Fender Tone Master Pro Part Review | Maybe it's not what you thought? | is the HeadRush Core better?
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- čas přidán 14. 07. 2024
- Fender's Tone Master Pro is here and buying it right now might be an eye opener for some. Is this £1650 unit really ready for sale? Find out in this no holds barred part review.
0:00 Start
0:20 Unboxing
1:14 Internal Quality
2:38 Main Board
3:55 Internal Battery
4:22 Main Processor Board
6:03 I/O Board
8:17 Internal Power Supply
8:57 First Turn on
10:06 Firmware Update
10:53 The Rear I/O
11:33 No Manuals, No Specs
15:06 General View So Far
19:02 Top Controls Overview
19:20 7" Touch Screen
20:23 More Controls
21:00 Presets and Lists
22:31 Firmware 10/8/23
22:51 Global Presets
23:16 Screen Jump?
24:15 On-screen Effects
24:50 The Mixer
25:19 Signal Routing
26:14 Physical Effect Control
27:08 A Looper?
27:55 Control Buttons
28:14 Foot Switch Mode
29:30 Non-Graphic Graphic
30:19 General Rant...
37:31 Help Each Other
Links:
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I bought the Fender Tone Master Pro to create a thorough review inside and out of the unit with playing so that potential customers could get a really good idea about the reality of the Tone Master Pro without any sales hype. I guess I have not quite achieved my goal, but not really as I would have liked it to be. And yes there IS a rant in this video about the unit.
Andrew of @ Digital Guitars UK - (Digital-Guitars) did create a nice ambient piece of audio here: • UK Ambient Guitar - Cr... that you might want to listen to and it shows the unit can sound OK as in that ambient piece he created... nice one Andrew. But for my audio that will have to wait I'm afraid.
The Fender Tone Master Pro looks good in the sales videos, but I noticed that there was not really that much real information or close up detail as much as I would have liked. Still, it sounded good on those 'reviews' so after buying the Headrush CORE and reviewing that (link above and you SHOULD watch it) I bit the bullet and bought the Fender Tone Master Pro for £1650.00. I did want to buy this from Fair Deal Music ( www.fairdealmusic.co.uk ) but when I checked they could not advise a delivery date, sadly... but by now they might have some and at a better price than I paid. Ask Gary for a price...
So after a quick look at the Fender Tone Master and checking some of the tones, I decided to create a review that showed some of the features of the Fender Tone Master Pro and some of the similarities to the Headrush CORE because of a number those similar aspects (and the HR Core is less than half the price of the Fender unit). But this review turned out not so good because of some aspects of my purchase from Fender. Watch the video to find out more.
While I do show you lots of things that others don't (that's for sure) there was so limited information available from Fender to the likes of me (a paying customer) - no manual, no specifications etc.) that this review I decided to curtail early and come back when Fender can get their act together and actually supply a manual and full specifications... if that's even possible from what I saw. And that's sad.
The Fender Tone Master Pro effects pedal really in my opinion is a product released for the Christmas period, but clearly not complete. With firmware updates surely imminent (maybe or not) and a single page fly sheet with no specifications why, you don't even know what you're buying.
This video is the review result as of 8th October 2023.
I'm sure that the unit will be updated, the manual released, and those specifications Fender skirted around will be released. So when they are, I'll come back to this Tone Master Pro and review it again.
I don't score the unit in this review as it might prove embarrassing to the makers. I will score it when they release the proper documentation and I re-visit this unit.
I started reviewing simulators with the Kemper Unit in 2011 and have seen very many since for reviews...
Visit my website: tonymckenzie.com for some great reviews not on CZcams.
This video is entirely financed and sponsored by me with my own money so it's important for you to subscribe and thumbs up, ring the bell and click ALL to see more of my videos. PLEASE do SUBSCRIBE to give my channel a boost and thank you for watching - I hope the video is enjoyable and gives a good overview as of the time of recording it on 10/8/2023.
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NOTE: When I reviewed this device on 8th October 2023 I could NOT find any proper USER MANUAL or proper TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS. Some have said 'they were there' but certainly I never did find them. But that was in truth only part of the issues I saw. There were firmware updates that I never did find proper information about, a 7" screen that was a smaller 7" screen than the Headrush CORE, touch screen issues of wrong things popping up, added 'amps' and other stuff that seemed strange and some gear that was certainly not represented as I wrote the review. I am not an idiot (just trust me on that) and if the Fender equipment reviewed here was worthy of a great review then I would have said so. If you're some kind of 'fan boy' or something similar, great, you love the unit. For the £1650.00 (that's probably $2100+) I felt that the unit was/is at the time not really ready for release and needed/needs further work to get it more competitive in this sector of equipment. It will no doubt improve, but hey £1650 for a part finished product is crazy, and I'm pretty sure that the money I paid them was NOT part finished but the real deal money that I had to earn. Remember all that won't you. Thanks for watching...
If you read the Quick Start insert, you would see a link for the manual. How did you miss this?
The manual has been on their website ever since the Oct 3 release. From the product page, you just click the support tab.
Just checked the support page and yes the manual is there in many languages including English!
All 75.8mb of it, happy reading, but it still won't fix this items issues.
Yeah like the other guys say, the manual is there. I downloaded it last week. You missed the point of marketing. Fender will release the profiling software just before Xmas. Also, bass amp presets. Then Fender will still be what everyone is talking about.
"There were firmware updates that I never did find proper information about", that was clearly on the site as well. Funny, tons of buyers have posted about updating their firmware and "finding out how" wasn't a problem for them, but, it all was a problem for you... You should update or re-do this video.
Sorry Tony. I ordered my tone master on 8th October and downloaded two days before the manual, the update instruction and the new firmware from the fender side. Thus, all is there and well explained
That’s ok. But there remains no user guide or tech specs. You might like that sort of thing but as a real review I HAD TO point out the things I saw. Nothing anyone says will change that… sadly. Thanks for watching.
@@tonymckenziecom You have a problem admitting when you are wrong. The manual was available. If you couldn't find it, that was YOUR problem. Other people found the manual.
Great honest review. Keep it up I appreciate your honesty and opinion on all this new tech coming out!
Thanks and thanks for watching... it will be reviewed again later when it improves a little... thanks.
Been looking forward to your review on this one, I knew it was coming!
I wish the device overall would have been better than my 'expectations' for a £1650 device, but sadly I do think its a 'work in progress'. I'll revisit in a second review when they catch up to the £1650 I paid for it. Thanks for watching.
Another top of the line review. Thank you Tony!
Thanks for watching...
Much appreciate this Tony. Well done!
Glad it was helpful! I WILL be revisiting it when I can... and thanks for watching.
So glad to have found your channel. You knowledge is a boon for a deep dive on equipment consideration. Hope more guitar enthusiasts find you, I'm sure they too will be well pleased with your attention to detail and honesty. Subbed when you reviewed the Headrush Prime, and have enjoyed much of your content. Thank You.
Thank you much appreciated too. And thanks for watching.
He couldnt even find the manual or spec.. this is literally the worst unprofessional review have seen.
Didnt even play the thing.
Tgis thing us build way better then the headrush. As more output routing option...blutooth...a better user interface..
Path to upgrade include micro sd...
It has a lot more dsp...
Im glad i dudnt watch this non sence before buying
@@Colosphonium if you bought this looking for a sterling review and didn't find one, don't be too upset. Others have shared the same thoughts.
Excellent video, as always.
I'll be revisiting this.... Thanks...
Great review, Tony. I almost bought one of these but decided, after all was said, I would end up using maybe one or two settings. After some deliberation, I finally decided to buy the UA Amp pedals - Dream and Woodrow. For my use I think I'm getting the (great) sound I wanted and ended up saving some change in my pocket. :) Thanks again.
The Dream is an exceptional pedal and I reviewed that earlier... Thanks.
This is what a review should be! Thanks!🎉 Tone master Pro is not ready to be sold
Maybe in a month (or two or three) or so it might be improved, so I will revisit it in due course, unless I sell it - the £1650 I paid is IMO currently too high... thanks for watching.
THIS Is the review on this thing that I’ve been waiting for.
I’ll know in a bit if it’s worth the price-tag.
Well the unit will be shown again once they basically get their act together... Thanks for watching and I hope the review does not disappoint. I raised many questions.
great review
Second part yet to come... with a bit of luck :) Thanks.
Great review!
Thanks for watching.
Thanks for this 🤘🤘🤘
No problem! and thanks for watching.
Great review. I'm a little concerned about the battery and how long has the battery life may have. I'm looking forward to the audio review. Thanks again for creating these videos as the other channel's seem very similier. Also thanks for the shout out. I created a Guitar Synth patch today on the Tone Master which sounded pretty good. All my best to you and the evil owl 👍👍🎶🎶🎶🎶🦉🦉
Why are you concerned? It's the same standard battery used in "many" devices, and they last about 10 years (it's just to keep the memory in place basically), and easily replaced.
@@FrankHarv Hello Frank probably leakage and age of the battery. Your correct these sort of battery's have been inside personal computers "Desktops" for a long time. Best wishes mate
The evil owl... hoot hoot :) - yes the battery should last a long time before changing so no worries there, it was just that I showed there IS one inside - I never saw that elsewhere mentioned. Yes the patch was very interesting really... and all the best - thanks for watching.
A lot of people underestimate or don't realize how much work it takes to create modeling software and UI software that works well.
I bought one because it has the modeling from the Fender amps. The Fender Tonemaster amps have gotten good reviews for their sound.
I still like cranking up small tube amps if I have the chance. I have a lot of them such as by Swart and Tungsten. 5 watters and Tweed Deluxe styles.
I first found good modeled sound with a Universal Audio Ox Box. A lot of people complained about its price. It sounds fantastic. I have much more expensive Martin guitars.
I do have to revisit this unit as it did prove hard to see what I wanted to show at the time... but as I say... 'I'll be back' :) and thanks for the rundown on your experience with the unit.... Thanks for watching too.
Tony, love your honest reviews from across the pond as they say. Having bought this I definitely see where you’re coming from. However, not sure where you’re looking but I was able to download a manual on 10/4/23 from Fender’s site. It’s 46 pages long. Still agree with all you’ve said and spending this much we deserve to know what processor is in the unit.
Yeah, it's interesting to see the gubbins of the unit, this is a useful review in that regard. But the manual was online several days before the product launched. Fender didn't make it very easy to find - you have to scroll to find it - but it's simply not true that the manual isn't or wasn't available. But like I said, other info here is useful.
Well I never found it on the 8th October 2023. And I did not find the technical specifications either. There is however, more to the review than just that. There were clearly things already in my mind from the Headrush review of their 'core' from just a week before and costing £750.00 instead of the £1650 for the Fender Tone Master Pro. The screen was smaller, the screen did not always trach right, the U/I was less usable than the core with less graphics on there and many other things where I did feel that the core was better value for money at that exact time. I did like the fender trim's on the switches which worked very well. But there were some other stuff that either seemed a bit of over kill (4 x loops) and other things that seemed not quite right. I did actually stop the review and conclude, because I really did feel that the equipment was really not quite ready for an in depth review as I wanted to create. Effectively I failed because it failed to convince me otherwise. But I WILL come back to the Fender Tone Master Pro and review it further when I am happy that there is good improvement and it's worthwhile doing so. I like Fender in general, but for £1650 I really did not feel that the unit was commensurate with that value in a very crowded market where competitive products worked better overall. Thanks for the post and for watching.
@@tonymckenziecom I definitely agree with all you’re saying. I have the Core and the TMP. I wholeheartedly agree with you that the Core is so much more less expensive and provides a lot more features. My hope is that Fender will continually develop the TMP if it indeed has eight cores as they say … I’m confused as to why they didn’t add profiling to this but maybe a future update because they certainly have the inputs/outputs and the “processing” to do so.
@@StuartNevilleBooks - correct, and even on Oct 3rd, when the main company page was up, Same As Many Items, the manual is right there by clicking the support tab. I guess Tony isn't used to that. And now claims "it never ever was there" and he's sticking by that.
Manual has been online. 🤷🏻
Might be... but I never found it on 8th October 2023 OR the tech specs. Read the posts where I talk about some of the ither things too... thanks for watching.
THANKS, TONY!
Any time and thanks for watching
You're back! 😀
Indeed! Thanks...
Tony I thank you for your awesome videos. You never fail to entertain, educate and impress with your knowledge and ability to convey important information. You're definitely one of the best out there. Thank you so much.
Thanks! I’ve been wanting to see what actually makes it tick.
I will be back to this unit... thanks.
The CPU is a Renesas RZ/G2H
Can you show me where that is stated by Fender? Would be useful... thanks
@@tonymckenziecom it’s not posted anywhere, it was found from analyzing the files in the firmware update.
You are totally right !
I did want the unit to be 'perfect' but I would not be telling the way it was for me if I showed this in a different light. Thanks for watching.
how was everyone able to find the manual except for you? orher than that good review
Well on 8th October I never found it. But even if I missed it, I'm still seeing no actual technical specifications and the other points of course remain... thanks for watching... appreciated.
My thoughts:
1. The manual is available online. Fender made the unit/interface intuitive and easy to use. Most people might not really need a manual. Most players know how to hook stuff up, and the user interface is very intuitive.
2. Fender is keeping the tech-specs a secret, because it's a bunch of cheap junk. They make the case out of metal, so you think it's a high-quality product. "made in China" says it all.
3. This thing is way overpriced.
4. It should come with a matching/dock-able expression pedal.
5. It's buggy. So I agree, it was probably rushed out the door in time for the holiday season.
6. I won't be buying it. Even if it was half price. I would be totally fine with a Boss GX-100. ( Which is a better product, for only $600 )
Ha I loved the 'cheap junk' comment and smiled. Its not made bad... look when made on a machine whether made in USA or China the result remains pretty similar. Would you call Fractal Audio Axe-FX II junk? the board last time I checked was 'made in China'! Look I never like to see 'made in China' myself either, but we can't escape it. Blame the west. It IS buggy and IMO was rushed for the Christmas period I felt too. The GX100 is a good pedal and I did review it as such. I like that one. Great points which is what I like to see in posts, and thanks for watching.
link to manual, please?
@@erikatzen9216 Here you go: www.fmicassets.com/Damroot/Original/10018/OM_2274900000_Tone-Master-PRO_English.pdf
The helix cost as much on launch...and didnt even have that great screen... so 1699 isnt that overpriced. You have massive dsp... all the output you want. Solude construction.
2 exp pedal..midi... micro sd... build in blutooth.
You guy are totally ignoring most of the upgrade from other device. Its hilarious.
@@erikatzen9216 How about you google it and look for yourself mate.
Great demo Tony, hoping the Hotone Ampero stage II is on your radar?
Only just saw that the other day... and I will get to it. I looked at some of the earlier stuff they made and not bad really. It won't be tomorrow or anything like that, but I will locate one when I can and thanks for watching.
It s great. Sounds great.
Part two will appear when I get around to it... thanks for watching.
Fender have pretty much admitted that the unit was rushed to market in a comparison video done by Leon Todd where someone at Fender made a post, so you were absolutely spot on. So if Fender is only going to update every six months then it probably time to buy a Helix. They just did an update not long ago to fix a couple of problems but it needs more amps and bug fixes NOW. Like I have always said if there is no action by Christmas (4 days away) than it's time to buy a Helix. They just lost a sale :( Thanks for the video Tony can always count on you for a 'real' review.
Ha fancy that... I always knew it, and that secrecy of stuff was crazy. I will revisit this unit though as I said I would. :) I already own a Kemper Profiler and a Helix Rack :) - the two that I pretty much trust. However, I yesterday ordered a Kemper player (just released) and when that comes I'll be on it... thanks and thank you for the info about that darned Fender unit.
I'm still watching the video and hoping you will see my link to the manual very soon. There are a few Facebook groups that have Fender reps on them.
On 8th October I never found the manual - or either the proper technical specification. It might well be there now as I have not been back to check. There are many other things though that pull the Fender Tone Master Pro back a bit when I checked it and hopefully they will improve to where the £1650 cost is justified. Currently IMO it's not. BTW I don't use Facebook for anything and likely never will. I dumped WhatsApp when Zuckerburger bought it. Cantbetrusted.com! I will review the device again when there are some updates etc. and thanks for watching.
Manual is on that page. Scroll down to tone master series and then go to tone master pro. Thank you for the review.
On 8th October the manual was nowhere. And what about the full specs? Thanks for watching
@@tonymckenziecom Hardware is one thing..,software optimised and running well on hardware is another. At the end of the day, it’S the sounds that matter most.
In my opinion you can’t beat a tonex at the price it comes
In at. I have been using it recently since watching your videos and the sounds are really good. I also have a silver jubilee reissue and a triple rectifier. I couldn’t justify spending 1,500 plus on these type of units with the quality of the tonex. I’d rather have the tonex and invest into some valve amplifiers as toys buying 2nd hand. These companies have to cover costs of marketing and paying celebrities to use their gear. That’s my reasoning for the crazy price given the quality compared to tonex
Well Tonex has sold many. The two things I was not too happy with for Tonex, was firstly the software aggravation and no real support, and secondly, if the company went out of business what use would it REALLY be. But that could be applied to many companies in the simulated amp market. I think you're right re the 'get more for your money' approach and I certainly tend to be that way overall. Value matters... thanks for watching.
Great review. I always enjoy your straight non marketing opinions and reviews. Sad thing about this unit. Personally I feel that this unit is way over priced. Especially, with the Headrush core in the market.
Currently I agree with the HR being better value (in my case the CORE seemed particularly good value). Check my review of the core here: czcams.com/video/xfUbBmxhmKs/video.html and if you sort of compare the two you will see what I mean. I'll revisit the Fender later and hopefully see improvement. Thanks for watching.
Absolutely jaw dropping how bad fender have handled/rushed this. Sterling work Tony. If I was in charge of the UK honours list, I would give you an OBE for your service to real honest reviews.
THE amps included are embarresing for fender to me..shame on them..they are FENDER..where are all the unique older fenders? The 65 era amps are all pretty much same gain stages...fender is lazy..and asking 1700.00 hard pass
False. The manual was on the Fender page from day one, Oct 3rd release. Tony just failed to click the "support" tab. Not sterling work, LOL.
The manual WAS NOT there on the 8th when I made the video review and neither was the tech specs? So don’t assume anything. I did not find it it’s that simple.
I have had Fractal Audio, an Axe fx 2 and a AX8. The effects on these were top notch, but I was not real impressed with the amps other than for the metal which I don’t play. I have had a Kemper, which was great on the amps, but the routing was weak and the effects were not there.. I have had a helix, which had the very best form factor, but sonically was very inferior. I now have a Quad cortex. I can only speak for myself, but the quad, even with all of its delay issues on having plug-ins and now just finally getting the desktop editor has been the absolute best overall sound feel an experience for me. The effects are still not quite as good as fractal, but they are getting close. However, the amps and the overall user experience are phenomenal. It has a three dimensional sound and packs a tremendous amount of power between the two sharc DSPs.. I wish it had scribble strips and maybe a more colorful display, but I would not trade that for the ease-of-use and the incredible overall sound. Plus, you can run several amps lots of affects that you could never do with the Fender. A tremendous amount of the DSP power on the Fender is dedicated to seamless patch changes. That is a nice feature I agree, but not at the expense of being able to put more things in the signal chain. I will stay with my quad cortex for now. I absolutely love your reviews Tony and I think you do a brilliant job. Thank you for your hard work and your honesty, we appreciate it🙏😊
Great comment post. I have always thought that the complexity of devices 'slows' the sales volumes somewhat. There are many guys out there that 'might' buy x or brand y, but while sounds can be in there they sort of step back a little and end up with a different product, not always necessarily 'better' for the tones, but better as a user experience. Some makers I don't think quite get that point of view, but when I look at gear like simulator types of stuff, often those comments come flooding out and the then consensus is 'I'll stick with' brand X so to speak. Some guys LOVE complexity as a means to an end and that's OK of course too, but it seems to me that there are more and more devices coming out that are trying hard to reduce complexity and increase simplicity without affecting the tone. It really is an interesting subject as some of my original real job was sales/marketing etc. Personally I never did get to the Quad Cortex although asked many times. Why did I even look at the Fender Tone Master Pro? Well I guess it had the brand name and has the funding to ensure the device moves forward as it should at the cost involved. It probably will, but it IS a very competitive market, and I don't think for even one second that Quad Cortex price was reduced 'because of the chip pricing' as that in the area of business I am currently in would be hogwash! No, I think they dropped the price as they see the Fender unit as a close competitor. Personally I don't know about that, and even if the Fender unit was 'perfect' which would be 'better' is so subjective probably... I assume you think Quad Cortex... Thanks for this post - its great to hear how you have travelled through the quagmire of gear too and come out at the right part with something you really like - and let's face it, that's the whole point of buying the gear - it has to inspire you! Thanks for watching.
I saw another review, and the software didn’t work. Guy clicking on computer screen and either wrong thing came up or nothing came up. You are right. Definitely not ready for prime time. The features not even all there with first firmware installed.
That sounds like the firmware was not updated when he tried it? I had trouble until the firmware was addressed then the software worked. Thanks for watching.
I believe these copper shafts are called heat pipes. A very weird take on the cooler. Why not use a large stacked fin heat sink? Heat pipes are effective, but known to fail occasionally, as they contain a small amount of working fluid. It has to be possible to remove the cooler. Not just to know what CPU they used, but also to be able to change the thermal paste or pad, whichever they used, should they wear out and the unit starts overheating. These thermal compounds can be very sticky. I would put a lot of load on the CPU to heat it up and give it a couple of gentle twists. Thanks for the in-depth review, most reviewers can't be bothered with details anymore. Looking forward to part two!
Probably because the processor is capable of higher temperatures than just a heat sink. No info... sadly. The heat sink was really tight so I stopped with that. I come from IT originally since 81 but that one really was sticking on there... I really wanted that processor shown... but I'll come back to it for sure. I always like to see the overall quality etc. and many tell me that's important to them also. Well thanks for watching... appreciated.
@@tonymckenziecomI knew you'd be somewhat IT related. It has to come off eventually, unless they used indium solder as TIM, or any other exotic stuff, which I doubt but who knows. Indium solder can only be sheared off using a special tool. Indium has very high thermal conductivity, bonds well to ceramic CPU packages and doesn't suffer from degradation. It would be kinda cool on Fender's part, especially for such a relatively low TDP application. This CPU might be a screamer after all. Wouldn't be surprised if they went all in, despite rushing some other stuff. It is their first multi effect, after all. Guess they don't want it to be their last.
Fender doesn't want people to know what the processor is. Because it's probably a cheap piece of crap.
I’m not sold by any the touchscreen approaches, much less one that seems so wonky. Every review you see of this the user has to touch it a few times for it to do what the user intended. There are some nice UI choices besides that, but I think helix is still the better overall UI/control. Feels like fractal still has the best sound, particularly high gain. I was interested by this because I play mostly fender/vox cleans and overdrive (indie rock), if it was a lot less or comparable in sound quality to the fm3 I’d be tempted to have it as a fly gig option.
Agreed on the touch screen for sure. Oh the Helix is currently MUCH better - but they have been on it for years remember. I felt that irrespective of most things, the Fractal Audio Axe-FX II was far too emphasized on complexity... if they solved that it would IMO be undoubtedly an improvement. A piece of gear with great tones, lack of complexity and for a good price will always win out. Hope you find what you're looking for and thanks for watching.
I have been a Helix user for around 5 years, done hundreds of function gigs with it too. I am NOT a tech head at all but give me an amp and pedals and I know how to dial in the sound I want, the reason I got the Helix was down to portability. After 5 years I still struggle dialing in a good sound without either following videos on CZcams where the most minute tweaks make huge differences or downloading tones.
I bought the TMP and within an hour I had dialled in several tones I was happy with and was smiling from ear to ear.
The UI on this thing is incredible it's the most organic experience I've had in a digital unit and it sounds incredible.
I really invested in the Helix and it did the job for 5 years, but for ME the TMP just blows it out of the water.
did you consider checking the website for the manual? just like the printed quick start guide says to do?
Sadly I did and on 8th October it was nowhere in sight… neither were the tech specs…
Ive not been able to stop playing with it since i bought it. Its built like a tank definitely looks better than all the others in this price range and the GUI is leaps ahead of the competition. I don't even own anything fender other than this . And it sounds great in my opinion.
I will have a 'follow up' video on this device later... and thanks for watching and the post...
I bought one too and I love it.
Thank you for you very unique look at products, very informative and well done. Personally I would like a bit less repetition of the same focus, here e.g. the talk about the manual, as well as the somewhat arrogant attitude, but that is just style I guess. Please don't get me wrong, I really like your work! Is there any chance that you will be doing a thing on the Quad Cortex? That I would like to see for sure. Thanks again, and I will be going through some of your other videos. PS: I agree totally that this product is rushed to market. E.g: what happened to the bass amps??
Just FYI, I was frustrated that the manual I could not find (some say it was there but I never did find it on 8th October) or tech specs. But no problem, I am going to re-visit this unit and get further with it than where we got to. Most units are generally different and typically I think I raise the size and quality of manuals virtually in every review - but in most (all) I had one to show. Part 2 should show more and I agree that this review did not cover what I really wanted to at that time. Check some of the other stuff - it all goes back over most things to 2009 onwards and there are many reviews with 100,000 views etc. Thanks for watching.
What’s your take on the quality of amp models . How do they sound in comparison to say a Helix or Axe Fx ?
Well I'll be commenting on those in part 2 of this review when it has all settled a little and I have done some more research. But like many devices, it sounds OK to me - there are so many these days and after a while they tend to be sort of similar. I tend to find that the cleaner tones are near enough ALWATS better on most of these types of devices, but once you come to the distorted tones some can be harsh... this one is pretty much like many. Some guys might like the tones better than other devices, or other devices better than this one, its all subjective. I tend to like driven tones from most pieces of gear as they tend to indicate the gears position in the sector, but that comment might be irrelevant to others that play different styles of music. Thanks for watching.
thank you !! Looking forward to part 2 .
I like your in-depth reviews and always check them out when you make them for items I'm interested in and even items I'm not interested in. Keep up the good work.
Thank you for those nice comments. And thanks for watching.
Did it ever come out about what type of processor it is? DSP Sharcs or ARM multi process array?
Some have commented... but as I often say... I'll be back!' and will dig again... thanks.
I have Spark amp 40, it's a killer - for practicing. It's affordable. Fender copied evene their GUI of the Spark app. Fender should stick to making good Stratoasters.
Ouch ! :) Thanks for watching.
Misrepresenting the product is an overstatement. They didn't represent the product because there's no instructions. I do like the options that seem to be present on the back panel. I appreciated seeing the inner works of the machine. It's basically a computer. The cost is very high. I do agree that it was not ready for the public. Overall enjoy your reviews. At the end of the day does it sound good. Other reviews are not positive about it. No mind...I'll stick to my analog pedals and tube amps. Cheers
Well, it does have potential, but the problem is, (just in my opinion only) that the simulator market is fast moving and highly competitive and for the £1650 it costs it should (needs) to be better than where it is when I reviewed it on 8th October 2023. Hopefully they will pull it up to speed shorter term than longer term too and I'll be looking to look at it again later for a second check. Thanks for watching...
And they lowered the price to 1499 and in some shops 1399 , which leaves you hanging with 250 burnt
Ha that's always a situation. Over the years I have bought lots of gear, of course at sale time (especially when you need to review the item early) its full price - and here we are weeks later having to take the loss... over the years the cost will have been very high. But I did make 10M views recently :) Thanks for watching and that info...
Which shops
Usually it's not much effort to remove the heat sink and thermal paste, clean the surfaces and put new thermal paste on when reassembling, but it's a gamble here since we don't know what adhesive they used. At a breathtaking $2350CAD, the Tonemaster Pro is way overpriced as is the entire Tonemaster series, with limited warranties and built in obsolescence compared to older much more repairable analog solid state or tube amps. But people used to tossing overly expensive cell phones every two years won't notice.
I come from technology since 1981 and know this info, but thanks for that info as it helps many. I just did not want to throw away £1650 on a gamble. That heat sink really was on very tight so anyone out there beware of that JJ is right. Great points and the cellphone situation is, again, at those prices (as example Apple who also make things hard to repair) no-one seems to care. Well for my £1650 I do care. I did rate it somewhere placed near a Headrush Core... with the core being better currently. Thanks for watching...
Yeah... i'll stick with my helix.
The highlight of this product is the mechanical construction. Cast chassis (aluminum?) is a great decision. They designed this to be used on stage for years. Will the foot switches hold up that long? who knows.
The copper tubes coming off the processor are almost certainly heat pipes. They're filled with a liquid that evaporates at the processor and condenses at the other end of the pipe. Great way to get the heat out of the processor, across the pipe, and then down to the chassis. Using the entire chassis as a heat sink is very effective.
Neural DSP launched the Quad Cortex in a similar manner. Very rushed and incomplete. They released firmware updates over the next few years to address this and i think now the Quad Cortex is a very complete piece of gear. I think Fender looked at this and said "huh.. i guess people really will buy an incomplete product at launch." I'm not sure fender will get away with it.
Great comments and they add to the info. Thanks for watching too.
Footswitches use Hall effect (proximity) sensors. The switch mechanism is just a piston and a spring. At the bottom of the piston is a magnet. On the board below is a Hall Effect sensor for both footswitch press and for rotation. The sensor is not connected to the footswitch piston in any way. They should last for a really long time.
Your main gripe throughout the review "no user manual" available. However its been available on the Fender website since launch? Looked like you managed to use the unit well considering the lack of information, i guess its pretty straightforward which must be a plus, and I'm assuming like all technology releases Fender will release updates to help resolve any actual problems...fingers crossed anyway 🤞 if not it will fail...
Wrong. My main gripe is that I have a device for £1650.00 ($2100) that is semi complete... and as far as I can see it's launched in that way and even without technical specifications. I never found the manual on 8th October or ANY real tech specs... and let's not even bother with the 7" screen that's smaller than a device half the price, let's not talk about the multitude of amps that are 'not' in the unit, lets not talk about how the screen is sluggish, or not terribly graphic for most of the stuff, lets not pin down EXACTLY the looper time etc. etc. and you know what, scarily I have been looking at these sort of devices since 2011 and I was very disappointed in being provided a device that 'needs work' for my £1650.00. The manual I did not find so was it there when I looked, well you have your opinion and I have mine. BTW don't 'assume' ANYTHING, because if you do, when they don't do it you wont be as disappointed about this device as I am. I honestly do want this unit to succeed and I'm not against it really, but step back, think about a device on YOUR bench for review and ask yourself whether Tony's opinion was 'biased' or truthful as far as he could be? I will look at the unit again once I feel that it has 'moved on' from 8th October and create a second part to this review showing more and maybe even comparing it to the Headrush CORE (which I really had to because of a sort of similarity in part). Hope that this comment helps guys understand the facts rather than anecdotal guesswork by some... and thanks for watching.
To be honest a touch screen as no bearing on whether the device sounds good or not, even comparing it to a cheaper version that has a bigger touch screen doesn't mean this device is bad (bigger doesnt mean better), just different. I'm only interested in ease of use, its tone (sounds) and flexibility. Thank you as always for the great content hopefully you find some positives about the unit when you have had more time to review it, all the best 👍
I hope there are some additions etc. too. It's a well enough made unit - I did like all of that really compared to some other stuff out there, and I'm sure they will update... after all it is Fender... they have the ability to do it I'm sure. Thanks for the post too, it is always useful to read other opinions that make me think a little more about anything under review.
Any recent attempts to go over this again? Most reviews are 7-8 months old with a few videos on firmware updates.
Yes I will be doing the second part. I STILL can't get the processor off the heat sink... not a good onen methinks. So I'll be reviewing the rest as though I had done that... and moving on to other features, the software UG and a few examples. I'm on an FA FM3 currently so might be a few weeks but it IS coming up. Thanks for watching.
My concern is the amp models are the same in the GTX series of amps, you could save some money. I am actually looking at the Headrush Core.
This uses the technology from the Tone Master line of amps, not the GTX series
I WOULD look at the HR core. As supplied out of the box it seemed a better product (if I was comparing - and I had reviewed the core a week before) and that the Fender Tone Master Pro needed work - well it does and that was even an initial view not far from first looks. The core here was less than half price. The Fender might improve dramatically, or not. I can't say as assuming anything is generally folly, biut I will coma back to the Fender after a period of time and see if it has improved and made it worth the £1650 I paid. Thanks for watching.
I have a GTX100, have had their Mustang line since the V1. NO it's not the "same amp models", obviously "by name", Fender Twin, Marshall etc, but those are NAMES, not actual "same amp model" LOL. TOTALLY DIFFERENT firmware it runs on obviously, totally new modeling including the exact line for line code of all the Tone Master combo amps. 8 core ARM processor, vs. tiny processing in the GTX. "Same", no, not hardly...
I am going with the Headrush Core after looking at everything.
Thanks for saving me $1,600, what a bummer about this unit. As a non high gain user it would have been right in my wheelhouse. I guess I will re-visit in a year or so. How in the world did this thing sound so good on the Anderton's review. 🤔
Well I will revisit it (hopefully!) before that and see how it has improved. I expect it can... pretty easily really. But assuming anything has a way of not happening sometimes ;-) so I watch and wait a while. Thanks for watching.
@@tonymckenziecomUghhh, I went against my better judgement and decided to sell my kemper stage and pick up the Tone master pro. I have found a few good usable tones, but if told you that currently you can’t send midi changes out would you be shocked? The only thing that I can do is adjust the midi clock for temp changes to my H-90. Our benevolent fender overlords just give the same old “be patient” response and don’t dare ask about firmware release dates. I’m done with this not ready for prime time device.. Besides the manual not being available your review was spot on.
In defense of Tony... it's October 23, I'm not in the US, and couldn't find the manual on the Fender's site. I tried search ... and there were only firmware updates listed. And you know why? Because as product, the TM Pro is listed both under under Effects and Pedals among multieffects AND Guitar Amps/Contemporary DIgital. When you click the TM Pro to get its page, it's listed under Guitar Amplifiers - Contemporary Digital. And it's manual is not under Effects and Pedeals, but among amps. It is confusing at best.
From the user experience perspective, it's an utter failure, users should not be forced to be detectives to find a manual because the company is unsure whether to market it as an amp or a pedal.
That was EXACTLY what happened to me... I did not find it either. I did the firmware - as you say it was there, but no manual. Yes I heard many people 'calling me out' saying I was wrong, but I'm one as being a bit of a stickler for manuals - they are freatured on every simulators review I complete if there is one... and I print them out and show them in the reviews. I appreciate that you pointed this out - at one stage I really could not get my head around why it was not there... and that's really appreciated you posted this. Thanks for watching too.
Tony, I don't own this, I agree that's overpriced, BUT it comes with a folder showing the connections and it clearly says that the expanded manual is available for download at Fender's website. I just saw a picture of it.
It was not there at review time…
Do a Neural DSP Quad Cortex!
I won't spend the money twice.... :(
Does it have a manual?
I believe that it does now... but am I rushing to get it? Well not really... I will create a part two for this video, but I had Covid, and am pushed a little for time currently with work load. Thanks...
The manual has been on their website ever since the Oct 3 release. And you are ranting that it's not available? It has been right on the Fender page for the unit, click the support tab. You wrongly dogged the unit over this, and that's your fault.
I've been watching his reviews for years now.... And unlike most that are trying to sell you the unit he will shoot it straight to you. It claims to have 8 cores... That's interesting because all demos I see of it signal chain is limited. I've heard one really good high gain tone out of it. Jared at tone wars did awesome job.... But that's the only non digital sound ive heard from this thing yet. The screen will querk, hit the delay stomp and it turns your amp off n etc. Sure update can fix that... But like in this review most of our points are, at $1699 that's what we get?? Not so good 💯. If in a year Fender still support it maybe the improvement will be astronomical. As it sits it he a good unit for $500
@JamesFlorio I never saw that manual like I never saw the specs that seem to be vapourware. The 8 core processor remains anonymous but maybe they will now release specs of this thing. There are funnies on the screen for sure. When I get the info for a complete review I’ll be back with it of course. I’m not anti Fender as some seem to think. If it’s good I say so and thanks for that bit of support. I’m sure it will improve, but how many will dump it before the fixes? I’ll be one of them likely the cost is way out imo. Thanks James for watching too.
@@tonymckenziecom anytime I appreciate your reviews alot thank you for doing them! And I also agree with you about the Headrush Core I don't think peeps know how bang for buck or pound it is. Hopefully you can deep dive this fender unit soon and see what makes it tick... Have a blessed Sunday sir 🙏😎👊
It is hard to find. I found it by accident, actually.
Did you look at the Quick Start insert? It has a link for the manual. I don’t understand how you could possibly miss this.
you do understand that the price doesn't only include the the contents of the unit... you are paying for future development and firmware updates. Everyone wants updates on their product but nobody wants to pay for them...
Of course I understand that, and there are units at half the price with the same aims to create ongoing software, but not at 6 month intervals (which is so funny compared to all their competition... Thanks.
wow Ton l had black hair buy the time it woke up l had grey lol. no manual shocking would it be nice to get a few go out get a foot pedal plug it in and away you,,,,,,, not to mention the price all the best to you all OH Yes things have begun to get going here so pleased
Ah great news Allan, we'll call around some time soon to see you both.... regards and thanks for watching.
SHOW Top. Thanks
Thank you too!
A virtual Fender Bender!!!
Something needs bending :-) thanks for watching
I feel that they may have stepped in to the game a little late. It does seem to be a good product, but a little bit pricey for what you can get from some other brands.
I agree, and I think it was a little rushed to get in before Christmas. It IS expensive, and I have yet to see the value in that, maybe they will get it good presently and I'll be back to create a second review/overview. Thanks for watching.
Sadly, people have been conditioned to accept that stuff they buy is either a work in progress or it still belongs to the manufacturer. Few will complain about the lack of manuals and most will just hope that any bugs or quirks will be fixed in the future. In Victorian times (I'm not that old) stuff was made to a standard and worked perfectly. I bet that half the stuff never gets fixed or implemented. It is cheaper to fleece early buyers then bring out a new model that behaves as the first one should. Most creators use this method as idiots will defend them. They will put a case forward as to why the unit is worth it and you are defective if you disagree. That is years of conditioning at work. Keep up your tear-downs.
All boards are just computers so they have the capability of sounding the same as each other. Programming makes the difference so the price is set based on the brand. Best to stick with a seasoned brand that has a track record of regular updates and improvements. Leave the new stuff on the shelf for a few years. The price will go down to something sane.
A very good comment that sees much about the modelers, simulators etc. IMO. I don't 'mind' some of it and do own a Kemper (since January 2012), a Helix since launch (a very good device), and others. But they are not for me what makes me be inspired. It's why I still keep around 20 tube amps, I turn them on, and play! and you know what, not a single device of the simulator types creates what those tube amps do. I have heard people say things like 'tube amps are dead, get over it' and that sort of thing, but I read EVERY POST on my channel, and by far the majority of guys keep on citing tube amps etc. and confirming 'in their own opinion' that they have a similar outlook that you do - and as I tend to have also. But some suggest 'Tony's biased', I'm not of course, but it's an alternative view I guess. I also come from an era where when I buy something, it worked first go, had great support, and did not cost quite the crazy money (in real terms) that some of these simulators cost today. It's really the least I should expect for my £1650.00. Thanks for the post and for watching.
@@tonymckenziecom Every one is biased. It is whether your are fair and balanced. (You just tell it as you see it). The problem with modelers is that they are trying to emulate something perfectly. Normal people listen to music and don't care about the tech behind it. You get clean, crunch, heavy amps, etc and it passes. To sell a new device the marketing touts realness. I have asked people what does a certain amp sound like? There is no real answer as it depends on your guitar. Is it single coil or humbucker, are the tone controls set full or half way, which pickup is selected. They all change the sound drastically. So I can't see the point of 'real' simulations. The UI is what is going to win the game. The only thing I would change in your presentations is less apologies. We are here to get YOUR opinion and most like your style. No one else has the balls to take a spanner to brand new kit and poke around inside. I may not agree with everything you say but I respect your opinions and that makes for good viewing. That is another thing missing in modern times. Stay strong.
@tiomkinnyborg2289 A very kind response ;-) I have always thought that good is good and bad is less good... in todays disposable product mentality, money is often thrown around at gear that the user does not even know the first thing about. They always cite the tone of course being musicians. And often they then cite I'm a pro on the road etc. etc. but they have no interest whatsoever re the actual makeup of the equipment, the makers and longevity, the warranties, none of it. It reminds me of some of the greats... people like Hendrix et al, and signing up to record deals where they get little or nothing for the work... the 'musicians' head is on there right on, but the business guy does not exist in many of those cases. Its like that with the gear... so they don't 'care' what's inside? they don't care about warranty. they don't care about the quality etc. Well they do, but that's when it goes belly up on stage, or the maker that supplies the software goes bust and they are left with a shell, or... well add the points here as there are really so many. It's a weird business is retailing musical gear... the users are all playing an arena tonight, but in reality they 'might' at best be down the local pub, or even in the bedroom (and man I've done all that too). To me, not coming from those sectors or that sort of business' it's all standing out right there in front of me. The hype stinks and I can never really join that with the way that people sometimes are... it's really weird. A bit like the emperors new clothes. I can't reconciliate that way of buying something as being the norm somehow. So that's a point I will really never understand... probably because I am focused on quality, price and support - the three things in a sale that you can never have... quality and price = there's the box, quality and support = costs you more, price and support = see you tomorrow. Rarely could anyone get all three. Just some of my thinking and how I see things out there. Thanks....
My Boss GX 100 didn’t come with a manual either they are getting lazy and want you to go on the website and look for it
Don't do that.... you can see it in my review here: czcams.com/video/yeNSRYmm_rE/video.html thanks...
Expect Fender to orphan this unit in 4 - 5 years as they have with most of their Mustang modeling products. No support, no upgrades....same price as a Helix at 1/10th of the capabilities.
It's no Helix (I have a rack version but have had the other unit earlier). Thanks for the post and for watching.
Same software as the GTX100. For $1700.00 it better sound incredible.
I have a GTX100, have had their Mustang line since the V1. NO it's not the "same software", it's a similar user interface... TOTALLY DIFFERENT firmware it runs on obviously, totally new modeling including the exact line for line code of all the Tone Master combo amps. 8 core ARM processor, vs. tiny processing in the GTX. "Same software", no, not hardly...
It had… and that headrush for 1/2 the price was imo better value really. Regards…
It’s not the same at all…much better sounding models also…along with FX..
BTW, 2100 usd in Europe
Thanks... still too expensive currently! Thanks fore watching.
I think no manual even online at launch is awful. I know I think it's Boss has right in their software a link to the manual in the settings. Seems like Fender want the purchasers to be late beta testers. Looks like the best part of the screen is the tuner display.
@@dansomerville Well, still claiming that there's some awesome 8 core processor, but not even saying what model is lame. Most use SHARC, but some just use ARM stuff and Boss use their own proprietary processor. Why not list that or tout it somewhere?
@@dansomerville But where is it on Fender's site? I looked in the specs for the product it doesn't mention it, so where are people getting that from?
@@dansomerville Thanks, but again, where is that listed/from? Did someone else remove the heat sink to see this?
@@dansomerville No, not the part numbers, but just 8 core ARM processor or Analog Devices SHARC processor would be what I would look for. I'd think it being an 8 core when most are dual, triple or quad would be something Fender would talk about.
Many tell me it was there - I never found it on 8th October, so was I wrong? Maybe or not, but one thing is for sure, I ALWAYS spend much time with manuals and if I could not find it, how many others failed too? Ha one clown below says 'I'm not very bright' - that's not the way to be on MY channel. He won't be back. and now he's gone. Sincerely, I wanted to show inside the unit as I always do, and an '8 core processor' was interesting, sadly the cooler was tight on there so I stopped. But I will get to the bottom of that one way or another and show it all. That IS important and Fender say it's the most powerful? But is it? Some tell me its brand X or Brand Y... but of course while their mouths wag, no one shows it do they? That's one reason I try to. @Scott__C is right to question it below. In any case, when I have time to come back to the unit I will clarify all of that.... the screen BTW was not hyper bad, but I was a bit surprised that it was smaller than the Headrush Core... as more space on those screens for touch IMO makes them better and easier to use. Thanks...
I cant believe I had to wait 17 minutes to find out his main gripe... is that there isn't a manual. on a device that a baby could use. how do I get those 17 minutes back?
Simple - go and watch a paid for review where you'll spend up to an hour of nothing but promotion, then wonder how to get that back instead? Make no mistake, sponsored reviews will NEVER be anything except sponsored reviews. And you then will never see that gear ever used again... Thanks.
I hope the link works for you. :)
No time to go back currently but I will.
Well this is getting absolutely ripped on TGP 😂
I don't care for forums myself. Thanks for watching.
2032 battery just like what powers your Garmin bike computer, they last about 6-9 mnts , but do they expect you to open the unit and replace it ? for 1700 quid ....
:) it was there... what more can I say. Thanks for watching.
It's basically a Helix. It's ok reinventing your own products but not really that acceptable these days with the multi effects market overflowing with choices and at real price points. It all comes down to the price. In today's economy especially in the UK the cost of living will really affect the quantity of units that will be purchased. £1650, is mind boggling when people are losing their homes and can't afford to feed the family. Good luck Fender with the marketing of a very expensive toy. Personally I'm on the fence with multi effects units and the market that is saturated with the all singing all dancing technology that removes the mysteries of tone and finding your own sound.
You won't find the real pros mucking about in the studio with the likes of this tech. Give me a good valve combo anytime.🎸🇬🇧👍🤯
Well said
Hi Tony well Line 6 did it first so I'd probably go for a s/hand Helix if I was inclined but I still prefer to experiment with the old analogue tech personally
Funny you should say that; I was in a Nashville bar last week, and John Bohlinger from Premier Guitar was playing in a band. He was using a new Fender - '68 Custom Pro Reverb. It sounded the business. I ordered one that same afternoon, it’ll be here tomorrow. Listening to the live sound he got was enough. I’ll stick with my Boss GT1000 for demoing stuff into my Mac, but for live, it’s this amp and some pedals. 👍🎸
@@Liam_Doherty_UK hi Liam I couldn't quite stretch to combo but I liked the valve tremolo and reverb sounds of that combo so I bought the Fender Tre-Verb pedal. Needed a bit of dailing in but it's got its potential. Reverb is pretty good, tremolo is a bit more challenging to get right.
That's funny, it's basically a Helix. The main guy that worked at Helix now works for Fender. You pay for 4 years of R&D. Those engineers don't work for minimum wage. They came out with a great product. Many updates to come. Old Katanas are for landfill sites. Old Fenders are for collectors. 8 cores buys the TMP some time against obsolescence. Micro SD leaves the door open for sampling. Fender had to get the product out for the Xmas shopping season. You can't have a million units sitting on shelves for a year. You can string along people with updates for a time. Boss did okay with their flagship GT-1000, which had a lot of updates, significant updates. Fender's flagship TMP is a great platform and there will be significant updates.
That’s what I thought too. Crap.
Well... it probably can be improved and IMO should be. I will revisit it later maybe when they catch up to the price for what's provided. There were some good things on there, but it just needs some work I think. Thanks for watching.
I have had all of the units, not the Boss, and I actually sold my first Quad because it was terrible on the first release. I own one of these and a Quad and I havent spent a ton of time yet so I am not ready to make a full decision on which one I will keep.
I do love the fact that the Fender is a little bigger and has an IEC cable rather than a wall wart. Ill see how it pans out!
It's a valid point re the size of the company I agree... but if you could buy either from any dealer that offers 3 year warranty (some do) then that becomes a bit less important. For me I was surprised that they seem to be planning 6 month updates which does bother me compared to many out there in the same sectors. Thanks for watching.
Having worked in consumer electronic repairs all my life, now at 68 i am old enough to have seen
all the advancements in technolgy and all the mistakes that go with it.
Guitar related gear is just as prone to under developed products as any other, and this one from Fender is
another classic example of releasing a product that they hope to fix with firmware updates.
They do it all the time with smartphones that are not that smart.
All the reviews from channels that i trust and there are none that are as honest as Tony are all saying the same
thing, compared to the competition Fender has a lot of fixing to do, including writing a user manual!
If you have bought one of these then you have my sympathy, if you have ordered one, cancel the order.
Merry Christmas.
You hit the nail on the head with that post I agree. I really expected the unit to be world class from Fender but so far it was disappointing for the very reasons of not really market ready. Great post and thanks for watching too....
I had to hold myself back at times and hope i havn't stood on too many feet with my post.
How a company like Fender can even think of releasing a product that clearly is not ready
to me smacks of greed just to grab some pre-Christmas sales, shame on you Fender.
We can only wait and see if they ever release new firmware to cure some of the issues.
To put it crudely, you can't polish a t*rd!@@tonymckenziecom
"including writing a user manual!" - it's been there since the page went live on Oct 3, as is fairly standard you just click the "support" tab. Several buyers have also confirmed that, in comments here.
Ok i may have got that part wrong, but Tony was unable to find it so i know who i believe.
See his pinned comments below.
One thing i have learned over the years is that buying a new product as soon as it is available
is not a good idea, these days i wait for the buyers with too much money to find out all the issues.
Fender might fix some of them, and then introduce new ones.
I have over 50 years of experience that tells me that technology will always have issues.@@FrankHarv
Releasing a product with potential issues that can be fixed in later software releases is industry standard, and has been for a decade or more. This is just how it’s done as the amount and level of QA to replicate real-world testing would ensure that products hit the market late and at much higher prices. Tony’s statement of “if it’s not ready, don’t bring it to market” shows a fundamental misunderstanding of how the industry works.
there is some wierd aliasing in the mid to highend in almost every model.Its a static type noise and is unpleasant. Its ike those kit cars built on vw bug bodies and frame...remember those...they looked cool but underneath it all they were junk.
Ouch... well I will be making a 'Part 2' later and taking a look at some of the sounds. Personally, I think its a bit weird how many refer to 'famous' sounds by certain musicians, but those guys actually used the real amps :). Thanks for watching and the post is appreciated too.
Should be called the FENDER UI MASTER PRO. Great UI concept but it does not work well in reality. It is buggy. Tone is boarderline poor IMHO. FM3 or FM9 is FAR better. Advantage of 10+ years of development behind the latter products. This is worth less then $500. Already being discounted. Fractal does not discount often...and I still had to wait a year to get my FM9. They are in demand. I do hope however Fractal learns from Fender on the UI front. They need to update that feature.
Agreed many of the more 'mature' products do have that advantage. I also noticed the discounts here to about £1450 or so in the UK, but that's common. I still felt that as I reviewed it, it was not worth the money. I don't really want to expand on Fractal Audio and their operations and cite all of that - I did investigate that to the nth degree at one time. Since then the chip market is VERY different, and no matter what ANY maker might claim, many chips are on allocation and have increased in price (not decreased as one Neural Networks claimed recently) thus shortages of products to this day. The idea of Fender and Headrush with touch screens IS a good idea, but then there's the processing power, the software development and much more to contend with. Simplicity will attract more customers, but when pulled back by complexity that effectively reduces the actual customer base in size. A mass market product for a fair price, simple to use and great tones would be a massive winner in my humble opinion. Good points and thanks for watching.
@@tonymckenziecom Agreed. I would not pay over $500 for this product- ever. I sold my FM9 and will wait until they update that horrid UI. I would love to see a smaller form factor, revamped and powerful FM6. Until then, I built a nice pedal board. I need to focus more on lessons and playing then all the electronic gadgets that never made a good player. SRV killed it with one amp and one old, dented, dead simple TubeScreemer pedal. Today, many have elaborate rigs but can't play. It's a bit ironic.
Wake up Tony. It’s 2023. Nothing comes with an owners manual anymore. Smart phones, tablets, game consoles, and hell, even Apple computers. Virtually nothing.
Moreover, a unit like a modeler that will likely have features, amp and effects models added quarterly (as confirmed by Fender), would render an included manual obsolete after the first firmware update.
The manual has been on their website ever since the Oct 3 release. Tony didn't bother to click the "support" tab on the company page for the unit.
Hey where’s the specs too? Oh Santa has them
It's kind of sad. Fender, my favorite guitar, my favorite amp. I guess at the end of the day, Leo is long gone, isn't he?
Well maybe they will improve the unit - I think over time they will, but I do think they need to be on this big time because competitors out there are many these days. Should have been made 10 years ago! Thanks for watching Jim... and warm regards...
Still can't beat a Princeton reverb and small pedalboard. 😂
Possibly right... well at least I don't think you'll beat it with this one... wait a moment, let me just check the manual... I'm going out a while and I may be some time... ;-) Thanks for watching.
Telling me what my gut along with research from non schill CZcams reviews said
It’s a toy and needs updated to compete.
Their time may come but the rule of thumb is fight the GAS…don’t purchase a new model. Wait it out a bit
Very true… wait for the stuff to get more. Expensive for what you get. Hopefully it will get better… thanks
OH AND ANOTHER THING NEURAL TOOK THEM 2 FRIKIN YEARS TO COME OUT WITH UPDATES FOR THAT PIECE OF DIGITAL CRAP. RETURNED MINE AFTER 2 HOURS PLAYING THAT QUAD CORTEX DIGITAL PIECE OF CRAP
agree..its still buggy 2 yrs later.
So I heard... I have never used one of those units myself but where software and development is concerned who knows what could happen. Imagine if ANY of these software based companies went bust and the device stops working because of the software... think maybe Tonex? In any event that does not happen with tube amps. Thanks.
Truly underwhelming experience after trying it out. The screen is buggy and the tones are just not there. It feels like it is still being worked on and should not have been released.
Very much what I thought on 8th October. I remain a bit skeptical, but I will come back and revisit this unit again and see exactly how or if it has improved. It's a lot of money for the results I saw. Thanks for watching.
I completely agree - I will have a personal review soon - it’s at that unfinished rush release stage - and the fan bois have amassed- but when the honeymoon phase ends… it will sit there - my is going back to bake in the oven for some very similar and some different reasons than Tony’s
Well I have to say you were very negative before you even turned it on. Are you going to tell me all the other modelers were perfect on their launch date. I think not. I’m not a Fender fan boy just so you know but I think it’s got a great chance to be one of the best in time.
You're right, it DID have issues at launch. But for £1600 (well over $2k in the UK) the money I paid had no faults or problems? Their promotions did NOT disclose a semi working device? This IS Fender we're talking about here right? For that money I EXPECT a perfect device. You see, once you discount the 'free unit' reviewers etc. you are left with VERY FEW genuine reviews of this product. Had it been great I would have said so. Sadly it was not great. I will look at this device again in June/July most likely and then we'll see how its changed... or not. I tend to like some of Fender gear, but whatever gear I look at (and BUY I might add) if there are issues my channel will ALWAYS disclose the findings.... you might appreciate that point if you were considering buying some of the gear I have reviewed that costs thousands and is less than perfect, but of course if you are purely a 'fan boy' that likes gear even if flawed and then dislikes channels for pointing that out well you might be less happy. The pedal might well improve, I hope it does. Thanks for watching.
20 second boot time is unacceptable for this price. 9:10
I was not that concerned about that, but wanted to show it. The less than perfect touch screen was clearly more important and I did show that. Thanks
@@tonymckenziecom20 second boot time is a P.I.A. FM9 took maybe 15 seconds and it was annoying. This modeler is also quit buggy, freezes up and yeah...the tone is just bad in many non-clean patches. Fizzy and Digital.
I'm not impressed. Think I'll stick with the Boss GX100 and Tonex pedal 😊.
Of the two you mentioned I like the GX100 better, but I also like the NUX Trident and the Headrush Core too... Thanks for watching...
first.. manual is on thr web site since oct 3... spec are in the box look carefully.
i think your missing the entire point.. .
this device is build for expansion.. and update every 6 months.
its the only modeller witb as much output loop.. a micro sd..
the spec are all in the box in tiny character behind the basic instruction sheet.
i have not needed any manual with this device.. even with complex scene or foot switch multi assign.. that is the whole point of the device being INTUITIVE.
as for being rush to the market.. i think its the complete opposite theybreally took their time.. and waited and they are the last to enter this pro market.
i appreciate your reviews.. but you seem to be either bias or miss the entire point.
as for the sound. iv been producing for 30 years and i have my studio.
i have the helix. i had the headrush and quad.
i also had over 20 tube amp.. wich i started to sell. i only keep the vintage one for values and nostalgia.
but so far... this device give meall the tonemaster series..
wich use 4 core arm processor.
this use 8... so you can add also pedal
you have about 100 amp..
they already added 10 amp.. and lots of stomb in the first update.. so i can only say bravo.
the amp are spot on especially the classic fender one.
my timbit.
i wouldnt go back to a quad or a helix.
with this device i can run one output to my studio mobitor... one in the console.
even one in the amp.
while being also plug USB... i have a onboard mixer...
its truly a wolrd class pro device.
I won't answer all of this as I have posted to others many of the points that are reflective of answers to them. However, when I personally bought this device, they never told me that I would only get half a pedal, with a manual in point A but not at point B, and they never told me that only at 6 months they 'might' do some updating, and of course the money I paid was not monopoly money, it was not anything but REAL money that I had to earn to pay them for a partially finished product. No sir, I'm not the guy that 'missed' it, I saw those issues first hand right off on the 8th October. The crazy secrecy over the processing makes me question that also because usually if you have something to hide, you will hide it. Thanks for watching and if you want to hear more of my opinion (probably not) read the responses and you will then have a wider view than just being a fanboy. If the product was good it was good, and if its bad then its bad... I have currently no real opinion either way except this video reflects what I received as a PAYING CUSTOMER... and the 'world class' of the unit might follow at some stage. To ignore the early on issues when I paid £1650.00 for a device that seemed little difference between a Headrush CORE and it would be folly. Thanks for watching and in reality I DO actually value your post and input because it offers an alternative viewpoint... and clearly you are happy with the device. Over time I might be, but my hunch is that I will sell it. Thanks.
So far a i know, the processeor is an 8 Core DSP Curicut. Who the manufactor is, i dont know. Perhaps Sharp?
HW is not more that interesting. Software make thinks happen.
Software without the hardware is useless...
I bet it's an ARM. Well, it doesn't matter if it does what you need it for.
Yes, it's an ARM; 8-Core, Single chip with a quad of Cortex-A57 and a quad of Cortex-A53
I have yest to see the main processor actually shown anywhere... I showed the others...
Most manuals are online these days
Indeed, having downloaded most since 2009 I never found this one on 8th October. Some say it was there... but hey ho, I'll have it for part 2. Thanks...
When you get out and gigging with it... you can do a real review.
Why do you think that 'gigging' is the only way someone can review a product? Thats a bit silly... so I guess you write off all those day one reviewers then. Thanks.
didn't plug a guitar in for the the entire video
The video was curtailed due to unavailable information at the time - but I DID play the pedal (I'm the ONE who bought it!) and I'll certainly be back as soon as I can with the rest of the review. Thanks for watching.
Definitely not worth the money they are asking when you can get cheaper more mature products that are even better that also have the ability to capture. But I had a quick look and found the manual within 1 minute... but I'd never waste my money on this.
On 8th October I could not find the manual or the tech specs... was the manual there? maybe, or not, but either way there are more issues than 'just' the manual if you watch the review. Thanks for watching.
Do you like any modeler at all?’ Not to criticize but you complain about anyone of your reviews…just asking or all of them are trash.,,
Clearly you don’t watch my reviews. I have made great comments about quite a few and own helix, temper, Roland and others and if they were not ‘liked’ as you put it, then I would not own them. BTW how many have you reviewed? Thanks
Idont know man. First time watcher, but the review seemed very biased. I don't use amp sims, ( i still use tube amps and rack gear), and probably ever wont unless I was a touring musician. Pretty sure this was made for a " grab and go" type player. None of this seems insanely possible go figure out, and I could care less about the tech specs, tech specs isn't whats going to make you a better guitar player. Your complaining about screen size?? C'mon man Im sure you've had worse days than that. Couldn't even dream of this type of technology in the 90's man. I'm sold on the amps and cabs, specially since i use an EVH. If i did ever have to buy one, this would be it.
Watch this review: czcams.com/video/C4WLh0vYaIs/video.html yeah... go on... then confirm to me that my reviews are useless. What it all comes down to is - give me something exciting to review and the result will be rather like that review I just linked. Its THAT simple. On technology in general, there is such a variance in the quality, components, tones and often lack of feel in simulators that finding them that are actually inspiring can be a chore especially when you are used to the real deal equipment. Many that use simulators are NOT always familiar with the real deal gear. Specs don't matter until your 'simulator' slows or fails to load x or y as not enough power, or something inside it fails at a gig, but of course YOU as you say 'could care less about the tech? That's rather silly if I may say so, because at £1650.00 ($2200) I think the specs DO matter... We each have our own opinions and mine are generally based on my experience with equipment since about 71. Thanks.
This is an overpriced, buggy, fizzy and digital sounding toy. It is already being discounted deeply at 20%+ off. It will be avail. on the used shelf at Guitar Center very soon. The LCD touchscreen is not very touch sensitive says many. Historically Fender will end support and updates for this quickly and move on to other products.
If it was sub $500 to be used as a back-up for mostly clean tones, then maybe. I would still buy a less expensive FM3, let alone the fat superiof FM9 (same retail price- if you can even get one. I watied 1 year but they are caught up on their waitlist- no more waitlist!)
Touch screen was not perfect for me either. Thanks for the post... and for watching.
@@tonymckenziecom Buggy and Fizzy is this Fender UI Master Pro. Nice UI concept but falls very flat in most areas. The price is also a bad joke. Anyone who pays over $500 is out of their mind. Many are already returning it. There will be a ton of them available used at GC soon.
Thanks again Tony for reviewing another overpriced rip off product. I can't believe that people are willing to pay that much given what is available from other companies at what I consider to be both a more realistic and reasonable cost.
I agree it IS expensive and the HR Core seemed better value for sure. Thanks for watching...
It's over for your product once grandpa pulls out the chopstick.
Grandpa here. Your channel is a total disgrace. Don't like things here, no problem, just don't come back toddler...
@@tonymckenziecom It was meant to be a funny comment Tony :(
Manual is online and contains all the information that you were too lazy to download…
Bad review with a lot of misinformation
Tony, you should read the manual before slagging on a product
I checked the manual at 8th October - either it or the Technical Specs were not there. However, before you harass the reviewer, maybe you should address the laggy screen (I said it), the inaccurate touch screen (I said it), the missing amps (I said it), the no technical specs (I said it) the high price of £1650 (I said it) the better Headrush CORE (I said it), and so on and so forth. It's so easy to criticize the reviewer... but its very sad that (likely) you did not criticize the so called reviewers that did not mention any of those things in their paid reviews as of day one release? Well where have you been. Thanks.