Amps Or Modelers

As a metal guitar player that goes to way too many shows, I want to have a talk about the state of guitar gear for the local musician. The past decade has brought a huge change to the guitar landscape for live music. Floor modelers such as the Line 6 Helix and NeuralDSP Quad Cortex have been gaining popularity with many players, as they are way lighter than your typical tube amplifier head. While both real amps and modelers are both valid options, I would like to present some insight on what I have noticed so far.

Modelers

• Modelers can be used at any venue, but you may need to bring your own monitor solutions. This is because some venues may not have a stage monitor system for the band, so it would be worth investing in a wedge speaker like those from Headrush, if you go this route and play a lot of clubs.

• Modelers excel for venues that have a substantial PA system. Locally I have seen Helix units used at venues such as The Black Sheep and What’s Left records, as those venues have quality PA systems.

• It can be a good way to control having multiple different sounds using a modeler, if you like having more than one sound.

Real Amps

• Real amps just work 99% of the time. Just load them in and set your levels.

• You can get one really solid sound out of a quality tube amp. A 6505 / 5150 was used by most 2000’s metalcore bands for example. 

• There are also some really good solid state heads, such as the Orange Super Crush.

• Tube amps can blow up on stage. I went to a show where the headliner’s amp exploded. This is something to consider; so keep an eye on your equipment.

• Real amps and cabs are heavy. It could be worth considering having a “house cab” for the night, and having bands plug their amp heads into the house cab. I have seen some bigger local gigs load in and out much faster that way.

There is no wrong way to do it. Personally, I prefer bringing a combo tube amp. That way I have control over the situation; regardless of what the PA and Monitor system looks like at the gig. You can always mic up or plug into an interface; so don’t fret.