Hardware/software combo a good fit for iPhone

MacNN has reviewed a new hardware/iPhone app combination for guitar players, AmpliTube iRig. Users can configure a mobile guitar amp with sound effects software hosted on an iPhone. The hardware is an interface adapter for connecting a 1/4-inch plug instrument with the iPhone's audio port, and outputting to an 1/8-inch stereo feed. The adapter is said to be very rugged, fit for life in a guitar bag.

The iPhone app is described as producing good sound quality, and offering numerous tone design options. It includes 11 stompbox effects, 5 amp models, 5 cabinet models and 2 microphone simulations, all of which can be combined in different ways. It can also store up to 32 presets, though numeric naming may be confusing with large collections of presets. At the same time, a strength of the app is thought to be its clean settings.

The software works with the iPhone and iPod touch, and is free in basic form on the iTunes App Store. A $3 version adds extra effects, with more available a-la-carte. The tested edition offers full features for $20. The iRig hardware is $40.

by MacNN Staff