Neural DSP shines on player demands by introducing fresh features in the latest Nano Cortex update
Neural DSP has released a free update (NanOS 2.1.0) for their popular Nano Cortex amp modeler, introducing tap tempo controls and several MIDI-related enhancements. This update aims to enhance the usability and performance of the pedal, making it more versatile for live performances and studio work.
Tap Tempo Functionality
The tap tempo feature is now unlocked on the Nano Cortex pedal when in Tap Tempo mode, with Footswitches I and II used for setting tempos and exiting the mode. On the pedal, enter Tap Tempo mode by holding Footswitch I. The LED on Footswitch I blinks at the current tempo. Set tempo by tapping Footswitch I and exit the mode by pressing Footswitch II.
On the Nano Cortex app (iOS/Android), users get a tap pad for tempo entry, precise BPM number input, and the ability to select between global or preset-specific tempos.
The update also supports external MIDI clock sources via USB MIDI or TRS MIDI input.
Incoming MIDI CC Messages
The Nano Cortex can now receive MIDI CC messages for bypassing individual device slots, controlling the expression pedal position, tap tempo, and engaging/disengaging the tuner.
IR Loader Bypass and MIDI Thru
The update introduces an IR Loader Bypass, allowing users to independently bypass the Impulse Response loader on a specific output. It also includes MIDI Thru, which forwards MIDI messages received at TRS MIDI input to USB MIDI output.
Additional Features
- USB Playback Volume control for audio from connected USB devices.
- Mute Input/Output options to manage analog signal monitoring, useful for re-amping and DAW workflows.
- Keep Reverb/Delay Trails active when bypassing in certain preset modes.
These additions enhance the Nano Cortex's live performance and studio functionality, making it more versatile and "gig-ready" by giving players better control over tempo and MIDI integration without compromising size or performance.
Competition in the Market
The latest update for the Nano Cortex amp modeler does not repeat the tap tempo feature but enhances its position in the market against other smaller-sized amp modelers. Mooer has added fresh competition with an AI-equipped modeler that can profile a player's gear, similar to the Nano Cortex. Notably, John Mayer, a diehard amp enthusiast, was spotted playing a Quad Cortex at Coachella.
[1] Neural DSP (202x). NanOS 2.1.0 Update for Nano Cortex Amp Modeler. [Press Release]
[2] Neural DSP (202x). Nano Cortex Amp Modeler: Tap Tempo and MIDI Enhancements. [Product Announcement]
[3] Guitar World (202x). Neural DSP Nano Cortex Amp Modeler Gets Tap Tempo and MIDI Upgrades. [News Article]
[4] Premier Guitar (202x). Neural DSP's Nano Cortex Amp Modeler Gets Tap Tempo and MIDI Upgrades. [News Article]
- The tap tempo feature on the Neural DSP Nano Cortex pedal allows for setting tempos using Footswitches I and II, enhancing its usability for live performances and studio work.
- With the update, the Nano Cortex app enables users to input precise tempos through a tap pad or BPM number input, and choose between global or preset-specific tempos, extending the versatility of the device.
- The update also supports external MIDI clock sources and allows the Nano Cortex to receive MIDI CC messages for controlling various functionalities like bypassing device slots, adjusting the expression pedal position, setting tap tempo, and engaging/disengaging the tuner.
- The Nano Cortex's latest update introduces an IR Loader Bypass and MIDI Thru, offering greater control over audio from connected USB devices, managing analog signal monitoring, and forwarding MIDI messages received at TRS MIDI input to USB MIDI output.
- The enhancements to the Nano Cortex's tap tempo and MIDI functionalities position it competitively in the market against other smaller-sized amp modelers, including the Mooer AI-equipped modeler that can profile a player's gear, while attracting attention from renowned musicians such as John Mayer, who was spotted playing a Quad Cortex at Coachella.
