Jim Root of Slipknot has recently ventured into the realm of amp modeling with the Neural DSP Quad Cortex, but it appears he’s not entirely convinced by its capabilities just yet.
As Slipknot celebrates their 25th anniversary this year, the band is on a tour commemorating this milestone, with UK dates scheduled for December. However, fans attending the arena shows might not see the Quad Cortex making an appearance on stage with Root.
In May, Root first revealed his use of the Quad Cortex, a significant move given his historical resistance to digital modeling. Now, in the latest edition of Total Guitar, he shares his candid thoughts about the experience so far. “Yeah, I kind of took the plunge against my own better judgment and have been using the Quad Cortex for some shows, which, you know, is somewhat sacrilegious,” he admits.
Root’s ambivalence is rooted in his belief that despite the advanced technology of digital modeling, it can’t quite replicate the authenticity of analog equipment. “I know I’ve told people I would never do that, but here I am, doing that! It’s been working really well, but I feel like something’s missing, so no matter how advanced the technology gets with digital, it’s still fatiguing to the ears because we’re analogue beings,” he explains.
This sense of dissatisfaction with digital models is not uncommon among musicians who have spent years perfecting their sound with traditional gear. Root’s apprehensions highlight the ongoing debate in the music industry about the fidelity and feel of digital versus analog equipment.
For Root, the Quad Cortex has primarily been used for its effects while he continues to rely on his beloved tube amps for the core of his sound. “I’ve been using the Quad Cortex just for its effects along with my heads for a few tours,” he says.
“But we’re talking about doing smaller, secret shows, and the thing with doing that is we’ve got to downsize. So, part of it came out of the necessity of trying to figure that out without losing the effects we use in the studio and making things translate live, which is hugely important.”
The need to adapt to different performance environments is a significant factor driving Root’s experimentation with the Quad Cortex. Smaller shows and intimate venues often necessitate a more compact setup without compromising on sound quality, which can be challenging with traditional gear.
Despite these adjustments, Root remains a “tube amp purist” at heart. His preference for his Orange amp heads underscores his commitment to the classic sound and feel that tube amps provide. His bandmate, Corey Taylor, has also shown a preference for traditional gear, having become an ambassador for Orange amps last September. This endorsement highlights the band’s ongoing loyalty to the brand and its equipment.
Root’s journey with the Quad Cortex reflects a broader trend among musicians who are navigating the balance between innovative digital tools and the timeless appeal of analog equipment. While digital modeling continues to evolve and offer new possibilities, the tactile experience and unique characteristics of analog gear still hold a special place in the hearts of many artists.
As Slipknot continues their tour and prepares for their upcoming UK dates, it remains to be seen how Root will integrate the Quad Cortex into his live setup. Whether or not he fully embraces the digital model, his dedication to achieving the best possible sound for Slipknot’s performances will undoubtedly drive his equipment choices.
In the end, Root’s experimentation with the Quad Cortex serves as a reminder of the ongoing evolution in the music industry and the challenges musicians face in balancing tradition with innovation. The search for the perfect sound continues, with each artist finding their own path through the ever-changing landscape of music technology.
