[INFOGRAPHIC] Amp Sims vs. Real Guitar Amps (2024)

Amp Designer (Free with Logic Pro X)

While not technically free for all DAW users, users of Logic Pro X should feel proud to have this plugin in their arsenal.In our survey, we asked what plugin people preferred to use.Amp Designer was mentioned almost as much as AmpliTube, which costs $149Learn more about Amp Designer and Logic Pro here: Apple Logic Pro X

BIAS Amp (Free Version) - We Recommend!

We'll cover this in more detail later, but here's the short...This is the plugin I recommend to most people. And they have a free version.It's a no-brainer.

AmpliTube 4 (Free Version)

If you’re just figuring out what kind of guitar tones you like, this is a great place to start!The free version ofAmplitubecomes with 24 pieces of gear at no cost.Plenty to play around with and figure out what sounds good.

STL Ignite Emissary 2.0 (Free, Fully Featured)

The guitar scientists atIgnite Ampshave built a few free sims that sound terrific.Anyone writing heavier music should definitely check out The Emissary.It’s easy for really distorted guitars to sound flat, but The Emissary breathes plenty of life into recordings.Make sure you download the newest version: Emissary 2.0.With the 2.0 update, the Emissary has gotten a complete tech overhaul. Without getting into the nitty gritty details, it now sounds even livelier than it did before.The tube saturation has also been improved, and you can save and share presets you create.

LePou Plugins(Free, Fully Featured)

Beloved by fans of indie developers, this collection of free simulators packs a punch.

Kuassa Matchlock ($49)

The folks at Kuassa have some great sims under their belt. But their newest one,Matchlock, is absolutely stunning.Matchlock imitates early Fender amps making it perfect for blues lovers looking for a full bodied tone with plenty of bite.

BIAS Amp 2 & FX 2 (Starts at $99) - We Recommend!

My personal favorite!Despite being highly affordable, this plugin is an absolute joy to use – and it sounds great.I initially opted forBIAS FX, which includes a ton of stomp boxes as well as a range of amplifiers and cabs.But if you want the full range of models,grab BIAS Amp 2.This was mentioned A LOT inthe survey, and I have seen this software praised on a range of forums.All in all, a great first purchase.

Blue Cat's Destructor ($99)

Don't let the name fool you, "Destructor" comes with countless creative possibilities.The amp and cab emulations that Blue Cat offers are super high quality. But the "tone map" is even more exciting.The tone map allows you to easily mix and match the sounds of different amps. Can't decide between a twangy clean amp or a crunchy distortion? You can have both.Simply move the tone map's cursor in-between sounds you like and it will combine them.

Destructor's tone map makes homing in on the right sound quick and easy. I highly recommend it for anyone who thinks they'll be working in a variety of styles.

Softube Vintage Amp Room Bundle ($119)

This one’s for the retro tone lovers.The Vintage Amp Room Bundle is based on vintage Marshall, Fender, and Vox amps.Those who love the classic tones of 60’s and 70’s rock hits will want to check out the Vintage Amp Room Bundle.

Scuffham S-Gear ($129)

A lot of people swear byScuffham’s S-Gear. It was even in the top 4 of my survey, and for good reason!The S-Gear is chock full of incredible sounds.With crystal clear clean sounds and crunchy distorted ones, there’s a good chance S-Gear has the amp sound you’re looking for!

Waves PRS SuperModels ($129)

I love Waves, but I wasn’t too impressed with their last amp sim bundle.So I was thrilled when they announced the PRS SuperModels, and I’m happy to say they sound great!Don’t let the fact that there are only 3 amps fool you, you can get a ton of different tones for all sorts of genres out of them.

AmpliTube 4 ($149.99) - We Recommend!

Arguably the most widely-used plugin of the bunch, IK Multimedia were pioneers in this area.AmpliTube 4 is a staple in many studios around the world, and has been used by notable artists like Malcolm Young of AC/DC fame.

Native Instruments Guitar Rig Pro 6 ($199)

I’ll be honest, I’m not personally blown away by the sounds I’ve gotten withGuitar Rig.But with 21 amps and cabinets, and tons of effects to choose from, it certainly offers a lot of variety. Plenty of people love it, so while it’s not for me you may find that you love it!

Overloud THU Full ($300)

This plugin boasts the worlds largest collection of amps, with203 models and over 1000 presets.I like the tones in TH-U a bit more than in Guitar Rig, but I have to say the sheer quantity of options can be a bit overwhelming.But if you’re looking for an amp sim with plenty of options, thisTH-Umight be right for you!

Line 6 Helix Native ($399)

Line 6 is known for making incredible modeling amps and with Helix Native they bring those same tones into the software realm. This is areally powerful program.But I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone who’s just getting started.If you’re new to these plugins you’re better off starting with a free or budget version.If you’ve already got plenty of practice with amp sims and want to take your tones to the next level,Helix Nativecan do some incredible stuff!