Great video and strong points. I started with the HX Stomp XL and got so excited about what I could do with it that I sold it to by the QC. On my 3rd gig with the QC the screen went blank and I could not change from the patch I was on. I got through the evening. Without bashing the QC, facing a 3-4 week service turn around time (they refused to send me a loaner that I would secure with my credit card) I went back to the HX Stomp XL. I couldn't be happier. It is rock solid, sounds great and I can probably get 95% of what I did with the QC on the HX. The main MAIN appeal is that I have all my patches backed up and if I ever need it, I can find an HX Stomp in just about any city in America. Oh yeah, and it is about 1/3 the $ of the QC. ++
Your exactly right about the fact that the helix sounds just as good as the rest when you know what you are doing. I just spent a few weeks with the tonex pedal and it didn't sound any better than what I can do with the Helix.
I have to agree. That's why I didnt make too much of an effort to fit tonex pedal on this. It was adding unnecessary weight, and I think a diminishing return in tone
Touring musician from UK here too. I play in Europe, You just can’t walk into a store and pick up fractal and neural gear. And if you did, it will kill your profits from your tour pretty swiftly 😂
Hello Steve thanks for your valuable contributions! I really don't know why you don't have an HX Stomp with you as a backup. If something breaks, it's on stage, and you don't have time to look for a replacement in a store. You can program your backup-HX Stomp in advance, have it ready immediately, and it really should fit in any corner now. I have a Quad Cortex and a HX Stomp as a backup for every gig...🤘
Thanks Hans! At most shows, there will be either bands with ampa or backline amps. So I can always use the Nordland and the provided aml. Also, I do have Jessicas HX Stomp if it ever came down to it. We are in Germnay for a few weeks. Is that where you live ? Would be great to see you at a show
@@SteveSterlacci Dear Steve, I knew you would know what you're doing and that you'd be prepared, no doubt! How did you figure out that I'm from the area? Was it because of my dialect? 😜 Specifically, I'm from Switzerland, and I checked your tour dates. Unfortunately, I have my own gigs exactly on the dates when you'll be in Switzerland - that's such a shame. It would have been super cool to see you and check out your HX Stomp XL sound live. I really hope, there will be an opportunity to hear you and Jessica live someday - and who knows, maybe we can even talk to each other, that would be really cool. Wishing you continued success with your very cool posts and reviews from the perspective of a touring musician! 🤘
Took a board with the Stomp XL to Puerto Rico with a Boss RV-5, a Shure GLDX-16 and and a radial stereo d.i. all Songs arranged by snapshots around the WhoWatt. It was an easy and elegant solution that really was inspired by this video. 😀
I’ve owned a Helix floor for around 5yrs and I’m currently on tour. I’ve always been afraid to commit to it in a live situation even tho I use it for recording, I kept going back to my pedals and valve amp live. However this last few weeks I decided to have a real go at “accepting “ that it’s a little different to a traditional set up and I have to say I’m really starting to get into it at last. After a few tweaks here and there I’m getting what I was looking for out of the Helix. I absolutely agree when you talk about the top modellers and I include the Helix in that conversation, it’s about getting your sound, there’s no better brand ,it’s down to you being able to get what you are looking for from the unit you choose.
I can totally understand your decision. I toured with Helix 🧬 for the past two years and recently switched to quad cortex. But before that I tested the new rig and put it through it’s paces until it earned my trust. Until then I still had my Helix in the bus just in case. I am not touring overseas though. That kind of makes it simpler for powersupply choice and weight. I use Cioks DC7 for the Quad Cortex and build my own strain relief so that nothing can accidentally become loose.
Right on Steve I totally get where you're coming from when it comes to lugging heavy gear. Cool thing I really enjoy about your channel is that it's not just genre-specific. You and I are worlds apart as far as music styles but when it comes to gear we are definitely brothers from another mother. Cheers to you buddy be safe on your tour especially driving.
My HX Stomp has been a mainstay on my board for years. Sounds just as good if not better than anything on the market, and being an active player in the worship circuit, I’ve heard and used them all. Best piece of gear that I have purchased in the last 10 years! Your channel has helped me so much with my setup and how I use my stomp
Makes sense. And you could have an additional unit as a backup and still come out cheaper than a single QC or FM9. Or get the regular stomp as a backup and throw it in a bag pocket haha.
Man, I never thought about how nerve wracking it would be to travel, especially overseas, with JUST a multi effects modeler. If something goes wrong… 😳 I currently have a 20x11 board that ends with an Iridium. I suppose even if my Iridium died, I could engage the cab sim on my BigSky and finish a show. Then replace just the Iridium for the next date. Anyway, best of luck on this trip!
Think this video helps alot. I have a Helix which is 2-3 years old but I havent used it as much as in the last 1 year maybe. Still got lots to learn and while i appreciate it being so rugged (took it overseas once in my gator case, was totally not worried about throwing it around)...its just too bloody heavy for practice locally. So I think imma wait out for a good deal and get the HX Stomp XL Or.....if Line6 comes out with the succssor to Helix by end of this year and if its more portable, maybe that instead haha
Hi Steve, thanks for sharing your knowledge of these modeling systems. Also, I've started listening to your wife (and you) on Spotify. Great stuff! Especially your work on the guitar! Tasty licks, and tasty tones.
I’ve always loved line 6 products there so easy to get your hands on them I only have two complaints about the stomp number one being no xlr and number two being the power supply not a big deal at all just a work around but heck I’ve been using the stomp since 2019 and haven’t stopped using it. Even tried a fm3 for a second didn’t see much difference so went back to a stomp. A big factor in the stomp are the bass amps and effects. Fractal doesn’t have half of what line 6 has and the quad cortex is double the price of a stomp.
Nice rig dude. I am a huge fan of HX Stomp, still keeps up with the big boys! I am using the QC for all my regional work. I also helped Polyphia get their units powered for their US and international work. If you would like me to help you, reach out!
Yout Matchless comments resonated. I am new to the HX Stomp world and really need to explore those models as I am drawn to the Vox, Morgan, Matchless world.
@@SteveSterlacci I got one recently. Works great. However, I don't use external pedals. I just wanted something sturdier than the one provided. I've gigged with the QC for over a year now, but not at the level you are. Would definitely want a backup if I was touring.
@@SteveSterlacci yeah. No issues (knocks on wood). I gig about 1-2 times per month. I always wait a little bit after a new update is released since they've been buggy lately. Very happy with it all around.
That’s a huge wireless box… try the Boss WL-20 wireless thingies…. I gig with them ( English pubs and functions) and they’ve never let me down! (Although I take a cable just in case)
Its huge, but its super reliable and a high end unit. I once had drop outs at the Nürburgring in Germany in front of over 10,000 and was so embarrassed. Never skimping on wireless again! 🤣
I think those are all really smart and pragmatic decisions for a touring musician like yourself. Having your Presets backed up to the Cloud means that even if your HX Stomp XL breaks, stops working, gets lost, or stolen, you can be up and running in short order. Do you use an Expression Pedal with that rig? Have fun the Tour!
Thats exactly right too, but also true for the others (to be fair). I thought about maybe a volume pedal, but decided its not worth it for the set. I am pretty active with the guitar controls
@@SteveSterlacci I just finished a board with Cioks DC7 to Tonex pedal + Hx effects (Hx using 2 power slots, Tonex in the fx loop). Works beautifully. You get the 4 snapshots and the scribble strips too. Only thing that sucks is having to take up 2 send/return blocks to run instrument level to the Tonex and line level back to the HX. Probably way overpowered for my use case but it's future-proofed.
just to say : if i had to gig overseas like you i would have used the hxstomp (+ small stereo switches to add switches possibilities))+ the tonex. same size on your board but way , way better , why ? every touring guys has a backing rig to save the gig because things can go wrong anytime ..tonex would be your stomp backup or the stomp your tonex backup ON THE MOMENT = you save the gig.in your case if things go wrong at 10pm during a gig i doubt you can stop the gig and bo buy another hxstomp xl , so it's a gig fail..just my 2 cents, have a nice day.
Your point about availability, and the relationship that you have with the companies... that is HUGE, isn't it! Question. Are you traveling with a back up Stomp XL tucked away somewhere?
I had one ready to go, but weight and suitcase constraints prevented it. I think i have at least okay amps at all the shows, so i could use the backline with the nordland
@@SteveSterlacci That would scare me so far from home, but a little less knowing that there's probably Line 6 dealers with SOMEthing in stock near you most every place you go. That said, I've never had a gig go south with Helix or HX Stomp, so...
I have a boss 1000 series pedal and I recently got the hx stomp (baby one). I personally find the feel and sound completely different, but I don't hate it, just takes getting used to. I find both are more than good enough. That said, to me, the most important factor is the customer support, and like you said, line6 is very good in that aspect. The HX series still feels relevant, which makes me feel much better about my purchase, especially these days when there are so many options. I just wish I had invested in the line6 ecosystem before boss.
Totally get it! L6 has made their products to stay relevant, which is really so cool. Even if i was stuck with thrse for the next 10 years id still be happy
Hello Steve! Hoping you and family are fine. First of all, thanks for the wonderful videos in your channel. I recently bought a hx stomp xl. Let me know of you can answer this for me, as I tried to find an answer but no succes. 1- When I assign a snapshot in command center. For example FS 6 to snapshot 3, when I change to any other snapshot, FS 6 turn into “Next” mode [^ ] Dont know why 2- How can I change a parameter in snapshots? If I want my snapshot 4 to have a longer delay (using only one delay block in the preset) I Tried but no success! If you have time To answer this, I will Appreciate it!! Thanks and keep the good work!
Hello and thanks for the kind words! Each snapshot in command center has its own settings, so whenever you select a snapshot via command center, that snapshot has its own separate set of settings, so you just have to set up each one (this is very confusing to type, but if you get it, it makes sense). And to change parameters on snapshots, just press in and turn the knob so you see white brackets around the parameter. That means its being controlled by snapshots. Remember to save often!
I sold my QC last year, and my FM9 a couple of months ago (still have multiple HX units), but for future reference and with respect to the QC's power supply, you can easily buy a laptop-style power brick with an IEC or Figure-8 connector to power the QC. #justsayin
I like your logic Steve for the choice you made & I’ve been wanting Ro lighten my load from carrying my HELIX Floor around even though I love that thing. From you last video I started exploring the idea of the Stomp XL on a board with maybe a few pedals. I already have a Pedaltrain Jr that’s wired with. Voodoo lab Power Plus 2 underneath. I play contemporary jazz, smooth jazz, & fusion, & back up other artist in the genre too. So I need to have certain sound set that I can get with the floor but I think I would have to add a couple pedals due the XL only having one path & one chip. I’ve been experimenting trying to design a rig for the basic sounds then I could decide what pedal(s) I may need to add. Really need to add a wah & volume for sure. Sorry to be long. Thanks for sharing what & how you do what you do. BTW, I live in Columbus. Have a great tour.
Hey Duane! Thanks for the support. We played Fenders last summer. I experimented by seeing if I could "get away" with just the XL. Basic amp and few pedals in the chain. I found I quite enjoyed having to make a few great decisions rather than have an unlimited palate of "well, I could do this". It's been pretty liberating for my playing
For the QC I think you can just grab the "out of the box" adapter, swap out the plug connector & be good to go - could be wrong though but I don't see any different PSU SKU for the Quad Cortex.
It would work with a straight up adapter being that its dual voltage, but I hate depending on adapters when playing our shows. I feel much better being able to plug in to their native outlets without risking an adapter coming loose. Plus, the stock supply is so flimsy and idk how it would hold up over time traveling in a gig bag
@@SteveSterlacci Oh, I know - got rid of mine recently. The HX Stomp is a worthy & reliable choice! Good luck on tour! Hope you guys have a great time!
That is disappointing about nueral. They’ve always been very responsive to my emails. Can definitely see the appeal of the hx stomp xl, it’s got to be one of the best value modellers. I will get tickets for your London gig for sure!
I’m planning on buying one of the HX Stomp XL’s but I’m curious as to how you’re powering it. Did you have to use any voltage doubler cable or does the 1 Spot power supply already have whatever power is needed from just one cable?
Great video. Question for you, maybe I missed it, but how do you run your rig? Do you just go direct to FOH and use in-ears or monitors? I understand the HX Stomp doesn't have XLR, so does that mean you'd need a 1/4" to XLR adapter?
Do you think you will eventually add the Tonex? I have only spent a couple days with mine and man, those tones are something. I did ditch my helix floor for the stomp, I might keep the Tonex though and run it with the stomp for a multi effects box, like you did in your video, that thing is really growing on me. Stay safe out there!
I did try adding tonex to this mix, but its size and weight IMO didnt warrant the difference in tone. I did like having this set up with my actual 3 favorite amp rigs, though. But I think im good enough with HX to get it sounding as close to the amps as tonex
Why wouldn't you just carry a spare $25 power transformer for the Quad Cortex? My Captures of my (non-Mark Sampson era) Matchless DC-30 smokes the DC30s already in any of the other boxes. Plus my 68 Plexi, plus my Jim Kelley, plus my 55 Supro, you get the idea. The Quad Cortex is my only serious rig. Quality first! Even if I anticipated a problem with the QC, I would carry a Sans-Amp backup because it's totally worth it to have my far superior IMO sounds. Good luck on the tour!
Steve all that sounds like well thought out logic but was just curious what your take on the Fractal FM3 would be? Would that be a possible solution for your current gigging needs? Also curious if the ToneX pedal was a consideration, but was left out do to size constraints? Cheers and good luck on your upcoming tour dates.
Thanks Chris! Great questions. I dont have an FM3 and i do think i would need more than the 3 available FS (the hold functions aren't appealing to be honest). Tonex was on my trial board here, but couldn't make it fit. If I get the risers, it would be the first thing added.
Helix is great, I have mine for over 7 years now and I get your points. If I go direct FOH I use the Quad Cortex since it feels more realistic in my opinion. The QC sounds better and is easier to dial a good sound when compared to the Helix. If I go 4 cable method with my amp I use the Helix. I haven’t got the QC to work well with my amps. The Helix is much more flexible and have all the features that you will ever need, that’s why I will never sell it. Regarding Fractal, I don’t think it sounds better than the QC, period!
I would use Jessicas hx stomp if it came down to it and hope to have one over nighted. I will most likely always have a backline amp, whether its good or not. So I will be able to get by with the Nordland and backline amp
Call me crazy, but I take 2 Helixes on the road. I figured I have to take clothes with me anyway, so that requires a separate suitcase. So I got the biggest suitcase that can be checked in, and put my Helix LT in there with my clothes :) I've had issues with the buttons crapping out before, so I will never take any chance with the Line 6 gear when I have to play a 2.5 hour show that people spend hours getting to, sometimes flying from other countries.... Looking forward to travel vlogs!
Steve, there's no excuse for ANYONE not answering your email, and that's regardless of who you are. Unfortunately for them, you are a RU-vid influencer, so all the more reasons to make your email a priority. Have a good tour.
I don't ask for priority anything. But an answer would have been nice! Lol I was even willing to pay for the extra cables, just needed to know how to get them. Unfortunate for them to not answer
Hi Steve, I’m curious if you are using an FRFR for stage volume? I know you are likely running IEM, but are you just running through floor wedges in front of you or placed behind you for stage volume?
Did you use the trutone cables that came with the cs6 for the hx? Just got a new one and noticed they now include the splitter to use both 500mA 9v for the hx, still need to fudge the red and green adapters in there but better (imo) than only using one 500mA on the cs6 which somehow works too.
@@SteveSterlacciI have a Helix and just picked up the stomp XL. Can you tell me specifically what cables I need to power the XL with my true tone CS7? I'm hearing a lot of different info on what works
@@SteveSterlacci it's really useful to know. I've been thinking of putting something together with the stomp and tonex to have something smaller than the floor to lug around. This is very relevant info to know great to hear your experience.
My experience is the following. The only downside to the FM9 is the size and weight. Other than that there is no comparison in terms of sound. The Helix is solid but I stopped using it because the fractal is so much more subtle in so many ways. It just blows away the sound of the helix.
I wish I could've fit it on the board. I refuse to check it under a plane so it had to be my carry on. Also, something about the matchless just sounds so boxy to me. One of few amps i heavily favor helix for
@SteveSterlacci going direct was always convenient for me but I played a lot of clubs where something was wrong with the system and I ended up not being able to hear myself, so I switched back to playing into amps for stage volume. I have to use separate patches on my POD Go and HX Stomp that don't use any type of speaker emulation or it sounds wonky though lol. Thanks for the response!
Rather disappointing about Neural DSP but from what I’ve read online not surprising. I was thinking of a QC but if an influencer like you can’t get a response from a company, that pretty much makes my decision easy to skip on the QC. I’ll stick to my FM9 and Stomp backup.
Not to stan on them but the way he worded that part makes me think he had an email contact of a specific employee at ndsp and he sent his email to them rather than support. Normally you'd just send your issue to support and I've heard good things about ndsp's support team.
Nice video, as usual, Steve. For those that might be interested ------> I found a heavy-duty power adapter for the quad cortex (does not require any extras) that I mounted to my board - the small cable is built well and it stays plugged in. The power adapter takes an IEC cable. My board is simple --> the quad cortex and a Mission exp. pedal designed for the quad cortex, which can provide multiple functions (it has 2 cable connections). For now, I just plug the IEC into the quad cortex and I'm good to go. I plan to purchase a high-capacity battery eventually, to mount on the underside of the board. It is pricey but provides 6-8 hours of power. The pedal board came with a nice case (very close to Mono quality). branded Ghost Fire. It came with zip ties and velcro (I used something better though) and was only $150 (Amazon). For high-quality protective covers for popular modelers (and large footswitch thingys like you have), I recommend checking out gearbyceba.com
My toppers are also CEBA! Chad is the best. Definitely a cool idea to power QC in a safer and more reliable way. I have to look into that when I get home
@@SteveSterlacci No , it's not needed to be on the board . Surprisingly I been using the Sennheiser XSW-D INSTRUMENT BASE SET nothing had worked better . I had the shure GLXD16 , line6 g10 and g30 . I only wished the battery life was better so for that matter I got myself two sets .
Well, the new ones are so great (actual matchless ones), but in this preset that pre dates that firmware, its the v30 mixed with the g25 just like the real one. I show the new cabs in my 3.6 video if u wanna sneak peek
You might be asking yourself, does Steve really drink 5$ a cup coffee 😂 I’m gonna give your matchless a try soon I trust your opinion and experiences I love my HX stomp
Closer than fractal for sure, and i think is capable of sounding just as good as tonex after its dialed in. I just finished the tour mentioned in this vid and was thrilled with the matchless tone every gig
Such a lethal combo! I found I can get all I need out of just this with the external OD. If the tonex was a bit smaller and fit on the board, it would 100% be there too
I love my HX stomp, but I’ve struggled with clipping, I feel all my preset have some strange breakup, this will sound cliche but it sounds like a digital breakup, as if I was clipping my interference input, but I get this even thru the headphones out, I’ve always checked my levels, patch volume, master volume, etc, now I dont get this with the tone x or with my neural dsp plugins.
@David Fernandez have you tried the channel volume down? Often times people dont touch it, but will up the gain and master volume of the models. The channel volume is the only one that can balance out presets and not affect tone. I usually bypass the amp and cab to see how much louder it is than my raw guitar signal. It should be somewhat similar. If its insanely different, than your presets are too loud
@@SteveSterlacci At least it's not Mr. Snuffleupagus or something (although the hair was a bit iffy in this video! LOL) Aside from that I bloody love your channel, you've easily become my go to channel for guitar content. I'm from England but live in the Pacific NW, if you tour this way I'd definitely enjoy coming out to see you play live. And maybe even take you up on having a pint, coffee... or pint of coffee! 😁
