IK Multimedia has announced the release of AmpliTube UA, a free real-time guitar amp and effects processing app for Android.

IK Multimedia Amplitube UA feat

The companion app to the soon-to-be-released iRig UA universal digital interface, AmpliTube UA gives musicians with Android devices (version 4.2 or higher and that support USB host mode/USB OTG) the ability to experience the power of a portable customizable guitar rig complete with 3 stompbox effects, an amplifier, a cabinet and a microphone.

AmpliTube UA lets users build virtual guitar and bass rigs by selecting from 21 included gear models that include 5 amplifiers, 9 stompbox effects, 5 cabinets and 2 positionable microphones. The flexible signal path available in AmpliTube UA lets players change the order of effects and amps, and even add effects “after” the amplifier in the signal chain to provide even more creative tonal options.

An expandable amp and effects library
Like all versions of AmpliTube, the base collection of gear can be expanded from within AmpliTube UA. There are currently 22 models available via in-app purchase. All are based on iconic pieces of gear from official brands like Fender, Orange, Ampeg, Soldano and more. There’s also exclusive content available from the artist’s series like AmpliTube Slash and AmpliTube Jimi Hendrix collections.

Universal Android processing
IK say that to get the most out of AmpliTube UA, it needs to be paired with the forthcoming iRig UA digital audio interface (due out in May). The combination of iRig UA and AmpliTube UA delivers universal zero latency processing and high-quality sound on the Android platform. Together they give musicians the ability to play in real-time with no audible device processing delay. This previously impossible feature is now a reality due to iRig UA’s built-in high performance 32-bit DSP, 24-bit A/D converter, 44.1/48kHz sample rate, and low-noise instrument preamp.

AmpliTube UA functions in a “preview” mode when an iRig UA is not connected to the device. This lets musicians build, control and apply custom guitar rigs that can be used with the provided “dry” audio demos. iRig UA is required for audio-in and guitar processing functionality. iRig UA’s on-board digital signal processor works in conjunction with AmpliTube UA app. As of the processing is handled onboard iRig UA, and not on the Android device, it’s able to provide consistent zero-latency performance (down to just 2ms round-trip total latency) independent of the make and model of the connected smartphone or tablet. Or, in other words, it offers the plug-and-play performance that mobile musicians with Android devices crave.

The pairing of iRig UA and AmpliTube UA is great for on-the-go practice and performance. iRig UA features a 1/4″ input for a guitar, bass or other line-level instrument, a micro-USB to OTG cable and a 1/8″ stereo output with volume control for headphones or connection to a live sound speaker, amplifier or mixer. It also sports a 1/8″ AUX input that lets musicians connect any sound source so that they can practice and jam along to their favorite tunes with the power of AmpliTube’s tone.

AmpliTube UA is now available as a free app via the Google Play store. iRig UA will be available May 2015 from music and electronics retailers worldwide, and can also be pre-ordered in the IK online store now for only $99.99 USD/99.99 EUR (excluding taxes).

More information: IK Multimedia