“Everything you need to create truly iconic tones”: Fractal Audio brings Axe-Fx modelling to DAWs with ICONS, its first-ever plugin
Known for its high-end Axe-Fx processors, Fractal Audio has now made the leap to native software with ICONS – a new line of amp-modelling plugins and standalone applications that brings its acclaimed modelling and effects tones directly to DAWs and desktop setups.
The brand’s debut series, ICONS: Fullerton, centres on classic American-style amps, delivering 36 models inspired by some of Fender’s most iconic designs from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s and beyond. With “Deluxes, Bassguys, Double-Verbs, Vibrato Verbs, Supers, Princetones, Champlifiers and more” on offer, we’ve got quite the comprehensive tour of the vintage Fender canon.
At the heart of ICONS is Fractal Audio’s advanced amp modeling, which recreates analogue circuits at the component level so that “each model sounds, feels, and responds just like the real thing at any setting.” In practice, that means you can dial in the model the same way you would the physical amp.
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Each ICONS volume includes DynaCab selections chosen specifically to complement its included amp types. You can position a virtual mic on a virtual speaker and hear the results in real time – just as with traditional analogue gear.
The package also includes a selection of stompbox and studio effects based on the same algorithms used in the flagship Axe-Fx. These include authentic spring reverb and tremolo, more than a dozen accurate drive pedals, plus delay, compressor, GEQ, additional reverbs, and more.
That said, “ICONS is not an Axe-Fx in software,” says Fractal. “Its effect blocks feature streamlined types and controls that make it fast and natural to create great, complete tones centered on the amp and cab.”
Additional features include a modern preset manager, complete with tags, favourites, and metadata to keep you organised and focused on creating. ICONS also includes an input calibration system for third-party interfaces and features near-instant setup when used with Fractal Audio hardware.
“With support for automation, MIDI control, and essential tools like a built-in tuner, ICONS is designed to fit seamlessly into modern recording and performance workflows,” says the company. “ICONS delivers the sound and feel that Fractal Audio is known for – now available for your DAW or desktop, with everything you need to create truly iconic tones.”
The full ICONS: Fullerton suite is available now for $299; individual volumes are priced at $99 each.
For more information, head to Fractal Audio.
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Source: www.guitar-bass.net
