From one who wants the best possible modeling in a floorboard unit: In my little google investigation, I haven't found anyone (who have tried both units) saying the Helix amp modeling sounds better than the ax8/axe-fx. People say its a good unit, but is tone-wise below the FAS techonology. I also keep reading that one should try both and decide for oneself. If I had such a luxurious opportunity, I would. And if all reviews and discussions have been the other way around, or even the Helix matching the FAS sound, I would probably have gone out and bought the Helix long ago instead of waiting x months for an invite to buy the ax8. Maybe a bit narrow minded, but in this case I actually trust the voice of the internet