In the world of virtual instrument production, few names command as much respect in the rock and metal community as Ample Sound. With the release of Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 (available for both Windows and macOS), the developer has once again raised the bar for what a sampled guitar can achieve. This latest iteration isn't just a minor patch—it's a significant overhaul that refines tone, playability, and the user experience.
For producers, songwriters, and metalheads who lack access to a professional recording studio or a top-tier guitarist, this plugin is a game-changer. Below, we dive deep into every aspect of this release, from its sampling technology to its powerful strummer engine.
The main rivals are Shreddage 3 Hydra (Impact Soundworks) and Odyssey Guitars (Kontakt). Here’s how Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 stands out:
| Feature | Ample Eclipse v3.1.0 | Shreddage 3 Hydra | |--------|----------------------|--------------------| | Tone character | Warm, thick, passive pickups | Bright, active pickup style | | Strummer | Advanced 3.0 engine | None (requires separate pattern tool) | | Legato performance | Ultra-realtime, low latency | Good, but slightly heavier on CPU | | Built-in FX | 6 amps + 8 cabs + pedal chain | No built-in amps (requires external) | | Price | ~$169 USD (often on sale) | ~$149 USD |
For pure, drop-tuned metalcore, death metal, or hard rock, the Eclipse’s passive-pickup warmth and top-tier legato make it the winner in most blind tests.
To understand the plugin, one must first understand the wood and wire behind it. Ample Sound didn’t just sample "a metal guitar"; they sampled a specific archetype of tone. The library is based on the ESP Eclipse, a guitar that has become the workhorse for modern metal. Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 -WiN-OSX-
While visually reminiscent of the classic single-cutaway blues axes, the Eclipse is a different beast entirely. It typically features a mahogany body with a maple top, but it is loaded with high-output humbuckers (often EMGs or high-gain Seymours) and designed for one thing: driving an amplifier into saturation.
Ample Sound captured this instrument with the specific goal of replicating the "chug." This isn’t a jazz box; it’s a rhythm machine. The sampling sessions focused on the low-end resonance required for drop-tuning metal riffs, capturing the aggressive attack that defines genres from Metalcore to Djent.
Visit the official Ample Sound website or authorized resellers like Best Service or Plugin Boutique. Watch for summer or Black Friday sales, where you can pick up Eclipse for as low as $119.
Also check out the free version: Ample Guitar M Lite II – limited but a great starting point for the Ample Sound ecosystem.
Article by [Your Name] – Metal producer & sound designer.
Last updated: March 2025 – reflecting Ample Sound v3.1.0 changelog. In the world of virtual instrument production, few
Title: A Game-Changing Metal Guitar Plugin for Music Producers
Rating: 4.5/5
Overview: Ample Sound's Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 is a powerful and versatile metal guitar plugin that has revolutionized my music production workflow. As a music producer and guitarist, I was blown away by the plugin's exceptional sound quality, intuitive interface, and robust feature set.
Pros:
Cons:
Verdict: Ample Sound's Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 is an outstanding metal guitar plugin that's a must-have for serious music producers. Its exceptional sound quality, customization options, and user-friendly interface make it an invaluable addition to any DAW. If you're looking to elevate your metal productions and achieve authentic, professional-grade guitar tones, Ample Metal Eclipse is an excellent choice.
Recommendations:
System Requirements:
Overall, I'm thoroughly impressed with Ample Sound's Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking to upgrade their metal productions with exceptional guitar tones.
Here’s a useful, informative write-up for Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 (WiN & macOS). It’s written for musicians, producers, and composers looking to understand what this virtual instrument offers. Article by [Your Name] – Metal producer & sound designer