FreeAMP

Name: FreeAMP
Author: Klevgrand

by Klevgrand · Saturation · Tape and tube saturator

Not rated yet

FreeAMP is a free one-knob saturation plugin from Klevgrand that combines a modeled tape algorithm with tube saturation.

It is a stripped-down version of the developer's REAMP and is free with a Klevgrand account.

Best for: Mix Bus, Drums, Bass, Keys & Synths, Vocals, Guitars. Genres: all genres.

Keywords: tape, tube, free, minimal controls, simple, beginner-friendly, electric guitar, full mix, overdrive, clean, parallel processing, vintage, bass, bus processing, drums, mix bus, mixing, single-band, single knob, vocals, warm.

What it does

FreeAMP is a free saturation plugin taken from Klevgrand's REAMP gear modeler. It uses one universal profile, a "carefully trimmed combination" of a modelled tape algorithm and a tube algorithm, behind a very simple interface.

One profile: a single profile that blends tape and tube saturation, built from favourite profiles in REAMP.
Drive: sets how much saturation is applied.
Blend: mixes the processed and dry signal for parallel saturation.
Output: Production Expert also lists an output control for keeping the level in check.
Any source: meant for single tracks, stems or full mixes.
REAMP sibling: a stripped-down version of Klevgrand's paid REAMP, which offers more profiles.

Version 1.0.7 is free.

Source: Klevgrand product page

When to use it

FreeAMP gives you one tape-plus-tube flavour with almost nothing to set up, at no cost. Compared with Decapitator or Radiator, it has no style choices, tone controls or filters, so it is far less flexible but quicker to use. Softube's Saturation Knob is the closest match in spirit: both are minimal, but FreeAMP adds a Blend control for parallel use. Against Klanghelm's IVGI, another low-cost saturator, it has fewer controls and no asymmetry or response options. It is a sensible first saturator to try before paying for more.

Best for: quick, free warmth on tracks, stems and mixes, and clean vintage overdrive on guitars.
Genres: all genres.
Look elsewhere if: you want to choose the saturation style or shape the tone; Decapitator or Klevgrand's own REAMP give more options.
Tip: a KVR user stacks two instances for a stronger, still clean overdrive.

What producers say

The few write-ups we found are positive about the sound and simplicity, with no real criticisms.

Production Expert said it "sounds great" and is easy to use, with distortion easily tamed by the output and mix controls.
KVR users 5 out of 5 from 1 review (2022, v1.04): "nice, simple, but quite good sounding", with sparkling treble and a Fender-like vintage overdrive on guitar through cabinet IRs.

Where to buy

Klevgrand: Free
Plugin Boutique: Free

Tutorials and reviews

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