By: Matthew Warnock
I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical when I first started to check out the Amplitube App and iRig attachment for the iPad (also available for the iPod and iPhone). As someone that grew up in a day and age when if you wanted a new amp sound, you bought a new amp, and the best effects were single pedals or the occasional multi-effects unit that beat expectation.
But, these ideas and concepts have changed drastically in recent years, and the Amplitube App has been leading the way. Featuring tons of different amp models and more pedals and effects than you could ever use, all for less than a ¼ of the price of one effects pedal, Amplitube is providing guitarists with a plethora of options to fit any and all effects and amp modeling needs.
The App comes in two parts, the digital App itself, which can be downloaded from the iTunes App Store, and the physical iRig, which is used to connect the iPad, iPhone or iPod to earphones or external speaker system. If you do attach the iRig to an amplifier or PA system, make sure to read the instructions first.
Using a 1/8 to 1/4 adapter won’t work, and will cause massive feedback believe me, so follow the instructions to use a stereo adaptor or RCA adaptor when running out to an external amp or speaker system. Aside from this, no adapter is needed to plug the iRig into computer speakers, earphones or any other device that can handle an 1/8 inch jack direct input.
iRig and Amplitube App for iPad and iPhone
The choices that Amplitube provides covers just about everything that a modern guitarist would need on a gig, in the practice room or in the recording studio. These amps and effects include:
Effect Pedals:
Amps To Choose From:
Guitarists can also choose different mic models, mix and match effects pedals and even record with the Amplitube App. For those guitarists that want to expand their option, the following add-ons are available for purchase at $2.99 apiece.
And the following for .99 each:
As well as amp add-ons for $1.99
And more through the “Add Gear” button at the bottom of the App.
Besides offering plenty of effects and amp options, what surprised me the most was the sound quality of each of these effects and amps. Each one sounded great, were easy to program and combine with other effects, and the sound quality remained true to form through earphones, computer speakers and my guitar amp.
Though effects pedals and physical amps are still going strong, and most guitarists will want to keep them in their collections, the Amplitube App provides a viable, affordable and great sounding option for when you don’t want to lug around all your gear. By keeping the price down, providing high-quality workmanship and myriad options, the Amplitube App is a must-have for any guitarist that uses an iPod, iPad or iPhone.
