Head-to-head · Guitar Amp Software
AmpliTube 5 vs Amp Locker
AmpliTube 5 leads on 0 checks, Amp Locker on 2, and 3 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 5 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreAmpliTube 5 · 9.2/10
- Free planboth
AmpliTube 5 scores higher on our rubric for guitar amp software: 9.2 against 8.3 out of 10; our editors rank them #2 and #11.
Amp Locker leads on amp models: 111 models versus 13 models. Amp Locker leads on effects count: 74 effects versus 33 effects.
AmpliTube 5 is the better fit for mature all-in-one practice and recording. Amp Locker is the better fit for feature-rich users on Linux or desktop.
- AmpliTube 5 fits best
Mature all-in-one practice and recording
- Amp Locker fits best
Feature-rich users on Linux or desktop
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Side by side
| Feature | AmpliTube 5 9.2/10 Visit ↗ | Amp Locker 8.3/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.2 | 8.3 |
| Ranking | #2 in Guitar Amp Software | #11 in Guitar Amp Software |
| Best for | Mature all-in-one practice and recording | Feature-rich users on Linux or desktop |
| Pricing model | Free plan + paid | Free plan + paid |
| Starting price | $99.99 one-time | — |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Desktop | Cloud, Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Docs | Email, Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market | Solo, Small business, Mid-market |
| Features AmpliTube 5 2/2 · Amp Locker 2/2 | ||
| Standalone app | ✓ | ✓ |
| IR loader | ✓ | ✓ |
| Specs | ||
| Amp models | 13 models | 111 models (best) |
| Cabinet models | 14 models | Not checked yet |
| Effects count | 33 effects | 74 effects (best) |
| Plugin formats | Audio Units, VST 3, AAX | AU, VST3, RTAS, AAX |
| Supported platforms | macOS, Windows | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | AmpliTube 5 is desktop guitar and bass amp-modeling software for musicians, producers, and recording engineers. It covers amps, cabinets, speakers, microphones, stomp effects, rack effects, and rooms, with standalone operation or DAW… Read the review → |
Amp Locker is Audio Assault’s guitar amp simulation environment for musicians, producers, and recording engineers who want virtual amplifiers, pedals, rack effects, cabinets, and microphone positioning in one software suite. It runs as a… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
AmpliTube 5 — where it wins
- Broad amp, cabinet, effects, room, microphone, and speaker modeling
- Integrated 8-track recorder, DAW, looper, tuner, and practice tools
- Standalone and plug-in operation with custom IR and TONEX support
Where it doesn't
- Available only on Windows and macOS
- The broad feature set may exceed focused practice needs
- Choosing among gear libraries requires comparing several editions
Amp Locker — where it wins
- 111 verified amp models and 74 effects on the subscription tier
- Standalone app, DAW plug-in support, MIDI, and Windows, macOS, and Linux
- 3D cabinets, movable microphones, and third-party IR loading
Where it doesn't
- Linux compatibility can vary by distribution
- The subscription excludes 3D cab add-on packs
- Certain signature amp simulations are excluded from the subscription
- AmpliTube 59.2/10 · Free plan
A mature all-in-one desktop suite with broad modeling, routing, recording, and practice tools.
Visit IK MultimediaFull verdict → - Amp Locker8.3/10 · Free plan
A broad amp-and-effects suite with Linux support, standalone use, and detailed cabinet control.
Visit Audio AssaultFull verdict →
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All guitar amp software comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update






