Audiority Solidus Randy 250 is an analog-modeled solid-state amplifier plugin that simulates two iconic Randall amplifiers: the RG100ES from the late ’80s and the RH150 from the late ’00s. This versatile plugin aims to capture the essence of these renowned metal amplifiers, known for their massive low-end response and crushing gain. The Solidus Randy 250 offers a dual-channel configuration, mirroring the original hardware, with clean and overdrive options for both the RG and RH models. It features an intuitive interface that closely resembles the physical amps, allowing users to easily dial in their desired tones. The plugin goes beyond mere emulation by incorporating additional features such as a noise gate, a modern overdrive pedal, multiple EQ options, and a dual cabinet simulator, providing guitarists and producers with a comprehensive tool for crafting heavy guitar tones in the digital realm.
Pros:
• Accurate modeling of two iconic Randall solid-state amplifiers
• Extensive tone-shaping capabilities with multiple EQ options
• Integrated cabinet simulator with a variety of impulse responses
Cons:
• May require significant CPU resources, especially at higher sample rates
The Solidus Randy 250 boasts an impressive array of features that cater to the needs of metal guitarists and producers seeking authentic solid-state tones. At its core, the plugin offers two distinct amplifier models: the RG100ES and the RH150. The RG model provides two channels (Green and Red) with an additional overdrive channel boost, while the RH model offers Clean and Overdrive channels, with the Clean channel featuring a boost option and the Overdrive channel incorporating a dual-gain stage for enhanced tonal flexibility.
The plugin’s interface is designed to closely mimic the original hardware, with familiar controls for gain, EQ, and master volume. Users can easily switch between the two amp models and their respective channels, allowing for quick A/B comparisons and tone exploration. The RH model’s Overdrive channel is particularly noteworthy, offering two separate gain stages that can be fine-tuned to achieve anything from mild crunch to face-melting distortion.
To further enhance the plugin’s versatility, Audiority has included several additional modules. A noise gate is provided to help clean up unwanted noise, especially useful when working with high-gain settings. The “Wild Drive” module simulates a modern overdrive pedal, allowing users to push the virtual preamp even further or add subtle coloration to clean tones.
The EQ section is particularly robust, featuring a 6-band graphic EQ followed by a 3-band parametric EQ/booster. This combination provides extensive control over the frequency spectrum, enabling users to sculpt their tone with surgical precision. Additionally, a post-amp 5-band equalizer is included, offering further tonal refinement at the end of the signal chain.
One of the standout features of the Solidus Randy 250 is its integrated dual cabinet simulator. This module allows users to load and blend two different impulse responses, creating custom cabinet configurations that would be difficult or impossible to achieve in the physical world. The plugin comes with a selection of high-quality impulse responses from renowned providers such as Dr. Bonkers Sound Lab, Eddie Scharr, Redwirez, and Seacow Cabs, ensuring that users have access to a wide range of cabinet sounds right out of the box.
The Solidus Randy 250 also offers a resizable interface, making it easy to adjust the plugin window to fit various screen sizes and workflows. Furthermore, the plugin supports standalone operation, allowing users to play through the virtual amp without the need for a DAW.
When compared to similar plugins in the market, the Solidus Randy 250 stands out for its focus on solid-state amplifier modeling. While many popular amp sim plugins primarily emulate tube amplifiers, Audiority has chosen to recreate the distinctive sound of Randall’s solid-state designs. This approach fills a niche in the plugin market, catering to guitarists and producers who appreciate the tight, punchy character of solid-state amplification. In terms of sound quality and features, the Solidus Randy 250 competes well with other high-end amp sim plugins. Its extensive EQ options and integrated cabinet simulator rival those found in more expensive packages. However, some users may find that it lacks the broader range of amp models offered by all-in-one solutions like Neural DSP’s Quad Cortex or Line 6’s Helix Native. Where the Solidus Randy 250 truly shines is in its ability to recreate the specific character of the Randall amplifiers it emulates. For those seeking the authentic tone of these iconic metal amps, this plugin offers a level of accuracy that may be difficult to achieve with more generalized amp sim solutions.
This plugin is best for:
• Metal guitarists seeking authentic Randall solid-state tones
• Producers working on heavy music genres
• Home recording enthusiasts looking for high-quality amp simulation
• Guitarists who appreciate the tight, punchy character of solid-state amplification
Audiority Solidus Randy 250 is a powerful and versatile amp simulation plugin that successfully captures the essence of two iconic Randall solid-state amplifiers. Its accurate modeling, combined with an array of additional features, provides users with a comprehensive tool for crafting heavy guitar tones in the digital domain. The plugin’s strength lies in its ability to recreate the specific character of the Randall RG100ES and RH150, making it an excellent choice for metal guitarists and producers seeking authentic solid-state tones. While it may not offer the broad range of amp models found in some all-in-one solutions, its focus on quality over quantity results in a plugin that excels in its intended niche. The extensive EQ options, integrated cabinet simulator, and additional modules like the noise gate and overdrive pedal further enhance its versatility, allowing users to shape their tone with precision. Despite potentially high CPU usage, the Solidus Randy 250 delivers professional-grade sound quality and a user-friendly interface that closely mimics the original hardware. For those in search of crushing metal tones with the distinctive punch and clarity of solid-state amplification, the Audiority Solidus Randy 250 is a compelling option that deserves serious consideration.