It's a valid question that many guitarists and musicians ask themselves. With the wide range of options available, it can be overwhelming to decide whether purchasing presets is a worthwhile investment. In this blog post, we will explore the factors to consider and help you make an informed decision.
Let's start by addressing the issue of time. As the saying goes, time is money.
Creating your own presets from scratch can be a time-consuming process. It requires a deep understanding of the various effect blocks and their parameters. While some musicians enjoy the creative process and have the luxury of investing hours in tone creation, others may find themselves pressed for time. If you are often in a hurry or have a demanding schedule, purchasing presets can be a convenient solution. They provide a shortcut to achieving desired tones without the need for extensive tweaking.
Now, what about free presets available on public forums?
It's true that there are many talented musicians who generously share their presets online. These free presets can be a great starting point, especially for beginners or those looking to experiment with different sounds. However, the main drawback is the sheer quantity of presets available. Scrolling through pages and pages of presets without sound samples can be a daunting task. While there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered, the process of sifting through them can be time-consuming. Once again, time becomes a valuable consideration.
Understanding your Helix device is essential when deciding whether to purchase presets.
Initially, many users find themselves grappling with the complexity of effect blocks and how they interact with each other.
It's akin to directing a movie as a filmmaker. Just as a director understands the role of each crew member in achieving their artistic vision, as a guitarist, you must comprehend the characteristics of your pedals to craft the desired tone.
Learning to navigate the intricacies of your Helix device empowers you to make the most of presets and tailor them to your unique preferences.
To sum it up…
The value of purchasing presets ultimately depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. If time is of the essence and you want to streamline your tone creation process, investing in presets can save you valuable time and effort. While there are commendable free presets available, the sheer quantity and lack of sound samples can make the search daunting. Understanding your Helix device and its effect blocks allows you to harness the full potential of presets and personalize them to suit your musical style.
I am providing a free package consisting of two Helix presets with atmospheric pulsing effects. Feel free to try them out and if they resonate with your musical style, you may want to explore the complete Ambient Preset Pack.
Remember, music is a journey, and presets can serve as useful guideposts along the way. Happy exploring, and may your search for the perfect tone be rewarding!