Deep Crunch by Heptode: Legendary 80s Crunch in Your DAW
The Deep Crunch plugin from renowned developer Heptode is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of the classic “Crunch” tone of the legendary Soldano SLO-100* amplifier. This sound became the hallmark of many rock hits of the 80s and remains a benchmark for guitarists worldwide.
Deep Crunch recreates the same rich, dynamic, and warm tube crunch that is perfect for rhythm parts and solos in rock, hard rock, blues, and anywhere you need a clear, but pleasant, overdriven sound without excessive aggression.
Features and Usage
Deep Crunch is a monophonic VST plugin (one input/output) for easy integration into your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).
There are several important points when using the plugin:
- Guitar Connection: When connecting directly to the sound card, it’s important to make sure that the input impedance of your card is compatible with the guitar. Instruments with passive pickups require an input impedance of at least 500 kOhm for correct operation and better sound.
- Using with Computer Speakers: If you are listening through regular monitors or computer speakers, enable the CabSim function. It simulates the acoustic characteristics of a guitar cabinet, making the sound more natural and pleasant to listen to without real equipment.
- Using with a Guitar Amplifier: The plugin can be used in front of a real guitar amplifier, similar to a physical pedal. Connect the sound card output to a standard guitar amp input or to the “effect return” input, if available. This allows you to integrate the virtual pedal into your existing guitar setup.
Important Points from Heptode Developer
Heptode notes that their plugins themselves do not generate excessive noise, but since they amplify the signal, they naturally amplify any existing noise from the guitar or sound card. To achieve the cleanest possible sound, it is recommended to use high-quality sound cards with a signal-to-noise ratio of 100 dB or higher.
It’s worth understanding that a complete simulation of analog components is complex. Virtual pedals cannot completely replace real devices. The quality also strongly depends on external equipment – the sound card and computer.
Despite this, Deep Crunch by Heptode is a great tool. It allows you to integrate the authentic “crunchy” tone of the Soldano SLO-100* into your DAW projects, making it accessible.
