IK Multimedia has announced a compact 15/7.5 Watt practice guitar amp complete with integrated iOS/USB interface .
Called the iRig Micro Amp, it offers three on-board analogue channels plus a digital interface for direct connection to iPhone, iPad, Mac and PC. IK says this allows users to expand their tone palettes by unlocking a variety of amp and FX models in the included AmpliTube software/app bundle, as well as connecting to their favourite apps for learning, recording and playing. ‘The iRig Micro Amp also offers powerful sound that rivals larger amps, plus the ability to connect to external cabinets for even more volume,’ the manufacturer claims.
Weighing only 2.6 lbs. (1.2 kg), iRig Micro Amp is claimed to be one of the most compact amps in its power range and fits in a backpack.
Derived from IK’s iRig HD 2 mobile guitar interface, iRig Micro Amp’s iOS/USB connection lets players connect to their iPhone and iPad directly without additional accessories. Additionally, it connects to a Mac or PC to process their tone with IK’s AmpliTube and use their favourite practice, performance and recording apps and software. The guitar’s signal is sent to their device for processing, and the return output plays back directly through the amp’s 4″ speaker, eliminating the need for other accessories.
With the included AmpliTube app and software, iRig Micro Amp users can download AmpliTube to unlock 10 amps and 26 stompbox effects in AmpliTube CS for iPhone or iPad, and 9 amps/10 stomps in AmpliTube 4 for Mac/PC, for free. Guitarists can also expand their sonic collection via IK’s range of additional amp and effect models – there are over 280 pieces to choose from.
The iRig Micro Amp is fully compatible with dozens of popular learning, practice and performance apps, making it fun and easy for guitarists to learn new licks, polish their technique, or jam along with their favourite song and is compatible with a range of apps including GarageBand. Users can even connect to professional recording software like Logic, Pro Tools, Cubase, Ableton Live and more, creating a convenient desktop set-up for use on the go.
The iRig Micro Amp is powered by six AA batteries (for the 7.5 Watt output – 15 Watts are available when mains powered via an optional 9V power supply). It includes an auxiliary input and headphones out for silent practice, as well as a cabinet output to power external speakers for band practice or smaller gigs.