HX Stomp : Load Preset but Change only Amp Block/Model via midi?

[nrkorsakov]

Hi! 

 

I was wondering if there is a way to load a preset on the HX Stomp and then change just the amp-block model via midi?

 

Basically like a virtual amp switcher, so you could try different amps with without changing the rest of the preset?

 

I'd like to load a preset, but then have some external midi buttons to change amp models, like audition a Fender, Matchless, Marshall, etc. to see which I like best with the rest of the preset.

 

I was going to build an Arduino-type midi controller that has 6 buttons on it and assign them them to my six favorite amps models, then load a multi-block preset and hit the different buttons to audition the different amp models?

 

Thanks!

[silverhead]

You can use Snapshots to do this, but amps are DSP intensive and you likely won’t be able to have more than two on the same preset.

 

But no, you can’t directly change amp models using midi.

[Schmalle]

There is no documented MIDI way to achieve what you asked for.

 

But with HX Edit you can change amp models remotely so there must be a way - be it MIDI (sysex?) or some other protocol.

 

Good luck!

[datacommando]

On 12/12/2024 at 4:28 PM, nrkorsakov said:

Hi! 

 

I was wondering if there is a way to load a preset on the HX Stomp and then change just the amp-block model via midi?

 

Basically like a virtual amp switcher, so you could try different amps with without changing the rest of the preset?

 

I'd like to load a preset, but then have some external midi buttons to change amp models, like audition a Fender, Matchless, Marshall, etc. to see which I like best with the rest of the preset.

 

I was going to build an Arduino-type midi controller that has 6 buttons on it and assign them them to my six favorite amps models, then load a multi-block preset and hit the different buttons to audition the different amp models?

 

Thanks!

Hi,

 

You may be over thinking this. Or, even looking down the wrong end of the telescope.

 

What I would recommend you should do is create a preset with a basic amp and cab including any of the fx you wish to use to work with. Name and save the preset into a spare slot. Now duplicate that preset into several consecutive slots. Go back and change the amp/cab model to whatever you require in each of the duplicate presets and name them to suit - eg: Fender, Vox, Marshall, JC120, Matchless, etc. Next set your HX Stomp into Preset mode and use FS1 & FS2 to scroll up and down between your customised presets to audition the same effects, but using different amp cab setups. No MIDI needed. Also note that different amps can respond very differently to the same effects, especially overdrive and distortion blocks, which is one of the main reasons there are so many variations available.

 

It seems you are trying to find a solution to a non existent problem. Your HX Stomp already is a “virtual amp switcher”.

 

Hope this helps /makes sense.

[nrkorsakov]

Yeah thank!

 

That would be another cool way to do it.

 

My idea was a small hardware controller that could switch amp models, and have maybe 6 dedicated amp knobs, which is way more than I need as I never use the high-gain amps or that kind of thing.

 

If the specific amp didn't for instance have a mids control, the knob wouldn't do anything.

 

But I like that more than using the Stomp's LCD screen, which I know is terrific but LCD-screens still drive me a little nuts.

[datacommando]

On 12/12/2024 at 9:03 PM, nrkorsakov said:

My idea was a small hardware controller that could switch amp models

Hi, again,

 

As you seem determined to build some sort of MIDI control unit, then go ahead and do it, but be aware of the limitations of MIDI implementation on HX Stomp hardware. There is simple Preset and Snapshot Recall, Block Bypass, Parameter Control, Tempo Sync via MIDI, plus MIDI CC. There is no facility to use SysEx. 
 

You can find a full list of MIDI Controls here:

 

https://helixhelp.com/tips-and-guides/universal/midi

Your HX Stomp is a small self contained controller, to which many users are known to have added external MIDI controller boxes, such as the Morningstar MC6 (that have external foot switches rather than knobs), but the fact remains there is no way to change/swap out (via MIDI) any FX, Amps, Cabs, etc., within a signal path. You can do lots of this stuff using Snapshots, but the Amp or Effect you wish to change must already be in the loaded signal path.

 

You might want to have a read through the HX Stomp 3.80 Owner’s Manual for more information on what is, and isn’t, feasible with your device. If not, plug in your soldering station and let us all know when you’ve cracked it.

 

https://line6.com/data/6/0a00051afdda673cccdb61c9c/application/pdf/HX Stomp 3.80 Owner's Manual - English .pdf

 

Hope this helps/makes sense.

Good luck.