Squonk wrote:
What the freak is an impulse?
Essentially impulses are a midi way of measuring the frequency response of a certain thing and then converting that into a file that allows for the modelling of that thing, reverbs, delays, amps - all can be modelled this way. In this particular case we're talking about cabinets that have had their frequency responses modelled into high resolution impulses, it's basically the best form of modelling to date, units like the Axe-FX, Kemper and POD HD all model using what are essentially impulse systems.
The reason these will be useful to me is because the Line 6 POD HD500 I will be receiving has the ability to act as a preamp, which you can then run through a higher quality impulse for the power amp and cabinet modelling, this can yield better home results than recording directly with the POD. Here is a video that goes through some Line 6 default cabinet impulses and then the same models but through external higher resolution impulses - There is a notable difference in tone and the perceived "air" that the cab impulse creates, whether this is preferable is subjective and of course both forms are highly customizable:
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This video tells you when the external guitarhack impulse is engaged or not.
There are also companies like DAR which will be releasing seperate impulse boxes that you can load up to 10 different high res cab impulses into which allows for a direct modelled cab emulation to go straight to sound desk rather than deal with the inconsistencies of microphones on your cabinets.
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As this video shows you can use a tube amp and impulses to record at home, and IMO get fairly good results without waking the neighbours ?
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It's just great for getting startlingly good results with DIY home recording.
There are some brands that are also accepting impulses in a whole different way, the Blackstar amplifiers actually have models that in fact have modelled impulse outputs for gigging built in, here's a demo of what a Blackstar sounds like in a mix using IR outs:
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And here's a 1 watt blackstar being recorded using it's in built modelled IRs:
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