IR Loader vs LPF/HPF and EQ

[Zbysek]

I will try to answer OP's quetions:

Can enough EQ get you to the same place as an IR loader?

Edit to add: I mean for cab sim only - not amp sim.

Almost...if you consider HPF and LPF as forms of EQ.

A somewhat related question: Is an LPF/HPF at the end of the chain really necessary when using an IR loader?

No, they are not. LPF/HPF are not neccessary...however they are usualy useful. Their usefullness would be diminished when used in combination with IR based cab simulation. Personally, I prefer LPF/HPF...

Thanks for that Cluster.

I actually have a high pass at the beginning also to prevent subsonic sludge (great band name?) from entering the signal chain.

HPF -> Tuner -> TC Spark -> Compressor -> Octave -> Synth (soon!) -> VMT -> fuzz -> chorus -> Phase 95 -> LPF/HPF -> Q\Strip.

Or, sometimes the last bit is Q\Strip -> LPF/HPF -> JDI. Depends on whether the sound guy wants active DI, passive DI, or just doesn't care.

To my ears, my tone is adequate. Probably better than adequate. Maybe even really good. I can't tell for sure what the house is hearing since I am using IEMs. But there is always the nagging thought: Could my tone be better? What does better sound like? Does better sound like an 8x10? Dunno, but my goal is to send the best signal I can to the board.

Your signal chain looks good to me. I wouldn't bother adding IR cab simulation.

There is a point when adding to the chain makes it more complicated and less "better".

 

[Zbysek]

Anther option: https://www.broughtonaudio.com/product-page/resonant-filter-equalizer

I like mine very much.

I use one too. It serves in "analog cab sim duty" at the end of my signal chain...

 

[Basspaolo]

Wanna do an A/B test between Source Audio EQ pedal and my Nux Cab sim with celestion IRs
Any one can give me the link or a suggestion for a suitable equalization?