Guitar Amp/FX simulators

[mazz]

I'm looking at these (the "LE" versions) of the full software:Peavy Revalver HP (scroll down the page for the HP explanation)http://www.peavey.com/products/revalver/index.cfmand Line 6 (Pod Farm, not the Platinum version)http://line6.com/podfarm/amp/fx simulators. At this point I don't think I need the ability to create my own guitar amp and substitute tubes, etc., like the full version of these programs do. Typically I need to get good distortion and some effects fairly quickly (and not just for guitar sounds).Anyone have experience with either of these? The price is right! Maybe there's something out there that's a download that I haven't heard about? Free? Anything else that you love, full version or not?My requirements: must be Mac AU versionsCheers!!Mazz

[elser]

Hi Mazz,I don't know anything about the Peavey but I have a Line 6 Pod Pro, which I would bet sounds similar to Pod Farm. I've used it on many live gigs and on some recordings, and it has good convincing sounds but for me doesn't really jump out of the mix so to speak, it's rather plain.My favorite is Amplitube2 and they also have Amplitube Live which is like an LE version.Rock out dude!

[fusilierb]

The line 6 stuff sounds really great but I found the way their plug-ins worked inside of the DAW's to be a bit of a pain. I downloaded and played with the demo of the Peavey and I'll be damned if those models don't feel the most real out of any that I've heard. It's a very intriguing program, but out the box has a depth to it that really is convincing to the ear.I personally settled on Guitar Rig 3 and really like it. It's got a ton of usable presets, can be almost infinitely modified, has a very easy user interface and is very stable.B

[simonparker]

I have the Line 6 as a "rack" not plug-in so I can't say what the plug in will be like, but the "rack" going into PT via XLR works fine for me. The only plug-in I use for guitar would be amplitube which also works fine tho I really don't use their presets that often, rather mono left/right with an amp and distortion and adjust with EQ and compression plug-ins...

[mojobone]

I can speak to the most recent iteration of Line6's models; I use an X3Live on stage and in the studio. I used nothing but tube gear prior to buying the POD third-generation modeling unit, and it's my considered opinion that it does indeed sound like an amp miked up in a good room. You can't get as much variation as you could with a bunch of different mics and techniques and that many actual amps, but there's more than enough variety for any situation you're likely to encounter. (the bass amps are particularly good for bringing old, low-res samples to life) The latest generation has a parameter, "room" that equates to mic distance; if you're in need of more oomph from a given model, try setting that to 5% or less and adding some midrange. That'll get it to pop out of the mix more. The ReValver software is also very highly regarded, but I haven't tried it, yet. (no need)

[devin]

Just a slight note, which I'm sure everyone is aware: Mojo's rig is external, and Mazz is talking AU (plugin). I'm confident line 6 has made the results very transferrable.I have the POD 2 external Mazz, and it's very useful for playing...but I'd rather have a decent plug to tweak after tracking. Right now I end up committing to the tone when recording.(*Devin orders more popcorn, sets up tent, and vows not to leave thread until Mazz announces decision!*)

[mojobone]

Yup, it actually sounds a bit better, direct to the digital input or connected via USB, eliminates an extra conversion.

[mazz]

My understanding with the Line 6 stuff is that if you already own a hardware unit, you can send patches, etc., back and forth via USB.http://line6.com/news/general/710At first, the Pod Farm only worked with these hardware units but they've now released it as software.I've requested a download from Line 6 (they have to put it on my iLok, oh well) and I'm downloading the Peavey software demo right now. It may take a while for me to get around to trying them so, Devin, keep yourself hydrated!! Mazz

[yammer107]

Mar 31, 2009, 11:34am, fusilierb wrote:I personally settled on Guitar Rig 3 and really like it. It's got a ton of usable presets, can be almost infinitely modified, has a very easy user interface and is very stable.BMe too... I love it. Very easy drag & drop effects routing... I've ran up to 3-4 instances of the plug-in with no issues. And they offer a $99 dollar minimalist version.......http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/GuitarRigXE/But I dont think you can go wrong with the $69 Revalver HP version your already looking at..... ...Chris

[slideboardouts]

Hey Mazz,I just downloaded the demo of Peavey's Revalver and this thing F***in' rips dude. I've just messed with the presets so far but I can say I'm pretty pleased. I very well may purchase this. It has very good preset distortions for rhythm and lead work.On the "1982" preset I was able to do all of my stupid eddie and yngwie tricks without going "this sucks, I'm plugging into an amp." It really responds well to intricate work like a good amp/distortion pedal. I don't think you would be disappointed with this thing. It sounds pretty damn convincing.I am in love with this plug in. Thanks for introducing us, mazz! -Steve