What's The Best Amp Modeler In 2024?

My new webstore for Quad Cortex Captures etc: ko-fi.com/sonicdrivestudio
Thanks for watching my ranking of 8 amp modelers in 2024. Which one do I think is the best? Watch the video to find out! Let me know your thoughts in the comments below! Cheers!
Ampero II Stage Review: • Is The Hotone Ampero I...
Is the Helix good enough in 2024: • Is The Helix Still Goo...
Quad Cortex Revisit/review: • OOPS! I Got Another Qu...
Tone Master Pro review: • Tone Master Pro! (Does...
Amperium Live review: • Better Than Fractal & ...
Boss ME-90 Review: • Does The BOSS ME-90 So...
Headrush Prime Review: • The New HEADRUSH PRIME...
Gear used in this video:
- Fractal Audio FM3 MKII
- Line 6 Helix Floor
- Neural DSP Quad Cortex
- St. Rock Amperium Live
- Hotone Ampero II Stomp
- Headrush Prime
- Fender Tonemaster Pro
- Boss ME-90
This channel is sponsored by:
OwnHammer: www.ownhammer.com/
ML Sound Lab (ML Drums): ml-sound-lab.com/pages/ml-drums
An original song of mine with me on vocals: • My First Song w/Vocals...
Thanks for watching! Please subscribe along with the bell and follow SDS at:
/ sonicdrivestudio
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#ampmodeler #ranking #2024
Disclaimer: this video is sponsored but as always all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own!
Keywords: metallica, sonic drive studio, james hetfield, meshuggah, deftones, rhythm, guitar, amp, tube, modeler, line 6, helix, fractal audio, axe fx, fm3, fm9, hx stomp, tonex, neural dsp, quad cortex, gibson, les paul, custom, standard, esp ltd, phoenix, black metal, deluxe, 1000, ec1000, ec1000t, baritone, prs, mushok, 9-string, 8-string, ibanez, meshuggah m80m, fishman, fluence, seymour duncan, nw44, schecter, hellraiser, e1, apocalypse, ml drums, ml sound lab, grit, meld, cubase, slate digital, steven slate audio, phoenix-7 sc607b, sc608b, adam jones, will adler, tutorial, lesson, tones, settings, new, firmware, free, mesa boogie, marshall, orange, soldano, friedman, peavey, evh, laney, redseven, victory, wangs, lichtlaerm audio, walrus audio, engl, bluguitar, driftwood, hughes kettner, pedal, djent, death, rock, crunch, classic, ola, fluff, blackstar, randall, dsl50, jcm 2000, ds20hr, dsl1000hr, 6505, 6505mh, 1992 original, xxx, satriani, astro 20, slo100, diezel, vh4, vh2, ksr, revv, generator, jvm410h, jvm210h, jvm205, boss, tube screa,er v30, ownhammer, rock-box, essentials, low-tuned, bogren, sc20, sv20, plexi, jubilee, 2525, invective, mini, leviathan, iridium, mercury, preamp, jmp1, dual, triple, mini, rectifier, mk iic+, mkv, kraken, mkii, fireball, 25, 100, powerball ii, savage, special edition, founders edition, slash, 5150, iii, el34, 6l6, single, or15, tiny terror, dual terror, or30, ad30, rockerverb, 50, mkiii, purple, nightmare, archon, mt100, mark tremonti, tubemeister, black spirit, grandmeister, deluxe, toontrack, superior, ez, drummer, ironball, ironheart, ht, clob, venue, jj jr, emg, jb comparison, rig, capture, kemper, profile, free, preset, headrush, amped, digital, analog, hotone, ampero, roland, me90, leptop, daw, kreative devices, desktop, music production, mixing

[@SonicDriveStudio]

Update: I have a new webstore where I sell Quad Cortex Captures and presets etc: ko-fi.com/sonicdrivestudio What would your ranking be? Note: I've been made aware by some of you that the Ampero II does indeed let you change parameters with the scenes. That's great news! Apologies for the wrong info in the video.

[@jmartinez2367]

I have several. My picks among the units I have, in order, are FM3, HX Stomp, and Ampero Stage. They are actually all great units in their own right. One thing I really like about the Ampero Stage is the ability to run one chain through one output and another chain through the other output. I have a piezo-equipped guitar and run the piezo through a compressor, acoustic IR, and EQ chain out to an acoustic amp while simultaneously running the magnetic pickup signal through an amp, delay and reverb chain out to a regular guitar amp. Sounds great!!!

[@evofaizal777]

1. Axe fx 3 2. Fm9 3. Fm3 4. Helix 5. Helix LT

[@GearStuffandThings]

1.Helix 2.Quad Cortex 3.AxeFX The rest don’t make the list IMO haha. I do openly admit they all are very good now

[@JeffBee1]

1. Fractal platform 2. Helix platform 3. Eh.

[@basandi4017]

I would say we need to wait for main players like Line 6 and Fractal to wake up and introduce capture ability. They don't have to invent anything as its already on plate... NAM... They suppose to be follow NeuralDSP and introduce NAM loader in chain for Helix Floor/LT, Fractal FM3/FM9. They don't need licence for it as its open source. Do you know NAM Player is designed and soon will hit the market? If its happen then game over.... Pretty interesting why Line 6 and Fractal still sleeping... Capture ability is the future of tube amps in digital form....Have you tried Amalgam captures? Killer tone and organic feeling... Recent Mark V they released... They nailed! 👌👍

[@michelsen2297]

I use the HX Stomp with my PC, a pair of JBL monitors and Seinheser headphones. I still have a Marshall DSL20 head paired with a 1x12 Orange Cab and V30 speaker. I love my tube amp but it's getting dust. HX Stomp sounds so good at low volumes and it's so practical that it's unbeatable for someone who lives in an apartment.

[@MetalZoned]

Ideal set up 👍🏻

[@mredgarfriendly9001]

I like my FM3. The fact that Fractal continuously improves the sound and keeps adding new amps, cabs and effects for free is remarkable.

[@SonicDriveStudio]

Can't wait to try the new update on mine!

[@givemeajackson]

Yep, that's what sets fractal and line6 apart from the rest imo. The long term commitment to supporting and expanding both product lines has been fantastic with both, and has earned them significant trust. The only way i'd jump ship from my helix stuff is if i were to get an fm9.

[@dannutton9350]

Beta 8 stealth 5153 crushes

[@azur.j]

@@SonicDriveStudiotry the new stealth amp, over the head 🙌🏻

[@NicoandAlej]

I have tried them all and for sound quality and features. FM3 wins by a BIG BIG margin. Love fractal and would never get something else if they keep on top of it as they’ve done until now

[@TheMountainDemon]

I like that you referred to the Line 6 as "fun." That's the same thought I had. While using a Helix or even something simpler, like the Pod Go or HX Stomp, the Line 6 stuff is always just plain fun. Fun to use, fun to play through, fun to hear. It's cool that you had a similar notion about their gear. As always, a great video. Thanks for keeping it going!

[@zematynnad]

Made my choice before the newer ones came out but for everything I looked at the Helix came out as the best. Have never regretted it. It's fantastic, checks all the boxes.

[@pandiwan6376]

The more I work with my helix stuff (rack, native, stomp and pod go wireless) the more I love this platform. Sometimes I think I’d like to try a Fractal but then I go to KZbin and hear helix and fractal head to head It just remind me that i’m happy with the helix and do not really need anything else

[@picksalot1]

I liked your list of the awesome Modelers we get to choose from, and as a Subscriber to your Channel fro many years, value and trust your opinions and objectivity. I have an HX Stomp, and Helix Native, and it's an awesome combination. I watched the John Cordy and Leon Todd reviews of the new Fractal seamless switching update, and that's cool. As a tip, I love the "thick" sound of Fractal Modelers, and so far I find the best way to emulate that on my HX Stomp is to just roll down the Tone Knob a bit on my Strat. Thanks

[@michaelrichardson8343]

I have had my Kemper dialed in for the last 6 years and have not had to tweak anything. I am interested in getting a Quad Cortex for the easier editing. I believe there is something here for everyone and it’s whatever works for you.

[@LonelyRocker]

Great list! I guessed your top 3 perfectly. Guess I know you really well!! :)

[@SteveGreyScratchGame]

thanks for video and your opinion! it helps

[@gabrielstevens41]

Line 6 at 1 makes sense to me. Native has been a game changer for recording for me, being able to use it on any track, not just guitar, is amazing. I also really like the Amperium but the UI definitely needs work. I also like that its high gain heavy with it's amp models. I also like that out of all the modelers its the easiest to use live like I do with one signal to the front of house with an IR and another to a real cab without one.

[@MetalheadOv666]

Thanks for this video! Been wanting to grab another one and leaning towards the mx5 just for bedroom/silent use and to travel with

[@sjsphotog]

Awwsome. I knew Helix and Fractal would be in the top 2. Love my Helix LT. Helix UI is much easier to learn for newbies than the Fractal stuff for sure but you can really tweak at the pro level with the Fractal stuff. rock on. Keep it up.

[@FabrizioPeretti]

Thanks in advance for keeping this reasonably short.

[@deans.4705]

thanks Jon. I respect your opinion and from what I've heard, you make them all sound perfect. I think the Helix is a solid choice for number 1.

[@hihowareyouitsme]

Hey John, I'm not sure if you know this but you are able to control different parameters in different scenes on the Ampero 2 Stage. If you use the computer editor, you can adjust parameter values in each different scene and save them. I haven't tried it on the unit itself but I know it's possible through the computer editor. Brett Kingman has a video making a preset with different parameters in the different scenes.

[@mangoesDB]

I have the stage too. Also works on the unit.

[@JamesFlorio-ti8gc]

Had them all nothing beats the ease of use and quality of sound of helix plus be fun creating it all. 💯💪🏻

[@Ontariosound]

Been playing and recording since the 80’s. Have the Ox Box, Palmer PDI 03, Captor X. And many speaker cabs. My Neo Creamback 1x12 in a Baltic Birch cabinet blows them all away. The feedback, the richness as the volume rises. Hell Yes 🤘

[@steveweilhart2359]

Great review honest and on point - we live in a great time for music gear - not hard to get great tone

[@TVoltG]

I went through so many you have shared here.. and I keep coming back to the L6 Helix/HX Stomp. I use it differently than most. I have been using it as preamp, to a power amp setup into real cabs. It just works exactly like I want it to work.

[@mhoff7722]

Same. That's about the only way I can tolerate my HX Stomp if I want to use it as an amp. Rhythm tones sound great. Still after hours of use it still leaves me wanting to go back to my real amp. It is very convenient and gets the job done for the most part tho! 🤘🤘🤘

[@jmartinez2367]

This is how I use it, too. I turn off the cab/ir block and run it into the effects return of my amp (Friedman PT v2) which goes into a Mesa 2x12 cab. Sounds fantastic in this setup. I’ll occasionally turn on the IR block and go into studio monitors. Sounds very good there as well, but not as “big” sounding.

[@stm113]

This and in a 4 cable method with a real amp in my opinion is where the Helix does best. The Helix FX are AMAZING.

[@TVoltG]

@mhoff7722 I have a Diezel VH2, a first edition, Mesa Single 50 Recto, and a Marshall JCM800. I love them but very happy that I can get 99% of those amps tones with L6.

[@mhoff7722]

@@TVoltG Very cool. Is that for recording and monitoring through studio monitors? That is how I like it best. Cranked through a couple of 4x12's I gotta go with the real amp for any extended amount of playing time.

[@babtanian]

I only picked up the Helix Floor maybe 5 months ago, so I'm way late to the party, but I've enjoyed it immensely. I can run it direct, I can use it with a PowerCab, and I've recently enjoyed running it in the loop of a tube amp, bypassing the physical preamp and modeling that way. I can run my vocals through it on a different signal chain, route it to a different output, etc., etc. It's very versatile.

[@stm113]

It’s a good unit for sure, especially how you are using it. I hope you have a ton of fun and make some good music with it!

[@michaelm0524]

Likewise! I got mine in October last year and I feel the same. I've started adding bass to my recordings via poly Capo and it has changed my home jams. I love my Helix. Not saying I wouldn't love any of the others but my Helix is so comfortable now. I have started using MIDI assignments to run Reaper when I'm at my desk, too.

[@smoothsavage2870]

Got mine last Summer. Absolutely LOVE it and all it can do!!!

[@gauravlama2079]

I have been using Helix for the past 4 years now, it’s a great device but for me personally I love Fractal audio the most. The amp model features and effects are absolutely top notch. The only thing I don’t like about helix is the tone feel and dynamic response on the unit. It doesn’t feel organic like the fractal

[@davidzais]

Just as an fyi, with the hot one stage ii you can change all the parameters of any effect/amp. Scene 1 is the default then any parameter you change in scenes 2-5 is saved in that scene just by changing it. It’s even easier than controllers

[@leomachine23]

Great video! FM9 MKII Turbo user here! ❤️

[@mikesmith1290]

I use the ToneX pedal for tones UAD Apollo for effects. Behringer FCB 1010 to control everything. I’m glad to hear that even though ToneX wasn’t featured, it seems like it’s the new benchmark to compare everything else to

[@AquaMunkee]

What a great, concise and honest overview! I started with the line6 HX Stomp and I agree it is an amazing little device that punches way above its weight class. I eventually decided to go with the Fractal Axe FX3 because the flexibility and incredible power appealed to me, but I do miss the simpler and more intuitive workflow of the Stomp. Ultimately I realized that the Axe FX3 was overkill for my live rig as I seldom exceeded 50% CPU utilization even with dual amp presets, so now I continue to enjoy the Axe FX3 in the studio and I practice and gig with the FM9. My primary motivation for using the FM9 is to have shared presets live and at home, but if I had kept the HX Stomp it would definitely be a viable solution. Who knows? Had I tried the full sized Helix I may have never even explored Fractal, but I’m extremely happy with my FM9 and love the frequent software updates adding new features like the recent gapless switching… GAME CHANGER!

[@leonsun5]

I use simple chains, mainly working in studio. From price/quality/simplicity point of view my winner is Amperium. Next is FM3 because of effects quality, but if we consider only amp modelling it's on the same level as Amperium but 3x more xpensive. 3rd is Helix.

[@GiacomoVaccari]

Boss gt 1000 core here. I love the little thing to bits! Now I figured out you can add IRs and it opens the sound even further

[@bhosterman]

Ive tried them all. Landed on the Synergy system with a two notes to sim the speaker and power amp. Nothing beats real tubes.

[@craigyoung4068]

Me too. I went the same route.

[@HVACRTECH-83]

The only one of these i have is the qc and i would have thought it would rank better but ive never tried any fractal stuff so i find it interesting and im going to have to try one out someday to see whats better about them. For my qc, ive had really good sucess capturing all my tube amps and have bought a good amount of captures from reputable guys that just blow me away how real they feel and sound. I cant imagine there being a better platform, but thats why we are all entitled to our own opinions.

[@reggiebdog]

as a professional musician I use what sounds, feels, and is easiest to get consistent tone. For me FM9. I'm very comfortable with the editing either by PC or on the box, but the PC editor is much easier. Tone wise I can use it direct to FoH, direct to my tube or SS amp (depends on which band) and to the front of the amp or 4CM. They all sound great these days. The layout flexibility of the FM9 buttons and pedals is so deep. I have yet to find a situation or setup I can't achieve. Best is going to be whatever fits you.

[@svenjeschke5025]

Excellent video, Jon! I agree that the Amperium Live is up there with the best soundwise. I even like it better than the FM3 because I always find the Fractal modeling a little bit too dark and muffled, but that‘s just a matter of taste. Can‘t go wrong with Line 6 either!

[@jefflogan334]

I use the Helix Floor for my main cover guitar gig where I also give bass a path. I also use HX effects for my bass only gig. What you don't mention is that if you are on the platform, you can move effects from one unit to another by drag and drop. Incredibly efficient.

[@artsal]

I had them all and for some reason I liked my Kemper better overall. Line 6 helix second and axe fx iii 3rd place

[@givemeajackson]

I think i actually agree 100% on that list, for the same reasons you outlined. The fractal devices are unmatched in sheer capability, but the thing is that at least in my experience that doesn't translate into better final results than using helix, and the helix is just a more streamlined platform. Native is the ultimate cherry on top of it. As a little aside, i think the new helix cab block is absolutely incredible and far better than most helix users realise. I stopped using 3rd psrty IRs cause it's so intuitive, and imo the only cab sim suite that surpasses it is Mikko 2. I use helix cabs with my NAM captures and my real preamps these days.

[@alvarofelipe_sepu]

Like others, I went through some of them (helix, QC, FM9…). I prefer the FM9, then I would pick the Helix in 2nd place. With the physical unit, I would love to have a Fractal plugin like what Line 6 offers. Helix Native is a great all in one solution for recording.

[@nicopoppe4838]

Do you use the axe fx 3 as a audio interface still? I played the helix many times, somehow more "linear" on highgain as the axe fx 3 but more umpleasenly fizzy. The axe fx has this "balls" in the low mids that sometimes sound weird. I was the biggest fan of you tones on soundcloud. Even with the same ownhammer irs I couldnt get those kind of tones... until I swiched to YA Irs 😅

[@MONOMAK3R]

I own the HX Stomp and the FM3 and love them both. But the options you have with the FM3 are great.

[@leavingsoulsBO]

I would agree with the ranking. Sure, as far as end results go, Fractal wins hands down but it has a steep learning curve, not the easiest availability and quite a hefty price tag so I kind of agree with the number 2 spot. My only disagreement is about the QC: it deserves the third place but I gotta say I'm quite happy with it's modelling and find it more "ready to go" than the Helix where I rely on my heavily tweeked favorites for quite preset building, however it lacks in the FX which are really kind of basic compared to the competition and sound competent rather than inspiring. But yeah having played most of those modellers featured here I agree with your ranking

[@Blackzon]

Appreciate the video, your expertise far surpass mine, but I still prefer the quad cortex for the interface, the captures and I think the stock models sound better than the helix. Just me I guess. I agree with the top three choices but just not in that order lol. 1. Fractal 2. Quad cortex 3.Helix

[@ResonanceMetal]

For me, the ampero and the amperium are really cool through your videos. I actually own an Atomic Amplifire box, wich I love, but I need some flexibilité and access to parameters on the device to tweak if needed. Just hope there will be another device from them.

[@solidus317]

As a fellow owner of the top 3 on this list I’m gonna have to agree with you. Even though I play with my Axe III 90% of the time, for the money, having the floor unit and expression pedal of the Helix for a much cheaper cost. I don’t play out anymore and play at my desk and slightly prefer the modeling and built in cabs from fractal but I’d be happy knowing I’d have a top dog if I just had my Helix. The QC sounds great and I love the form factor and toughness of the unit but like you said, it just doesn’t sound and react in the “real” way that the other two do. I can dial my Axe(especially) and Helix to sound virtually identical to my 50w 5150 6l6 with 412 Recto cab with basically the same knob settings. Neural uses their own scale or something.

[@TudorAdrian]

I think this has been a fair assessment and ranking to be honest. While I think the sounds from the Fractal stuff are better overall, the workflow on the units isn't that easy compared to the Line6 stuff. Agreed very much on the Quad Cortex assessment - great concept, form-factor, routing but so-so implementation. I'm so itching to try the Amperium though.

[@nikonirvtube]

Hi John! In this video are you talking about the fm3 turbo or the the previous model as well. I’m asking because I’m searching for delas on both, and I’m not that sure if I should aim only for the turbo model? Thanks and hugs from South America!!

[@SonicDriveStudio]

Turbo

[@nikonirvtube]

@@SonicDriveStudio btw, do you think it’s not a good deal to buy a fm3 at a relatively good price? Or should I go for the turbo (or maybe that’s what you meant? lol).

[@xanderjones6239]

Love this list! As always, this stuff is so subjective, but I love hearing others experiences with these things. I went from the axe-fx iii to the ampero, and I couldn't be happier. 1 because I couldn't justify having such an expensive unit. It just felt wrong. And I never used even a fraction of what I needed it for. I'm a simple guy, and the ampero is more than enough to suit my needs.

[@scentia_est]

Same here. HX Stomp is more than I will ever need. If you are not a professional, Axe FX 3 is overkill.

[@leonemesis87]

I have the QC and couldn’t be happier. It keeps updating and improving all the time. I would choose fractal over it just because of the FX variety, however I would lose the QC’s much easier and faster user interface whenever you need to make some changes.

[@danc3746]

I agree with the Helix being #1. I use mind with a tube power amp and a real 2x12 cabinet. Its always solid for live gigs.

[@strut73]

Yes it is, i got a Helix 6 years, and it rules for me too, bro!!! And i use the Pod Go and like it too!

[@GP-mk5tj]

As a line 6 Helix floor unit for 5 years, I bounced between the fractal audio AX8. However, when I got the fractal audio FM 9 turbo it definitely was a game changer. Not that Helix is bad. Helix was so much simpler on the learning curve. Once you get around a learning curve of a fractal audio stuff it's a breeze. The sounds out of this unit are amazing. I've never been so more happier because I'm playing and doing less tweaking.

[@sirtogii5216]

Interesting to see the Helix still impressing in 2024.

[@Kyle7K]

Used to have a Helix rack and loved it. Downsized when the world changed to a HX Stomp because they say it's the same sounds but it felt absolutely terrible to me. Sold it and tried the Ampero Stomp II and was hooked. Stage is on it's way now.

[@tonchuazkarreta1262]

What's your Amp system? Valve head with Cab? Solid State with Cab? FrFr like the Fender Tone Máster Fr12? A video about It'd be really helpfull!!

[@adammichaelchannel]

Thanks for this video. Entry: ME-90 Intermediate (can also be used professionally): Helix Pro: AxeFx

[@mjlagerwerf]

I tried several units, and only the Kemper felt like I was playing a real amp. Although a QC of Line 6 sounds really awesome, but for some reason it isn't the same. That said, I don't own any of these kind of units, but played around with them a lot. Also, it might be fun to make a similar video but only with small units. Tonex, hx stomp, blu amp and others. Small units you can simply put in your guitar bag with two cables, and you have your complete rig ready to go :)

[@BaianoPR]

I completely understand your choice for the first two, especially when considering the Helix interface. I have an FM3 now, but before I had a Stomp HX XL and I honestly think the Helix is further behind in terms of tone. I thought the Helix was very "HI-FI" (if that makes sense), and in the FM3 it's so easy to get a good tone, that it's fun even if the interface isn't that friendly.

[@p.1802]

I have Hx Stomp with additional external footswitch and I enjoy it. Compact device and quite good sound with a good factory support

[@CG-gp2bh]

If it’s tone (which is what pros want) it’s fractal hands down I have the top 3 and it’s fractal way above the other two for me.

[@brianlebrun2382]

I've been using a Helix floor for a few years now and I have to say that when I don't use it I really miss it. Last night I was in a studio and brought along my little Boss GX100. I use that when I don't want to lug around the big guy. I used a Hughes and Ketner 4 channel amp and hated it. It wasn't my sound and I was tweaking it all night long. I'd love to try the Fractal but the work surface is so much better on the Helix that I can't imagine not using it.

[@user-ln8zo2fw5s]

All sound good, depending on the user's tone, playing, knowledge capabilities of their music, and their influence. I had two guys playing the same rig setup with different skill levels they both don't sound the same lol. Just enjoy the choices. Grateful for the gear industry and the innovation 😃

[@EricSabag12]

I agree with most of your rating, but line 6. I can see how the Fractal ranked higher than the QC(which is probably based on your needs, I prefer the QC for my needs). But line 6 has no advantage of capture, not the most consistent(from Fractal I think it's not even close, I honestly think that the qc is more consistent, too). DSP wise, it's losing, space wise, it's losing. No touch screen. It even lost in the ux to the qc. Helix native? I can use it without the unit. It's the as saying the plugins are advantage of the qc without the ability to integrate them. Adding tonex in the loop for capture? So you can add the helix one in the loop of the qc and get the fx, which is probably the only advantage of the helix 🤷🏻‍♂️ Just my two cents!

[@sildyraypolestico6134]

Fractal Audio is the G.o.a.t!

[@goodbooiiz25]

How about zoom g11? I want to get this but i have a little doubt on this thing

[@MatthiasBuesing]

Fractal for sure! 🤘🏻

[@RyanWright]

I am a Helix guy, b/c it has a ton of "external" support, is continually being improved by Line 6, STILL sounds great (IMO) even though it is one of the older ones on the list, and I generally run a Variax guitar and a Powercab Plus speaker. Any other modeler would just not fully utilize either of those to the full potential.

[@IgorMuller]

From my studio and live experience QC and FM series are tied for best in class sound, everything else is a step beyond. It is virutally impossible to tell if its them or an analog amp in a blind comparison. Everything else you can, Line6, new Fender, Kemper etc. Those 2 are basically user preference they are equally good (some say effects are a bit better on FM). Ampero stuff on the other side holds incredible value, the quality and quanitity you get for that price is absolutely outstanding. I would use Ampero II on stage as a backup unit without a second thought.

[@MatthiasBuesing]

The FM is 1.449€ - thus still cheaper than the QC. But yes, Fractal isn't cheap. I'm a bit surprised that you preferred the Helix family over the Fractal. I think the amp models in the Helix are pretty far away from the ones that can be found on Fractal devices. Badonk is good, the rest is pretty meh. Had the LT and the HX Stomp for years but after switching to the FM3 I *never* looked back. But of course a valid opinion, Jon! I think Fractal won't release a plugin ever - just because of piracy 🤷🏻‍♂

[@Niksounds]

money =)

[@dannutton9350]

Fm3 usd 1099.00 helix 1499.00 not sure why he said fractal is more expensive

[@MatthiasBuesing]

@@dannutton9350 1.099$ is without VAT. The FM3 here in Europe is 1.449€...the normal Helix is about the same, the LT is 999€, the HX Stomp is about 649...

[@user-tf4tv9bj4f]

@@dannutton9350 FM3 and Helix aren't comparable. Helix Floor has a lot more.

[@dannutton9350]

@user-tf4tv9bj4f if you add the fc6 you have similar size and function. The Fm3 provides incredible tone for your average studio/local gig guitarist. I can use the fm3 with one preset and 8 scenes and control functions and gapless switching and cover many sounds. I owned fractal since 2006 the first axefx using a standard and ultra for 17ys finally buying an fm3. I've played a helix stuff but found the Fractal to be more real, before the Fractal I ran Mesa rectos triaxis, marshall jcm800 and a splawn quick rod. Touring regional for many years. I recently bought an ampero that sounds decent enough to jam with friends. I think all the modelers are quality enough and use what you want to get your sound.. rock on

[@lupozor]

The ampero does offer parameter settings per scene!

[@GuitarVictor]

The A2S does have scene control, you can assign different parameters to each scene. What it can’t do is name scenes and assign a custom led color to different scenes.

[@TheManglerPolishDeathMetal]

100b% agree

[@skyhorseprice6591]

I cant argue with your choice of Helix. I've had mine since 2020 and it just delivers the sickest, illest, most rupturous tone _ever!_ I completely pulled the tone I've had in my head for years, but could never quite nail down, out of the Helix. Just straight _rippage!_ 🤟

[@scottwhitlow8468]

Great video! Future video idea would be to have the “Ultimate Amp Modeler” shootout! Compare 1-3 “tweaked” amp and IR (or cab) that all the modelers have and then use the real amp compared to all of the amp modelers versions with timestamps to jump around. :)

[@SonicDriveStudio]

Something like that could be cool!

[@jwelliott74]

I think the price point at each tier, coupled with the overall fun factor of tweaking and tweezing sounds (I’ve literally lost hours doing that, and didn’t mind at all) puts Line6 Helix ecosystem at #1 for me. But then again, I’ve always found a way to find good usable tones on a budget. I even used an original POD 1.0 live for a while, and it sounded amazing considering the simplicity. But different aspects make different products appealing. I mean the sheer affordability of the Hotone makes it hard to beat, especially for a beginner or part time hack. But Modeling is as divisive as the whether or not to use modelers debate. It’s all really dependent on what meets your needs best, and that includes your budget.

[@fuzzymuppet1990]

Way back in the day I used to have a pod 1.0 that i updated to a 2.0 (i got the rom chip from line6 and installed it myself) and the 4 button footswitch. I ran that to an 80's peavey renown 400 2x12 . 210 watt SS.. that rig crushed !

[@fuzzymuppet1990]

I can't believe it's been 26 years since i got the OG POD damn !

[@mlsoundlab]

Pretty much agree with everything you said. The newer companies have some questionable amp modelling but capture features are amazing. Helix wins for usability reasons but Fractal Audio has had the best amp modelling for like a decade and no other hardware unit can even be compared to that high standard. The downside is usability and price for Fractal... but an Axe-Fx II has better amp modeling than any other non-Fractal hardware unit so there's that. 🎉

[@SonicDriveStudio]

Thanks for sharing your 2 cents! Of course this list is very personal so I knew going into this that not everybody would agree, and that's totally fine of course! Variety is the spice of life! ;)

[@JarickL]

Hard to argue with your list! My favorite now is QC due to ease of use, quickly dialing in sounds, and form favor. Axe 3 close behind as it’s so powerful and good although not the best form for me. And Helix is third, great overall but not my favorite for amp tones.

[@bigmike2149]

Axe FX III MkII is an absolute beast and workhorse in my studio. Not only do I track guitars and bass through it, I also use it as a hardware insert for aux reverb, delays and other effects processing. Plus you get 4 channels! It’s honestly in a category of its own. 🔥🔥🔥

[@itsmedankevz]

Any video about kemper player ?

[@easye9-21]

I have owned most of the ones on the list except the quad cortex and tone master. Currently have a stomp, helix and Axe Fx 3 and imo the Fractal stuff is leaps and bounds above the Helix, especially the amps and reverbs.

[@Sperzel]

Honestly that Amperium live seems like such a cool unit! Shame about the UI, and would love some 1/4” outs for running straight into a power amp. Does it have some clean amps as well?

[@stm113]

Helix Native is the reason I keep coming back to the Helix. I’ve tried to convince myself to sell off my FM9 and just go with the Helix since I am at a point in my music life where it’s hard to justify keeping both but honestly, every time I think, ok maybe I can do with just the Helix, I plug into my FM9 and it’s a difference sound and feel. Plus Helix has this silly limitation that’s hard to get past, I can’t understand why they will not implement the ability to do “channel switching” on an amp model. You have to use 2 amp blocks and switch back and forth to go Clean/Gain in the same preset.

[@ianwillo]

On channel switching, there are two workarounds. You may already know this but if not...First, some of the new L6 amps have built-in boosts that you can assign to a footswitch. Second, for any other amp you can assign multiple changes to the amp set up (so, drive levels, EQ), to a single footswitch. It's not as simple as a two-channel switch in real life, and it isn't a solution for a model like the Placater where you have specific Clean/Dirty models. But its a workaround. Hope it helps.

[@stm113]

@@ianwillo thank you, unfortunately these workarounds don’t work in my normal use cases. The 2 closest workarounds I have found are 1- 2 amp blocks, a control switch that bypasses one and activates the other. 2-use an EQ block as a pseudo clean model with my gain amp model bypassed then bypass the EQ when the gain amp is engaged.

[@ianwillo]

@@stm113 That makes sense. The other possible workaround I've spotted is the new JCM800 2203 model has the high-low inputs as a switch within the same model, rather than two different models. So in theory I can assign that + volume + EQ to a switch and do channel switching that way. I'm going to have a play around with it. It would be amazing if they retrofitted that feature to more models.

[@jorismak]

Isn't this what snapshots are for? The same preset with different settings

[@ianwillo]

@@jorismak yep, you can do this with snapshots. I just try to have solutions that work inside snapshots and outside of them too (specifically for improv and jamming when I don't know what combination of things I'll want in advance).

[@joresvanwensen922]

Gast... nooit gedacht dat line 6 een 1ste plaats weet te bemachtigen in een lijst als dit. Inderdaad ze zijn van flut naar top gegaan in hun ontwikkeling zeg. Helix, mooi apparaatje hoor ;)

[@David_Dauncey]

Do a review on a BOSS GX-100 👌🏽👌🏽

[@anirbanplayguitar]

I have the Ampero stage ii its pretty good unit i love the tone of it & if you use IR its just go insane i love the unit

[@joellebrodeur1015]

I just ordered one last night just 2 weeks after getting the Ampero Mini.

[@anirbanplayguitar]

@@joellebrodeur1015 it's incredible ❤️

[@p0kerp1aya]

I have the Ampero One. Do you think it's worth upgrading to the Ampero 2 Stage?

[@anirbanplayguitar]

@@p0kerp1aya yes brother it's worth upgrading 😊

[@gcvrsa]

For me personally, the Boss GT-1000Core is the one. No other unit on the market has the same level of price/performance/unique effects/size/current draw/reputation for reliability as the Boss GT-1000Core. The Quad Cortex, for instance, costs three times as much, is 2.5 times the size, consumes more than 3 times as much electrical power, and lacks both Boss' unique effects and reputation for reliability. The HX Stomp costs $100 more and has much less CPU/DSP power. I do not need 1000 amp models and 1000 IRs; I need a handful that work perfectly for my needs, and the GT-1000Core has them with Boss' AIRD amp models. The built-in IRs are great, and I can load enough others to meet my needs, as I don't play other people's music, I only play *my* music. I also do not need to have plug-ins of the GT-1000 on my DAW. The GT-1000Core has a few limitations, mainly due to its size, but I realized pretty quickly that te easiest, cheapest, and smallest way to work around those limitations is to just use two GT-1000Cores, together. At $1200 for two of them, it's still a bargain compared to the QC, the Fractal units, and the larger Helix units. The Core takes up exactly as much space on a pedalboard as two standard Boss pedals and the space between them, costs about the same price as 3-5 standard Boss pedals, but offers processing power much greater than 3-5 pedals can contain. Two Cores together take up no more space on a pedalboard than one row of 4 regular Boss pedals. It has all of Boss' unique effects, which are the ones I use, and it has Boss' reputation and history of reliability, which no other company in the market can match. Not Line 6, not Fractal, not Neural, none of them have been making effects as long as Boss or hold the level of trust that musicians have for Boss. I really like that the Boss AIRD amp models are not intended to necessarily replicate the sound of pre-existing physical amps, so there is no tendency to compare them to "the actual amps", as "the actual amps" don't exist. So, you get to focus on whether or not the amp models actually sound good, and they not only sound good, they sound great. I'm using the "Natural" and "Boutique" for clean to low gain sounds, and the "X-HiGain" and "X-Modded" for high gain sounds. I use Boss' "X-OD" and "X-DIST" drives, which no other company has, and Boss' "X-COMP" and "X-Bass Comp", which no other company offers. And of course, there is a whole host of other effects for which Boss is justifiably famous inside the box, as well.

[@gabrielstevens41]

Maybe you can answer this question because I can't seem to find a straight answer to it in Boss' manuals or in forums. Is it possible to run two signals: one with an IR and one without to go to a live cab? I like the tones I've heard from Boss but it's not useful to me unless I can run a regular cab.

[@jameswatson5576]

@@gabrielstevens41 Yes, Boss has a ton of different routing options. It's actually a little confusing at first but extremely flexible once you figure it out. Basically there are 4 outputs (Main L/R, Sub L/R) and you can split them or run stereo twice. Using one of the 3 dividers you can send your signal out one of the sub outs (or one side of the Main outs) with a cab block IR on that path, then your other path would go to your live cab. There are other ways too, just realize that there are 4 physical outputs, 4 virtual outputs and 3 virtual dividers.

[@gabrielstevens41]

@jameswatson5576 thank you!

[@Benson.BereTV]

Hey man. Thank you for this. Im going to serve church again. I was about to buy ampero stomp and difference between 1k core is only 150 euros. Does core have a scene function like its limited to three switches. Can it do different parameters in one patch? Also they said its an unbalanced output so i cant run it directly to the mixer. I need DIs. Right?

[@Benson.BereTV]

​@@jameswatson5576 Hey man. Thank you for this. Im going to serve church again. I was about to buy ampero stomp and difference between 1k core is only 150 euros. Does core have a scene function like its limited to three switches. Can it do different parameters in one patch? Also they said its an unbalanced output so i cant run it directly to the mixer. I need DIs. Right

[@agatone20]

Helix for the win! My floor is my main rig and haven't found reasons to switch.

[@benmyers7694]

I have the FM3 and the Helix and I agree that the amp modeling quality is very close but FM3 is just a bit better. For my experience I had to tweak the Helix amps more to get the sound I wanted vs the FM3. Helix UI is definitely more user friendly.

[@stm113]

I agree but I’d say that Helix is good but not very close to FAS modeling. I can get usable even good tones but it takes so much more work than my FAS gear does, to still not sound as good.

[@germanmu84]

Helix Native is a very good tool, but even after a few minutes of using it you realize that the feeling and sound are not there. It still has that "fighting with the strings" feeling of the POD HD, but improved. The amplifiers are very 2D and although with external IRs it sounds much better, you can't get more than an average sound out of it. I only use it to put on the Minotaur before going to Tonex, which has better feeling and more realistic amplifiers, although you also have to put external IRs on it. I still have faith in the next generation of Line 6 if they can improve the critical problem of feel and response. On the other hand, Fractal seems to have the most real feeling and audio, respects more the "in your face" audio of real amps, responds to the tone and volume of the guitar, but is much more expensive as well. Greetings from Argentina!

[@Yekzelf]

Jon, I don't get it... If the price of the FM3 at €1469 (G66) is labeled "not really affordable", why doesn't that apply as well to the Helix at €1465 (Bax)?

[@bitdevice]

I agree with Helix Native, I use it every day. The only thing better would be if Fractal was available as a plugin.

[@donniedonnie639]

Fractal for the win. Helix makes for a nice compact backup.

[@Fredlund666]

Personally I would choose the Fractal over the Helix. Especially with the new firmware that gives us gapless preset changes and more amps and the update also somehow made all my presets sound even better. The Helix is a great unit though, and I have been using that for 6-7 years and I still use Native alot. Awesome video as usual.

[@SonicDriveStudio]

The new firmwares are amazing!

[@Fredlund666]

@@SonicDriveStudio yeah I installed the beta on the FM3 the other day and I can't stop making presets. The amps really comes alive, and I hardly experience any DSP issues. Maybe 0.6% more on some presets compared to before, but I'll take that trade any day. :)

[@redkurn]

I’ve got the prime and the helix, honestly I’d swap the prime and the hotone in your list, the prime needs work for sure, but I think the models sound great and the captures are better than tonex. Not sure if you’ve updated it recently or not. That said, my helix is still here for two reasons, metal amps and running them through a mimiq. 😂

[@Sispheor]

Well... I bought a TMP anyway. Just... I don't know. It is inspiring. The UI is very pleasant. And the sound from what I've heard is not bad at all. Can only become better and better with time like a good wine bottle. Finger crossed 🤞. First ever fender product for me.

[@scamassassin2538]

I own several different platforms. For me, the Fractal Axe-Fx 3 is the absolute best! The guru's at Fractal Audio are consistently improving their product.

[@dantredogborsa7048]

It's like the JB and 59 pickups, at the end of the day it's all about the already classics Fractal and Line6.

[@eskilseter]

The Helix rules. All the different units that can fit any budget and size/power requirement, Helix Native, frequent updates that continue to add loads of great stuff, intuitive editor... What's not to love? Meanwhile, Neural have still not delivered on promises they made when the unit was released several years ago.

[@balmain2496]

Kemper profiler player is also a top tier contender

[@ChickenThug55]

Most trusted. Love you!

[@KyleCanessa]

Love my Helix

[@IamMusicNerd]

QC is the only one that works for me as of right now. Axe Effects sounds great, but their UI is horrible compared to the simple UI on the QC. The Helix is way too bulky, and the HX stomp does not let you use as many effects simultaneously. I like running a hybrid setup with real amps and real pedals. The QC is the only one that has a small enough footprint to fit on my pedalboard, but still has enough I/O to put my real amps in, more foot switches for all the effects I use, and has great capturing to bring all my amps with me when I travel, as well as capturing my pedals also. (The Tonex also has fantastic amp and drive pedal capturing and sharing abilities for a much lower price and even smaller footprint. But the UI is terrible and there are no other effects built in. If Tonex ever adds a better UI and multi-effects built in, that would be my hybrid platform winner)

[@scentia_est]

Tried many cool things, even tube amps, but I am always coming back to HX Stomp and Helix Native. For recording at home, you really need nothing else except you are a pro. The coolest thing is, that I am always able to use other amp sims from the recorded DI. There are so many other modellers but nothing have beaten the Helix stuff til this day. Soundwise, yes, Fractal is better but in my opinion but the difference in a non pro mix is not recognizable. Guitar playing, a good guitar and a good mix is what really counts in the end.