Modeler vs Real Deal...

[LesStrat]

I’ll add that when the band records again, which likely will be in the next couple of months, I plan to go direct from the Helix. I might change my mind, but I doubt it. I love the sounds I am getting from this device.

Plus, I invested in Helix Native for the band computer. I can record out via usb, and record a modeled and a clean track simultaneously. That will allow re-amping and track doubling (or more) with Native.

[lreese]

I like to play nekkid.  Not naked, just plugged straight in.   Wait...  I should not use the words naked and plugged in the same sentence. :monkey:

Helix Native sounds enticing.  Hmm....

I'm due for some new computer hardware first.  The old Mini is still ample, but its over 5 years old.

[LesStrat]

Native is a plug in with ALL of the Helix software.

[karpathion]

This may sound like heresy, but I’ve never had a tube amp. In fact, my Fender Champion 100 is the biggest, loudest amp I’ve ever owned… not that I’ve owned all that many amps. The fact is, I would rather use a solid-state amp clean with modeling to come up with my sound just because I like the ability to sound good at any volume.  

I should say, though, that I believe everything you’re telling me… I just have no interest in owning a better amp because I’m afraid that I’ll become spoiled!

The music project I recently joined has kind of an interesting business plan. Our bass player works as a booking agent for a local brewery and all he sees are acoustic solo and duo acts.  He came up with the idea of having a small (three-piece) rock band that could play this type of place without melting faces but still providing a more lively performance.  My 40-watt 1x12 is the perfect size for this band and modeling easily provides The right sound for the relatively low volume.

Nothing wrong with that at all. I used SS Crate and Randall amps, with floor based effects processors for 10 years. My old Digitech and Boss processors still make me smile when I break one out to play with. The Digitech RP12 is still one of my all time favorites, followed by the Boss GT-8. 

In a band setting, live, and on stage, no one will care. You are still going to sound good as long as you can play. (Not saying you can't. That may have come out wrong.)

Most all of the local live players I've seen in the last couple of years, besides metal bands, go direct with some sort of Modeler, laptop, or even a cell phone. Once they start playing, you'd never know it if you aren't an experienced player and tube amp guy. It's not really that big of a deal. If they are playing Freebird, it's still Freebird, you now?

I like to use drag cars as an example.To me, the SS amps and modelers are like the tricked out 4 banger Honda's, and Toyota's. They will get that ass for about the first 500', and come off the line like nobodies business. The reaction times are always faster, and if you slip up, it might still outrun you. The big tube amps are like the Pro-mod 8 cylinders. That little Honda might get you off the line, but after that first 500', you better look out, because I'm blowing it's doors off at around 800', and have a much higher top speed. But in the end, we are both just putting a car down the track as fast as we can, and are enjoying the hell out of it. It's fun and entertainment no matter which cars are at the tree.

Tube amps are really just for us guitar players. It's like playing the $200 pawn shop specials for years, then going all in and buying your first US Strat, or Gibby LP. It's hard to go back after that. 

And just to show you that we are all in the same sport, and it takes all of us to progress and learn from each other. You are more than welcome to borrow my Randall RM50 for a few weeks, just to compare and A/B with your amp. It might not be too practical because it would have to be shipped, but hey, the offer stands. If you can learn something from it, it was well worth it.  :toast:

[lreese]

 I just have no interest in owning a better amp because I’m afraid that I’ll become spoiled!

Exactly why I have resisted the vintage guitar rabbithole.

I have 2 Fenders from 1975 - That's as old as I have.  One was the one I learned on.  The other I think everyone has seen.

Vintage amp - Too late for that.  Those are far less expensive.  I've always thought the amp/processing was more important anyways.

Anyways, I thought the trend was towards smaller or no amps on stage.    The only reason I have a modeler now is that I need silent tinker time.

[Demanic]

"I have a Spider Valve HDII. Modeling pre-amp, tube power section. It seems to do what I want it to. "
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhgDdXI0nTw
Both guitar tracks were done with the Line 6 head. One was recorded with the line out direct into my zoom H4. The other one is the one you are hearing live. I also recorded the bass track direct in. The drum track I found on You Tube.
It's not the most polished thing...

[karpathion]

"I have a Spider Valve HDII. Modeling pre-amp, tube power section. It seems to do what I want it to. "
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhgDdXI0nTw
Both guitar tracks were done with the Line 6 head.  One was recorded with the line out direct into my zoom H4. The other one is the one you are hearing live.  I also recorded the bass track direct in.  The drum track I found on You Tube.
It's not the most polished thing...

I've played with those a good bit. Great amps, if you ask me. I was excited to see that Bogner, designed the power section on those, and it did not disappoint. One of the guys in Dequello, George, still uses one. With his 2, 4x12s hooked that head, you can't outpower him. He'll drown you out every time.

[lreese]

Now, ain't this a sexy beast?  Sexier than a modeler (+ no ribbon cables like on the MarkV).  

Moving this is like a moving a chunk of lead.  I'm betting 80 pounds - 85+ with a proper EV speaker.  Its only a couple inches taller than a Princeton Reverb once you have the casters off.

[lreese]

Tonight....

Or would a Plexi or Recto be the flavor of the night?

[lreese]

Ok...  Ok...  In one of those "Got plenty to do, but don't want to do it moods..."  So, this is my idea of a new setup I might pickup.