Nux Metal Core Deluxe MKII High Gain Preamp Guitar Effects Pedal
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NUX Metal Core Deluxe MKII High-Gain Preamp Pedal
Harness three legendary metal amp tones, onboard IRs, and USB-C editing in a single compact stompbox built for brutal gain and studio-grade clarity.
Key Features & Benefits
- Three switchable high-gain amp models (Duo Rect, Fireman, VH4) guarantee genre-defining distortion from ’90s thrash to modern djent.
- Built-in impulse-response output (512-sample resolution) delivers authentic cab tone—perfect for direct recording or silent stages.
- Five user IR slots let you load favorite third-party cabinets, tailoring the pedal to any rig or venue without extra gear.
- TSAC-HD modeling engine delivers 48 kHz/32-bit processing for responsive picking dynamics and studio-ready fidelity.
- Master, Gain, and 3-band EQ knobs give precise shaping, from scooped crunch to mid-forward bite.
- True-bypass switching preserves your signal path when the effect is off, ensuring uncompromised tone.
- USB-C port enables firmware updates and deep editing with the free Metal Core software—future-proof your pedal.
- Mobile EFX app support (iOS/Android) allows on-the-fly parameter tweaks when you’re away from a computer.
- Rugged die-cast chassis, compact 122 × 72 mm footprint, and low 120 mA draw make it tour-ready and pedalboard friendly.
- Internal auto-save remembers settings per amp model, so your sounds are ready every time you power up.
Overview
The Metal Core Deluxe MKII condenses three of the most revered high-gain amplifiers into a palm-sized powerhouse. Whether you crave the tight, percussive chug of a Mesa-style Duo Rect, the harmonically rich roar of a Friedman-inspired Fireman, or the articulate punch of a Diezel-voiced VH4, this pedal has the attitude to cut through any mix. Pair those tones with a studio-grade IR loader and you have a complete rig that travels in your gig bag.
Performance & Capabilities
NUX’s TSAC-HD architecture captures amp sag, tube compression, and pick sensitivity at 48 kHz/32-bit, so every palm-mute and harmonic feels as immediate as a miked half-stack. An internal 512-sample IR block feeds FOH or your DAW with cabinet realism, while a traditional ¼-inch output drives any amp head for stage monitoring. USB-C connectivity opens deep-edit parameters and lets you upload IRs or install firmware updates in seconds.
Design & Construction
CNC-machined aluminum keeps weight to just 270 g, with recessed knobs that resist accidental kicks. Side-mounted jacks and a top-mounted DC input streamline pedalboard layouts, and a tri-color LED indicates active amp model for fast stage feedback.
Use Cases & Applications
From bedroom recording direct to your interface, to fly-dates where back-line amps are unpredictable, to metal worship sets that demand silent stages, the Metal Core MKII excels. Pair it with in-ear monitors for an amp-less rig, drop it in front of a clean tube combo for fire-breathing tones, or stash it in your gig bag as the ultimate high-gain backup.
What's Included
Metal Core Deluxe MKII pedal, printed quick-start guide, NUX warranty leaflet (9 V DC power supply and USB-C cable sold separately).
Complete Technical Specifications
Audio & Processing
- Pedal Type: High-gain digital preamp
- Modeling Engine: TSAC-HD, 48 kHz/32-bit
- Dynamic Range: 104 dB
- IR Resolution: 512 samples (3 factory + 5 user)
Connectivity
- Inputs: 1 × ¼″ mono
- Outputs: 1 × ¼″ mono
- USB: USB-C (editor / firmware)
- True Bypass: Yes
Electrical
- Power: 9 V DC, negative-center
- Current Draw: < 120 mA
- Input Impedance: 1 MΩ
- Output Impedance: 1 kΩ
Physical
- Dimensions: 122 (L) × 72 (W) × 47 (H) mm
- Weight: 270 g / 0.6 lb
- Housing: Die-cast aluminum
Why Choose Metal Core Deluxe MKII?
Boss MT-2 Metal Zone: classic dual-stage analog distortion but lacks IR loader and USB editing.
Electro-Harmonix Metal Muff: aggressive EQ and top-boost switch yet no amp modeling or cab sim.
Metal Core MKII combines multi-amp digital modeling, built-in IRs, and future-proof USB-C—all at a lighter 270 g chassis and a lower $89 street price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run the pedal straight into a PA?
Yes—the IR-equipped output feeds a full-range system with convincing cab tone, perfect for amp-less stages.
Does it accept third-party IRs?
Absolutely. Load up to five WAV IR files via the free Metal Core editor over USB-C.
Will it replace my amp head?
For many metal players, the MKII plus a clean power amp or FRFR monitor delivers album-ready tone without hauling a head and cab.
Is the footswitch momentary or latching?
It’s a latching true-bypass switch—tap once to engage, again to bypass.
What power supply do I need?
Any regulated 9 V DC negative-center adapter that supplies at least 120 mA.
