The HeadRush range (Pedalboard, MX5, Prime, Core) is rig-based with a touchscreen and runs the Eleven HD Expanded amp models. Tone comes from the amp model you drag in and the IR/cab after it — HeadRush has strong custom-IR support. Here is a rig layout and picks per genre.
Build the rig. A dependable order on the touchscreen: <b>Gate → Drive (optional) → Amp → Cab/IR → EQ → Delay → Reverb</b>. Tap a block to swap models; start with one amp.
Metal / high-gain. Pick a high-gain Eleven HD model: <b>Treadplate</b> (Mesa Dual Rectifier), <b>Insane</b> or a <b>5150</b>-style model. Keep Gain around 5–7, add an overdrive block in front (low drive, level up) to tighten, scoop mids slightly, add the gate. Load a <b>4x12 V30 IR</b> and high-cut around 8 kHz.
Rock / hard rock. Model <b>Plexiglas</b> (Marshall Plexi) or a <b>JTM/Brit</b> model, Gain 5–6, mids up, a British 4x12. A light boost for solos.
Blues / classic rock. A <b>'65 Blackface</b> (Fender Deluxe) or <b>Tweed</b> model at edge of breakup, Gain 3–4, ride your guitar volume; add a drive block for leads.
Clean. A <b>Blackface Double</b> (Fender Twin) or <b>'65 Blackface</b> model, Gain 1–2, bright and dynamic — a great pedal platform. Add chorus and a spring/plate reverb.
Custom IRs make the difference. HeadRush's big strength is loading your own IRs. If the stock cabs sound boxy, load a quality IR and set a low-cut (~80–100 Hz) and high-cut (6–9 kHz) to remove mud and fizz. Save a rig per genre for fast switching live.
💡 On a HeadRush the Eleven HD amp MODEL and the IR matter most — pick the model by genre (Plexiglas for rock, Treadplate/Insane for metal, Blackface Double for clean), keep Gain moderate, tighten metal with a drive block in front, and load a custom IR with a high-cut to kill fizz.
What are the best HeadRush settings for metal?
What are the best HeadRush settings for metal?
Use a high-gain Eleven HD model such as Treadplate, Insane or a 5150-style model with Gain around 5–7, add an overdrive block in front with low drive and higher level to tighten the lows, a slight mid scoop, a noise gate, a 4x12 V30 IR, and a high-cut near 8 kHz to remove fizz.