The floor modeler market in 2026 is more exciting than ever: Line 6 has launched the next-gen Helix Stadium, Fractal Audio has updated its lineup with Mark II Turbo models, and Neural DSP released CorOS 4.0 plus a brand new Quad Cortex Mini. Each represents a different philosophy toward amp modeling.
Modelers have officially outsold traditional tube amps, and the question is no longer "should I go digital?" but "which modeler is right for me?"
Quick Comparison Table (February 2026)
| Feature | Line 6 Helix Stadium | Fractal FM3 Mk II Turbo | Neural DSP Quad Cortex |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,799 (Stadium) / $2,199 (XL) | $1,099 | $1,799 |
| Release | Shipping Feb 2026 | Current model | Updated w/ CorOS 4.0 |
| Amp Models | 100+ (HX + new Agoura amps) | 280+ (Ares) | 50+ models + Neural Captures V2 |
| Unique Feature | Showcase automation engine | Best amp modeling accuracy | Neural Capture (profile real amps) |
| Footswitches | 10 (Stadium) / 14 (XL) | 3 | 8 |
| Touchscreen | No (LCD displays) | No (LCD, larger in Mk II) | Yes (7" color) |
| USB Audio | 8x8 | 4x4 | 8x8 |
| Effects | 300+ effects | Most Fractal effects | 70+ effects |
| Community | Massive (CustomTone) | Large (AxeChange) | Growing (Cortex Cloud) |
| Weight | ~6.6 kg | 1.7 kg | 1.97 kg |
| Best For | Live performance, automation | Studio, compact rigs | Versatility, amp profiling |
Line 6 Helix Stadium: The Next-Gen Live Platform
The Helix Stadium (released late 2025, now shipping worldwide) replaces the original Helix as Line 6's flagship floor modeler. It brings dramatically improved amp modeling and the revolutionary Showcase automation engine.
What's New in Helix Stadium
- Showcase automation engine (firmware 1.2, Dec 2025) — control backing tracks (up to 8 stereo audio tracks), lighting cues, preset changes, looper functions, and external gear, all automated on a timeline. This is a game-changer for live performance.
- 7 new Agoura amp channels from 3 new amps
- Stadium XL ($2,199) — adds 4 FX loops and 4 drum pads
- Wi-Fi transfer — load songs and presets from the Helix Stadium app wirelessly
Strengths
- Best live workflow — snapshots, command center, Showcase automation, and 10-14 footswitches
- Most intuitive UI — the signal path is clear and easy to edit
- Massive community — thousands of free presets on CustomTone
- HX Edit software — excellent desktop editor
- Native plugin — use Helix tones in your DAW (separate purchase)
Explore our Line 6 Helix preset collection for professional metal and rock tones.
Note: The original Helix Floor is now available at a reduced price of $1,299 — excellent value if you don't need Showcase.
Fractal Audio FM3 Mk II Turbo: The Tone Purist's Choice
The FM3 offers arguably the most accurate amp modeling in the industry. Fractal's Ares modeling technology has been refined over 15+ years and is used by some of the world's top guitarists. At $1,099, the Mark II Turbo is now the most affordable entry into Fractal's ecosystem.
Strengths
- Best amp modeling accuracy — widely considered the gold standard
- 280+ amp models — the largest model library of any platform
- Compact size — 1.7 kg, fits on any pedalboard
- Regular free firmware updates — Fractal continuously improves amp models (FW 12+)
- Excellent high-gain tones — the reason metal players gravitate toward Fractal
- Mark II Turbo improvements — ~10% more DSP power, larger footswitch displays
Check out our FM3 presets — designed by professional metal producers for mix-ready tones.
Neural DSP Quad Cortex: The Modern Innovator
The Quad Cortex introduced Neural Capture — the ability to profile real amplifiers and pedals with remarkable accuracy. With CorOS 4.0 (January 2026) and the new Neural Capture V2 technology, Neural DSP has raised the bar even further.
What's New (2025-2026)
- CorOS 4.0 (January 2026) — major update with support for the new Quad Cortex Mini
- Neural Capture V2 (CorOS 3.3) — cloud-trained technology, described as "a generational leap in modelling technology"
- Quad Cortex Mini — announced at NAMM 2026, a more compact version (€1,299)
- Live Tuner in Gig View — expanded LED brightness and scene navigation
Strengths
- Neural Capture V2 — profile any real amp, pedal, or signal chain with improved accuracy
- Best user interface — 7" touchscreen is intuitive and fast
- Fastest setup time — dial in great tones in minutes
- Cortex Cloud — download community captures and presets
- Quad Cortex Mini option — compact alternative for smaller budgets/pedalboards
Browse our Quad Cortex captures and presets for professionally crafted tones.
Sound Quality Comparison: Who Wins?
In 2026, all three are remarkably close in sound quality. According to Sweetwater's comprehensive comparison, they all "sound near-indistinguishably incredible." However, subtle differences exist:
- Fractal FM3 edges ahead in amp accuracy — especially for high-gain tones where pick dynamics and harmonic response matter most
- Quad Cortex excels with Neural Capture V2 — cloud-trained captures are a significant leap in profiling accuracy
- Helix Stadium has improved dramatically with new Agoura amps, and its effects (especially modulation and delay) are class-leading
Decision Guide
| Your Priority | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Best amp tone accuracy | Fractal FM3 ($1,099) |
| Best live performance workflow | Helix Stadium ($1,799) |
| Live automation (backing tracks, lighting) | Helix Stadium XL ($2,199) |
| Profile real amps | Quad Cortex ($1,799) |
| Most user-friendly | Quad Cortex |
| Tightest budget | Fractal FM3 ($1,099) |
| Biggest amp model library | Fractal FM3 (280+) |
| Most footswitches | Helix Stadium XL (14) |
| Most compact | Fractal FM3 (1.7 kg) |
| Budget compact option | Quad Cortex Mini (€1,299) |
For a broader comparison including the Kemper Profiler, read our Axe-FX III vs Kemper vs Quad Cortex for Metal guide.
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
Which floor modeler sounds best for metal?
The Fractal FM3 is widely considered the best for high-gain tones due to its Ares modeling technology and 280+ amp models (including every major metal amp). The Quad Cortex is a close second, especially with Neural Capture V2's cloud-trained accuracy.
Can I use the FM3 for live gigs with only 3 footswitches?
Yes, but it requires using scenes and an expression pedal creatively. Many FM3 users add an external MIDI controller for more switches. The FM9 ($1,799) is a better live choice if you need more switches without external gear.
Is the Quad Cortex worth the same price as the Helix Stadium?
Both are $1,799, but for very different reasons. The Helix Stadium offers more footswitches, the Showcase automation engine, and a mature effects library. The Quad Cortex offers a touchscreen, Neural Capture profiling, and a more compact form factor. Choose based on whether you need automation/effects (Helix) or profiling/portability (QC).
What is the Quad Cortex Mini?
Announced at NAMM 2026, the Quad Cortex Mini is a more compact version of the Quad Cortex at €1,299. It runs the same CorOS 4.0 software and supports Neural Captures, making it an excellent option for players who want the QC experience in a smaller form factor.
Should I wait for the Line 6 Helix Stadium or buy the original Helix?
The Helix Stadium is now shipping worldwide (February 2026). If you can budget $1,799, it's the clear choice with its improved amps and Showcase engine. However, the original Helix Floor at a reduced $1,299 remains a capable unit if budget is tight.
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