AxeFx II vs The Real Deal - an honest shootout.

[@Daddyfatclaps]

my favorite..."i know there are some great sound guys out there....they are not gonna be working at the club your gigging at." Golden advice right there.

[@brianjones8432]

The thing is, it has nothing to do with the Fractal...... If the sound guy is shit, then he's not going to do your boutique amp and cab, mic'd with a 57 any more justice than he will the direct signal he's getting from an Axe FX. It was a pretty pointless thing to bring up. And if it comes to on stage monitoring, you can always pipe the extra output of the Fractal to a cab on stage. And yes, good sound men come and go in bars as well. Everyone has to start somewhere. :)

[@adammanwill7834]

@@brianjones8432 this is so true. You can have a super nice tube amp and still not hear yourself on stage and sound like crap through FOH if the sound guy is bad. This guy in the video has a HARD bias and it shows.

[@alancosens]

I just learned today that Metallica has been using Axe Effects for their live shows, with solid state rack-mounted power amps, since 2013. I was quite astounded.

[@clownpocket]

I bought a Fractal and a Matrix amp after seeing that video. Awesome rig. So much to learn and dial in, but so versatile.

[@Dewitt-b8n]

Less freight cost hauling big rigs. Still less saturation imo

[@justinTime077]

Yeah less awesome lively tone too. Look at their old potato-recordings vs now and the old ones sound so much better. That is a shame.

[@mrcoatsworth429]

Dave Murray from Iron Maiden has started using AxFX this year. But still uses the Marshall power amp for his on-stage cab.

[@guyfromfl]

Their patches have obviously been created with a studio engineer but they are certainly not nearly as organic as they used to be. Especially the shrill "kill em all patch" with nothing below 200hz.. the mids are also way too harsh.. while their patches are better than stock axefx iii files they don't hold up to that old boogie tone James used to have.

[@crazybadcuber]

Good video. I recently bought an Axe FX 2, a good power amp and I already had my Orange 4x12 cab. I have my Orange Rockerverb 50 head still, but honestly the sim for this amp in the Axe Fx literally sounds the same. You're also right, the axe fx is expensive. I bought the Axe Fx 2, the foot controller, 2 fractal expressions pedals, a Matrix Power amp, Power conditioner, Rack Tuner, and Clydesdale cases for my rack gear and a live in case for my cab. YES!!! It's expensive... but now i have hundreds of tones instead of one head. That's what I like about it.

[@DefOfDopeProductions]

CrazyBadCuber Do you want a cookie?

[@crazybadcuber]

Cheo Samad Look everybody, another internet person who hates it when people are proud of what they have worked for!

[@DefOfDopeProductions]

CrazyBadCuber Do you want me to quote you with links? LOL.

[@DefOfDopeProductions]

CrazyBadCuber Point proven. Asshat.

[@PabloThaGreat]

this thread rules

[@jamesshaffer9501]

I was digging this till the running direct speech. My band has been using my fractal and an hd500 live direct forever and 99% of the sound guys love it. If they cant dial in a direct produced signal they surely can't dial in a cab.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

Just speaking from my own experience.

[@jamesshaffer9501]

I had the same thoughts that you mentioned when we decided to drop the cabs. Ultimately I found that even when I was playing with a killer live rig most sound guys wouldn't dial it in for shit anyway. If there is one thing that I do miss however it's the live ambiance of having your gear onstage. You never quite get over having an amp screaming up your ass. On the flip side, my rig weighs about 40lbs now! BTW you dialed in the Axe well!!

[@joelcprice]

Matt Shaffer From my own experience of gigging on an Axe FX II for over a year, even with a FRFR monitor, I couldn't hear myself well on stage next to the bass player and drummer. I've used it on all sorts of PA's (including a JBL line array system) with engineers of various skill levels. It never sounded as good as a tube amp. Nor was it ever as clear in a live mix. Worse, it didn't have the responsiveness to pick attack that I'm used to. Granted, the amp that I used for a long time before it was a Budda Superdrive 45 half stack. That amp slays. I miss it. I sold the Axe FX II and got another head and cab. A. I spent too much time twisting knobs to find an inspiring tone. And 2. I wasn't satisfied with its live performance. I'm now very happy with my Fortin designed Randall.

[@radbot1]

Matt Shaffer HD500 is a beast.

[@WTC1022]

Matt Shaffer at first I missed the backline, but now the way I run my rig is DI out to FOH and then second output to a cab onstage. Both guitarists and bassist have a rack on the side of the stage that holds all our gear and we still have a pretty good sized backline with two mesa cabs, an svt 8x10 and a dummy svt. It's a lot to haul around, but it allows us to have the best studio tone and still have an amp to our back. To Fully clean up the rig, we are switching to in ear monitor systems and will leave little to the sound guy's responsibility. Makes it easy on everyone!

[@coopercarter]

There are plennnnnnty of gigging guitarists getting great tone at shitty bars all over the place just by plugging the Axe-Fx in. And you're *dead wrong* about the "deer in the headlights" look with sound guys. If you'd ever gigged with the Axe-Fx, you'd know that almost 100% of the time, the sound guy is thankful he doesn't have to mic, and if he hasn't seen a Fractal before, is impressed with the tones and ends up asking a dozen questions about the unit after the show. But actually being accurate about sound guys' reactions to the unit would require you to have used it at gigs around any sound guys.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

I'm speaking from experience. Obviously we're going to different shows, or more than likely, you're a a live sound engineer. Perhaps you can handle an AxeFX. Congratulations. Could you please show some of the guys around my town how to do it?

[@keeganjones1576]

Just make sure your sound guy isn't a noob. I can't speak for everyone though. I just saw Erimha play in Detroit, the lead guitarist used an Axe Fx 2. Needless to say it was the the worst tone I have ever heard, and for a signed band, that is embarrassing. I will take the convenience and familiarity of my 6505+ and 6534+.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

Keegan Jones Funny, I live in Windsor, right across the river. We have the same problem. So do some of the larger Toronto clubs.

[@prototypep4]

***** Mate I've been to a Northlane show where the vocals were coming through fucking studio monitors at the back of the stage. Bad sound guys are bad at EVERYTHING. Eventually the regulars took over the soundboard and Northlane let us all use their Mackies as the main speakers. The show was noticeably better after that. A digital rig is as good as you program it to be. Don't trust the sound guys? EDUCATE THEM! For fucks sake learn a bit of audio and sound stage abilities yourself. It's not rocket science.

[@mitchell2719]

SpectreSoundStudios I don't remember which band it was, but at the Red Dog in Peterborough, the sound guy did exactly that. He was just looking around blankly for a good 10 minutes before the guitarist decided to borrow the next band's 6505. What is it about sound guys in this area?!

[@pokopiko1942]

GUITAR TROLLSCIENCE: STEP 1) purchase a Line 6 POD HD STEP 2) get some Axe Fx amp samples STEP 3) simulate with your POD the Axe Fx tones STEP 4) enjoy simulating the simulator! PROBLEM SOLVED! 2000$ SAVED!

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

lol

[@pokopiko1942]

SpectreSoundStudios yeah i know...i already did that! XD

[@pokopiko1942]

btw the Axe has some very cool features and the deeeeep editing that Pod doesnt offer...all in all they are both DIGITAL simulators but Axe is a ''bit'' overvalued

[@jopestv1063]

Line 6 is for tone deaf wannabes

[@Matthew19002]

I like my idea better, get cheap practice amps over years of being a broke closet musician, find out which overdrives you like the best and play with hooking things up that weren't intended.. reverse engineer the circuits and make your own amp head and repurpose a speaker you like the tone of for guitar... I never got this far though because I'm too lazy but the projects are waiting.

[@AleksandrsKarimovs]

"There are great sound guys. But they are not gonna be working at the club your are gigging at". That's enough said )

[@aalavado]

not trying to argue you, just looking to clear my own confusion (im new to modern gear and am testing the waters to buy an axe fx)... but what i gathered is that that comment applies to when you go direct from the axe fx into a pa/mixer using house pa speakers instead of a cab....whereas if you have your own power amp and cab in your rig than you can dial it in yourself and mic your cab for the sound guy to then go through the pa speakers like any other amp/cab setup....is this right?

[@aalavado]

im gonna pput this comment in the general thread too in case i dont get a solid answer thanks my russian friend

[@AleksandrsKarimovs]

@@aalavado Not sure what do I need to clarify, I was just citing the author. You should address him about what he meant to say. However, it seems obvious that most young amateur bands don't play it top clubs, respectively the live sound is shit.

[@321CatDaddy]

@@aalavado most clubs can be well handled with a half or (if you got the cash) full stack, at least in my experience in the early crap hole days. When a place holds at best 50 people, a hundred watt Marshall can handle the job. As a drummer, I weep when I think about how “the sound guy” nightly butchered my Ludwigs. Festivals were another matter entirely because they were hired companies who knew what they were doing.

[@endoffate5475]

Yea but the Ax fx will give you about 1000000 other sound options and the 6505 will give you just 1 very good metal sound and nothing els.

[@michaelwill7811]

Quoted for truth.

[@bravemoonwolf]

You just answered yourself :)

[@BigFatCock0]

Yep I'd rather the 'subpar' (not really) metal tone + all the other amazing tones you can get out of it than blow all my money on a tube amp that I have to keep maintained and does so so much less.

[@LoveRock69]

Not only that but how many of us would be buying something like this as a first or only amp? I already have a cabinet, and two amps I could use as power amp, and imagine most people thinking about dropping a few grand on a box like this are in the same position I am.

[@LoveRock69]

On the other hand I'm not impressed by the sounds. I'd buy an Eleven Rack over this and save for a Kemper.

[@OrlandoAponte]

To my novice ears, the only real amp that noticeably outclassed the AxeFX II was the Mesa Dual Rectifier

[@FATAL1TY481848]

AbsoluteZ3R0 and what about Bogner? The ubershall is one of the best Hi-gain amp boutique out there...

[@OrlandoAponte]

ezaea zeaeazz I just meant out of the amps tested against each other in this video

[@FATAL1TY481848]

ok. Other than that i think the bogner would have outclassed the axe fx too. But it is not really fair to compare digital vs tube..

[@BigMuff75]

ezaea zeaeazz Why not, the manufactureres of sims, modelling amps etc. are actively competing with "real" amps. So they better don't show up with only a pocket knife in a firefight.

[@bernieburnalot]

AbsoluteZ3R0 I totally agree with you. Hard to put a finger on what PRECISELY it adds, but that being said, AxeFX is still pretty impressive.

[@Jesse19405]

you can tell the slight difference in impulse responses. But they are virtually identical and every guitar tone in this video sounds fucking awesome.

[@LanceCampeau]

Great demo Glenn.... My ears told me B, A and the last one was a toss up. I guess its a tie... was not expecting that...

[@alvarg]

amp modelling like this device and all other amp modelling is only beneficial (in my opinion) if you are planning on recording, If you just want play and get a good tone your better off with a real amp (preferably tube amp). I'm aware they are expensive but they are expensive for a reason I've never used any amp modeling anything that i though sounded better than a live cabinet. Besides there a many good cheap tube amps or buy second hand one that isn't in bad shape.

[@modularben7421]

you can get a Mesa mini rectifier and small cab for less than what the Axe FX costs and rock out at home.

[@TheTsunamijuan]

Its been a couple years, any chance of revisiting this due to the huge firmware changes?

[@AlexH4774]

lol Glenn's obviously looking at the script, and it looks like he's slightly cross eyed.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

+Ivan Lunev enjoy your axe-fx!

[@BlueArpeggio.PoDoDan]

DDDDDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMMMMMMMMMMNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN DAT BURN THO

[@Andresmoomoo]

lol i fucking hate when someone puts thought into their video and writes out what to say ahead of time. i was really hoping for a guy rambling and stuttering through an incoherent collection of thoughts.

[@Schizniit]

Andresmoomoo don't think it was a hate comment just an observation

[@phabi0]

SpectreSoundStudios enjoy your little studio and huge ego!

[@ArtHazard]

Is there something difficult in pluging Axe Fx to a soundboard?

[@Mjaquie]

Well actually i think the opposite. The Axe or Kemper are more simple for a sound guy to get a good sound than with a tube amp miced up badly...

[@AsAugustSleeps]

Exactly. I feel like Glenn is an old head sometimes. What's harder, plugging an XLR straight into the AxeFx or picking a mic and mic placement that sounds good with whatever cab you bring?

[@TheDevilsKnot]

Your videos have come a long way, Glenn! Cheers, man!

[@3Dwonders]

not to mention, that 5150 needs a tube replacement from time to time, which costs at least 200 USD; mic positioning is also very important- so easy to get it wrong; transporting your own head and a cab is already a headache or should I say a spineache :)

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

Tell me about it. Took years to learn how to record an amp correctly. However, like playing a guitar, it's a skill worth learning.

[@3Dwonders]

SpectreSoundStudios The worst thing is when you bring your priceless amp to some small venue (you have to admit, that bring in the cab is not always possible- f.e., you've got a gig in a smallpub in 100km from your hometown and only your guitar and amp fits into the car) and there you see (or hear when you plug in) that they've got a really sh**ty cab. It's a common nightmare, I guess.

[@JamesZhan]

I got two right. I notice the Axe always has some kind of fizziness in it. I was totally lost with the kemper one tho.

[@DiminishingAugmentation]

The 5150 tone sounds heavy as fuck.

[@blackfelline2386]

Gojira represent 5150 very well

[@thomasspiegel5202]

@@blackfelline2386 Gojira is gojira, and what makes them crush is Joe's playing style. Just listen to him play any amp, it always sounds like Gojira... yeah the 5150 sounds amazing with them but so did Rectifiers when they used them pre-2008.

[@FlyingBeerman]

Got the first 2 but couldn't tell the difference on the third which was the best emulation of the bunch

[@MitchBakerMusic]

For you're final argument, you're correct if all you need for a show is a rhythm tone. A 5150 will do that with flying colors. But what if you need Fender cleans for a part? Or Marshall crunch? Or Vox crunch? Or Soldano lead? Not to mention effects. If you need many sounds, the Axe FX will pay for itself in no time, plus it's much easier to move. Also, the MFC foot controller isn't required for switching sounds; it has MIDI so you can use a cheaper footswitch like a Voodoo Labs or Tech 21, if you want to. I agree, the MFC is insanely pricey.

[@vadicus]

sounds like your writing process could use some focus haha. ;)

[@TabithaFoxglove]

ZX6R#366 maybe if you're writing verse->chorus->verse->chorus->bridge->chorus->chorus with a specified lead and rhythm guitarist. unmusical metal musicians tend to be far less creative than the pop singers they constantly lament.

[@MitchBakerMusic]

ZX6R#366 A good clean, crunch, rhythm, and lead tone isn't that much to ask for. I probably wouldn't use them all in one SONG, but I could certainly use all of those in a full set.

[@fgc347]

Most typical guitarist need to tune their instrument first, before using various amps in one setup ....hahaha ;-)) Sure, the AxeFx is a bargain if you have the knowledge and purpose of using it in it's full glory. Most musicians don't need 183 amps, +100 cabinets and a truckload of FX-units. Be amazed what you can do with a single amp and some pedals.... PS: I also use an AxeFx in my setup, it works for me - and was a good investment. Should I offended by Glenn's video? Nah....I had a good laugh, he demoing great metal tones, and I agree with him on most parts. Live goes on! Cheers Paco

[@vadicus]

I guess the actual writing is more important in my eyes than the tones. I find a tone i like and stick with it. that's just me tho. If you're venturing into something more proggy then i totally understand. I only speak from a death/techdeath perspective, where many tones MAY not be vital to your process. i feel like if one's writing could stand on its own, then you don't need a multitude of tones, though they may add a great touch if thats your style. I wouldn't knock a guy for knowing what he likes though :]

[@TheSchoenbergAutomat]

It's those palm mutes where you can tell - the Axe Fx is great for touring when you bring a sound guy, but having it die is the absolute worst. I had to plug into a EVH 5150 III for the last two shows of the tour. I fixed and sold my rig, moved to Canada and now am incorporating the 50w version into a new rig. Any suggestions for FX units that are able to produce verbs and synth swells better than Allan Holdsworth/Tits? It's the 1 thing I miss about the Axe-Fx

[@flagmuffin1221]

Bit of, ahh, constructive criticism... The constant glancing down at your script is just fucking cringe-worthy. Not natural at all.

[@EGGJAZZ]

+flagmuffin1221 would never have noticed until you said, really agree with you

[@LoyalBloodband]

+flagmuffin1221 I don't think he's a professional TV presenter so it's OK. "Fucking cringeworthy" is not constructive criticism - it's just crtiticism. Not constructive at all.

[@Escapism7133]

+flagmuffin1221 Only way of him avoiding this is if he did a million jump cuts a minute like most KZbinrs do (which film makers and editors find much more annoying than someone reading a script). Real constructive criticism: he could angle the script above/next to/closer to the camera to make it less obvious that he is reading cue cards.

[@flagmuffin1221]

Loyal Blood So the constructive part was a little sarcastic, shoot me. My point still stands that him looking relatively way down below the camera is extremely distracting from the video. tranquilescapism Your suggestion is what I would have said if I wasn't in whatever mood I was in when I made the comment :P

[@jommonokes9554]

+flagmuffin1221 man, this guy is doing a hell of a good job here on KZbin. Get over it.

[@Anvilshock]

Trying to learn the ropes here: What do you mean with the challenge in providing the monitor mix from an ampsim over providing it from a miked cab? (Aside from the fact that there's no dedicated cab for the guitarist OR the rest of the band to listen to.)

[@TheRomanoLV]

This is seriously the best informative and entertaining channel about Music, I seriously cna't get enough of these videos!

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

Thanks so much! I'll keep making more.

[@TheRomanoLV]

Yes thank you! The quality of all videos are outstanding! Keep up the amazing job!

[@chrisgsauce]

SpectreSoundStudios Yes definitely make more. Cheers from way the fuck up north in Timmins, ON

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

Cheers from way the fuck down south in Flatland ON (Windsor) !

[@gtamoviestudios]

relying on the sound guy?? isn't the process of micing the cab and running it through the PA system the same thing as running a Kemper or AxeFX through the PA system since a Kemper or AxeFX emulates the same micing process?? Please can someone make this clear to me? i'm sorry.....

[@Earsforeyes]

You seriously rule dude. Exactly how I feel about the Axe FX, while it sounds pretty damn good it also is expensive, needs the controller if you wanna use it live. And that sound guy thingy too.

[@ericsilverperson4611]

How will mic'ing a powered speaker sound for an Axe FX II? I admit mine (Alto TS110A) can be irritating in the high notes, but I can dial that out

[@FuukanaTV]

I got all correct with the first try and I know why. Real amp has got more bass respond that unpredictable and less compressed. On the other hand, Axe FX got a tighter more compressed sound and definitely better with extended range instrument such as 9 (or more) strings guitars. Ps. Mesa demo is definitely an easy one to pick because that John Petrucci's sick tone :D

[@DuncanHarbison]

I think it depends on what you want to do with it, if you want to play a gig using the sound of a tubescreamer going into a 5150, buy the tubescreamer and the 5150. The axe-fx is the better option when you have a lot of different effects and tones to switch between during the set.

[@dylan.606]

Pretty sick rhythm playing Glenn! Kind of a mix of painkiller era priest and modern metalcore riffing. Great job!

[@torchlord11]

I have a comment how do you have this set up routed. I noticed that you have the Axe Fx input led meters going through all the samples.

[@BassbaitGG]

Not a big fan of 7 strings. I feel like most people who use 7+ strings use it to mask their inability to write good music. If you want to sound heavy you don't need lower strings you just need good musical dynamics. Pantera wrote tons of heavy riffs in E and D tunings, going all the way down to B or even lower just to achieve "heaviness" feels like a cop-out if you become over-reliant on it. Plus it's kind of a nice cheat for singers too, dropping the key of songs down significantly allows singers to sing in a range that's almost too easy to pull off, whereas if you're singing up in a higher register to match higher tunings you're being pushed to the limit which allows the truly great singers to shine through by proving that they don't need the guitars to be tuned to their comfort zone. But besides that I don't care for the tone of 7+ strings and it gets too muddled to really work. At the very least incorporate some lead work in videos like these, or some more 6th, 5th, even 4th string based riffs, for the people who aren't 7+ string players and would get a clearer idea with something like that.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

...and the first riff was on a 6. What's your point?

[@BassbaitGG]

SpectreSoundStudios didn't even notice lol. Although some lead work would still be appreciated. My point is I just don't like 7 strings. They turn guitarists into bass players.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

Not much of a lead player. :)

[@BassbaitGG]

SpectreSoundStudios ah alright, fair enough.

[@TheGatheringStorms]

All a 7-string is is an extra 4th below the E, which not only gives an extra 5 notes, but also allows for the fretting of chord and arpeggio combinations that would either have to be played open, with a capo, or not at all. I use my high e and my low B equally. Take either one and I feel confined. Also, only bad vocalists "push the limits." I'm a tenor singer, and my highest comfortable note is D5. You can try to have me "push the limits" if you want, but my D#5 is gonna' be a bit strained, my E5 is gonna' be pitchy, and my F5 is unlikely to ever sound. I absolutely take advantage of the 7-string allowing me to write songs in lower keys. I hate it when you get to your low E and have to go back up to hit a D when you really want to go down.

[@TayTayMakesBeats]

Does your issue with going straight to the board also apply to bass DIs? I was considering taking up bass and I'm not too fond of carrying 50 pounds of amp wherever I go. Thanks for the video.

[@CodeineCoffee]

Honestly, the way it's mixed makes it very difficult to tell the difference. I got all but the framus, which I wasn't familiar with anyway. There was a loss of depth, but again, the mix makes it very hard to hear.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

That's the whole point: how does this thing hold up in a mix?

[@CodeineCoffee]

For this mix, I wouldn't give a flying fat fuck if the Axe FX was used or the real amp. The difference in modeling amps and their real counterparts that I usually notice is in depth and sometimes a slightly uncomfortable fizz in the high end. However, I would be interested to see how well modeling amps hold up when the guitar being used is loaded with passive pickups that have a unique character, like the Dimarzio Crunch Lab, instead of actives. Actives have always seemed rather flat to me, and I'd like to see how well the Axe FX can mimic subtle techniques that change attack of the mids in particular.

[@CodeineCoffee]

And I forgot to mention that this was a very nice comparison video. Sorry.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

Daggerpaw1 The 7 string had passives.

[@CodeineCoffee]

Well apparently, amp sims have gotten pretty damn good. Too bad I don't have ~$2700 for the AxeFX II and footboard plus the cost of a great power amp. Would you use the AxeFX II out of the studio as opposed to a normal amplifier?

[@TheLeviathan36]

Glenn what do you think about BIAS desktop by Positive Grid? I think is a good record option if you can't afford any of those amps...

[@Giogiogio4]

I don't like the entire viewpoint of "fake vs "real". Instead we should just view it as another kind of amp rather than a "fake" amp. Dif kind of tone plain and simple. I had the Kemper, Axe FX II and a few Pricey real amps. And by "Had", I owned them for 7 months each atlease. Sold them for various reasons. if Im going to be too busy I sell something off because I know a new one will come out. Real amps: Great for everything BUT the bedroom and song writing Guitarist who doesnt have a big studio. Too much work setting up Mics,Cabs, Sound proofing room and so on. If you do have the set up and touring you will have a great time. Kemper: Great for recording. You get the Best tones, the basic effects and everything you want to set up a tone quickly. This is GREAT for people who know the feel of various amps, likes to switch and tweak various setups quickly and lay down tracks and record at home, in the studio and so on. Even better if you have an amp and studio because you can save the tones from your real amp thus saving you more time. Axe FX: The good all around one. The tones are close but not as good as the others. But this piece of gear allows you a TON of choices when it comes to gigging, recording and so on. Ton of effects, Ton of options if you take the time to know how to use it. My overall choice goes to the Kemper. I like the tone the best, usability. I dont need as many options of the Axe FX. And I didnt need the hassle and power of a Real amp. The Kemper gave me the tone I wanted to just sit back, record some tracks and Mix.

[@sandylucker7717]

Massive Tits I wouldn't call them fake but still its nit really an amp is basically a computer making the sound of another amp

[@Dream-Academy]

Massive Tits is nearly always fake!

[@robertenache8463]

Massive Tits bedroom = shit music. too quiet to be exciting

[@Dream-Academy]

***** no sometimes fake tits are attached to a real gf. They are fund for a while ... fun bags, but really i would prefer them natural even if they were smaller!

[@cassius969]

How do you get the most out of modellers? I have a pod HD300 hooked up to a orange crush r30 . Does it even make sense to run a board with amp mic cab modulation enabled through an guitar amp-cabinet or should I hook it up to an active near field monitor instead to get the most accurate reproduction of the mic and cab emulation (and amp seen as right now its an emulated amp through an orange amp)? Also do you still sell the mic cups?

[@elguitarTom]

I had the Axe Fx 2. Used it mostly for home recording, but I found some VST plugins that gave me better sound and made the recording easier for me. So I sold it. And for band rehersal / live I use Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier. Easy setup and gives a good sound.

[@alexwolfguitar]

elguitarTom Would you mind sharing what VSTs you found? I'd be interested to look at them!

[@elguitarTom]

metalhead9838772 pvdhp7.wordpress.com/ scroll a bit down and find the "Fourteen" VST Plugin (this guy makes a lot of good plugins. Try the rectifier too. I just found the Fourteen amp to sound better with my mixing and mastering). I used the TS808 on top and kefir impulse loader (don't remember impulse response I used, but try with different ones until you get the sound you need). I manage to get this sound out of it (it is EQ'ed though and mastered): instaud.io/7ay

[@bernieburnalot]

elguitarTom PC versions only, unfortunately.

[@smoreshaunted]

Tom, I know I'm late but thank you for sharing these. Right now I'm just using some pedals in front of my interface and some Lepou amps sims.

[@modularben7421]

I use Guitar Rig NI software plugins for recording guitar into Ableton that works well at less cost than an Axe FX or Kemper.

[@IDONTEXIST_6]

The mesa boogie sounded beautiful. But i had a serious question. Im not sure if i should get an axe fx (because of the price) or if i should get something like a Line 6 or a Randall.

[@piscesdreams1023]

Dammit man that 5150 sounds like Heaven. Your videos are rekindling my lost interest in music.

[@mauroaguirre1017]

what´s the name of the technique in the cobra amp in the min 3:20? thxs

[@leafinfirerob]

Great video. I think where the Ace FX truly shines is portability. If you're a signed act travelling the world, it will cost you less money to ship a fractal unit from venue to venue than an entire guitar rig and back up. Still. Nothing beats a stack.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

agreed.

[@jacobthunell9231]

Hi Glenn! For recording I would definetley go for the Axe instead of using different heads and cabs but how would you say it holds up at live gig? Does it sound more thin and weak compared to the real deal in a live situation?

[@robflores5172]

Every amp you'll ever need for a fraction of the price you'd pay to own all of them. Good idea.

[@RyanAlexanderBloom]

I guessed right 2/3 and the one that confused me was the rectifier... which is surprising since one of my guitarists plays through a mesa.

[@future4you]

He makes an excellent point about being at the mercy of the SOUND MAN who most likely doesnt' give a SH*T about you. Yes this works for Steve Vai but, Joe Average might be hittting a wall. I was guessing by what I liked the sound of most. My choices were 1)A 2)B 3)A. They sounded more exaggerated then the real deal. All were the AXE. The real deals were more subtle.

[@CT76OH]

but were at the mercy of the sound guy anyway, I bring my halfstack I am told to turn it down and still get a bad monitor mix on top of not being able to get my tubes in the sweet spot, axefx just bring a monitor with you, halfstack bring am 25 watt head, either way a shitty sound man and shitty pa is going to make either rig sound bad

[@mott2081]

Lol, I chose 1)A 2)B 3)A as well and I was very surprised that they were all the axe-fx! The 5150 in the first clip sounded absolutely HORRIBLE compared to the axe-fx.

[@SocialGore]

Just curious, is there a reason you didn't just record one dry performance and re-amp it through each of the units?

[@wesleyryanjohnson]

wow. who the hell is this guy anyway? Hard to teach an old dog new tricks I guess.

[@wesleyryanjohnson]

A bay area thrash producer telling us about guitar tone...

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

I'd love to know how you deduced that one.

[@wesleyryanjohnson]

SpectreSoundStudios that framus riff?? You can dial up a good tube tone, I've listened to enough of your tone examples to know that. What is irritating to me is when someone spends 15 grand on tubes and then pisses on the smart guys rocking the same epic tone from an axefx.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

15 Grand on tubes? Are you on crack?

[@GabrielTheGuitarist]

wesley johnson That's about 230-187 quality sets of quad matched tubes like TAD/RUBY/EH....If you go through that much in a 5 year gigging span...then you've got a shit amp with a shit problem.

[@northlorn]

I gotta ask, what's your take on Line 6's Spider amp line?

[@KassBelaire-y5w]

academic FYI: "double blind" would mean that the audience AND you would be blinded from knowing which amps were being played

[@Burkhimself]

I play rock guitar. What do you think the best cab simulator is (to possibly run between my soldano pre & Mesa power amp).... As a go to if my power amp goes down. Palmer ? Two notes ? Any advice or opinion ?

[@Ureyeuh]

I've never been to this channel before. I'm not biased on the Fractal. I began to watch this video and immediately noticed this guy is wearing the shirt that he is, and immediately my will to consider his opinions dropped, but, I was taught to never judge a book by it's cover, so I watched the whole video. In this video, it appears as if the reviewer is only seeing the metal/high gain side of the axe fx, as well as the direct in side of the axe fx. If you're going to simply dig out high gain tones from the AxeFx, play only rhythm tones, and be stupid enough to think the sound guy can do what you want every night with your Fractal, then don't buy an AxeFx. The AxeFx is not just a high gain amp simulator. It's a low, mid, high gain, multi-effect, tone matching, lightweight, well supported, powerhouse of a machine. The reviewer is claiming it would be better for you to simply purchase a used 5150 and a cab and call it day, when in reality, you're going to be purchasing a road case for your gear, a power conditioner, various pedals, a pedal board/case, etc. (if you're smart and serious) which runs it up to almost the same cost. The only difference, is your going to be breaking your back on tour that much more from the weight, you have to worry about more gear failing, more gear potentially being stolen, more gear having to be replaced, and most importantly, you're limited to that ONE AMP giving you that ONE TONE which makes you very one dimensional (admit it, even strictly metal guys love having more than one tone). If you have the cash, tour or play shows regularly, love having more options and tonal possibilities, and hate lugging around a heavy ass head and cab, then the AxeFx is something to consider. I sold an Orange 4x12, a Blackstar Series One 200, 6-10 pedals, laptops, etc. for mine, and I don't regret it at all.

[@dannybrazen]

Uriah Graves agreed. not to mention the fact that all 3 of the amps in this video have shitty clean channels. with an axe-fx you could dial in a nice fender or something for clean parts (metal songs have clean passages too!)

[@punkmusicmetal]

+Uriah Graves Axefx, foot controller, power amp, cab. The only thing that you have the power to fix on the road is the cab. Anything else needs to be sent back to manufacturer to service. With my "analog" gear, I can go to literally any major city and I am guaranteed to find a dozen good people who know how to work on my gear OR a plethora of stores that have the parts ready in stock for me to do it myself for much cheaper. For a touring musician THAT makes too much sense. And if you do get robbed, which is waaay to common nowadays, what happens? You've limited yourself to a digital product that isn't as common as traditional amps and that cant be as easily replaced and you've spent all this time figuring out how your certain product works with limited crossover application to what your replacing it with. Also, most people don't care about "tone". The end listener, the end point of a song, is whether or not it was a good song. Having the unlimited tones in that respect doesn't hold any water over traditional amps either. Are you really going to have several different amp tones for each 4-10 songs you're going to playing on tour as a no-name or even mid-level touring band? How pointless when the listener doesn't care. They care about songs and your stage prescence. You will hear ZERO people who aren't gear nerds say, "Oh my god, that AxeFx clean tone you dialed in was so much better than a Fender amp! I'm going to buy your CD, purchase your shirt, tell all my friends about you AND suck your dick because of the AxeFx!" Too many people thinking gear makes a band or that fiddling for hours on some device to get a certain guitar tone you want is going to make you a better player or be better somehow in the eyes of the people you're playing to, and it doesn't. And you need a road case for the axe fx, the power conditioner, the cab, and the foot contoller anyway, why would that be an issue? AxeFx unit and power amp are heavy too dude. Cab's are heavy. Can't really make efficient speakers that aren't heavy, at least not yet.

[@Ureyeuh]

+metalskim I'm playing music for me. Not because I want to make a ton of money. Therefore, I do want a ton of different amp tones, and a plethora of choices, and don't consider the listener when making tonal decisions. I don't care if the listener appreciated my tone after the set, but if they do I'm stoked! Everyone loves a nice tone compliment. If they do, that's icing on the cake. As far as theft goes, finding your Fractal would be way easier than finding your 5150. 5150's, 6505's are everywhere. Fractals are going to stick out. People remember who's got one. I agree about gear malfunctioning on the road. that's a good point. but most of the time, you can borrow a head from the band before you in the tour set.

[@Ureyeuh]

Have you ever toured man? Have you ever been in a real band? Nobody puts a fucking gps tracker in their amp because nobody in a real band has money for that. Unless it's a head valued at over 4k, you're not going to go to lengths like that, and if you're touring with gear like that, you probably have enough staff roaming the venue and bus/van to deter thieves and you also probably aren't playing in the shady, run-down part of town... (In other words you can pay your bills with your music and losing some gear isn't a make or break scenario.) Also, you don't always play venues with flat surfaces. Sometimes you're lugging you're Blackstar Series One 200, Orange 4x12, pedal board, and other various pieces of gear up 3 flights of stairs. And if you're not a dick, you're helping your bandmates get their gear up the stairs as well.

[@punkmusicmetal]

Uriah Graves See okay, that's a fair reason to use it. Having that choice is great for a lot of people and in the end, music should be about what you to do with it. I personally wouldn't do it because it still feels like a luxury item for me. I've found that too many choices either stifles creativity or I pay money for something I'm only using half the features for. But that's just me.

[@kvltwalter]

When you say the "red bean" are you referring to those Line 6 Pods?

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

yep. "piece of shit" works equally well too :)

[@kvltwalter]

SpectreSoundStudios Yeah I've never been attracted to the PODs or digi-modeling amps. I'm fine with my 5150! That thing's a beast.

[@vkuolema79]

I build tube amps and i've had a fair amount of famous amps to test and benchmark and let me tell you. PCM modulation isn't perfect and does a lot of filtering during the conversion process meaning that the signal is "reconstructed" based on the fact PCM system do contain errors during the transmision of the data. Not that alone the slew rate response from analog transistor based devices are way faster and won't have this "round" response from a tube no matter how precise convolution tecniques are applied. A greater resolution PCM based processing demands heavy processing in order to take the bigger amount of snapshots of the analog signal and reducing filtering. Consider another fact that your signal inside a DSP or processing unit is just a few volts and probably has a line level output. A real tube amp will handle signals with 10 times greater levels and unless they can model the non linearity of tubes and speaker coil saturation a DSP based emulator won't beat the real deal. A real tube amp just sounds way more dynamic, uncompressed, less flat and ALIVE than anything i've tried so far. I've also benchmarked famous "stompboxes" modeled and they don't even come close to the original unit. Also. remember every DSP based system has latency, even if its 50ms or less

[@JDRBNFB]

I'm just curious if you have a take on the LIne 6 POD HD500 and/or the Line 6 POD PRO HD, with the L6 DT-50 direct link. I haven't found a lot of commentary about them in online sources.

[@sonicwingnut]

Cool video! I'd agree current amp sims are pretty good, although I'm yet to afford my own Axe FX or Kemper. I can tell the difference there, especially the Mesa, but they're so close that it comes down to personal preference as to which one is actually better. I think for the studio I'd definitely want one, simply because the versatility of tones available means that instead of buying a 5150 alone, you're getting a shitload of other amps into the bargain (like ones that don't do a totally shitty clean tone for example). Yeah you can get a 510 for like £600 over here, but a mesa dual rectifier, an Orange Thunderverb, a Vox AC30 and a fender twin on top of that and you're suddenly needing to remortgage your house. Also I should point out both the Kemper and Axe FX work with MIDI pedals, so a behringer FCB1010 sets you back a more comfortable £100 (and is surprisingly robust for a Behringer product). Live it's not as required, although I've been using Amplitube with a laptop on tour for a couple of years and through a power amp and speakers it sounds great with a bit of tweaking. You're right, as a live sound guy I've had no problem with DI'ing amps but would I fuck trust most house sound guys with my tone and stage sound - but using a power amp and cab creates a great sound because your speaker cab makes up such a large part of a tone's character that putting the real thing at the end of a signal chain works wonders.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

You've got one digital unit pretending to be a bunch of amps. Some with more success than others.

[@blackie75]

Just as a matter of interest, have you tried recording with lower wattage heads from any of the good brands?

[@Daemon_Dev]

Agressive shitty attitude from years of metal + Plays a Jackson and not a silly PRS with emo bird inlays. Count me in, keep it metal Glenn *Subscribed*

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

Lol. Thanks for the comment!

[@patientmental875]

I think the 5150 sample A crushes B in my opinion. A was the Axe right?

[@JobForAMaxboy]

Wow, all the comments on this video are either haters or trolls. How come so much hate towards a man who (rightfully) prefers the old school way of doing things?

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

Because the axe cost so much! How dare I criticize something that they paid for?

[@Craighetfield2024]

Hello I’m musician from northern Canada .. a little town called fond du lac .. I been playing for over 15 years and recently got into recording .. In your opinion for gear what would you suggest for starting gear for recording on a budget ?

[@yrussq]

Well, i believe it's pretty fair concept "Shut the fuck up and listen". Actually all band's high-end gear is a attempt to fight against the shitty gear of clubs you're playing at. It will always be a compromise in live gigs - of your fantasy of super unique sound and grounded shitty reality you're got in - old crap as a gear, awful acoustics of a room and half-drunk incompetent sound engineers in club. Great video!

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

That's one of the best replies ever.

[@yrussq]

SpectreSoundStudios Thanks man! Awesome channel! It's as hilarious as truthful.

[@Cloudriveband]

As far as studio work, would it be plausible to take the output into a tube amp to have the color of both worlds? Pretty much just using the fractal unit as a stomp box? I'm a newbie to the digital realm so..... Excuse me if I'm asking a stupid question. I'm used to all analog shit:)

[@guitarsishere]

i can still tell a diffrence even with cpu speakers. i would say that actual monitors would be more apparent . AXE FX holds up well and the technology is improving in time it will be more favorable to alot of people IF they would drop the price a bit

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

agreed. :)

[@anthonyquinn]

Hi Glenn, I'm going to be playing some gigs next week with my Pod HD Pro going straight to the PA, I've done it once before and it was OK, I still love my Engl Powerball to bits but due to practical reasons I can't use it for these gigs. Do you have any advice for me when dealing with the sound techs in this situation?

[@erlikquadros5873]

Every day I discover that I don't like Mesa/Boogies! only one that Axe FX sounded better to me!

[@torchlord11]

It seems that the bass is more present in all the Axe fx presets, which seem to happen in the Ultra as well.

[@doseofreality100]

As a dude not into the technicality of music or recording and is just a humble purchaser of said tunes........ I heard absolutely no difference on anything. If it wasn't for the cut scenes telling me equipment was changed I wouldn't have known. I think musicians and engineers tend to be a little too over-analytical and obsessive compulsive over insanely minor details. While you probably can hear a difference because it is your job/passion...... the consumer..... the people you are playing and recording for can't tell the fucking difference. While everyone in any craft should always shoot for the best at what they do, sometimes it may be just a bit of overkill. It's like comparing a bic brand pen to a zebra brand pen. Sure the Zebra might have a better flowing and smoother ink when you write with it than the Bic....... but is it justifiable spending 5x the amount to enjoy the slight benefit? You can still write just fine with a cheap ass Bic pen. Just like everything, masters at their craft can make even the shittiest piece of equipment work for them. Do you think Les Claypool would completely sound like shit if he played on a $150 starter bass? No. No he wouldn't. He and other musicians might say the bass sounds like shit, but to the average consumer/listener....... it still sounds badass. My main point is, the overwhelming majority of people listening to the music you play or record can't tell the difference on what equipment you use. Only time it is noticeable is if you go from, say, a starter amp to, say, a $4000 rig. I think audiophiles get a little melodramatic when it comes to their sound quality. In this test it sounds like you're splitting hairs if you can actually tell the difference between any of them. That said it sounds like Glenn agrees with me... somewhat.

[@yoitsmegabe]

I agree, I'm one of those over analyzers and it has taken me the better part of a year to learn to "let go" and just enjoy the equipment. Whether it be computer parts or audio equipment, sometimes chasing gear and tone become its own hobby and playing becomes secondary. Ultimately, very few people ever care about the details that go into any given craft, and that's kind of a shame. Those that do, are probably artists themselves.

[@yaboirico5221]

tell me about how you made the riff from 3:19 to 3:30

[@isansimpson2056]

your tones are pretty dated it seems a little ridiculous for you to knock a contemporary product so much when your tone is stuck in the 90s

[@bernieburnalot]

Isan Simpson "Tone" is a highly subjective thing, my friend. Let's look at the "90's": Do you mean to tell me that Kurt Cobain had a tone that was anywhere even similar to Dimebag Darrell? Give your head a shake.

[@imdartson3679]

If the axe fx was only good for modern metal tones, wouldn't that defeat the purpose of having all the options it offers? Food for thought..

[@sabadodomingo4340]

Isan Simpson do you even metal haha ?

[@joeyvpoisonfree]

Good comment lmao

[@davekp6773]

Isan Simpson The 90s when real music played on real instruments by real musicians was common place, and the recordings made by hard up musicians at cheap yet no less professional studios sounded infinitely better than the artificial nonsense Glenn rails against today.

[@thehostwiththemost5516]

All i've ever had is a raven cab and head. I have no clue what else im supposed to have in terms of solid tone. I've heard of compressors and all this other stuff but what exactly is the axe fx and why would a gigging guitarist need it?

[@mrhoadz3809]

i could see the level meters on the axe fx lol

[@sarahjohns8559]

they play in both samples dumbass

[@RoeyHaviv]

Got the first two right over a iPhone speaker, probably chance. As for relaying on a soundguy, as a bar/club soundguy I've had bands come in with their own digital mixer and in ears, they controlled their own monitor mix via iPad and I just mixed FOH which was a breeze due to no stage volume.

[@jeffmays7192]

Uh, it's actually 2500.00 up to 3200.00 and worth every penny. cloning the crap peavey is just the tip of mount everest but pounding chords is your thing so I wouldn't expect you to understand. Rock on!

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

"Crap Peavey" you jusr invalidated your own argument.

[@jeffmays7192]

SpectreSoundStudios Please, elaborate on the peavey. Make me a believer!! Show me that it's not a mass produced, cheap component piece of shit. This should be good!

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

I have a feeling arguing my point would be a waste of time, as you already have your mind made up. Work with what you like.

[@jeffmays7192]

SpectreSoundStudios Cool! Glad you see my point! I wouldn't back it up either.. Rock on!!

[@jeffmays7192]

Paul Bateman Lol!! then I suggest more tweaking!! patience is the name of the game with the axe fx. I just spent half a day with Dave Friedman and we went over a number of issues one was the tone matching. He says and I quote, "The axe fx is 98% capable of matching any rig any set up anytime" He himself has cloned many of his hand built racks ,amps and says there hasn't been a client yet that can tell the difference. Please know what you're saying before you open your mouth. Mr. Friedman knows what he's talking about and you clearly do not! As far as the 5150 goes and EVH I can tell you with great accuracy that Eddie has never once plucked a single note through a stock amp! Especially a Peavey! That would be like saying Steve Vai plays Ibanez when everyone on the planet knows who actually builds his guitars and that Ibanez has never built a guitar in their whole history! Next please!

[@fatgirlstudios]

I was surprised. Blindly, I preferred the 5150 over the AxeFX, but the AxeFX over the Rectifier. The Framus over the AxeFX. One day I'll pick up a 5150 if I find one out here in the mighty cornfields of the Midwest. I'm planning to pick up a used Carvin V3MC (combo) tomorrow after a 60 mile drive on a Craigslist purchase; any comments on this amp? When you're not tracking heavy hi-gain guitar tones, with which amp(s) do you prefer to track clean tones, Glenn? Thanks for the videos.

[@lovelymanolis]

wow this guys is fucking awesome! Literally an old school bad ass!

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

Thanks! That made my day!

[@lovelymanolis]

SpectreSoundStudios No Problem dude, please upload more videos! i really do enjoy them all.

[@MetalMarauder]

How do you feel about the Line6 AMPLIFi? I think it's pretty good for local players who want a wide variety of sounds, but I'd like to see what you think about it.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

Haven't tried one. I'll see about getting my hands on one for review. Got something very cool coming up in a few weeks. Stay tuned.

[@koekhapper]

autotune is poison.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

And Beat Detective is cancer.

[@DamnDealDone]

SpectreSoundStudios ...and MP3's are the corpse.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

LOL, that's brilliant!

[@orlock20]

AutoTune allows dancers and models believe they can sing and the audience, high on XTC, pot and alcohol (all at the same time) doesn't care. Sound engineers go nuts when they get to hear a professionally trained singer.

[@oiman5733]

SpectreSoundStudios And pre-teen girls are the coffin.

[@Z0S0The0utrider69]

As a producer and engineer what do you think is better for studio use passive or actives? I understand that this might not be a easy question to answer (hell, guitarists have been fighting each other for years over this!) but I would love to know what your opinion is.

[@zerocrossing]

Late to the party, but have you ever been to a local bar where the band, especially one that has metal bands play at it, have good sound with mic’d amps? You have a much better chance of having a clean mix when you’re not worried about cranking the mic so loud that it feeds back and is picking up too much bleed from the drums and guitars.

[@panasony23]

What do you think of the hd500x? I always used a 30 w practice ss amp for 10 years, so i really dont know what a good sound should be. I already have hd500x, and it seems ok, tricky to get a tone though. I won't pay $2500 for the axe fx but it did sound good

[@rimythemurloc]

If you play in local bars it is likely that the sound guy tells you to turn down your volume on the amplifier anyway. Most of the time your amp is so quiet you need to get a boost from the monitoring anyway. And what is more likely, the sound guy getting you a good tone through micing the cab or getting a di signal?

[@jeanguion3223]

main question i have is... can you capture an amp with this thing..? i swear i seen a video where a guy direct links it to a preamp in a tube head , captures it , and then does the power section seperate.. if this is the case..i'm sold.. i'm a tweeker with gear and can use the shit out of a parametric eq...which is the main difference between most all the amps i like... but the feel...is it there... it looks like its there...

[@CraigDouglasproducer]

Were you using the cab sim on the axfx or using the same cab as the heads. If you are using the same cab, what power amp?

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

Axefx was direct & tone matched.

[@undertakeredgar]

What's the difference between this and the Kemper?

[@purplemonkeyelephant]

I've gigged in places where the sound person told me 'you can't get any more of vocals/guitar etc in your monitors because they're maxed out, sorry'. Then you play the whole gig as if you had noise cancelling headphones on. These venues were established places too. I couldn't tell the difference between the samples though, very impressive.

[@pablorar]

after all, this is all about taste. Loved the video dude, and I respect that you took the time to answer the comments haha lml

[@darkstryker9004]

What are the settings for the real 5150? I have a 6505 and a mesa recto 412 but I can't get this sound. I also run with a generic "smooth" drive pedal but I'm not sure whether to ditch it, as well as a 5 band EQ that I can throw in. Thanks for the help if you respond. rip

[@darkstryker9004]

+Dark Stryker I forgot to mention the 6505 is the mini model. FUCK.

[@SecretsOfGuitar]

On the subject on amp sims, what are your thoughts on cabinet impulses?

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

There are some really good ones out there.

[@sonofhendrix1618]

What about an AX8 and an FRFR speaker cab..... Is that more viable?

[@nagol5178]

Better to run the AX8 out to a Mesa 50/50 power amp, then out to a guitar cabinet. You'll get that tube power amp tone and it's extremely loud, even using half of the Mesa at 50 watts is EXTREMELY loud. You can find them on Ebay for around 500 dollars in mint condition, if you find one of the older ones, they have a 15 watt switch. Which is still extremely loud. It's just really hard to get around using a Tube Power Amp in a live situation and sound as good as the real thing unless you're a touring band with a sound guy and even then, I think it sounds weaker than having the real tubes in there. Even the Mesa 20/20 will go loud enough to gig with. I use 2x12's, I used to use 4x12's, found that a good 2x12, like the Mesa oversize rec 2x12 has more resonance and is just as loud as most 4x12's. Mic it up and send it to the PA. Another advantage is I have three 2x12's, I can put them in different spots but I only really need one. If you're playing in a place that doesn't have a great PA, it's good to put a 2x12 behind the drummer because he usually can't hear you. Little Carvin 2x12 will work for that. They weigh hardly nothing. Don't cost much either. Another hidden cheap gem is the Jet City 2x12, it's very cheap new, yet it doesn't sound cheap at all.

[@sonofhendrix1618]

Thanks for the great advice.

[@nagol5178]

No problem. Check out the Digitech 1101 if you want to go a little cheaper. If you run through a tube power amp the 1101 is amazing. It is not as amazing running direct like the Axe FX though. It is good as a pre amp only. Dave Mustaine used it for a long time with a Marshall power amp.

[@MobileDecay]

Sounds good. Just a question though can the drummer count? =P

[@HalcyonicmusicUK]

So you have had the Axe FX. What about line 6's go at a rack mounted modeller the Pro X Hd? I've been looking in to it as a alternative to the fractal for demo production (just something I can switch on a go) and in fairness to it, its still head and shoulders above that crappy little red thing they put out.

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

I'll see if I can get my hands on one.

[@DeathMetalDuelist666]

What do you feel about using the Fractal or say a Line 6 POD HD500X as a pedal board (I know it's as expensive as hookers and blow in a Vegas trip) plugging directly into an amp head that goes into an actual amp, which say, Between The Buried And Me use, where you can have a billion presets with actual sound without all the pedals.

[@johnyang799]

That is not double blind. It is just a normal blind test.

[@DarioSantaAnnaOfficial]

hey man, when will u do a video on the 11 rack?

[@NickAcker]

I recommend giving the Get Good Drums sample pack a listen. They sound better than most professionally recorded drums do in my opinion. I think dismissing samples and programmed drums is a bit of a waste if you don't take the time and effort to find out what works and what doesn't. That's basically the process of making music.

[@coolx9357]

can anyone tell me how else can you make cool tones etc. if you dont buy an Axe FX or any processsor? I do not know anything about this stuff yet but I want to make my own tones and such with reverb, delay, effects, etc.

[@SLAMSTERDAMN]

I really dig the recessed monitor mounts IN the wall. Nice Glenn, do they kill rear bounce & such shit & what kind are they? I'm in the budget monitor range which is JBL sounding good, Presonus Erin's good, Yamaha NS 'NEW' kind of good 'ol heartbreakers & a Behringer Auratones replicant for mono checking, maybe even running a gtr head thru a Palmer 040 & auratone. Tell us about monitors Glenn!

[@SpectreSoundStudios]

using event asp-8. soffit mounted for clarity & translation. studio design is a long-term stretch goal for this channel.

[@SLAMSTERDAMN]

Cool Glenn, THX. I'm guessing I'd be off to Cambodia to sell a kidney for those.

[@greckendale]

Hey Glenn, whats your honest opinion on Eleven Racks? I personally love mine. I play through the best Roland Keyboard amp (I know, youre probably laughing already!) but I have never been happier with my tone. The stuff I play is not metal, so Im not seeking metal tones, I'm playing a form of anthemic rock, and I absolutely love the Eleven! I'd love your thoughts man?