NAM Guide / Open-Source Amp Modelling
Neural Amp Modeler A2 brings open-source amp capture to a wider range of software, pedals and processors, with Full and Lite runtimes designed for different levels of hardware power.
This guide explains what changed from A1 to A2, which hardware support is confirmed, how to run NAM on an iPhone, iPad or laptop, and how the open format compares with Quad Cortex, TONEX, Kemper and Fractal.
Quick Verdict
Choose NAM A2 when you want portable model files, access to a broad community library and less dependence on one manufacturer’s ecosystem. Current GSUS4 hardware options include the Darkglass Anagram with A2 Full/Lite playback and the Hotone Ampero II Stage with native A2 Lite support.
What is Neural Amp Modeler?
Neural Amp Modeler — usually shortened to NAM — is an open-source project created by Steven Atkinson. It uses deep learning to reproduce the input-to-output behaviour of guitar amps, bass amps, drive pedals, preamps and complete signal chains.
NAM sends a known training signal through a real device, records the result and trains a neural network to behave like the captured equipment. The resulting .nam file is not a conventional amp model with a virtual circuit diagram. It is a learned snapshot of how the target rig responded at the settings used during capture.
Open technology
The core project can be inspected, integrated and improved by developers and hardware manufacturers.
Independent captures
A NAM file can move between compatible software and hardware rather than being tied to one manufacturer’s cloud.
Large tone library
TONE3000 has become a major discovery, training and distribution layer for community and commercial NAM models.
NAM architecture: from A1 to A2
A1 was a family of WaveNet model sizes — commonly Standard, Lite, Feather and Nano — that traded processing demand against modelling capacity. These smaller variants helped NAM reach embedded products, but the capture creator generally had to train and distribute a particular size.
Separate network sizes. Smaller models require less processing but generally provide less modelling capacity.
A slimmable architecture lets the same A2 model operate at Full or Lite runtime size on compatible implementations.
A2 Full
A2 Full is the maximum-capacity runtime intended for software and hardware with adequate processing headroom. It is the reference choice when capture fidelity is the priority.
A2 Lite
A2 Lite runs the same A2 model at a smaller computational size. That lets compact, battery-powered or cost-sensitive hardware support a common capture library without requiring a separate “lite capture” catalogue.
A2 Full ranked first among the tested digital modelers
TONE3000 reports that more than 1,000 participants compared anonymised recordings of real gear and digital models using the MUSHRA blind listening methodology. In the mean-score view shown in the supplied capture, A2 Full scored 92.4 — the highest result among the digital modelers in the comparison. The recorded source scored 97.5 and is a reference rather than a modeler.
MUSHRA mean listening scores
Higher scores indicate that listeners rated the model as sounding closer to the original amp, pedal or signal chain.
| Architecture | Typical role | Compute demand | Current position |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 Standard | Original full-size general-purpose NAM capture | High | Legacy but widely available |
| A1 Lite | Lower-load software and hardware use | Medium | Legacy |
| A1 Feather | Embedded and constrained systems | Low | Legacy |
| A1 Nano | Very constrained embedded use | Very low | Legacy |
| A2 Full | Maximum-fidelity playback | Higher A2 runtime | Current standard |
| A2 Lite | Compact pedals, amps and multi-effects | Lower A2 runtime | Current standard |
NAM pedals, amps and hardware
The hardware story is moving quickly. Separate released support from partner announcements, and check the latest firmware notes before buying a product specifically for A2.
| Brand / product | NAM generation | Status on 26 July 2026 | What is verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| Darkglass Anagram | A1 + A2 Full/Lite | Released | Official product/software information lists A2 model support and Full/Lite selection. |
| Hotone Ampero II Stage | A2 Lite | Released in firmware V1.7.0 | Hotone’s dedicated NAM module imports A2 files and loads them natively in Lite format. |
| Hotone Ampero II | A2 Lite | Later update announced | Hotone lists Ampero II A2 Lite support as coming in a later update; it is not part of the current Stage firmware release. |
| Hotone Ampero II Stomp | A2 Lite | Later update announced | Hotone lists Ampero II Stomp A2 Lite support as coming through a later update. |
| Sonicake Pocket Master | A1 via internal conversion | Released | The current workflow accepts legacy A1 .nam files through Sonicake’s internal conversion/distillation process; native A2 and A2 Lite are not supported. |
| Dimehead NAM Player | A1 + A2 | Released | Manufacturer announcement and firmware references confirm A2 support. |
| Blackstar Beam Mini | Native NAM ecosystem | Released | Official Blackstar information confirms native NAM capture loading. |
| Blackstar Beam Solo | A2 | Firmware announced/released | A2 support was announced as a free firmware update for existing units. |
| HeadRush Prime, Flex Prime and Core | A2 | Partner announcement | Named by TONE3000 as supporting A2; exact released model and firmware coverage remains undocumented publicly. |
| LAVA MUSIC | A2 | Announced | Named in TONE3000’s A2 partner announcement. |
| Chaos Audio | A2 | Announced | Named in TONE3000’s A2 partner announcement. |
Hotone Ampero II support timeline
The Hotone Ampero II Stage now supports native NAM A2 Lite playback through firmware V1.7.0, paired with Ampero II Software V1.5.1 or Ampero II Stage Mobile V1.2.2. The dedicated NAM module can import an A2 file and load it in the Lite runtime.
Hotone says native A2 Lite support for the Ampero II and Ampero II Stomp is coming in later updates. Those two models should remain marked as announced rather than currently released until their matching firmware is available.
Sonicake Pocket Master and NAM
The compact Sonicake Pocket Master supports legacy NAM Architecture 1 (A1) files through an internal conversion/distillation workflow in Soniclink or Sonicake Manager. It does not currently provide native A2 or A2 Lite playback, so users downloading captures from TONE3000 should select the legacy A1 format.
Darkglass Anagram
The Darkglass Anagram remains one of the clearest examples of open neural models inside professional stage hardware, with NAM A2 Full and Lite available alongside a bass-focused multi-effects and routing environment.
Creating or training the NAM model still happens outside the pedal.
NAM and modeler videos
Watch the official NAM A2 walkthrough, Hotone and Sonicake NAM demonstrations, Darkglass Anagram videos and the HeadRush Flex Prime introduction without leaving this page.
NAM apps, plugins and software
NAM is a model format and inference engine rather than one fixed commercial app. Your workflow depends on the host you use to play, organise or train the models.
NAM plugin
The official desktop plugin is the reference starting point for loading NAM models inside a DAW.
TONE3000
A major community library and training layer for discovering free and commercial NAM models.
Cloud or local trainer
Google Colab and local training workflows convert a re-amped training recording into a playable NAM model.
Gateway and third-party hosts
Standalone and plugin hosts can combine NAM playback with cabinets, EQ, effects and preset management.
iPhone and iPad
Compatible iOS apps can host NAM models for practice, recording and portable performance rigs.
Embedded NAM Core
Manufacturers integrate NeuralAmpModelerCore into their firmware, with model-size support determined by the implementation.
How to run NAM on an iPhone, iPad or laptop
The basic setup is simple: connect the guitar to a suitable high-impedance input, run the NAM host, add a cabinet IR when the capture requires one, then monitor through headphones, speakers, a PA or a suitable amplifier return.
iPhone and iPad NAM app comparison
The best mobile host depends on whether you want a complete pedalboard, fast live preset switching, a dual-amp rig or a simple low-cost loader. Every app below supports NAM A2, but their operating-system requirements and desktop compatibility differ.
| App and platform | Best for | Advantages | Limitations | Australian price checked 26 Jul 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Ampz: Neural Amp Modeler iPhone / iPad; iOS 18+ |
An all-in-one practice and recording rig | A2 playback, standalone and AUv3 operation, direct TONE3000 browsing, a ten-slot effects chain, IR loader, presets, MIDI, tuner, looper and drum machine. | Requires a recent OS. The Mac-compatible App Store build is an iPad-designed app rather than a verified native Mac plug-in package. | A$14.99 one-time purchase; no subscription or in-app purchases. |
|
ToneRig: NAM Amp & Pedalboard iPhone / iPad; iOS 17+ |
Parallel pedalboards and expandable AUv3 rigs | Free A2 and standard NAM playback, user NAM and IR import, reorderable effects, tuner, meters and metronome. Pro adds parallel routing, MIDI Learn, preset banks, unlimited TONE3000 downloads, third-party AUv3 hosting, AUv3 output and iCloud backup. | The most useful live organisation, routing and plug-in features require Pro. The iPad-designed Mac build is not verified as native macOS software. | Free core app; ToneRig Pro is an A$14.99 one-time unlock. |
|
NAM Live iPhone / iPad / Mac; iOS 15+ |
Stage presets and foot-controller use | A2 plus standard NAM playback, A2 Slim control, TONE3000 integration, AUv3, Bluetooth MIDI, gapless preset banks, tuner, IRs, gate, delay, reverb and global EQ. | More performance-oriented than a minimal loader, and its Mac listing does not replace regular VST3 or AAX formats in every desktop DAW. | A$22.99 one-time purchase. |
|
NAM XT iPhone / iPad / Mac; iOS 13+ |
Dual or stacked NAM rigs | Full A2 support, two NAM loaders, stereo processing, advanced dual-IR routing, gate, presets, standalone mode and AUv3 operation. | No built-in TONE3000 browser is advertised. On Mac it is AUv3 rather than a VST3 or AAX plug-in, so DAW compatibility should be checked first. | A$22.99 one-time purchase. |
|
NAM Sandwich iPhone / iPad; iOS 17+ |
A low-cost, flexible A2 pedalboard | Full A2 captures, freely reorderable NAM and effects layers, TONE3000 browsing, IRs, tuner, backing-track playback, gapless performance pads and AUv3. | Subscription after the trial, no verified native Mac version and a shorter development history than the established alternatives. | Free download; A$4.99 per year or A$14.99 lifetime unlock. |
|
NAM Loader Pedal iPhone / iPad; iOS 17.4+ |
A simple, inexpensive NAM loader | A2 model loading, TONE3000 browser, standalone and AUv3 modes, stereo IR, gate, tone EQ and MIDI CC mapping. | A smaller effect and preset environment than the full-rig apps; a separate AUv3 host is needed when using it as a plug-in. | A$7.99 one-time purchase. |
|
MGP-2 Makk Guitar Processor iPhone / iPad / Mac; iOS 17.6+ |
Tone shaping around dual A2 slots | A2-compatible pedal and amp slots, IR loader, gate, EQ and drive shaping, presets, AUv3, local processing and an optional offline tone-matching aid. | NAM and IR loading require the paid Standard tier. The tone-matching feature adjusts conventional parameters; it does not create a new NAM capture. | Free limited edition; Standard is A$2.99/month or A$29.99 lifetime. |
All prices above are Australian App Store prices in AUD, checked on 26 July 2026. Apple and app developers may change pricing or availability after publication.
Laptop NAM software comparison
For a conventional Mac, Windows or Linux laptop workflow, use a native standalone application or a plug-in format supported by your DAW. An iPhone/iPad app shown as Mac-compatible may run on Apple silicon without providing the VST3, AAX or cross-platform support expected from desktop software.
| Software and platform | Best for | Advantages | Limitations | Price checked 26 Jul 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
NAM Gateway Windows / macOS |
The official A2 starting point | Official, free NAM player with A2 support and direct Windows and macOS installers. | A focused model player rather than a complete multi-effects pedalboard; use it inside a compatible plug-in host or DAW. | Free and open source. |
|
Soundshed Guitar Windows / macOS / Linux |
A complete free standalone laptop rig | NAM A2, standalone mode, VST3, AU and CLAP formats, TONE3000 integration, flexible routing, effects, IR cabinets, community presets and practice tools. | A newer third-party platform with a larger feature set and learning curve than a basic NAM loader. | Free at the time of writing. |
|
NAM Studio Windows / macOS / Linux |
Multi-slot NAM and IR use inside a DAW | A2 support, five NAM-or-IR slots, TONE3000 search, library management, presets, tuner, gate and parametric EQ in VST3, AAX, AU and LV2 formats. | It is presented as a plug-in rather than a standalone practice app, and version 0.1.0 is an early public release. | Free, donation-supported. |
Watch: using NAM in an app
This walkthrough is embedded below and starts at 12:20, so you can go directly to the practical app section without leaving this guide.
Connection examples
Silent practice
Guitar → interface → NAM app → cabinet IR → headphones. Keep direct monitoring off unless you want to hear the clean DI alongside the model.
Studio monitors or PA
Use a full amp-and-cab capture or add an appropriate IR after an amp-only model. Send the interface’s line outputs to the monitors or mixer.
Real guitar amplifier
For a power-amp return and real guitar cab, use an amp-only model and normally bypass the cabinet IR. Start at low output level.
Recommended GSUS4 interface options
NAM playback only needs one clean instrument input, so a compact one- or two-input USB-C, bus-powered interface is usually the ideal choice. Prioritise a proper Hi-Z guitar input, reliable drivers or mobile compatibility, and a low-latency headphone or monitor output.
For the smallest mobile rig, the IK Multimedia iRig USB is the compact entry point, while the iRig HD X adds a higher-spec workflow for iPhone, iPad, Mac and Windows. The two-channel Blackstar Polar Go is another portable option when a mobile mixer-style layout is useful.
Compact USB-C choices include the 2-in/2-out Zoom AMS-22, the 2-in/4-out Zoom AMS-24, the 2-in/2-out Audient EVO 4, the creator-focused Lewitt CONNECT 2 and the 2-in/2-out Solid State Logic SSL 1. Each gives a NAM host a practical instrument-input and monitoring front end without requiring a large studio interface.
For a more guitar-focused desktop setup, the IK Multimedia AXE I/O Solo provides instrument-oriented controls. If you need to record several sources rather than one guitar, the bus-powered 4-in/4-out Zoom AMS-44 offers extra I/O beyond the basic one- or two-input NAM rig.
Is HeadRush getting NAM A2?
HeadRush has been named as an A2-supporting partner, but a partner announcement is not the same as a model-by-model firmware release note.
Prime-family processors already use HeadRush’s proprietary Amp Cloner and SuperClone workflow. Current GSUS4 listings include the HeadRush Flex Prime, HeadRush Prime and HeadRush Core. NAM A2 could add an open model format alongside the existing cloning system, but buyers should confirm the exact device list, supported A2 runtime sizes and import workflow when official firmware documentation is published.
Device coverage
Confirm whether support covers Flex Prime, Prime, Core or only selected current models.
Runtime size
Check whether the implementation loads A2 Full, A2 Lite or both.
Import workflow
Look for details on USB, Wi-Fi, cloud-library access, cabinet IR pairing and preset management.
The linked products above are relevant Prime-family hardware references; this does not claim that a particular NAM A2 firmware has shipped.
NAM vs Quad Cortex, Anagram, TONEX, Kemper and Fractal
These platforms can all deliver convincing guitar tones, but they solve different problems. Separate the model format from the hardware, effects, routing and live workflow built around it.
| Platform | Core approach | Capture format | Create captures | Ecosystem | Main strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAM A2 | Neural snapshot modelling | Open .nam
|
Computer or cloud training workflow | Open, multi-vendor | Accuracy, portability and low platform lock-in |
| Darkglass Anagram | Multi-effects host plus neural loaders | NAM and AIDA-X | Externally trained | Mixed/open formats inside proprietary hardware | Bass workflow and flexible neural-format hosting |
| Quad Cortex | Algorithmic models plus Neural Capture | Proprietary Neural Capture | Directly on compatible Cortex hardware | Closed Cortex ecosystem | Integrated capture, routing, touchscreen and stage workflow |
| TONEX | AI Machine Modeling | Proprietary Tone Model | Computer-based TONEX workflow | IK and ToneNET ecosystem | Large integrated hardware/software ecosystem and value |
| Kemper | Profiling with proprietary amp behaviour | Proprietary Profile | Directly on compatible Profiler hardware | Kemper ecosystem | Mature live platform and profile-specific amp controls |
| Fractal | Component-level algorithmic modelling | Presets, cabs and Tone Match data | Tone Match and IR capture, not NAM-style neural training | Fractal platform | Deep editing, routing, effects and amp-model behaviour |
| HeadRush | Algorithmic models plus Clone and SuperClone | Proprietary Clone ecosystem; NAM A2 announced | On-device cloning workflow | Primarily closed, potentially mixed with NAM | Fast touchscreen workflow and approachable all-in-one operation |
NAM A2 vs Quad Cortex
Quad Cortex is a complete stage processor. It combines amp and effect models, flexible routing, touchscreen control and Neural Capture in one integrated product. NAM’s advantage is openness: a .nam model can be used by multiple software and hardware developers.
Choose Quad Cortex when you want a polished flagship floorboard that creates and plays captures as part of one workflow. Choose NAM when file portability, experimentation and freedom from one manufacturer matter most.
NAM A2 vs Darkglass Anagram
This is not a simple platform-versus-platform comparison because Anagram is an important NAM host. It can run NAM A2 Full and Lite inside a bass-focused multi-effects environment while also loading AIDA-X neural models.
NAM A2 vs TONEX
TONEX offers a cohesive end-to-end ecosystem across desktop software, mobile apps, ToneNET and multiple pedal formats. NAM is more open and potentially more portable; TONEX is more controlled and integrated.
NAM A2 vs Kemper
Kemper established profiling as a mainstream professional workflow. Its strength is the mature hardware, effects, morphing, rig management and touring workflow built around the Profile. NAM’s files are open and can reach a broader range of independent hardware.
NAM A2 vs Fractal
Fractal is built around detailed algorithmic amp models, extensive virtual circuit control, effects and routing. Choose NAM for an accurate representation of a captured setting. Choose Fractal when you want to build, modify and automate a complete virtual rig with deep control.
Which system is right for you?
Choose NAM A2 when…
You want open files, a growing community library, compatible hardware at multiple prices and minimal manufacturer lock-in.
Choose Quad Cortex when…
You want to capture gear directly on a premium floorboard and combine captures with a complete live multi-effects workflow.
Choose Anagram when…
You are a bassist who wants NAM and AIDA-X inside a modern, powerful stage platform.
Choose TONEX when…
You want a cohesive capture ecosystem spanning desktop, mobile, ToneNET and several pedal formats.
Choose Kemper when…
You value a proven touring ecosystem, mature rig management and the established Profiler workflow.
Choose Fractal when…
You want deep amp editing, routing and effects rather than relying mainly on fixed-setting captures.
Capture quality, gain structure, cabinet choice, level matching and playback monitoring can outweigh the format itself.
Why A2 may change the modeler market
A2 matters because it makes high-quality neural capture playback easier to scale across very different classes of hardware.
- Open capture becomes a product feature. Manufacturers can add a recognised model ecosystem without developing an entire cloud library and training platform from scratch.
- Hardware differentiates elsewhere. When products can play the same models, converters, latency, effects, routing, user interface, build quality and support become more important.
- Capture creators reach a wider market. Commercial creators can sell one open format to users of multiple apps, pedals and amplifiers.
- Closed platforms face pressure, not extinction. Quad Cortex, TONEX, Kemper and Fractal still provide integrated workflows and proprietary capabilities that an open model file alone does not replace.
Frequently asked questions
Does A2 Full always sound better than A2 Lite?
A2 Full has greater runtime capacity, but audible differences depend on the target, training quality, playback system and mix context. A well-trained Lite model can be entirely practical for live use.
Can an A1 pedal automatically load A2?
No. The manufacturer must update its NAM core integration and firmware. Some hardware may lack the processing headroom or development support required.
Can NAM capture changing amp controls?
A conventional NAM capture represents the device around the captured setting. Post-capture gain and EQ controls are usually host processing rather than a complete reconstruction of every original knob position.
Is Fractal a capture platform?
Fractal includes Tone Match and IR capture, but its main amp platform is detailed algorithmic modelling. It should not be treated as merely another neural snapshot format.
Has HeadRush NAM A2 firmware definitely launched?
HeadRush has been named as an A2-supporting partner, but this guide has not found a model-specific public release note confirming completed A2 playback as of 26 July 2026.
Sources and verification
- Neural Amp Modeler — official project overview
- Neural Amp Modeler — Architecture A2 development overview
- Neural Amp Modeler — A2 release announcement
- TONE3000 — NAM A2 complete guide
- TONE3000 — A2 launch and hardware partner announcement
- Darkglass — Anagram official page
- Blackstar — Beam Mini official NAM information
- Dimehead — NAM Player official product page
- HeadRush — official firmware downloads
- Hotone — NAM A2 support announcement and Ampero II timeline
- Sonicake — Pocket Master product page and NAM import instructions
- Neural DSP — Neural Capture Version 2
- Kemper — Profiler official overview
- Fractal Audio — Axe-Fx III overview
- Neural Amp Modeler — Gateway desktop downloads
- Apple App Store Australia — Ampz: Neural Amp Modeler
- Apple App Store Australia — ToneRig: NAM Amp & Pedalboard
- Apple App Store Australia — NAM Live
- Apple App Store Australia — NAM XT
- Apple App Store Australia — NAM Sandwich
- Apple App Store Australia — MGP-2 Makk Guitar Processor
- Apple App Store Australia — GigFast Lite Neural Amp Suite
- Apple App Store Australia — NAM Loader Pedal
- Soundshed Guitar — desktop NAM A2 host
- VZtec NAM Studio — desktop NAM A2 plug-in
Product support can change through firmware updates. Verify the latest manufacturer release notes before purchasing specifically for NAM A2 compatibility.
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