Alembic instruments with the latest amp modeling/multi effects all in one pedals

[moongerm]

Anyone give the latest multi effects and amp modeling all in one units a whirl with their Alembic, especially in a stereo setup? Specifically referring to the new Eleven/Avid Headrush & the Helix pedals.  There are also the Torpedo, AxeFX, Kemper, and other high end units some of which don't have any effects.

[David Houck]

I use the Fractal AX8.  You can hear how I use it here.

[moongerm]

Wow Dave.  Love the warm attack and rich tones, how did I miss this post! Nice playing! Was the AX8 a recent purchase and did you compare it against the Helix by chance?

[David Houck]

I picked it up a little over a year ago.  I did a lot of research at the time, but can't recall what it was.  But at the time, I thought the AX8 was by far the best thing for what I wanted to do at that price.  A full Axe-FX with a controller is a lot more expensive, but has more processing power and capabilities.  The ability to program it with a computer in real time really appealed to me; and that on-screen layout has enabled me to learn a lot more about setting up delays, reverbs, etc.  I still have a lot to learn, but I'm able to do so much more than I was with the rack units.

[moongerm]

I have been using Eventide H9s which are fine and was looking to add the TC Electronics G System just for the bridge pickup. I had to stop myself from jumping on a used G System and see what else is out there since it is over 10 year old technology. Looking for something more inspiring, better sounding, and flexible for a stereo bass so my search has led me to now the AX8, Helix, and Headrush. I like the I/O capabilities of the Helix. The Headrush has 4 DSPs being the latest addition to the competition and a neat looking touchscreen but seems to be lacking in the amount of modeling, efx and i/o features that the AX8 and Helix already have.

[David Houck]

The AX8 has only a mono input, but there are stereo versions of most of the effects, like chorus, delay, reverb, etc, and when they are at the end of the signal chain, the output will be stereo.

But if you want to maintain the separation of the neck and bridge pickups on your bass, the AX8 won't work for that.

[moongerm]

 I bet with your playing and your bass you could achieve similar tones on any of the others. If you wind up recording more with the AX8 please do share . 

[David Houck]

Thank you, Brian.  Much appreciated.

[edwin]

I've been thinking about the FX-8 to replace my aging Lexicon MPX G2. I'm not so much interested in amp modeling, so it seems like a good way to go.

[David Houck]

Edwin; I'm no expert, but in my view the effects are very programmable, and to my ears sound very good.  Of course, my ears are somewhat the worse for wear.

[edwin]

Edwin; I'm no expert, but in my view the effects are very programmable, and to my ears sound very good.  Of course, my ears are somewhat the worse for wear.

I'm sure they are in much better shape than mine!

[moongerm]

So I decided today to pull the trigger on the Flagship Helix. I will report back with any interesting info. If it doesn't work out then it's on to the AX8 most likely. 

[edwin]

So I decided today to pull the trigger on the Flagship Helix. I will report back with any interesting info. If it doesn't work out then it's on to the AX8 most likely. 

Looking forward to hearing about it!