AmpForge vs Helix Stadium Native

AmpForge is a free, open-source guitar amp simulator plugin that also includes vocal effects. Its pedalboard has 19 internal modules that can be reordered while the plugin is running. The NAM module loads Neural Amp Modeler capture files supplied by the user. Vocal tools include autotune pitch correction and a de-esser for sibilance. AmpForge is available as VST3, LV2, and CLAP plugins, plus a standalone app on supported platforms. It can run in compatible hosts such as Reaper, Carla, and Bitwig. Users can save, update, delete, import, and export custom presets, alongside the included factory presets. Hosts can automate every parameter, including pedal positions. An IR loader is included, but users need to provide cabinet impulse responses and NAM captures. AmpForge supports Linux, macOS, and Windows. The Windows installer offers VST3, CLAP, and LV2, but no standalone executable. The macOS build is not signed or notarized; the README describes a Gatekeeper workaround for installation.

Helix Stadium Native is an amp and effects plugin that brings Helix Stadium hardware sounds and tone tools into a digital audio workstation. It runs on macOS and Windows in AAX, AU, and VST3 formats, and is not a standalone app. The product page lists 132 amplifier models with 152 channels, more than 260 effects models, and more than 60 speaker cabinet models. The full license lists 27 Agoura amps with 55 channels plus 111 HX amps, 46 cabinets, and 274 studio effects. Hype control blends between more authentic and idealized amp sounds, while Focus View provides contextual parameter controls. The plugin supports third-party cabinet impulse responses and Proxy clones, as well as presets and setlists from Helix Stadium and Helix Stadium XL and original Helix and HX products with firmware 3.50 or later. External MIDI controllers and software can control parameters and snapshots. A free Intro plan is available; the full license costs $399.99 as a one-time purchase purchase and includes a 15-day trial.