The landscape of digital guitar processing has just shifted. Neural DSP has officially unveiled the Quad Cortex Mini, a powerhouse digital effects processor and amp modeller that packs the industry-leading muscle of the original Quad Cortex into a chassis over 50% smaller.
Retailing at £1,129.00, the Quad Cortex Mini aims to eliminate the “size vs. power” compromise that has long plagued touring musicians. By maintaining the full processing capabilities of its larger sibling, the Mini is positioned as the ultimate “fly-rig” solution for guitarists and bassists who refuse to settle for inferior tone while traveling light.
Uncompromised Power in a Pedalboard-Friendly Footprint
While the “Mini” moniker often implies a stripped-back version of a flagship product, Neural DSP has taken a different route. The Quad Cortex Mini is a fully-fledged, stage-ready rig. It delivers the full Quad Cortex experience, powered by the same unprecedented processing levels that made the original a studio and stage staple.
Key Hardware Highlights:
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Dimensions: A mere 22.8 x 11.8 x 6.5 cm.
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Weight: Only 1.5kg, making it perfect for carry-on luggage.
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Display: A stunning 7″ multi-touch display ensures that editing remains fast and intuitive, even on dark stages.
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Control: Four innovative rotary encoder footswitches allow for seamless switching between Presets, Scenes, and Stomps.
Seamless Integration with CorOS 4.0
The launch of the Mini coincides with the release of CorOS 4.0, a major firmware update that unifies the Neural ecosystem. Because the Mini runs the same software as the original unit, users can move presets, full backups, and workflows between devices with zero friction.
New Sonic Frontiers
CorOS 4.0 introduces several boutique-grade effects to the library:
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Nordic Concert Hall: A massive, cinematic reverb for atmospheric textures.
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Blossom: A swelling reverb designed for ambient pads and expressive swells.
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Studio Plate 70: A vintage-inspired plate reverb that sits perfectly in any mix.
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Phase Doctor: A vital utility for correcting phase alignment in multi-amp or stereo setups.
The Ultimate Studio & Touring Hub
Beyond its live capabilities, the Quad Cortex Mini is a professional-grade USB-C audio interface with 16 channels (8-in/8-out). This makes it a seamless addition to modern DAW workflows for recording and re-amping.
For the touring professional, the unit’s rugged anodized aluminium unibody and locking power connector ensure it can withstand the rigors of the road. It also supports Neural X plugin compatibility, allowing players to run their favorite Neural DSP plugins—like John Mayer X or Plini X—directly on the hardware.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
| Operating System | CorOS 4.0 (Full ecosystem integration) |
| I/O | USB-C Audio Interface (16 Channels) |
| Connectivity | Built-in Wi-Fi for Cloud Backups & Updates |
| Preloaded Content | 90+ Amps, 100+ Effects, 2,000+ Neural Captures |
| Signal Chain | 4 Parallel paths, up to 8 blocks per row |
| Build | Anodized Aluminium with Strengthened Glass |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the Quad Cortex Mini have less processing power than the original?
No. The Quad Cortex Mini delivers the same processing muscle and Neural Capture technology as the original unit. The primary difference is the physical footprint and the number of footswitches.
Can I use my existing Quad Cortex presets on the Mini?
Yes. Thanks to the shared CorOS architecture, presets and backups move seamlessly between the original Quad Cortex and the Mini without needing to rebuild your tones.
Is it compatible with Neural DSP plugins?
Yes, it supports Neural X, allowing you to load and run supported plugins such as Archetype: Plini X, Tim Henson X, and more.
Does it support Neural Capture?
Absolutely. It supports both V1 and V2 Neural Captures, allowing you to create or download ultra-accurate digital replicas of real-world amps, cabs, and pedals.
Conclusion
The Neural DSP Quad Cortex Mini is more than just a smaller box; it is a statement that professional, high-end tone no longer requires a massive footprint. Whether you are a session musician needing a reliable fly-rig, a studio engineer looking for a compact re-amping tool, or a hobbyist seeking the world’s best tones for your desktop, the Mini delivers the full “QC” experience without compromise.
Price & Availability
Available at Andertons, priced £1129
Available at Sweewater, priced $1399
Available at Thomann, priced €1299
More Information
#Neural DSP #Quad Cortex MiniÂ
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