Buying Guides / 28 December 2023

Neural DSP Quad Cortex Processor: Next Generation Amplifier & Effects Modelling

The Neural DSP Quad Cortex is a groundbreaking amp & effects processor that offers players a plethora of new options to shape their tone. Want to learn why this floor unit has taken the guitar world by storm? Read on to learn all you need to know about this fantastic piece of guitar wizardry. 

Shop Neural DSP Quad Cortex

Unparalleled power

Neural DSP Quad Cortex : Next Generation Effects Processor


At the heart of this modeller lies a Quad-Core SHARC processor with 2GHz of DSP power. What does this mean? How about the ability to operate up to four amplifier models and multiple effects simultaneously. This makes this floorboard unit perfect for creating layered, nuanced tones in the studio and on the stage.

Extensive presets for endless experimentation

Neural DSP Quad Cortex Screen

The advanced modelling technology within the Quad Cortex replicates the tones of amplifiers, cabinets, and effects with astonishing realism. Its extensive library of amps and effects means this effects unit has something to offer every player.

You can even create your own custom effects chains and design unique sounds for different genres and playing styles. Whether you’re looking for vintage cleans, modern crunch or anything in between, the Quad Cortex has all your tone bases covered.

Neural capture

Effects Processor Booting Up

The ‘Neural Capture’ is definitely one of the biggest selling points of the Quad Cortex. If you already have your preferred amp and effects set up, the Quad Cortex will let you capture your rig with ease – and in high fidelity too. 

The Quad Cortex identifies the sonic properties of your gear by channelling a series of noises through your rig. Once the Quad Cortex has replicated your sound, you can simply save your sound as a “Capture”. This “Capture” can then be inserted at any point in the Quad Cortex’s virtual signal chain. These “Capture” tones can even be shared online for others to use too.

Closeup of the Screen of the Effects Processor

The Quad Cortex is an absolute breeze to use – having a shallow learning curve that makes it simple to operate. The large, colour touch screen makes it easy to navigate through menus and adjust settings. The 7″ screen is large enough to display your entire signal chains without having to dive through submenus. Eleven lighted footswitches act as rotary knobs – twist them to modify drive, tone, or level on the fly.

Live performances

Neural DSP Effects Processor next to vinyl

The Neural DSP Quad Cortex comes with three main operation modes for live performance: Preset, Stomp, and Scene. Preset mode allows you to select one of eight presets per bank and cycle through them using the up and down stomp buttons. With a total of 32 banks available, the Quad Cortex has the capacity for 256 user presets that players can use.

Much like a typical pedalboard, Stomp mode assigns any element of the signal chain to its footswitches. Meanwhile, Scene mode has footswitch control settings of any amount of blocks within a rig itself. 

Share your sound

Neural DSP Quad Cortex Close up

The Neural DSP Quad Cortex comes equipped with WIFI functionality. This feature lets you perform wireless preset sharing, cloud backups and firmware updates – pretty nifty if you hate cables.

Speaking of which, you’ll want to sign up for a Neural DSP account and the Neural Impulse Response Library. Registering for both will let you gain access to one of the most coveted features of the Quad Cortex – the ability to download and share tone presets. Additionally, regular firmware updates provide users with additional tones and impulse responses to play around with. 

Incredible build quality

Neural DSP Quad Cortex : Next Generation Effects Processor

The Quad Cortex is built like a tank with its tough anodized aluminium unibody and stainless steel footswitches. This floor modeller has been machine-tested by Neural DSP over 100,000 times. The end result? You can rest assured that the Quad Cortex’s incredible build will stand the test of time. 

Shop Neural DSP Quad Cortex

Neural DSP’s guitar processor is undoubtedly a must-have for any serious guitar player. With its advanced modelling technology, extensive library, and build quality – this immaculate processor offers many new possibilities. Take your tone to the next level with the Neural DSP Quad Cortex.

Read more: Amp Modellers: Strymon Iridium vs Walrus Audio Mako Series ACS1


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