Neural DSP announced the release of two newly updated plugins: the Soldano SLO-100 X and the Fortin Nameless Suite X. These meticulously crafted plugins capture the essence of two of the most revered high-gain amplifiers in guitar history, offering an unparalleled level of sonic authenticity and versatility for guitarists of all genres.
Neural DSP Updates 2024
We checked out the newly updated Soldano SLO-100 X and the Fortin Nameless Suite X from Neural DSP.
Neural DSP was kind enough to send us the newly updated software, and we spent the last month checking it out in the studio, using a host of guitars and trying out various tones on different projects.
High-End Amp Emulations
These two plugins are based on Mike Soldano’s SLO-100 and Mike Fortin’s Nameless amplifiers. In the real world, these high-end, much sought-after boutique tube amplifiers are precisely what modern players want to use. However, they are bulky, expensive, and very loud!
Free Upgrade
Neural DSP has refined both plugins, giving each a more realistic feel and tone.
Thankfully, both plugins are priced competitively. If you already own the original versions, you are eligible for a free upgrade to the new X versions of each plugin.
The official MSRP for both plugins is €119 each, which we feel offers fantastic value for money.
Soldano SLO-100 X: The American High-Gain Icon, Reimagined
The Soldano SLO-100 is legendary for delivering a wide range of tones, from pristine cleans to thick, saturated leads. The newly updated Soldano SLO-100 X faithfully recreates this iconic amp, offering guitarists a wealth of features to explore:
- Four meticulously modeled pre-effects: Compressor, Boost (OD1), Overdrive (OD2), and Vintage Chorus.
- Two versatile channels: “Normal” for pristine cleans and “Overdrive” for high-gain aggression.
- Comprehensive EQ section: 9-band graphic EQ with high and low pass filters for total tonal control.
- Advanced Cabsim module: Hundreds of impulse responses (IRs) captured by Neural DSP, six virtual microphones for precise speaker positioning, and the ability to load your IR files.
- All-new post effects: Classic, smooth delay, and reverb processors to craft the perfect ambiance.
- Modern features for the digital guitarist include a transpose for instant tuning changes, a Doubler for emulated double-tracked recordings, a built-in tuner, and a metronome (standalone only).
Soldano SLO-100 X is a free update for existing users. Visit the Neural DSP website to learn more and make a purchase.
Fortin Nameless Suite X: Brutal Metal Tones, Redefined
The Fortin Nameless amplifier is a favorite among extreme metal guitarists for its brutally tight and aggressive sound. The Fortin Nameless Suite X takes this legacy to the next level, offering a comprehensive suite of features for crafting the heaviest tones imaginable:
- Three meticulously modeled Fortin stompboxes: GRIND for enhanced clarity at high gain, ZUUL noise gate for transparent noise reduction, and HEXDRIVE overdrive pedal for a unique blend of boost and overdrive.
- Single-channel, 50-watt all-tube amp model: Delivers the raw power and aggression that metal guitarists crave.
- New Transpose and Doubler features: Quickly change tuning and create massive double-tracked sounds.
- Advanced Cabsim and IR Loader: Hundreds of IRs, six virtual microphones, and the ability to load your IR files.
- Powerful 9-band graphic EQ: Sculpt your tone with precision.
- All-new Delay and Reverb processors: Create expansive soundscapes and unique ambient effects.
- Built-in tuner and metronome (standalone only).
Fortin Nameless Suite X is a free update for existing users. Visit the Neural DSP website to learn more and make a purchase.
System Requirements
Neural DSP software runs on Windows and Mac VST/VST3, AU, and AAX and is also available Standalone. It is compatible with the latest OS, including Native Apple Silicon. A free iLok License Manager and iLok account are needed.
Guitar Bomb Verdict
With the Soldano SLO-100 X and Fortin Nameless Suite X, Neural DSP continues to push the boundaries of guitar amp simulation. These powerful plugins offer guitarists of all styles the tools they need to create their signature sound. We loved both plugins’ simplicity, ease of use, and clean user interface.
Overall, they feel like real amplifiers, and we had no issues getting them to sit in the mix within our Logic sessions. If you want these high-end, high-gain amp tones in your DAW, these top-tier plugins offer a wealth of very useable tones.
We were impressed that these software emulations had no EQ smearing or digital fuzziness. They both do an excellent job of recreating a real tube amp. Your guitar’s voice still shines through, allowing the instrument’s character to impart itself within recorded tracks.
Doubler and Transposer
The new Doubler and Transposer in the SLO X model and a wealth of new presets are welcome additions to this already excellent value plugin. The same goes for the Nameless Suite X, which shares these updates. Then, there is the super helpful 9-band graphic EQ, tuner, and metronome. All these enhancements make the suites more usable and user-friendly within a project.
Both pre and post-effects are great for adding extra spice or fattening leads. Again, the clean user interface makes them a joy to use, and they work seamlessly within the plugins.
For this review, we used Logic Pro on two Apple Silicon systems, and both packages performed flawlessly on either setup.
The great thing for potential new owners is that Neural DSP offers a 14-day free trial of its plugins, so you can try them before you buy. Overall, we feel Neural DSP has knocked it out of the park regarding amp voicings and making these emulations feel and sound like the real thing.
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