Looks small. Plays big.
Quad Cortex mini delivers the full Quad Cortex experience in our most compact, usable format yet, without cutting corners.
It brings the same processing power, audio quality, Neural Capture technology, and 7” touchscreen in a footprint that fits effortlessly into pedalboards, modern rigs, or on your desktop.
Built for exceptional performance at its size and price, Quad Cortex mini makes it easy to dial in world-class sounds, explore a vast range of amps, effects, and Captures, and build rigs without creative limits wherever you play.
Whether you’re stepping into the Quad Cortex platform for the first time or already feel at home, Quad Cortex mini shares the same platform and workflow, making great sounds fast, intuitive, and deeply rewarding from the first note.
Full Quad Cortex processing power
Flagship performance in a compact format
Intuitive visual workflow
7-inch touchscreen with grid-based signal flow
Neural Capture technology
Create and play ultra-accurate digital replicas of real amps, cabs, drive pedals, and compressors
More than 50% smaller footprint
All the power of Quad Cortex, ready anywhere
Arena-level performance. Shelf-ready size.
A complete guitar and bass rig in a remarkably small footprint, designed to fit naturally into pedalboards, modern rigs, and desktop setups, from studio to stage and everywhere in between.
With a footprint of just 22.8 × 11.8 cm and a weight of 1.5 kg, Quad Cortex mini delivers flagship performance in a form that’s easy to place, easy to carry, and simple to integrate into existing rigs.
Dimensions
22.8 x 11.8 x 6.5 cm / 8.9” x 4.6” x 2.5”
Weight
1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs
A complete creative toolkit, ready to play
Quad Cortex mini comes loaded with a carefully curated collection of amps, effects, and cabinets, giving you everything you need to build inspiring guitar and bass rigs from the moment you plug in.
From vintage-inspired and modern amplifiers to studio-grade effects and flexible cabinet simulation, every virtual device is designed to respond naturally to your playing and work together seamlessly.
amp models spanning classic, modern, and contemporary designs
effects and utilities for building complete signal chains
cabinet IRs with flexible mic placement
Neural Capture
Capture real gear. Play it anywhere.
Neural Capture creates ultra-accurate digital models of real amps, cabinets, drive pedals, and compressors. Choose from thousands of Captures created by players and artists around the world, or effortlessly create your own.
Dynamics, touch, and feel are captured alongside tone, so what you play reacts the way you expect. Roll back your guitar volume. Dig in harder. The response stays musical and familiar.
The sounds you rely on stay with you, wherever you choose to play.
Quad Cortex mini comes preloaded with over 2000 high-quality factory Neural Captures, so you can start playing inspiring, studio-ready sounds immediately.
Fast, efficient, and fully offline. Neural Capture V1 runs directly on the device and delivers accurate results for most amps, cabinets, and overdrive pedals. It’s ideal for everyday use, transparent gain stages, and building complex Presets without worrying about processing overhead.
Neural Capture V2 uses Cortex Cloud to process Captures with a higher-resolution algorithm, delivering increased accuracy for touch-sensitive gear such as fuzzes, compressors, and highly dynamic tube amps. It captures subtle behaviors like volume-knob cleanup, amp sag and bloom, fast transients, and blend controls with exceptional precision.
Cortex Cloud
An ever-growing world of tones
Cortex Cloud connects Quad Cortex mini to a constantly expanding library of Neural Captures and Presets created by artists and players around the world.
Discover new amps, cabinets, and pedals captured by others, and bring them straight into your own rigs. Sounds load quickly and integrate seamlessly, so inspiration never feels interrupted.
Share your own Neural Captures, explore new ideas, and keep your sound evolving over time.
The Grid
See your entire rig at a glance.
The Grid is the visual workspace at the heart of Quad Cortex mini. It makes building, understanding, and modifying signal chains intuitive, with no menu diving or hidden layers
Create rigs by placing virtual device blocks across a clear, grid-based signal flow. Rearrange blocks freely, split signals into parallel paths, and route any part of your chain to different outputs with precision and confidence.
Complex setups stay readable. Simple ideas stay simple. Everything is exactly where you expect it to be.
Designed for fast, intuitive control
Touchscreen and rotary footswitches
A 7” multi-touch display paired with four stainless steel rotary footswitches gives you responsive, tactile control at your fingertips and under your feet, whether you’re editing sounds or performing.
Parameter Focus System
When a block is selected, the rotary footswitches automatically map to the most relevant parameters. This makes it easy to dial in sounds by ear, adjust settings quickly, and stay focused on playing instead of navigating menus.
Flexible switching modes
Choose the control style that fits how you play:
Preset mode for switching between complete rigs
Scene mode for seamless changes within a single Preset
Stomp mode for pedalboard-style control
Hybrid mode for combining modes across footswitch rows
Gig View
A high-contrast, performance-ready layout with large text and clear visual feedback. Opposite Page Preview shows assignments from the other Page at a glance, so you’re never guessing mid-song.
Inputs & Outputs
Simple connections. Flexible setups.
- INPUT 2/CAPTURE INPUT
Combo XLR and 1/4" TRS input with dedicated level control and phantom power. Plug your instrument or microphone here. This input is also used for creating Neural Captures. - INPUT 1
1/4" TS input for plugging in your instrument. - DUAL EFFECTS LOOPS
SEND 1/2 and RETURN 1/2 each use a shared 1/4" TRS. Use a standard TRS cable for Loop 1, or a TRS insert cable (TRS to dual TS) to access both FX Loops.
- EXPRESSION INPUT
1/4" TRS input for connecting an expression pedal to control parameters like volume, wah, pitch, or effects in real time. A second expression input is available via MIDI. - XLR OUTPUTS
Two mono, balanced XLR outputs. - MIDI IN & OUT/THRU
1/8" TRS MIDI Type-A for receiving and sending MIDI messages to automate switching and supported parameter control, or to control other MIDI devices.
- USB-C
Connect to your computer and use Quad Cortex mini as a multichannel (8 in / 8 out) USB audio interface for recording and re-amping. - HEADPHONES OUTPUT
1/8" TRS headphones output for silent practice and monitoring. - POWER SWITCH
Mechanical power switch.
- TS OUTPUTS
Two 1/4" TS outputs for flexible routing. - CAPTURE OUTPUT
Dedicated output for creating Neural Captures. - POWER INPUT
12 V DC, 1.2 A, center-negative power input with locking 2.1 / 5.5 mm DC connector. Power supply included, with a non-locking adapter for compatibility with standard pedalboard power supplies. Power-on behavior can be set to automatic power-up when connected, or manual power-up using the power switch.
Use cases
Live performance
A complete guitar and bass rig built for the stage. Quad Cortex mini delivers consistent sound, fast switching, and confident control in live performance environments.
Studio and recording
A powerful all-in-one tool for recording and re-amping guitar and bass. Quad Cortex mini doubles as a multichannel USB-C audio interface, fitting naturally into modern DAW workflows.
Practice and songwriting
Practice silently with headphones, keep time with the built-in metronome, and build, adjust, and save sounds quickly without breaking your creative flow.
Compact touring setups
Ideal for space-conscious touring and professional stage rigs, Quad Cortex mini delivers full-stage capability in a remarkably small footprint.
Compare with Quad Cortex
CorOS features
| Feature | Quad Cortex mini | Quad Cortex |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Devices Library | 200 | 200 |
| Neural Captures Library | 1500 | 1500 |
| Impulse Responses Library | 1000 | 1000 |
| User Presets Storage | 3072 | 3072 |
| User Captures Storage | 2048 | 2048 |
| User IRs Storage | 2048 | 2048 |
| Plugin Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Parameter Encoder Assignments | Yes* | Yes (up to 10 simultaneously) |
| SCENE & STOMP Modes | Yes** | Yes (8 per Preset) |
| HYBRID Mode | Yes*** | Yes |
| Neural Capture™ Version 1 | Yes | Yes |
| Neural Capture™ Version 2 | Yes | Yes |
| Cortex Cloud™ Access | Yes | Yes |
| Cloud Backups | Yes | Yes |
| Cortex Control™ App | Yes | Yes |
| Global EQ | Yes | Yes |
| Looper | Yes | Yes |
| Momentary Footswitch Assignments | No | Yes |
*Quad Cortex mini® footswitch encoders C and D are used to focus and control parameters on screen.
**Quad Cortex mini® can access all 8 SCENES or STOMP Assignments via "Footswitch Pages".
***Quad Cortex mini® supports Hybrid Mode. However, the Hybrid configuration will be different from Quad Cortex® due to its different Footswitch layout.
Hardware I/Os
| Feature | Quad Cortex mini | Quad Cortex |
|---|---|---|
| Audio Inputs | 1x 1/4" TS (Input 1) 1x Combo XLR + 1/4" TRS (Input 2) 1x 1/4" TRS (Returns 1/2)* | 2x Combo XLR + 1/4" TRS (Inputs 1/2) 2x 1/4" TRS (Returns 1/2) |
| Audio Outputs | 2x XLR (Outs 1/2) 2x 1/4” TS (Outs 3/4) 1x 1/4” TRS (Sends 1/2)* 1x 1/4” TRS (Capture Out) 1x 1/8” TRS (Headphones) | 2x XLR (Outs 1/2) 2x 1/4" TRS (Outs 3/4) 2x 1/4" TRS (Sends 1/2) 1x 1/4" TRS (Capture Out) 1x 1/4" TRS (Headphones) |
| Headphones | Yes (1/8" TRS) | Yes (1/4" TRS) |
| USB Audio | Yes (USB-C) USB Audio Class Compliant (24bit - 48kHz) 8 in / 8 out | Yes (USB-A) USB Audio Class Compliant (24bit - 48kHz) 8 in / 8 out |
| MIDI | In (1/8" TRS Type-A) Out (1/8" TRS Type-A) MIDI Over USB | In (Din) Out (Din) MIDI Over USB |
| Expression Pedal | Expression 1: 1/4" TRS Expression 2: MIDI | Expression 1: 1/4" TRS Expression 2: 1/4" TRS |
| Power | 12V DC 1.2A Center Negative 2.1/5.5mm DC Locking Connector Power Supply Included | 12V DC 3A Center Negative 2.1/5.5mm DC Standard Connector Power Supply Included |
*Quad Cortex mini has two effects loops using shared TRS Send and Return jacks. A standard TS cable connected to SEND 1/2 or RETURN 1/2 will carry signal for Loop 1 only. To access both Loop 1 and Loop 2, use TRS insert cables (TRS to dual TS).
Other
| Feature | Quad Cortex mini | Quad Cortex |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless Connectivity | Yes IEEE 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi module (2.4GHz ISM band) | Yes IEEE 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi module (2.4GHz ISM band) |
| Power Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Master Volume | Yes (+/- Buttons) | Yes (Knob) |
| Footswitches | x4 stainless steel + rotary footswitches | x11 stainless steel + rotary footswitches |
| Display | 7" Color touch Screen | 7" Color touch Screen |
| Chassis | Anodized aluminum | Anodized aluminum |
| Dimensions | 22.8 x 11.8 x 6.5 cm / 8.9 x 4.6 x 2.5" | 29 x 19.5cm / 11.4" x 7.7" |
| Weight | 1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs | 1.95 kg / 4.2 lbs |
| Price | €1,299.00 | €1,749.00 |
Quad Cortex ecosystem
Built to evolve
Quad Cortex mini is part of the Quad Cortex platform, designed to grow with you through ongoing CorOS updates. New features, devices, and workflow improvements are added over time, so your setup continues to expand long after you start playing.
Cortex Control
Cortex Control is the desktop companion app for managing your device. Edit Presets, organize and back up content, and manage your library efficiently from your computer.
Plugin compatibility
Compatible Neural DSP plugins can be used with Quad Cortex mini, connecting software and hardware workflows and making it easy to bring familiar sounds into a live or standalone setup.
Wi-Fi and cloud integration
Built-in Wi-Fi keeps Quad Cortex mini connected. Download content from Cortex Cloud, update CorOS firmware, and manage your device wirelessly, so staying up to date feels effortless.
FAQs
I’ve never owned any digital gear, is Quad Cortex mini for me?
Yes. Quad Cortex mini is designed to be approachable from the first session, even if you’ve never used digital gear before. The touchscreen interface, visual signal chain, and intuitive controls make it easy to understand what’s happening in your rig and adjust sounds without technical knowledge.
You can start with factory Presets, then explore more advanced features at your own pace. Quad Cortex mini grows with you, from straightforward practice and playing to more complex rigs when you’re ready.
Is Quad Cortex mini a “cut down” Quad Cortex?
No. Quad Cortex mini is a fully fledged Quad Cortex in a smaller form factor. It delivers the exact same sound quality, core workflow, ecosystem, and long-term update path.
Are Presets and backups compatible between Quad Cortex and Quad Cortex mini?
Yes. Presets and backups are cross-compatible across Quad Cortex devices, so you can move content between Quad Cortex and Quad Cortex mini.
Does Quad Cortex mini use the same CorOS updates as Quad Cortex?
Yes. Quad Cortex mini shares the same CorOS platform, and updates will be released at the same time.
How do footswitches work with fewer switches than Quad Cortex?
Quad Cortex mini uses a Footswitch Pages system so you can access more functions without adding more footswitches. Page I gives you your primary assignments. Holding a footswitch reveals Page II, which provides an additional set of assignments.
Can I still access eight Scenes?
Yes. You still have access to eight Scenes. Scenes are split across Pages, so you access the remaining Scenes by switching Pages.
What is the Footswitch Pages system, and why does it matter?
Footswitch Pages let you assign more actions and controls than would normally fit on a smaller set of footswitches. This is the key system that preserves flexibility for live performance while keeping the hardware compact.
Does Quad Cortex mini support Preset, Scene, Stomp, and Hybrid modes?
Yes. Quad Cortex mini supports Preset, Scene, Stomp, and Hybrid modes so you can choose how you switch sounds and control effects.
Are the rotary footswitches the same as Quad Cortex?
Yes. Quad Cortex mini uses the same style of stainless steel rotary footswitches for switching and parameter adjustment.
What is the Focus system?
Focus maps the most relevant parameters of the selected block to the rotary footswitches, so you can browse models and adjust settings quickly without hunting through menus.
Does Quad Cortex mini support Momentary Stomp assignments?
No. Due to exclusive “press-and-hold” commands, Momentary Stomp assignments are not supported.
Is there a Gig View?
Yes. Gig View provides a high contrast, performance-ready layout with clear visual feedback.
How many effects loops does Quad Cortex mini have?
Quad Cortex mini has two effects loops using shared TRS Send and Return jacks. A standard TS cable connected to SEND 1/2 or RETURN 1/2 will carry signal for Loop 1 only. To access both Loop 1 and Loop 2, use TRS insert cables (TRS to dual TS):
SEND 1/2
Tip: Send 1
Ring: Send 2
Sleeve: Ground
RETURN 1/2
Tip: Return 1
Ring: Return 2
Sleeve: Ground
This design allows Quad Cortex mini to support two independent effects loops while keeping the hardware compact, with routing handled flexibly in the Grid.
Does Quad Cortex mini have full MIDI support?
Yes. Quad Cortex mini supports full MIDI control via 1/8-inch TRS MIDI Type A connections and MIDI over USB.
Is Quad Cortex mini powered by USB-C?
No. USB-C is for data transfer and audio interface functionality. Quad Cortex mini requires external power.
What are the power requirements?
Quad Cortex mini uses a 12 V DC, 1.2 A, center-negative power supply with a locking barrel connector. A power supply is included in the box.
Why is a non-locking power adapter included?
The locking connector is designed to stay secure in live environments. The included non-locking adapter is provided for compatibility with standard pedalboard power supplies, such as the original Quad Cortex power supply.
What inputs does Quad Cortex mini have?
INPUT 1 is a 1/4 inch instrument input. INPUT 2 is a combo XLR and 1/4 inch input for instrument or microphone use, with phantom power available when needed.
Does Quad Cortex mini work with the Cortex Control app?
Yes. Quad Cortex mini is fully compatible with the latest version of Cortex Control.
Do I need to update when I receive the unit?
Yes. Your unit may ship with an earlier CorOS version. Update to the latest CorOS and Cortex Control versions as soon as you receive it to ensure full compatibility and access to new features.
Do I need an audio driver on Windows®?
Yes. Windows® requires a dedicated audio driver, which you can download from our Downloads page. If you also use Quad Cortex, you need to have both the Quad Cortex mini and Quad Cortex drivers installed.
How many plugin activations do I get for plugin compatibility?
You can activate plugins on up to three Quad Cortex and three Quad Cortex mini devices per Neural DSP account.
How many instruments can I use at once?
Quad Cortex mini supports up to four simultaneous instrument signals. In addition to the main inputs 1 and 2, the Return 1/2 can be used as a dual input via a TRS insert cable, which allows the Return 1/2 to be split into two signals.
How durable is Quad Cortex mini?
Quad Cortex mini is designed for touring, studio, and mobile use, using robust materials and a rugged construction. It has been tested for reliability and durability in real world use cases.
What comes in the box?
The box includes a Quad Cortex mini, power supply, non-locking adapter, USB cable, and quick start documentation.
Can I use headphones with Quad Cortex mini?
Yes. Quad Cortex mini includes a dedicated headphones output for silent practice and monitoring.
Do I need an audio interface to record with Quad Cortex mini?
No. Quad Cortex mini functions as a multichannel USB-C audio interface, so you can record directly into your DAW without additional hardware.
Can I use Quad Cortex mini without an internet connection?
Yes. An internet connection is only required for firmware updates, downloading content from Cortex Cloud, or creating Neural Capture V2 models. Playing, practicing, and performing work fully offline.
Do I need a computer to use Quad Cortex mini?
No. Quad Cortex mini works as a standalone device for playing, practicing, and performing.
Does Quad Cortex mini come with sounds ready to use?
Yes. Quad Cortex mini comes preloaded with factory Presets, 90+ amp models, 100+ effects, 1000+ cabinet IRs, and 2000+ Neural Captures, so you can start playing immediately.
Does Quad Cortex mini replace traditional amps and pedals?
It can. Quad Cortex mini can replace traditional amps, cabinets, and pedals, or it can be used alongside existing gear. How much it replaces depends on your setup and preferences.
Hardware specifications
Manual
