Honestly, this thread is a stupid comparison.
Helix - $1600 - includes everything you need
AXIII $2000 PLUS $150 for expression pedal PLUS $700 for the FC-12
For $2850 vs $1600, that AXIII should absolutely sound better.
It's like comparing a Ford Mustang V6 to a Ford Mustang Cobra. They will both get you from A to B, but one is more in price due to better components under the hood. And by the way, no other listeners besides guitarists will be able to tell the difference.