How to Choose an Amp Modeler for Your Guitar Rig
Even the most adamant fans of analog guitar gear can agree that amp modelers and cab sims have come a long way over the last few decades. Modern amp modelers can deliver studio-quality amp tones with the responsiveness and touch sensitivity that players need, direct to a recording device or sound system with no amplifier or effects pedals required. So how do you choose an amp modeler that gives you the sounds and features you need, without overwhelming you with lots of things you don’t need? Let’s dig in!
Why Choose an Amp Modeler?
Amp modelers are often seen as all-in-one solutions for electric guitarists, and that’s partly true. A fully featured amp modeler will effectively replace your effects pedalboard, guitar amplifier, and even recording interface. Just one instrument cable connects your guitar, while a balanced cable or two connects to a loudspeaker or sound system, giving you everything you need.
Even if you don’t want to replace your entire signal chain with an amp modeler, it can still enhance individual sections of your rig. Combine your carefully crafted effects pedalboard with the amps and cabs from your modeler. Or use your amp modeler to replace your pedalboard while leaving the amp and cab simulations off so you can plug into your favorite amplifier. Amp modelers are also excellent tools for re-amping guitar tracks and even software instruments.
Even if you only use a fraction of what an amp modeler offers, it can still improve your workflow. The key is choosing one that emphasizes the features you actually need—whether that's more amp models, specific effects, or advanced connectivity—without paying for features you'll never use.
| Amps/Cabs/FX | 7 amps / 7 cabs / 16 FX |
|---|---|
| Analog I/O | 1 x in, 2 x out, Headphone |
| Digital I/O | USB-C |
| Control Types | Knobs, 2 x Footswitches |
| External Control Inputs | 1 x 1/4 Exp/Switch |
| Size | 5.1" x 3.6" x 2.2" |
Number and Type of Amp and Cab Models
In the early days of amp modelers, manufacturers competed to offer the highest number of amplifier and cabinet emulations. While some players genuinely need a huge selection—such as cover band guitarists, session musicians, and composers—many players really only need one or two great amp sounds.
Modern amp modelers now cover every type of player, from compact units with just a handful of premium amp models to full-featured floorboards with hundreds of options.
When choosing an amp modeler, pay attention not only to the number of amp and cabinet models available, but also to the specific types included. Most modelers cover classic American and British amplifiers, but if you're chasing something more specific—such as a particular high-gain amplifier or a Dumble-style model—that should take priority over sheer quantity.
| Amps/Cabs/FX | 1 amp / 1 cab / 1 FX |
|---|---|
| Analog I/O | 1 x In, 2 x Out, Headphone |
| Digital I/O | USB (firmware updates only) |
| Control Types | Knobs, 2 x Footswitches |
| External Control Inputs | n/a |
| Size | 5.4" x 4.5" x 2" |
| Amps/Cabs/FX | 3 amps / 9 cabs / IR Import |
|---|---|
| Analog I/O | 1 x In, 2 x Out, Headphone |
| Digital I/O | USB |
| Control Types | Knobs, 2 x Footswitches |
| External Control Inputs | 1 x 1/4" Exp/MIDI |
| Size | 4.5" x 4" x 1.75" |
The Ins and Outs of Amp Modelers
The connections you need depend entirely on how you plan to use your amp modeler.
If you're practicing at home or recording, a headphone output is essential for silent sessions. If you're performing through a full-range speaker or PA system, balanced line outputs become important. Players integrating traditional pedals should also look for effects send and return loops.
Think about your most common applications before making your decision. You may never use every connection available, but it's far better to have options than discover you're missing an important feature later.
| Amps/Cabs/FX | 11 x amps / 11 IRs / 1 FX |
|---|---|
| Analog I/O | 1 In, Send/Return, 2 x Out, Headphone |
| Digital I/O | USB |
| Control Types | Knobs, 1 x Footswitch |
| External Control Inputs | 1 x 1/4" Ch Switch |
| Size | 5.1" x 2.9" 2.3" |
Interacting with Your Amp Modeler's Controls
Amp modelers range from incredibly simple interfaces to massive multi-switch floorboards.
If your music requires switching amp channels or activating multiple effects throughout a song, you'll want plenty of footswitches. If you regularly use wah or volume swells, consider a model with a built-in expression pedal.
Keep in mind that many compact modelers support external footswitches and expression pedals. A small unit that appears limited may actually expand into a much more capable rig when paired with external controllers.
| Amps/Cabs/FX | 93 amps, 68 cabs, IR import, 483 FX |
|---|---|
| Analog I/O | 2 x In, Send/Return, 4 x Out, Aux, Headphone |
| Digital I/O | USB, MIDI |
| Control Types | 3 x Rotary Encoders, 8 x Footswitches |
| External Control Inputs | 2 x Exp/Ctrl |
| Size | 11.9" x 7.1" x 2.3" |
| Amps/Cabs/FX | 63 amps / 61 cabs / IR Import / 93+ FX |
|---|---|
| Analog I/O | 1 x In, Send/Return, 4 x Out, Aux, Headphone |
| Digital I/O | USB, MIDI |
| Control Types | 3 x Rotary Encoders, 6 x Footswitches |
| External Control Inputs | 1 x 1/4" Exp/Switch |
| Size | 14.7" x 7.8" 2.8" |
How Do You Want to Build Your Custom Tones?
Some players love reaching down and adjusting physical knobs just like a traditional amplifier.
Others prefer creating presets with desktop software or mobile apps, then simply recalling those sounds during performance.
Whichever workflow you prefer, make sure your amp modeler allows you to make quick adjustments when necessary. Every venue sounds different, so being able to quickly tweak EQ or effects without digging through complicated menus is an important consideration for live players.
| Amps/Cabs/FX | 50+ amps / 1,000+ IRs / 70+ FX |
|---|---|
| Analog I/O | 2 x in, 2 x Send/Return, 4 x Out, Headphone |
| Digital I/O | USB, MIDI |
| Control Types | 11 x Dual-function Rotary Switches |
| External Control Inputs | 2 x 1/4" Exp |
| Size | 11.4" x 7.0" x 2.0" |
Are You Using Your Amp Modeler for Re-Amping DAW Tracks?
Re-amping allows you to send a dry guitar recording from your DAW through amps, effects, or processors, then record the processed sound back into your project.
Modern amp modelers make this process much easier by eliminating the need for physical amplifiers and microphones. They're also excellent for processing synthesizers, drum machines, and other virtual instruments.
If re-amping is important to you, pay close attention to your recording workflow. Some amp modelers include built-in USB audio interfaces specifically designed for re-amping, while others rely on additional analog inputs and outputs to integrate with your existing audio interface.
| Amps/Cabs/FX | AI amps, IR import, 9 FX, 20 Presets |
|---|---|
| Analog I/O | 1 x In, 1 x Out |
| Digital I/O | USB (software editor) |
| Control Types | Knob, 1 Footswitch |
| External Control Inputs | n/a |
| Size | 3.7" x 2.1" 1.9" |
Find more in-depth info on amp modelers in our Amp Modeler Buying Guide!
