List of amp simulations

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This is a list of the amps the Axe-Fx (first generation) emulates, including their descriptions (manual and website), suggestions for matching cabinets and additional notes. The text in italics originates from the manual or website.

Pictures of some of the amps

Axe-Fx name Details of model
TUBE PRE = STUDIO TUBE PREAMP

This is a completely neutral, low-gain tube pre-amp simulation. Useful for warming up vocals and other instruments as well as direct guitar sound

  • Cabinet suggestion: n/a
  • Turn down Drive if the signal breaks up
JAZZ = ROLAND JAZZ CHORUS JC-120

This model is based on a 2x12 solid-state combo amp, known for its warm, midrange-thick sound and built-in stereo chorus

  • Cabinet suggestion: none. Alternative: Red Wirez JC-120
  • Original controls: Volume, Treble, Middle, Bass
  • Original manual
BROWNFACE = FENDER VIBROVERB

Our model is based on a 40W combo that's great for clear or grinding cleans and gutsy blues. This amp breaks up nicely, especially when the Master is cranked

  • Cabinet suggestion: 1x10 Gold. Alternative: Red Wirez Fender Dual Showman
  • Original controls (Normal channel): Volume (no Master), Bass/Treble, Bright switch (on by default). The real amp also has a Bright channel
  • For authentic clean tone: crank the Master, Drive at 3.50. For more crunch turn up Drive
  • Fender tips in the Wiki
  • Wikipedia
  • Fender Forum, The Fender Forum, FenderTalk, Fender
59 BASSGUY (formerly: BLUES) = FENDER BASSMAN

Model based on the Fender Bassman®, a low-to-medium gain amp designed for bass but more widely adopted by guitarists for its great blues and rock tones

DELUXE VERB (formerly: TWEED) = FENDER DELUXE REVERB (AB763)

Model based on a 1965 Fender Deluxe Reverb® 1x12 combo. This model has great chimey tone with nice power amp breakup when you push the MASTER

  • The former name "Tweed Deluxe" and description didn't match with the modeled amp. The name was changed to Deluxe Verb in firmware 9.01 and the amp was remodeled
  • Cabinet suggestion: 1x12 Tweed or 1x12 Black. Alternative: Red Wirez Fender Deluxe Reverb (Oxford speaker)
  • Original controls: Volume, Bass, Treble
  • For authentic tone: crank the Master, Drive at 3.50, Mid at 6.8
  • Fender tips in the Wiki
  • Wikipedia
  • Fender Forum, The Fender Forum, FenderTalk, Fender
DOUBLE VERB (formerly: BLACKFACE) = FENDER TWIN REVERB

Based on a blackface Fender Twin Reverb® 100-watt 2x12" combo, running the “Normal” channel. Known for amazing clean sounds it also breaks up very nicely

CLASS A = VOX AC30

Model based on the Vox AC30®, a combo that dominated the British Invasion sound. This model has the same gritty character, warm tone, and very playable feel

  • Cabinet suggestion: 1x12 or 2x12 Brit. Alternative: Red Wirez Vox, Red Wirez Blue, Ownhammer Blue
  • Original controls: Cut, Volume. The original amp didn't have Bass, Middle and Treble controls, so leave them at noon and use Presence (= Cut) instead
  • Cliff: "An AC30 has no power amp feedback so it doesn't have presence or depth controls. It has a "Cut" control which is basically an adjustable snubber on the phase inverter. The Presence control becomes the Cut control. To duplicate the amp you would only adjust the Presence negative but the model lets you boost as well if you adjust Presence positive. The Depth control won't do anything so it doesn't matter where you set it. If the Damping (Damp) is zero the Depth control is disabled and Damp defaults to zero for that amp model"
  • For authentic tone: crank the Master, keep Drive low, keep the tone controls at noon, use Presence to cut the treble
  • Try with a Tonebender or Treble Booster Drive block. Try with the Plexi tonestack. Or try the AC30TB tone stack (Bright on)
  • Wikipedia
  • Vox forum
TOP BOOST = VOX AC30TBX TOPBOOST

Model based on the Vox AC30TBX® Top Boost, an amp created in response to demand for "More Treble". Great highs and slightly reduced bass

  • Cabinet suggestion: 1x12 or 2x12 Brit. Or use (or combine with) Marshall greenbacks (4x12 20w or 25w). Alternative: Red Wirez Vox and Marshall greenbacks, Ownhammer Blue and greenbacks
  • Original controls: Volume, Cut (= Presence control), Bass, Treble
  • For authentic tone: crank the Master, set Drive to taste, Mid at noon. Use Presence only to cut the high frequencies (left of noon)
  • Cliff: "An AC30 has no power amp feedback so it doesn't have presence or depth controls. It has a "Cut" control which is basically an adjustable snubber on the phase inverter. The Presence control becomes the Cut control. To duplicate the amp you would only adjust the Presence negative but the model lets you boost as well if you adjust Presence positive. The Depth control won't do anything so it doesn't matter where you set it. If the Damping (Damp) is zero the Depth control is disabled and Damp defaults to zero for that amp model"
  • Instead of turning up Drive, try boosting the input signal before the amp, for example with a Tape Drive or FET Boost Drive block
  • Another approach to get a Topboost tone: use the Class A sim, set its tonestack to AC30TB, switch on Bright (source: Scott Peterson)
  • Wikipedia
  • Vox forum
PLEXI 1 = MARSHALL SUPER LEAD (MODEL 1959 a.k.a. PLEXI)

Based on the classic British amp head that gave rise to the Marshall stack: the Super Lead Model 1959 Plexi. Great for crunchy rhythm work

  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 20w / 25w / Green. Alternative: Red Wirez Marshall greenbacks, Ownhammer greenbacks
  • Original controls: Volume, Bass, Middle, Treble. Presence on later models. Bright (Lead channel only)
  • Crank the Master, set Drive high. Experiment with higher Sag settings
  • Because the bright cap (Lead channel) is very large, the Bright switch has a great impact on the amount of gain. Source
  • Cliff: "One of the first mods people make to real 'Plexi' Marshalls is to "clip the bright cap". The bright cap varied over the years, supposedly depending on what was lying around in the shop. The model defaults to the bright cap in the circuit. If you turn the bright off you're effectively clipping the bright cap. With the bright cap in Marshalls can be very bright and harsh. However, if you crank the Master you might find the extra brightness helps compensate for the power amp getting darker"
  • If the bass gets farty, turn up Low-Cut
  • Wiki: Bright switch
  • Wikipedia
  • MarshallForum
BRIT 800 = MARSHALL JCM800 (MODEL 2204)

Model based on the vaunted Marshall JCM800 (model 2204). Bring the Master up and the true 80s rock tone of this beast comes out

  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 V30, 4x12 20w / 25w /75w. Alternative: Red Wirez Marshall, Ownhammer
  • Original controls: Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble, Presence, Volume
  • For authentic tone: experiment with medium to high Master volume levels
  • The bright cap on the original (Lead channel) is tied to the pre-amp gain setting (Drive). If the amp is too bright on lower Drive setings, switch off Bright
  • Try with a TS808 or Tube Drive block, set the Drive block to zero Drive and full Level
  • Wikipedia
  • MarshallForum
BRIT 900 = MARSHALL JCM900

Based on the Marshall JCM900m this amp offers more tone shaping, more gain, and a solid-state clipping circuit for a raspier sound

  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 V30, 4x12 75w, 4x12 T75, 4x12 25w. Alternative: Red Wirez Marshall, Ownhammer
  • Original controls: Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble, Presence, Volume
  • The bright cap on the original (Lead channel) is tied to the pre-amp gain setting (Drive). If the amp is too bright on low Drive setings, switch off Bright
  • Experiment with medium to high Master Volume levels
  • Try with a TS808 or Tube Drive block. Set the Drive block to zero Drive and full Level
  • Wikipedia
  • MarshallForum
BROWN = EDDIE VAN HALEN'S MODDED MARSHALL

A faithful recreation of the pure, raw (some might say erupting...) "Brown Sound" -- the signature tone of perhaps the best-known guitarist of the late '70s/'80s

  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 20w / 25w / Green. Alternative: Red Wirez Marshall greenbacks, Ownhammer greenbacks
  • Original controls: Volume, Bass, Middle, Treble. Bright (Lead channel)
  • For authentic tone: crank the Master Volume, turn up Drive. Or try the factory preset The Brown Sound
  • Because the bright cap (Lead channel) is very large, the Bright switch has a great impact on the amount of gain
  • Tip in the Wiki about the Bright switch
  • Wikipedia
  • MarshallForum
BOUTIQUE 1

BOUTIQUE 2

= MATCHLESS CHIEFTAIN: RHYTHM / LEAD

BOUTIQUE 1: Based on the Matchless Chieftain, known for its liquid tone and endless sustain -- a medium-gain amp, thick, yet crisp, with a fair amount of power amp breakup

BOUTIQUE 2: Also based on the Matchless Chieftain but with a boost engaged for more gain and high-frequency emphasis. Great for leads

  • Cabinet suggestion: 2x12 Boutique. Alternative: Red Wirez Matchless
  • Based on a Vox circuit
  • Original controls: Volume, Master Volume, Bass, Treble, Brilliance (Presence). No Mids
  • Keep Mid at noon. Turn up the Master Volume for crunchy leads
  • Tips in the Wiki
  • Original manual
  • Wikipedia
HIPOWER 1

HIPOWER 2

= HIWATT DR103: NORMAL / BRILLIANT CHANNEL

HIPOWER 1: Based on this medium-gain, full sound amp... unique tone-stack and a chimey grinding tone. Your ears may go numb (comfortably) with this one

HIPOWER 1: A brighter model based on the amp’s "Brilliant" channel. Who's next to to plug in to this inspired amp model?

  • Cabinet suggestion: none. Alternative: Red Wirez Fane
  • Original controls: Volume, Master, Bass, Middle, Treble and Presence
  • Dialing in the Hiwatt
  • Wikipedia
USA CLEAN = MESA BOOGIE MKIV, CLEAN RHYTHM 1 CHANNEL

A somewhat neutral clean sounding model that can pushed into warm clipping. Based on a Mesa Boogie MKIV Rhythm 1 channel

  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 Cali. Alternative: Red Wirez Mesa, Ownhammer Mesa
  • Clean channel is based upon a Fender circuit
  • Turn up Drive, keep Master Volume low (3.50)
  • Original controls: Gain, Volume, Treble, Mid, Bass, Presence. Bright switch. Graphic Equalizer not modeled
  • John Petrucci settings
  • Original manual MKIV: detailed descriptions of the controls and sample settings
  • Tips in the Wiki
  • Wikipedia
  • Grailtone
USA RHY 1

USA RHY 2

= MESA BOOGIE MKIV, CRUNCH RHYTHM 2 CHANNEL: FAT SWITCH NOT ACTIVE / ACTIVE

USA RHY 1: A crunchy California rhythm sound based on a the Rhythm2 channel with the Mid Boost (“Fat”) switch OFF

USA RHY 2: Based on the MKIV Rhythm 2 channel, this time with the Mid Boost (“Fat”) switch ON for a more focused sound and a bit more gain

USA LEAD 1

USA LEAD 2

= MESA BOOGIE MKIV Lead: Treble Shift NO / YES

USA LEAD 1: This model has a tight, focused, hi-gain sound great for fusion and rock leads. Based on the Lead channel with the Treble Shift disengaged

USA LEAD 2: Based on a MKIV, the Treble Shift gives this amp a slightly different character with a little more cut

  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 Cali. Alternative: Red Wirez Mesa, Ownhammer Mesa
  • Original controls: Gain and Master, Bass/Middle/Treble, Presence (without/with treble shift), Bright switch. Graphic Equalizer not modeled
  • Treble Shift: this shifts the range of the Presence control to higher frequencies on the original amp, it influences the Treble control. In LEAD 1 Treble Shift is off, which works well for recording. In LEAD 2 Treble Shift is switched on, which works well within a band context, but can generate squealing and noise at high volume or gain levels
  • Turn up Drive, keep Master Volume low (3.50), don't use Bright on higher volume levels
  • John Petrucci settings
  • Original manual MKIV: detailed descriptions of the controls and sample settings
  • Tips in the Wiki
  • Wikipedia
  • Grailtone forum
RECTO ORANGE

RECTO RED

= MESA BOOGIE 2-CHANNEL DUAL RECTIFIER (OLD, SMALL LOGO): VINTAGE ORANGE CHANNEL (RHYTHM) / MODERN RED CHANNEL (LEAD)

RECTO ORANGE: Based on a the original Mesa Boogie 2-channel Dual Rectifier in the "Vintage" (Orange) channel (rhythm)

RECTO RED: Based on the Modern (Red) "Lead" channel, this is a high gain masterpiece with crushing power and tightness

  • The names and models changed from Recto 1 into Recto Orange and Recto 2 into Recto Red in 7.03, in firmware 7.03. (The manual still lists Recto 1 and 2)
  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 Recto1 or Recto2. Alternative: Red Wirez Mesa, Ownhammer Mesa
  • Original controls: Gain and Master, Bass/Middle/Treble, Presence. And probably a Bright peaker because the amp sim defaults to Bright on.
  • Turn up Drive, keep Master Volume low (3.50), keep Presence low
  • Recto Red defaults to no Damping, can be turned up
  • Cliff: "None of the Recto models in the Axe-Fx have the post tone-stack bass boost. If you want to replicate the behavior of a Single Rectifier you need to put an 11 dB bass boost after the preamp model. The Axe-Fx models are based on the Dual Rectifier modes with the bass boost switch off. Single Rectifiers engage the bass boost switch automatically in channel 2"
  • To mimick the bass boost, use a PEQ or low shelf Filter after the Amp block to boost bass by 11 dB at around 120Hz.
  • Original manual: detailed descriptions of the controls and sample settings
  • Video demo
  • Wikipedia
  • Grailtone forum
SOLO 100 = SOLDANO SUPER LEAD OVERDRIVE (SLO-100)

The SLO-100® is noted for its hot-rod chrome chassis, aggressive rhythm tone, and snarling lead sound

  • The Axe-Fx models the Overdrive channel
  • Cabinet suggestion: greenbacks (4x12 20w / 25w / green), G12H30 (4x12 30w), 4x12 Cali, EVL12. Alternative: Red Wirez Soldano (Eminence Legend), G12H30 or EVM12L. Or Ownhammer EVM12L or H75.
  • Original controls: Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble, Master, Presence. Bright switch (on the original amp only for Normal Channel)
  • Cliff: "The SLO100 is the loudest amp I've ever used. It feels like there's a small nuclear explosion going off inside when ever you hit a power chord. It's a wicked amp but not something I would recommend for anything but large gigs. If you like the SLO 100 model you might want to try the Recto models too. It's not widely known but the Rectifier preamp is a derivative of the SLO100. Some minor changes but the basic topology is identical"
  • Keep the Master volume low (3.50). It's a very bright amp, keep Presence and Treble low
  • Original manual
  • Soldano forum
  • Wikipedia
SPEC OD1

SPEC OD2

= DUMBLE OVERDRIVE SPECIAL: CLEAN / LEAD

SPEC OD1: Based on the Clean channel of a coveted but rare amp made famous by Robben Ford and Larry Carlton, among others

SPEC OD2: Based on this amp's foot-switchable Lead channel with great singing sustain and tone appropriate for modern blues, fusion, and more

  • Cabinet suggestion: 2x12 Custom
  • Original controls: Master, Bass, Middle, Treble. Bright switch
  • Wikipedia
EURO BLUE

EURO RED

= 20TH ANN. BOGNER ECSTASY (XTC): BLUE / RED CHANNEL

EURO BLUE: Based on the 20th Anniversary model, this amp type simulates the overdrive channel with the BOOST and STRUCTURE switches OFF

EURO RED: This is based on the Red Channel with BOOST and STRUCTURE switches ON. Lots of gain and plenty of low-end chunk along with a crispy top-end

  • In firmware 10.x the names have been changed from Euro 1 to Euro Blue, and from Euro 2 to Euro Red. The description for Euro Red in the manual and on the website hasn't been updated
  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 German. Alternative: Red Wirez Bogner, Ownhammer V30
  • Original controls: Gain and Master, Bass/Middle/Treble, Presence, Bright switch (off by default)
  • Euro Blue: the model is very low gain and dark. Try with Boost and Bright (or turn up Presence instead of Bright)
  • Euro Red: the model is very dark. Try Bright (or turn up Presence)
  • Quote Cliff: "My actual XTC has a Log10 pot for the treble which is an odd choice. Treble pots are usually linear and the Axe-Fx model uses a linear pot. The problem with a log-taper pot is that the treble does almost nothing for the first 50%. So you can't use your eyes if you want to copy the tone. This is the case with several of the amp models. In these cases the taper used on the real amp is what I would call "a less than optimum" choice. I think in many cases the designer simply doesn't realize the affect the taper has on the locus. So, if I deemed the choice of taper to be "incorrect" the model uses the correct taper. The Bogner models fall into this category. The choice of a Log10 pot for the treble pot doesn't make sense so the model uses a linear taper which gives a smooth locus"
  • Original manual
  • 20th Ann. specifications
  • Sample settings
  • Sound clips
  • Bogner Amp Forum
  • Wikipedia
UKGC30 = LANEY GC30V

Based on the marriage of a USA style pre-distortion tone-stack, British voicing and Class A power amp. Great for lower-gain leads with nice sustain qualities

  • Cabinet suggestion: none
  • Based on Vox AC30
  • Original controls: Drive, Bass, Middle, Treble, Volume. No Bright
  • Original manual
BUTTERY = BUDDA TWINMASTER

This model is loosely based on a late 90s Budda Twinmaster. A low gain amp, it relies mostly on power amp distortion. Try a drive in front for smooth lines

  • Cabinet suggestion: greenbacks (4x12 20w / 25w), 4x12 30w or something that resembles Eminence Legends
  • Original controls: Bass, Treble, Volume. Bright cap on the Volume control (Bright switch)
  • Turn up the Master volume, use Drive for volume and gain, turn down Bass (or turn up Low Cut)
  • Try a Drive block before the Amp
  • Cliff: "I did the Buttery model by ear. I listened to some clips of Buddas (Matchbox 20, remember them?) and tweaked the model until I thought it sounded like one. Screwed around a little with the tube bias points until it had the right balance of harmonics and called it a day"
  • Wikipedia
  • Budda Forum
  • Original manual
FAS METAL = FRACTAL AUDIO SYSTEMS: CUSTOM MODEL

A custom type similar to a JCM but with more gain and grind. This simulation features quite a bit of high- emphasis along with a modified British tone-stack

  • No equivalent original amplifier
  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 Marshall
FAS BIG HAIR = FRACTAL AUDIO SYSTEMS: CUSTOM MODEL

Spandex, studded wrist bands, pyrotechnics and this custom creation by Fractal Audio Systems are all you'll need to re-live the 80's metal scene

  • No equivalent original amplifier
  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 Marshall
FAS HELLBEAST = FRACTAL AUDIO SYSTEMS: CUSTOM MODEL

A radical custom amplifier model designed with an unconventional tone-stack by Fractal Audio Systems

  • No equivalent original amplifier
  • Cabinet suggestion: none
FAS SUPERTWEED = FRACTAL AUDIO SYSTEMS: CUSTOM MODEL

This model designed by Fractal is like a vintage Tweed amplifier on steroids

  • No equivalent original amplifier
  • Cabinet suggestion: Tweed
FAS FUSION = FRACTAL AUDIO SYSTEMS: CUSTOM MODEL

This model designed by Fractal Audio Systems has a smooth, thick tone good for fusion/blues solo work

  • No equivalent original amplifier
  • Cabinet suggestion: 2x12 Custom
FAS CLEAN = FRACTAL AUDIO SYSTEMS: CUSTOM MODEL

Combines the best features of the Blackface and the USA Clean models into a hybrid that's great for a variety of uses

  • No equivalent original amplifier
  • Cabinet suggestion: 1x12 or 2x12 Black
FAS CRUNCH = FRACTAL AUDIO SYSTEMS: CUSTOM MODEL

Combines the best features of the British and USA crunch models for grinding tones that are evocative and innovative at the same time

  • No equivalent original amplifier. Based on Mesa amp
  • Cabinet suggestion: Mesa (4x12 Recto1, Recto2 or Cali)
FAS LEAD 1 = FRACTAL AUDIO SYSTEMS: CUSTOM MODEL

A custom amp by Fractal Audio Systems, this model is a neutral high gain lead with a tight midrange

  • No equivalent original amplifier. Based on Mesa amp
  • Cabinet suggestion: Mesa (4x12 Recto1, Recto2 or Cali)
FAS LEAD 2 = FRACTAL AUDIO SYSTEMS: CUSTOM MODEL

A custom amp by Fractal Audio Systems, this model has more sizzle and gain the the FAS Lead I

  • No equivalent original amplifier. Based on Mesa amp
  • Cabinet suggestion: Mesa (4x12 Recto1, Recto2 or Cali)
FAS MODERN = FRACTAL AUDIO SYSTEMS: CUSTOM MODEL

A high gain hybrid model custom designed by Fractal Audio Systems. Equally well suited to modern rhythm and lead work

  • No equivalent original amplifier. Based on Mesa amp
  • Cabinet suggestion: Mesa (4x12 Recto1, Recto2 or Cali)
JR BLUES = FENDER BLUES JR

Based on a modern combo with two EL84s and a single 12" speaker. The original became an instant classic because of its gutsy tone at manageable volumes

BRIT PRE = MARSHALL JMP-1 PREAMP

Based on a rack-mount preamplifier version of the Brit 900. The preamp gained notoriety for its crunchy tone and was made popular by ZZ Top and Def Leppard

  • Cabinet suggestion: n/a
  • This sim uses the poweramp of the JMC800
  • The original preamp has two tubes inside
  • Original controls: Gain, Volume, Bass, Mid, Treble, Presence
  • Original manual
  • Wikipedia
  • MarshallForum
ENERGYBALL = ENGL POWERBALL, LEAD CHANNEL

Based on a very high-gain amplifier from Germany with lots of bass. Great for aggressive, drop-tuned riff work

  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 Metal. Alternative: Red Wirez Engl, Ownhammer V30
  • Original controls: Gain, Volume, Bass, Middle, Treble, Presence. Bright switch (Clean channel)
  • Original manual: sample settings
  • Wikipedia
RECTO NEW = MESA BOOGIE 3-CHANNEL DUAL RECTIFIER, RED "MODERN" CHANNEL

Based on the modern version of the Dual Rectifier amps. Circuit changes made this version more aggressive

  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 Recto1 or Recto2. Alternative: Red Wirez Mesa, Ownhammer Mesa
  • Original controls: Presence, Master, Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble. No Bright
  • Keep Master volume low (3.50), use Drive to add gain
  • Cliff: "None of the Recto models in the Axe-Fx have the post tone-stack bass boost. If you want to replicate the behavior of a Single Rectifier you need to put an 11 dB bass boost after the preamp model. The Axe-Fx models are based on the Dual Rectifier modes with the bass boost switch off. Single Rectifiers engage the bass boost switch automatically in channel 2"
  • To mimick the bass boost, use a PEQ or low shelf Filter after the Amp block to boost bass by 11 dB at around 120Hz.
  • Original manual: detailed descriptions of the controls and sample settings
  • Tips in the Wiki
  • Wikipedia
  • Grailtone forum
HAD ODS 1 = DUMBLE OVERDRIVE SPECIAL

A revised model based on detailed analysis of a very rare Dumble Overdrive Special as used by the likes of Larry Carlton and Robben Ford

  • This sim is based on a real Dumble amp. The SPEC OD sims are based on schematics
  • Cabinet suggestion: 2x12 Custom
  • Original controls: Level and Master, Bass/Middle/Treble, Bright switch, no Presence
  • Wikipedia
WRECKER 1 = TRAINWRECK EXPRESS

Based on the Trainwreck Express—a high quality handmade amp designed and built by Ken Fischer

  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 20w or 25w (greenbacks). Red Wirez greenbacks, Ownhammer greenbacks
  • Original controls: Volume (no Master), Bas/Middle/Treble, Presence, Bright switch (off by default).
  • Crank the Master Volume, use Drive for volume and gain. Keep bass low (and/or turn up Low Cut) to prevent flubby bass
  • Don't use this without poweramp simulation, it'll sound terrible. Cliff: "The Trainwreck depends on power amp distortion. The OT has a high impedance which causes the power tubes to enter clipping early. I would not recommend using that model as preamp."
  • FAQ
  • Sound clips
BRIT JM45 = MARSHALL JTM45

Based on a vintage Marshall JTM45 blues amplifier. This amp made famous by Clapton and others was actually a modified version of the original Bassman

  • This amp is based on the Fender Bassman and was the first Marshall amp, 45 watts and 4 Celestion 12" speakers
  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 20w or 25w, 4x12 Green. Alternative: Red Wirez Marshall, Ownhammer greenbacks
  • Original controls: Volume, Bass, Middle, Treble
  • Turn down bass (or turn up Low Cut)
  • Wikipedia
  • MarshallForum
DAS METALL = DIEZEL VH4

Based on a high-gain, boutique amplifier head famous for its powerful, heavy and aggressive sound

PLEXI 2 = MARSHALL SUPER LEAD (MODEL 1959)

Similar to Plexi 1 but with a different "bright cap" value and transformer model. Lower gain and more "vintage" sounding

  • Cabinet suggestion: greenbacks (4x12 20w or 25w, 4x12 Green) or G12H30 (4x12 30w). Alternative: Red Wirez Marshall, Ownhammer H75 or M75
  • Original controls: Volume, Bass, Middle, Treble. Presence on later models. Bright (Lead channel)
  • Crank the Master Volume and turn up Drive. Keep Bass low (or turn up Low Cut). Experiment with higher Sag settings
  • Because the bright cap (Lead channel) is very large, the Bright switch in the sim has a great impact on the amount of gain
  • Wiki: Bright switch
  • Wikipedia
  • MarshallForum
SV BASS = AMPEG SVT

Based on the Ampeg SVT (“Super Valve Technology”) that is used for decades by famous bassists the world over

  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x10 Alum, 8x10 Bass, 1x15 Bass. Alternative: Red Wirez SVT
  • Original controls: ...
  • Wikipedia
CA3+ RHY

CA3+ LD

= CUSTOM AUDIO ELECTRONICS 3+ SE: RHYTHM CHANNEL 2 / LEAD CHANNEL 3

CA3+ RHY: Based on channel 2 (Rhythm) of the 3+ SE preamp by CAE. For Ch. 1 (Clean), use the "DOUBLE VERB" model)

CA3+ LD: Based on channel 3 (Lead) of the 3+ SE preamp by CAE designed by Bob Bradshaw

  • Cliff: "Channel 1 isn't modeled because it's very similar to a Fender Twin (Double Verb model)"
  • Cabinet suggestion: n/a
  • Original controls: Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble, Volume, Punch, Presence. Bright switch
  • Original manual
Eggie R20 = EGNATER REBEL 20

Based on the Egnater Rebel 20 20W amplifier head, offering perfect proof that good things really DO come in small packages, (or in this case, DSP packages)

USA IIC+ 1

USA IIC+ 2

= MESA BOOGIE MARK II LEAD: PULL BRIGHT OFF / ON

USA IIC+ 1: Based on a US-made amp famous for its smooth overdrive sound. This model has the pull bright OFF

USA IIC+ 2: Based on a US-made amp famous for its smooth overdrive sound. This model has the pull bright ON

  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 Cali. Alternative: Red Wirez Mesa, Ownhammer Mesa
  • Original controls: Volume, Bass, Mid, treble, Bright, Treble Shift, Gain Boost, Pull Bright
  • Wikipedia
  • Original manual
  • Tips in the Wiki
FRYER D60L

FRYER D60M

= VHT DELIVERANCE 60: LESS / MORE

FRYER D60L: Based on the Fryette Amplification D60 in the "Less" mode

FRYER D60M: Based on the Fryette Amplification D60 in the "More" mode

  • Cabinet suggestion: one that comes close to a 2x12 or 4x12 cabinet with Eminence 50w speakers
  • Original controls: Gain, Volume, Bass, Middle, Treble, Presence, Depth
  • Original manual
  • Wikipedia
  • User forum
MR. Z 38 SR = DR. Z MAZ 38 Senior

Based on the Dr. Z Maz 38 SR, an amp popular with country and roots players

EURO UBER = BOGNER UBERSCHALL, HIGH-GAIN CHANNEL

Based on the aggressive " High Gain" channel of a 120W head, this model is reminiscent of an 800, modded for heavier, grinding lows and what some call insane gain

  • Cabinet suggestion: simulate a Bogner Uberkab by using a stereo cab or dual cabs with 4x12 German and 4x12 75w. Alternative: Red Wirez Bogner Uberkab
  • Original controls: Gain and Master, Bass/Middle/Treble, Presence, no Bright
  • Keep the Master volume low (3.50). Turn up Presence, add Mids
  • Reworked in firmware 10.x
  • Bogner manual: "One of the most unique items is our "Presence" control. It's an amazing combination of a midrange-presence control. As you sweep through its range you will notice an incredible variety of tones this one control allows. For an extremely aggressive sub-harmonic bass and scooped-midrange sound, keep the presence off or very low. A huge 3-dimensional tone can be found by running the presence around 2 o'clock. Pushing the "Presence" control to maximum will allow you to cut a sonic path through the mix by reinforcing your midrange and slightly rolling off the sub-bass. Trust us: REALLY check out the presence control to unleash the hidden secrets of the UBERSCHALL. The "Midrange" control is very interactive with all the other tone controls, you can go from a hollow scooped-mid setting to an aggressive in your face and on your throat kind of intensity. The "Bass" control allows almost a sub-harmonic low-end to be added, at high volumes be sure to keep the bass down a bit to keep your tone focused like a laser beam"
  • Bogner Twinjet model manual: "The TWIN JET features the original high gain channel with the exception that the presence control which works in the power amp circuit on the regular Uberschall is now in the pre amp circuit which gives you an additional control to shape the sound. Reason is, the TWIN JET has a global master depth and presence control. These affect both channels and will give you control over the overall bass response and presence. Start at 10 to 11 o'clock on the presence and adjust careful to your taste. The depth control is great to give a fuller sound at lower volumes, for higher volumes it will add massive bass and might cover up the rest of the frequencies, best to keep it low but adjust to your taste."
  • Sound clips
  • Original manual and recommended settings
  • Bogner Amp Forum
  • Wikipedia
PVH 5105 = PEAVEY 5150, LEAD CHANNEL, HI-INPUT

Based on the high input lead channel of a high gain amp with the same name as an album so called for the California police code for "criminally insane"

  • Cabinet suggestion: greenbacks (4x12 20w or 25w, 4x12 Green). Alternative: Red Wirez Sheffield, Ownhammer greenbacks
  • Original controls: ...
  • Cliff: "The hi-input on the Lead channel is modelled. It has lots of gain. Even at noon it's already very saturated"
  • Keep the Master volume low (3.50)
  • Wikipedia
  • Original manual
Solo X99 Clean

Solo X99 Rhythm Solo X99 Lead

= SOLDANO X99 PREAMP: CLEAN / RHYTHM / LEAD

Based on the Clean / Rhythm / Lead Channel of a very highly regarded rack mount preamplifier

Corncob R100 = CORNFORD RK100

Based on a boutique British amplifier, the Cornford RK100, which is said to have a Plexi-Meets-Modern tone and feel with both subtlety and big cojones

  • Original amp: single channel 100w head, with switchable "hot" control
  • Cabinet suggestion: V30
  • Original controls: Presence, Bass, Middle, Treble, Gain, Volume
  • Turn down Bass and/or Depth to reduce boominess
  • Original manual
  • Videos
  • Audio
  • User forum
CAROLANN OD2 = CAROLANN OD-2R, OVERDRIVE CHANNEL

Based on the celebrated OD2r from CarolAnn Amplifiers as designed by the highly respected Alan Phillips. Alan fine-tuned the Axe-Fx version himself!

  • Introduced in 9.01, improved in 9.03 (collaberation with the designer of Carol-Ann amps)
  • Cabinet suggestion: EV-12 of something that sounds like a Celestion Lead 80. Alternative: Red Wirez EVM, Ownhammer EVM
  • Quote Alan Phillips: "In the real world the OD2 is very very fussy on speaker choice too. The real world speakers of choice are EVM12L in a 1x12 rear ported and 2x12 with Celestion Classic Lead 80's. I found the 12L emulation did a pretty good job. Some of the others sounded so artificial with that model. Like a rockman. Coupled with the right cab the emulated model does a good job of representing the basic tonal signature of the amp". And: "It's not a competitive model, it's a live demo of an OD2 as tweaked by me. Damn sight better than sound clips for auditioning to guys that haven't got the ability to get to a Dealer. Clearly it doesn't give you the full experience of the full amp, but is a good tonal taster. I repaired a Soldano SLO for him one day and when he came over my house to pick it up we just decided it would be a good idea to put a CA model in there. Having the actual builder involved kind of closes the loop fully. I'm happy to endorse that model because I put a lot of hours testing it and putting together a ton of technical information, fourier analysis graphs, frequency response graphs, schematics etc that would make validation of a mathematical model much easier. In reality even though the power amp and the preamp are modelled the pre-amp got the most effort. As I said in another thread, I tuned that by putting the axe in to the actual power amp of an OD2 and running that side by side with a full OD2. The final tweaks were made like that using parametric eq blocks that were hard coded in to the model. You could call that the icing on the cake and basically put the same level of tuning in to the model as I do with a actual OD2. The only difference was I was using a GUI, not resistors and capacitors."
  • Original controls (overdrive channel): Master, Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble, Presence, Bright switch
  • Audio clips
  • User forum
  • Forum
CITRUS RV50 = ORANGE ROCKERVERB 50, DIRTY CHANNEL

We find that this model, based on the "dirty" channel of the 50W head offers all the warmth, tonal quality and rich harmonics generated by the valve-based original

SHIVER CLN

SHIVA LD

= BOGNER SHIVA: CLEAN CHANNEL / LEAD CHANNEL

SHIVA CLN: Based on the 90 watt anniversary model of this versatile amp, this model does powerful shimmering cleans

SHIVA LD: Based on the lead channel of this amp -- sweet rich sounding with an aggressive English style midrange punch

  • Introduced in 10.00
  • Original controls for Clean channel: Bass/Treble, Volume and Master, Bright switch (less to none effective the higher Drive is set)
  • Original controls for Lead channel: Gain and Master, Bass/Middle/Treble, Presence, Bright switch (less effective the higher Drive is set but still noticeable, off by default)
  • The Boost, Mode and Shift controls on the real amp are not modeled
  • Cabinet suggestion: 4x12 German or V30. Alternative: Red Wirez Bogner, Ownhammer V30
  • If the Shiva Ld sim sounds harsh, try turning up the Master Volume
  • Shiva Ld is quite dark, turn up Presence
  • Sound clips
  • Information
  • Original manual
  • Bogner Amp Forum
1987X MOD = MARSHALL 1987X PLEXI, MODDED (BRIGHT CAP REMOVED)

This model based on the 1987X Plexi features what many consider to be an "essential" mod to the amp's tonestack

  • Original amp: 50w reissue of the 60's Marshall 1959SLP. Part of the Vintage Series
  • Introduced in 10.00
  • Original controls: Bass, Mid, Treble, Presence, Volume
  • Cabinet suggestion: greenbacks (4x12 20w or 25w, 4x12 Green) or G12H30 (4x12 30w). Alternative: Red Wirez Marshall, Ownhammer H75 or M75
  • Cliff: "The 1987X MOD model is based on a 1987X Plexi Reissue with C5 removed (which is the most common mod done to this amp)"
  • Crank the Master volume, use Drive for volume and gain, turn down Bass (or turn up Low Cut), turn up Mid and Treble
  • Thread with suggested settings
  • Original manual
  • Wikipedia
  • MarshallForum
MARSHA BE BE

MARSHA HBE HBE

= MARSHA / FRIEDMAN by Rack Systems: BROWN EYE / HAIRY BROWN EYE

MARSHA BE: The Rack Systems Marsha is a new amp by renowned rig builder/amp modder/designer Dave Friedman. This guy knows tone! Here is the amp's Brown Eye channel

MARSHA HBE: The Marsha's Hairy Brown Eye channel is chock full of even more attitude with some pretty wicked gain on tap

  • Original amp: EL34-based modded Marshall Plexi-style tube amp. Single channel, two voicings
  • Introduced in 10.00
  • The name of the real amp name has been changed from Marsha to Friedman
  • Original controls: Gain and Master, Bass/Middle/Treble, Presence, no Bright
  • Keep the Master low (3.50), experiment with Bright or turn up Presence
  • Cabinet suggestion: greenbacks (4x12 Green, 4x12 20w or 25w), G12H30 (4x12 30w) or something with V30s. Alternative: Red Wire Marshall, Ownhammer H75 or M75
  • Forum
  • Amp information
  • YouTube clip with sample settings