The Neural DSP Nano Cortex is the compact version of the Quad Cortex, which hit like a bomb in 2020 and suddenly revolutionized the world of digital guitar modelling. The space-saving pedal from Finnish manufacturer Neural DSP is very much in the spirit of its predecessor and combines powerful modeling, extensive guitar and bass rigs in first-class studio quality, extensive connection options and naturally the groundbreaking Neural Capture technology for creating high-resolution images of existing amplifier setups in a pedalboard-friendly housing format.
In order to find the right sound at any time without getting lost in complex submenus and program settings, the Nano Cortex is particularly easy to operate. There are six controls on the front panel, which can be used to control the input gain, the 3-band equalizer or the output volume, while the Amount control determines the effect intensity. Although a display has not been implemented, the surrounding 'halo' LED rings provide an immediate overview of all set parameters, even on the darkest stages. The Nano Cortex's
Each
In order to be able to use the compact Neural DSP Nano Cortex in numerous application areas, there are a number of useful connection options on board. On a digital level, the Bluetooth interface should be mentioned first, which is used to connect to the Cortex app. The more classic connections include the 6.35 mm jack input and the two separate outputs in the same format, which can be used either for real stereo setups or to use the capture process. The EXP/MIDI connection for MIDI-capable devices and expression pedals is available for extended control options of the Nano Cortex, while the headphone connection with separate volume control is perfect for silent practice sessions. Another practical feature is the USB-C connection , which converts the Nano Cortex into an audio interface in no time at all and makes the first-class Cortex sounds available for professional direct recordings.