Nano Cortex vs Kemper Player: the definitive comparison (Scientific Tone Comparison vs Tube Amps)

[@HLBmusix]

These tests are so good, I don’t even care about the units anymore. I just wanna see the testing as entertainment

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much for such an amazing compliment!!!!

[@vasiGuitar]

You have no idea how much I’ve been waiting for this🙌

[@joejohnson8966]

Absolutely agree

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much and I hope you are gonna like the video!!!

[@vasiGuitar]

I already gigged the Nano Cortex last night. My bandmates told me I never sounded this good in my life! I played with them in the past with the big QC, Kemper, Fender Twin Reverb with pedalboard, DSM&Humboldt simplifier MKII… So this should mean something I guess…

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you for sharing!!!

[@guitartoneSA]

Me too. I can't believe the Kemper Liquid Profile was 18% more accurate.

[@thomaswilson3485]

You’re literally the only person on KZbin I trust to give honest opinions, and this comparison I was waiting for. I hope both companies do better in the future!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you soooooo much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!! Thank you for such amazing compliments!!

[@diariomontadoraustralia]

This channel is the BEST channel on the internet for testing gear and helping consumers to make decisions. Thanks Leo!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you soooo much for such amazing compliments that really make me happy!!!!

[@jhonklk]

The best in the game of testing multi effects processors 🔥

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@Jhony-kf9eq]

X2

[@zinou187]

Thanks Leo for this great comparaison, I bought de Nano Cortex and I'm returning it for two blockers for me: Lack of overdrive effect Lack of possibility to bypass the cab for one output and let it for the other, also if you use a power amp and use headphone for the monitoring, it disable the cab for both which is very basic feature for any product advetised to be for live

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome and than you for sharing...interesting points for sure!

[@StavK]

Phil McKnight for guitars, Leo Gibson for modelers! And I mean that in the most complimentary way! Great analysis, presentation of info, demo sounds. Everything one needs to make informed decisions before purchasing one unit vs another.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much for such nice compliments and I'm happy to have been of some help!!!

[@doctordalloz9616]

Hi Leo! I didn't know your channel. A proper review... Magnificent. You're awesome!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you sooo much, I'm really happy that you have discovered our community and I hope you will enjoy it also in the future! Thank you!

[@reverendtos4271]

This has quickly become the best, serious guitar channel on youtube \m/

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you for such an amazing compliment and I'm really happy that you appreciate the channel!!!

[@Paul-D]

What a great video. I can imagine how much time went into this but it showed there both great units and gave all the needed info to pick which one suits you best

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video...and I'm happy to be of some help!!!

[@digitalchris6681]

Fascinating! Well done Leo. I'd decided (after buying - and selling -numerous units) that profiles were not for me, but the Kemper liquid tech is an eye-opener. I know this tech has been around for a while but this is the first 'scientific' test I've seen. But.... even so I'll stick with model-based digital kit until profile-based stuff improves even further.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you , I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!

[@akuakumc]

As always you manage to produce the best KZbin gear comparison with outstanding playing and very nice composition. Thanks!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much for such amazing components that really make me happy!!!

[@RichardCharles-RCJH]

Have to comment one more time Leo... thank you for all the time spent, your tests and presentations are second to none!!!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!!

[@MrAntpre]

Such a nice review. So much of work you must have put in it. Congratulations 👏👏👏

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, and I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@BenBreard]

I love your nerdy deep dive videos so much. I'm only 30 seconds in and I know I'm going to love this. Thanks for putting in the time to do this!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome and I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@bedroomwarriorgtr]

Finally, it’s here!! Thank you so much for the comparison, Leo. As I mentioned before, fantastic work on this channel! These were very interesting results, and they were pretty much aligned with my thoughts. I really liked the sounds from the Nano Cortex better. For me, the UX, in general, was much better than the Kemper. I fixed the issue with the drive before the amp by adding a mini TS-808 before the Nano or capturing the amp with the drive in the chain already. See you in the next video!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome and I'm very happy that you appreciate the video! Thank you also for sharing your findings!

[@METALHAWK]

Incredible comparison. We can feel the amount of work is needed for such a complete analysis. I own a Stage and it is amazing but IMHO a 300€ paid update (edit: wont be so funny) for a costumer, who just spent almost 700€. NC sounded awesome, but the imposibility of a distortion pedal in front of any amp of your choice is almost a no-go, and as you said, is totally incomprehensible. Thank you Leo for this awesome video!! Hopefully, these companies will watch it and check a few things.

[@danielferrera8773]

@@METALHAWK @milankotevski1663 you see? This guy can feel the amount of work done by another person ;P

[@Tanax13]

If you get the Player, you have the possibility to upgrade it to almost have the same features as the Stage, for 600€ cheaper than the Stage (of course, you're missing a few FS, screen, capture, etc, which explains the price difference). The upgrade is optional also. If you get the Nano, you can't do anything. If you need "more", you need to get the QC which is a lot more expensive. Granted, that also gives it modeling capabilities so it's a bit difficult to compare. But honestly, I don't understand how the upgrade is a "huge insult"? Did people expect the Player to be a much MUCH cheaper Stage with the same capabilities? They knew the capabilities before buying it, and now they have the option to upgrade. I'd say it's a great option to have rather than having to discard your unit to buy a more powerful one should you ever need more capabilities. The fact is that most people are just unused to having to pay for an upgrade, which is an intangible thing. The same people have no issues paying for an upgrade to a "Pro" unit though, having to go through selling your old unit, etc.

[@METALHAWK]

I get what you mean, and you are basically right, but if people knew from the beginning that they are buying an "incomplete" unit, do you think the selling results would have been the very same? I would say that paid upgrades are a correct solution if they are informed from the very beginning, then you decide if the unit and its paid potential is OK. Just my point of view.

[@Tanax13]

@@METALHAWK That's of course one way of looking at it. You could also look at it like they paid and got exactly what they paid for. That wasn't an incomplete unit, rather these paid upgrades are expanding the existing unit. What they paid for and got (the non-upgraded unit) is exactly what they got. The way you phrases it makes me think you believe that people expected Kemper to bring the Player up to the same capabilities as the Stage for free? No one does that. Fractal charges an arm and a leg to be able to have two amp blocks for instance (you need the FM9). Imagine if the FM3 could just be upgraded to allow for that instead, that would be amazing for those that only need the FM3 otherwise with less footswitches, smaller footprint, etc. rather than having to buy a whole NEW unit which would be incredibly more expensive.

[@edgoforth9546]

@@METALHAWK It was mentioned in the beginning about paid upgrades, why do people not remember, it was the 1st thing I saw when people were asking if it had morphing possibilities, its the basic with more effects than the other competition, a Keely Halo( delay only) is in the $300 range and its a one effect only pedal, also 44k vs. 48k, not everyone will hear this though it would be nice to have 48k, I have a hard time telling the difference in the comparisons, apples and oranges to some. It's a matter of preference, and desired features/options really. You buy a car, no A/C, you live in an area its not really needed, you travel to a warmer area, wished you had the A/C. The company offers you a A/C upgrade, take it or leave it, if you are only going to use it once in a great while, or if you live in a cold area be happy you have the stock heater, that's where I am at :) Again, personal priorities for each persons needs. The paid Kemper upgrades far exceeds my expectations, for what I paid for a Keely Halo that left me less that happy as it's saturation feature still saturated when bypassed, where the Paid upgrades allows me to add grit or keep it clean with way more effects than I can get in a single pedal of the quality, $300 is a no brainier beside all the other features that it comes with, remember there are 2 upgrades to fit your needs, 1- $150, 2-$300 all the effects and extra blocks, and the extras that I cant even list here... :) I understand your concerns, but the little details are not really noticeable in a playing environment really. Find what works for your situation, this is almost like what car you prefer, I won't go into politics, on how they like to dig up dirt on the other guy to make themself look good, when they do that, I go in the opposite direction.... I appreciate Leo's honest opinions and extensive work involved in doing this, it is very extensive to do all this that he is doing here, thank you Leo!! :)

[@wolfgangcordsen3430]

Ciao Leo. Ottimo test. Molto professionale e istruttivo.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Grazie mille, sono veramente contento che il video ti sia piaciuto!!!

[@marcelo_campitelli]

amazing video as usual Leo! Quality music, information, review, and opinions! You are the best at this

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much Marcelo, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@scottyknows]

I purchased your tonex profile pack. Thank you for your reviews and dedication to detail. The tones you achieve are always superb!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the tones and getting the profile pack you are also actually helping the channel!!! Thank you once more!

[@picksalot1]

In terms of "accurate" Profiles, the Nano Cortex was better. Your criticisms on both units appear justified. The companies should pay attention. Thanks

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome! Thank you!

[@deskducker]

I bet my house neural will add boost pedal option firmware update.

[@tonepilot]

Superbly done. Nothing better on the internet.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much for such an amazing compliment!!

[@nikhilnarahari8424]

Fantastic video and analysis - thanks for putting in on the time to share this!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@ManuelSanchez-kr7xw]

Hey Leo, what a great comparison!! You solved all my questions. I was considering buying one of those units. Now I know. Thanks man🙏🏼

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you sooo much, I'm really happy to have been of some help!

[@iqbalirmawan9941]

amazing video comparison as always, Leo!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you soooo much!!!!

[@eanroad]

Leo, great job and thanks for the hard work! I think this vid comparison will get lots of views! Especially with Kemper’s decision to have a tiered feature system on the Kemper Player (lots of people not happy about that and will want to know the differences between it and the Nano Cortex). Cheers!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm happy that you appreciate the video and I really hope that your prediction will come true!!!!

[@guitartoneSA]

Well right here in these tests is a stock Player unit with no paid upgrades. And when using the Gain/EQ controls on both units a Liquid Profile is 18% more accurate to the tone of the original amp than a QC Capture.

[@laptoples]

Excellent review as always and wonderful playing !!!! Thanks for the awesome video Leo !!!! Have a great day and get some rest ! 👍😁👍

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video and the playing!!!!

[@pclindholm]

Wow, what great work. Your persistence and objectivity is admirable.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@mutzmusic5737]

Another great comparison video. Would love to see you do a Nano Cortex vs ToneX pedal sometime in the future.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you soooooo much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!! Yes, that would be and interesting video...!!!

[@etsat1]

This is the best guitar gear review channel.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much for such amazing words: it means a lot to me!!!

[@danthegeetarman]

Great video as always Leo!!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@adamcogan211]

This was a fantastic video! I’m still very much interested in the Nanocortex and it really is the perfect solution for my needs, especially since a good noise gate and transposer are important to me! (I think it’s better to have an external OD anyway or to just use a profile that has one captured). This was a fantastic comparison, your tests were very clear and easy to understand and you are great at explaining everything! I’m hoping the nano cortex will have a free update in the future to increase the blocks. The one thing I really wish it had was a compression like you said. Great video, subscribed!

[@garyphillips725]

One more thing, I'll add... I love the null test and appreciate the work going into that. I wonder if sometimes the audio material leftover after the subtractive process isn't content that might actually be detrimental to what is pleasant in human hearing? I don't know if the programmers have targeted certain spectrum to be removed for the sake of computational effort or whether the removed artifacts are essentially random. Bottom line, as much as the null test tells us, only our ears can tell us what we enjoy. Cheers!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you for sharing your findings!

[@kinorchestra732]

A really good test, clear and efficient. Bravo !!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!

[@nv8505]

Awesome performance! Impressive comparison. I really enjoy hearing the real deal vs the digital ! I choose the Nano Cortex because I use Neural DSP and I already have pedal effects. The amp, cab, and effects processor of the nano cortex are great addition to my pedal board.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much for your feedback!!! Thank you also for sharing you final choice!

[@romanovy]

Absolute legend! Thank you Leo

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you soooooo much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@jcoulter43]

Loved the demo song! We can always count on you going all out to give us your very best 👍 Great review. I think the Nanocortex gets the nod for me. Both sound fantastic. The "paid upgrade" model for the Kemper kills the value compared to what the Nanocortex can do. If I really like my capture, I won't tweak it much if at all. God bless and rock on 😎🎸

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much!!! Interesting points...thank you for sharing!!!

[@andrezcabara2774]

When you say, you won't tweak it "much if at all", then that implies you most likely will at least tweak it a little?

[@garyphillips725]

Super stuff as always and great tune. I own the Nano and I'm still learning the ropes. Couple things that I also would mention is the fact that you cannot change and save the effect settings on the unit itself like you can with the Kemper. You can only do that with the app. You can turn an effect on and off, but that's with whatever settings you already set using the app. The other bummer that I see and maybe I'm wrong but you can't save the level of the captures which means as you swap out the captures in one of your 4 presets, sometimes the level jumps up or down dramatically and though you can adjust that and resave that preset, if you load another capture in the amp slot, you're going to have to adjust it again. I plan on using my own captures of my own amps and making sure the levels are more consistent. If Neural DSP can address some of these issues, including adding an additional reverb algorithm or effect, I will definitely be happier but all said and done, I don't have buyer's remorse.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video! Thank you also for sharing your experience with the Nano....good point about the profile volume level....for sure it needs to be addressed......

[@garyphillips725]

Correction - it does state in one of the online docs that you can save the level of the capture in a preset by holding down the capture button for 2 seconds, adjusting with the level knob and then pressing save for 2 seconds. This is mentioned near the bottom of the principal manual but not in any of the other online docs. It should have been discussed when initially covering the parameter knobs for volume and gain.

[@mrblavign]

Thanks for this amazing review. Definitely helps with decision making.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome and I'm really happy to be of some help!!

[@p4kbetgaming885]

Subscribed! Excellent comparison.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you become part of our community: it means a lot to me!!!

[@youAlvaroGonz]

Thanks a lot for this! Great comparaison

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome and I'm happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@jpsatre]

awesome playing sir! much love from Au!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the playing!

[@Валерій-ъ3ы]

👍Digital finally started to sound very good. And I think this is not the last stage of its development...

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Yes! thank you for sharing!

[@marcostomasi79]

Certainly not but can you tell the difference on a blind test? I couldn't.

[@Валерій-ъ3ы]

@@marcostomasi79 When I listened with other instruments I didn't hear any difference at all. But when I heard only the guitar sound the real amplifier was still better. The frequency range is larger and there is volume of sound. The tested processors sounded approximately the same.

[@IbaiKn]

fantastic analysis sir, congrats

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!

[@Cremedevoodoo8]

Awesome testing vidéos , really good stuffs ! ❤

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you sooooo much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!!

[@stickman55100]

Fabulous scientific and auditory comparison.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you sooo much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@pablomenezzes]

The best guitar channel ever!!!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much for such an amazing compliment!!!

[@pepper...]

Ciao caro Leo. Voglio esprimere il mio parere sui suoni del bellissimo brano iniziale. Non ho avvertito nessuna differenza tra ampli reale, Kemper Player e Nano Cortex! Secondo me, la "colpa" è tua. Hai profilato in modo eccellente!!! 👍👍👍

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

😀 Grazie mille!!!

[@ferioliworkshop]

Great video Leo!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@themischa]

Your videos are the best 💜

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!

[@tunoman]

Bravo Leo! 🙌

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Grazie 10000!!!!

[@ricopaxton]

Best comparisons hands down ❤

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@NightOwlEd]

Thank you leo gibson once again for the meticulous and unbiased testing

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are more than welcome and thank you so much for your feedback!

[@Theliraan]

Very interesting information about capture tweak and later precision. You're always doing top notch tests. Imo: both devices are... 'overrated'. When there are Ampero Stomp II, Tonex One, HX Stomp, GT1000 Core on market for much more reasonable prices with more features, these 2 devices are total outsiders. I asked people at youtube and reddit, that decides to use NC as board core: why don't you want to purchase tube preamp pedal for lesser price if you care about quality of sound so much? Still don't have an answer.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video! interesting points...thank you for sharing!

[@hbo001]

I will answer you here instead. The tube preamp pedal is IMO waste of money. The tube(s) run on lower voltage and they don't sound the same as in real amp preamp or rack preamp unit. In addition, the reason why ppl opt for modelling devices is 'unlimited' amount of sound options you can get. That might not be for everyone and it's fine, right? The last option is to capture your rig and make it compact for travelling. This is for me the real only reason to buy NC or ToneX.

[@DToneQuest]

If i had not already bought a kemper player as a backup/travel all in one unit i would have purchased the nano (to put on a small board with pedals), as my main rig is the qc. That being said for $150 more getting the stock effects, routing I would choose the KPP as a backpack travel rig over the nano any day. Since they offered the expansion I now purchased (albeit with some sadness) and with all the new effects and 8 effect blocks it truly is a all in one with unlimited sounds. Granted then there is no comparison to be had with the nano after upgrade. Thanks Leo as always.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome and thank you so much for sharing your opinions and your findings!!!

[@webereaugusto]

como sempre muito coerente, essa de nao ter um bloco para overdrive na nano é inexplicável

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you and yes...I do agree!

[@charliemore2726]

I think big brands are taking advantage of their name, this prices are crazy. I bought the line6 pod express for 150 on ebay, and now with the software for computer and phone, its just amazing. I used lived and rehearsals without any issue.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you for sharing!!!

[@andivax]

Thank you very much, Leo. So Ampero II Stage is better choice if I don't need profiling?

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Ampero II stage is of course a great unit....and could be an option if you don't need profiles. By the way, it seems that Hotone is also introducing some sort of capturing procedure....I still have to check it out....

[@andivax]

@@LeoGibsonGtr looks like Hotone's device is the best in 700$ category. Do you agree? I love Kemper - very easy to use device and great sound. Axe FX is not my cup of tea - too slugish and not handy usability but grrat sound even without profiling. Looks like quad cortex is the best to me but the price tag...

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You know...I prefer not to say which is the best modeller, even limited to a specific price range, as it typically depends from what you need. I do agree of course that the Ampero is a very nice choice, and I like it. Thanks!

[@alborzmousapour3446]

@@andivaxhey Andi,if you don’t need profiling,try iklmultimedia Tonex(3 pedal version), it’s only 370€ and you have all those options and nice tones

[@alborzmousapour3446]

@@andivaxTonex(3 pedal version) + Electro Harmonix Analogizer stomp =400€ But you can have all fantastic and real tones

[@sandrews7760]

Waiting on this one. Thanks

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome!!!

[@edgoforth9546]

I think they are all great products, but Kemper has always worked at not becoming obsolete! If you don't need their upgrades, just be happy at the price you paid for it, it has more effects than the others stock at the entry level, if you want the upgrades, it's a hell of a lot less expensive than buying all the quality effects units that might get you some of these effects and still not do what the upgrades can do... ITS AN OPTION!!! Don't go into MELTDOWN!!!! IT's ok, it's an O P T I O N!!! :D Like Eric Johnson said, "Option Anxiety!" Don't stress Ladies and Gentlemen :) lolol! You can always go back to using Tube amps and pedal boards and pack it all around :D Or just plug into an amp and not have the hassle of Option Anxiety!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you for sharing!

[@zakklee2556]

Ordered the Kemper player. Planning to upgrade to LVL 3.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you for sharing your final choice!

[@dzamora9256]

Nice video👍. did you took into account the latency in the null test?

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Yes, the wave files have been aligned at sample point level. Also the LUFS of each wave file have been aligned. Thanks!

[@benriveramusic]

Nice comparison thank you 🙌

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome and I'm happy that you appreciate the comparison!

[@DimonFromhell]

big thanks for your comparison

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You re welcome and I'm happy that you appreciate the video!!!

[@ivanbebic6688]

I've been following your channel for a long time, I really like what you do - one question, since there is a lot of talk that QC sounds plastic compared to other - kemper, tonex...your experience?😊

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Hi, this is pretty personal....I don't think QC profiles are more plastiky than the others honestly. But of course each one has his own experience and way of "feeling" the sounds / tones. Thank you!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much for being part of our community since so long!!! It means a lot to me!!!

[@ivanbebic6688]

@@LeoGibsonGtr Thanks :)

[@Margilio5150]

I think price-wise both are outside of my list, thank you for mentioning Kemper’s Paid updates, definitely not a trend I would like to see in the future. I’d go with a Tonex One even if it doesn’t have similar I/O options. Only because I use a real pedal amp as my main rig and this would be a backup unit.

[@algorithm007ify]

latency is larger with Tonex if you want to add post delay/reverb digital effects.

[@duncancartledge1667]

Great comparison, as always you go the extra mile with Null tests. It’s helped me decide that the Kemper player is not the unit for me. I’m tempted by the Nano Cortex but happy with Tonex first now, the delay in Nano Cortex is appealing, I only tend to use room reverb in the Tonex so Cortex having only 1 is not an issue for me. I would miss the compressor though, I use it as post in Tonex to give a little bit if polish to captures and it’s a great tool for balancing preset volumes. How would you say the capture process compares with Tonex? Is it easier to get the levels balanced, especially the signal to your amp? Hoping you are planning to do a comparison of Tonex and Nano Cortex 👍 Have a great day .

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you! The ToneX profiling process is all software base and I don't need to change a single cable of my amp rig etc...where with the nano I have to cable everything from scratch. On the other hand the Nano perform the training process very quickly , where ToneX takes ages on my Mac... Thanks!

[@duncancartledge1667]

@@LeoGibsonGtr Yes, I’ve got my Tonex set up so that, if I’m playing through an amp , I can just open the PC app and hit Capture. Really easy and convenient. I invested in a new gaming PC a while back so my capture times are good, under 5 minutes for default and around 17 for advanced. I’m spending a bit more time in getting the reamp levels balanced ( just invested in a multimeter for this). Still interested in the Nano Cortex though 🤣

[@guitartoneSA]

Great video, Leo. 👋👍 Thanks for taking the time. So if I understand correctly, when using the Gain/EQ controls on the two units, the Kemper tone accuracy compared to the original amp that was Profiled/Captured is 18% more accurate than the QC when adjusting the Gain/EQ controls of a Liquid Profile?

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much! Yes, you are correct....thanks to the tone stack "pre installed" in the Kemper, it is more accurate in managing the change of the setting. Of course you in the Kemper the tone stack of the amp you want to profile.

[@agusg.t.8950]

No need to sell my Kemper toast for a nano cortex 😊

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you for sharing!

[@guitartoneSA]

Not only that, you can now boast that the Gain and EQ controls on your Toaster when using a Liquid Profile are 18% more accurate and authentic to the original amps Gain and EQ controls than the the QC.

[@geekrobot9785]

Thank you for your science!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome!!!

Thank you for this!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome!!!

[@legonlp0]

Insert Tonex in the next comparison?

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Maybe....😀😀 Thank you for your suggestion!!!

[@legonlp0]

@@LeoGibsonGtr thank you for your services, you is the best from youtube!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much for such an amazing compliment!

[@Sitiben]

+1 great comparison. Would love one with Tonex as well! Thank you, Leo

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Yes, I'm working on ToneX vs Nano...stay tuned....😀

[@MrStrato81]

Hi Leo, it would be a good idea to compare these recent capture devices with the older Mooer Preamp Live. I know it's not the same technology, but looking back at old reviews it seems to have generally given good results and positive reviews. It would be nice to compare it as a "cheap" alternative that also captures amps, albeit in a different way (and cheap without expensive upgrades).

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you for your suggestion!!

[@nitevisionimages]

@@LeoGibsonGtr I have the Preamp Live so I'd love to see this comparison

[@svetloba13]

You are a doctor compared to other famous you tubers.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

😀 thank you

[@hbo001]

Hi Leo, Nice demo song! I dont know which one to choose. Probabaly none. and if I had all these amps you have it's not even a question :) How did you record them? Miced or IRs? I found that I can get very similar results when using the same IRs between the amp and simulations but they both lack something which is in mice'd cab.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Hi, thank you, I'm really happy that you appreciate the song!!! I typically record miking the amps...also because I love my preamps.

[@andrezcabara2774]

Thank you Leo. I expected the Nano Cortex would do better in a Null test. However, I felt I liked "profile1" most as it did not seem to remove the "rawness" of the actual amp. But then, I may be biased, since I own a Kemper Stage. However, I definitely liked "profile1" better over "profile2". Which profile did you use for Null tests? Did you do Null tests for both profiles? So, while I accept the Null test, I wonder how valuable this actually is. Many audiophiles prefer tube amps because they like the sound better, even though the THD is much worse compared to solid state amps. Just because an amp has an ultra-low THD value doesn't mean people will enjoy listening to it more. The Kemper seems to "improve" accuracy when making changes to the original profile? So, after making changes, the accuracy of the Kemper was just as good as the Nano Cortex with the original settings? Given the price, you'd prefer the Nano Cortex. Now, if both were the same price, would you still feel that way? What I'd love to see is a double blind test. I.e. you play the recorded amp and modelers (A, B, C), and have people vote what they think (1) like best, and (2) is more accurate. Then get a poll and publish the findings. I'd love to see how much that reflects Null tests. I always look forward to watch your content!

[@giovannidelmastro3760]

Recensione molto dettagliata come ormai siamo abituati. La scelta è molto individuale e dipende da numerosi fattori. Nel mio caso specifico la mia scelta andrebbe sul nano cortex se avesse avuto la possibilità di inserire comp e drive nel Preamp. Quelli che ci sono a me e tanti altri non servono. Inspiegabile. Per questo motivo vado sul kemper anche se costa in più.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Grazie Giovanni! Concordo con te: mancanza di distorsioni e compressori nel nano...è veramente inspiegabile...

[@Filocitas]

Good job 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much!!!

[@mirelroberts7007]

This is exactly what i was hoping someone would compare side by side. 😊 The massive wall of CD's gives me slight anxiety though 😅

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

I'm happy that you appreciate the video! 😀...

[@GeorgeBacan]

Come va, Leo? 🙂 How do you compare those units, even their big brothers, with a good audio interface and the use of plugins to get realistic tube amp sounds? Grazie! 🎸🎶

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Ciao George, if you don't need to carry around amp simulator for gigging....plugins and audio interface provide amazing results in my opinion Thank you!

[@hannesganahl6384]

Thank you for the comparison! To me, the nano cortex is useless with this limitations on effects. Even the tonex pedal has more choises... With the paid Upgrades the kemper player is nearly perfekt, but expensive... I still hope, that IK Multimedia will bring a new device, that can do what the kemper player with the upgrades can do, but for a fair price!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome! Thank you for sharing your findings! Yes....a new device or an important fw upgrade would be nice from IK....

[@michelmeijer]

Thanks👍

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You are welcome!

[@vitalynewman1315]

wow, very nice playing

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you soooo much....when you like my playing....I'm super happy!!!

[@guivasconcelos21]

I still think that for a All-In-One approach the kemper player gives us more options and also has a great tone.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you for sharing!

[@mauriciocollantes7230]

Great video! 👍Please, i would like to know a couple things: - If you connect only the L output of the Nano, it becomes mono? or is it always a stereo device? - If you use a short TRS to XLR cable in the output for connecting a long XLR to the mixer, the Nano will be protected against phantom power? Or we need a DI box? Thanks so much!

[@Alex_Martz]

Excellent comparison as always! I agree the nanocortex is a disappointment and at that price point I'd rather go with a full ToneX unit but if I wanted to save money I'd choose the small ToneX One and the extra money I'd use it for a 2nd hand HX Effects, BTW the paid upgrades for Kemper are ridiculous and a rip-off

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much, I'm really happy that you appreciate the video! Thank you also for sharing your opinion and your findings!

[@torrezani]

Hey Leo, are you gonna test the $300 upgrades for the kemper ??

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

I have a Gear News video coming that talk about it...but I have not planned a specific video testing the FX...do you think it is worth doing? Thanks!

[@torrezani]

@@LeoGibsonGtr yes, your videos are great 😁

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you so much!!!!

[@RELAXALOT]

Hello Leo, what do you think about the feeling of both units? I tried them both (the last days) but I like the direct response of the Kemper way better. To me it feels much more as an real tube amp while the nano cortex for me feels like a PC plugin in a small box. Regarding feel, directness and response I prefere the Kemper overall units and plugins I tried so far ( and I tried really a lot of the available stuff, like you :-)). I think when you come from a VST plugin background you will not realisiere the difference but compared to a real amp...., for me this is a very important point. Great videos by the way! Cheers Markus

[@danielferrera8773]

It's a little bit strange since I have never played a Kemper but I'd say it's the best feeling one. Not sure how to describe it but it's the more amp-like sound and dynamics, even if it can be a little bit less similar to the actually profiled amp, however it interacts more (and better) like an amp is supposed to do...

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

THakn you for sharing your experience!

[@coobanez777]

Hi Leo, thanks for this video! Questions for your expertise: Is it possible to set up the Nanocortex stereo outputs to have: 1. one output sends the signal chain with an IR (ie. to be sent to front of house or direct); while simultaneously 2. the second output sends the signal chain without an IR (ie. to be sent to a power amp and cab)? I've heard a suggested trick to set up a stereo IR, with one side of the stereo IR having the IR and the other side having nothing, effectively creating an IR bypass. However, some responses say this won't work as the Nanocortex only splits to stereo at the post-amp modulation block and not at the IR block. Is this true? Thank again!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Hi, as far as I know it is NOT possible....I have also check out the app, but I have not found any possible setting about this configuration. Maybe I'm missing something, but maybe here is better to ask to Neural DSP Thank yoU!

[@vomito72]

Seriously ...If Kemper can be upgraded via software in that way it means the CPU could deal with all the blocks but it was limited on purpose to make more money with the new upgrades , I would call it a scam

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Yes, it was planned since the begging of the Player release...

[@gfitness3150]

Exactly.

[@nickg476]

That’s exactly correct up to the point where you say it’s a scam. Kemper openly talked about tiered upgrades at time of release. I don’t need more than what the player offers out of the box, but it’s pretty cool that I can get a compact nearly full blown Kemper when I want to for a little more. 🤘

[@BlackWylde]

If the capability exists within the unit already, could it not be hacked? surprised no one has figured out how yet lol

[@hbo001]

​@@BlackWylde what do you want to hack there? It's missing the sw which provides additional functionality. It maybe cracked to install to different units but that's different story.

[@bartlettpsj]

Awesome video. I have original QC and Kemper. Kemper with the Kones is my in room solution whereas QC and studio monitor is my recording solution. Does kemper player support Kones as that’s the differentiator for me. QC and FRFR is no comparison.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you , I'm really happy that you appreciate the video! Thank you also for sharing your experience...interesting point about the cone....

[@algorithm007ify]

Kemper player does support Kemper Kone/Kabinet.

[@kuyakoi3469]

I always think of that Real Pink Taco amp, such an awesome imagination i can make

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

it's a great amp!

[@ExiledGeist]

Everything can change with a new firmware, a device can change so drastically... The beauty of digital.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Yes, thank you for sharing!

[@thanksforwatching73]

Thanks!

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

You re welcome!!!

[@lesternarvaez6151]

Hi Leo. I’m very grateful to you. Thanks very much. It’s possible a comparison between Nano Cortex vs. line6 Hx Stomp or what do you think about it? Thanks Man 💪🏼🎸🙌🏼

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you soooo much! It is for sure an interesting comparison...I have to think about it...thank you for your suggestion!

[@chrisman212121]

I am surprised that the latency of the nano is not lower. Thought that its idea is exactly to reduce the components so that it gets better performance/ latency (for example the Tonex One has about 1. something ms if I remember correctly from your video). Probably latency in the nano comes from the time effects, very interesting.

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Hi, yes, I was surprise too... The latency should not derive from time effect but from the ADA converters I guess... Thank you!

[@otfan522botjournalismisdea2]

Nice video. I think both units have some odd design choices and in the case of kemper a very steep price

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Thank you, I'm happy that you appreciate the video! Thank you also for sharing your opinion!

[@LorisEmanuelCianni]

Ciao Leo. Sto impazzendo con tutti sti aggeggi. Quale sinceramente suona meglio secondo te tra nanocortex, tonex, ampero stomp 2. Mi interessano solo i suoni, niente cose in più

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Ciao Loris, come puoi immaginare ricevo sempre tantissime richieste di suggerimento circa quale sia l'unità migliore...ma sfortunatamente non esiste un'unità migliore in tutto ... c'è sempre qualche compromesso, qualche scelta diversa tra un'unità e l'altra...etc. Cerco di fare questi video per darvi la possibilità di scegliere la migliore, in funzione dei vostri bisogni. Scusami e grazie per la comprensione

[@LorisEmanuelCianni]

@@LeoGibsonGtr grazie a te per la risposta. Quindi l'unica è provarli di persona.

[@malliakoschristos]

Great video @Leo Gibson. Would you be able to tell us what's the latency between changing presets? Is there a dead time between presets on the nanocortex that would be obvious when playing live if you were to change from clean to distortion?

[@LeoGibsonGtr]

Hi, thank you! This is an interesting topic...I have to study more the devices, to be sure that there is nothing like scenes etc... Thanks!