amplitube x-gear user manual
TRANSCRIPT
User Manual
EXPANDABLE GUITAR EFFECTS & AMP RIG
AmpliTube X-GEAR
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P L E A S E N O T E
AmpliTube® and X-GEAR™ are trademarks property of IK MultimediaProduction Srl. All other product names and trademarks are property oftheir respectiveowners,whichare innowayassociatedoraffiliatedwith IKMultimedia.ProductnamesareusedsolelyforthepurposeofidentifyingthespecificproductsthatwerestudiedduringIKMultimedia’ssoundmodeldevel-opmentandfordescribingcertaintypesoftonesproducedwithIKMultimedia’sdigitalmodelingtechnology.Useofthesenamesdonotimplyanycooperation
orendorsement.
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AmpliTube X-GEAR
I - Contents �
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Table of Contents
I Contents pag.�
II Interface pag.6
III License Agreement pag.8
Chapter 1 AmpliTube X-GEAR Overview pag.�� �.� Introduction pag.�� �.� DSMTechnology pag.�� �.� BlockDiagram pag.�� �.4 Plug-inArchitecture pag.�� �.5 UsingtheInterface pag.�4
Chapter 2 Getting started with AmpliTube X-GEAR pag.�9 �.� AmpliTubeX-GEARandStompIORegistration/Authorization pag.�9 �.� StandaloneMode pag.�0 �.�.� LaunchAmpliTubeX-GEARStandalone pag.�0 �.�.� WindowsAudioConfiguration pag.�� �.�.� MacintoshAudioConfiguration pag.�� �.�.4 SpeedTrainer pag.�4 �.�.5 LoopTrimming pag.�5 �.�.6 WaveformDisplay pag.�6 �.�.7 TempoandPitchAdjustment pag.�6 �.�.8 ValuesIndication pag.�7 �.�.9 PeakMeter pag.�7 �.�.�0 Metronome pag.�7 �.�.�� StatusBar pag.�8 �.�.�� AutoStart-Up pag.�9 �.� Plug-inMode pag.�9 �.�.� StartingAmpliTubeX-GEARinyourhostapplication pag.�9 �.�.�.� ProTools pag.�9 �.�.�.� DigitalPerformer pag.�0 �.�.�.� Logic pag.�0 �.�.�.4 Cubase pag.�0 �.�.�.5 Nuendo pag.�� �.�.�.6 Live pag.�� �.�.�.7 GarageBand pag.�� �.�.�.8 Sonar pag.�� �.�.�.9 Acid pag.�� �.�.�.�0 Tracktion pag.�� �.�.�.�� RiffWorksStandard pag.�� �.4 Hands-OnExamples pag.�� �.4.� SelectingAmps pag.�� �.4.� ChoosingtheCabinet pag.�4 �.4.� AddingEffects pag.�5
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AmpliTube X-GEAR
I - Contents
Chapter 3 Input/Output Interface pag.�7 �.� I/OInterface pag.�7 �.� ConnectingYourGuitarandAdjustingYourLevels pag.�7 �.� SelectedModulePanandVolume pag.�8 �.4 Phase pag.�8 �.5 Mix pag.�8 �.6 UsingNoiseGate pag.�9 �.7 Tune pag.�9 �.8 SelectedParameterDisplay pag.�9 �.9 Preferences pag.40 �.�0 Information(“I”) pag.4� �.�� Lock pag.4�
Chapter 4 Module Selector pag.45 4.� DualSignalPaths pag.45 4.� SelectingModules pag.46
Chapter 5 Preset Manager pag.47 5.� LoadingPresets pag.47 5.� OtherControls pag.48 5.� SavingaPreset pag.49
Chapter 6 AmpliTube X-GEAR Modules pag.5� 6.� TUNERModule pag.5� 6.� STOMPModule(StompEffects) pag.5� 6.� AMPModule(AmpHead) pag.56 6.�.� Introduction pag.56 6.�.� ModelComponents pag.57 6.4 CABModule(Cabinets+Microphones) pag.59 6.4.� Introduction pag.59 6.4.� SPEAKERMODEL pag.59 6.4.� MICMODEL pag.60 6.5 RACKFXModule(PostEffects) pag.6�
Chapter 7 Automation pag.6� 7.� LeftPane pag.64 7.� RightPane pag.65 7.� Assignmentprocedure pag.66 7.4 AssignmentSaveandRecall pag.69 7.5 AutomationwithStompIO pag.69
Chapter 8 MIDI pag.7� 8.� MIDIConfiguration pag.7� 8.� MIDIControl pag.7�
Chapter 9 Troubleshooting pag.75
Chapter 10 Support pag.79 �0.� UserArea pag.79
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AmpliTube X-GEAR
I - Contents
II - Interface6
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Module Interface.Mixandmatchover�50"PoweredbyAmpliTube"
guitar&bassgearmodels.
Input, Output and Tuner Interface.
Over 400 different guitar amp and effects presets readytogo.
II - Interface 7
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Five Modules:Amp-Heads,Mic’dCabinets,StompPedalboard,RackEffects,andTuner.
Two Guitar Rigs.ExperiencetheflexibleroutingsystemprovidedbyDualRigtechnology.
StompIO Control.ControlyourgeararsenalthroughStompIO.
III - License Agreement8
AmpliTube X-GEAR
License AgreementEND-USER LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR IK MULTIMEDIA PRODUCT
Pleasereadthisdocumentcarefullybeforebreakingthesealonthemediapackage.Thisagreementlicensestheenclosedsoftwaretoyouandcontainswarrantyandliabilitydisclaimers.
Bybreakingthesealonthemediaenvelope,youareconfirmingtohavetakennoticeoftermsandconditionsofthisagreementandyouacknowledgeyouracceptanceofthesoftwareaswellasyouracceptanceofthetermsofthisagreement.Ifyoudonotwishtodoso,donotbreaktheseal.Instead,promptlyreturntheentirepackage,includingtheunopenedmediapackage,tothedealerfromwhomyouhaveobtainedit,forafullrefund.
�)DEFINITIONS
“EULA”meansthisenduserlicenseagreement
“IKMultimediaProduct”meansthesoftwareprogramincludedintheenclosedpackage,andallrelatedupdatessuppliedbyIKMultimedia.
“IKMultimediaProduct”meansthesoftwareprogramandhardware(ifany)includedintheenclosedpackage,therelateddocumentation,models,multi-mediacontent(suchasanimation,soundandgraphics)andallrelatedupdatessuppliedbyIKMultimedia.
“Notforresale(NFR)Version”meansaversionofIKMultimediaProduct,soidentified,isintendedforreviewandevaluationpurposes,only.
�)LICENSE
The“IKMultimediaProduct”isprotectedbycopyrightlawsandinternationalcopyrighttreaties,aswellasotherintellectualpropertylawsandtreaties.The“IKMultimediaProduct” is licensed,notsold.ThisEULAgrantsyoutherightsasspecifiedherebelow.AllotheractionsandmeansofusagearereservedtothewrittenpermissionoftherightholderIKMultimediaProductionSrl:
Applications Software.The“IKMultimediaProduct”maybeusedonlybyyou.Youmayinstallandusethe“IKMultimediaProduct”,oranypriorversionthereofforthesameoperatingsystem,onuptothree(�)computers,providedthat(a)eachcomputerisownedby(orleasedto)andundertheexclusivecontrolofthelicensee;(b)theprogram(s)shallNOTbeusedsimultaneouslyonmorethanonemachine,and(c)anycomputer(s)withIKMultimediasoftwareinstalledshallnotbesold,rented,leased,loanedorotherwiseberemovedfromthelicensee’spossessionwithoutfirstremoving(uninstalling)thelicensedsoftware,exceptasprovidedinParagraph4(below)pertainingto“SoftwareTransfer”.
Storage/Network use.Youmayalsostoreorinstallacopyofthe“IKMultimediaProduct”onastoragedevice,suchasanetworkserver,usedonlytoinstallorrunthe“IKMultimediaProduct”onyourothercomputersoveraninternalnetwork;however,youmustacquireanddedicateadistinctlicenseforeachuserofthe“IKMultimediaProduct”fromthestoragedevice.Anygivenlicenseforthe“IKMultimediaProduct”maynotbesharedorusedconcurrentlyorotherwiseondifferentcomputersorbydifferentdevelopersinagivenorganization.
�)AUTHORIZATIONCODE
The“IKMultimediaProduct”onlyfunctionswhenyouareinthepossessionofanauthorizationcode.Youwillreceiveanauthorizationcodeuponcomplet-ingtheauthorizationcoderequestprocedure.Onceyourauthorizationcodeisactivated,youmayusetheproduct.
Youagreetofollowtheauthorizationcoderequestprocedureandwillprovidetrue,accurateandcompleteinformationaboutyourself.Ifyouprovideanyinformationthatisuntrue,inaccurate,notcorrectorincomplete,orIKMultimediahasreasonablegroundstosuspectthatsuchinformationisuntrue,inaccurate,notcorrectorincomplete,IKMultimediahastherighttosuspendortorevokethelicense.
Theterminationofthelicenseshallbewithoutprejudicetoanyrights,whatsoever,ofIKMultimedia.
4)DESCRIPTIONOFOTHERRIGHTSANDLIMITATIONS
Limitations on Reverse Engineering, Decompilation, and Disassembly.Youmaynot reverseengineer,decompile,ordisassemble the“IKMultimediaProduct”,exceptandonlytotheextentthatsuchactivityisexpresslypermittedbyapplicablelawnotwithstandingthislimitationofcomponents.The“IKMultimediaProduct”islicensedasasingleproduct.Itscomponentpartsmaynotbeseparatedforuseonmorethanonecomputer.
Not for Resale Version.Ifthe“IKMultimediaProduct”islabeled“NotforResale”or“NFR”or“EvaluationCopy”,then,notwithstandingothersectionsofthisEULA,youmaynotsell,orotherwisetransferthe“IKMultimediaProduct”.
Rental.Youmaynotrent,lease,orlendthe“IKMultimediaProduct”toanyparty.
Software Transfer.Youmaynottransfer,licenseorsublicenseyourrightsasLicenseeofthesoftwareoranyIKMultimediaproduct,aslicensedtoyouunderthisagreementwithoutpriorwrittenconsentoftherightsowner.ThecarrieronwhichtheIKMultimediaproducthasbeendistributedmaybetransferredorotherwisemadeavailabletoanythirdpartyonlywiththepriorwrittenconsentoftherightsownerandprovidedthat(a)theoriginalmedia
III - License Agreement 9
AmpliTube X-GEAR
andlicense(s)accompanythecarrierand(b)thepartytransferringthemediadoesnotretainacopyofthemedia.
5)UPGRADES
Ifthe“IKMultimediaProduct”islabeledorotherwiseidentifiedbyIKMultimediaasan“upgrade”,youmustbeproperlylicensedtouseaproductidenti-fiedbyIKMultimediaasbeingeligiblefortheupgradeinordertousethe“IKMultimediaProduct”.
An“IKMultimediaProduct”labeledorotherwiseidentifiedbyIKMultimediaasanupgradereplacesand/orsupplementstheproductthatformedtheba-sisforyoureligibilityforsuchupgrade.YoumayusetheresultingupgradedproductonlyinaccordancewiththetermsofthisEULA.Ifthe“IKMultimediaProduct”isanupgradeofacomponentofapackageofsoftwareprogramsthatyoulicensedasasingleproduct,the“IKMultimediaProduct”maybeusedandtransferredonlyaspartofthatsingleproductpackageandmaynotbeseparatedforuseonmorethanonecomputer.
6)DUAL-MEDIASOFTWARE
Youmayreceivethe“IKMultimediaProduct”inmorethanonemedium.Youmaynotloan,rent,lease,orotherwisetransfertheothermediumtoanotheruser,exceptaspartofthepermanenttransfer(asprovidedabove)ofthe“IKMultimediaProduct”.
7)LIMITEDWARRANTY
IKMultimediawarrantstotheoriginalpurchaserofthecomputersoftwareproduct,foraperiodofninety(90)daysfollowingthedateoforiginalpurchase,thatundernormaluse,thesoftwareprogramandtheuserdocumentationarefreefromdefectsthatwillmateriallyinterferewiththeoperationoftheprogramasdescribedintheencloseduserdocumentation.
8)WARRANTYCLAIMS
Tomakeawarrantyclaimundertheabovelimitedwarranty,pleasereturntheproducttothepointofpurchase,accompaniedbyproofofpurchase,yourname,yourreturnaddressandastatementofthedefect,orsendtheCD(s)tousatthebelowaddresswithinninety(90)daysofpurchase.Includeacopyofthedatedpurchasereceipt,yourname,yourreturnaddressandastatementofthedefect.IKMultimediaoritsauthorizeddealerwillusereasonablecom-mercialeffortstorepairorreplacetheproductandreturnittoyou(postageprepaid)orissuetoyouacreditequaltothepurchaseprice,atitsoption.
9)LIMITATIONSONWARRANTY
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EXCEPT AS STATED ABOVE, IK MULTIMEDIA MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTY, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, REGARDING THIS PRODUCT. IK MULTIMEDIA DIS-CLAIMS ANY WARRANTY THAT THE SOFTWARE IS FIT FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO A NINETY (90) DAY DURATION OF THIS LIMITED EXPRESS WARRANTY AND IS OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY AND SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMED. IK MULTIMEDIA SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES, EVEN IF IK MULTIMEDIA IS ADVISED OF OR AWARE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. THIS MEANS THAT IK MULTIMEDIA PRODUCTION SRL SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE OR LIABLE FOR THE LOSS OF PROFITS OR REVENUES, OR FOR DAMAGES OR COSTS AS A RESULT OF LOSS OF TIME, DATA OR USE OF THE SOFTWARE, OR FROM ANY OTHER CAUSE EXCEPT THE ACTUAL COST OF THE PRODUCT. IN NO EVENT SHALL IK MULTIMEDIA LIABILITY EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THIS PRODUCT.
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��)GENERAL
ThisAgreementcontainsthecompleteagreementbetweenthepartieswithrespecttothesubjectmatterhereof,andsupersedesallpriororcontempora-neousagreementsorunderstandings,whetheroralorwritten.AllquestionsconcerningthisAgreementshallbedirectedto:
IKMultimediaProductionSrlViadell’Industria464��00ModenaItaly
©�008IKMultimedia.Allrightsreserved.
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AmpliTube X-GEAR
1 - Overview ��
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Chapter 1 AmpliTube X-GEAR Overview
1.1 Introduction
AmpliTube®X-GEAR™isasoftwareshell-hostthatallowsyoutoopen,instandalone and plug-in mode, any “Powered by AmpliTube” applications(includingAmpliTube®�,AmpliTube®JimiHendrix™,Ampeg®SVX™,andAmpliTube®Metal)inasingleinterface.
AmpliTubeX-GEARallowsyou tomixandmatchstomps,amps, cabs,andracksfromdifferent“PoweredbyAmpliTube”applications,andcontrolthemcompletelythroughtheStompIO.
Combining “Powered by AmpliTube” software/plug-ins + AmpliTube X-GEAR + StompIO allows you to build your own custom and expandablesoftware-based rigwith thewidest choiceof superiormodeledampsandeffects. The complete system integration is straightforwardand conceivedwithmusiciansinmind,toletyouplaythroughyourcomputerasifitwasahigh-endhardwarefloorprocessor.StompIOandX-GEARcreatethemostpowerfulguitarandbassprocessoryou'veeverdreamedof.
AmpliTubeX-GEAR'smainfeatures:
AmpliTubeX-GEARworksasa standaloneapplicationaswell asaplug-ininWindowsXP/VistaandMacOSX(UniversalBinary).SupportedPlug-informats:AudioUnits,VST,RTAS(MacOSX)–VST,RTAS(WindowsXP–Vista).Ultra accurate analog modeling with DSM™ technology, “PoweredbyAmpliTube”.HighestsupportedSamplingRate:96kHz.High-precisionTuner.Over �50 superior sounding, highly-sought, vintage and modern,analogmodeledguitar/bassgearincluded*.Up to5�Stomps, �6amps (with separateEQ,Pre, andPowerAmpdesign),��cabs,��mics,��rackeffectscanbeplayedon�rigswith�0insertableeffects*.Over�80,000possibleampcombinations*!It can be expanded and customized with more “Powered byAmpliTube”packages4,000fullyeditablepresetsforliveorstudiousage*.HostsequencerBPMsynchronization.AssignableDAWautomation.MIDIcontrol.SpeedTrainer™: imports anyWAV, AIFF, MP�, andWMA audio file(standaloneversion).Metronome(standaloneversion).
*OnlyvalidfortheStompIOpackage.ThisfeaturedoesnotapplyifyouboughtAmpliTubeX-GEARsep-aratelyanddonotownAmpliTube�,AmpliTubeJimiHendrix™,Ampeg®SVX,andAmpliTubeMetal.
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1 - Overview��
AmpliTube X-GEAR
1.2 DSM Technology
DSM™isanewandexclusiveIKMultimediatechnologyusedintheemula-tionofanalogcircuitry.DSMwasdesignedtoincreasetheresponsiveness,realism and playability of critical analog circuit models. Musicians haveoftenfeltthatdigitalemulationsofhigh-qualityanaloggear(suchasguitaramplifiers) lacked some of the "playability" and "musicality" that madeplaying through the real thing so satisfying. DSM has been designed toimprovethisaspect.
DSMdeliversspecialanduniqueresultswhenappliedtocircuitemulationswhere non-linearity is the main characteristic of the processor, such as indistortion,fuzz,oroverdrivestompboxes,tubeguitarpreamplifiersandpoweramps, and analog compressors and limiters. The DSMworking principle isbasedonanewapproachneverappliedtoDSP“analogmodeling”untilnow.
Analogcircuits,especiallyTubeandClass-Adiscreteones,arenotdynami-cally linear, butmany companiesmodel them as if theywere. An analogcircuit’scharacter isneverconstantlyshapedbutvariesdependingonlotsof parameters, first and foremost the strength, frequency, and harmoniccontentoftheincomingsignal.
DSMtakesthenextstep. Itcontinuouslyadapts the“shape”of theanalogcircuitinsteadofapplyingastaticsnapshot.Byusingmorecomplexmath-ematical functions, a more articulated and musical response is possible,makingDSMidealformodelingtubepreampsandtubepoweramps.
Traditionalemulationsareforcedto tradeoffbetween, forexample, thosekindofdistortionsproducedwhena�x6L6tubepoweramplifierisdriventoitslimit,andit'scleanersoundwhendrivennormally.
DSMdeliversadynamicresponsethatcontinuouslymorphsand“follows”theincomingsignal;inotherwords,thatismoreresponsivetotheplayer'sperformance.
ThisgivesDSMmodelsanaccuracythatcannotbefoundinanyothermod-elinghardwareorsoftwaretoday,onethatrespectsallthenuancesexactlylike a real analog circuit, with a grade of realism and musicality neverachievedbefore.
1.3 Block Diagram
figure�.�
1 - Overview ��
AmpliTube X-GEAR
1.4 Plug-in Architecture
AmpliTubeX-GEARissetupasatraditionalguitarrig.Thisensurespredict-ableresultsandrealworldflexibility.Whileitissimpletocomprehendandnavigate, the user interface allows for complex guitar rigs and advancedsignalrouting.
Theinterfaceisdividedinto5modules:
�)TUNER(figure�.�.�)�)STOMPeffects(figure�.�.�)�)AMP(figure�.�.�)4)CAB(figure�.�.4)5)RACKeffects(figure�.�)
figure�.�.� figure�.�.�
figure�.�.� figure�.�.4
figure�.�.5
Thisapproachmakesiteasytomovebetweenthedifferentsectionsofthegui-
1 - Overview�4
AmpliTube X-GEAR
taramprigandprovideseasyaccesstomodulespecificcontrolsandfeatures.
AmpliTubeX-GEARisdividedintotwosimultaneousguitarrigs(figure�.�).
figure�.�
Thismeanstherearetwoindependentstompeffects,amps,cabinet,andrackeffect signal chains. This lets you create a guitar rigwith two independentamplifiersetups,usethetworigsinanextensivesingleguitarampsetup,oracombinationofthetwousingtheflexibleroutingsystemprovided(figure�.4).
AmpliTube X-GEAR offers eight routing configurations presets, providingeasyaccesstosophisticatedeffectsandamppatching.Forexample;
allstompeffectsandrackeffectsintooneamprig.twoseparateampsetups.allstompeffectsandrackeffectsintooneamprigwithbothcabi-nets.allstompeffectsandrackeffectsintobothamprigs.twoseparatestompeffectssetups intooneampwith twocabinetsetups.twoseparateampsetupswithseparatestompsintotwoindepen-dentrackeffects.twoseparatestompeffectssetupsintotwoseparateamprigsintoalltherackeffects.twoseparatestompeffectssetupsintooneampsetupwithalltherackeffects.
Oneof theeasiestwaystogetstartedwithAmpliTubeX-GEARis toaudi-tion the included collection of presets. These presets have been skillfullyprogrammedby theAmpliTubeX-GEARdesigners toaccurately reproduceeachparticulartone.
1.5 Using the Interface
AmpliTubeX-GEARinterfacehasfourbasicsections:
�)PresetManager(figure�.5.�)
figure�.5.�
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4.5.
6.
7.
8.
figure�.4
1 - Overview �5
AmpliTube X-GEAR
�)ModuleSelector(figure�.5.�)
figure�.5.�
�)ModuleInterface(figure�.5.�)
figure�.5.�
4)Input/Outputinterface(figure�.5.4)
figure�.5.4
The SpeedTrainer (figure �.6) as well as the bottom interface area thatdisplaystheSpeedTrainerimportprocessstatusmessage(e.g.,Ready),theInputgainvalue,andtheCPUloaddisplay (figure�.7),areonlyavailablewhenAmpliTubeX-GEARStandaloneisused.
figure�.6
figure�.7
1 - Overview�6
AmpliTube X-GEAR
To control AmpliTube X-GEAR (standalone or plug-in version) with theStompIO,justpresstheStompIObutton(figure�.8).
TheStompIObuttonenables/disablestheStompIOcontrolfortheselectedAmpliTubeX-GEARinstance
If you have only one instance, this button will turn the StompIOcontrolON/OFF.If you have more instances, this button will allow you to choosewhichAmpliTubeX-GEARinstancetocontrolwithStompIO.AssoonasAmpliTubeX-GEARisopened, itwillautomaticallycon-necttoStompIO(ifitisconnectedandpoweredon).If StompIO is not present, not connected, or not powered ON,AmpliTubeX-GEARwillopenwiththeStompIObuttonoff.WhenconnectingStompIOwhenAmpliTubeX-GEARisalreadyopen,youwillneed topress theStompIObutton toactivate theStompIOcontrol. In this case, the StompIO Patch 000A (the first one that isloadedatStompIOpowerup)willbetemporarilymodifiedtoreflectcurrentAmpliTubeX-GEARstatus.Note that, as explained on the StompIOUserManual, you canuseStompIO to control AmpliTube X-GEAR plug-ins on DAW sessionsthatareusingotheraudiohardware,likeProToolssystems.
BelowabriefdescriptionoftheAmpliTubeX-GEARinterfacesections:
PRESET MANAGER:loadsandsavesAmpliTubeX-GEARpresets(figure�.9).
figure�.9
MODULE SELECTOR: is themain navigationmenu for AmpliTube X-GEAR(figure�.�0).Itdisplaysbothguitarrigs,selectsthemodules,bypassesandmutesmodules,andallowsyoutocontrolthesignalpathoftheguitarrigs.
figure�.�0
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figure�.8
1 - Overview �7
AmpliTube X-GEAR
MODULE INTERFACE: this is themain editing interface (figure �.��). Thisiswheremostoftheeditingtakesplace.Thisinterfaceshowsthedifferentmodulesandalltheirrelatedcontrols.
figure�.��
INPUT/OUTPUT INTERFACE: adjusts input and output gain, sets thenoisegate, adjusts thepan, volume,phaseandmixknobvalues for the currentAmpliTubeX-GEARpreset,anddisplaysthepreferencesandsysteminfor-mation(figure�.��).
figure�.��
As mentioned above, AmpliTube X-GEAR allows you to mix and matchstomps,amps,cabs,andracksfromdifferent“PoweredbyAmpliTube”appli-cations,andfullycontrolthemthroughStompIO.
Consequently, theselectableoptions/modelsavailablethroughthepop-upmenus will vary, according to the “Powered by AmpliTube” applicationsinstalledonyourcomputersuchasAmpliTube�,AmpliTube JimiHendrix,AmpegSVX,andAmpliTubeMetal.
In this section of themanual we refer as “models” to each “Powered byAmpliTube” application’s STOMP, AMP (Pre, EQ, and Amp models), CAB(SpeakerandMicmodels), andRACKmodels. Tohaveanoverviewof themodels included in each application, please check their respective UserManual.
1 - Overview�8
AmpliTube X-GEAR
When no additional “Powered by AmpliTube” products are installed,AmpliTubeX-GEARoffersthefollowingbasicsetofstomps,amps,andcabs,(noRackmodels):
Stomps:WahOverdrive
Amps:AmericanTubeClean�BritishTubeLead�
Cabinets:4x�0OpenVintage4x��ClosedVintage�
Microphones:Condenser4�4Dynamic57
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2 - Getting started �9
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Chapter 2 Getting started with AmpliTube X-GEAR
2.1 AmpliTube X-GEAR and StompIO Registration/Authorization
AmpliTube X-GEAR can be registered by using one of these two serialnumbers:
�. AXG�0-XXXXXXXX-XXXXX
This serialnumberenablesallAmpliTubeX-GEAR functionalitiesexcept the StompIO related ones. If you bought ONLY AmpliTubeX-GEAR(nottheStompIO),thisistheserialnumberthatyouhavereceivedandtheonethatyouneedtousetoRegisterandAuthorizeAmpliTubeX-GEAR.
�.STP�0-XXXXXXXX-XXXXX
This serial number enables all AmpliTube X-GEAR functional-ities included the StompIO related ones. If you bought StompIO(AmpliTubeX-GEARisincludedinthesoftwarepackage),thisistheserialnumberthatyouhavereceivedandtheonethatyouneedtousetoRegisterandAuthorizeAmpliTubeX-GEAR.
If you connect a StompIO to your system where AmpliTube X-GEAR isalready authorized with “AXG�0-XXXXXXXX-XXXXX” serial number youwillseethismessage(figure�.�):
figure�.�
BypressingOK,theProductAuthorizationWizardwillopen.Pleasefollowits instructionssoyouareabletoRegister/AuthorizeAmpliTubeX-GEARusingtheStompIOserialnumber(STP�0-XXXXXXXX-XXXXX).
BypressingCancel,youwillnotproceedwith thenewregistrationand theoriginalAmpliTubeX-GEARauthorizationwillberestoredassoonasStompIOwillbedisconnected.IfyoudonotdisconnectStompIO,youwillbeabletouseitbutAmpliTubeX-GEARwillemitarandomnoisefromtimetotime.Forthisreason,westronglysuggesttoclickOKandRegister/AuthorizeAmpliTubeX-GEARusingtheStompIOserialnumber(STP�0-XXXXXXXX-XXXXX).
Note:thissituationwillonlyoccurifyoufirstbought,installed,registered,
2 - Getting started�0
AmpliTube X-GEAR
andauthorizedAmpliTubeX-GEAR, andyouaddedStompIO later to yoursetup.
2.2 Standalone Mode
AmpliTubeX-GEARStandaloneversioncanbeusedtoperformliveorinarecordingstudiosituation,usingyourcomputerasanextgenerationmodel-ingeffectprocessor.Itallowsyoutoruntheprogramwithouttheneedofahostsequencerapplication.
When playing live it is strongly advisable to use the Standalone versionof AmpliTube X-GEAR with the StompIO, because the performance andAmpliTubeX-GEARintegrationhasbeenoptimizedontheStandalonever-sion.
Using AmpliTube X-GEAR with a �rd party DAW application when play-ing livewithStompIO ispossible,butsome featuresspecificallydesignedaround StompIO and the AmpliTube X-GEAR Standalone versionwill notbeavailable.
2.2.1 Launch AmpliTube X-GEAR Standalone
Onceyourhardwareisproperlyset-upyoucanlaunchAmpliTubeX-GEAR.TolaunchAmpliTubeX-GEARStandalonegoto:
Windows:Start\Programs\AmpliTubeX-GEARicon
Macintosh:Applicationfolder/AmpliTubeX-GEARicon
2 - Getting started ��
AmpliTube X-GEAR
2.2.2 Windows Audio Configuration
AmpliTube X-GEAR using StompIO as audio interface
If the StompIO drivers are already installed and StompIO is already con-nected and turned ON, your AmpliTube X-GEAR audio configuration willalreadybesetforStompIOwithouttheneedtosetupanythingontheAudioSetupwindowinAmpliTubeX-GEAR(figure�.�).
figure�.�
However,ifyouneedtodoanymodification,goto:Settings>AudioMIDISetup.
To change theSample rate, just selecta value from thedropdownmenu.TochangetheBuffersize,clickonPanelandselectavaluefromtheSizedropdownmenu.
NotesaboutSampleRateandBuffersize:
The AmpliTube X-GEAR default audio settings are optimized for lowlatency and good performance. The default audio settings for theStompIOaudiointerfaceonWindowsare:
Samplerate:48kHzBuffersize:�44samples
TheBuffersizevalueisrelatedtothelatencyyouwillhearduringper-formance.Abuffersizeof�44samplesshouldbefineonmostmodern
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2 - Getting started��
AmpliTube X-GEAR
computers,deliveringquiteafastresponse.
Ifyouexperienceaudiopopsorclickswhileplaying, try increasingthisvaluetothenextstep.Ifyourcomputerisreallypowerfulandthe�44valueisworkingper-fectly,youcouldeventrysettingthisvalueto��8or96foranevenfaster response.However, this isnot advisableonmost computers,andshouldnotbeusedasastandardsettingonliveshowsunlessithasbeendeeplytestedforreliability.
AmpliTube X-GEAR using any audio interface other than StompIO
ClickonSettings>AudioMIDISetup.
SelectASIOorDirectXfromthetopmenu.ASIOisthedefaultoptionbecauseitgivesthebestperformance.
InInputs,youraudiointerfacedriverwillbeautomaticallyselected.Ifnot,manuallychooseyouraudiointerfacedriver.
InChannel�(belowtheInputsmenu),selecttheaudiointerfaceinputintowhichyourguitarisplugged.Forexample,iftheguitarispluggedintothefirst audio interface input, you should select Channel �. However, if theguitar isplugged into the secondaudio interface input, you should selectChannel�,andsoon.
NOTE:sometimes,Channel�isidentifiedwithL(Leftchannel)andChannel�withR(Rightchannel).
InOutputs,selectyouraudiointerfaceoutputdriver.TheInputandOutputdrivershouldbethesame.
BelowtheOutputsmenu,selectyourdesiredoutputchannels.Forexample,(Channel�,Output�),(Channel�,Output�).
SampleRate:chooseyourdesiredsamplerate(AmpliTubeX-GEARwillsup-portsamplefrequenciesupto96kHz).
BufferSize:tochangethebuffersizeofanASIOdevice,clickthePANELbut-tonlocatedontherightofthebuffersizeselector,anditwillgiveyouaccesstotheControlPaneloftheaudiointerfaceyouareusing.
Adjustingthebuffersettingswillchangetheaudiosignallatency.Ingeneralsmaller buffer sizesdeliver a faster response, but extremely small valuescanoverloadyourcomputer,resultinginintermittentaudioclicksandunre-liable systemperformance.Usually, valuesbetween��8and�56give thebestperformance/reliabilitycompromise.
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2.2.3 Macintosh Audio Configuration
AmpliTube X-GEAR using StompIO as audio interface
IfStompIOisalreadyconnectedandturnedON,yourAmpliTubeX-GEARaudioconfigurationwillalreadybesetforStompIOwithouttheneedtosetupanythingontheAudioSetupwindowonAmpliTubeX-GEAR(figure�.�).
figure�.�
HoweverifyouwanttochecktheaudiooptionsorsetupforanotherAudioInterfaceclickSettings>AudioSetuptoopentheAudiosettingswindow.
NotesaboutSampleRateandBuffersize:
The AmpliTube X-GEAR default audio settings are optimized for lowlatency and good performance. The default audio settings for theStompIOaudiointerfaceonMacOSXare:
Samplerate:48kHzBuffersize:��8samples
The Buffer size value is related to the latency you will hear duringperformance.Abuffersizeof��8samplesshouldbefineonmostmoderncomputersanddeliversquiteafastresponse.
Ifyouexperienceaudiopopsorclickswhileplaying, try increasingthisvaluetothenextstep.If your computer is really powerful and the ��8 value is workingperfectly,youcouldeventrysettingthisvalueto64.However,onlyaveryfastMacwithaperfectlyoptimizedconfigurationwilldeliverastableperformancewithsuchasmallbuffersize,sothisvalueisnot
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advisableduringaliveshowunlessthereliabilityandperformancehasbeendeeplypreviouslytested.
AmpliTube X-GEAR using any audio interface other than StompIO
Selecttheaudiointerfacesyour’regoingtouseontheInputAudioInterfaceandOutputAudioInterfacesmenus.
YourChannelselectionhastomatchtheaudiointerfacechannelintowhichyourguitar isplugged.Forexample, if theguitar isplugged into the firstaudiointerfaceinput,youshouldselectChannel�,iftheguitarispluggedintothesecondaudiointerfaceinput,youshouldselectChannel�,andsoon.
The Output audio Interfacewill typically be the same as the Input audioInterface. Please select the output for AmpliTube X-GEAR under leftand right channel. Next, select a low Buffer Size value, and a SamplingFrequency (remember that this will be limited by your audio interface/soundcardcapabilities).
SampleRate:chooseyourdesiredsamplerate.(AmpliTubeX-GEARwillsup-portsamplefrequenciesupto96kHz).
Buffer Size: adjusting the buffer settings will change the audio signallatency. In fact, theamountof latencydependson several factors suchascomputer speed and sound card performance. Decreasing the buffer sizevaluewillreducetheamountofsignaldelay.So,theideaistogetthelatencyaslowaspossiblewithoutgettinganyaudioartifacts.Asastartingpoint,a �56buffer size value shouldwork fine.However, considering that eachsetupreactsinadifferentway,pleaseexperimentwithyoursettingsuntilyougetthebestresult.
2.2.4 SpeedTrainer
SpeedTrainer™ is useful to play alongwith songs, to practice your solos orrhythm,orjusttoenjoymakingmusicwithAmpliTubeX-GEAR!Itcanalsobeagreatlearningtool(figure�.4).
figure�.4
TheSpeedTrainerControls(figure�.5)includeOpenAudiobutton(figure�.6)toopenanaudiofile,filePlayandPausebuttons,andA/Bbuttonsforsettingalooppointwithintheaudiofile.
figure�.5 figure�.6
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AudiofilescanbesimplydraggedfromthesystemtotheSpeedTrainerwave-formdisplay.NOTE:youcandragonlyoneaudiofileatatime.
WhenyouopenordraganaudiofileintoSpeedTraineryouwillseeitswave-formprogressivelydisplayed.SpeedTrainerwillbeinLoadingstatus,untiltheentirefileisdisplayedintheWaveformdisplay.
WhentheSpeedTrainerdisplaystheReadystatusyouarereadytoplayyourfile.
A/B repeat (figure�.7).
BypressingAduringfileplayback,theLoopStartMarkerismemo-rizedandasignisplacedonthetimeline.TheAbuttonwillbehigh-lighted(figure�.8).
BypressingBduringfileplaybacktheLoopEndMarkerismemorizedandasignisplacedonthetimeline.Inthiscase,theBbuttonwillbehighlighted(figure�.9).
BypressingAandthenBjustafterhavingopenedanaudiofile,AandBmarkerswillbeautomaticallyplacedatthebeginningandattheendoftheopenedfile,tolooptheentirefile(figure�.�0).
figure�.�0
AssoonastheBpointisplaced,theplaybackwillimmediatelystartfromA,playinguptoBandthenreturningtoAuntilthePauseorPlaybuttonispressed(figure�.��).
PressingClearerasestheA/Bpointsanddisablestheloopplayback(figure�.��).
2.2.5 Loop Trimming
Afteryouset theA (LoopStartMarker)andB(LoopEndMarker),youareabletomakesmalladjustmentsbyholdingthemouseontopofthemarkersign,andthendraggingthemhorizontally(figure�.��).
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IfyouclickonordragtheAorBmarkers,theirpositionwillbeshownintheTimeDisplay(figure�.�4),locatedbelowthefilename(figure�.�5).
2.2.6 Waveform Display
TheaudiofilepeakwaveformisdisplayedasanaverageoftheL&Rchan-nels. Thismeans that youwill see it as only onewaveform, even if youraudiofileisstereo(figure�.�6).
figure�.�6
Additionally,thereareHorizontalZoomInandOutbuttons.TheZoomIn(+)andZoomOut(-)arelocatedbelowthewaveformdisplay,ontheleftside(figure�.�7).TheZoomLevelrangeisfromx�tox��andisshownontheSelectedParameterDisplay(figure�.�8).
TheHorizontalScrollBarwillallowyou tomove the file into thedisplay.WhiledraggingtheHorizontalScrollBar(totherightorleft),thewaveformwill followyourmovements,withouthaving to release themouseclick toupdatethewaveformvisualization(figure�.�9).
2.2.7 Tempo and Pitch Adjustment
Through the AmpliTube X-GEAR SpeedTrainer, you are able to indepen-dentlychangetheTempoandPitchofyouraudiofile.
Whileyouareplayingyouraudiofile,movetheTempoknobfrom50%to�50%(figure�.�0).Increasingthe%valuewillspeedupthetempoandviceversa.TheTempodefaultpositionis�00%,atcenter.
Forexample,youcanextract theaudiofromyourguitarmethodCD,opena file,andchange the tempoofaparticularexercise. In thisway,youcanmeasureyourprogress,speedingupthe trackgradually,asyour technicalskillsincrease.
ThePitchadjustablerangegoesfrom–��semitones(oneoctavedown)to+��semitones(oneoctaveup),anditsDefaultpositionis0,atcenter(figure�.��).
In thisway,youareable topracticeyour favoriteartist’s songs in severalkeys, increasingyour transpositionskillsand improvingyoumusicianshipcapabilities,orquicklychangebetweensongswithouthavingtoretuneyourguitartoeachnewtrack.
NOTE:PitchandTempochangeswillnotalteryourstoredA/Blooppoints.
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2.2.8 Values Indication
AlltheSpeedTrainerControlsaswellastheMetronomeVolumevalueareshownontheSelectedParameterdisplaylocatedunderthepeakmeter.Forinstance,ifyoumovetheSpeedTrainerVolumeknob(figure�.��),itsvaluewillbereflectedinthisdisplay(figure�.��).
2.2.9 Peak Meter
The Peak Meter shows the audio file playback instantaneous peak level(figure�.�4).
2.2.10 Metronome
You can turn on the Metronome by clicking on the On button, and thenmodifyitsTempo(viaitsTempoknob)anditsvolume(throughitsVolumeknob),(figure�.�5).
Tempovaluesaremeasuredinbeatsperminute(BPM),anditsrangegoesfrom�0 to ��0BPM. Tempo values are shown in theMetronomedisplay.However, thevolumevaluesareexpressed in% (from0 to�00%) in theSelectedParameterdisplay.
NOTE: theMetronomeTempo is linked to the Tapbutton, but there isNOrelationshipbetweentheMetronomeTempoandtheSpeedTrainerTempo.
InAmpliTubeX-GEARStandaloneversion,youareabletochangetheBPMTempoin4differentways:
-InSettings/Preferences(figure�.�6):
figure�.�6
figure�.��
figure�.��
figure�.�4
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2 - Getting started�8
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�.TypingtheBPMvalueintheTempoboxandthenclickingOK.�.ClickingtheTapbutton(atleast5times)withasteadypulseandthen clickingOK. The recognizedBPM valuewill be displayed intheTempofield.
-InthemainAmpliTubeX-GEARwindow(youhavetoclosetheprevi-ouslyopenedPreferenceswindow):
�.OnyourcomputerkeyboardpresstheCapslockkeyandtaptheUPPERCASETkeyatleast5times.4. Hold the Shift key and tap the UPPERCASE T key at least 5times.
TIP: as a learning tool, you can use AmpliTube X-GEAR Metronome toincrease your technical skills. For the example, you can create a weeklyroutineanddesignaProgressRecord.
2.2.11 Status Bar
As aforementioned in Chapter �, the Status Bar (bottom area) of theAmpliTubeX-GEARinterfacecontainstheSpeedTrainerimportprocesssta-tusmessage(e.g.,Ready),theInputgainvalue,andtheCPUloaddisplay.
Import process status messageIn this portion of the bottom area, it will be displayed the SpeedTrainerimportprocessstatusmessage,e.g.Ready(figure�.�7).
Input gainThisparameterisglobalanditnotstoredtoeachAmpliTubeX-GEARpreset,so that you can switch instrumentwhileplaying livewithout theneed toretouchallinputsensitivityforallpresets.CheckTheStompIOUserManualforadditionaldetailedinformationonhowthisworksandhowitcanbesetfromtheStompIOpanelwhileplayinglive.
The Input gain value will be updated while changing its valuethroughtheStompIOpanel.If the StompIO is connected, the Input gain value can ONLY bechangedthroughtheStompIO.IftheStompIOisNOTconnected,theInputgainvaluecanbechangedfromtheAmpliTubeX-GEARinterface(justclickanddragitsvalue,from0to�4dB)(figure�.�8).
Asreference,pleasecheckthesesettingsformostpopularinstruments:
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Instruments Input gain valuesActiveguitars/basses,orwithguitarshavingveryhothumbuckerspickups 0dB
Passivehumbuckerguitars,e.g.,Gibson®LesPaul® 5dBPassivesinglecoilguitars,e.g.,Fender®Stratocaster® 8dBExtremelylowoutputvintagepickupsequippedoninstrumentslikevintageStrats ��dB
NOTE: to quickly set the input levelwhile playing livewith the StompIO,pleasechecktheStompIOmanual.
CPU load displayPleaserefertochapter�.9(Preferences)fortipsonhowtomanagetheCPUload(figure�.�9).
figure�.�9
2.2.12 Auto Start-Up
WhenplayinglivewithStompIOitcouldbeusefulhavingtheComputertoautomatically launchAmpliTubeX-GEARatpowerup.ThiswillallowyoutouseStompIOwithoutusingacomputerscreenonstage,oramouse/key-boardsetup.
Windows: copy the AmpliTube X-GEAR icon to the Start-Up group in theStartmenu.
MacOSX:addAmpliTubeX-GEARtothecurrentUser“Log-In”itemslist.
ThiswillmakeAmpliTubeX-GEARtoautomatically launchandconnect toStompIOatcomputerpowerup.Whendoingthisremembertoalwayscon-nectandturnonStompIObeforeturingonthecomputer.
2.3 Plug-in Mode
2.3.1 Starting AmpliTube X-GEAR in your host application
2.3.1.1 Pro Tools
LaunchProTools®andcreateyournewsession. Ifplaying/recordinggui-tar, create a mono audio track. Go to Insert/Plug in/Harmonic and select“AmpliTubeX-GEAR”MonoorMono/Stereo.TheAmpliTubeX-GEARinter-
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facewillthenopen.IfyouareusingProToolsLE,whenthetrackisplacedintherecordmonitor,youwillbeabletoheartheeffectwhilerecording.
TIP:ifyouareusingProToolsTDMandrecordingaguitartrackwhilelisten-ingtoAmpliTubeX-GEAR,youshouldinsertaTDMplug-inlikeDigidesign’s“TRIM”beforeAmpliTubeX-GEARRTAS.Thiswill letyouhearAmpliTubeX-GEARRTASwhile recordingonaTDMsystem.OtherwiseProToolswillbypass theRTASplug-in (AmpliTubeX-GEAR in this case) as soonas thetrackisRECORDenabled.
2.3.1.2 Digital Performer
LaunchDigitalPerformer™(4.�ornewer)andcreateyournewsession.GototheMixerView.Onyouraudiotrack,selectyourAudiointerfaceInputandOutputs,andadd“AmpliTubeX-GEAR”asaninsert.TheAmpliTubeX-GEAReditwindowwillautomaticallyopen.Youwillbeabletoheartheplug-inontheaudioyou’rerecordingorplayingback.
TIP: inorder to takeadvantageof the stereo capabilitiesofAmpliTubeX-GEAR,suchascabinetpanningandstereorackFX,opentheplug-inasMonotoStereowheninsertedonmonotracks,oropenitonstereotracks.
2.3.1.3 Logic
LaunchLogic®. Insert “AmpliTubeX-GEAR”on thedesired track from themixer window. The AmpliTube X-GEAR edit window will automaticallyopen.
TIP: in order to take advantage of the stereo capabilities of AmpliTubeX-GEAR, such as cabinet panning & stereo rack FX, open the plug-in asMono->Stereowheninsertedonmonotracks,oropenitonstereotracks.
2.3.1.4 Cubase
LaunchCubase®.Click on the audio or instrument track youwish to addAmpliTubeX-GEARto.Intheinspectorwindowontheleft,clickonthedarkbluebarthatsays“Inserts”orclickonthe“e”buttonbesidethetracknameatthetopoftheinspector.
Once the inserts are visible (under the insert menu on the Inspector, orontheleftsideoftheaudiochanneleditorwindow)clickonemptyinsert.Select“AmpliTubeX-GEAR.”Atthispoint,ifyouplaybackaudio,youshouldbeabletoroutesoundthroughyourAmpliTubeX-GEARplug-in.
TIP: inorder to takeadvantageof the stereo capabilitiesofAmpliTubeX-GEAR,suchascabinetpanning&stereorackFX,insertitonastereotrackorstereogroupstracks.
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2.3.1.5 Nuendo
LaunchNuendo®,openanewproject,thengotoProject/Addtrack/Audio,select youraudio track configuration (mono/stereo)and clickOK.Clickon“Inserts” toexpandthemenu,andthenclickonthedarkblueareabelow“i�”toseetheavailableplug-inlist.SelectAmpliTubeX-GEARsoitopens.Toopen/closeitsinterfaceclickonthe“e”button.
TIP: inorder to takeadvantageof the stereo capabilitiesofAmpliTubeX-GEAR,suchascabinetpanningandstereorackFX,insertitonastereotrackorstereogroupstracks.
2.3.1.6 Live
LaunchLive®andclickononeoftheaudioorvirtualinstrumenttracksinthe“MixerDropArea.”Noticeinthe“TrackView”(bottomwindow),thetext“DropAudioEffects”appears.
Now,inthe“BrowserWindow”(windowonthelefthandsideofthescreen),click thePlug-inBrowserbutton (it looks likeanelectricplug).Browse to“AmpliTubeX-GEAR”andclick/dragitintothe“TrackView.”OnceAmpliTubeX-GEARloads,itwillappearasa“Device”withanXYcontrolleronit.
Toopen/closetheAmpliTubeX-GEARinterfaceclickthe“editplug-inpanel”(smallwrench)buttonatthetopoftheDevicewindow.
2.3.1.7 GarageBand
LaunchGarageBand®,andgo to Track/NewTrack. Set up thiswindow inthefollowingway:clickonRealInstrument,MonitorOn,ExpandtheDetailsmenu,andUnchecktheEchoandReverbeffect.Select“AmpliTubeX-GEAR”fromthe�rdor4theffectsdropdownmenu,checkitsleftbox,andclicktheCreatebutton.
Play your guitar - you should now be able to monitor it. To open theAmpliTube X-GEAR interface, double click the track (the track info win-dowwillpopup)andclickonthepencil iconlocatedtotheright,andtheAmpliTubeX-GEARinterfacewillopen.
2.3.1.8 SonarLaunchSonar®andcreateyournewsession.Open theConsole (pressingALT+�)and locate theaudiotrack towhichyouwishtoaddAmpliTubeX-GEAR.Right click into the FX Insert Area (the dark square located in theAudiotrack’supperarea)andchoose“AmpliTubeX-GEAR”fromtheAudioFXsub-menu.TheAmpliTubeX-GEARinterfacewillthenappear.
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2.3.1.9 Acid
LaunchAcid™, and go to Insert\Audio track. Then go to Insert again andselectAssignableFX,doubleclicktheVSTfolder,select“AmpliTubeX-GEAR”andthenclickonAdd/Ok.TheAmpliTubeX-GEARinterfacewillopen.
2.3.1.10 Tracktion
LaunchTracktion®,openaprojectanddrag the“new filter” from the toprightareatotheselectedaudiotrack.Whentheplug-inslistappears,select“AmpliTubeX-GEAR”soitsinterfacewillopen.Tomonitoryourguitar,click“R”fromyourselectedtrackinputdevice(leftarea).
2.3.1.11 RiffWorks Standard
LaunchRiffworksStandard®,andclickontheHardwarebutton(locatedatthebottomoftheinterface)toturnitoff.ThenclickonthelittleAMPdownarrowandselect“AmpliTubeX-GEAR”fromthe“other”category.
2.4 Hands-On Examples
Nowthatyou’velearnedthebasicconceptsaboutAmpliTubeX-GEARstand-alonemodeaswellashowtoinsertitasaplug-ininyourhostapplication,let’sstartwiththefollowinghands-onexample:clickonthePresetsSelectorandchooseonepreset.
2.4.1 Selecting Amps
Now, let’s change theampand its components. Clickon theAMPmodulebuttonlocatedbelowthesignalchaindisplay(figure�.�0).
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Select another amplifier from the Pre Model menu, e.g., AmpliTube JimiHendrix/AmericanVintageT(figure�.��).
figure�.��
Then,turnofftheEQModel’sMatchswitchandselectAmpliTube�/BritishTube�0TBpreset(figure�.��).
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To change the PowerAmpModel, turn off theAmpModel’sMatch switchand select AmpliTube Jimi Hendrix / Tube �00W 6L6 D (figure �.��), forinstance.
figure�.��
2.4.2 Choosing the Cabinet
To explore the speaker cabinet options, click on the CAB module button(figure�.�4), turnoff theMatchswitch,andnavigate throughthespeakermodels using theUp/Down arrow keys. Select Ampeg SVX / SVT – 8�0E,(figure�.�5),forexample.
figure�.�5
Afterthat,experimentwithdifferentmicrophonesettings.SelectAmpliTube
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JimiHendrix/Ribbon�60fromtheMicModelmenu(figure�.�6)andmodifyitspositionand/oritsdistanceusingtheOn/OffAxisandNear/Farswitches.Toadjusttheamountofroomambiencethatismixedwiththemicrophonesignal,movetheAmbienceslidertothedesiredposition.
figure�.�6
2.4.3 Adding Effects
You canexpand the sound spectrumof your rig by addingeffects via theSTOMPandRACKmodules.
ClickontheSTOMPmodulebuttonfromtheModuleSelector(figure�.�7).ClickonthefirstselectableeffectslotandchooseAmpliTube�/Wah.ClickonthesecondselectableeffectslotandselectAmpliTubeJimiHendrix/Octa-V.Click on the third selectable effect slot and choose Ampeg SVX /Overdrive(figure�.�8).
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Afterthat,youareabletoadd�morevirtualstompsinordertogetyoursignaturesound.
Toaddaneffectat theendof thechain,clickontheRACKmodulebuttonfromtheModuleSelector(figure�.�9).
Thereare4rackunitsavailableperrig,thismeansthatifyouareusingadual-rigconfigurationyoucansetupto8effectssimultaneously.
Toloadarackeffect,clickthedisplaytotheleftsideoftherack(figure�.40)andselectfromthedropdownmenu,orclicktheUp/Downarrowstoscrollthroughtheeffects(figure�.4�),e.g.,AmpliTubeJimiHendrix/RotarySpeaker.
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Chapter 3 Input/Output Interface
3.1 I/O Interface
The Input/Output interface provides more than just volume controls. Itincludes a noise gate, a selected parameter display, an integrated tunerdisplay, independent volume and pan, phase andmix knobs, and plug-inparametersandversioninformation(figure�.�).
figure�.�
3.2 Connecting Your Guitar and Adjusting Your Levels
Using AmpliTube X-GEAR and StompIO
Plugyourguitar/bassintoStompIOIn(Rearpanel)Read StompIO manual about how to set the Input level. This is aGlobalsetup,notstoredtothePatches,andyouonlyneedtochangeitwhileswitchinginstruments.TheInputgainvaluedisplayedonAmpliTubeX-GEARinterface(bot-tomarea),canONLYbechanged/updatedthroughStompIO(whenitisconnected).To change thePreset Input level, use theAmpliTubeX-GEAR Inputlevelknob,locatedontheI/OInterface.
Using AmpliTube X-GEAR with an Audio Interface other than StompIO
Plug your guitar/bass into a Hi-Z input, Instrument input, or aMicrophone XLR input (ONLY if you are using an active DI BOXbetweentheguitar�/4”PlugandtheMicXLRinput).DoNOTuseRegularLineinputs.NEITHER-�0dBnor+4dBinputscanbeusedforyourguitar.TherearetwooptionstooptimallysetupyourGlobalInputlevel:
DecreasetheAmpliTubeX-GEARInputGainvalueto0dB(justclickanddragitsvalue)andincreasetheaudiointerfacegainknob up to the point where the clipping LED starts blinking(usually, when you play extremely hard, e.g., doing strongdownstrokes).After,decreasetheaudiointerfacegainlevelalittlebitsoyoucanavoidclipping.Keep the AmpliTube X-GEAR Input Gain value at +6 dB(default)andmodifytheaudiointerfacegainknobaccordingly,toavoidclipping.
To change thePreset Input level, use theAmpliTubeX-GEAR Inputlevelknob,locatedontheI/OInterface.
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Tosummarize:
IfyouareusingAmpliTubeX-GEARandStompIO,theGlobalInputLevelisdeterminedbytheStompIOrelatedsetting.
IfyouareusingAmpliTubeX-GEARwithanotheraudiointerface,theGlobalInputLevel isdeterminedby theaudio interfacegainplus theAmpliTubeX-GEARInputGainvalue.
ThePresetInputLevelisdeterminedbytheAmpliTubeX-GEARInputlevelknob(locatedontheI/OInterface),independentlyoftheaudiointerfaceinuse.
3.3 Selected Module Pan and Volume
Foradded flexibility, youareable to control thevolume foreachselectedmodule (figure �.�). The Volume control fine tunes the output level onanymodule. ThePan control adjusts thepanposition on stereomodules.However, only theCABandRACKmodules canbepanned.Usually, thesecontrolsshouldbekeptattheirdefaultcenterposition.
3.4 Phase
ThePhasecontrol (figure�.�) isnormallysetatzero(center),consideringthatcouldbeapositiveornegativevalue.
TodelaytheDirectsignal,adjustthePhaseControltonegativevalues.TodelaytheCabinetsignal,adjustthePhaseControltopositivevalues.
Asanexample,youcanusethePhasecontrolwithdualCabinetssetupstocreatestereosoundsbydelayingoneCabinet(adjustthePhaseControltopositivevalues)byafewmillisecondsinrespectoftheotherone.Inaddi-tion,youcanusethiscontroltoexperimentwithdelaybetweentheDirectandCabinetsoundsonbasssounds.
NOTE:thiscontrolhastobeusedinconjunctionwithMix.
3.5 Mix
TheMix control (figure �.4) is normally set at zero as itmixes the signalcapturedbytheCabmodelmicrophonewiththedirectsignaltakenfromtheStompsoutput.Thisismainlyusefulwithbassampstomixthedirectsignalwiththecabinetone,butcouldbeinterestingalsooncertainkindofguitarsoundsaswell.
NOTE:thiscontrolhastobeusedinconjunctionwithPhase.
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3.6 Using Noise Gate
ThroughtheNoiseGate,youareabletominimizetheamountofunneces-sarynoise,especiallyifyouareusinghighgain(figure�.5).
THRESH. (Threshold):setsthethresholdlevelforthesignal.Whenthesignaldropsbelowthesetthresholdlevel,thenoisegatesilencesthesignal. Usually, keep the threshold level at the lowest possible value(fullycounterclockwise)andset ithigheronlywhenyouneedtoacti-vatethegate.
REL. (Release):setsthegatereleasetime.Highervalueswillresultinagatethattakesalongeramountoftimetocloseagain,whentheinputsignaldropsbelowthethreshold.
3.7 Tune
TuneprovidesasmallrepresentationoftheTUNERmodule,makingiteasytotuneupwithouthavingtochangethemoduleyouareworkingon.
Itdisplaysthedetectednotename,andalsoprovidesyouwithagraphicalrepresentationofthefinetuning(figure�.6).
WhentheOKarrowlightilluminates,thetuningiswithin+/-4cents.
3.8 Selected Parameter Display
Every time that you adjust a STOMP,AMP, CAB (Ambience only) orRACKparameter,theactualvaluewillbedisplayed(includingtheunitmeasure-mentwhenitisnecessary)intheSelectedParameterDisplay.
Forexample,ifyouincreasetheAMPmodulelevel,adB(Decibel)abbrevia-tionwillappearontherightofthevalue(figure�.7).
Also, if you tweakany Input/Output Interfaceknobsuchas Input, Thresh,Rel, Pan, Level, and Master, their values will be shown in the SelectedParameterDisplay.
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3.9 Preferences
ThroughthePreferencesmenu(figure�.8),youareabletoenable/disablethefollowingoptions(figure�.9):
figure�.9
Stomps,Pre,andAmpOversamplingHighResolutionCabinetGlobalBypassTempoSource:Host/GlobalorPreset
Stomps, Pre, and Amp Oversampling
Enablingoversampling improves thesoundqualitysignificantlywhenthesignal isheavilydistorted.However, itwill increaseyourCPU load. Ifyouusehighgainsoundsand thedistortionobtainedbyusingapreamplifiersuchasthe“BritishLeadS�00,”wesuggestenablingthePreOversamplingoption.
Oversampling is enabled by default on preamplifiers, and disabled onstompsandpoweramplifiers.
TIP:youcandisableOversamplingwhenworkingonasessioninreal-timeandactivateitjustbeforebouncingthefinalmix.
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figure�.8
3 - Input/Output Interface 4�
AmpliTube X-GEAR
High Resolution
Enabling“HighResolution”willimprovethedynamicandmusicalresponseofthepoweramplifiers,buttheCPUusagewillbesomewhathigher.PleasedisableHighResolutiononlyifyourcomputerdoesnothavesufficientCPUpowerforthecurrentsession.
HighResolutionisenabledbydefault.
Cabinet Global Bypass
This option allows you to enable/disable the AmpliTube X-GEAR speakeremulation.Forexample,whenyouplayliveusingStompIOwitharegularguitar cabinet youmaywant todisableall speaker emulations inside theAmpliTube-XGEAR rig.Disabling CabinetGlobalBypasswill force all CabmodulesintoBypass,despitewhatiswritteninthePresetorPatch.
ThisoptionisalsoselectablefromtheStompIOpanel.
Tempo Source
This option allows you to select between Host/Global and Preset Temposource.
Host/Global:theBPMSyncTemposourceistheHostApplicationTempo,(thetempooftheapplicationintowhichAmpliTubeX-GEARisinsertedasaplug-in).
TheHost/GlobalBPMvalueisdisplayedontherightsideofthePresetselectorin“Gray”color(figure�.�0).
figure�.�0
WhenyouuseAmpliTube-XGEARasstandalonewiththeStompIO,thedefaultGlobaltempois��0BPM.YouwillfindthistempowhenturningontheStompIOinGlobalTempomode.
TheLEDontheStompIOPanelontopoftheTAPfoot-switchwillblinkatthecurrentTemporate.
Preset:theBPMSyncTemposourceisthevaluesavedwiththePreset.TheStompIOTempowillbeupdatedwhenloadingtherelatedPatch.
3 - Input/Output Interface4�
AmpliTube X-GEAR
ThePresetBPMvalueisdisplayedontherightsideofthePresetselec-torin“Red”color(figure�.��).
figure�.��
TosaveaBPMvaluetoaparticularPreset,clickPreferences>enablethePresetoption>andclickSave.PutthemousepointerbelowtheBPMvalue,deletethecurrentvalue,insertanewone,andclickSave.
TheLEDontheStompIOPanelontopoftheTAPfoot-switchwillblinkatthecurrentTemporate.
Inbothcases,whentheStompIOisconnected,theTempocanbeoverwrittenbyTAPPINGontheStompIOTAPfootswitch.
3.10 Information (“I”)
ToopentheInfopage,clickonthe“I”button(figure�.��).Youwillfindtheproductname, its versionnumber,and the related copyrightnotes (figure�.��).
figure�.��
figure�.��
3 - Input/Output Interface 4�
AmpliTube X-GEAR
3.11 Lock
If you are running the software in demo mode, and you click on theLock button (figure �.�4), the Product Authorization Wizard will appear.However,ifyoualreadyregisteredandauthorizedyourproduct,clickingonthe Lockbuttonwill showyou theproduct SerialNumber,Digital ID, andAuthorizationCode(figure�.�5).
figure�.�5
Important note: the amount of gear models that AmpliTube X-GEARwilldisplay isbasedon the“PoweredbyAmpliTube”applications installedonyourcomputer.So,pleaseRegisterandAuthorizeeachof thembeforethe�0daysdemoperiodexpires,soyoualwayshavetheentiresetofoptionsavailable.
figure�.�4
3 - Input/Output Interface44
AmpliTube X-GEAR
4 - Module Selector 45
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Chapter 4 Module Selector
TheModuleSelectorperformsmultiplefunctions(figure4.�):first,itallowsyoutoselectthedifferentmodulesinAmpliTubeX-GEAR;second,itdisplaysthe dual signal paths, third; it allows you to select eight different signalpaths.
figure4.�
4.1 Dual Signal Paths
AmpliTubeX-GEARprovides two discrete signal paths; each one contain-ingSTOMPbox,AMP,CAB,andRACKmodules.Throughtheeightavailablepresets, these two signal paths can be configured in multiple variationsallowinga tremendousamountof flexibility.This isavery important fea-turebecauseitallowsyoutorouteyourguitarsignaltomultipleamplifiersor cabinets; create twoseparate six stomppedal setupsor createonebigtwelvepedalsetup.
ThePresetbuttons locatedto the leftof theModuleSelectorallowyoutochangethesignalpathoftheguitarrig(figure4.�).
Clickingontheindividualbuttons(from�to8)orusingtheUp/Downarrowswillallowyoutoselectdifferentsignalpaths.
Theavailableroutingsare:
allstompeffectsandrackeffectsintooneamprig.twoseparateampsetups.allstompeffectsandrackeffectsintooneamprigwithbothcabi-nets.allstompeffectsandrackeffectsintobothamprigs.twoseparatestompeffectssetups intooneampwith twocabinetsetups.twoseparateampsetupswithseparatestompsintotwoindepen-dentrackeffects.twoseparatestompeffectssetupsintotwoseparateamprigsintoalltherackeffects.twoseparatestompeffectssetupsintooneampsetupwithalltherackeffects.
�.�.�.
4.5.
6.
7.
8.
figure4.�
4 - Module Selector46
AmpliTube X-GEAR
4.2 Selecting Modules
Oncethesignalpathfortheguitarrigissetup,youcaneasilynavigatethedifferentAmpliTubeX-GEARmodulesvia theModuleSelector. To selectaparticularmodule,justclickonit(figure4.�).
figure4.�
Thisoptionallowsyoutoeasyaccesstoanymoduleoneitherofthedualsignal path. Clickingon themodule buttonsbelow (TUNER, STOMP,AMP,CAB,andRACK)selectsthefirstmoduleofthetwoavailableinthechain.
5 - Preset Manager 47
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Chapter 5 Preset Manager
ThePresetManager (figure5.�) allowsyou to controlAmpliTubeX-GEARpresets.
figure5.�
5.1 Loading Presets
Toloadapreset inAmpliTubeX-GEAR,clickonthePresetSelector(figure5.�)andchoosefromthedropdownmenu,orclicktheUp/Downarrowsandscrollthroughtheavailablepresets.
figure5.�
5 - Preset Manager48
AmpliTube X-GEAR
5.2 Other Controls
FOLDER: opens thePresetsFolder for immediatemanual interventiononlocation,grouping,naming,andbackupofthepresetfilesviastan-dardOSwindow(figure5.�).
figure5.�
SAVE:savesthecurrentsetupasapreset.Infact,itwillsavetheparam-etersforallthemodulesinAmpliTubeX-GEAR(figure5.4).
figure5.4
SAVE AS:functionsliketheSAVEbuttonbutalwayspromptsforanewnameinthesavedialogue(figure5.5).
figure5.5
5 - Preset Manager 49
AmpliTube X-GEAR
DELETE:deletesthecurrentlyselectedpreset.Rememberthatthiscom-mandcannotbeundone,sobecareful(figure5.6).
figure5.6
5.3 Saving a Preset
ClicktheSAVEbutton(figure5.7).Ifyoujustlaunchedtheprogram,apopupwindowwillappear(figure5.8).
figure5.8
At the topof thiswindow,you can specifya folderwhereyouwould liketosavethepresetorcreateanewfoldertosavein.Inthemiddlefieldonthispopupwindow, type thenameof thepreset.ThebottomfieldmakesAmpliTube X-GEAR auto overwrite when you click SAVE. This will allowyoutosavequicker,butbecareful,asyoucouldunintentionallyoverwritepresetsthatyouwantedtokeep.
ClicktheSAVEbuttoninthepopupwindow.YourpresetisnowsavedanditwillimmediatelyappearinthePresetSelector(figure5.9).
figure5.9
figure5.7
5 - Preset Manager50
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Now, if you click the SAVE button again, the “Are you sure you want toreplace (name of the previously saved file will appear here)?” messagewillappear(figure5.�0).ClickYEStoreplacetheoldpresetwithyournewchanges,orclickNOtopreservetheoriginal.
figure5.�0
If youwant to keep several versionsof aparticularpreset, clickSAVEASandrenametheactualpreset,e.g.“presetname”�,“presetname”�,“presetname”�,etc.
6 - Modules 5�
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Chapter 6 AmpliTube X-GEAR Modules
AmpliTubeX-GEARincludes5modules:TUNERSTOMPAMPCABRACK
ThroughtheAmpliTubeX-GEARSTOMP,AMP,CAB,andRACKmodules,youareabletomixandmatchallthegearmodelsincludedineach“PoweredbyAmpliTube”application,andcontrolthemfullywithStompIO.
Specifically,youareabletomixandmatchmodelsinthefollowinglocations:
STOMPModule:effectsslots,whereitsays“empty”(figure6.�).
figure6.�
AMPModule:PreModel,EQModel,andAmpModel(figure6.�).
figure6.�
CABModule:SpeakerModelandMicModel(figure6.�).
figure6.�
RACKModule:rackdisplay,whereitsays“empty”(figure6.4).
figure6.4
For additional information about each stomp, amp, cab, and rack modelas well as their controls, please read their respective User Manual. Forexample,ifyouwanttoexpandyourknowledgeabouttheUni-Vstomp,gototheAmpliTubeJimiHendrixUserManual,Chapter7.
�.�.�.4.5.
6 - Modules5�
AmpliTube X-GEAR
6.1 TUNER Module
ThefirstmoduleinAmpliTubeX-GEARistheTuner(figure6.5).
figure6.5
Toaccessthetuner,clicktheTUNERbuttononthemoduleselector.Thistunerisafullyautomaticchromatictuner,meaningthatthereisnoneedtomanuallyselectthenoteyouaregoingtotune.Thetunerwillautomaticallydetectandshowwhichnoteyou’replaying.OntheleftthereisanOn/Offswitchforthetuner(figure6.6).SettingtheswitchtotheONpositionwillturnontheTuner.
ThereisaMutecontrolaswell(figure6.7).Thismakesitpossibletosilencetheguitarsignalwhiletuning,averyusefulfeatureforliveperformance.TheseBypassandMutecontrolsarethesamecontrolsthatappearonthetoprightsideoftheAmpliTubeX-GEARinterface(figure6.8).
UndertheOn/OffandMutecontrols,TUNEdisplaysthetuningreferencebeingused.Thedefaultreferenceis440Hz.Thiscanbeadjustedbyclickingonthedisplay.Acursorwillappear:usebackspaceandcursorbuttonstomoveandeditthevalueenteringnumbers.Thestandardandmostcommontuningrefer-enceis440Hz,andthepossiblerangeisfrom4�5to455Hz(figure6.9).
Therightsideofthetunerdisplaysthedetectednotevalueandthefine-tuningincents(figure6.�0).ThisisalsovisibleontheI/OInterfacesectionwiththefine-tuningshowngraphically(figure6.��).
Themain feature in the tuner is thegraphical tuner interface (figure 6.��).Basedonahigh-endrackmounttuner,AmpliTubeX-GEAR’stunerallowsforpreciseandeasytuning.
figure6.��
figure6.6 figure6.7
figure6.8
figure6.9
figure6.�0
figure6.��
6 - Modules 5�
AmpliTube X-GEAR
6.2 STOMP Module (Stomp Effects)
ThesecondmoduleinAmpliTubeX-GEARistheSTOMPmodule.
ToaccesstheSTOMPmodule,clicktheSTOMPbuttonontheModuleSelector(figure6.��).
figure6.��
TheSTOMPmoduleflexibilityallowsyoutofreelyconfiguresixstomppedaleffectsatatime.Infact,youcanusetheSTOMPmoduleastwoindependentsix pedal stomp setups (figure 6.�4) or as one twelve pedal stomp setup(figure6.�5).Thisisconfiguredbyselectingtheappropriateroutingpresettotheleftofthesignalpathdisplay(figure6.�6).
figure6.�6figure6.�5figure6.�4
6 - Modules54
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Thesixstompeffectslotsaredisplayedinthemoduleinterfaceas“empty”slotsonawoodenpedalboard(figure6.�7).
figure6.�7
To select a stompunit, clickoneachof the six stompslots (where it says“Empty”),selecta"PoweredbyAmpliTube"application,andchooseoneofthestompmodels(figure6.�8).
figure6.�8
Another navigation option is to scroll through the different stomp boxesusingtheUp/Downarrows(figure6.�9).
figure6.�9
6 - Modules 55
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Like the actual gear itself, each stomp effect’s controls are displayed onthe stompbox (figure6.�0).Whenyouadjust a rotaryor slide control onthe stompbox, that control’s value isdisplayed in theSelectedParameterDisplay(figure6.��).
figure6.��
figure6.�0
6 - Modules56
AmpliTube X-GEAR
6.3 AMP Module (Amp Head)
6.3.1 Introduction
ToaccesstheAMPmodule,clicktheAMPbuttonontheModuleSelector.Therearetwoseparateamplifiermodulesthatcanbeaccessedindependently(e.g.AmpAandAmpB),orparalleledfordualampsetups.Justselect�ofthe8routingpresetslocatedtotheleftofthesignalpathdisplay(figure6.��).
To facilitate the amplifier models navigation, please read the followinguniversalcontrolsdescriptions:
BYPASS:thiscontroldisablestheAMPmodulefromtheplug-in’ssignal(figure6.��).
EQ MATCH:thiscontrolautomaticallyselectstheassociatedEQsectionfor thepreampthat isselected (figure6.�4).This isveryusefulwhentryingtoquicklyselectaspecificguitarampwithitscorrectEQModel.
figure6.�4
figure6.��
figure6.��
6 - Modules 57
AmpliTube X-GEAR
AMP MATCH:theampmatchcontrolselectstheassociatedpowerampstagefortheselectedpreamp(figure6.�5).
figure6.�5
Thesecontrolssimplifyselectingcompleteguitaramps.Theseareveryuse-fulwhentryingtouseaspecificvintageorboutiqueguitarrig.
6.3.2 Model Components
TheAMPmoduleisdividedintothreeseparatemodels:
PREEQAMP
Thisallowsyoutocreatecustomamps,choosingdifferentcomponentsfromeach“PoweredbyAmpliTube”application.
Thanks to AmpliTube X-GEAR, you can choose a PRE model included inAmpliTube�,andanEQmodelfromAmpliTubeJimiHendrix.
PRE MODEL:thefirststageintheAMPmodule(figure6.�6).Thissectionmodelstheinitialpreampanddrivestagesofthevariousamplifiers.
figure6.�6
�.�.�.
6 - Modules58
AmpliTube X-GEAR
EQ MODEL:theEQstagefollowsthePREModel(figure6.�7).Now,itispossibletodesigntop-notchcustomguitartones.
figure6.�7
AMP MODEL:thefinalstageoftheamplifiermoduleistheAMPmodel(figure6.�8).Asdifferentpowerampdesignsaffectthesoundofagui-taramplifierdifferently,itisextremelyvaluabletohavethispartoftheamplifiermodeledseparately.Now,youcanuseaFender-stylepowerampsectiononaMarshall-stylepreamp.
figure6.�8
6 - Modules 59
AmpliTube X-GEAR
6.4 CAB Module (Cabinets + Microphones)
6.4.1 Introduction
ToopenuptheCabinetmodule,clicktheCABbuttononthemoduleselector.There are twomodels in theCABmodule: theSPEAKERMODEL) and theMICMODEL.
6.4.2 SPEAKER MODEL
TheSPEAKERMODEL(figure6.�9)featuresseveralspeakercabinetemula-tions,aplug-inbypasscontrol,andacabinetmatchswitch.
figure6.�9
SPEAKER MODEL:allowsyoutoselectthedifferentcabinetmodels.
BYPASS:bypassestheCABmoduleoftheplug-in.
MATCH:automaticallyselects thecabinet tomatch thepreampthat isselectedintheAMPmodule.
6 - Modules60
AmpliTube X-GEAR
6.4.3 MIC MODEL
TheMICMODEL(figure6.�0)featuresseveralmicrophoneresponsemodelswithPosition(On/OffAxis)andDistance(Near/Far)options.
figure6.�0
MIC MODEL:throughthisselector,youareabletoselectthemicrophonemodeltouse(figure6.��).
figure6.��
POSITION:throughthisselector,youareabletochangethepositionofthemicrophoneinrelationshiptotheconeofthespeaker(figure6.��).
ON AXIS:On-Axismeansthatthemicrophoneisinthecenterofthespeaker(figure6.��).Typically,OnAxispositiondeliversamorepres-enttonalbalancewithmorehighfrequencies.ThiscanbetoobrightorharshforsomeAmpsettings,inthiscasetrytheOffAxisposition.
OFF AXIS:Off-Axismeansthatthemicrophoneispositionedattheoutside edge of the speaker (figure 6.�4). This delivers a darker,sweetertonethanOnAxis.
figure6.�� figure6.�4
figure6.��
6 - Modules 6�
AmpliTube X-GEAR
DISTANCE:viathisselector,youcanchangethedistanceofthemicro-phoneinrelationtothespeakercabinet(figure6.�5).
NEAR:nearisobviouslyclosetothespeaker.Usually,Nearpositiondeliversmorebasspresenceduetotheproximityeffect(figure6.�6).
FAR:positionsthemicrophonefurtherawayfromthespeakercabi-net,deliveringalighterbassresponse(figure6.�7).
figure6.�6 figure6.�7
TIPS:If youwant toobtainmorepresentanddetailed clean sounds,youcanvirtuallymicupyourCABusingtheOnAxispositionandClosedistancesettings.Now,ifyoufeelthatthesoundistoobigforyourmix,changethemicdistancetoFar.Ingeneral,extremelyhighgainsoundsmatchwelltogetherwithan Off-Axis position and Close distance settings, (especially ifyouareusingabrightmicrophoneliketheDynamic57).
AMBIENCE:adjuststheamountofroomambiencethatismixedwiththemicrophonesignal(figure6.�8).
TIP:ambienceisSTEREOsotocompletelytakeadvantageofthisfeaturebe sure to use AmpliTube X-GEAR on a stereo track or bus, or use a“MonotoStereo”AmpliTubeX-GEARinstance.
•
•
figure6.�5
figure6.�8
6 - Modules6�
AmpliTube X-GEAR
6.5 RACK FX Module (Post Effects)
Toaccess theAmpliTubeX-GEARRACKmodule, click theRACKbuttonontheModuleSelector.TherearetwoindependentRACKmodulesfeaturing4stereorackeffectseach.Theycanbeusedindependentlyortogetherforatotalof8rackeffects.
To select a rack unit, click on each of the 4 racks displays (where it says“Empty”), (figure 6.�9) and choose one of the available options or scrollthroughthedifferentrackeffectsusingtheUp/Downarrows(figure6.40).
figure6.40
figure6.�9
7 - Automation 6�
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Chapter 7 Automation
AmpliTubeX-GEARhaslotsofparameters,morethanwhattypicallyaudiosequencers(DAWs)cansupport.Forthisreason,AmpliTubeX-GEARhasitsowninternalAutomationParameterassignmentwindow(figure7.�).
figure7.�
TheAutomationwindowincludestwopanes.TheLeftPaneiscalledPlug-in,andtheRightPaneiscalledDAWAutomation.
7 - Automation64
AmpliTube X-GEAR
7.1 Left Pane
TheLeftPanedisplaysAmpliTubeX-GEARGlobalandModuleparameters,aswellasalltheStomp,Amp,Cab,andRackModulesgearineachPoweredbyAmpliTubeapplicationinstalledonyourcomputer(figure7.�).
figure7.�
OnLeftPane,youwillbeabletoselectwhichAmpliTubeX-GEARparameteryouaregoingtoassigntoAutomation.
BecauseofAmpliTubeX-GEARdualrigsetup,eachModuleislistedseparatelyasStompA,StompB,AmpA,AmpB,CabA,CabB,andRackA,RackB(figure7.�).
figure7.�
Inadditiontothat,youcanassigntoAutomationeveryparameterofeverymodel in each Powered by AmpliTube application installed on your com-puter!Thisgivesyounearlyinfinitecreativepower!
7 - Automation 65
AmpliTube X-GEAR
7.2 Right Pane
TheRightPaneliststhe�6AutomationparametersthataredeclaredtotheDAW(figure7.4).
figure7.4
Theseparametersnames(Param�toParam�6)arefixedbecausemostDAWsdonotsupportautomationparameternamechangeswhiletheplug-inisopen.
ThroughtheRightPane,youwillbeabletoselectwhichDAWAutomationparameter#you’regoingtousefortheAmpliTubeX-GEARparameterprevi-ouslyselectedontheLeftpane.Forexample,ifyouselectedaChorusontheLeftpaneandthenclickADD,theRightPanewilldisplay:
Param�:Chorus-�(AT�)AChorus(figure7.5).
figure7.5
7 - Automation66
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Thismeans:
Param 1:DAWAutomationparameter#Chorus-1:theselectedStompModel(AT2):nameabbreviationof thePoweredbyAmpliTubeapplicationthatincludestheselectedStompModel.Inthiscase,AmpliTube�.A:RigAChorus:nameoftheparametertobeautomated
7.3 Assignment procedure
ToassignanAmpliTubeX-GEARparametertooneofthe�6DAWAutomationparameters,pleasefollowthesesimplesteps:
�.ClickonAutomation(figure7.6).
figure7.6
�.OnLeftPane,selectwhichAmpliTubeX-GEARparameteryouaregoingtoassigntoAutomation(figure7.7).
figure7.7
•••
••
7 - Automation 67
AmpliTube X-GEAR
�.OnRightPane,selectwhichDAWAutomationparameter#youaregoingtousefortheAmpliTubeX-GEARparameterpreviouslyselectedonstep#�(figure7.8).
figure7.8
4.ClickADDtoestablishtheactualassignment(figure7.9).
figure7.9
7 - Automation68
AmpliTube X-GEAR
5. Click OK to save the setup and close the Automation window (figure7.�0).
figure7.�0
Toremoveaparticularassignment,pleaseselectitandthenclickREMOVE(figure7.��).
figure7.��
Toremovetheentireassignments,clickREMOVEALL(figure7.��).
figure7.��
7 - Automation 69
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Tomoveup/downanassignmentclicktheMOVEUP/MOVEDOWNarrows(figure7.��).
figure7.��
Forexample,ifaWahisassignedto“Param�”,youcanmovetheWahto“Param�”byselecting“Param�”andclickingontheMovedownarrow.Thisisaveryusefulfeaturebecauseitsavesyoutoremovetheassignmentfrom“Param�”andcreateanewassignmentfor“Param�”.
7.4 Assignment Save and Recall
ClickingOKwillsaveandclosetheAutomationwindow.
IfyouareusingAmpliTubeX-GEARasplug-in,theautomationassignmentmapwillbestoredandrestoredtoandfromthesessionyou’reworkingon.
EachAmpliTubeX-GEARinstance is independent fromtheothersandcanhavedifferentAutomationassignmentssetup.ThismeansthatsavingyourDAWsession,will saveeach theautomationsetup foreachAmpliTubeX-GEARinstance.
7.5 Automation with StompIO
AStompIOswitchorpedalactioncouldbewrittentoyouraudiosequenc-er (DAW) automation ONLY if StompIO controls are assigned to activeAmpliTubeX-GEARparameters.
For example, if you are playing a StompIO patch that includes a WahcontrolledbyaStompIOpedal, youneed toassign theWahparameter toautomation(byusingtheAutomationwindow),andsetyourDAWtorecordautomation. In thisway, youwill be able to record yourWahmovements
7 - Automation70
AmpliTube X-GEAR
throughtheStompIOpedal,byactuallyrecordingtheWahparametermove-mentstotheDAWautomation.
8 - MIDI 7�
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Chapter 8 MIDI
AmpliTubeX-GEARbasicfunctionscanbeMIDIcontrolledviaCC#(ControlChangenumber)MIDImessages.
8.1 MIDI Configuration
MIDIcanbesetup forusinganexternalMIDIcontroller forVolume/Wahchanges, turningeffectsOnandOff,andpreset changes. In thebottomoftheAudioMIDISet-upwindow,selecttheMIDIinputthatisconnectedtotheMIDIcontroller.Now,theLearnbuttoncanbeusedtoassignMIDIcontrollermessagestoeachoftheselectedAmpliTubeX-GEARparameters.
8.2 MIDI Control
To controlAmpliTubeX-GEARbasic functions throughMIDIplease followtheseeasysteps:
�.ClicktheMIDIbutton(figure8.�).
figure8.�
�.Clickontheparameterthatyouwanttocontrol(figure8.�).
figure8.�
8 - MIDI7�
AmpliTube X-GEAR
�.ClicktheLEARNbutton(figure8.�).
figure8.�
4.FromyourMIDIFootControllerorMIDIKeyboardController,selectafader,knob,sliderorswitchandmove/pressit.
5.IntheMIDIControlwindow,theStompASlot�parameterithasnowaspecificCC#valueAssociatedtoit,inthiscase“80”(figure8.4).
figure8.4
8 - MIDI 7�
AmpliTube X-GEAR
6.ClickOK to save theassociationandclose theMIDIControlwindow,orCANCELtoeraseit(figure8.5).
figure8.5
TocontrolmoreAmpliTubeX-GEARparametersthroughMIDI,pleaserepeattheaforementionedsteps.
Note: if you are planning to set several AmpliTube X-GEAR parameters /MIDICC#associationsatthesamemoment,it isnotnecessarytoclickOKaftereachassociation.JustclickOKafteryoufinishallyourassociationsandtheywillbeautomaticallysaved.
TodeleteaparticularAmpliTubeX-GEARparameter/MIDICC#association,selectit,andclickCLEAR(figure8.6).
figure8.6
8 - MIDI74
AmpliTube X-GEAR
TodeleteallAmpliTubeX-GEARparameters/MIDICC#associations,clickCLEARALL(figure8.7).
figure8.7
NotethatAmpliTubeX-GEARMIDIimplementationdescribedhereistotallyindependent anddifferent fromStompIOMIDI, (that is fully describedonStompIO User Manual), and it works independently from StompIO MIDIports.
9 - Troubleshooting 75
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Chapter 9 Troubleshooting
Where can I find my IK product Serial Number?
TheSerialNumber iswrittenon theRegistrationCard (includedwithyour IKproduct, inside the licenseenvelope). In the snapshot; pleasecheckitsexactlocation(figure9.�).
figure9.�
�)YoucanfindyourSERIALNUMBERhere
�)AtthebottomoftheregistrationcardalegendhelpsyouidentifythecharactersinyourSERIALNUMBER
Forclearcharactersidentification,pleaseanalyzethelegend.IMPORTANT: the number zero can easily be identified in your SerialNumberbecauseitiscrossedbyaline.
Why is the Wizard rejecting my Serial Number?
Probablybecauseitfoundatypo,sopleaseanalyzethecommonerrors:*Typinga0(“zero”number)insteadofanO(“o”letter)*Typing�(“one”number)insteadofanI(“i”letter)*Typing�(“two”number)insteadofanZ(“z”letter)*Typing5(“five”number)insteadofanS(“s”letter)*Typing8(“eight”number)insteadofanB(“b”letter)*Typinga“.”(point)insteadofa“-”(minus)
9 - Troubleshooting76
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Suggestions:
Wheneverispossible,pleaseCopyandPastetheinformation.Cutoffalltheleadingandtrailingspaces.Please type all codes UPPERCASE during the Installation andRegistrationprocess.Check that theSerial number that you are entering ismatches theproductinstalled.
During the Product Registration process I received this message: The Serial Number is already registered...
Remember that you are able to register your product only once. So, ifyou are trying to get a newAuthorization Code, please go to our FAQpageatwww.ikmultimedia.com/faqandreadthe“HowcanIgetanewAuthorizationCode?”FAQ.
Where can I find my Digital ID?
TheDigitalIDisdisplayedintheAuthorizationwindowofyourIKproduct(figure9.�).
figure9.�
•••
•
9 - Troubleshooting 77
AmpliTube X-GEAR
Why is my Digital ID being rejected during the Online Registration process?
There probably is a typo on it. Remember that theDigital ID hasNOletter“I”and“O”,onlythenumbers“�”(one)and“0”(zero). Inorderto prevent any furthermistakes, please Copy the Digital ID from theAuthorizationFormtotheRegistrationForm.
Where can I find my Serial Number, Digital ID, and the Authorization Code of a registered IK Product?
In your IKproduct interface, locate theAuthorizationbutton (theonewithasmall lockon it)andclickon it. IfyourproductversionhasnoAuthorizationbutton,loginintotheUserArea,andclickAuthorizations.You will be able to check your product Serial Number. Then clickon Request New. You will be able to check the Digital ID and theAuthorizationCodeinformation.
How can I get a new Authorization Code?
PleasegotoourFAQpageatwww.ikmultimedia.com/faqandreadthe“HowcanIgetanewAuthorizationCode?”FAQ.
I have already registered my product online, but I did not get an Authorization Code.
Usually, this happens because the Digital IDwas not submitted dur-ingtheregistrationprocess.InordertogetanewAuthorizationCode,pleasegotoourFAQpageatwww.ikmultimedia.com/faqandreadthe“HowcanIgetanewAuthorizationCode?”FAQ.
I need to log in into the User Area but I forgot my User Name and Password. What should I do?
Pleasegotowww.ikmultimedia.com.OnthenavigationbarclickUserArea.Onthetopleft,pleaseclickonthe"Iforgotmyusernameand/orpassword"link,locatedbelowtheloginbutton.
I have already installed, registered, and authorized my IK product in my main computer. What do I have to do to use my IK product in other computers?
You need to install the program and get a new Authorization Code.PleasegotoourFAQpageatwww.ikmultimedia.com/faqandreadthe“HowcanIgetanewAuthorizationCode?”FAQ.
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I just bought an IK product. What should I do to register and authorize my new product?
Visitourwebsitewww.ikmultimedia.com IntheSupportArea,clickontheProductRegistrationlink.
In the Serial Number field of the Product Registration Form, pleaseinsert the Serial Number written on the Registration Card (includedwith your IK boxed product, inside the license envelope) or the onethathasbeendeliveredtoyou(e.g.Onlinepurchase,suchasaDigitalDelivery,orupdate).
CompletetheRegistrationFormandclickSubmit.
RegardingtheAuthorizationprocess,ifyoualreadytypedyourDigitalID while filling the Product Registration Form, you will receive anemailfromuswithyourAuthorizationCode.Ifnot,afteryoulaunchtheprogramtheProductAuthorizationWizardwillappear.Pleasereadandfollowtheinstructionsprovidedineachofthewizard’swindowsandgetanAuthorizationCode.
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Chapter 10 Support
Foranyquestionyoumayhave,pleaserefertotheFAQwebpageat:www.ikmultimedia.com/faqHereyouwillfindanswerstothemostcommonquestions.
TosubmitaTechnicalSupportForm,goto:www.ikmultimedia.com/Support.php
TocontactUSTechSupportServicebyphone,pleasecallat(954)846-9866
ForotherrequestssuchasProduct,Sales,orWebinfo,pleasegoto:www.ikmultimedia.com/ContactIKForm.php
10.1 User Area
TheUserArea isaspecialsectionofourwebsitespecificallydesignedforourusers'needs.
ThroughtheUserArea,eachmemberofourregisteredusersdatabasewillbeableto:
EdityourPersonaldataManageyourproductsAuthorizationCodesDownloadthelatestproductsupdatesandfreecontentTransferyourLicense
ToaccesstheUserAreagoto:www.ikmultimedia.com/userareaor go towww.ikmultimedia.com and clickUserArea from thenavigationbar.
To enter to the User Area for the first time, you have to Log in with theUsernameandPasswordthatyou’vereceivedfromusviaemailafteryourfirstIKproductregistration.IfyouhavealreadychangedyourUsernameandPassword,pleaseuseyourmostcurrentinformationtoLogin.
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AmpliTube®,AmpliTube®�,AmpliTube®Metal™,andAmpliTube®X-GEAR™aretrademarksorregisteredtrademarkspropertyofIKMultimediaProductionSrl.AMPEG®isaregisteredtrademarkofLOUDTechnologies,Inc.usedunderlicense.SVX™isatrademarkofIKMultimediaProductionSrl.JimiHendrix™nameusedunderlicenseofAuthenticHendrix,LCC.AuthenticHendrix™isatrademarkof©AuthenticHendrix,LLC.Allotherregisteredtrademarksand
trademarksarepropertyoftheirrespectiveowners.www.amplitube.com/x-gear
IK Multimedia Production Srl,Viadell’Industria46,4��00,Modena,Italy.Phone:+�9-059-�85496-Fax:+�9-059-�86�67�
IK Multimedia US LLC,��5�SawgrassCorporatePkwy.Sunrise,FL�����Phone:(954)846-9�0�-Fax:(954)846-9077
www.ikmultimedia.com
Allspecificationsaresubjecttochangewithoutfurthernotice.