[Detailed explanation] Who is the Fractal VP4 Virtual Pedalboard recommended for? | Features, specifications, reviews, and comparison with competitors

Fractal's unique technology developed with Axe-Fx IIIA virtual pedal board that inherits the Cygnus modeling engine** and combines intuitive operability like an effect pedal with professional-level sound quality.

Fractal VP4

In this article, we will take a detailed look at VP4's specifications and features, user reviews, and comparisons with competing products.

"Which is better: Quad Cortex, Helix, or Kemper?"Those who are worried about"I want to have high-quality effects at my fingertips."For guitarists who think,Who is VP4 recommended for?We will thoroughly analyze the following.

Fractal VP4 Virtual Pedalboard | Specs

Basic information about Fractal VP4

Model	VP4
Brand	Fractal Audio Systems
Categories	Multi Effector
Number of Effects	More than 400 species 69 types of drives, 78 types of reverbs, 16 types of compressors, 128 types of delays
Use at the same time	Up to 4 blocks (effects arranged in series)
Preset Memory	104 species of
Input terminals	Stereo input/output (mono compatible) Digital input/output (S/PDIF) MIDI IN / OUT USB Type-C terminal (audio 2IN/2OUT & MIDI function) 2 x external expression pedal terminals
Size	254.0W x 66.0H x 160.3D mm
weight	Approximately 1.56 kg
others	Built-in tuner function Firmware update support Providing PC editor software "VP4-Edit"

Fractal VP4 Virtual Pedalboard | Features and Functions

Fractal's unique high-quality modeling technology

The effects in the VP4 are Fractal's flagshipAxe-Fx IIIIt is based on the algorithm ofThe best sound quality in the industryIt has been described as:

In particular,

These are installed,Dynamic expression and delicate spatial reverberationIt boasts quality that sets it apart from other digital multis, such as:

Intuitive operability (UI)

Equipped with a large color LCD display, you can check the current preset and effect status at a glance.

Equipped with four foot switches,

It also supports tap tempo and MIDI control, making it extremely practical for live performances.

Scene & Channel Function

Up to four channels, A/B/C/D, can be set to the four blocks within each preset.

You can smoothly switch between up to four sound creation patterns.

What sets Fractal apart

The VP4 is distinct from Fractal's other models in that it is an effects-only unit that does not have amp/cabi modeling.

The higher-end model, the Axe-Fx III, is rack-mounted and expensive, but it is the ultimate modeling processor that covers everything from amps and cabinets to effects, and allows for elaborate routing using multiple effects simultaneously.

On the other hand, the VP4 is a floor-standing unit that is easy to carry and set up, but it only has four effects and requires external amplifiers and other devices to be used.

"A product that follows in the footsteps of Fractal's previous product, the FX8."It is also introduced asResponding to the needs of those who already have their own amplifiers but want the best multi-effects.

It is also differentiated from the floor-standing modelers FM3 (3 foot switches) and FM9 (9 foot switches).

The FM3/9 are all-in-one models that include an amp and cabinet, and some people are torn between the FM3 and the VP4 because they are in a similar price range, but users have compared the two and concluded that "while the VP4 is smaller and has more footswitches, the FM3 has more inputs and outputs, is equipped with amp modeling, and can have a large number of effects that can be used simultaneously. In exchange, the VP4 is $3 cheaper than the FM300."

There are cases where users who already own FM9 or FM3 add VP4 to enhance effects or expand uses, so it's important to note that Fractal products complement each other.

Summary

Fractal VP4High quality effectsとSophisticated operability and flexibilityIt has all the features you need to replace an entire pedal board on its own.

On the other hand, if you need an amp model or want to use more than five effects at the same time, you will need to take additional measures, but if you can accept that, it is currentlyThe ultimate multi-effects sound experienceYou will get:

Fractal VP4 | Comparison with other competitors

Comparison with Kemper Profiler Stage

KemperProfiling the sound of an amplifier (analysis copy)It is a profiler known for its unique approach to

The Kemper Stage is a floor-standing unit that is well-known for creating amp sounds, but it is inferior to the Fractal in terms of the variety of built-in effects and detailed editing functions.

One discussion has pointed out that "if a simple traditional effects chain is enough, the Kemper is the easier choice, but if you want to create a complex signal chain, the Fractal is the better choice."

In fact, Kemper's effects are minimal and easy to operate, making them a good choice for players who are more focused on creating the sound of their amp and don't care too much about effects.

On the other hand, the VP4 does not have an amplifier, so by combining the Kemper and VP4, you can get the "Kemper's specialty amp sound + Fractal's high-quality effects."Luxury Hybrid Systemcan be built.

Both the Kemper Stage and the VP4 are expensive (the Kemper Stage is about 20 yen),If you want amp tone, go for Kemper. If you want effects, go for VP4.Since their roles are clearly different, the choice will depend on the user's purpose.

Comparison with Neural DSP Quad Cortex

Quad Cortex (QC) is a floor modeler from Neural DSP, which has been gaining popularity in recent years.Amp modeling and reamp capture (equipment sound copy function)This is an advanced product equipped with

QC isTouchscreen operationIt features modern usability, such as an intuitive UI and the ability to share a wide range of tones via the cloud, and has comprehensive all-round performance.

Although it doesn't have as many effects as Fractal, it covers the basics and can also load third-party IRs, making it versatile.

However, some users said,Fractal has better sound quality and variety of effects"There are also some opinions that say "

In fact, Fractal is highly regarded for the fact that effects and functions are added and improved through regular firmware updates, making it a platform that can be expected to continue to evolve in the long term.

The QC is nearly twice as expensive as the VP4, but it will be attractive to users who want everything in one device.

Key points to considerIt is,If you value ease of use and amp functionality, choose the QC. If you value quality and depth of effects, choose the VP4.This will be the direction we are heading in.

One opinion stated that "Fractal is superior in every aspect in terms of sound quality, but the ease and fun of using QC is hard to give up."

Fractal VP4 | Sound demo and review

Fractal VP4 | Reviews

Good reputation

Bad reputation

Summary | Who is Fractal VP4 for?

The Fractal VP4 is perfect for users who want the highest quality effects to be used in conjunction with their existing amps and other gear.

It's not a model that will appeal to a wide range of people, but there will definitely be some people for whom it will be a perfect fit.