I’m sure you don’t need me to tell you why amp simulators are the best option for most guitarists, but here it is: these amp simulation plugins make the most iconic, expensive, delicate and cumbersome guitar amplifiers portable and affordable.

They’ve made recording an album a walk in the park, and given bedroom producers and guitarists of all levels a sonic palette only big recording studios could offer back in the day.

The best guitar amp simulators out there, and which one you should choose based on your budget and needs, is the topic of today's article. You'll also find a short buyer's guide at the end of the piece to help you make a conscious decision when buying the guitar amp simulator that'll unlock your guitar-hero superpowers.

Amp Simulation: A Definition

Before we get started, it might be useful to discuss what amp simulation actually is.

Amp simulation, sometimes called amp modeling or amp emulation, is the process of digitally replicating the sound and behavior of a traditional amplifier using software or digital signal processing (DSP) technology.

This technology is what makes it possible to recreate the distinctive tones of vintage amplifiers, speaker cabinets, and effects pedals within a digital audio workstation (DAW). In other words, it's the technology that defines modern music production.

Amp simulation software can recreate amplifiers, speaker cabinets, microphone models, and effects pedals, allowing users to mix and match components as if they were in a high-end recording studio. And they can do this all through a DAW.

Recreating the analog sound of vintage gear has always been a difficult task for virtual instruments. Over the years, advanced algorithms and modeling techniques have evolved to copy the sonic characteristics of guitar amplifiers, and nowadays, it's common practice to use amp plugins for rehearsals, recordings, and even live performances.

Their versatility, affordability, and endless customization options made amp sims a crucial element of modern music production. They're used by professional recording studios and bedroom music producers alike, as they cost a fraction of their hardware counterparts, they don't require maintenance, and you can carry them with you anywhere.

Best Guitar Amp Sim Plugins

1. Neural DSP Tone King Imperial MKII

• Amp type : Algorithmic modeler
• Compatibility : Windows, macOS (VST, AU, AAX)
• Price : $105

With a phenomenal clean sound and high-quality classic tones, the Neural DSP Tone King Imperial MKII Suite is by far my favorite amp sim these days.

It comes with two channels, Rhythm and Lead, the latter of which can bring to life a warmth and immersive sound that’ll impress even the most demanding metalhead. It also features an emulated Ironman II Reactive Attenuator to play around with tonal variations, plus an HF Comp switch to enhance high frequencies while using the attenuator.

If that wasn’t enough, the Neural DSP Tone King Imperial MKII has three stompbox-style pre-effects, a 9-band EQ, BBD-style chorus, immersive Delay and Reverb post-effects, and a versatile cab-sim module with literally hundreds of IRs. The amount of different sounds you can craft is impressive, and considering you can get it for a little over $100, I personally consider the Neural DSP Tone King Imperial the best value for money out there.

This is an all-in-one solution for guitarists of all levels, from those crafting their first signature sound to those performing on stage every night.

Pros:

• Exceptional clean tones.
• A wide sound palette ranging from vintage to modern.
• Great value for money.
• High-quality attenuator.

Cons:

• Not the most intuitive amp simulator.
• There's no built-in looper.

2. Positive Grid Bias FX 2 Elite

• Amp type : Hybrid Amp
• Compatibility : Windows, macOS (VST, AU, AAX)
• Price : $299

The Positive Grid BIAS FX 2 Elite might not be the most user-friendly amp simulator, but it’s definitely one of the most powerful. With 100 amps, over 100 effects, and 18 rack processor models, rest assured you can create a signature sound unlike any other!

What makes it stand out is its Guitar Match technology, which essentially allows you to tweak the core sonic characteristics of your instrument or even change the guitar altogether. You can swap between a Les Paul and a Strat in seconds, and all after you recorded the whole thing. This can take your composition process to a whole new level and allow you to change your guitar tone whenever the inspiration strikes.

The built-in looper/recorder is a great addition that allows you to record and export ideas, and you can prepare professional live sets thanks to the useful MIDI control, a dual signal path design, and four user-programmable Scenes to switch effects on the go.

Finally, the BIAS FX 2 Elite allows you to create your own hybrid amp by blending the characteristics of two separate amplifiers, or use two separate amps simultaneously for an immersive stereo effect.

  Pros:

• Huge variety of effects and amps library.
• Guitar Match technology.
• Professional MIDI control for live performances.

Cons:

• Steep learning curve.
• High CPU usage.
• Expensive.

3. Softube Amp Room Marshall Suite

• Amp type : Officially licensed Marshall amp sim
• Compatibility : Windows, macOS (VST, AU, AAX)
• Price : $149

Those who love the iconic Marshall sound should look no further than the Softube Amp Room Marshall Suite. Here you’ll find them all: the Plexi, Silver Jubilee, Bluesbreaker, and many more. And oh boy, each one of them sounds like the real amp.

The Suite includes five classic Marshall amps, ten pedals and stompboxes, and a selection of studio FX plug-ins, plus a wide assortment of cabs and microphone options to further customize your tone. It also features cabinet IR captures and a parametric equalizer that gives you the ultimate tone-shaping control.

The Marshall Cabinet Collection gives you access to a fantastic set of eight cabs with diverse mic options for each. If that wasn’t enough, the Amp Room Marshall Suite includes both the Guitar & Bass Platform, all for $149.

If you’re a Marshall fan looking for an all-in-one solution for your home productions and live performances, the Softube Amp Room Marshall Suite is a solid and reasonably-priced option.

  Pros:

• Great for Marshall enthusiasts.
• Professional cabs and mics selection.
• Reasonably priced.

Cons:

• Limited to Marshall sounds.
• Not many built-in effects.
• Large cabinet IRs take up space.

4. IK Multimedia AmpliTube 5 Max

• Amp type : All-in-one plugin and standalone DAW
• Compatibility : Windows, macOS (VST, AU, AAX)
• Price : $99.99

For years, IK Multimedia’s AmpliTube 5 Max has been one of the most iconic amp simulators, and for all the right reasons: whether you're crafting a guitar tone using the official models from Fender, Orange, or Mesa/Boogie, rest assured that each amp model will sound as close to the authentic one as it can be.

With over 400 amps and effects to choose from, including some carefully crafted artist signature sounds, you'll be able to create your unique tone from day one. The new, advanced mixer function allows you to combine different effects and mics to create the perfect recording environment in your DAW.

AmpliTube 5 Max's latest edition also comes with 100 brand-new cabinets, which, combined with everything else already there, makes it one of the most comprehensive amp sims available. I could imagine this abundance being overwhelming for those who just started playing. However, if you're serious about your guitar playing, the IK Multimedia AmpliTube 5 Max might well be a solution that'll keep you motivated and engaged for years.

  Pros:

• Massive amp and effects library
• The artists' tone collections are excellent
• Advanced technology
• All-in-one DAW and amp sim

Cons:

• Complex interface
• Takes plenty of space

5. Native Instruments Guitar Rig 7

• Amp type : Circuit modeling distortion preset
• Compatibility : Windows, macOS (VST, AU, AAX)
• Price : $199

Twenty years on, NI's Guitar Rig is still one of the most sought-after amp sims in the market, all thanks to a user-friendly interface and top-notch machine-learning technology that delivers the killer tones of real amps. With over 100 new rack presets and the ability to mix and match modules, you’ll have the power of a professional recording studio at your fingertips.

What I love the most about Guitar Rig is how realistic the amps, heads, and effects sound, so if you’re looking for an analog-like feel, this suite won’t disappoint. Plus, you can apply any of the new lo-fi effects included to other instruments, too, giving you more options to sculpt unique sounds.

With a streamlined workflow and the possibility to visualize and modify the effects chain in seconds, Guitar Rig 7 is a fantastic option for anyone entering the world of amp simulation.

  Pros:

• Highly customizable rack presets
• User-friendly interface
• New lo-fi effects can be used with any instrument

Cons:

• None

6.  Waves GTR 3

• Amp type : Affordable simulator with lots of classic amps
• Compatibility : Windows, macOS (VST, AU, AAX)
• Price : $29.99

It’s not uncommon for software with the ugliest interface to also offer the best value for money, and Waves GTR 3 is the undisputed ugly duckling of amp simulators!

Despite costing less than most single plugins, the GTR 3 offers a lot of amp models and effects to work with. It’s divided into four parts (GTR 3 Amps, GTR 3 Stomps, GTR 3 ToolRack, and GTR 3 Tuner), and comes with 30 guitar amplifiers (7 for bass guitar), 30 custom cabinets, 25 stomps, and top studio mics with 12 miking options.

The effects leave nothing to be desired when compared with more expensive suites. I’m most familiar with the reverb and delay plugins featured in the bundle, and I think they’re both exceptionally articulate. You can run amps in stereo or mono, further expanding your soundscape with an immersive sound.

While basic in terms of interface and customization options, the GTR 3 is a practical, no-nonsense amp simulator that'll save you plenty of cash.

  Pros:

• Very affordable.
• Simple and easy to use.
• Solid reverb and delay effects.
• Lightweight on CPU.

Cons:

• Outdated user interface.
• Limited tonal variety.
• Basic customization options.

7. Blue Cat's Axiom

• Amp type : Amp and multi-effects processor
• Compatibility : Windows, macOS (VST, AU, AAX)
• Price : $199

Blue Cat's Axiom is an often-neglected amp sim that offers plenty of sounds and impressive customization options.

In fact, you can personalize your signal in ways no other amp sim can do (as far as I know), as it allows you to add plugins and effects every step of the way, from the input to the pre-amp pedalboard and the output.

The amp simulations feel realistic and analog-like, with over 100 professional built-in effects to choose from and seamless integration with third-party plugins.

Axiom also features a built-in tuner, a MIDI-controllable looper, and global stereo spread control. The price might be high, but if you’re looking for total control over your signal, Blue Cat's Axiom is one of your best bets.

Pros:

• The best signal chain customization available.
• High-quality built-in effects.
• Realistic analog amp feel.
• It comes with MIDI control and looper.

Cons:

• It might be overwhelming for beginners.

8. Line 6 Helix Native

·         Amp type : Comprehensive amp, cab, and effects modeling

·         Compatibility : Windows, macOS (VST, AU, AAX)

·         Price : $399

You’ll be spoiled for choices as soon as you download the excellent Line 6 Helix Native, with its 60+ electric guitar and bass amplifier models, 100+ effects, and 30+ speaker cabinet models.

The HX modeling engine offers an ultra-realistic sound, and once you choose the effects you need, the workflow becomes quite straightforward. I like the fact the amp sim is seamlessly compatible with Helix hardware, making it simple to take ideas sketched out at home to the rehearsal and then the recording studio.

All in all, this is an outstanding amp sim whose only downside is the price. For instance, Guitar Rig 7, which costs about half of the Line 6, offers more modulation options and has a more intuitive interface. That said, if your budget allows it, Line 6 Helix Native is an amp sim you can use anywhere: whether at home, in the studio, or live, it’ll sound realistic and professional.

  Pros:

• Great selection of amps and effects.
• Realistic HX modeling technology.
• Line's hardware-software integration is top-notch.
• Intuitive and user-friendly.

Cons:

• Very expensive.
• High CPU demand.
• Competitors offer more for less.

Buyer’s Guide

Now that you're familiar with the best amp sim models in the market, it's time to discuss how and why you should choose one instead of another. If you've done a bit of research, you probably know the market is oversaturated with options across price ranges: whether your budget is $100, $200, or $300, you'll probably find a dozen amp simulators that'd work for you. So how do you choose one?

Here's a little guide to help you narrow down your search for the best amp simulator.

Compatibility

The majority of amp simulators are compatible with all the most popular OS and DAWs, but double-checking before pressing the “buy” button is good practice.

All the amp simulators mentioned above are available in VST, AU, or AAX formats. However, especially if you’re buying from independent producers, you might end up with something that sounds great but has limited compatibility.

The problem usually occurs when buying old simulators or ones produced independently, which leads me to another important factor: future updates.

Big companies like IK Multimedia or Native Instruments update their plugins and add new features regularly. This means that you can expect improvements, long-term support, and a plugin that'll last for years (though you might have to pay for the upgrade).

Small developers can't offer any of that, which doesn't mean you shouldn't support them, but it's definitely something you should keep in mind.

Size and Storage

Large plugins take up a lot of hard drive space. This will impact your computer’s performance, and when you’re on stage, the last thing you want is latency when switching effects on.

Both AmpliTube 5 Max and Positive Grid Bias FX 2 Elite come with huge libraries that require space and CPU power (more on that later). On the other hand, Waves GTR 3 is lighter and easier to run, but it comes with fewer modulation options.

Optimizing your computer for music production and live performance should be your top priority. However, it's also extremely hard to turn an affordable laptop into a professional and portable recording studio. Choose your hardware and software carefully, and make sure they match perfectly.

Presets, Effects, Customization options

Presets are a great starting point when you want to sculpt your sound signature. Guitar Rig and Bias FX 2 offer hundreds of presets, which makes them great for guitarists looking to get started right away with a great-sounding amp.

These presets are usually designed with the help of worldwide-known musicians, so you can achieve the great tones you’re after right out of the box. However, if you’re a musician with a more hands-on approach, you might be more interested in building your sound from scratch.

Similarly, you probably won't need dozens of effects to record your music or perform live, but it's nice to know you can place them in your virtual pedalboard at a moment's notice.

All the amp sims mentioned above offer exceptional customization options when it comes to personalizing your setup. Some give you full control over the signal chain, like the Blue Cat's Axiom, while others have countless effects, like the Helix Native.

There's no one-size-fits-all here, so all you can do is make the most of the free version some of these plugins offer and test them out until you find a perfect match for your budget and needs.

Genre-Specific Guitar Amps

There are a lot of amp simulators designed for specific genres, from metal to jazz and anything in between. The easiest way to get the perfect sound for your needs is to get one of those amp sims, as they’re developed with the type of genre you play in mind.

That doesn’t mean you need a metal-oriented amp sim to play the genre; it's just that its presets and the library will make it easier to create the appropriate sound. It’s always worth checking whether your favorite guitarist was involved in the development of an amp simulator!

CPU Consumption

There’s no way around it: the best amp simulators put your computer’s processing power to the test, especially if you’re running long signal chains. If you’re using an old or affordable computer, I’d recommend you go for a lightweight option (like the GTR 3), rather than risking having your computer freezing every second take.

It won't take long to realize you'll need a dedicated computer for music production. While VST plugins are becoming more and more efficient, the endless sonic possibilities they offer encourage guitarists to explore the full potential of these amp sims.

Seamless compatibility between the DAW and plugin is paramount, so if you see that your projects keep crashing, do research in forums or contact the manufacturers directly to confirm they should work well together.

Price

We live in a beautiful time when you can get tons of things for free, and music production tools are no exception. There are plenty of inexpensive or even free amp simulators, and these might offer enough features to fully satisfy your needs.

Usually, the higher the price, the more customization options and effects you get. If you’re just getting started, you might need just amps and effects to practice and record your ideas. If you’re a guitar hero like Jakub Zytecki, who recorded and self-produced his latest album, you probably need tons of effects, pedals, and customization options for your virtual amps.

It's always good practice to start small and see how much you actually need before making a big investment. As I said earlier, Waves GTR 3 is a great and budget-friendly amp sim, and while it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of the Helix Native, it might offer enough features for your needs.

Final Thoughts

I hope this article helped you find the best amp plugins for your guitar needs. In all honesty, I think all the guitar sims on this list are exceptional and will suit your needs, so long as you’re willing to explore their potential fully.

My final recommendation to you is to start small and make the most of every free version you can find. While the interfaces offered by modern amp sims are very similar, each plugin comes with its own workflow and learning curve.

Watch tutorials on YouTube where other guitar players run amp simulator plugins using your DAW or OS, and confirm on Reddit or dedicated forums that your new amp sim will work with your existing setup. It's crucial that you get an amp sim whose CPU consumption is within your hardware’s limits. Aside from that, just get any of the VST plugins above, and have fun.

Finally, don't get overwhelmed by the abundance of effects and customization options. Sometimes, all you need are a couple of good effects and the right amp to bring to life the perfect tune. Don't focus too much on sculpting your sound, but rather make sure that your song has a melody that makes it unforgettable.

Good luck!