Looking for a studio tool... Helix or AxeFX III?

[PhloridaMan]

Recently, I have began expanding and upgrading my home studio. My main guitar rig is great, but it's not always preferred for me to crank up the 6505+ and 4x12 just to get into creative mode.

I am a previous owner of a Kemper and it just didn't really work for me, therefore I am interested in the Helix and AxeFX III as an addition to my desk solely for the purpose of writing and recording when I get an idea, and not pissing off my roommate or neighbors all the time.

I would prefer the opinions of any who currently or previously have owned both at some point in time, but I am open to all opinions and suggestions on this matter.

The biggest thing I am looking for is ease of use. I would love to be able to get the exact same tone in my DAW with either as I can with an SM57 in front of my 4x12, but that is not imperative. I would be using the device to create tones mostly, not really try to mimic something else.

I would also love to hear the comparative pro's and con's.

Been watching a ton of YouTube videos on these but figured I would ask here as well.

I appreciate any help.

 

[dirtyfunkg]

I haven't used or owned an Axe FX (outside of a brief stint with an AX8), but my Helix has done everything I've wanted. Coupled with Helix Native (which I got for a heavy discount as a Helix hardware owner), I don't find myself wanting.

My setup in my basement is to use my Helix as my interface. I'm using my heads with a Power Station as a dummy load, using the Helix in 4CM... then using an IR in the Helix to track into my DAW. I can get the dry DI take, and my wet "miked" take.

From everything I hear and read, the Axe FX can do all of what I'm doing with my Helix, but Helix Native can be a real difference maker for what DI takes you've already recorded if you want to put some high quality modeling on that. Obviously, the Axe FX III has its pros also, most notably the sheer number of models, etc. Helix has a lot of catch up to do on that front.

I did have noise issues in this setup and posted a thread in TGP trying to troubleshoot. Turns out there was a grounding incompatibility between the Power Station and the Helix. I have heard the same issue exists with Axe FX. All I needed to resolve it is this guy: https://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-aud ... ger-hd400/

BTW I have a Helix Floor. For me, this is probably ideal because I still use it for rehearsals, etc, and it's nice to just have one unit to take out as opposed to a rack unit and a foot controller.

 

[PhloridaMan]

I haven't used or owned an Axe FX (outside of a brief stint with an AX8), but my Helix has done everything I've wanted. Coupled with Helix Native (which I got for a heavy discount as a Helix hardware owner), I don't find myself wanting.

My setup in my basement is to use my Helix as my interface. I'm using my heads with a Power Station as a dummy load, using the Helix in 4CM... then using an IR in the Helix to track into my DAW. I can get the dry DI take, and my wet "miked" take.

From everything I hear and read, the Axe FX can do all of what I'm doing with my Helix, but Helix Native can be a real difference maker for what DI takes you've already recorded if you want to put some high quality modeling on that. Obviously, the Axe FX III has its pros also, most notably the sheer number of models, etc. Helix has a lot of catch up to do on that front.

I did have noise issues in this setup and posted a thread in TGP trying to troubleshoot. Turns out there was a grounding incompatibility between the Power Station and the Helix. I have heard the same issue exists with Axe FX. All I needed to resolve it is this guy: https://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-aud ... ger-hd400/

BTW I have a Helix Floor. For me, this is probably ideal because I still use it for rehearsals, etc, and it's nice to just have one unit to take out as opposed to a rack unit and a foot controller.

See I would probably never use 90% of the models in the AxeFX anyway...

Basically what I am looking for is quality and bang for buck.

I want to be able to build tones to create metal, rock, country, blues, pop punk/punk etc. I could probably get along fine with about 5 general amp model types such as 5150/6505, Marshall JCM800, Fender Twin Reverb, Mesa Dual Rectifier and maybe a Roland JC120. I can't really think of what more I would personally want. Maybe a SLO100 or Plexi as well but I can likely build off those first 5 for what I typically do just fine. I would also like multiple types of quality effects to work with. I had a Fractal FX8 for a short bit and while most of the effects were great, some just didn't work as desired.

 

[4406cuda]

I have not used a Helix, but I just got an AXE FX III

I did a test recording directly in to Reaper and was pleasantly surprised how authentic it sounded. I also plugged it in to a Power Station and a 2 x 12 cab and it rocked. The effects in the AXE FXIII are amazing!

 

[Kevin11]

Disclaimer - I own and use Helix floor - do not own an AxeFX III

Tone being the subjective thing it is, I think you're most likely to get the better amp models and effects in the Axe.

For sheer ease of use and bang for buck, Helix hands-down. I've had mine for a few years now and it's a killer piece of gear in its own right.

Having watched just about every Axe III vid out there, I don't think it's a secret to anyone how deep that thing can be if that's your thing. Seems like it's got some killer models right out of the box, but maybe overkill based on what you're looking for.

 

[dirtyfunkg]

I haven't used or owned an Axe FX (outside of a brief stint with an AX8), but my Helix has done everything I've wanted. Coupled with Helix Native (which I got for a heavy discount as a Helix hardware owner), I don't find myself wanting.

My setup in my basement is to use my Helix as my interface. I'm using my heads with a Power Station as a dummy load, using the Helix in 4CM... then using an IR in the Helix to track into my DAW. I can get the dry DI take, and my wet "miked" take.

From everything I hear and read, the Axe FX can do all of what I'm doing with my Helix, but Helix Native can be a real difference maker for what DI takes you've already recorded if you want to put some high quality modeling on that. Obviously, the Axe FX III has its pros also, most notably the sheer number of models, etc. Helix has a lot of catch up to do on that front.

I did have noise issues in this setup and posted a thread in TGP trying to troubleshoot. Turns out there was a grounding incompatibility between the Power Station and the Helix. I have heard the same issue exists with Axe FX. All I needed to resolve it is this guy: https://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-aud ... ger-hd400/

BTW I have a Helix Floor. For me, this is probably ideal because I still use it for rehearsals, etc, and it's nice to just have one unit to take out as opposed to a rack unit and a foot controller.

See I would probably never use 90% of the models in the AxeFX anyway...

Basically what I am looking for is quality and bang for buck.

I want to be able to build tones to create metal, rock, country, blues, pop punk/punk etc. I could probably get along fine with about 5 general amp model types such as 5150/6505, Marshall JCM800, Fender Twin Reverb, Mesa Dual Rectifier and maybe a Roland JC120. I can't really think of what more I would personally want. Maybe a SLO100 or Plexi as well but I can likely build off those first 5 for what I typically do just fine. I would also like multiple types of quality effects to work with. I had a Fractal FX8 for a short bit and while most of the effects were great, some just didn't work as desired.

All makes sense.

So maybe a few clarifying questions:

1. Do you want an all-in-one solution, or do you hope to use your existing pedal board into your new modeler?
2. Do you hope to incorporate whatever modeler you get into your live/rehearsal rig?
3. Do you currently own an interface?

When it comes to bang for buck, if all you want is an amp modeler with 2-3 effects involved and/or are happy to use your existing pedalboard into your new modeler, then I think the best bang for the buck may be the HX Stomp. $600 new but can go down with a coupon code or negotiation. If you need even less, then maybe consider the POD Go?

If you want something as more of an all-in-one solution, then Helix LT/Floor/Rack, or one of the Fractal products starts to come into play. At that point, it's kind of a wash between the two. Helix is a bit more user friendly (and has the benefit of the Helix Native discount), but Fractal has more models and effects modeling is generally more highly respected.

I do think that reverbs are kind of a weak spot on my Helix, but I use DAW reverbs for recording anyways. The delays are very strong IMHO. I'd also say that the Stupor Overdrive (SD-1 model) does not really play or feel like my real SD-1, which is my go-to overdrive pedal for tightening an amp and slamming the input a bit harder.

I heard that Fractal finally got some polyphonic pitch shifting into their most recent firmware update. Line 6 claims to be working hard on this (and have hired a some ex-Digitech folk) but Fractal may have beaten them to the punch. This is the only component that hasn't made me want to ditch my pedalboard in favor of the Helix yet. I need my Whammy V and TC Sub n Up (which is a POG type pedal).

I hope I did not muddy the waters even more.

 

[ErikT]

If you're looking for something to just record riffs and ideas but still sounds killer, I'd recommend the Neural DSP Nolly plugin. I've owned the AX8, HX Stomp and Axe III. I much prefer tube amps, even through a load box into IRs but if I'm feeling lazy or need to record something quick the Nolly plugin is great. Has great amp-like feel and this particular plugin comes with 4 different amps, compression, 2 ODs, 1 pre delay, 1 post delay, 1 post reverb and eq.

 

[sleewell2]

Helix is sweet.

Axe is awesome too.


Get both.

 

[xzyryabx]

Just out of curiosity, what about the Kemper made you pass on it?

 

[dirtyfunkg]

If you're looking for something to just record riffs and ideas but still sounds killer, I'd recommend the Neural DSP Nolly plugin. I've owned the AX8, HX Stomp and Axe III. I much prefer tube amps, even through a load box into IRs but if I'm feeling lazy or need to record something quick the Nolly plugin is great. Has great amp-like feel and this particular plugin comes with 4 different amps, compression, 2 ODs, 1 pre delay, 1 post delay, 1 post reverb and eq.

I was going to recommend the plug-in route, but I think latency can play a role. I used to be a plugins guy but after comparing between plugin vs hardware modeling, I realized the difference. You can still get great tones and it can feel nice while you're playing, but listening back the sync/tightness can be impacted.

 

[stratjacket]

Long time AxeFx guy here (had the Ultra, AxeII and AxeIII). You can get as easy or hard (deep) as you want to go. I have 4 presets that I play based around the SLO, JVM, Shiva and a Plexi. I just made the Plexi last week, mainly pay the SLO. I setup each patch with EQ, OD, Amp, EQ, Cab, Delay and Reverb. I don’t dig into all the settings, just adjust as I would setup the real gear. Play through my studio monitors. Sounds amazing. Just turn it on and play, set it and forget it. It’s an amazing system, so flexible but sounds great without having to tweak forever too. Highly recommend.

Anytime I want to record, just launch pro tools and hit record.

I’m sure the Helix is great too. I used to have the older Line 6 stuff.

 

[Monkey Man]

Just out of curiosity, what about the Kemper made you pass on it?

I'm curious too, brother.

 

[gtr31]

if all you want is the Helix Tones, Ability to record and reamp , Stupid easy GUI and Fun

seriously , no joke the Pod Go $450.

its cannot do multiple cabs , amps won't be able to poly shift when that comes later , but for sound and simplicity can't beat it

PS . is not your dad's POD , it Basically a Helix Ultra light

 

[PBGas]

While I love my Axe III and have had a Helix, both units are great. The Helix is super intuitive and sounds good. The Axe III is great as well. I’ve had mine for a couple of years so it has some great staying power with me. Like you, I was not a fan of the Kemper stuff at all.

These days though, I find myself wanting to use my amps more. I run the Waza TAE with mine. If you love your amp tone and can get use out of it for everything you do, i would recommend trying that route instead. You can play quietly, run direct, use it as an interface, use the built in effects with it, switch your amp, attenuate your amp, Import IRs for some variety, etc....etc.....

For me it was the do it all box that ties my entire setup together for live, rehearsing, and recording.

 

[PhloridaMan]

So maybe a few clarifying questions:

1. Do you want an all-in-one solution, or do you hope to use your existing pedal board into your new modeler?
2. Do you hope to incorporate whatever modeler you get into your live/rehearsal rig?
3. Do you currently own an interface?

1. All in one is my preference. I have never had pedal boards really. I am pretty simple with my rig. Right now I only have an OD808 and MXR 7 Band EQ in my setup. The purpose for this will mainly be a studio and creation tool not only for myself, but for anyone I help do recordings for.
2. No
3. I currently have a Presonus Studio 1824C with a Presonus Digimax D8 connected via ADAT.

 

[PhloridaMan]

Just out of curiosity, what about the Kemper made you pass on it?

I'm curious too, brother.

Just wasn't a fan. It was a cool unit, but it really wasn't super user friendly to me and I found myself spending hours getting frustrated because I wasn't able to craft the tone I was looking for despite spending a few hundred on some of the top profiles out there.

In watching the videos of the Helix and AxeFX it just seems more intuitive and it also seemed you could more easily create quality tones with what is already there.

 

[PhloridaMan]

While I love my Axe III and have had a Helix, both units are great. The Helix is super intuitive and sounds good. The Axe III is great as well. I’ve had mine for a couple of years so it has some great staying power with me. Like you, I was not a fan of the Kemper stuff at all.

These days though, I find myself wanting to use my amps more. I run the Waza TAE with mine. If you love your amp tone and can get use out of it for everything you do, i would recommend trying that route instead. You can play quietly, run direct, use it as an interface, use the built in effects with it, switch your amp, attenuate your amp, Import IRs for some variety, etc....etc.....

For me it was the do it all box that ties my entire setup together for live, rehearsing, and recording.

For me, the Helix/AxeFX will be more than for myself. I am slowly building out a small home studio that I want to expand a bit so that I can help out younger local bands who maybe don't have big cash flow by providing an affordable recording service to get their music out there. To me, something like the Helix or Fractal could allow garage bands to have fairly high quality guitar tones and a CD to market themselves with rather than the 1 room mic recordings I tend to hear a lot. I personally do not play much anymore, but I have a huge passion for music so want to help others if I can.

I did a bunch more looking around this weekend and might actually be leaning towards an AxeFX II XL. 2U can sit right under my monitor stand front and center on my desk and really make things simple for tweaking etc. I also doubt I would really need all the features the III or Helix has available and the price is much more doable at the moment.

It doesn't really seem there are a ton of cons with either, but from my video searches and listening to demos through my Kali LP8s, it seems the AxeFX II actually is a little more crisp and natural sounding than a Helix. Not sure how much that will really matter in a mix, but it's a little more inspiring to me as well. If that makes any sense lol

 

[Monkey Man]

Just out of curiosity, what about the Kemper made you pass on it?

I'm curious too, brother.

Just wasn't a fan. It was a cool unit, but it really wasn't super user friendly to me and I found myself spending hours getting frustrated because I wasn't able to craft the tone I was looking for despite spending a few hundred on some of the top profiles out there.

In watching the videos of the Helix and AxeFX it just seems more intuitive and it also seemed you could more easily create quality tones with what is already there.

Thank you for responding, Phil.

 

[PhloridaMan]

Just out of curiosity, what about the Kemper made you pass on it?

I'm curious too, brother.

Just wasn't a fan. It was a cool unit, but it really wasn't super user friendly to me and I found myself spending hours getting frustrated because I wasn't able to craft the tone I was looking for despite spending a few hundred on some of the top profiles out there.

In watching the videos of the Helix and AxeFX it just seems more intuitive and it also seemed you could more easily create quality tones with what is already there.

Thank you for responding, Phil.

I would never discourage anyone from buying one or at least finding a way to spend time with one. I actually made a profile of my 6505+ that a number of people here on RT as well as many FB groups touted as being one of the best they had ever heard. It really was a bad ass unit, just at the end of the day it wasn't just what I wanted kind of like all the other amps I have owned lol

 

[Monkey Man]

I hear ya bro'.

I can't help but wonder whether if your stint had occurred now, when Rig Manager has the editor built-in, you would've found it more-intuitive (and a whole lot quicker) to deal with.

Even a simple thing like trying new cab IR's, which used to require conversion via Cab Maker and importation via USB stick, is now a drag-and-drop away and you can store your IR repository in RM, sorted however you like, like Presets and Rigs. It's chalk-and-cheese.

I've not been affected either way 'cause I'm kinda-dumb (or more-kindly, old-school) in the way I use the unit. Browse Rigs in RM (I keep the unit empty except for a default Profile so my wah is already locked in slot 1) 'til I like what I hear, play for a while, then browse again. The only tweaking I ever do is to Definition and Stack EQ. I'm such a goof.