The latest wave of technology to reach into our musical world is a process called modeling. Modeling uses algorithms and microcircuitry to reproduce the signal characteristics of everything from classic amplifiers to pickups to microphones. The list of manufacturers racing to contribute their entry into this new gear pool is growing exponentially.

Amp modeling reproduces the signal flow of various amplifiers. The idea is to provide the player a seemingly limitless array of amplifiers in one tidy, affordable package. Imagin trucking around twenty different amps. For one song, you choose one amp, switch to a different to take a solo, and on to various amps at different times as you play through the rest of the set. That might work in the studio (assuming that the budget supports it) but, in the live world, one amp is usually all that is practical. Modeling is intended to provide a practical solution for the player who damands the flexability of a multi-amp setup.

Pickup modeling provides a means of recreating the characteristics of various pickup configurations. Some amps have the ability to respond as though the pickup configuration of your choosing is plugged into the amp, regardless of what pickus are in the guitar. According to manufacturers, a player can be playing from a neck position double coil. The sound; however, could be that of middle and bridge position single coils, out of phase.

Speaker modeling allows the player to select the type and size of speakers and cabinet design the amp will recreate. The idea is that you haul around a combo amp, but have at your fingertips, every imaginable combination of amp and speakers.

Another benefit is that these amps have built in digital effects processors. These are serious processors too. Everything from high resolution reverbs and delays to chorus, phase shifting and everything else are integrated into their circuitry. This can be a huge savings in both space and cash.

Modeling technology is here to stay. Does it work? The market is responding with a resounding yes. Purists and devotees of certain amplifiers; however, will find that, while modeling gets close in sound to many classic amps, the feel and many nuances are lost. There can be no question that this latest technology is nothing short of amazing. Before rushing out to buy one of these techno-marvels, play them all. Consider your needs and budget. Compare them to other amps you know you like. You'll be rewarded with years of great tone!