Amplifier modeling

Amplifier modeling is the use of solid state or digital signal processing technology to emulate the sound and functionality of traditional, typically vacuum tube-based, guitar amplifiers. Since the technology's inception, amplifier modelers have generally sought to give players access to a large collection of notable amplifier models at a much lower cost with greater convenience than buying real amps.

Modelers come in many formats, including desktop processors, rackmount units, floorboards, stompboxes, and audio plug-ins. Most emulate not only amplifier models, but speaker cabinets, microphones, and effects. Modelers became prominent in the 1990s with analog pedals like the Tech 21 Sansamp and digital processors like the Line 6 POD. In the 2000s, the Fractal Audio Axe-FX and Kemper Profiler established the viability of digital modeling for professional musicians. Further advancement of the technology and the introduction of lower-cost options has helped create a technological revolution in the industry and sparked a long-running debate over the merits of tube-based amplifiers compared to modelers.