Why I still don't gig the Quad Cortex...

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[@SteveSterlacci]

What do you think of this debate?! Which side are YOU on?

[@tonchuazkarreta1262]

On your side! Long live XLStomp!!

[@EzraMF]

@@tonchuazkarreta1262 and the non XL version too!

[@jhnoliver]

While I respect sides, I personally love my QC, made a living with it, be it, church gigs, wedding gigs, cocktail hour gigs, band gigs and bar gigs. With the QC and the guitar of my choice, traveling and gigging has been the easiest its ever been! 🙏🏼 thats my opinion atleast

[@SteveSterlacci]

Thats all fine n dandy!

[@Mikee535]

As a 62 year old tech who has logged thousands of hours building PAs touring live and studio sound, playing in a live situation all the time... it DEPENDS. There is one guy I know of who is in a very famous band and has a fractal and he is an AMAZING guitarist. well.. his sound sucks it too fizzy too much gain because he don't know how to program digital gear. I have discussed it with his bandmates but you just can't tell him he in inadequate at programming a processor please go back to your Marshall or Fender tube amp. SO there's that. Me.. I learned to program the quad cortex in short order and love it, you do gotta be careful how you stomp on it I wouldn't bet my life on it. A JCM800 and a backup, yes I would bet my life on it. But I play in bands that are not top level and if I screw up with my settings its no big deal. At a high level on stage with out a tech doing the switching for you... no freakin way!!

[@joeygentile7829]

Your points are valid, but the UI is awesome and the amps really sound great without a lot of tweaking. I’m very happy with my QC and gig it regularly. I even have a backup in the event of unforeseen issues.

[@joerobinson2538]

Very valid points. Due to major back issues, I have to sit and play at gigs. In my case the QC is perfect. I have it on a sturdy music stand right in front of me. I can make changes just using my finger on the touch screen. It’s been really nice dialing in my presets having the ability to tweak settings while playing. When I’m able to return to standing and playing I think I will get one of those Mastermind LT (8 button footswitch) units and use it to control the QC via midi-the buttons are spaced further apart. So I would have the Mastermind on a small pedalboard with a couple of my favorite additional effects and just have the QC sitting to the side of the pedalboard. This would also fix the issue of having the QC permanently mounted to a board since it’s so useful to have it as a stand alone unit at home for recording.

[@picksalot1]

I don't have a QC, but everything you said sounds pragmatic and reasonable to me.

[@SteveSterlacci]

I tried to be fair!

[@saunds59]

Pretty much agree with all your points Steve. Bought it 18 months ago to gig instead of my Helix, but I haven’t used it live yet, although it is now much, much better following the last two updates.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Yes! An important point is that it IS getting there...

[@kriszrocks]

Hey Steve, I gig the QC EVERY week and I really don't have any problems with heating (even a few weeks at Cyprus where we nearly had 34 degrees with a 70% humidity, the QC does it without any problems). The power cable is crap for sure, but really didnt have any problems with it on tour (4 weeks, every day). The size factor is not important to me although I have some pedals on my board. Of course its a matter of the size of the board. Also footswitch wise I didn't have any big issues with the tap of the buttons. Sure there was 1-2 times a mistake where I pressed both, but hey dude that happens to me also on a Kemper or on a regular pedalboard....so for me really no arguments, why not to choose the QC for live.. 😉✌🏻️

[@revjeffg]

I’ve been gigging mine for about a year, I love it. My only big complaint is the button spacing, and how easily you can accidentally wind up getting “lost in the stepping”, as you did, lol. I get that they wanted to make it compact, but for practicality sake I wish they just made the thing a *little larger.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Totally!!!! And I think scribble strips should be an automatic for a unit in this price range. Should at least be able to name the actual footswitches

[@straygar]

@@SteveSterlacci You can name your footswitches from the gig view!

[@SteveSterlacci]

@@straygar i mean scribble strips above the physical switch

[@sandman4asleep]

well steve complained about the unit not being spacey enough to step on the buttons and also about not being pedal board friendy. Manufacturers have make a choice and you should not be complaining about both at the same time I think.

[@PeteDHeat]

I agree with some of the stuff you’re pointing out. I got the QC at launch and I’ve been gigging with it ever since. I’ve never had an issue with it over heating. I will occasionally hit one foot switch over the other and have to do the good ol tap dance but it’s not at every gig. I’ve never hit the change page button when gigging lol hopefully I didn’t jinx myself. The delay issue you brought up is easily fixable with each scene being able to have their own setting independently. I’ve also color coded the scenes with this newest update so it’s so much easier to look and tell them apart. I actually really like the touch screen. I had an Ax Fx before and I hated going through the process of editing my presets and etc… it’s infinitely easier for me with the QC. I totally agree when it comes to all of these units sounding incredible if you know how to dial it in. I also think it’s annoying how the rows are set up. Hopefully they can make that a little less annoying lol

[@SteveSterlacci]

I am not sure what you mean by the delay issue. Its great to hear its stood up to the gig test. I almost wish I didn't have so much confidence in the HX so I would be more willing to play it out

[@PeteDHeat]

@@SteveSterlacci I think you were talking about stomping the delay and accidentally hitting the page up/down switch. You can have a delay/trem/any timed based effect have its own setting for each individual foot switch after the newest update. If you do that you don’t have to worry about stomping a specific one on the go and risk hitting the page up/down.

[@SteveSterlacci]

@PeteDHeat i think you're talking about hitting the tap tempo portion of that. Its a waste of a scene for only 1 tempo change IMO. Plus, I play more than 8 songs and use 1 preset typically. So I wouldn't be able to swing that. My point was more the actual pressing the tap tempo

[@PeteDHeat]

@@SteveSterlacci Aah, gotcha! Works out well for me because I have each scene be set up for a different song and I use the same effects for all of them. I just tweak what I need to match whatever song I’m playing and save it under that specific scene.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Whatever gets the job done!

[@jeremylewis2171]

Last gig my QC got rained on which affected the screen. The screen was switching to different screens every time water hit it and then I had power issues which caused it to keep turning off. Long story short, I covered it up and got clean power to it and it worked out. Not ideal conditions to use the QC in. Every other gig I’ve never had an issue with mine however I’m going back to using my Friedman amp with the Captor X. Still love my QC though and it’s great for gigs you need to pack up quick. Real amps will always be tried and true though.

[@heyyougenee]

I use the QC the first Sunday I got it. Moving on from the Helix LT, from then on I’ve never turned back. The portability and DSP power has it for me. It’s as easy to dial in sounds as it is. No complains for me though.

[@MrHitthespot]

The only problem I had using it live was getting used to the button layout. They are a little bit too close together. However after a short period of time I had no problems hitting the correct switch. Everything has a learning curve. I have a beautiful pedal board with the Quad, and I don’t use the factory power supply. You should see the pictures of my board.

[@tstu1701]

Thanks for the video! I've gigged the HX Stomp, Helix, and now Quad Cortex. I agree with all of your points, but... with all of these after a few gigs or rehearsals I get used to their quirks. I like the extra buttons on the QC (over the Stomp) and I like the 4 lbs over 14 (on the Helix). I used a small midi controller for extra buttons on the Stomp, but still prefer the built in ones. Try a Temple Audio pedal board! I have the Duo 17, and I'm able to power the QC with a Cioks SOL under the board and a Strymon Cloudburst and expression pedal on top.

[@legzalez]

Works fine for me. I have live gigs twice a week. I use it on a small pedal board, with a external mini compressor, Ts9 and wampler dual pantheon. All powered by a cioks dc7. I get your point, but in my case, none of the issues you are having apply. Thanks for the video!

[@joehandmusic]

dig your product vids. Always thoughtful and excellent for the working player.

[@musicafteroldage]

I agree 100%. I am glad I didn't get it (I had it in the cart already - got the hLT instead). It's not about the sound, specially now. Like you said, they all sound good! You can't tell the difference in the mix! (I've been using both BIAS FX and the GP-100 at church and I dare anyone to tell what I am using). Like the great John Nathan Cordy (who sometimes decides to post videos first just to upset you! haha) said to me regarding the sound quality of modelers nowadays: "It's about the guitar player's ego" Unfortunately, that came as no surprise...I am too old (and broke) to have an ego, so I have no problem using anything available haha Thanks man!

[@billkline1450]

I had a QC and really enjoyed it, great sounds and easy to use. I ultimately got rid of it and went back to a Kemper stage (which is so much better than it used to be). I finally decided that I dont want to support the company and the unit. I find the lack of updates and broken promises, while pumping out plug ins left and right, to be enough for me to wait for a solid company to give us the equivalent soon

[@ultranadax6852]

Decided to sell my QC primarily due to the fact that at their current pace of updates, the hardware will be obsolete by the time they get around to what it should’ve had at release. The actual features existing vs what was promised is abysmal. Nevermind how they handled the security flaw / private information breach. Super disappointed all around.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Yep. Those are all realities they will have to live with. And if they decide to ditch the unit for the next gen before that point, theyd be in big trouble probably

[@towardstar]

its gonna end up the dreamcast of modellers if that happens

[@SteveSterlacci]

@@towardstar thats such a great comparison!!!

[@DavidEidelberg]

All valid. One thing I hate is when they say they are going to do something, like switch to a normal file structure and then don’t. What they ended up switching to wasn’t much better than what they had in the first place. Add to all of that being stuck with their cloud and no way to back up and restore to your own pc. They said that will come with the desktop editor, but I’ll believe it when I see it.

[@raymondforbes4295]

There are definitely things I agree with, and things I don't necessarily agree with. First, what I agree with: a) the lanes. Abosfnglutely. Seems like a pretty small software change to allow that, why they don't I have no idea. b) button lay out. Yeah, This isn't great. Add to that, you have to do a hold press for the tuner. I screw that up on stage all the time. c) desktop editor. I probably won't use it but a modern device without one seems silly. Admittedly, the UI is the most usable UI on the market but not everybody wants to work on their stretches to edit patches. :) d) the update schedule is far, far too slow. e) all of them sound amazing, it really does come down to preference. What I don't agree with: a) hardware architecture. While I agree with the power supply comment, the build quality is kind of amazing of this unit. Vents where they are located, the frame being a heat sync. These are all good things. I am curious how long it will have to be used on touring rigs before you feel it has been adequately tested? b) pedal board friendliness. I think it is odd to compare this to the HXLT. The HXLT has significantly less features than the QC so if all you need can be done with the HXLT it doesn't really make much sense to use something like a QC. It just seems like a waste of money. The actual competitors, on the other hand, are the Fractal AxeFX, the FM9, and the Helix. The QC is far FAR more pedal board friendly than any of those units. Overall, though, I think I mostly agree. Honestly, I love my QC but if I was playing through a Helix I would love that. And if I was playing through an AxeFX I would definitely love that.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Good conversation here! Its not the LT that I use, its the HX XL. I simplified my rig to just have the bare necessities and honestly its been liberating as a player. If I can get good base tones and all I need to fit on the board I want to take, its a win for me. Plus, the HX XL and Helix tones are identical, so its just form factor within the restraints of the XL. And even so, the QC does not offer many more features outside of the amp capturing and touch screen (which doesnt appeal to me since I would still rather a desktop edit). Command center in the HX is better than any of the gig views and its not even close, parameter controls being assigned to footswitches WITHOUT burning a scene is also possible on the HX and not possible on QC, the uplit buttons are also way easier to see from a stage. There are a lot of points for a product thats half the price! Thanks for adding to this conversation. Your experience and insight is invaluable to the community reading

[@raymondforbes4295]

@@SteveSterlacci Oops, heh, I see that now. Line 6 has some many offerings I actually get them a bit confused. :) The touch screen has been super invaluable for me as it is so easy for me to quickly reach down and make any changes I might want to make on the fly. That has worked so well for me. Isn't it possible to create a tone on the Helix that the HX XL can't play due to it's limited processing power? That alone would show the constraint of the HX XL. Now, if you would never create a tone that complex, speaks to need as well.

[@MetalTerrorist]

That whole issue with accidentally stomping on adjacent foot switches and winding up in different presets/modes is a nightmare of mine. I’ve done it live and it really sucks. Being able to program what foot switches do and don’t do is essential to me. Just one of many Helix UI/functionality features I love.

[@sugarprobe]

When it comes to the power supply I actually prefer it over iec for my use. It’s mounted on my temple audio board and all my pedals are powered off ciox dc7. But if I was only using it as a stand alone unit I’d rather have iec.

[@dconleygtr]

I have had one since they launched. I intended to replace my big Helix with it, as I love the tones from the NDSP plugs. That hasn't happened yet. Like you said, it's getting closer, and the desktop editor will be a big plus as editing on the touch screen is annoying.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Yep. SOOOOON!!!

[@Imfreehowaboutu]

Love the QC. I have mine in a rack with the rest of my rig and use an Airstep with a WIDI Master to control it wirelessly. I have never had a better sounding or more functional rig.

[@TheSeanCreagh]

Would glow-in-the-dark tape and a sharpy not fix the labeling issue?

[@Scott__C]

I agree 100% about it's on the player. Some don't want to deal with a modeler, and that's OK. Don't. Some (like me) hate building pedalboards and having to wire it all up. I've tried a couple of the Headrush products. They sound great, but the interface and no computer editor don't do it for me. See which one you like and go with it. I love the Boss, Line6 and Atomic products. They're all great and provide lots of variation. I hope Atomic comes out with an update for those 6 and 12 button units, they're great. Haven't tried Fractal or Quad, so I can't speak to them. Also, for nearly $2k, to not have an IEC power connector is lame.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Awesome! Thanks for adding your experience. I hate building boards as well

[@georgelmp9079]

Now I have to ask u because I think you’re at least honest. So… I currently own and gig the helix floor unit for the last year and a half or so… I’m not disappointed in any way except pitch shifting “pedals” (especially the kinda whammy ones). Also, due to its size it’s the least pedalboard friendly device compare it to the QC or the hex stomp. I really consider buying the QC for no other reason than to place it on a board with other overdrives (mainly) and for the whole Capture thing (some may say better than a Kemper). Because I gig a lot mainly on summertime and I’m from corfu where humidity goes like 500% outside I simply have 3 questions. 1) Is the capture really that easy to use and good-sounding? 2) Is the co-operation with other pedals working at least with a certain amount of quality in the tone? 3) Is it built to last? Thanks in advance!!!

[@georgelmp9079]

Also, great review. Thanks!

[@SteveSterlacci]

Hey George! Thanks for writing. I have always opted for an HX XL with real pedals. If you need travel friendly and all in one, the QC is great and I may be doing my 2024 tour with it. Built to last in extreme humidity? No idea, but I would have the most confidence in Helix for availability in case anything ever goes wrong... it's big, but reliable and easily replaceable

[@Escapism7133]

I completely agree with the spacing of the footswitches being too small and the bank down footswitch being far too easy to hit while using tap tempo. The latter could be easily fixed with software update to add the ability to lock specific footswitches (similar to the locking of the master volume and touchscreen feature). I still think the Quad Cortex sounds amazing, and it ticks a lot of boxes, but it's these minor design details that can make a huge difference. To top it off, I'm currently sending mine to Finland for warranty repair because I'm having CPU malfunctions.

[@jesterraj]

What speakers do or is best for modeler to go thru??

[@ryanshook8284]

I've tried every modeler and the Quad Cortex is the most gig-able thang out there. Its stock cabs and stock amps, even in the first iteration firmware was great. I had a guitarist in my band had their modeler fail mid gig....I said hey plug into my unit (at the same time I was playing) and he freaked out. WOW HOWD YOU GET THIS TONE?! uhh...just loaded up a jcm800, loaded the 90s v30 mesa 4x12 and done. I didn't even tweak it. Just made him his own lane for routing so he can plug in and route out to his own channel in the mixer in the PA. True story. Was at a paid wedding gig too.

[@SteveSterlacci]

That's awesome! Qc is absolutely a beast in that regard

[@phowell333]

I had a power supply custom made, and mounted it very securely to my board. It has taken caren of the joke of a power connector included with the unit

[@BrianVallotton]

I have had the QC since January. I like it but I do not love it. It sits on my desk and I don't use it much. I put together a Pedaltrain Nano 18" that I actually use at church each week. So my pedalboard is my main thing. As time goes by I am hoping to find myself using both. It is great to have choices! God bless you Steve and I always enjoy your vids. By the way my board at church is: Keeley Compressor Plus> Keeley AT Super Mod>UA Dream>Strymon Cloudburst>Keeley Halo to FOH. I keep all the settings on the low side and so I get a slightly ambient edge of breakup sound.

[@pino_7428]

Use it live all the time. Helix is better to use live but for me is so much easier to dial in a tone in the QC. Helix when I use my amps, QC is I go direct.

[@SteveSterlacci]

What are your go to live amps?

[@BobbyCulpepper.srv3fender]

steve, i feel your pain, but i got some solutions to a few of the problems. I been gigging hard with mine for almost a year now. for the ventilation i use a small temple audio board with dual lock, so between the holes in the temple board and the height of the dual lock, it gets plenty of venting. Then i keep a small white towel to place over the top when not playing but when in direct sunlight. For the wireless, i just dual lock the wireless receiver underneath the temple board, i saw someone else do this and tried it, works great as long as theres no channel conflictions (i use line6 wireless). Next for the power supply i use the powersupplies sold on reverb hand made for the qc with extra 9v outlets. These a great powersupplies and also power the wireless with it..... As for the rest of the problems with QC, well keep in mind, it was designed by a bass player, and even worse, a metal bass player

[@SteveSterlacci]

I am glad it finally made it off of your desk! I remember when you got one you went through some frustration. It gives me hope hearing that youve been able to use it more

[@LivinginLosAngeles-re5yx]

Really valid point he makes, every modeler will be perfect for someone. One man's heaven is another man's hell. I have a Kemper Floor and HR Prime, and both are super cool with their own personality, wouldn't sell either. There is no "best" modeler. 👍

[@SteveSterlacci]

Well said! Thanks for tuning in. I will have some HRP content coming soon as well

[@aaronthomas7790]

I returned mine because of noise issues and crummy power supply. The button spacing and lack of software editor drove me crazy too. Love the touchscreen though and some great sounds.

[@Candyman_Young]

I had thought about getting a QC and went FM3 instead. I'm pretty glad I did. I enjoy the workflow better than what I'm seeing with this.

[@agustiniglesias5255]

whats ´s your opinion about the head rush mx5, for metal style?

[@khay2210]

The editor makes thing a lot easier, but because I don't have the QC on a pedal board, I hardly use the editor, but it's really great to have tbh, personally I don't have anything to complain about, but it would be amazing to have the Archetypes on the QC.

[@jmsmusic]

Excellent points. I own the QC, used it weekly, love it, and hate it at the same time. The rows thing really beggars belief, and the fact that we still don't have transparent tap tempo. I think they do need to expand their beta testers group and definitely take in more consumer feedback. but of course, easier said than done.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Absolutely! Honestly, I was on their beta testing team. I went on tour and told them Id be MIA for a few weeks and was removed without notice. They just removed me from the chat and revoked the access. IDT They ever considered any of the guys in theres opinion anyway

[@jmsmusic]

That's pretty crazy that they would do that. Sometimes I feel like its an echo chamber for them. We do get incremental updates and all, but only a very small number of people's opinions actually matter. Feature requests on the forum are pointless if that's the case.

[@harrisondvargo72]

Bought a HX Stomp due to the versatility and the positive community opinion. The QC has so many issues between the hardware, software, and the company itself. Been very happy with Line6. They sold me Helix Native for $75 after I bought the stomp. Neural wants $100 or more per plugin. HARD PASS.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Another great point! Native just has everything built in...

[@DoctorMcFarlandStudios]

Just ordered the FM9 turbo...again after trading it away for a AXE FX III and FC-12. im keeping the AXE in the studio and will use FM9 at church or jamming. If I played in a band full time I would definitely use the FM9. QC switches are way to close for me and it prefer the QC on a desktop instead of sitting on a stage. I prefer an IEC cable as well instead of a Wal-Wart.

[@djpgreek]

I really love your honesty in this video

[@jittboy1]

I love what you had to say but will ask what band is it a sponsored tour like a major label band or festivals and bars just curious?

[@SteveSterlacci]

You can look up country artist Jessica Lynn. We are an independent act, have had multiple concert specials on PBS, toured all around Europe and the US doing pretty much the whole gammit of venues. Theres a 2023 hightlight reel you can find on her youtube. Thanks for checking out the video!

[@jittboy1]

@@SteveSterlacci I did, love your channel . I thought you were going to say shinedown or something. She sounds good. I toured with quiet riot ratt wrote for expose. So you understand when someone I don’t know says tour I have a different picture . No offense again love what you said. I don’t tour anymore just write for national artist now major label artist I should say. Thanks again band sounds great wish you the best!

[@dcthegreatest24]

Larger board, scribble strips, better power plug, ability to capture ALL pedal types, color coded buttons like HX. Is it still giving a huge delay between switching presets? If they could fix all the things that should have already been done upon release I would buy one and use it exclusively

[@nigelwilliams3311]

I think the Quad Cortex had a lot of promise when it was launched, but almost all of that promise was based on promises that did not materialise. The selling points were the touchscreen and captures, and all the other stuff that was supposed to appear very shortly after launch. That did not happen, and the Quad Cortex is still lacking basic features and useability that other products had years ago. I already had a Helix when I got the QC, and I have since bought an Axe-Fx3. Both are better featured, easier to use, and have many times more amps, pedals, etc. Now that Tonex and Headrush Prime have appeared, both of which can do captures, I struggle to see why anyone would buy a Quad Cortex. I think that sales will plummet, and Neural will have no incentive to waste any more resources on it. It will take too much work to make it competitive, and even if Neural tried to do it, Line 6 and Fractal will leapfrog them before they achieved anything.

[@nigelwilliams3311]

@@Utube-g3g I find it hard to see how you could have read in to my comment that I had "never tried one". I said that "I already had a Helix when I got the QC, and I have since bought an Axe-Fx3". I still own all 3 units. Not only have I tried a Quad Cortex, I have bought and paid for one, and used it extensively. I have done the same with Helix and Axe-Fx3. I have all 3 units permanently connected to my FRFR speakers, and I frequently compare amp emulations by connecting my guitar through a Morley ABC/Y switcher. Consequently I believe I am well qualified to compare Quad Cortex with Helix and Axe-Fx3. Can you say the same?

[@aapddd]

Interesting insight. I was still in the market for a quad cortex. Now I might consider an alternative. The axe fx has better sounds than the Helix but I couldn’t get on with it because of it’s endless tweakability. I need a high quality unit with the best amp sounds.

[@nigelwilliams3311]

@@aapddd I'm not convinced that any of these units have better sounds. I have all 3 hooked up to my FRFR rig, and I can swap my guitar between them with an ABC/Y pedal to compare amp emulations. They are not usually identical, even when I try to dial them in the same way, but they are close. I would not say any of them are "better" in terms of sound. We also have to bear in mind that real amps of the same type rarely sound exactly the same. What I do find is that it can be any one of them that happens to produce a particular sound that I am looking for with a particular guitar. For me it still comes down to features and ease of use, and the Quad Cortex is the loser in that respect.

[@probass_on_repeat]

I think also, it takes habitual usage to understand some of the engineering behind a rig. Not habitual testing, but habitual usage. Where the rig is indeed your go to. Then you may begin to understand some of the intention that was put around that console. All in All, great POV

[@scottakam]

All fair points. It's a hobby vs. business thing I think. A hobbyist may not mind some bugs and other problems. When you use something for business, like you do, reliability and supportability will always trump some bleeding edge features.

[@3mstudiospalmdesert]

I wanted to get rid of my amps and board and still play my own amps and board. The Quad Cortex is the only device that can do that for me nearly perfectly. All my amps, all my cabinets. Even my awesome non-Sampson era HC 30. If I had to have a wireless on a board, I could see being tempted to mount it. In the shows I do, the engineer provides the wireless and I just use in-ears w it. I prefer the sound of my guitar w a cable. It's great that you have a choice and that Line 6 sounds work for you.

[@LouCondon-j1v]

Thanks for the video. Have you sent this to the company that makes the Quad Cortex?

[@rickthestick8]

Mine has lived on my pedalboard since launch. I love it but, yeah, the desktop editor! I hate getting down on the floor to make adjustments. Other than that, I'm super happy with the size and performance.

[@The2..]

Ive definitely gigged this thing religiously lol its a tank and it fits great on my pedal board.

[@parthmehra8630]

for me, the unintentional sound of crickets in the background goes perfect for this product😂

[@pierreblenderbuss9807]

Hey Steve-100% agree. It's a great unit BUT . . needs the desktop editor for sure. I use an Axe FX3 and an HX Stomp (and also a lot of analogue pedals, different pedalboards etc. QC scores low on basic usability--I usually want to set up my presets and plan them out and not faff about on a touchscreen. Too slow for the flexibility I need. Of course the whole issue with using the switches . . . one really needs to use an outboard controller (like a Voes, or whatever). Still, once the desktop editor is in, it's fairly portable (compared to the Axe FX3), so looking forward to that and really being able to use it in anger. Currently my QC is underutilised.

[@JohnSpo]

I keep getting e-mails for Helix and Kemper sales and new low prices so I think they're getting ready to release new hardware.

[@SteveSterlacci]

I dont think HX is ready yet, but it seems a new Kemper could be coming at this coming NAMM

[@aviator_bryan]

With size 12 shoes - I'd need ballet slippers to not accidentally hit multiple buttons LOL. For me, after 5 years gigging Helix I went to Fractal, and I'm really happy with that ecosystem. That said, if for some reason I couldn't use it, I'd go back to Helix before going with the QC. Line 6 has phenomenal customer support, and I've not heard the same about Neural DSP.

[@ndog5150]

totally with you on the desktop editor... im a helix guy and i use it all the time. can't imgine having to fiddle-fuck around with all that through the UI.

[@SteveSterlacci]

They recently released it and its pretty awesome!

[@charlesg.1207]

Had the QC for a couple of years. No heating issues yet however, I did break a foot switch already. The foot switches have a little weird mechanism in the switch. My concern is when the warranty expires and more of these switches break. Although, the warranty was great and it was a quick turnaround. I side with you on the desktop editor. I have mine dual locked to my board for gigging along with a protective screen to avoid drops and spills so I'm having to bend over to my board & lift up the damn cover every time to do any configuring or anything new, and it just gets annoying after a while. So, an editor is needed like every other device out there. I understand about the distance of the switches, I had a couple of mishaps but again, I don't think any one device is Utopia we are getting close but not there yet. I also agree with you about the annoying lanes but I guess they just have higher priorities for their road map. Maybe they're short help too who knows. 😀

[@nankleflank5645]

I love the option of 4 simultaneous rigs....using different reverbs, and cabs can result in a huge sound.

[@Guitarmann-el6iz]

Igot mine on a pedal board leaning downs not a big deal its the same as adjusting analog pedals any way to each there once your qc is set up with your pre sets and or scene your locked in ready to go

[@SteveSterlacci]

good to know!

[@JackFossett]

Everyone needs to stop this digital revolution and go back to the Line 6 Spider. Insane mode. It’s the tone we deserved, but not the one we needed… it’s complicated, but it’s pretty awesome if you think about it.

[@JohnSpo]

Desktop editor or phone app is essential! I hate making scratch presets on the helix or pod go units. I can but I'd rather not. it's way easier and more intuitive on a computer.

[@SteveSterlacci]

absolutely!

[@truescotsman4103]

I agree. I don't think the form factor is very pleasing or functional at all. Scribble strips or large numbers or some kind of unique marker is necessary IMO. Little LEDs with variable colors are just too much information. It needs to resemble a pedalboard if it's going to have a ton of buttons on it. I think it needs to be a little bit larger and sleeker. Next generation should incorporate some of these improvements hopefully.

[@readysetmoses]

No desktop editor STILL tells me all I need to know about NeuralDSP's commitment to the product and is the reason I won't buy one.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Absolutely. They do say that there is a beta version coming in October. So we will see!

[@Scott__C]

@@SteveSterlacci That's only going to be a beta version? They've been talking about it for years.

[@SteveSterlacci]

@@Scott__C yep. A public beta

[@nattesh]

Pls just try it. Desktop client would be 100% useful (I’m waiting so hard for it), but you just need three hours to get that you can get away with your tone tweaking directly via the touch display, which is ridicolously easy to use.

[@Scott__C]

@@nattesh The Headrush isn't difficult to use either, nor the Helix or GT-1000, but a full sized floor unit I'm with Steve, I don't want it on the desk and I don't want to lean down to the floor or sit on the floor to set up my tones.

[@GROCMUSICCO]

I'm sure I could find an issue with every modeler on the market today. They all have this bottle neck of features limiting you in some way or another.

[@SteveSterlacci]

I could go on all day about each ones issues! LOL

[@MrVyrtuoso]

Wishlist: 1) Allow parameter assignments to MIDI control change numbers like with the NDSP plugins, 2) desktop editor, 3) provide beat syncable parameter modulator blocks over LFO, envelope, and at least 32 if not 64 step sequencer

[@SteveSterlacci]

great list!

[@plimtaku]

Interesting content thanks. I have a QC which I use live in preference to a FM3, which I feel is better in the studio. In a recent theatre gig I found the noise floor to be so high it was dictating when I brought effects in and out. Using a gate on the output sorted the problem but it took 3 shows to figure it out. I do value the form factor and ease of use though. The recent updates brought it closer to Fractals sound too.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Thanks for checking it out! Its definitely grounded in a weird way where you need to be using an XLR. Its most likely the power supply. Wish it was just a regular IEC like the fm3.

[@briandgr8st]

Good thing I saw this video. Now I won’t even think about the QC. You’re absolutely right: the buttons are too close together. No proper spacing. Not suitable for live gigs.

[@sillyness3456]

The power brick is an absolute dealbreaker. I've tried the QC in a store and was amazed by the quick workflow and the size to functionality ratio, but tonally it didn't offer anything new. Your points make it even less appealing, especially considering the existence of Kemper and Fractal Audio units.

[@josephgoode8900]

Do you have a video where you talk about your live rig

[@SteveSterlacci]

Yes I do. I have many on the channel over the years

[@rafaelmarrero2681]

10:10 am Atlantic Time. I liked your review. I agree all modelers are good. It all depends on your" flavor ". All have pros and cons. Not that I am virtuoso..but all modelers sound great with the " starting Point".... The guitar player!

[@criticalbasstheory]

These will be out of order.... 1. Size on pedalboard. I get that. I've seen some interesting layouts for boards that integrate a QC on them. They're usually pretty simple setups. An advantage is that you can capture any peripheral devices you want to the QC and essentially remove it from your board for live playing. This obviously may compromise some sonic quality depending on the quality of the capture itself, but from a utility standpoint, that kind of negates the argument. The size itself is a little outside of the standard though. 2. touch screen UI vs switch placement for stomp mode. I can see how that would bother you, but that doesn't really bother me. 3. Desktop editor. I think this is going to go Beta soon (from what I've seen online). I also look forward to the desktop editor. That would make it SUPER easy to not only configure a preset while the unit is on the floor, but you can test and modify your stomp configurations and expression pedal configs without bending down or picking the unit up to do those mods. I'd definitely use it in that context. Aside from that, I do like having it on the table from a studio perspective. The UI is easy to work with and I can build and modify stuff pretty easily. That's my rant, and I'm sticking to it. Great video. Good points. The QC is probably the best "platform" even though some of the software isn't 100% there yet. It's like getting the most stable and best laptop hardware, but it's running Windows 98. Not terrible, but it's missing a lot.

[@julianagudelo8228]

hi Steve, I liked your video. Actually I looked it because I am trying to decide in buying a QC new ($1850), or a Helix floor used ($900) What would be your advice. thanks

[@ZAYAZOfficial]

As a player who has both, if you aren’t playing super high gain stuff, the Helix is amazing and will do it all. Also, the editor is awesome and it has an expression pedal built in. If you really have to have those crushing high gain tones, try out a QC.

[@chauncysmind]

I have the QC on my pedalboard, but using a boss es-5 midi switcher so I'm not touching the QC. I'm only using the QC for effects only in the loop of my Evh 5150 stealth. The amps in the QC are really good but I've went back to using the tube amp for now 😂 the power supply for the QC worried me a lot but now I'm powering it with Cioks DC -7 . Il go back to QC only someday tho

[@Gibson1976uk]

I don’t use any of those units :) I have a pedalboard with chase bliss, thorpyfx, Empress! I can get great basic sounds to experimental and I have been trying out non valve stuff! I use a Jazz Chorus amp now :)

[@SteveSterlacci]

nice! There are so many great options out there that you cant go wrong

[@felipegomabrockmann2740]

I live in Germany and the biggest music store here dropped the price of QC in 100 EURs. That means a lot. I own a FM3 and am so satisfied with it. I am waiting next yeah for a new release from Fractal, I would love a FM3 with the power of a FM9 in 2024

[@SteveSterlacci]

All fractal stuff is so great. I dont think anyone ever complains about them

[@robertbrown1778]

@@SteveSterlacci True, but it does erk me that their box of 6 buttons costs more than an hx stomp.

[@MarcoCiafrone]

Kemper too drop the price.

[@plimtaku]

The Fractal stuff sounds great but quick adjustments during gigs is so unintuitive that I stopped taking it to gigs. The QC is better for my purposes in that regard. If the FM3 suits you though definitely stick with it.

[@felipegomabrockmann2740]

@@plimtaku I use it only at home for Recording. But I noticed I need dual amps which is not possible with the FM3. So I am waiting 2024 for a new Release from Fractal

[@rogershermanmusic]

I'm glad you mentioned how close the switches are. I haven't had the opportunity to try the quad cortex out, but I have big feet (size 48, or about US size 13), and I sometimes feel like the buttons on my FM9 are too close together (and occasionally felt the same way with the Helix Control, before I sold my Helix Rack), and there's way more space between them. I don't think the QC would be usable for me, just because of that.

[@JoLeFo]

Ive used the Helix for years before switching to QC - at this point in time, i TOTALLY agree with everything youre pointing out in your vid! I also want to mention the annoying tap tempo screen that pops up. You cant tap tempo and instantly turn on a delay (or other stomp efx). You have to wait for the tap tempo screen to disappear (wich in most cases is somewhere in the second bar of any song played live) WHY IS THERE A TAP TEMPO SCREEN?? There shoud at least be an option to just disable this. In most live situations i already know the tempo - its - you know - the pulse ive just been tapping....

[@SteveSterlacci]

You honestly dont know how good you have it with Helix until you stop using it. Its so well thought out and still holds up. GREAT point on the tap tempo. Ill have to include that in a future rant.

[@steveclark9934]

I'm really enjoying the headrush core❤

[@landguitar]

I use one in my studio as my practice "plug-in" to my DAW. Works great. I get all the concerns you have, but in my comparisons - on YT, granted, and from hearing other units used live - it has and had the best simulations of tone of any of the modelers. I still use a real amp and pedalboard live, but I certainly get why that's not desirable for you and others. One of the guys I play with at church has a FX-8 that is becoming almost beat up, and it's apparently been very dependable for him across many, many gigs. But some of the stomp and other issues you mention seem like they could happen on any board; certainly even on my midi-controlled pedalboard. Would a desktop editor be good? For sure, if the QC was on a pedalboard. I use the RJM editor for my PBC and it's great. But your pedalboard configuration issue didn't make sense to me; like any grouping of pedals, many are different sizes and you configure it on a slightly larger board and do the puzzle piece thing! Again, I get your use desires, to have a small fly board for travel and ease of transport and use (and less concern about unknown back line amps, if any). But if I used the QC live, I would put it on a small board and it would be great. My main concern - other than I prefer real amps still - is the dependability of the QC. Even here many say they gig it regularly and have no issues, but in FB groups folks complain a lot about sudden blank screens, dead units. That scares me way more than any of the things you don't like. To me, the QC tones and sounds and captures and models are very, very good, and most of the effects as well. Are they all Eventide or Strymon or Empress or Chase Bliss level? No, but I'd probably put an H90 on a board with a QC! And what the QC does have is very usable to me; at least in my studio! If I were to try anything else, it would be an FM-9, but then you have even (larger) pedalboard size issues, or you decide you don't use a pedalboard, and then you don't have a volume or expression pedal. You have way more experience in these than me, I enjoy the perspective!

[@claudiocabrera3733]

If you have your sound, you don't need to update every month. When you buy an amp you just play and play... the same with the Kemper or the Quad Cortex.. we don't need 1,000 pedals..

[@SteveSterlacci]

None of the features mentioned through updates have to do with sound. All the sounds are there

[@MC-ov8dr]

If one of the other companies adopted a UI as dead-simple as QC I'd jump ship immediately. The lack of IEC cable is something that's bothered me ever since it came out. A helix or Fractal device with the quad cortex UI / touch screen and the durability and size of the FM3 would be so good. I love Kemper but there's no way they'd ever adopt a touch screen for anything lol

[@ahaua1]

Great, honest review!!!

[@tatt2guy86]

I'm still using real amps and a simple pedalboard. I think the processors are in the right direction but I agree they're not quite there yet. Another few years and I think companies will have it solid but it's just a lot of experimenting from the creators.

[@PatDeJongeSoundwise]

Same story here buddy. I had all the modelers and loved the FM3 the most (editor, ease of use,...). Then sold the FM3 to get the QC. Gigged it a few times and got really frustrated with the button issue..I kept hitting the wrong buttons (or 2 at the same time) all the time. We play medium sized gigs, dark stages, full r'n'r vibe, so the button switching needs to be fast and accurate. That turned out impossible. On top of that, as you said: editing the QC while it's on a board is a nightmare. I sold it and got the FM3 Turbo. Feels like coming home :)

[@SteveSterlacci]

Cant argue with that! Thanks for adding your experience

[@bobbychoi1566]

The PC version is over when it comes out on October 9th... Honestly, I use both Helix and QC, but Helix is honestly not as good as QC... Helix is a lower grade... Just looking at the pitchshift quality is too different... Honestly, if the QC PC version comes out on October 9th, there is no need to mention Helix... It's just a digital analog tone... Line 6 has always been like that. Usability, visibility, and everything QC is overwhelmingly good, but what are you talking about? Helix is better for midi, but QC is overwhelmingly better for everything else. I'm sorry, but it's a fact, right?

[@hanovergreen4091]

"...things can get ugly real quick.." Dayum! No lie! sorry but I laughed cause I understand. Man that is a LOT of physical faux pas re: buttons and functions and stage use. And those aren't fixable. Thank You for the video and Best Regards and Best Wishes to you and the missus for a great weekend!

[@TheGooseChaseMusic]

I had commented on an older video of yours 9 ish months ago about the Quad Cortex and the Soon™ meme with the desktop editor and plugins, and to this day its still Soon™ lol Awesome vid, honest opinions are always helpful with these things!

[@jacobcarrizales427]

I feel like putting a multifx processor with a capture feature on a pedalboard is kind of redundant. Like what’s the point of that? 🧐

[@SteveSterlacci]

People will always like their fx for whatever reason. Also, i keep my wireless on the same board so I dont have to bring 2 separate pieces and protect the wireless in a rack or something

[@Crabfather]

Interesting, the things I just take for granted with the hx. I can't help thinking a lot of those issues wouldn't be issues if the qc was someone's first and only pedal . That power cord is ridiculous though, and the venting makes me cringe. Sounds good, but as you said, they all do.

[@joelanderson6777]

QC was the most hyped modeling/effects unit ever... and the reason is that Neural DSP just flat-out lied about it pre-launch! Then they doubled down with the lies at subsequent NAMM shows!

[@SteveSterlacci]

Yep 🫣🫣🫣

[@hanslauerzer4912]

100% agree with your assessment. I regularly hit "wrong" switches during performances because they are too close, which is extremely annoying and frustrating. I also had problems with the external power supply twice. A slightly larger chassis with a built-in power supply would solve the problem, but neural seems to be immune to suggestions for hardware changes. Another problem is that you cannot downgrade the SW. Once you have switched to a new SW version, you cannot go back to the backup with the previous SW version - I had to learn this painfully. If you have installed the latest software and discover a SW-bug, then you are trapped - backup is useless. I'm very happy with the sound, but because of the deficiencies mentioned above, I'm thinking about switching back to Line6 or Fractal. Thank you Steve for your contributions!

[@lpacheco690]

I been holding on to the qc, waiting for something that I could say they finally came through. However, not yet,but I picked a revv d25 and ran the qc 4 cable method Sounds awesome, but as far as aqc standalone, I haven't been impressed with the amp modeling or the capture

[@elbowjames7625]

Was this video recorded before the latest update for the QC, or after?

[@SteveSterlacci]

Before the desktop editor came out in beta

[@olivierroquelle8007]

Hi Steve! Totally agree with you and mainly regarding the lack of IEC power input. It’s a « shame » that this unit shall be plugged to a grounded device to avoid bad ground humming and even little electric shocks when touching some parts of some guitars (my fender Jag for instance). I don’t feel so safe when using it (and as you say, it easily gets hot). That said, they made a lot of improvements on the last updates and the 2.1.x is really enjoyable! (Love their last amps even if I found that the Kracken Ch1 sounds really close than the Jubilee). So I’m also mixed. Yet, I’ve A/B the QC with my Helix LT and my wireless Pod Go and for sure the dynamics and sounds of the QC is far better. On the other way, some fixes would be appreciated (for instance the pitch shifter that is un-usable to drop tone whereas the one from Line 6 are perfectly made and don’t provide any artifacts!). Keep safe and cheers from France! 🇫🇷

[@Margilio5150]

It looks so cool and I’m sure it can sound amazing, but for a casual player my hx stomp is more than enough 😎

[@SteveSterlacci]

HX Stomp is the best pedal ever invented!

[@ShadeHope1969]

I seen Kiko fromMegadeth using the quad,Him and Mustaine both,But it`s parked in their racks and all the changes are on time signatures so they dont even look at the thing,That could be ideal for them but for me i am with you 100 %. except I do use amps and cabs on stage, The sinal is split via the effects loop,so my amps only get a couple effects and not the irs, It works great,I love having a cab on stage and I just run th hx stomp xl straight to the board., I use two amps sometimes, But the truth is, I dont Need em< I jus love em .lol. Thanx Steve, been following you a long time, I hope you guys are doin great,Stay safe,You Rock !!

[@ThomySTB]

Kiko is one of the board members at NDSP iirc, that's why they're gigging them.

[@ShadeHope1969]

Now that makes perfect sense, Thanx.@@ThomySTB

[@niko8412]

I'd like to try the FM9 Turbo from Fractal but ... There's QC

[@spillemusicstudios8515]

Man, I really wanted to like the HX stomp. Such a powerful piece of hardware (looks pretty great too). The amp modeling just sounds and feels significantly less realistic than quad cortex, fractal, and kemper.

[@SteveSterlacci]

Definitely takes some finesse. I've gotten very used to it and have multi tracked dozens of rehearsals. With the band, I can't tell which unit is which using all the ones you mentioned

[@arthurgonzales4949]

I honestly don’t know enough about this unit. I think that there seems to be a lot of uses for it in studio but I’m just not feeling a connection to it yet.

[@SteveSterlacci]

It is an amazing studio tool!

[@ZAYAZOfficial]

@@SteveSterlacciagree with Steve, it’s amazing in the studio. 🎸🤘

[@gddfhjiufcv]

The quad cortex just doesn't sound or feel good enough compared to the fractal stuff in particular, that's it's biggest problem despite all the quirky UI stuff and small footswitches. I will compromise for a unit if it sounds and responds exceptionally and the modelling in this thing is just not good, the captures are ok but for the price it's not good enough. I own a QC and FM3 and the QC is currently in its box.