Choosing a Modeler/FRFR

A Modeler's main function is to emulate analog amplifiers; however, they typically also provide a number of other features, such as speaker/mic emulation, a wide range of simultaneous effects, MIDI send/receive, and configurable signal routing. Some are also in a foot controller form factor, allowing control of not only that device but others via MIDI. This means modelers can take a number of roles, serving as all-in-one processors or integrating with other gear. This can make them extremely complicated in some cases, requiring lots of attention to detail and effort to make it work for you. How you plan to use the modeler, how much time you have to learn and tweak it, budget, and quality are the prime considerations to make.

Understanding Modelers

Modelers operate digitally, using digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms (usually on dedicated processor chips designed for DSP).

Major Brands/Models

Avid - 11r (Eleven Rack)

The 11r marks Avid's first venture into the modeler market. Despite being recognized for quality tone and ease of use, it has become a relatively undesirable piece of gear. The main complaint is that Avid has stopped supporting it, no longer providing updates and fixes. Also, it will only interface to a computer through Pro-Tools for patch editing and saving, which many users find to be a hassle.

Digitech - RP, GSP 1101

Fractal Audio Systems - Axe FX

Kemper - Kemper Profiling Amplifier

LePou - Various VST's

LePou is a programmer who has designed a number of VST plugins that model real world amplifiers. While the quality and interface deserves praise, the caveat is that it requires a system capable of hosting a VST to use. This makes it nice in the studio but more difficult to take to gigs or rehearsal...or even move around the house. LePou also provided an IR loader called LeCab2, capable of loading 2 simulataneous IR's.

Line 6 - Pod

Line 6 is a big name in modeling with the Pod being the first mass-market modeling success. It has since expanded its Pod line and most of its products use the modeling algorithms found in the various Pod products. The Pod is currently on its 4th generation, with each generation featuring different "engine" as the modeling algorithms change to take advantage of more powerful hardware. Each generation also has several form factors.

Positive Grid - Bias

Zoom - G

FRFR

Modelers usually include cab/mic emulation. Guitar speakers/cabinets typically roll-off the more extreme high-end frequencies, focusing on midrange. Using cab/mic emulation is great for home recording, removing the need to mic a cabinet. It also removes the need to crank a guitar amp, so you can play/record in low-volume situations. Unlike guitar speakers, most speakers, especially pro audio (PA, studio monitors) are designed to be full-frequency flat-response (FRFR), meaning they output all frequencies without boosting or diminishing any of them in relation to the input signal they receive. FRFR has become a kind of buzz-word, with many debating just how FRFR an "FRFR" speaker/monitor is. Regardless, using a modeler with cab/mic simulation into an FRFR speaker should get you a tone similar to a real guitar amp/cab rig.