This year brings us even more to choose from when it comes to amp simulation. With so many options, I’ve narrowed down the most popular items to save you time. Note that like anything else in life, it usually comes down to ‘you get what you pay for’. The Kemper and Axe-Fx (last 2 items in this list) are the best sounding modelers on the market today, however both will set you back more than $2000. For half the price, you can pick up a second hand tube amp and achieve tones just as good. Sometimes the cheaper options offer the most value for money (unless you’re a touring/recording professional), while still providing completely usable tones. When deciding on which simulator is right for, my advice would be to NOT go by how it sounds but rather how it FEELS to your playing. The best idea is to pay your local music store a visit and test out some of the options below in the real world.
Amplitube 4 ($196)There are a handful of amp simulator plugins on the market today, however Amplitube made this list because of it’s amazing sound quality along with its cross-platform compatibility (works with PC/iPad/Smartphones).
Fender Mustang ($120)There are 4 versions of the Mustang available, each one carrying more horsepower. If you’re a fan of Fender amps, then this will probably be for you.
Marshal Code Series ($220)This is an all-new release by Marshal. There are 3 combo versions (each carrying more horsepower) as well as a stack version (head and cab).
Boss GT-100 ($500)The GT-series by Boss has been around for a while, and still sounds great. Boss continues to keep the 80’s alive with the GT-100.
Line 6 Pod HD500X ($430)Those people that are not too mad about the Boss GT-series are generally in favor of Line 6. The HD500X is the latest addition to their POD family.
Axe-Fx II Ultra ($2250)The Axe-Fx features world class modeling technology, providing you with the same response as a real tube amplifier. It is, however, extremely expensive and sometimes impractical for purchasing in comparison to a tube amp.
Kemper Profiling Amp ($2575)The Kemper Profiling amp has now become commonplace in recording studios. It’s not necessarily a modelling amplifier, as it allows you to take digital snapshots of tube-based amplifiers in their current state. These are called amp profiles.
Is there anything you would like to see excluded or included in this list? Let me know in the comments below.
