NSb – A New Perspective on Guitar Amplification
In the world of audio processing plugins, especially for guitar, new tools constantly emerge, striving to replicate the magic of legendary “hardware.” NSb by developer Vadim Taranov is one such plugin, offering a fresh perspective on guitar amplifier simulation, combining the characteristics of two iconic approaches to shaping guitar tone.
Inspiration and Concept
When creating NSb, the author set an ambitious goal: to achieve a balance between the powerful “pressure” and sound density characteristic of Peavey amplifiers, and the melodic quality and exceptional sensitivity to playing dynamics for which Dumble Overdrive Special amplifiers are valued. This combination of ideas is not typical and promises guitarists and sound engineers a unique timbre that can find its place in a wide variety of musical genres.
Peavey amplifiers, especially their series, are known for their aggressive, high-gain sound, which has become a standard in many rock and metal styles. They provide a dense low-mid range and aggressive attack, ideal for riffs. On the other hand, Dumble amplifiers, created by master Alexander Dumble, are rare, extremely expensive, and famous for their organic response to dynamics, harmonic richness, and a “singing” overdrive that is perfect for expressive solos.
Sound Features of NSb
The result of combining these two worlds in the NSb plugin is an attempt to create a simulation that:
- Has enough gain and density for heavy music styles.
- Maintains excellent note articulation even at high levels of distortion.
- Reacts to the dynamics of the guitarist’s playing, allowing control of the degree of distortion by the force of the string strike or the guitar’s volume.
- Offers a rich, harmonically saturated tone, suitable for both rhythmic parts and lead guitar.
NSb does not simply copy one specific amplifier, but is the result of research and an attempt to combine the best features of different philosophies of guitar sound. This makes it an interesting tool for tone experiments.
Using the Plugin
The NSb plugin will be a great addition to the arsenal of any guitarist or producer working in a digital audio environment. It can be used for:
- Recording guitars in the studio, getting high-quality distorted sound without the need to use real amplifiers and microphones.
- Reamping previously recorded dry guitar parts.
- Practicing at home, connecting the guitar directly to the audio interface.
- Creating demo recordings (demos).
Due to its concept, NSb can be relevant for musicians who play rock, blues-rock, fusion, metal and other genres where expressive and controlled overdrive or distortion is needed.
Technical Aspects
At the time of publication, NSb is available in VST format, which ensures its compatibility with the vast majority of digital audio workstations (DAW) on the Windows platform (Win32). This makes it easily accessible to a wide range of users.
- Format: VST
- Operating system: Windows (Win32)
- Developer: Vadim Taranov
Before using, make sure that your DAW supports 32-bit VST plugins on Windows.
Summary
NSb is more than just another guitar amplifier simulation. It is the result of Vadim Taranov’s creative search, aimed at combining the unique sound qualities of Peavey and Dumble. The plugin offers an interesting, dynamic and articulated guitar tone that can inspire you to new musical ideas. If you are looking for a free guitar plugin that goes beyond standard emulations, NSb is definitely worth your attention. Try it in your mixes and see how it can enrich your guitar sound.
