BLIND TEST: Axe Fx III vs Helix (High-Gain) UPDATE: Reveal posted!

[Deleted member 27494]

Time for another blind test!

The Helix and Axe Fx III are basically my favorite modelers. I have favorite high-gain amp models in each platform, they both serve me well. I wanted to do a simple comparison at first but I figured, why not make it a blind test for starters? The thing is, people seem to be able to tell the modeling platforms apart "very easily" because the fizz etc. give it away. So why not put that to the test?

There's no real amp involved this time, it's just the two modeling platforms going head to head. The amp models aren't even based on the same amps but if each platform does have audible "artifacts" that are unique to the platform you should be able to tell which is which. And if you're in the "you can't tell the difference with high-gain tones" camp, maybe this isn't for you

If you want me to count your guesses for the reveal video (which would be more interesting) please also drop your vote in the comment section of the YT video. Enjoy and try to have fun!



Update: here's the reveal:

 

[SQUAREHEAD]

I spent one whole month with all three units, the helix / axe fx / Kemper…

The helix was the first one to be eliminated, the effects section of the axe effects was really glorious, but the amplifier pure organic tones were just a tad better with the Kemper, so that was the one for me.

Great video John and yes, through a PA system, I defy anyone to be able to tell the difference between these two you have presented… In a live situation, 500 people drinking beer with a cranked up PA system, virtually exactly the same.
But, what it comes down to for the player is the way the unit feels under your fingers and how it reacts to the touch.

 

[PBGas]

I've had all three units over the years as well. Used with a nice tube amp, the Helix was the best unit for 4CM setup and very easy to use. Some solid IRs with the Helix and it works great on its own as well. It will be neat to see what they come up with next.

However, as a pure modelling rig, I still just prefer using the Axe III. I like how things are setup on the unit itself and the editor is amazing as well as the ins/outs of the unit.

I'm not a fan of the Kemper however, there is no doubt that is a solid unit and is widely used by many.

 

[Geo]

A is preferable to my ear.

 

[gbsmusic]

In my opinion they sound the same but I'm also listening through my phone. I will say A seems to be just a little bit brighter.

 

[SQUAREHEAD]

I've had all three units over the years as well. Used with a nice tube amp, the Helix was the best unit for 4CM setup and very easy to use. Some solid IRs with the Helix and it works great on its own as well. It will be neat to see what they come up with next.

However, as a pure modelling rig, I still just prefer using the Axe III. I like how things are setup on the unit itself and the editor is amazing as well as the ins/outs of the unit.

I'm not a fan of the Kemper however, there is no doubt that is a solid unit and is widely used by many.

The Kemper’s a bitch for tweaking at first, there’s a lot to know, but of course, the AxeFx is a great unit?
In my opinion both units are better than the Helix, but, A lot of it is so subjective…

 

[Deleted member 27494]

I will post the results tomorrow (Friday) so be sure to cast your vote before then!

 

[Deleted member 27494]

Here's the reveal:

 

[Devin]

I preferred the Helix....they both sound fantastic though!

 

[Sneerim]

I give a slight edge to the AF3 here. The Helix was solid, but it sounded a little thin to me. The Fractal sounded more substantial.