Brainworx bx_rockergain100 is a digital emulation of the iconic Orange Rockerverb 100 amplifier, renowned for its powerful high-gain tones and versatile clean channel. This plugin aims to capture the essence of the original hardware, offering guitarists and producers a convenient way to access its signature sound without the need for physical equipment. The bx_rockergain100 features two channels – clean and dirty – each with its own set of controls for shaping the tone. The plugin’s interface closely resembles the original amp’s front panel, making it intuitive for users familiar with the hardware. Beyond the core amplifier simulation, Brainworx has included additional features like a built-in noise gate, power soak, and a variety of cabinet impulse responses to further expand the plugin’s sonic capabilities. The bx_rockergain100 is designed to deliver the earth-shaking heavy guitar tones associated with modern rock and metal, while also offering the ability to craft more subtle, bluesy clean tones.
Pros:
• Authentic emulation of the Orange Rockerverb 100 amplifier
• Versatile tone-shaping options with two distinct channels
• Includes 120 high-quality cabinet impulse responses
• Additional features like noise gate and power soak enhance usability
• Low CPU usage compared to some competing amp sims
Cons:
• Lacks the spring reverb found on the original hardware
• Limited to emulating a single amp model, which may not suit all genres
The bx_rockergain100 offers a comprehensive set of features that closely mirror those found on the original Orange Rockerverb 100 amplifier. The clean channel provides controls for gain, bass, middle, and treble, allowing users to craft everything from sparkling clean tones to edge-of-breakup sounds. The dirty channel expands on this with an additional gain stage and a shape control, which adjusts the midrange character of the distortion. This channel is capable of producing a wide range of overdriven and distorted tones, from classic rock crunch to modern metal saturation.
One of the standout features of the bx_rockergain100 is its cabinet simulation section. Brainworx has included 120 different impulse responses, recorded using high-end equipment through their NEVE console. These IRs offer a variety of speaker and microphone combinations, giving users extensive options for shaping the final tone. The ability to load custom IRs further expands the plugin’s versatility.
The power amp section of the plugin includes a power soak feature, which allows users to simulate the effect of running the amp at lower power levels. This can be useful for achieving saturated tones at lower volumes, mimicking the behavior of attenuators used with real tube amps. Additionally, the plugin offers the option to bypass the power amp section entirely, which can be helpful when using the plugin as a preamp in conjunction with other amp sims or real power amps.
Brainworx has also included several utility features that enhance the plugin’s functionality. A noise gate helps clean up unwanted noise, particularly useful when using high-gain settings. The FX Rack includes a syncable lo-fi delay and various filters, adding creative sound-shaping options beyond what the original amp offers. These additional features demonstrate Brainworx’s commitment to making the plugin not just an accurate emulation, but a powerful production tool in its own right.
The plugin’s user interface is well-designed, closely resembling the original amp’s control panel while adding clear visual feedback for parameter adjustments. The layout is intuitive, with easy access to all features without feeling cluttered. The vintage-style VU meter adds a nice visual touch, providing useful level information while contributing to the authentic feel of the plugin.
When compared to similar plugins, the bx_rockergain100 stands out for its focused approach to emulating a specific amplifier. While some amp sim plugins offer a variety of different amp models, Brainworx has chosen to perfect their recreation of the Orange Rockerverb 100. This dedication to a single model results in a highly authentic sound that closely matches the original hardware. In terms of sound quality, the bx_rockergain100 holds its own against other high-end amp sims. Its clean tones are rich and dynamic, while the high-gain sounds are thick and aggressive, capturing the character that made the original amp popular among metal and hard rock guitarists. The inclusion of 120 impulse responses gives it an edge in terms of cabinet simulation options compared to some competitors. However, the plugin’s focus on a single amp model may be limiting for users who prefer to have a variety of different amp types at their disposal. Plugins like Neural DSP’s Quad Cortex or IK Multimedia’s AmpliTube 5 offer a wider range of amp models, albeit at a higher price point. For those specifically seeking the Orange Rockerverb sound, the bx_rockergain100 is hard to beat, but it may not be the most versatile option for covering multiple genres or amp styles.
This plugin is best for:
• Guitarists and producers seeking authentic Orange Rockerverb tones
• Metal and hard rock musicians looking for high-gain amp sounds
• Home recording enthusiasts who want pro-level amp tones without the physical equipment
• Studio engineers looking to add a reliable amp sim to their plugin arsenal
Brainworx bx_rockergain100 is a powerful and authentic emulation of the Orange Rockerverb 100 amplifier that delivers on its promise of providing earth-shaking guitar tones. Its strengths lie in its accurate recreation of the original amp’s character, particularly in high-gain settings where it truly shines. The clean channel is also impressively versatile, offering a range of tones from pristine cleans to edge-of-breakup sounds. The inclusion of 120 impulse responses and additional features like the power soak and FX rack add significant value, expanding the plugin’s capabilities beyond a simple amp simulation. While it may not offer the variety of amp models found in some competing products, its focused approach results in a highly refined and authentic sound that will appeal to fans of the original hardware. The plugin’s relatively low CPU usage is also a plus, making it a practical choice for both studio and live use. Despite minor drawbacks like the absence of a spring reverb, the bx_rockergain100 stands as a top-tier option for those seeking the distinctive sound of the Orange Rockerverb in plugin form.