Line 6 HX Stomp vs Neural DSP Nano Cortex - Which Is the Best Small Ampless Solution?

About this Video

• Video Title: Line 6 HX Stomp vs Neural DSP Nano Cortex - Which Is the Best Small Ampless Solution?
• Channel: John Nathan Cordy
• Speakers: John Nathan Cordy
• Duration: 00:17:35

Introduction

This video compares the Line 6 HX Stomp and the Neural DSP Nano Cortex, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses as compact ampless solutions for guitarists. The presenter, John Nathan Cordy, offers a detailed comparison based on personal experience and usage, considering factors like sound quality, pedalboard integration, MIDI capabilities, effects, and gigging suitability.

Key Takeaways

• Pedalboard Friendliness: The Nano Cortex wins due to its smaller size and compatibility with most power supplies, unlike the HX Stomp's more demanding power requirements.
• MIDI Capabilities: The HX Stomp offers significantly more extensive MIDI control and integration options compared to the Nano Cortex.
• Modeling vs. Capturing: The HX Stomp uses amp modeling, requiring more time to find suitable tones. The Nano Cortex uses amp capturing, offering a quicker route to a sound close to the original amp. However, the Nano Cortex's capture library is limited compared to community-shared resources.
• Effects: The HX Stomp provides a wider range of effects, while the Nano Cortex features some effects not found in the HX Stomp. The HX Stomp also allows for more complex routing and dual amp setups.
• Gigging: The Nano Cortex has an advantage for gigging due to its simpler preset switching. However, the HX Stomp allows for stacked snapshots to create multiple sounds within a preset.
• Editing: The Nano Cortex's Bluetooth phone editing is convenient, while the HX Stomp offers a more robust PC editor.
• Overall: The presenter slightly favors the HX Stomp for its overall versatility and extensive features, but highlights the Nano Cortex as a strong contender, especially for those prioritizing ease of use and amp capture. Helix Native compatibility is also a significant plus for the HX Stomp.