THE GAME CHANGER FOR GUITAR AMPS? // Neural DSP Quad Cortex (vs kemper)

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  • Опубликовано: 24 июл 2024
  • The Quad Cortex from Neural DSP. I want to love it. Can I? Should I? Here's things I like, things I don't like, and everything in between.
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    0:00 Intro
    1:32 Overview
    2:00 Preset from scratch
    3:33 My favorite feature!
    4:28 The onboard FX and routings
    6:34 Scene mode, dropouts
    7:54 Two British sounds & Stomp mode
    10:03 Output & presets misery
    12:15 Two things I'm missing
    14:03 KEMPER VS QUAD VS REAL AMPS
    19:00 My opinion
    21:24 Quad Cortex or Kemper?
    Hi, my name is Paul Davids! I am a guitar player, teacher, producer, and overall music enthusiast from the Netherlands! I try to inspire people from all over the world with my videos, here on RUclips.
    If you want to know more about me, check out PaulDavidsGuitar.com or check out my guitar courses at: learnpracticeplay.com and nextlevelplaying.com
    Thank you for watching!
    Paul
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Комментарии • 1,8 тыс.

  • @PaulDavids
    @PaulDavids  3 года назад +370

    *Update: I should've mentioned the firmware is still in Beta at the moment.*
    The dropouts between presets will still be there on final release. Apparently its inherent to having a routing this flexible, but I was told they would be significantly less in the final release.
    In live scenarios using Scene Mode or Stomp mode is the way to go; although this limits you to having everything for the song on that one preset. Also doing something spontaneous which might need a preset change will always result to a dropout. I know it also happens on the Helix (not on Kemper tho), but maybe one might expect of a 'new generation' of modelers to switch presets without any audio dropouts... Maybe not. I just think it's worth mentioning.
    I would love to hear/see/read your thoughts! Would you ever consider getting one? Please share :)

    • @p_mouse8676
      @p_mouse8676 3 года назад +45

      I have always the same issue with these things.
      I just get overwhelmed by the amount of options and possibilities.
      Result is that I keep fussing instead of playing.

    • @tungtobak
      @tungtobak 3 года назад +6

      I appreciate your honest opinion and that it wasn't all roses although you probably recieved a review unit. I wouldn't buy one NOW anyway, as I'm currently in the process of setting up ALL my 50+ pedals, pre-amps etc, availible through old school patchbays. Like the 70s version of an Axe fx. Takes up half a room, four patchbays and seven shelves though... But I like to keep myself informed on more modern solutions. Not satisfied with how digital dirt sounds... yet. It lacks the danger.

    • @RupesMcDGuitar
      @RupesMcDGuitar 3 года назад +32

      Neural captured the amps better than the kemper for me. Particularly the Matchless.

    • @kerninger
      @kerninger 3 года назад +14

      Nope. This thing obviously is not ready to ship. I stay with my Fractal stuff 👍

    • @aquaticborealis4877
      @aquaticborealis4877 3 года назад +3

      Have you looked at something like the Mod Duo X? It veers off into synth territory, but maybe has some powerful features you could use.

  • @MarcoMontero
    @MarcoMontero 3 года назад +435

    Best review from the QC I’ve seen so far, you put hype out the equation and showed us a real opinion.
    Massive respect for that.

    • @angarcm23
      @angarcm23 3 года назад +7

      Rhett Shull’s was quality too, if you haven’t seen it

    • @robertjones9598
      @robertjones9598 3 года назад +3

      Seconded! It's nice to hear about any limitations at all. First video I've seen voicing them.

    • @missinbrain
      @missinbrain 3 года назад +5

      Yes, this and Rhett Shull’s were both constructive criticism. I mean, how are Neural going to improve if they don’t get quality and meaningful feedback like this?
      I actually already pre-ordered a quad Cortex because I have faith that it will continue to improve. But I agree with Paul that that is not necessarily the best way to purchase gear, and unlike most of the other videos on RUclips, this gave me a more honest expectation of what I can expect to see once it finally arrives.

    • @robertjones9598
      @robertjones9598 3 года назад +9

      @@missinbrain 95% of the QC videos on RUclips are clearly a massive marketing campaign. There's always some amazing new product or plug-in on the horizon to lust after. I feel I was bitten by all the BIAS hype a few years back. The Nolly plug-in is decent enough for a hobbyist like me so I'm definitely not buying the QC. But it's interesting to watch all the RUclips channels I follow blow up about it! I'm going to stick to my existing toys to make tracks. I can see how this bit of kit might be essential for the professional guitarist though.

    • @roryt1983
      @roryt1983 3 года назад +1

      The review is misleading in places, especially regarding the drop out when changing presets.

  • @omgmatt4025
    @omgmatt4025 3 года назад +609

    Entered the video: I need a Quad Cortex
    Left the video: I need a Tone King Imperial

    • @slambrobro4662
      @slambrobro4662 3 года назад +4

      true)))

    • @realgoodmind
      @realgoodmind 3 года назад +10

      It really is the best. It is a deluxe on roids. Then you can make it be a tweed all the way to almost plexi sounds. It does everything an amp needs to. I love it.

    • @VoxTone2009
      @VoxTone2009 3 года назад +4

      You are probably better off with a Sky King instead. There are two separate attenuator settings, one for each channel and you can better handle the volume on both channels when switching channels on same song. It also is a little more flexible and powerful. To me it sounded better than the Imperial, although a little more expensive. The Neural sound great though. Playing live on smaller places it probably actually sound better than the amp for the audience since you can dial it in better and feed it through the PA which disperses the sound better than your amp alone which is very directional. You could also dial in the sound at home on the Imperial/Sky King or any other amp or pedal and then store that response in the Neural when playing out live on smaller spaces. Beats bending over and fiddle with the pedal knobs and the amp knobs between songs when playing live.

    • @levous2
      @levous2 3 года назад

      No kidding!

    • @notalkguitarampplug-insrev784
      @notalkguitarampplug-insrev784 3 года назад +2

      Same here. In 20 years your real will worth money ;)

  • @zach5500
    @zach5500 2 года назад +26

    I can't wait to get one of these. As a home hobby player who just wants a bunch of extremely accurate tone profiles for tons of different artists and songs and the occasional cover recording there's nothing better. It's a no brainer this thing is worth every penny IMO.

  • @glenndavid8725
    @glenndavid8725 3 года назад +1390

    The real game changer is twenty years of practice.

    • @markdennis6464
      @markdennis6464 3 года назад +26

      ....and a decent valve amp! IMHO - just saying!

    • @glenndavid8725
      @glenndavid8725 3 года назад +9

      @@markdennis6464 what's a valve!?

    • @Liccarus
      @Liccarus 3 года назад +12

      @@markdennis6464 Damn is that what they did after HL2

    • @anthonycosta2662
      @anthonycosta2662 3 года назад

      Truth!!

    • @markdennis6464
      @markdennis6464 3 года назад +3

      @@adamdevo7179 I'm just an 'old guy - who loves the old tech' - or I'm just not converted yet!

  • @beatsmithaudio9245
    @beatsmithaudio9245 3 года назад +184

    Put Paul on the official neural team for the workflow. This man’s got all the troubleshooting done already!

    • @jcomm120
      @jcomm120 3 года назад +3

      Yea, he does a very fine job at this♡!

  • @mingury
    @mingury 3 года назад +4

    This is by far the best review on Quad Cortex in my opinion, without a pressure for mindlessly endorsing it. Thank you very much for your honest insight.

  • @litotesone
    @litotesone 3 года назад +2

    Your passion is inspiring and infectious. Thank you for sharing with the rest of us and those on journey to realize our best passions.

  • @heinrichthiessen
    @heinrichthiessen 3 года назад +16

    With all that praise, I've seen and heard yet, I was glad to see a review from you. Thank you, for your honest opinion!

  • @RC32Smiths01
    @RC32Smiths01 3 года назад +111

    Just from the start, that lick sounded extremely tasteful across all the units. Very great and detailed showcase.

  • @miitchmitchell
    @miitchmitchell 3 года назад +1

    By far the best review I have seen so far, honest and fair. Thank you.

  • @dwftube
    @dwftube 3 года назад +277

    At last a critical review. Everyone else is going goo goo ga ga over this thing and not pointing out it's weak spots. Great job Paul! (Edit - Thanks Matto for pointing out that Rhett Schull also has reservations. I hadn't seen his video when I made this comment.)

    • @mattjns
      @mattjns 3 года назад +18

      Rhett’s was similar to this.

    • @JayTheLane
      @JayTheLane 3 года назад +1

      A few say the effects aren't as top quality as they could be.

    • @drdre4397
      @drdre4397 3 года назад +5

      @@mattjns Rhett I find always does great honest gear reviews.

    • @dwftube
      @dwftube 3 года назад

      @@mattjns Yes fair play I hadn't caught up with that one when I made the comment, but I have now and he explicitly states that the QC trails Kemper and Helix when it comes to effects.

    • @frankmchale2877
      @frankmchale2877 3 года назад +6

      Seems like yet another multi effects geared towards the high gainers ( who don’t seem to have a bad word to say about it). But if your a ‘traditional’ tone chaser then it all seems a bit of a faff. Seems to be the same sketch with Line 6 ( I hated my HX Stomp), Factual and the likes. 🤷🏻‍♂️ What a refreshing overview. Makes a change from a lot of the other YT influencers 🤔

  • @skarfie123
    @skarfie123 3 года назад +4

    Superb review! You properly examined the current drawbacks in the UI. I love how specific you were. I hope the UI Devs see this!

  • @PhiLikeFlying
    @PhiLikeFlying 3 года назад +4

    Finely a real and honest review - think i'll hold off purchasing and wait and see if they work on your negative points.

  • @Aku-kh5qy
    @Aku-kh5qy 3 года назад +1

    Thanks again, Paul. Your matchless just sounds incredible. It really compliments your playing.

  • @JustinShreds
    @JustinShreds 3 года назад +24

    Killer review! Neural should be watching and making notes - nothing is ever perfect but this thing is pretty damn sweet regardless. Looking forward to receiving mine 🙌🏼

  • @missinbrain
    @missinbrain 3 года назад +10

    I really appreciate that you addressed things that you liked and did not. I hope they are listening to some of your suggestions.

  • @mathieupelletier4392
    @mathieupelletier4392 3 года назад +17

    The sound quality of the cortex is amazing next to the Kemper. Thanks for the review Paul. For your information, you should use Scenes to switch between sound and not presets. The switch will be seemless.

  • @andresgarib1945
    @andresgarib1945 3 года назад +1

    This is one of the best reviews i've seen of this product. Thank you Paul for your amazing work!

  • @Goldensword18
    @Goldensword18 3 года назад

    Best QC review out there. Hands down. Appreciated.
    I have been waiting for months for a real review. Keep it up. I had seen your videos many times, but after this you gained a subscriber

  • @GraniteSoundtrack
    @GraniteSoundtrack 3 года назад +43

    Wow! This video just made me realize how great real amps sound! The Matchless and Toneking were amazing.

    • @2010njdevil
      @2010njdevil 2 года назад +4

      Agreed and I've used the Kemper and Quad Cortex. In a live setting, there are similarities but when you move into specialized effects, and there are a ton of the, there is no comparison: Real amp + Effectcs(examples: Keeley Monterey, Catalinbread Echorec, Catalinbread Adineko, J. Rockett Blue Note, JHS Bonsai, Vertex SSS, Ventris, Strymon Blue Sky, Neunaber reverb units, etc.....). This is why the pedal market is as strong as ever.

    • @clapsting
      @clapsting 2 года назад +3

      I have a Two Rock Studio Signature and a small pedalboard ( polytune , Tumnus , TS9 , Blues Driver ,Qtron , Aqua Puss and Flint Strymon ) , nothing can beat that . lol

    • @2010njdevil
      @2010njdevil Год назад

      @@ItsMeBarnaby Agreed but market competition reflects the enhancements to the circuitry of pedals and the dynamics of an expanding amp market. Players hear it and the healthy sales numbers reflect.....so healthy in fact the PRS has now put a foot in the pedal arena. Manufacturers make what the players like....and are buying. Not magic, but reality.

  • @Returnality
    @Returnality 3 года назад +9

    This is the first time I have ever listened to a digital unit and not been able to tell that it's digital. It sounds SO freaking natural. That said, though, some of the bugs here are just unacceptable for something at this price point. I'll wait to see if they patch them out before I consider saving up for something like this. Killer review!

  • @isaacjohnson.
    @isaacjohnson. 3 года назад +1

    Very fair review. Appreciated hearing your opinion on the pluses and minuses of the Quad Cortex. With any of our gear there is always advantages and disadvantages and I feel you presented a god honest take for your situation.

  • @user-we3ef9xx5u
    @user-we3ef9xx5u 3 месяца назад

    Paul, I love the atmosphere in your videos! Thank you for that you're doing

  • @sketchstuffs
    @sketchstuffs 3 года назад +4

    This is a perfect review telling neural dsp what to add in future updates. Most of these suggestions I hope to see in the future from ndsp.

  • @baimun
    @baimun 3 года назад +3

    Thank you for this detailed comparison of not only the sounds but the practical user experience. I didn’t jump into the Kemper/Fractal/Helix/etc world for a long time because I hate tweaking every last detail... choose this speaker, this mic, this grill cloth... If it needs adjustment, Yes, but otherwise I should be able to turn the knob and rip. Once the Kemper was sorted out with better reverbs, quality captures from Michael Britt, and the floorboard interface with morphing, I jumped on it and improved my gigging experience. I will keep my eye on the Quad Cortex as patches and updates are released, but for now I will consider it an “at home/studio Beta release” instead of gig ready.

  • @anthanth3805
    @anthanth3805 3 года назад

    Thank you Paul. Easily the most informative review I've seen on the Quad Cortex. Great work.

  • @CharfishDesign
    @CharfishDesign 3 года назад +2

    Love this objective review. Gonna be waiting a while to see how the QC updates as time goes on. Appreciate it, Paul!

  • @camreese1444
    @camreese1444 3 года назад +72

    Two years ago, I chose to invest in an amp and a pedalboard. There are limitations. It’s heavy. It’s more expensive. But with the time I’ve spent learning that one rig, I’m less into finding tones from eye glaringly endless options, a/b’ing endlessly, and tweaking presets all night, to instead using what my rig does best, creating a signature tone that nobody else has, and - most importantly - playing, practicing and writing more! Haven’t looked back since

    • @thomasglenn8867
      @thomasglenn8867 2 года назад +3

      Amen

    • @MBEG89
      @MBEG89 2 года назад +11

      Thats not what this is for. These are designed for pro touring musicians who cant carry 10 different amps every show. Now you dont need a rig from 3 albums ago to sound like that, you just load it up and play.

    • @Hassan-Alnajjar
      @Hassan-Alnajjar 2 года назад +3

      Nah, eventually you have to go back to the pedal board.

  • @ianbrown1474
    @ianbrown1474 3 года назад +25

    an honest review - PD does a great job as usual ...

    • @Vreth6
      @Vreth6 3 года назад +4

      First review of QC that feels honest and not like a paid commercial. Big props

    • @Sasaki22
      @Sasaki22 3 года назад

      @@Vreth6 Yeah, very critic review with great points and even better recommandations for additional features

  • @Nutty663rd
    @Nutty663rd Год назад

    A fantastic and honest review, from someone who knows what they're talking about and how gear should sound. Thank you so much!

  • @joshb6384
    @joshb6384 3 года назад

    Sounds great coming out of both. That’s because you’re a phenomenal player, and an inspiration for us all. Keep up the good work dude

  • @MattKellyMusic
    @MattKellyMusic 3 года назад +44

    Awesome job as normal Paul! Love how you demonstrated this. You really balance the pro's and con's very well! You made my decision with buying this a lot easier, cheers!

    • @charlesfryer9127
      @charlesfryer9127 3 года назад +2

      Will you be buying one?

    • @MattKellyMusic
      @MattKellyMusic 3 года назад +3

      @@charlesfryer9127 at the moment, I do not think so. I think it is great, but for the things I’d use it for, it isn’t worth it for me! Hope that helps man

  • @sketchstuffs
    @sketchstuffs 3 года назад +3

    So after watching this video, and others, I decided to pre-order one. I got it about a month ago and I am actually blown away by it. I see what people complain about, lack of effects, ui oddities, etc etc, but even with the flaws it is a ridiculously good sounding unit.
    You can either spend 2 minutes loading up an amazing sounding preset, or spend an hour tweaking it and routing eq's and effects in cool ways and it will sound even better.
    IMO it is the no question the best out there compared to earlier releases of fractal or line6 or kempers. And comparing to their current firmware's, the QC holds its own with more pro's than con's.
    Can't wait to see how this thing develops over the years!

  • @vintagecharlie5969
    @vintagecharlie5969 3 года назад

    Paul, thanks for the informative video and the very honest review/opinion on the products - much appreciate that approach. You demonstrated the differences between real amps and the digital products really well. My impression is that both struggle with low-gain / edge of break-up tones. With the pedals the differences were much less dramatic.

  • @eddieduarte
    @eddieduarte 3 года назад

    Thank you so much for your sincere comments Paul. Your are completely right about all of interface issues man. Your were spot on. I hope they use your tips to fix up that stuff

  • @loopie007
    @loopie007 3 года назад +4

    Watched the whole video and have to agree 100%. Looks like it has good potential. It would also be great if it had a "Convolution Reverb" block that had preset reverbs and installable IR's for the Convolution engine. The tone matching really gives the other modeler manufacturers a feature they will have to think hard about.

    • @Terrysoddy
      @Terrysoddy Год назад

      Yea it could use some updating on some things, but for what it cost, it shouldn’t need anything done to it you know. Just chiming in, lol

  • @therangersinger
    @therangersinger 3 года назад +96

    At least this was the first REAL review instead of "it's the greatest thing ever" kind of video.

    • @squarefrog
      @squarefrog 3 года назад +6

      Why are reviewers so worried about pointing out what they don’t like? Paul does a great job here suggesting options for making the experience better!

    • @guitartube5822
      @guitartube5822 3 года назад +5

      I think Rhett Shull did a pretty good job with an honest review, if you’re looking for more. I agree with you, and I want to know what it really is about before dropping major duckets

    • @CerealDust-nStuff
      @CerealDust-nStuff 3 года назад +4

      Rhett Schull's review was pretty in-depth and he said he was didn't think the effects part of it was up to par. He posted that a few days ago.

    • @wildmilne
      @wildmilne 3 года назад +4

      @@guitartube5822 this one almost perfect. Could detect a bit of annoyance at the manufacturer from how they responded to him. Other than that he points out a lot of issues, praises the best parts and points out a bunch of way to actually improve it. They should have sent it to him a year ago instead of yes men. To be fair, Kemper took 7 years or so to get good reverbs and delays.

    • @guitartube5822
      @guitartube5822 3 года назад +1

      @@wildmilne I’m admittedly still making my way through this review in between some work stuff haha. But Paul David’s is a good guy and will do a good job

  • @mgammill
    @mgammill 3 года назад +1

    best video i’ve seen on this unit.... i’ve had a kemper for a few years and play it every sunday at church. sounds amazing but the interface def can’t hang w the neural. i like how you are straight forward and honest with your review! great job

  • @martijn260571
    @martijn260571 3 года назад

    Paul, ik ben blij dat je deze review hebt gedaan. Heel eerlijk en oprecht. Dank daarvoor, het is iets wat ik vaak mis van andere reviewers. Helemaal top 👊🏻

  • @FatMattOutdoors
    @FatMattOutdoors 3 года назад +16

    Best review yet..... with real opportunities discussed....

    • @rickmassey1272
      @rickmassey1272 3 года назад +1

      Opportunity to wish you hadn't spent $1600 bucks on this...
      It's not worth it.

    • @rickmassey1272
      @rickmassey1272 3 года назад +1

      Sir, you must not have been very busy the day you did this review.. Because, frankly you could have turned on the unit, talked about the convenience of the control knobs, played a chord or two MENTIONED THE PRICE ,and ended the video... Anyone who would pay $1,600 for this thing has more money than talent.

  • @barbasbandas6665
    @barbasbandas6665 3 года назад +10

    You sound like an engineer adressing the problems. Good job

  • @danielworks
    @danielworks 3 года назад +2

    You made the most honest review of this thing. Raised some really good points and not just praising your new toy

  • @JoaoReiMusic
    @JoaoReiMusic 3 года назад

    Amazing review, as usual Paul!
    Very enlightening and fun to watch!
    Thank you very much for your content!

  • @jadonsvd
    @jadonsvd 3 года назад +8

    I hope Neural watches this and takes some notes. Great video!

  • @markadams70
    @markadams70 3 года назад +13

    I thought the amps sounded best, then the QC then the Kemper. The QC profiles were amazingly close. Thanks for making this video. I hope Neural implements some of your suggestions.

  • @waynejames2014
    @waynejames2014 3 года назад +2

    Thanks Paul, that was a very informative video. I use Helix but never use the distortions as my ears tell me that real pedals into the front are more responsive and clearer, maybe placebo but to me the most important feature of these units is the quality of their amp simulation and IR capabilities, seems like they all throw in loads of FX blocks to make it an all-in one solution but the distortions, reverbs and delays fall short. Any comparison you do always leaves me feeling that the real amp has the edge. Have a great day!

  • @paulhunt9375
    @paulhunt9375 3 года назад

    Most informative review I've seen thus far - Great Job !

  • @dustinmbox
    @dustinmbox 3 года назад +19

    Man I feel like the “profiling” from the quad cortext sounds clearer and better to my ears than the kemper. But that may have been just the profiling. The kemper had more gain and more low mids, slightly woofy. It really stands out on the matchless sample.
    *edit* just finished the video, and Paul says the same thing. Lol. I’m not taking crazy pills.

    • @kimseniorb
      @kimseniorb 3 года назад +2

      still sounds pretty boring and lifeless. the qc I mean

    • @coryspotts
      @coryspotts 3 года назад +1

      100% agree. The gain/clarity on the QC are much closer to the actual amp.

    • @bikexxxtube9058
      @bikexxxtube9058 3 года назад +1

      i mean the kemper literally has a parameter named Clarity :o) But im also surprised by the difference the profile had.. When I profiled stuff I could never tell any difference

  • @requietus
    @requietus 3 года назад +3

    by far the best QC review I've seen so far. Got really tired of all those wheedling salesmen... They all sound great, what's there to doubt, but UI and useability is what matters

  • @Spider2029
    @Spider2029 3 года назад +1

    Thanks for the video Paul, really enjoyed the walk-through; I especially appreciated the highlights on the missing points, which are quite useful in my opinion to whoever is watching the video within the idea of getting one of these.
    It reminded me of when I started comparing the AXE-FX and the Helix, almost 3 years ago. The Helix was relatively young at the time and the AXE-FX III was in pre-order, if I'm not wrong.
    Anyway, finally last year I pulled the trigger and went for Helix: honestly, I couldn't be happier. In the meanwhile, Line6 addressed a lot of issues Helix had when I started looking at it.
    So, TL:DR; maybe the QC is the new outsider, we'll see. For now, considering your review and few other things I've read around, to me still looks like a promising project, but we're not 'just there'... yet.
    Best!

  • @BasementGAS
    @BasementGAS 3 года назад

    Really good Paul. I have been watching non-stop videos and reviews on the Cortex and I love that you picked out things to improve on. Constructive criticism and you did it very well. Thanks for this. Hopefully the guys from Neural will pick up on this.

  • @stefanfelssner
    @stefanfelssner 3 года назад +41

    with high gain the differences dissapear, but i'm shocked how much better the "real amp" sounded in the lower "edge of breakup" gain setting

    • @christopherfelser
      @christopherfelser 3 года назад +3

      This is why tubes.

    • @richardlecomte6839
      @richardlecomte6839 3 года назад +14

      You get a modeling amp and it fools you until you put it next to a real tube amp and you hear the truth.

    • @dillondriskill6403
      @dillondriskill6403 3 года назад +2

      Modelers have been great at high gain (for the most part), and clean, but something about that transition to overdrive is just so hard to model. nothing sounds quite like the real thing

    • @Jimmyjames738
      @Jimmyjames738 3 года назад

      Yeah same. Tech companies are destroying the world.

    • @iurigrang
      @iurigrang 3 года назад +2

      Ah, yes, the good and old “modeling amps are good with some tones, but where they really fail is *insert tone I’m most familiar with*”.
      The metal community is plagued by the same kind of thinking, but with high gain being where you really hear the difference. Really makes you think, uh?

  • @jennekke
    @jennekke 3 года назад +6

    I just can’t see myself playing with this live as an effects unit. Maybe if you have a couple guitarists with their own pedal boards you could do 2 inputs in and have their own outputs. 1 amp model setup for 2 guitarists would be sweet.

  • @klauschamberlain7600
    @klauschamberlain7600 3 года назад +2

    I know this is a little unrelated, but that lick at the beginning was some absolutley heavenly
    magic

  • @eddiejuarez
    @eddiejuarez 3 года назад

    Nice!! Your playing is waaaayyy better than i remember.. glad to hear you doin' it!!

  • @ItsNotaTuhmah
    @ItsNotaTuhmah 3 года назад +16

    The QC definitely needs some refining on the interface but the Capture on it is incredible!

  • @rabbamonkey
    @rabbamonkey 3 года назад +12

    Great balanced review, definitely a level headed assessment compared to other (paid promotion) reviews so far. This has helped me decide as I am mainly a bedroom player just starting to get my head around home recording and profilers etc. Cheers.

    • @guizmobro
      @guizmobro 3 года назад

      honestly, check out the UA Ox with a tube amp. After years of using digital tools, this was a revelation for me.

    • @HeadbangoO
      @HeadbangoO 3 года назад

      Ikr, how dare the paid youtubers play with the great reverbs and multiple fx of the Neural catalog when they could just put the one that does "boing"...

    • @rabbamonkey
      @rabbamonkey 3 года назад

      @@HeadbangoO Are you ok?

    • @rabbamonkey
      @rabbamonkey 3 года назад

      @@guizmobro Cheers I’ll check it out - but why is everything I look at it is over £1000! Ffs lol

    • @guizmobro
      @guizmobro 3 года назад +1

      @@rabbamonkey I know how you feel!!! The Ox cost more than my amp. But it was definitely worth it. And I dare say that the price of the digital tools is also justified when you consider everything you get.

  • @slimturnpike
    @slimturnpike 3 года назад

    Good, fair review, and appreciate the restraint and discernment in your opinions.

  • @2204as
    @2204as 3 года назад

    Thanks for that review and the honest opinions. Great points on the things to improve. Nothing that would keep me away, but good to know! I'm very impressed by the sounds, esp. what you described as clarity. To my personal taste, I love esp. those "frequencies". Very impressed for a V1 software!

  • @dickjonesify
    @dickjonesify 3 года назад +3

    Man you have so many great ideas. I hope they listen!

  • @ericwg73
    @ericwg73 3 года назад +3

    Neural should have paid you to review the DSP QC earlier on in their design cycle. The way you approached is was methodical, yet practical, and very thorough. The “issues” you pointed out, some more egregious than others, were all legit and I am quite certain, if fixed, would be appreciated by 99.9% of users. Thank you for the through review and comparison.
    BTW, I completely agree in both instances, the original amp was the hands down winner. Win I heard the Kemper’s version I thought the exact same thing...it added more gain than was naturally present. If I heard you correctly, you actually dialed it down some to make it more realistic which makes me wonder how much worse it was from the start. While I own a Kemper and think it is amazing, I wish they would have employed digital pots in the design so that it could be mated to an iPad or tablet to release more in-depth control. I wonder if Kemper has something like this in the works.

  • @AndGuitar
    @AndGuitar 3 года назад +1

    A very honest review! Thanks for pros and cons!

  • @8KilgoreTrout4
    @8KilgoreTrout4 Год назад

    I have a brainy buddy and you guys sound almost identical when explaining stuff. I love people who know their stuff and can convey their knowledge!

  • @brunoweber5107
    @brunoweber5107 3 года назад +48

    Basically, the amp sounds like the amp, the QC has slightly more high frequencies, while the Kemper has a bit more bottom end. Honestly, I feel this is so close that a bit of EQ on any unit will make it sounds like the other one and vice versa.
    Being a Kemper owner, I can't say that soundwise the QC is any better or worse. It is a matter of EQ and taste. The QC interface is million years ahead of the Kemper; but that's not really important for me. I wouldn't sell the Kemper for it, but if I didn't have the Kemper I would surely put the QC into the equation.
    Something is missing in the video though, which to me made the biggest difference when I compared the Helix to the Kemper: how does it feel, in the hands?

    • @jasonalexander5253
      @jasonalexander5253 3 года назад

      @Bruno Weber yes, how did it feel-great question.

    • @caprise-music6722
      @caprise-music6722 3 года назад +5

      He said it felt great. Good quality aluminium etc

    • @brunoweber5107
      @brunoweber5107 3 года назад +2

      @@caprise-music6722 not the physical things, more "how does your guitar feeling through it"

    • @jeffneiman4635
      @jeffneiman4635 3 года назад +7

      Basically, when the AxeFxII, Helix, and Kemper came out we reached the point where there are marginal differences between high-end modeling units. Additionally, once they're in a mix it's nearly impossible to tell a difference. Finally, put all the units through the same IR and there's almost no chance a listener can tell any difference.
      Buy a proper modeler and just play!

    • @felipealonso8409
      @felipealonso8409 3 года назад +1

      Those QC higher frequencies makes it sound less thicker than what the original is.

  • @Vside78
    @Vside78 3 года назад +3

    Some really really good ideas for the software! I hop Neural DSP watching your video :) For me amps tone are way better on QC than Kemper. Very nice work! Thank you Paul !

  • @jeremythornton433
    @jeremythornton433 3 года назад

    Best review yet. Love the honesty!

  • @dennis5571
    @dennis5571 3 года назад

    Great review! Love your tips for improving the usability 👍🏻

  • @teagenbinder948
    @teagenbinder948 3 года назад +8

    Noice! I got your Next Level Playing course! Really helping!

  • @MintyBitesBack
    @MintyBitesBack 3 года назад +7

    Good review. I was really excited by this but it looks like it’s still in beta mode for now.
    Think I’ll stick with Helix for another year or so and see how it progresses...

  • @Profane0035
    @Profane0035 3 года назад

    I love how honest this review is man ! Sticking with my Helix for now ! especially 'cause the effects on the helix are so amazing. for me atleast

  • @jonathanbush1936
    @jonathanbush1936 3 года назад

    Nicely done. I especially loved the tune and tone from 17:15 to 17:47...beautiful.

  • @billylindsay5712
    @billylindsay5712 3 года назад +8

    I'm switching to the quad cortex, great demo, this backed up what I had already thought and I have already listed my Kemper and remote.

    • @kcussrebutuemos4815
      @kcussrebutuemos4815 3 года назад

      Well it’s been delayed again so you may want to wait.

    • @billylindsay5712
      @billylindsay5712 3 года назад

      @@kcussrebutuemos4815 Decision already made, the Kemper is listed and will go when it sells. Delays are what we deal with in the time of covid.

  • @francescoideo9330
    @francescoideo9330 3 года назад +39

    I remember your first test comparing Kemper to a real amp and the tones were extremely close, I'm a bit confused here because your Matchless Kemper profile sounded way too gainy compared to the real amp

    • @PH-Oliveira
      @PH-Oliveira 3 года назад +9

      because now, he is sponsored by QC... it's a matter of business :(

    • @francescoideo9330
      @francescoideo9330 3 года назад +1

      I mean, QC sounds awesome but you know, you can say that it sounds awesome without starting to consider kemper an useless piece of garbage

    • @slimturnpike
      @slimturnpike 3 года назад

      @@PH-Oliveira Sponsored? Maybe a comp.

  • @breakingnewground1
    @breakingnewground1 3 года назад

    Probably the best review so far. Good job!

  • @dkhsnyder
    @dkhsnyder 3 года назад

    GAH! Came here for the Quad Cortex and fell in love with that NOVO! So sweet sounding!

  • @mbalmer59
    @mbalmer59 3 года назад +4

    I was torn between a Kemper and The Quad Cortex. Nice you are showing us how it works right away rather then all the great tones. Rather have less the hassle right now and looks like i will be ordering my kemper.

    • @oooogieazgolf
      @oooogieazgolf 3 года назад

      I'll be selling my 3 month old stage. Are you interested?

    • @mbalmer59
      @mbalmer59 3 года назад

      @@oooogieazgolf I want to get the Rack not the stage sorry.

    • @algorithm007ify
      @algorithm007ify Год назад

      Kemper has a better ecosystem....the Kone/Kabinet, inbuilt power amps, larger selection of profiles, etc

  • @Skygge.
    @Skygge. 3 года назад +211

    "Never buy something based on promised software updates" - I guess you don't have the Cyberpunk 2077 (yet)? :D

    • @saywhat9158
      @saywhat9158 3 года назад

      You mean, never buy based on promised release features if you are using CyberPunk as an example as you simply have no idea of the level and quality of updates that they will eventually provide at this point and if Witcher is an indicator, your example will make your point look dumb.

    • @digitalchris6681
      @digitalchris6681 3 года назад

      I sold my Kemper after waiting patiently for 6 years for them to release the editor, only to find it was not worth the wait.
      Never again.....

    • @jklmopqtstuvwxyz5349
      @jklmopqtstuvwxyz5349 3 года назад

      @@digitalchris6681 the one thing which is too late to update is the tiny window. And as I said all of them need help from real pedals. Except 2. The Yamaha 100hd double modeler and the Iridium.

    • @digitalchris6681
      @digitalchris6681 3 года назад

      @@jklmopqtstuvwxyz5349 that tiny mono screen was useless - hence why I was so desperate for the computer-based editor.

    • @lerandommusic8109
      @lerandommusic8109 3 года назад

      Lol! This hits hard fam. “F”

  • @GabiLotcu
    @GabiLotcu 3 года назад

    Thank you so much for this demo. This is what i was expecting to hear about. I will stay with my ax8 and few neural plugins.

  • @JLebowski357
    @JLebowski357 3 года назад

    Thank you for being honest about some features you didn't like. Great work on showcasing the differences as well. Oh, and your playing is always tasteful no matter what you run that guitar through! Cheers!

  • @mistermoan5693
    @mistermoan5693 3 года назад +4

    This might be better than my Kemper (and probably is). But that does not make my Kemper worse. Still love it and I hope that every next piece of gear means progression. Not Quad Core, not Kemper, but progression and still being able to enjoy what you've got. As for your review. Honest and great! Thanks! Useful for the Neural team too.

    • @algorithm007ify
      @algorithm007ify Год назад +1

      Kemper has a better ecosystem....the Kone/Kabinet, inbuilt power amps, larger selection of profiles, better effects, etc.

  • @sirriffsalot4158
    @sirriffsalot4158 3 года назад +35

    This just made me wanna get a Tone King, lol...

    • @hootowl6354
      @hootowl6354 3 года назад +2

      And Tone Kings don't have a maze of menus to piss your way through.

  • @itsamemario4
    @itsamemario4 2 года назад

    This is the absolute best review video I've ever seen of any piece of gear

  • @hyperbolekid
    @hyperbolekid 3 года назад

    Amazing objective comparison video. I truly enjoyed your style.

  • @alternativestudio9807
    @alternativestudio9807 3 года назад +3

    Does the dual amp makes a difference Vs the kemper ...?
    also that “little annoying compression” that you feel as a player playing the kemper , how are as your fingers feel playing the quad cortex ? Cheers and thanks for the review !

    • @michaeltaylors2456
      @michaeltaylors2456 3 года назад

      Annoying comment derailment warning : nothing but perfection and tube goodness when talking about feel under your fingers with the reasonably priced Blugguitar AMP 1 no profiling ability however

  • @stephaniegomez0328
    @stephaniegomez0328 3 года назад +3

    Paul, have you tried pairing the Neural DSP with external pedals?

  • @josselinbeaumont1100
    @josselinbeaumont1100 3 года назад

    Your fingers and your guitar are magical. Thanks for your videos,

  • @schlo9358
    @schlo9358 3 года назад +2

    thanks for your review with pros and cons! it is not an sellout vid

  • @freefallin0531
    @freefallin0531 3 года назад +20

    I'm keeping my Kemper, but want to try Quad Cortex for sure.

    • @remy333
      @remy333 3 года назад +3

      Keep the Kemper 100%. It still sounds more real. This small form factor is neat, but if you record regularly and need it to sound pro, stick with your Kemper for sure.

    • @OlliAlexander
      @OlliAlexander 3 года назад +3

      @@remy333 I'm personally going for QC for the same reason (and other reasons too), it sounds a bit more real to me. But it seems both unit have theirs own strengths really. If I already owned a Kemper I'd probably just keep it

  • @StockportJambo
    @StockportJambo 3 года назад +38

    As a poor person, I'm looking forward to seeing a plethora of Kempers flood the s/h market over the next couple of years as the Quadcortex improves & gains traction. Might actually get a chance at owning one.

    • @moskitoh2651
      @moskitoh2651 3 года назад +6

      I hoped for 7 years for a cheap used Kemper... it was never there! Final I bought a new unit.
      Still good luck for you!

    • @Joel_Powell
      @Joel_Powell 3 года назад +3

      I'd personally not drop my Kemper for this. I don't think you'll see others dropping them either - not at a bargain price anyway.

    • @moskitoh2651
      @moskitoh2651 3 года назад +2

      Well, if it gets flooded, I'll buy a second unit!

    • @fretboardrunner
      @fretboardrunner 3 года назад +2

      To be honest: I think the very cheap modelers are already there. Of course they are nowhere near a Kemper or a Line6 Helix, but the Ampero and Mooer GE250 are a godsend for budget-constrained people who just want to record.
      Imo they get 80-90% close to the "big" modelers and in a mix that's definitely close enough. To think of the features and different tones you can get for under $400 right now is insane when compared to 20 years ago.

    • @moskitoh2651
      @moskitoh2651 3 года назад +2

      @@fretboardrunner Also with the Pod Go you are already in a budget domain and get the Helix modelling...

  • @frankgreco
    @frankgreco 3 года назад

    Thank you for the honest review Paul.

  • @78tag
    @78tag 3 года назад

    Great feature - stomp switches that are also control knobs!
    Yes- all presets should be re-writable and deletable.
    The approach to the screen controls is very similar to the Helix and I find that fun so this unit looks like it wouldn't require a steep learning curve.
    I have no experience with profilers -excellent review. Thanks

  • @ShaighJosephson
    @ShaighJosephson 3 года назад +6

    Love the profiling, modeling, and routing capabilities...but the menu-diving interface and no software control is a deal-breaker for me...

  • @jamesryan1939
    @jamesryan1939 3 года назад +3

    Guitar rolled back ay 18 minutes, reason I will continue to use a tube amp. I have never used a modeling device that is able to mimic those dynamics.

  • @gibsondude07ify
    @gibsondude07ify 3 года назад

    Absolutely best review I've seen anywhere

  • @hamiltonmackenzie3340
    @hamiltonmackenzie3340 3 года назад

    Thanks for a superb review - I’ll wait before considering any purchase

  • @liedjaeger
    @liedjaeger 3 года назад +9

    Your review made me hold muy bucks for a little longer... I´ll go broke later. Thanks, best honest review so far.

  • @jcout25
    @jcout25 3 года назад +7

    I'll keep my kemper however I was thinking about buying one of these for my dog...

  • @laurentfargues8113
    @laurentfargues8113 3 года назад +1

    First honest review I hear ;) thanks

  • @jesseshookman8502
    @jesseshookman8502 3 года назад

    Thanks for the honest review Paul. Agreed the interface and effects need some work, but the amp modeling/profiling is super promising. I love the Neural DSP plug-ins, so the potential of the Quad Cortex is really exciting for the future!