So, whilst I'm am loving the helix, as a studio / practice tool, the quality of the FX and ease of modulating perameters and introduction of snapshots has got me thinking about replacing my board.
However, I don't want to keep having to remove the helix from my "studio" setup, so my eye is wandering to getting an FX 8, it seems the ideal board for a mfx without amp modelling. (yes, I am 100% aware of the 1st world nature of this problem)
So what's good about it, what's bad (I don't believe in the perfect product...)
Been adding up my remaining pedals, and I reckon shifting the lot would just about equal 2nd hand fx 8...
Comments
I'm not knocking the FX8, but if you've found something you like and can work with, stick with it.
No point deliberately getting something that isn't directly compatible with your studio rig (which you already know how to get the best from) if you don't have to, unless there's something specific that you need which the Helix can't provide. Also, a second Helix means you've got a backup.
- Superior sounds to the Helix
- Stunning delays and verbs
- excellent used via computer
- rock solid build quality
- the best looper I've used
- simple to use
- very instinctive
- unity volume instantly (it's best feature imho)
- absolutely mind blowing in stereo with 2 amps
I'll shut up now... I could go on forever...
What's Bad
- more difficult to use 'leaned over on the floor'
- can't save looper loops
- drives needs a tad more tweaking
Quite simply, THE best music related purchase Ive ever made...
I've recently had the AX8 to go with the FX8, and I just cannot bring myself to choose between them. Both are stunning,
with the AX8 requiring a bit more tweaking...
Much as I like the helix, I really don't want two of them.
Actually, there is also a cost question. Right now in CH 2nd hand, the helix is holding it's price. FX8 is not.. about 250 less for an fx8
I don't want to be able to save loops- but this is more a philosophical position about looping being a 'capturing moment in time'- I can see how people will want this.
One other thing is running out of CPU but if you remember to reduce reverb quality then it is a non issue.
Studio: https://www.voltperoctave.com
Music: https://www.euclideancircuits.com
Me: https://www.jamesrichmond.com
The AX8 is SO versatile though; you can assign a switch to do ANYTHING, including hold, freeze etc etc and you can switch amps and cabs in and out.
I've currently got a Dumble (modelled) running into a real Rambler, and it sounds immense.
I would wait fir the new model also, I have a lot of problem with the cpu power, most of the time I was using reverb and it just didn't seem to have the power for it.
I I think the ax8 is slightly quicker to tweak with the dedicated preamp knobs. It can be run as fx only and then be pretty much an fx8 with more options - Eg use a preamp part of an amp model instead of a drive block.
https://imgur.com/a/KeFlm
I've decided against FX8 - I'm really happy with helix and if I ever did more gigs, I would look at putting that in my live rig instead..