. Neither sound bad, I just feel like the Powercab is doing a better job - the job it's designed to do.
Although some are saying they don’t hear a lot of difference, I very much do. The powercab sounds better to me by a fair amount in this video. I’m quite sure the catalyst can get a good sound with eq tweaks in the helix/whatever modeler you use, and I love that it’s open back, but seeing this video has firmly dispelled any notion I might’ve had to sell my PC112+ to pick up a Catalyst. So, for me at least, the answer to the question of if Line 6 has “killed” the PC with the Catalyst, is a resounding hell no.
I own both and I agree that (IMHO) the Catalyst is not a competitor for the PC when you hear them both in the room- likewise any ideas I had of selling the PC have been parked after trying them alongside each other
Listening on 15 year old computer monitors, the powercab had more the full sound I look for with the the high gain stuff, but Catalyst kept up with the cleaner tones. It doesn’t sound like you can really go wrong with either! And you can get two Catalyst 200 watts for less than a a powercab 212, but then you’ll be lugging around 2 amps to get stereo sounds. Options…
Clear difference but using the Catalyst this way is certainly a more than serviceable function. Truthfully, I’m surprised that the Catalyst did this well against a purpose built piece of gear like the PowerCab. Thank you John!
The differences are very subtle with a little more clarity to the PC. That being said once you open your set with drums, bass, keys and any other instruments coming in you aren't going to hear those differences. The Catalyst is retailing at $399 USD where the PC+ is $799 USD. Is the PC more than twice as good? I really don't think so. I think John's theory of a closed back cab as opposed to an open one is spot on. You get a much more direct sound from the PC but more room sound from the Catalyst. That could cause the tone shift. Turning up the Catalyst brought the two closer together in tone, by the way. Now, add in the fact that the Catalyst is also a regular amp which means you don't have to break out the Helix or other modeler to practice with (my floor sits in a flight case when not used). Sound goes to PC. Versatility goes to the Catalyst.
Hey. I enjoyed the video. I do have a question, did you use a preamp model or amp model when going into the catalyst? If using the amp model, you were running a the modeled power amp into the power amp of the catalyst which would effect the sound. I run my stomp through the Poweramp input of a Boss katana and had to learn this lesson the hard way. My understanding is that the modeled preamp on the helix doesn't have the power amp modeled and uses the power amp from the real amp.
Love you get your hands on a Harley Benton 1x12 frfr. Know you are a line6 guy, of sorts, but they are (or were)very loud, and only about 160 quid, and sound just superb with the Helix, if only just to show modelling doesn't have to be at all expensive to be extremely effective and lovely sounding, tonally. They are rugged as hell too. To think you can buy two, and have a superb rig for the price of one of these Line6 thingies, and just bathe yourself in extremely loud, tonal loveliness..is really quite staggering.
Judging from the sound bites in the video: The Powercab sounds more focused (more 1kHz content) while the Catalyst sounds more open but also a bit fatter - like adding depth and presence simultaniously on an amp. In a band the Powercab would probably provide more articulation and the Catalyst more the big wall of sound.
Mmm I find this really interesting tbh as I've just got my one today! And at some point soon I want the pod go, would I just configure the hook up the same? Thanks for your upload 👍🙏🐈
Hey friend, everything okay? I follow your work and see that you have many videos of the helix line. In your opinion, in a concert situation, does it sound better on a powercab type frfr or on the return of a tube amplifier like a Marshall dsl 40cr with the ir turned off?
Are you helix IR's when playing through the catalyst? Or are you only using the helix effects, and then using the built in amp modeling with the catalyst? If you're still using the IRs in the Helix, what settings do you recommended on the catalyst to help keep your patches sounding like they did through monitors?
The Power cab sounded better. I like the idea of the speaker modeling occurring in the cabinet and not in the modeler. Seems like the best way to do it.
Before I sold my katana I used to take my helix and output into the power amp of the katana, which is what your doing with the catalyst. But I only ever did that when playing at home as for live gigs I just went straight into the mixer with the helix and used iem's from the mixer. In the end I got tired of coming home and messing with the katana and sold it to make space. No I no longer play live and just at home I miss it and I am considering a powercab to get that amp in the room feel back. Is the plus really worth it? If I want a custom ir, I am guessing there won't be much difference between loading that on the helix over the powercab plus. And I think I'd be just happy with the built in speaker options.
I have a 100watt catalyst combo, pod go, in comparison with the way you've set them both up for the A/B demonstration my ears tell me I like the power powercab most, mostly because of the more natural setting it was on, and it definitely sounded more defined tighter bass on higher gain than the catalyst I don't use the high gain model on the catalyst, mostly the voxy chime amp and the two variations of clean- clean and dynamic for four cable method, id lean towards the powercab as a better option at higher volumes but put of by the cost. But definitely something in the closed vs open back cabinets, much more directional when the back us closed off, I have my catalyst on a 30 degree tilt back stand lifting the bottom up off the ground by about 40cm front 30cm at back with sound proofing foam sheets behind to absorb that deflected bass out the open back to try nit piss off the neighbours downstairs too much and capture any reflections so the front is while aiming up at my ears and into the rooms biggest space the sound us more controlled and clearer in my ears. The powercab sound lovely on that natural setting, a fuller sound more heard across the frequency spectrum, it captures more of the guitars natural dynamics. But I'm not writing off the catalyst just yet, I have still much to explore in the capabilities of what it may be able to do... Live situation- powercab is a better choice, clearer mid/high mids and the mix between the lo and low mids across the different tones and styles were more defined and projected in a more pronounced voicing. P's and Q's were better trained so to speak! I expect in the mix it woukd stand up rather nicely and not get lost as much as the catalyst but also the catalyst does well in itself in those live situations in its own ways.. Thanks again for putting in the time and effort to demonstrate the difference in qualities, this vid has been quite helpful in presenting a comparison that could help later if I should decide to go for something more FRFR for the pod go, or the next improvement in speaker and cab tech. I wonder- would thise wee 4ohm exciter speakers attached to foam panels work with a guitar amp! Been watching some vids on those tiny speakers that attached directly to foam panels where the exciter directly vibrates the panel and is very inexpensive, they could double as reverberation dampener when not in use and while recording in studio and maybe work as a 360 or adjacent wall speaker set up if there's a way to link them to the guitar, they reach gigging levels over 90/100 dB. Interesting stuff!
Can you make a definitive guide on the Line 6 Pod Go into the Catalyst? I have done 4 cable method and I still end up not able to shunt the Catalyst presets. Is 4 cable best way? Am I missing something. Help kind sir!
I'd like your thoughts on which one sounds the most like the signal you sound to the front of house or most like the tones you dialed in through studio monitors. My goal is to find something that gives me as true of a reference to what I dial in as possible in a live situation. I haven't found some FRFR's don't do that very well. Thanks for your input and for taking the time to do these videos.
To me, the Powercab sounded WAY better, but I feel like that's because of the directional sound. I have the base powercab and it works pretty well in FRFR mode for me. Might pick up a Catalyst for 1/2 price used. Other than that deal, I can't see getting one.
John, I just figured out a cool hack you can try on your PowerCab! I generally prefer the open back cabinets, especially for self-indulgent practice, but mic'd they sound great too. I have been wishing my PowerCab+ had a back panel on it I could remove but sadly it does not. However, both 'kick stands' can be removed creating two nicely size ports. Not the same area as an open back panel but it does reduce the bass and create a more airy sound. A step in the right direction. NOTE: There are already ports on the front in the corners that you will see when you remove the kick stands. Since the Catalyst is cheaper, I will recommend that my non-cab owning Helix friends try it out and compare to the PowerCab before purchasing. I also have the Line6 DT25 that I got as part of the original "dream rig". For one of the channels I have the preamp bypassed running my HX stomp straight into the configurable real tube power section that is also pretty fun and has it's own characteristic (plus it's open back).
I had the whole dream rig. It was nice at the the time, but the Helix stuff is a huge improvement over the HD500. I still have it all, though the Variax part is currently in need of repair. Recently got an FM9 and am really enjoying that, but will not get rid of HX Stomp. You just get so much out of such a tiny box. It’s crazy!
what a nice comparison, thank for this amazing video well done (not scientific as you said...but rigorous) I have one question : do you used the same chain for both ? I mean amp + cab/IR or did you remove the IR or amp for the Catalyst (I mean use a preamp block in your Hx Stomp ?) excuse my English
The IRs in the PowerCab are speaker only, not amp, cab, or mic. You can choose to run no speaker IR and just use the FRFR speaker and power amp. I believe the Catalyst is being used in power amp mode, directly driving the speaker.
Hi John, love the video. Was thinking I want a vid on this exact thing. One question the PC is FRFR and the Catalyst can be the same?? I have a Helix LT and like using different cabs/IRs, is the Catalyst FRFR enough, did you use different cabs sims exact same as the you would the PC?
This is the video I’ve been waiting for! I was sold on PC+ for my helix LT…then they went out of stock at Anderton’s, and guitar guitar is an extra £130. Then catalyst…which is half the price. And I’m thinking I might have just saved myself a small fortune.
I've just got back into playing after a really long time away from guitar and I'm looking for a speaker solution. I'm thinking of maybe a Palmer 1x12 cab loaded with a celestion f12-x200 powered by a Harley Benton GPA-100. Should I go for that or just get a Catalyst 60/100?
There's not a significant difference between the two that would make me think one is much better than the other. They hit different frequencies differently. The catalyst does seem to be a bit tighter and brighter which I liked. It makes sense because you're not using the tweeter. Some of the distortions seems more compressed or crunchier on the catalyst. Around 14:30 in the last clean tone section I think I liked the powercab slightly better, because it had a bit more sparkle with that preset. That section of the video made me realize each preset will react differently. Having a choice I'd go with the catalyst.
Great comparison John. Power cab actually sounded better to my ears, certainly because it is closed at the back. It would be very interesting to close the rear part of the Catalyst with a MDF panel and I'm sure it would sound tighter on the bass and more precise on the mid-highs, very similar to the Power cab.
Thanks for comparing these. I was just looking at both of these for my HX Stomp for playing with friends. I do have a Boss Katana head also that I put into a 4x12 or 1x12 depending sound I'm going for, and obviously the 1x12 for leaving the house. I'd be interested in seeing a Boss Katana MK2 100 combo compared in the same role as both of these as it has a dedicated line in option and a separate effect loop. For these two the overall sound did change as you went through the IRs on the Powercab, but the PC had more clarity overall and more full frequency sound than the Catalyst, which seemed really scooped in the mids. Wonder what a speaker change in the Catalyst would do to get some more mids? Or maybe go into the FX loop and use the EQ to dial in some mids.
Have not tried a Catalyst yet, but I can say as a PowerCab 112 Plus owner, there is no way to relay (via RUclips recording) what it sounds like and mostly, what it feels like in the room. I've got a very nice speaker system on my computer, playing a tube amp through a Torpedo Captor X and it sounds good. But I also send an XLR out of the Captor X to the PowerCab and it's very rewarding. I've sent a wet signal from Captor X to PowerCab with the LF Raw and it sounds good, but I've found that loading that same IR that I have on the Captor X, into the PowerCab and sending a dry signal to it, wow it really sounds noticeably better. To be fair, I suppose tweaking on either end could be done of course.
Very helpful. Ive been thinkin powercab but I feel like they priced them a bit high. I was at Sam Ash today and they showed me I could switch that power mode on the back. Might not need to use 4 cable just to plug in. THAT would be fabulous! And keep the modelers IR’s
When you're in LF Raw, what does the xlr output from the pc send to FoH? I am using an IR in the PC currently and an amp block in the stomp but at a fairly loud backline volume I'm finding my sound gets very honky. I wondered if it was the tweeter?
That old “you don't know what you got till its gone” or “the grass is always greener”. Sold my Powercab and bought a Bassbreaker. Bad mistake. I miss that low end grunt of the Powercab. It was almost as I could feel the air blowing at me. The Fender is not even close. This I may checkout. Great stuff, John
For my personal use case I’m opting to go with the catalyst 200w and use it as an amp but, I know I will also find used for it as a power amp with a multi effects like my HX stomp. For me, though it is just a price thing, I can actually afford a 200W catalyst as opposed to only being able to afford the 1x12 PC non plus.
So in your patches you are not using a cab of any sort, correct. Just running LF Raw on the PC+ and also straight into the Catalyst. Anyway, I though the clean sounds were very close, but other than that I really preferred the Power Cab. I really felt there was a richness in the Power Cab that was missing in the Catalyt. When you went through the speaker sims on the PC I couldn't hear much difference where when in person I can. I'll resit the urge to grab the new shinny penny. But it would be nice to have just an amp functionality at times I guess. Wonder about doing a speaker swap in the Catalyst. Guess someone will try that at some point.
Bit late to this but as an experiment and because it wasn’t mad expensive- I bought a Catalyst and swapped the speaker for the Celestion flat response F12 speaker. I use it with the uadfx Ruby. You can change the speaker cabs on the ruby and use the digital fx on the amp -reverbs and what not. I think it’s pretty wicked. There’s kind of a gap in the market if you want a power amp only amp with a flat speaker and some FX, good for modeller users
@@MikeMckenz yeah it’s big difference. You’re stuck with one speaker sound here but if you go frfr you can try out a massive stack like sound for eg and you can get it- Even tho your speaker is 12”. frfr for a modeller is the way to go I reckon.
If you were buying one or the other today...which would you buy and why? I have a 212 plus on order but can still cancel. I'm a helix user as an fyi. I can't try the catalyst in person unfortunately. This video...they both sound pretty dang good.
I've been waiting for this comparison, as I tend to use my PowerCab in LF Raw mode as well (the odd time in FRFR). Did you prefer one to the other? To me, there were enough similarities from the video that I don't think I need a Catalyst as a poweramp for my Helix, other than as a quick on-the-go rig where I don't want to bring my Helix.
Yeh for me I think I could be happy with either one, I think I'd go for the Catalyst probably in general as it is a bit more of an all rounder? So yeh - if you already have a Powercab, you're golden anyway, but for someone choosing which to buy right now, I think the Catalyst is pretty good value
if you turn off the cab modelling on the Helix and go into a tube amps FX return doesn't that give you the sound that the powercab is trying to give the player? ie sound more like a real amp in the room ? I know you have several speaker models in the powercab, but for someone who likes the sound of their tube amp....and wants to maybe use the Helix and have their amp as the power amp and speaker cab since it has in it a tube power stage & nicely voiced speakers, if you get my drift?
Your guitar playing is so sweet. I agree with your assent the power cab sounds better. I just bought a helix floor finally. I had held off for fear I wouldent be able to use mt 2 Line 6 DT 50 amps which I love. So far the interface works sort of. But there’s no knob control (yet) I haven’t figured it out nor can the helix control my power amp settings. I wish you had 2 DT series amps so I could get your opinion.
The Powercab has way more bass, and sounds full spectrum. The Catalyst sounds like there is a low shelf filter on the bass frequencies. I prefer the Powercab, as it sounds more like an Amp. The Catalyst almost has no bass frequencies. 🤷
Catalyst sounds clearly more natural and open. Powercab sounds middy and kind of dark/muffled with the speaker models. LF Raw is a bit better but still congested in the low mids and not very natural. There's of course more room sound coming form the Catalyst making the sound less present, due to the open back construction, somenthing might or not be a good thing depending on the application. As a side note my PC212 doesn't sound so congested in the lows but is even more middy in LF Raw mode and with the (unusable for me) speaker models. In my opinion the Catalyst is a better alternative to the Powercab unless you need an FRFR speaker. I would have probably bought a Catalyst 200 instead of a PC212 back then.
Yes. This would be a more apples to apples comparison. The recent announcements that tube production has essentially been halted has really propelled me to consider either a Catalyst or Katana with my HX Stomp. I would love to see this comparison.
I am running my Stomp XL into an old home theater amp and large stereo speakers with a subwoofer. It's also my computer USB sound interface. I bought a PowerCab 112+ to use when I go offsite, or at home in front of the TV. I do miss the stereo offsite, but I don't do it enough to justify the cost of another speaker or upgrading to a PowerCab 212.
Just purchased a Powercab and now I'm watching videos because of anxiousness 😂. I think both sound fairly close. The only difference i hear is the frequencies and hp/lp filtering. I think both are great choices if that doesn't bother you much. I don't think your everyday person thinks much of it or can tell the difference if these are being used for performances.
Not much in it, but the Powercab was a little nicer in the bottom end and more present for my ears in this video. For over twice the price though? ($750 vs $1699 in Australia)...yeah I'm not sure it would be worth it for playing at home. I'm really considering two Headrush 109s for stereo, which is around $990 or a standard Powercab, which is like $1190, but I really don't know and I don't have access to test them. It's a tough call, but these videos certainly help a lot.
Listening on a reasonable pair of closed-back headphones, I thought the PC was a lot more open and clear than the Catalyst, which sounded a little boxy. It was like the Catalyst was slightly ‘out of focus’ then the PC nailed it. But this could be, and probably is, a very different experience when you’re there in front of them both. There is such a diverse range of comments that the biggest difference is probably what people are listening to this on.
Definitely more high fidelity on the PC. That's why I bought one. Tempting to buy another for stereo. But I use a cheap home theater rig already, so the PC doesn't get a whole lot of use.
Powercab seems to have more bottom end vs the Catalyst. Guessing the headroom and wattage of the Powercab contributes to this, but even more it's likely the Powercab has a wider frequency range (e.g., full range) that can produce the low end vs the Catalyst with a frequency range for guitar. You could put keys or bass into the Powercab; not so much the Catalyst. You could also add low and high cut EQ to your HX Stomp preset to get them sounding closer. I usually do this on my digital modelers going into FRFR (e.g., 80 Hz and 6500 - 8000 Hz) Just my theories. Cheers!
So I now know after buying a Catalyst that they sound quite muffled until you get some volume going through the speaker. Then everything brightens and clears up. I have run a few effects units through mine and for the price it is a good back up to the power cab or stereo option with it! The catalyst speaker is poor too. I have modded mine so I can run through a cab. Sounds big through a 4x12 and mine is only the 60 watt model.
Cheers Jc.. 2x50w catalyst at close to £500. VS… and as a user of powercab 212 at £1200.. Has the catalyst killed the powercab 212. Still to hear one, didn’t get on with the katana. Hopefully in a guitar shop near me soon.
I prefer the Catalyst by a large margin. The Powercab has still that pushed high midrange in any configuration and has less "sparkle" or real "highs". "Nasal" is the word. The Catalyst sounds more "open". I know why I sold the Powercab (twice)...
An out of the box alternative....I run a Helix through an EV Powered ZLX wedge monitor. Why? Perfect for setting FOH presets, so much more durable, so much more flexible (use as a wedge, put on a pole, use as a backline), tremendously louder and clearer, my Helix sounds consistent not colored, a wedge can also serve as a main for midrange venues, and you can run 2 separate channels one for your Heilx and 1 for your vocals without signal loss, and most of all much (CHEAPER). I returned the 112, and 212, after a few weeks. A powered wedge blows them away in my comparison.
Hey Craig! Yeh in a way I think if you're going down the FRFR route (which I personally am not sure is the way I'd want to go) then a DXR or EV or QSC seems to be a sensible option!
I have the Headrush Pedalboard (modeler similar to the Fractal FM3 or Line 6 Helix), and though the sounds are really good, I've grown pretty tired of playing with headphones. Plus it's not very healthy to play with headphones if you practice frequently like I do. I feel like the catalyst could be a really good solution for home practice and playing. Maybe it doesn't have the flexibility of a Powercab, but it sounds nice and clear, plus the modeler has like infinite customizability anyway.
Katana sounds really boxy. Catalyst isn't as flat of a frequency response. PowerCab is the best FRFR speaker of the 3. If you already have a Helix of some sort, the PowerCab is probably the way to go.
Catalyst sounds, perhaps, a little warmer in the upper mids here. I like it as well and maybe better than the Powercab sound wise. For the price and added functionality I am leaning toward the Catalyst.
I’m listening to the video wearing a pair of AirPod’s. Right now I think I prefer the sound of the Catalyst. The sound is a little more open and retains some of the highs without sounding “tinty.” The powercab sounds good but some of the highs get lost.
With all of these comparison videos the PC+ sounds like I’m inside the auditorium listening to a band and all of the other cabs sound like I’m out in the hallway with the auditorium doors open.
I just picked up a headrush 108 two days ago. I wonder how they compare. I hear about the “amp in the room” effect, but to me, I can’t hear a difference. I also don’t play at high volume at home and I wear ear plugs during loud band practice. Is “amp in the room” a noticeable thing for anyone else?
Yes and no. I ha e found over the years that relying on amp in the room sound is far too hit and miss, as every room is different. Ive preferred a more studio style tone that will (more or less) sound the same to me in any situation. But I get the whole moving the trouser legs thing.
If you disable the cab+mic IR in your modeller, then you can model the speaker at the Powercab and you lose the "miced speaker" sound. I haven't experimented with this yet. But I am told it does make a difference. Certainly changing the mic modeling also changes the tone.
Don't own either ... currently using Nextone+HX Effects. That aside, these do sound a little bit different, but I would think eq tweaking could get you much closer. They both sound pretty good. Seems like it would be hard to go past the value and extra amp utility that the Catalyst brings. I'm still living in hope that Line 6 will put out a simple HX Amps product that does just the HX Amp plus power amp, for use with guitar speaker cab of your own choice.
May just be nitpicky but I just like the look of the powercab better. Those big letters on top of the catalyst cause me to have 90's flashback's. The powercab is nice and streamlined.
I put my Helix LT into the FX loop return of my Bad Cat Cub 15 (with speaker modeling off of course) and never looked back. I got a Helix back when they first came out and tried using it exclusively through various FRFR’s and was never satisfied because you just can’t get an “amp in a room” sound that way. Then Pod Go came out and I got one just for quiet practicing with headphones. One day on a whim I tried it through the fx loop of my Bad Cat and was absolutely floored. 3 months later I was back with the big-boy Helix. FWIW I own or have owned all the high end boutique stuff over the years so my ears aren’t easy to please. This setup just works amazingly well for me. Takeaway- don’t rule out Helix into your fx loop return. Interestingly, although I have speaker modeling turned off, it sounds better with the power section modeling left on, as opposed to a preamp model-only, which on paper would make more sense but it doesn’t…at least with my amp. Another cool thing is that the Bad Cat, being an AC-style amp, has a cut knob that works off of the power section so I can use it as a master eq of sorts for quick on the fly adjustments if I switch guitars or whatever. Very effective setup.
Fascinating to see the range of opinions in the comments, many of them quite opposite. FWIW I prefer the sound of the Powercab in this video by quite a lot - to my ears it sound warmer and more 'natural'.
This is why I love your channel. You’re the only guy on RUclips doing this comparison! I’ve had my eye on the powercab for awhile now, but due to its price tag and its apparent lack of availability in my area, never purchased one let alone got to try one out in the store. Then when I heard about the Catalyst and its power amp in capability, I have been searching RUclips high and low for comparison videos. Nothing til now. I already purchased the Catalyst 60 last week after watching your reviews of it and was thrilled with it, but I still had this nagging question of “Would the powercab have been better?” After watching this video, I’m even more happy that I went with the Catalyst. Thank you!
Yeah I can definitely hear what you were talking about in the intro. The catalyst sounds more in the room because the mic is picking up all the reflections. The powercab sounds more direct. But tonally they both sound so similar. This was the video I was waiting for. Just bought the catalyst. Cheers!
Hi! So one year on, so you still have the Catalyst? How do you find it? Are you running a modeller through it? Thanks!
Differences mainly between open and closed back cabinets i think. Reckon I’ll pick one up, going to be a load better than the 8” Headrush thing I’ve got which makes a noise you could weld with.
The power cab sounded a lot nicer. It’s really awesome that you can do this with the catalyst though
Very helpful video. I like the open sound of the Catalyst. For the money, I can get 2 Catalyst for the price of one Powercab and run stereo rigs for my Kemper and FM3. Thank you John.
The powercab was sounding far better then the Catalyst but when you tapped up the volume slightly on the Catalyst they sounded alot closer. With the powercab the modulations were awesome as well slightly better then the Catalyst. But considering the far cheaper price, an actual amplifier with effects loop and power attenuation I am leaning towards the Catalyst. Thank you so much for your video I never would have thought the Catalyst would even approach the Powercab sonically.
Yeah u agree the master volume made the difference less and more alike definitely alot the do with the closed cab maintaining more control of the lows and low mids a more controlled cabinet on the powercab to allow for better adjustment of the rest of the frequency range upwards.
I bought a powercab 212. i am blown away by this one in comparison to the 112...
The 112 i had was used. Damn... i can't believe how good the 212 sound.
It's expensive but it cost every cents.
The catalyst is an affordable choice and an amp you can use in every situations.
Grettings!
Catalyst sounds pretty good. I’ve had 3 different versions of the Katana and couldn’t gel with it, but the catalyst could be great for a grab and go amp to pair with the Stomp or even by itself.
hey man! im just curious if you ended up getting the Catalyst and how it compares to the katana? cheers mate!
@@gusblacksmith9 I never got it, sorry
Could you maybe do a three-way comparison with the direct signal as well? Both sound good but what you really want is a cab that recreates the sound as accurately as possible and we could judge that best if we had the reference to compare :)
Hay great video. The Catalyst does sound like it not as load as the Powercab and that is most likely he fact that the Catalyst is open backed like you mention. However, disregarding the slight volume difference. The Catalyst "tonally" always sounds like it being chocked down whereas the Powercab sounds like the tone is not being choked. The Powercab is way more open. I have a Helix Floor and the Powercab is definitely the way I am going to go, specialy with the 212 plus model. I don't like the choked sound of the Catalyst at all. Thanks for this video it was extremely helpful.
Man every time I think of a video I want to watch, you make one!
Great comparison! Catalyst easily is better to me. The Powercab doesn’t sound like an amp to me, and is somewhat dark and a bit boomy.
What I would love to see is Catalyst vs equivalent 1x12” Spider mk ii video. I have the Spider V 60 ii, and it’s great.
I tried out the Catalyst the other day and was impressed.. The overdrive tones sounded natural and organic * even at higher volumes .. Much better than the Katana ! The Catalyst is hard to beat at it's price point !
Agreed. I was messing around with one in GC the other day, and the sheer versatility of all of those tones blew me away. Gonna do more research and perhaps get a couple to do W/D/W with.
To me, in the initial hearing, I tend to find the powercab to be tighter, and that it retains more of the tonal characteristics of the helix (I have a helix, so I feel like that makes sense to those of us who have one), whether that be tightness, warmth, pop, punch etc. The catalyst after a while starts to sound better. Perhaps if I didn't hear it immediately next to the powercab I would think it sounded pretty good still. When I hear them together I keep thinking they would make great layers for recording, like one panned left and the other right. Catalyst is thinner and brighter sounding, powercab is tighter, punchier and warmer overall.
Closed vs open
-back cabs.
I love the sound from the Catalyst. Much more than the power cab.
I don't own neither of these. Once again, thank you for this video! I found the low end to be superior on the PC, at least in my headphones (Sennheiser HD 280 pro). I love the fact that the catalyst can be used standalone and is less $$$, but to my ears, the PC sounds fuller. Very helpful comparison!
Powercab seems like it has more "air" or headroom or something letting more frequencies through. The Catalyst seems like its holding the tone down a bit. Neither sound bad, I just feel like the Powercab is doing a better job - the job it's designed to do.
Although some are saying they don’t hear a lot of difference, I very much do. The powercab sounds better to me by a fair amount in this video. I’m quite sure the catalyst can get a good sound with eq tweaks in the helix/whatever modeler you use, and I love that it’s open back, but seeing this video has firmly dispelled any notion I might’ve had to sell my PC112+ to pick up a Catalyst. So, for me at least, the answer to the question of if Line 6 has “killed” the PC with the Catalyst, is a resounding hell no.
The big joke is that can't really hear most of it thru RUclips. But, we keep watching anyways.
@@peterl545 I listen through a pretty good set of speakers and while it's not perfect I can certainly hear differences.
I own both and I agree that (IMHO) the Catalyst is not a competitor for the PC when you hear them both in the room- likewise any ideas I had of selling the PC have been parked after trying them alongside each other
It’s pretty easy for me to hear the difference. I think the PC sounds a bit richer and fuller than the Cat but for many it won’t make any difference.
How can anyone not agree with this ?
Listening on 15 year old computer monitors, the powercab had more the full sound I look for with the the high gain stuff, but Catalyst kept up with the cleaner tones.
It doesn’t sound like you can really go wrong with either!
And you can get two Catalyst 200 watts for less than a a powercab 212, but then you’ll be lugging around 2 amps to get stereo sounds.
Options…
How broken in is/was the Catalyst speaker. I;ll assume the Powercab was well used and fully broken in. Catalyst sounded unbroken in.
Clear difference but using the Catalyst this way is certainly a more than serviceable function.
Truthfully, I’m surprised that the Catalyst did this well against a purpose built piece of gear like the PowerCab.
Thank you John!
The differences are very subtle with a little more clarity to the PC. That being said once you open your set with drums, bass, keys and any other instruments coming in you aren't going to hear those differences. The Catalyst is retailing at $399 USD where the PC+ is $799 USD. Is the PC more than twice as good? I really don't think so. I think John's theory of a closed back cab as opposed to an open one is spot on. You get a much more direct sound from the PC but more room sound from the Catalyst. That could cause the tone shift. Turning up the Catalyst brought the two closer together in tone, by the way. Now, add in the fact that the Catalyst is also a regular amp which means you don't have to break out the Helix or other modeler to practice with (my floor sits in a flight case when not used). Sound goes to PC. Versatility goes to the Catalyst.
Hey. I enjoyed the video. I do have a question, did you use a preamp model or amp model when going into the catalyst? If using the amp model, you were running a the modeled power amp into the power amp of the catalyst which would effect the sound. I run my stomp through the Poweramp input of a Boss katana and had to learn this lesson the hard way. My understanding is that the modeled preamp on the helix doesn't have the power amp modeled and uses the power amp from the real amp.
Love you get your hands on a Harley Benton 1x12 frfr. Know you are a line6 guy, of sorts, but they are (or were)very loud, and only about 160 quid, and sound just superb with the Helix, if only just to show modelling doesn't have to be at all expensive to be extremely effective and lovely sounding, tonally.
They are rugged as hell too.
To think you can buy two, and have a superb rig for the price of one of these Line6 thingies, and just bathe yourself in extremely loud, tonal loveliness..is really quite staggering.
Thanks for this video, John!
Judging from the sound bites in the video:
The Powercab sounds more focused (more 1kHz content) while the Catalyst sounds more open but also a bit fatter - like adding depth and presence simultaniously on an amp.
In a band the Powercab would probably provide more articulation and the Catalyst more the big wall of sound.
Mmm I find this really interesting tbh as I've just got my one today! And at some point soon I want the pod go, would I just configure the hook up the same? Thanks for your upload 👍🙏🐈
Hey friend, everything okay? I follow your work and see that you have many videos of the helix line. In your opinion, in a concert situation, does it sound better on a powercab type frfr or on the return of a tube amplifier like a Marshall dsl 40cr with the ir turned off?
Are you helix IR's when playing through the catalyst? Or are you only using the helix effects, and then using the built in amp modeling with the catalyst? If you're still using the IRs in the Helix, what settings do you recommended on the catalyst to help keep your patches sounding like they did through monitors?
The Power cab sounded better. I like the idea of the speaker modeling occurring in the cabinet and not in the modeler. Seems like the best way to do it.
Why would that make any difference?
@@joeltunnah No mic or cabinet modeling. Sounds more like a speaker in the room.
John, can you use the catalyst in power amp mode and still get the direct signal out of the xlr output to send to for?
For Anyone that wanted to know, I bought a catalyst myself and yes you can use the xlr output to push the direct signal form the xlr output.
Before I sold my katana I used to take my helix and output into the power amp of the katana, which is what your doing with the catalyst. But I only ever did that when playing at home as for live gigs I just went straight into the mixer with the helix and used iem's from the mixer. In the end I got tired of coming home and messing with the katana and sold it to make space. No I no longer play live and just at home I miss it and I am considering a powercab to get that amp in the room feel back. Is the plus really worth it? If I want a custom ir, I am guessing there won't be much difference between loading that on the helix over the powercab plus. And I think I'd be just happy with the built in speaker options.
I have a 100watt catalyst combo, pod go, in comparison with the way you've set them both up for the A/B demonstration my ears tell me I like the power powercab most, mostly because of the more natural setting it was on, and it definitely sounded more defined tighter bass on higher gain than the catalyst I don't use the high gain model on the catalyst, mostly the voxy chime amp and the two variations of clean- clean and dynamic for four cable method, id lean towards the powercab as a better option at higher volumes but put of by the cost.
But definitely something in the closed vs open back cabinets, much more directional when the back us closed off, I have my catalyst on a 30 degree tilt back stand lifting the bottom up off the ground by about 40cm front 30cm at back with sound proofing foam sheets behind to absorb that deflected bass out the open back to try nit piss off the neighbours downstairs too much and capture any reflections so the front is while aiming up at my ears and into the rooms biggest space the sound us more controlled and clearer in my ears.
The powercab sound lovely on that natural setting, a fuller sound more heard across the frequency spectrum, it captures more of the guitars natural dynamics. But I'm not writing off the catalyst just yet, I have still much to explore in the capabilities of what it may be able to do...
Live situation- powercab is a better choice, clearer mid/high mids and the mix between the lo and low mids across the different tones and styles were more defined and projected in a more pronounced voicing. P's and Q's were better trained so to speak! I expect in the mix it woukd stand up rather nicely and not get lost as much as the catalyst but also the catalyst does well in itself in those live situations in its own ways..
Thanks again for putting in the time and effort to demonstrate the difference in qualities, this vid has been quite helpful in presenting a comparison that could help later if I should decide to go for something more FRFR for the pod go, or the next improvement in speaker and cab tech.
I wonder- would thise wee 4ohm exciter speakers attached to foam panels work with a guitar amp! Been watching some vids on those tiny speakers that attached directly to foam panels where the exciter directly vibrates the panel and is very inexpensive, they could double as reverberation dampener when not in use and while recording in studio and maybe work as a 360 or adjacent wall speaker set up if there's a way to link them to the guitar, they reach gigging levels over 90/100 dB. Interesting stuff!
Can you make a definitive guide on the Line 6 Pod Go into the Catalyst? I have done 4 cable method and I still end up not able to shunt the Catalyst presets. Is 4 cable best way? Am I missing something. Help kind sir!
I'd like your thoughts on which one sounds the most like the signal you sound to the front of house or most like the tones you dialed in through studio monitors. My goal is to find something that gives me as true of a reference to what I dial in as possible in a live situation. I haven't found some FRFR's don't do that very well. Thanks for your input and for taking the time to do these videos.
To me, the Powercab sounded WAY better, but I feel like that's because of the directional sound. I have the base powercab and it works pretty well in FRFR mode for me. Might pick up a Catalyst for 1/2 price used. Other than that deal, I can't see getting one.
This may well be the answer for me as my Helix has been giving me issues. This way the Catalyst is a backup that’s ready to go!. Thanks!
Ciao John Nathan....great video! ......so if I use an headrush pedalboard on Catalyst how I have to connect?
John, I just figured out a cool hack you can try on your PowerCab! I generally prefer the open back cabinets, especially for self-indulgent practice, but mic'd they sound great too. I have been wishing my PowerCab+ had a back panel on it I could remove but sadly it does not. However, both 'kick stands' can be removed creating two nicely size ports. Not the same area as an open back panel but it does reduce the bass and create a more airy sound. A step in the right direction. NOTE: There are already ports on the front in the corners that you will see when you remove the kick stands. Since the Catalyst is cheaper, I will recommend that my non-cab owning Helix friends try it out and compare to the PowerCab before purchasing. I also have the Line6 DT25 that I got as part of the original "dream rig". For one of the channels I have the preamp bypassed running my HX stomp straight into the configurable real tube power section that is also pretty fun and has it's own characteristic (plus it's open back).
Do you like the HX Stomp better than " dream rig"? (assuming: Variax, POD HD500 and DT25)
I had the whole dream rig. It was nice at the the time, but the Helix stuff is a huge improvement over the HD500. I still have it all, though the Variax part is currently in need of repair. Recently got an FM9 and am really enjoying that, but will not get rid of HX Stomp. You just get so much out of such a tiny box. It’s crazy!
thank you for doing this! greatly appreciated. question. when using the CATALYST as a Power amp in... do you have to disable the IRs in your modeler?
what a nice comparison, thank for this amazing video well done (not scientific as you said...but rigorous) I have one question : do you used the same chain for both ? I mean amp + cab/IR or did you remove the IR or amp for the Catalyst (I mean use a preamp block in your Hx Stomp ?) excuse my English
I was wondering the same thing.
@@xmistersinisterx :)
The IRs in the PowerCab are speaker only, not amp, cab, or mic. You can choose to run no speaker IR and just use the FRFR speaker and power amp. I believe the Catalyst is being used in power amp mode, directly driving the speaker.
@@JohnShalamskas ok thanks you for the response. I ask here because i wanted to be 100% sure from a regular user a the catalyst
Hi John, love the video. Was thinking I want a vid on this exact thing. One question the PC is FRFR and the Catalyst can be the same??
I have a Helix LT and like using different cabs/IRs, is the Catalyst FRFR enough, did you use different cabs sims exact same as the you would the PC?
the catalyst isn't FRFR, but I don't use the Powercab in FRFR mode either, so it's pretty much equivalent in my use case
@@johnnathancordy thanks. i do like using differnt cabs - so i suppose i'll stick with my PA speakers and desktop monitors :)
This is the video I’ve been waiting for!
I was sold on PC+ for my helix LT…then they went out of stock at Anderton’s, and guitar guitar is an extra £130.
Then catalyst…which is half the price. And I’m thinking I might have just saved myself a small fortune.
I've just got back into playing after a really long time away from guitar and I'm looking for a speaker solution. I'm thinking of maybe a Palmer 1x12 cab loaded with a celestion f12-x200 powered by a Harley Benton GPA-100. Should I go for that or just get a Catalyst 60/100?
There's not a significant difference between the two that would make me think one is much better than the other. They hit different frequencies differently. The catalyst does seem to be a bit tighter and brighter which I liked. It makes sense because you're not using the tweeter.
Some of the distortions seems more compressed or crunchier on the catalyst. Around 14:30 in the last clean tone section I think I liked the powercab slightly better, because it had a bit more sparkle with that preset. That section of the video made me realize each preset will react differently.
Having a choice I'd go with the catalyst.
Great comparison John. Power cab actually sounded better to my ears, certainly because it is closed at the back. It would be very interesting to close the rear part of the Catalyst with a MDF panel and I'm sure it would sound tighter on the bass and more precise on the mid-highs, very similar to the Power cab.
Thanks for comparing these. I was just looking at both of these for my HX Stomp for playing with friends. I do have a Boss Katana head also that I put into a 4x12 or 1x12 depending sound I'm going for, and obviously the 1x12 for leaving the house. I'd be interested in seeing a Boss Katana MK2 100 combo compared in the same role as both of these as it has a dedicated line in option and a separate effect loop. For these two the overall sound did change as you went through the IRs on the Powercab, but the PC had more clarity overall and more full frequency sound than the Catalyst, which seemed really scooped in the mids. Wonder what a speaker change in the Catalyst would do to get some more mids? Or maybe go into the FX loop and use the EQ to dial in some mids.
Have not tried a Catalyst yet, but I can say as a PowerCab 112 Plus owner, there is no way to relay (via RUclips recording) what it sounds like and mostly, what it feels like in the room. I've got a very nice speaker system on my computer, playing a tube amp through a Torpedo Captor X and it sounds good. But I also send an XLR out of the Captor X to the PowerCab and it's very rewarding. I've sent a wet signal from Captor X to PowerCab with the LF Raw and it sounds good, but I've found that loading that same IR that I have on the Captor X, into the PowerCab and sending a dry signal to it, wow it really sounds noticeably better. To be fair, I suppose tweaking on either end could be done of course.
Very helpful. Ive been thinkin powercab but I feel like they priced them a bit high. I was at Sam Ash today and they showed me I could switch that power mode on the back. Might not need to use 4 cable just to plug in. THAT would be fabulous! And keep the modelers IR’s
When you're in LF Raw, what does the xlr output from the pc send to FoH? I am using an IR in the PC currently and an amp block in the stomp but at a fairly loud backline volume I'm finding my sound gets very honky. I wondered if it was the tweeter?
That old “you don't know what you got till its gone” or “the grass is always greener”. Sold my Powercab and bought a Bassbreaker. Bad mistake. I miss that low end grunt of the Powercab. It was almost as I could feel the air blowing at me. The Fender is not even close.
This I may checkout. Great stuff, John
Ha, I've been sitting here with a Bassbreaker, looking at the powercab+ for my new helix xl.
i owned a powercab, not the plus version, really enjoy the video. powercab is more functional selection, espacial the mic simulation function.
For my personal use case I’m opting to go with the catalyst 200w and use it as an amp but, I know I will also find used for it as a power amp with a multi effects like my HX stomp. For me, though it is just a price thing, I can actually afford a 200W catalyst as opposed to only being able to afford the 1x12 PC non plus.
And to be clear I would get the FRFR if I could because i prefer the sound in person.
So in your patches you are not using a cab of any sort, correct. Just running LF Raw on the PC+ and also straight into the Catalyst. Anyway, I though the clean sounds were very close, but other than that I really preferred the Power Cab. I really felt there was a richness in the Power Cab that was missing in the Catalyt. When you went through the speaker sims on the PC I couldn't hear much difference where when in person I can. I'll resit the urge to grab the new shinny penny. But it would be nice to have just an amp functionality at times I guess. Wonder about doing a speaker swap in the Catalyst. Guess someone will try that at some point.
Bit late to this but as an experiment and because it wasn’t mad expensive- I bought a Catalyst and swapped the speaker for the Celestion flat response F12 speaker. I use it with the uadfx Ruby. You can change the speaker cabs on the ruby and use the digital fx on the amp -reverbs and what not. I think it’s pretty wicked. There’s kind of a gap in the market if you want a power amp only amp with a flat speaker and some FX, good for modeller users
Did you notice much difference with the speaker switch to frfr? Thanks
@@MikeMckenz yeah it’s big difference. You’re stuck with one speaker sound here but if you go frfr you can try out a massive stack like sound for eg and you can get it- Even tho your speaker is 12”. frfr for a modeller is the way to go I reckon.
@@angelesk9382 Thanks a lot, appreciate you taking the time to reply. Think I'll give it a go 😊
If you were buying one or the other today...which would you buy and why? I have a 212 plus on order but can still cancel. I'm a helix user as an fyi. I can't try the catalyst in person unfortunately. This video...they both sound pretty dang good.
If you can afford it, the 212 is definitely nice to have for stereo. You can also choose different speaker models for left and right channels.
I've been waiting for this comparison, as I tend to use my PowerCab in LF Raw mode as well (the odd time in FRFR). Did you prefer one to the other? To me, there were enough similarities from the video that I don't think I need a Catalyst as a poweramp for my Helix, other than as a quick on-the-go rig where I don't want to bring my Helix.
Yeh for me I think I could be happy with either one, I think I'd go for the Catalyst probably in general as it is a bit more of an all rounder?
So yeh - if you already have a Powercab, you're golden anyway, but for someone choosing which to buy right now, I think the Catalyst is pretty good value
if you turn off the cab modelling on the Helix and go into a tube amps FX return doesn't that give you the sound that the powercab is trying to give the player? ie sound more like a real amp in the room ? I know you have several speaker models in the powercab, but for someone who likes the sound of their tube amp....and wants to maybe use the Helix and have their amp as the power amp and speaker cab since it has in it a tube power stage & nicely voiced speakers, if you get my drift?
Your guitar playing is so sweet. I agree with your assent the power cab sounds better. I just bought a helix floor finally. I had held off for fear I wouldent be able to use mt 2 Line 6 DT 50 amps which I love. So far the interface works sort of. But there’s no knob control (yet) I haven’t figured it out nor can the helix control my power amp settings. I wish you had 2 DT series amps so I could get your opinion.
I like the powercab better...it has the chug and ummfff I'm looking for! Sounds great!
The Powercab has way more bass, and sounds full spectrum. The Catalyst sounds like there is a low shelf filter on the bass frequencies. I prefer the Powercab, as it sounds more like an Amp. The Catalyst almost has no bass frequencies. 🤷
Catalyst sounds clearly more natural and open. Powercab sounds middy and kind of dark/muffled with the speaker models. LF Raw is a bit better but still congested in the low mids and not very natural. There's of course more room sound coming form the Catalyst making the sound less present, due to the open back construction, somenthing might or not be a good thing depending on the application. As a side note my PC212 doesn't sound so congested in the lows but is even more middy in LF Raw mode and with the (unusable for me) speaker models. In my opinion the Catalyst is a better alternative to the Powercab unless you need an FRFR speaker. I would have probably bought a Catalyst 200 instead of a PC212 back then.
It's a damn tough call but I think like the powercab a tad more. But would be super happy with either! Still struggling away with a headrush lol
Would be interesting to compare the catalyst power amp to the katana power amp with a modeler.
Yes. This would be a more apples to apples comparison. The recent announcements that tube production has essentially been halted has really propelled me to consider either a Catalyst or Katana with my HX Stomp. I would love to see this comparison.
I'd love to know what speakers you would recommend for using the helix in the bedroom practice setting. I'm sick of playing wearing headphones lol
I am running my Stomp XL into an old home theater amp and large stereo speakers with a subwoofer. It's also my computer USB sound interface. I bought a PowerCab 112+ to use when I go offsite, or at home in front of the TV. I do miss the stereo offsite, but I don't do it enough to justify the cost of another speaker or upgrading to a PowerCab 212.
@@JohnShalamskas thanks for the reply. I decided to buy cheap studio monitors and it sounds great
Just purchased a Powercab and now I'm watching videos because of anxiousness 😂. I think both sound fairly close. The only difference i hear is the frequencies and hp/lp filtering. I think both are great choices if that doesn't bother you much. I don't think your everyday person thinks much of it or can tell the difference if these are being used for performances.
Thanks a lot, this is the video i was looking for! Btw apparently the boss katana can be used as a power amp as well
Powercab sounds a bit squishy to me. Something that would be hard to dial out. Much prefer the Catalyst. Awesome video, brother!
Not much in it, but the Powercab was a little nicer in the bottom end and more present for my ears in this video. For over twice the price though? ($750 vs $1699 in Australia)...yeah I'm not sure it would be worth it for playing at home. I'm really considering two Headrush 109s for stereo, which is around $990 or a standard Powercab, which is like $1190, but I really don't know and I don't have access to test them. It's a tough call, but these videos certainly help a lot.
Listening on a reasonable pair of closed-back headphones, I thought the PC was a lot more open and clear than the Catalyst, which sounded a little boxy. It was like the Catalyst was slightly ‘out of focus’ then the PC nailed it. But this could be, and probably is, a very different experience when you’re there in front of them both. There is such a diverse range of comments that the biggest difference is probably what people are listening to this on.
Definitely more high fidelity on the PC. That's why I bought one. Tempting to buy another for stereo. But I use a cheap home theater rig already, so the PC doesn't get a whole lot of use.
Great video, sadness of it it’s that only me and the people who play guitar will come to hear the difference in sound, but I still care about my tone.
Powercab seems to have more bottom end vs the Catalyst. Guessing the headroom and wattage of the Powercab contributes to this, but even more it's likely the Powercab has a wider frequency range (e.g., full range) that can produce the low end vs the Catalyst with a frequency range for guitar.
You could put keys or bass into the Powercab; not so much the Catalyst.
You could also add low and high cut EQ to your HX Stomp preset to get them sounding closer. I usually do this on my digital modelers going into FRFR (e.g., 80 Hz and 6500 - 8000 Hz)
Just my theories. Cheers!
Thank you for this. Powercab all the way!
So I now know after buying a Catalyst that they sound quite muffled until you get some volume going through the speaker. Then everything brightens and clears up. I have run a few effects units through mine and for the price it is a good back up to the power cab or stereo option with it! The catalyst speaker is poor too. I have modded mine so I can run through a cab. Sounds big through a 4x12 and mine is only the 60 watt model.
I think the catalyst sounds better personally. It's not as ice picky sounding sounds more Amp like to me. Probably cause it's an Amp lol
Can I ask you something. Power cab with helix LT can be used at home playing?. I'm a metal guy seeking for satisfactory metal tones to play at home
I’d like to know how the boosts on the catalyst stack with pedals and overdrives in hx stomp.
Cheers Jc.. 2x50w catalyst at close to £500. VS… and as a user of powercab 212 at £1200.. Has the catalyst killed the powercab 212.
Still to hear one, didn’t get on with the katana. Hopefully in a guitar shop near me soon.
I prefer the Catalyst by a large margin. The Powercab has still that pushed high midrange in any configuration and has less "sparkle" or real "highs". "Nasal" is the word. The Catalyst sounds more "open". I know why I sold the Powercab (twice)...
An out of the box alternative....I run a Helix through an EV Powered ZLX wedge monitor. Why? Perfect for setting FOH presets, so much more durable, so much more flexible (use as a wedge, put on a pole, use as a backline), tremendously louder and clearer, my Helix sounds consistent not colored, a wedge can also serve as a main for midrange venues, and you can run 2 separate channels one for your Heilx and 1 for your vocals without signal loss, and most of all much (CHEAPER). I returned the 112, and 212, after a few weeks. A powered wedge blows them away in my comparison.
Hey Craig! Yeh in a way I think if you're going down the FRFR route (which I personally am not sure is the way I'd want to go) then a DXR or EV or QSC seems to be a sensible option!
Thinking of getting powercab mainly fir its stereo image, is this possible with catalyst
Do you mean the Powercab 212? Catalyst can't do that nope!
@@johnnathancordy ahh ok bummer, powercab sounds pretty awesome ..but price 😬 amazing video always amazing playing and fantastic tips apprciate you JC
I have the Headrush Pedalboard (modeler similar to the Fractal FM3 or Line 6 Helix), and though the sounds are really good, I've grown pretty tired of playing with headphones. Plus it's not very healthy to play with headphones if you practice frequently like I do. I feel like the catalyst could be a really good solution for home practice and playing. Maybe it doesn't have the flexibility of a Powercab, but it sounds nice and clear, plus the modeler has like infinite customizability anyway.
The powercab seemed much fuller to me. The catalyst sounded a little washed out, but not bad overall. Thanks for the comparison.
The power amp imput on the Katana has its own eq I’m guessing the Catalyst would have too?
Katana sounds really boxy. Catalyst isn't as flat of a frequency response. PowerCab is the best FRFR speaker of the 3. If you already have a Helix of some sort, the PowerCab is probably the way to go.
Loves your reviews
Catalyst sounds, perhaps, a little warmer in the upper mids here. I like it as well and maybe better than the Powercab sound wise. For the price and added functionality I am leaning toward the Catalyst.
I’m listening to the video wearing a pair of AirPod’s. Right now I think I prefer the sound of the Catalyst. The sound is a little more open and retains some of the highs without sounding “tinty.” The powercab sounds good but some of the highs get lost.
John disabled the tweeter on the PowerCab. Maybe he shouldn't have. I left mine turned on.
For the price difference its an easy choice to go witj the catalyst. Plus it works as a stand alone amp
Power cab is way WAAAAYYYYY overpriced
The Powercab definitely has some sort of weird beaminess or phasing issue. I believe that the big difference here is closed versus open back cabinets.
Phase "issues": Proudly massaging your sound since the first closed cab was invented.
I had the two. The catalyst sound surprisingly good and more "open", more natural to my ears.
With all of these comparison videos the PC+ sounds like I’m inside the auditorium listening to a band and all of the other cabs sound like I’m out in the hallway with the auditorium doors open.
Great review....... everyone who owns a power cab is probably thinking about a catalyst purchase!
Not me.
I think the Powercab does sound better, but could the difference be between having a closed back vs. an open back? Anyone's thoughts????
The Powercab has more Power and the Catalyst has more Cata
SCIENCE
@@johnnathancordy Quick maths
I'm a physics teacher so I'm going to need a graph of this!
Good information thanks 🙏
I just picked up a headrush 108 two days ago. I wonder how they compare. I hear about the “amp in the room” effect, but to me, I can’t hear a difference. I also don’t play at high volume at home and I wear ear plugs during loud band practice. Is “amp in the room” a noticeable thing for anyone else?
Yes and no. I ha e found over the years that relying on amp in the room sound is far too hit and miss, as every room is different. Ive preferred a more studio style tone that will (more or less) sound the same to me in any situation. But I get the whole moving the trouser legs thing.
If you disable the cab+mic IR in your modeller, then you can model the speaker at the Powercab and you lose the "miced speaker" sound. I haven't experimented with this yet. But I am told it does make a difference. Certainly changing the mic modeling also changes the tone.
Don't own either ... currently using Nextone+HX Effects. That aside, these do sound a little bit different, but I would think eq tweaking could get you much closer. They both sound pretty good. Seems like it would be hard to go past the value and extra amp utility that the Catalyst brings. I'm still living in hope that Line 6 will put out a simple HX Amps product that does just the HX Amp plus power amp, for use with guitar speaker cab of your own choice.
The good thing about the catalyst is it is using hx level tones and effects like the pod go having helix, the difference is connectability
May just be nitpicky but I just like the look of the powercab better. Those big letters on top of the catalyst cause me to have 90's flashback's. The powercab is nice and streamlined.
Agreed, it will be the 1st thing they change when Mk 11 comes out. Looks rank
Reminds me of a semi truck.
I put my Helix LT into the FX loop return of my Bad Cat Cub 15 (with speaker modeling off of course) and never looked back. I got a Helix back when they first came out and tried using it exclusively through various FRFR’s and was never satisfied because you just can’t get an “amp in a room” sound that way. Then Pod Go came out and I got one just for quiet practicing with headphones. One day on a whim I tried it through the fx loop of my Bad Cat and was absolutely floored. 3 months later I was back with the big-boy Helix. FWIW I own or have owned all the high end boutique stuff over the years so my ears aren’t easy to please. This setup just works amazingly well for me.
Takeaway- don’t rule out Helix into your fx loop return. Interestingly, although I have speaker modeling turned off, it sounds better with the power section modeling left on, as opposed to a preamp model-only, which on paper would make more sense but it doesn’t…at least with my amp. Another cool thing is that the Bad Cat, being an AC-style amp, has a cut knob that works off of the power section so I can use it as a master eq of sorts for quick on the fly adjustments if I switch guitars or whatever. Very effective setup.