What Is Neural Amp Modeler (NAM)?
Neural Amp Modeler (NAM) is a free, open‑source guitar amp modeling platform that uses neural networks to capture and recreate the sound and feel of real guitar amplifiers, pedals, and signal chains with remarkable accuracy.
Instead of relying on traditional digital modeling, NAM learns how real gear actually behaves. The result is authentic, mix‑ready guitar tone — without the cost or limitations of dedicated hardware.
Whether you’re recording at home, producing metal tracks in a DAW, or exploring modern amp modeling for the first time, NAM has quickly become one of the most powerful tools available to guitarists.
What Makes Neural Amp Modeler Different?
Most amp modelers rely on algorithms that simulate how an amp should behave. NAM works differently.
Neural Amp Modeler uses machine learning to capture the real behavior of an amplifier or signal chain by analyzing how it responds to input across a wide range of dynamics. This allows NAM to reproduce subtle characteristics like:
Pick attack and transient response
Gain structure and saturation behavior
Low‑end tightness and note separation
The way an amp cleans up or compresses
In short, NAM captures behavior, not just tone.
Key differences:
Neural network‑based captures, not algorithmic models
Can capture amps, pedals, or full signal chains
Extremely realistic feel under the fingers
Lightweight plugin with minimal CPU use
Is Neural Amp Modeler Free?
Yes — Neural Amp Modeler (NAM) itself is completely free.
The official NAM plugin is hosted on GitHub. While GitHub can look technical, you only need one file — and it takes just a minute to download.
👉 Official download page:
https://github.com/sdatkinson/NeuralAmpModelerPlugin/releases/tag/v0.7.13
Which file should I download?
Windows users:
DownloadNeuralAmpModeler-v0.7.13-win.zipmacOS users:
DownloadNeuralAmpModeler-v0.7.13-mac.dmg
👉 Ignore all other files on the page — they are for developers and debugging only.
Once downloaded:
macOS: Open the
.dmgand install like a normal Mac pluginWindows: Unzip the file and place the plugin in your VST folder
NAM profiles, however, can be free or paid, depending on the creator. Professional profile packs — like Necro Tones — focus on proper gain staging, tight low end, and mix-ready tone rather than raw, unfiltered captures.
NAM profiles, however, can be either:
Free (community captures)
Paid (professionally captured and curated profiles)
Professional packs — like Necro Tones NAM profiles — focus on consistency, gain staging, and mix‑ready results rather than raw, unfiltered captures.
How Does NAM Compare to Kemper, Helix, and Quad Cortex?
NAM is often compared to popular hardware modelers, but it fills a slightly different role.
Hardware modelers (Kemper, Helix, Quad Cortex):
Dedicated hardware units
Higher upfront cost
Designed for live and studio use
Self‑contained ecosystem
Neural Amp Modeler:
Software‑based (plugin)
Free platform
Runs inside a DAW or plugin host
Extremely accurate captures without hardware cost
NAM delivers top‑tier tone quality comparable to high‑end hardware, but requires a computer‑based setup. For recording and production — especially metal — this is often an advantage rather than a limitation.
What Are NAM Profiles?
NAM profiles are neural captures of real guitar gear.
A profile can represent:
A single amplifier head
An amp paired with a boost pedal
An amp with cab and mic chain
A full studio signal chain
Each profile reflects exactly how that setup responds to your playing.
At Necro Tones, NAM profiles are designed specifically for metal production, focusing on:
Tight low end
Controlled gain
Consistent output levels
Mix‑ready tone that works with real drums and bass
How Do You Use Neural Amp Modeler?
Using NAM is straightforward:
Download and install the Neural Amp Modeler plugin
Load it in your DAW or plugin host
Open a NAM profile
Play and record
Many NAM profiles — including Necro Tones profiles — are captured as complete, mix-ready signal chains, so no additional setup is required.
NAM integrates easily into modern recording workflows and works alongside other plugins like EQ, compression, and effects.
Can You Use NAM for Metal?
Absolutely.
NAM has become especially popular among metal guitarists because of its ability to reproduce:
High‑gain amp saturation without fizz
Tight palm‑muted low end
Fast transient response for extreme picking
Both old‑school and modern metal tones
From old‑school death metal to modern black metal and beyond, NAM excels at aggressive guitar tones when paired with properly captured profiles.
Why Choose Necro Tones NAM Profiles?
Necro Tones NAM profiles are built specifically for serious metal production.
Each pack is:
Captured with professional gain staging
Designed for tight rhythm tracking
Balanced for real mixes — not bedroom hype
Consistent across profiles and packs
The goal isn’t exaggerated loudness or artificial excitement — it’s usable tone that works in real songs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a DI box to use NAM?
A clean DI signal is recommended for best results, but many modern interfaces work well without a separate DI box.
Can I use NAM live?
NAM is primarily designed for studio and DAW use, but it can be used live with a laptop‑based rig.
Does NAM replace Helix or Kemper?
NAM doesn’t replace hardware for everyone, but for recording and production, it offers comparable tone quality at a fraction of the cost.
Explore Neural Amp Modeler Profiles for Metal
Looking for professional NAM profiles built specifically for extreme metal?
Explore Necro Tones by Necro Grooves Neural Amp Modeler profiles — designed for tight rhythm tracking, brutal gain, and real‑world production.
