Amp-modeling faithful IK Multimedia has made its way into hardware guitar effects with the introduction of the X-GEAR series pedals.
Consisting of four units—X-DRIVE distortion/overdrive, X-VIBE modulation, X-TIME delay, and X-SPACE reverb, each X-GEAR series pedal operates on the same base hardware and DSP. While the X-VIBE and X-DRIVE use this DSP to provide an array of “iconic, must-have analogue pedal effects,” the X-TIME and X-SPACE serve up custom IK Multimedia effects. In any case, 16 discrete effects are available in each unit.
Considering their origins in digital effects, it’s not surprising that they come with presets bank, stereo connectivity, wet/dry separation, full MIDI support for any parameter, operation as a USB Audio Interface, and onboard impulse responses for connecting straight to a PA.
Talking about numbers, the digital processing uses 4x oversampling capabilities, up to 24-bit / 192kHz audio sampling, and 5Hz to 24kHz frequency response, capturing portions of instrument tone inaudible to humans. Each X-GEAR pedal also includes a matching digital version for PC and Mac, along with a copy of AmpliTube 5 SE.
The X-GEAR series stompboxes retail for $/€299.99 apiece. IK Multimedia has yet to release full operating details of each unit but will showcase them across Summer NAMM 2021.
