Updates see the debut of long-awaited elements: Neural DSP delivers on player desires with Nano Cortex overhaul
The Nano Cortex, a compact and affordable amp modeler from Neural DSP, has received a significant update, NanOS 2.1.0, that focuses on improving tap tempo controls and MIDI functionality. This update aims to enhance the device's usability, particularly for live performances and MIDI integration.
Tap Tempo Controls
The update introduces tap tempo controls to the Nano Cortex. On the device itself, activating tap tempo mode is achieved by holding Footswitch I, which then blinks at the current tempo. Pressing Footswitch I sets the tempo, and Footswitch II exits tap tempo mode. The Footswitch I LED flashes blue when receiving an incoming MIDI clock.
The Cortex Cloud app now includes a tempo menu with a tap pad, precise BPM entry, and options to select between global or preset-specific tempos. It also supports selecting external MIDI clock sources via USB MIDI or TRS MIDI.
MIDI Functionality
The Nano Cortex can now receive MIDI CC messages for various functions, including bypassing individual device slots, controlling the expression pedal position, tap tempo control, and tuner on/off switching. Additionally, MIDI Thru has been included in the update, forwarding MIDI messages received via the TRS MIDI input directly to the USB MIDI output, enhancing MIDI routing options.
Other Enhancements
The update also includes several other improvements and features. The IR Loader Bypass allows for independently bypassing the impulse response loader on a specific output channel. Users can now control the volume level of audio from a USB-connected device, mute the analog input for re-amping workflows, and mute analog outputs to avoid signal doubling when monitoring via DAW. Furthermore, when bypassing the device in 4-preset mode, the update ensures that reverb and delay trails continue.
These enhancements make the Nano Cortex a more powerful and gig-ready device, improving its competitive position in the market for smaller-sized amp modelers.
[1] IR Loader Bypass [3] Tap Tempo Controls [4] MIDI Functionality [5] Other Enhancements
- The Nano Cortex now offers tap tempo controls, allowing users to set and adjust the tempo directly on the device or through the Cortex Cloud app.
- The update has expanded the Nano Cortex's MIDI functionality, enabling it to receive MIDI CC messages for various functions, such as bypassing device slots, controlling pedal positions, and tuner on/off switching.
- With the introduction of the IR Loader Bypass, users can independently bypass the impulse response loader on a specific output channel, and the update also allows for controlling the volume level of audio from a USB-connected device.
- To enhance MIDI routing options, the Nano Cortex now includes MIDI Thru, forwarding MIDI messages received via the TRS MIDI input directly to the USB MIDI output.
- Other enhancements in the Nano Cortex's update include the ability to mute the analog input for re-amping workflows, mute analog outputs to avoid signal doubling when monitoring via DAW, and ensuring reverb and delay trails continue when bypassing the device in 4-preset mode. These updates make the Nano Cortex a more versatile and powerful device for live performances and studio work.
