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Hunting for the ideal preamp/amp sim
- Thread starter DaveParker39
- Start date
I recently acquired a Broughton SV-Pre and Mini Fridge Cab Sim and they have been game-changing for me when I'm working on bigger stages with little-to-no stage volume. The SV-Pre nails the '70s SVT tone and the cab sim sounds gigantic. I usually mix the cab sim output with a tube DI, often an Acme MTP-66 or Millennia Media TD-1.
I think the Nordstrand Starlifter is a lot of bang for the buck. I have a lot of Pres and DIs including a Noble and many things already mentioned in this thread, and I don’t understand why the Starlifter doesn’t have a bigger following.
I guess it’s not ideal for your use case. You’d probably want a dedicated OD pedal in front of it.
I guess it’s not ideal for your use case. You’d probably want a dedicated OD pedal in front of it.
I'm also considering using this type of rig. Catalinbread makes some good preamps based on JFET drive, and that's what I'd pick save for real valves (such as Synergy). There's also DIY options that replicates Catalinbreads, but at this point of my life I'd rather buy a pre-built pedal for convenience and reliability. For an Ampeg vibe I'd pick the SFT.
Currently I use digital Hotone preamps, and found that I mainly prefer the Marshall, Ampeg, Hiwatt, Aguilar, Fender, and Darkglass models (roughly in that order). Other models I'm considering (I tried on NAM) include GK Plex and Tech 21 PSA, but they don't sound like the Ampeg-style sound that the OP seems to be looking for.
Currently I use digital Hotone preamps, and found that I mainly prefer the Marshall, Ampeg, Hiwatt, Aguilar, Fender, and Darkglass models (roughly in that order). Other models I'm considering (I tried on NAM) include GK Plex and Tech 21 PSA, but they don't sound like the Ampeg-style sound that the OP seems to be looking for.
To me the GK Plex is too versatile to not consider. Especially on the amp sims 2 or 3 setting it goes from very neutral to warmer bigger bottom end fast. The frequency shifts for each of the EQ knobs make it very customizable. If the OP wants the ampeg sound he can get the SCRdi and have it right there. I own both pedals and I can make the Plex sound close to the ampeg with the right settings but the ampeg is very straightforward in it'll sound like it does and you can either take it or leave it. I found settings I like but it's definitely ampeg no matter what you do. Exactly what I wanted out of that pedal actually. The Plex is more of a mold to fit almost anything setup. The non sim and the setting 1 are absolutely the most GK sounding to my ears. The others are definitely more easily confused with other big name amps. I think the setting 4 can sound a bit like a markbass even though it's another GK amp sim. But that's what's cool about it. Almost too much in that pedal to where you'll never get through all of it.
No experience with them, but the sansamp xb driver might work. That or the Sansamp deluxe version can give you different presets for more drive.
I have an Aguilar ToneHammer, and it’s probably the most amp like pedal I’ve tried yet even though it technically doesn’t have a cab sim, the AGS really gets you there. Only downside is you can’t really switch between the channels mid song.
I have an Aguilar ToneHammer, and it’s probably the most amp like pedal I’ve tried yet even though it technically doesn’t have a cab sim, the AGS really gets you there. Only downside is you can’t really switch between the channels mid song.
My JHS Punchline checks every single box except for "loadable IRs", and you might be able to find one for around that price? maybe
It has a nice analog amp sim, and a good compressor too.
IR is only one way of doing it… if the amp sim includes good enough speaker simulation it’s all good!
I have a Two Notes Opus. I would say it needs a midi foot controller, something like a morningstar mc6 pro to be useable in a live setting. That would be a killer small rig though, but then the price goes over the budget of usd500. Morningstar has a video on this setup.
I heard they are releasing a MC4 Pro this month. I would pair that with the Opus and a expression pedal and mount that on a mini board if the budget allows.
I heard they are releasing a MC4 Pro this month. I would pair that with the Opus and a expression pedal and mount that on a mini board if the budget allows.
That's for changing the presets live, but how do you adjust the parameters? Is it OK with so few knobs, or do you use a smartphone/tablet app…?
Check out the vid. You can map parameter changes to the expression pedal. So a big controller like the mc8pro could have bank up and down, base tone present and then parameters mapped to the expression pedal. Not sure how practical it would be live, but it's doable.
Thanks.
My question was more about changing the settings quickly (EQ settings, etc.) during a rehearsal or a soundcheck, moments when you'd need several knobs. For example, you've made your presets at home with the editor (I suppose), and once you are in a rehearsal, you'd like to adjust quickly the EQ settings. Do you dive into menus and change each parameter one by one, or is there a smartphone app or anything?
There is a very good ipad app. I assume there is a mobile app as well. The ipad app has all the controls laid out In one screen and you could very quickly change it. It connects via Bluetooth as well so no wires.
Hi! I hope this is the right thread and a "input" 
for @DaveParker39 ...experience with a tech21 vt bass pre into a GK 700rb II? Anyone? Just want to experiment, thanks!
for @DaveParker39 ...experience with a tech21 vt bass pre into a GK 700rb II? Anyone? Just want to experiment, thanks!
