Amp / Speaker Simulators

We’re used to seeing convolution technology in plug-ins, but recent years have seen this increasingly appearing in hardware form. DigiTech’s take on this is a compact stompbox-format dual-channel cabinet emulator.

Designed to allow the guitarist to produce familiar amped tones without the need for an actual amplifier, Radial’s ToneBone JDX Direct Drive emulates the tonal coloration of a guitar amplifier/speaker combination.

Can the Cab Clone offer something new, or is it just another ‘me-too’ cabinet simulator?

While the latest version of Hughes & Kettner's Red Box guitar amp DI adds some new tone-shaping options, the basic equation behind the Red Box remains unchanged.

The uniquely complex, spacious swirl of a real, mechanical Leslie rotary-speaker cabinet sound in a pedal!

With so many software amp simulators to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? Here’s our selection of current options, with links to the SOS review where available.

Does an all-analogue, 1989 design still have a place in the world of convolution and modelling-based guitar recording products? Get ready to be surprised by the reissued SansAmp Classic.

With so many virtual guitar amps already on the market, can newcomers Scuffham Amps bring something fresh to the party?

R3FX are a one‑man guitar‑effects outfit based in the US, and they offer a range of pedal mods by mail order, as well as a ...

There have been plenty of Leslie emulators over the years, but is the Ventilator the one that finally nails ‘that’ sound?

When it comes to convincing simulation of guitar amps, cabinets, speakers and microphones, a few hardware manufacturers seem to be pushing the boundaries. Will the Torpedo blast the competition out of the water?

With version 2 of Guitar Rig, Native Instruments are taking amp modelling into the realms of modular synthesis.

Using a combination of dummy load and speaker simulator lets you record your favourite valve guitar amp at full tilt without disturbing your neighbours. The trouble is, none of the designs so far have managed to sound close enough to a real speaker. Could this be the one that finally nails it?

Can you get a wall of sound from something the size of a brick? John Walden plugs in his guitar, inserts his earplugs and finds out.

DI boxes are essential pieces of studio kit, but they don't all do the same job. For DI'ing an electric guitar or bass that...

The quest for the perfect Leslie speaker simulator continues. Nick Magnus welcomes an all-analogue member to the rotary club...

There have been Leslie simulators before, but none to exploit the sympathetic warmth of valves.

Paul White plays axe hooligan for a day with the Sansamp PSA1.

Convincingly reproducing the effects of rotating horns and speakers in software inside a 1U rackmounting box is a challenge to the designer. Bringing it in under £300 is an achievement. Gordon Reid examines the latest incarnation of a keyboard effect that's come full circle...