Line 6 HX Stomp VS Boss GT1000CORE (Comparison)
Our pick: The Line 6 HX Stomp
Outside of brand loyalty to Boss, we'd recommend the Line 6 HX Stomp primarily because it's $100 cheaper. Getting into tone quality and feature differences between the two would be splitting hairs, but Line 6 simply gives you better value.
As comparisons go, the Line 6 HX Stomp and Boss GT-1000CORE are extremely similar.
And we're assuming that you've reached this page because you want some advice to tip you one way or the other, perhaps if you've narrowed it down to these two multi-effects pedals.
But we can say up front this one could come down to pretty nuanced differences, as the two don't have a lot of differing features.
Both have a ton of effects and amp models, though one simple factor that could tilt your decision is the price tag.
The HX Stomp is cheaper.
For a quick look at both boxes, check the comparison tool below.
Line 6 HX Stomp VS Boss GT-1000CORE Comparison Tool
Pedal | Title | Rated | Browse |
|---|---|---|---|
| Line 6 HX Stomp | n/a | |
 | Boss GT-1000CORE | n/a |
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One simple difference we can note is that the HX Stomp has more effects, but less presets than the GT-1000CORE. From a tone quality standpoint, both multi-effects pedals are incredibly solid, and sound great whether you're using an amp or a direct line out.
Note that they both also support USB connections, making them an effective front-end recording devices for your computer.
Better value with the HX Stomp? We think so.
Line 6 HX Stomp Details
The Line 6 HX Stomp has more effects than the GT-1000CORE and is significantly cheaper. Image via Line 6
The HX Stomp has over 200 effects and around 126 presets, where the Boss GT-1000CORE is essentially the inverse of that. It also uses a similar control scheme with three bypass switches and knob controls that switch functionality depending on which effect or amp model you're working with.
As we've mentioned, the HX Stomp is also just cheaper, knocking a significant $120 off what it costs to pick up the 1000CORE.
It's also not super clear as to why the 1000CORE is more expensive.
The AIRD preamp likely has something to do with it.
But either way, I would personally go with the HX Stomp because it's cheaper and offers more effects. For most players, 126 presets is going to be more than enough.
Boss GT-1000CORE Details
While the GT-1000CORE does a lot, it doesn't significantly set itself apart from the HX Stomp, at least not enough to justify an extra $100. Image via Boss
Boss ups the preset count to 250 while dropping you to 140 effects/amp models, with the AIRD preamp we mentioned. You actually have two effects loops on the back of the pedal, which could be helpful for those wanting to add existing pedals to the signal chain. Though as an all-in-one solution, this isn't likely to make a huge difference for most potential buyers.
Otherwise, it's not dramatically different from the HX Stomp.
There are subtle differences in control, banking, and the way you navigate through save effects and presets, but it feels like largely the same pedal for a higher price tag.
Summary of Our Comparison
Because of that higher price tag, we'd have to recommend most folks go with the Line 6 HX Stomp, unless you have a high degree of brand loyalty to Boss and Roland.
We just don't see enough in the GT-1000CORE to justify the added expense, especially given that devices like the HX Stomp and original GT-1000 are already priced fairly high.
Save the money and go with the HX Stomp.
If you have questions about either device, feel free to jump into the comments section below and leave them there. I'll help out as much as possible.
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Written by Bobby on Pedals and Comparisons
Written by GC Editorial on Pedals and Comparisons
What are the power requirements compared to each other?
9V DC for both.
Which one is better for bass? As in which has more bass-specific options? I want to upgrade from my Boss GT1B, and although perhaps the GT might ‘feel’ more familiar, I’m not put off by having to learn how to use the HX.
There’s a lot in both. Here’s the HX Stomp list. Starts around page 19 but I would just search the doc for “bass” https://line6.com/data/6/0a020a4010c935bb66a4c0c44f/application/pdf/HX%20Stomp%20Manual%20-%20English%20.pdf
Though I should say, the Boss is a bit less clear about the bass models/effects included: https://static.roland.com/assets/media/pdf/GT-1000CORE_eng01_W.pdf
I’m more familiar with the HX Stomp so I’d probably go that route. But also keep in mind that with the software, you can do pretty much whatever you want.
The HX stomp has half the DSP of the GT1000 Core, I have had both and imo it’s just not a fair comparison. The GT1000 Core is far more powerful in terms of the number of amp and effects you can use at the same time. Wet/Dry, stereo amps, Dual mono etc. having twice the DSP opens up far more options, I love the helix but the stomp never worked for me.
Thanks for sharing your experience, Lee. Certainly helpful.
Hi Bobby, do you recommend to plug in the hx stomp to an amp or to something else?
Hey Carlos – for the review I did, I used an amp. Just a Boss Katana 50 with a clean signal and some basic EQ. But you don’t necessarily need one.
https://www.guitarchalk.com/hx-stomp-review/
Thank you for your honest reviews!
Thanks, Roderick. Hope it’s helpful.