Key Highlights
- Neural DSP unveils the Quad Cortex Mini at NAMM 2026.
- The device is a downsized version of the company’s flagship Quad Cortex, retaining its comprehensive amp and effect library.
- Featuring a 7” touchscreen display and four rotary footswitches, the Mini offers precise control in both live and studio environments.
- Available now for €1,299, the Quad Cortex Mini is priced to compete with its larger sibling while offering a more compact form factor.
New from Neural DSP: The Compact Quad Cortex Mini
In what’s sure to be one of the biggest launches of the 2026 NAMM Show, Neural DSP has unveiled the Quad Cortex Mini, offering the full sound and processing power of its flagship Quad Cortex amp modeller in a significantly smaller footprint.
A Compact Form Factor with Unmatched Power
The Quad Cortex Mini measures just 22.8 x 11.8 x 6.5 cm, weighing only 1.5 kg and being 50% smaller than the original Quad Cortex. Despite its size reduction, it maintains the same comprehensive library of amps and effects, making it a standout in the market.
User Interface and Control Options
The interface is centered around a 7” touchscreen display and four stainless steel rotary footswitches. These provide “precise, tactile control underfoot and at the fingertips in both live and studio environments.” Features like Neural Capture V1 and V2 support for capturing amps, cabs, drives, fuzzes and compressors ensure that musicians can achieve ultra-accurate digital replicas of their gear.
Comprehensive Amp Modelling Library
The Quad Cortex Mini comes with a comprehensive library of 90+ amps, 100+ effects, 1,000+ IRs (Impulse Responses) and 2,000+ captures. Users can access these via the Cortex Cloud, which offers free community contributions. Additionally, there are advanced features like the Focus system for fast parameter control with rotary footswitches, a Pages system for extended footswitch control without increasing hardware footprint, and a Gig View for “performance-focused” stage control.
Performance Enhancements and Connectivity
The new unit introduces a locking power connector for secure live operation. It also offers comprehensive I/O with an instrument/mic combo input with phantom power, balanced XLR outputs, stereo send/return via TRS, MIDI over TRS, USB-C, and even a headphone output for quiet practice.
Continuing Neural DSP’s Commitment to Innovation
“Since the introduction of Quad Cortex in 2020,” says Douglas Castro, CEO and Co-Founder of Neural DSP, “our goal has been to define the standard for what an all-in-one digital rig can be. We set out to combine machine-learning-based modelling, studio-grade audio quality, and a fast, performance-focused workflow in a single unit. With Quad Cortex Mini, we’ve carried that same philosophy forward, preserving the processing architecture and Neural Capture technology that allow us to create ultra-accurate digital replicas of amplifiers, cabinets, drive pedals, fuzzes, and compressors, now in a more compact form without compromise.”
Along with the Quad Cortex Mini, Neural DSP has also unveiled CorOS 4.0.0, bringing new utilities to the platform including a series of reverbs and Phase Doctor for aligning signals in stereo rigs and multi-amp setups.
Availability and Pricing
The Quad Cortex Mini is now available, priced at €1,299. For more information, head to Neural DSP’s website or visit them at Booth #5243 during the 2026 NAMM Show.
Sam Roche, Associate News Editor for Guitar.com and MusicTech, notes that this new product represents a bold evolution in amp modelling technology. He emphasizes that size shouldn’t dictate what is possible in a professional rig, ensuring users can rely on the same technology, results, and trust in their setup regardless of form factor.
