TONEX MAX Upgrade by IK Multimedia amp simulator plugin interface

TONEX MAX Upgrade: AI Tone Modeling Plugin by IK Multimedia

TONEX MAX Upgrade is an amp simulator plugin from IK Multimedia that creates, plays and shares AI-modeled Tone Models of amps, cabinets, combos and pedals. It is available as VST3, VST2, AU and AAX on Windows and macOS.

VST3VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit
AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique
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01Overview

TONEX MAX Upgrade is built around Tone Models, which are virtual copies of amps, cabinets, combos and pedals made from your own gear. The software can run as a standalone application or as a plugin inside your DAW. Alongside your own models, it gives access to a library of Premium Tone Models and a large collection of user-shared models on ToneNET. The developer describes the modeling as capturing a rig in true-to-life detail. The plugin includes 15 effects, including delays, modulation, reverbs, a compressor and a noise gate.

Best for

  • Guitar amp modeling
  • Bass tone capture
  • Recording with Tone Models
  • Live rig practice
  • Sharing custom tones
  • Guitar effects chains
Developer
IK Multimedia
Store
Plugin Boutique
02Key features

What you get

  • Standalone application and plugin to create, play and share Tone Models
  • Models amps, cabinets, combos and pedals such as distortion, overdrive, fuzz, EQ and boost
  • Model creation in as little as 5 minutes per model on modern computers
  • 15 effects including two delays, chorus, flanger, tremolo, phaser and rotary
  • Six reverbs, a compressor and a noise gate included among the effects
  • Seven effects blocks configurable before or after the amp and cabinet
  • Browse and demo Tone Models on ToneNET, including TONEX Signature and Tone Partner collections
  • Upload your own Tone Models to ToneNET to share with other TONEX users
03In depth

AI Tone Modeling and Playing Your Rig

TONEX models gear using a guided process. The built-in assistant walks you through hardware connection and modeling, from a single element to a complete rig. Modeling uses a prepared audio file of real guitar or bass signals rather than test tones. A neural network then computes the model, which the developer says takes minutes. Modeled gear can be combined in any order, and each model can be given a custom skin and keywords before you upload it.

The Player lets you play, practice and record in standalone mode or inside a DAW. Tone Models can also be used alongside AmpliTube 5 gear in custom signal chains, and presets can be saved for recall and sharing on ToneNET.

Seven of the 15 effects blocks can be placed before or after the amp and cabinet, which gives you control over where effects sit in the chain.

Library, ToneNET and Included Models

TONEX MAX Upgrade gives access to ToneNET, IK's online tone-sharing platform. You can search, filter, demo and download user Tone Models from inside the software or through a web browser. Models you select are available for download the next time you open TONEX.

The Upgrade includes the Premium Tone Models that are part of the TONEX MAX collection, and unlimited creation of your own models. Eligibility for the upgrade is described on the developer's page and is not covered here.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

DeveloperIK Multimedia
TypePlugin
CategoryAmp Simulator
FormatsVST3, VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systemsWindows, macOS
Architecture64-bit
05FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats does TONEX MAX Upgrade support?

TONEX MAX Upgrade is listed in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats. The plugin runs on Windows and macOS.

What do I need to run TONEX MAX Upgrade?

On macOS, the software needs macOS 10.15 with an Intel Core i3 processor, or macOS 11 with an Apple M1 chip, plus 4 GB of RAM and 6 GB of hard drive space. On Windows, it needs Windows 10, an Intel Core i3 or equivalent CPU, 4 GB of RAM and 6 GB of hard drive space. An internet connection is required to authorize the application and access ToneNET.

Does TONEX MAX Upgrade run natively on Apple Silicon?

Yes. The developer describes TONEX as a native Apple Silicon application, and the listed macOS requirements include Apple M1 with macOS 11.

How long does it take to create a Tone Model?

The developer says a model can be made in as little as 5 minutes per model on modern computers. Modeler requires a Core i5 processor or better for best results, and macOS 11 Big Sur for Modeler on Intel Macs.

07Developer

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