Hardware amplifier tone controls vary among models and manufacturers. For example, the treble knobs on two different models may target different frequencies or provide different levels of cut or boost. Some equalizer (EQ) sections amplify the guitar signal more than others, thus affecting the way the amp distorts.
Amp Designer provides multiple EQ types to mirror these variations in hardware amplifiers. All EQ types have identical controls—Bass, Mids, and Treble—but these controls can behave very differently depending on which EQ type you choose.
Selecting an EQ type other than the one traditionally associated with an amplifier usually results in significant tonal changes. As with hardware amplifiers, Amp Designer EQs are calibrated to perform well with particular amplifier models. Choosing other EQ types can sometimes produce a thin or unpleasantly distorted tone.
Despite these less pleasant-sounding possibilities, it is worth experimenting with various amplifier and EQ combinations, because many can sound good together.
EQ pop-up menu: Click the word EQ or CUSTOM EQ to choose an EQ type. Each EQ model has unique tonal qualities. See Amp Designer EQ types.
Bass, Mids, and Treble knobs: Adjust the EQ frequency ranges as you would with tone knobs on a hardware guitar amplifier. The behavior and response of these knobs changes when different EQ models are chosen.