What are the Differences Between the Neural DSP Quad Cortex and The EVentide H90?
The Quad Cortex doubles as an amp profiler, like the Kemper
While both of these units are high-level multi-effects processor, the main difference is that the Quad Cortex doubles as an amp profiler and modeler, like the Kemper series. The H90 Harmonizer is purely an effects processor, and a combination of the H9000 (rack unit) and H9 single knob multi-effects pedal.
| Specification | Quad Cortex | Eventide H90 |
|---|---|---|
| Pedal Type | Multi-FX, Amp Modeling, Digital Amp Capture | Multi-FX |
| Circuit | Digital | Digital |
| Presets | 10 Setlists, 256 Presets per Setlist | 99 x Onboard Presets |
| Number of Effects | 70+ Effects | 62 Algorithms |
| Effects Types | 12 x Reverbs, 5 x Delays, 9 x Modulation, 7 x Pitch, 11 x Wah/Envelope | Reverb, Delay, Modulation, Pitch Shift, Distortion and more |
| Amp Modeling | 50+ Amps, Neural Capture Technology | N/A |
| Impulse Response | 1000+ IRs, Third-party IR support | N/A |
| Inputs | 2 x XLR-1/4" combo (instrument/mic), 2 x 1/4" (return 1/2) | 4 x 1/4" (L/mono,R) |
| Outputs | 2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4" TRS, 2 x 1/4" (send 1/2) | 4 x 1/4" (L/mono,R) |
| MIDI | In, Out/Thru, USB | N/A |
| USB | 1 x Type B | 1 x Type C |
| Headphones | 1 x 1/4" | N/A |
| Other I/O | 2 x 1/4" (expression 1/2), 1 x 1/4" (capture signal out) | 2 x 1/4" (expression) |
| Features | Wi-Fi (preset sharing, firmware updates), 2GHz Quad-Core SHARC Processors, 7" Multi-touch Display | Expression Control, True Bypass (Relay Mode, Switchable to Buffered), H90 Control Software |
| Software | Neural CNS Mobile app | H90 Control Software |
| Compatibility | Assuming Windows 10 or MacOS X 10 | MacOS X 10.13 or later, Windows 10 or later |
| Power Source | 12V DC power supply (included) | 12V DC power supply (included) |
Didn't think we'd find a picture of the H90 and Quad Cortex side by side. How 'bout that. Image via Geartopia
The Eventide H90 is a pure effects processor, and far more limited than the Quad Cortex. Image via Adam Webb
5 Most Notable Differences
- Presets and Effects: The Quad Cortex lets you bank 10 Setlists with 256 presets each and houses over 70 effects, while the H90 provides 99 onboard presets and 62 modeled effects.
- Amp Modeling and Impulse Response: The Quad Cortex a little over 50 amp models with digital amp capturing technology (let's you "capture" and store other physical amplifiers as digital models). It also supports over 1000 impulse responses (IRs) with third-party IR support. The H90 does not include amp modeling or support for IRs.
- Inputs and Outputs: The Quad Cortex has 2 x XLR-1/4" combo inputs for both instruments and microphones, along with a variety of output options. The H90 has 4 x 1/4" inputs and outputs.
- MIDI and Expression Control: Quad Cortex offers comprehensive MIDI I/O, including In, Out/Thru, and USB, as well as 2 x 1/4" expression pedal inputs. The H90 includes 2 x 1/4" expression pedal inputs for expression control.
- Display and Control Software: The Quad Cortex features a 7" touchscreen display and supports Wi-Fi for preset sharing and firmware updates. It also offers the Neural CNS mobile app for additional control. H90 can be controlled using the H90 Control software.
Summary of Differences
The H90 is a solid multi-effects pedal, but it doesn't even come close to the capabilities of the Quad Cortex. Even in the single category of effects processing, the Quad Cortex can do more than the H90.
Add in the amp modeling, IRs, and digital capturing, and you have a far more powerful tool and versatile device in the Quad Cortex.
Having said that, the H90 is almost half the price.
This means that if you're only looking for a solid effects processor, the Eventide H90 will save you a lot of money and will be a better value.
So before you pull the trigger on something like the Neural DSP Quad Cortex, make sure you're after amp capturing, amp modeling, and effects processing.
If you have questions, hit the comments section below.
Compare More Effects Processors
If you want to compare some pedals or multi-effects processors, you can search for them in our database and add them to the comparison bar at the bottom of this page. We don't have everything, but we have a lot and are adding more regularly.
We link to products on Sweetwater that help support our site and keep the lights on. If you click through our orange buttons, we might earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you all for your generous support over the years! ~ Bobby and Danielle
Our disclosure↬
Related Articles
Written by GC Editorial on Pedals & Price Guides
Written by Danielle Kittleberger on Pedals & Price Guides
Comment Policy: You're down to leave a comment? That's awesome. Keep in mind that comments are moderated and rel="nofollow" is in use. Please avoid any spammy keywords or a domain as your name, otherwise your comment will be deleted. Let's stay on topic, keep questions relevant and have a meaningful conversation. All the best.