The Radial X-Amp is an active re-amping device that lets you use a pre-recorded track from a line level device to drive two guitar amplifiers or effect pedals simultaneously. This opens the door to explore new musical sounds and spur on the creative process. Re-amping is one of those producer's tricks for bringing new sounds and textures to already recorded tracks, and the X-Amp is designed to do the job well. This active re-amping device features a Class-A signal path, an input level overload indicator, an isolated output to get rid of ground loops, and a variable output level control. Add a new wrinkle to your recordings with the X-Amp!
With the X-Amp, you could for instance take a pre-recorded guitar track and send it through a second distortion pedal and amplifier, then slightly delay the track to add a thick doubling effect. You could also use the X-Amp from a voice track to a distortion pedal to add some grit to a performance. Another popular use would be to go back and fix a track should an error or glitch somehow appear.
The X-Amp employs a unique Class-A circuit design that has been optimized for use with guitars. Using the X-Amp is easy: one would, for instance, record a dry track using a high quality direct box, then send this track from the recorder to the X-Amp and then to either guitar amps, effect pedals, or combinations thereof.
Recording using the X-Amp has many benefits: once the basic track has been recorded, replacing or adding tracks can be done well after the session player has gone home. This eliminates tiresome repetition and assures a fresh, vibrant performance on the final recording. Furthermore, by driving two amps at the same time, new sounds and textures can be created, allowing the engineer–producer to make artistic decisions as the recording progresses.
X-Amp features include balanced line level input with LED peak indicator and level control, Class-A circuit topology for optimal reach and frequency response, direct and isolated guitar amplifier outputs, 180-degree polarity reverse to bring both amps into phase, and dual ground lift options for noise-free operation.
As with all Radial products, the X-Amp is built like a tank to provide years of trouble-free performance. A welded I-beam internal skeleton provides a separate housing for maximum protection against external forces that may cause stress on the PC board assembly, while the outside bookend cover provides a protective zone for the switches, potentiometer, and connectors. A full bottom no-slip pad performs double duty by keeping the X-Amp from sliding around when placed on a vibrating amplifier, while also providing electrical and mechanical isolation.
The Radial X-Amp™ is an active Reamper™ that allows the engineer to play a pre-recorded track back through guitar amplifiers and pedals. This opens the door to new creative possibilities and helps your recording stand out with unique tone shaping options.
Following the critically acclaimed Radial JD7™ Injector, the X-Amp employs a unique Class-A circuit design optimized for guitars. It features a balanced line-level input with LED peak indicator and level control, Class-A circuit topology for exceptional response, a transformer-isolated output to eliminate hum and buzz, a 180° polarity reverse switch to keep multiple amps in phase, and dual ground lift options for noise-free operation.
To Reamp, begin by recording a dry track using a Radial J48 while splitting the signal. Record the wet track with a microphone so the guitarist can hear it. Then send the guitarist to the beach!
Send the dry track back to your guitar amps and pedals using the X-Amp. Adjust tone, tweak amp settings, and move microphones until you get the perfect sound. You can always return and Reamp again later.
Try sending a vocal track through a Marshall® amp or a Tonebone Classic-V9™ to add tube warmth and grit. Go even further by routing your kick drum through a wah pedal. When it comes to Reamping, the creative possibilities are limitless!
