Flextron DC14
Key Features
- Three-channel preamp modeling three distinct eras of the Crate Flexwave circuit, from late-90s to mid-2000s designs
- Dedicated Cooltron tube saturation stage modeled from a real VOX 12AU7 low-voltage tube circuit for authentic harmonic coloration
- Dual-mode stereo reverb with both algorithmic and convolution-based engines for versatile ambience
- Built-in speaker simulator with two cabinet models and an ambience control optimized for headphone practice
- Switchable oversampling for improved audio fidelity at the cost of additional CPU overhead
- Visual analysis tools including real-time EQ curve plotting and stage bias meters for precise tone shaping
- Zero-cost alternative to commercial amp sims, praised by users as rivaling Neural DSP and AmpliTube in tone quality
Description
Flextron DC14 is a virtual-analog guitar amp simulator by AXP that models a range of Crate solid-state amplifiers powered by the Flexwave circuit. Built for the KVR Developer Challenge 2014, it combines two real-world tube emulation technologies — Flexwave by Crate and Cooltron by VOX — replicating a hybrid distortion pedal the developer designed and gigged with.
The plugin features a fully configurable 3-channel preamp with three distinct amp models based on different eras of the Flexwave circuit design. A dedicated Cooltron tube saturation stage, modeled from a real 12AU7 tube running at 6V anode voltage, adds authentic warmth and harmonic richness to the signal chain.
Beyond the core amp modeling, Flextron includes a dual-mode stereo reverb offering both algorithmic and convolution-based engines. A built-in speaker simulator provides two cabinet models with an ambience control designed for practicing through headphones.
Users consistently praise its ability to nail the aggressive, high-gain character of classic Crate GX130C and Ampeg VH140C-style tones, making it a standout for death metal and extreme genres. Switchable oversampling, an EQ curve plot, and stage bias meters round out a feature set that rivals commercial amp simulators costing hundreds of dollars.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What amp models does Flextron DC14 include?
Flextron models three distinct variations of the Crate Flexwave solid-state amplifier circuit spanning different production eras, plus a VOX Cooltron tube saturation stage. The three preamp models cover the late-90s design (which the developer considers the best) through two mid-2000s revisions with significantly different gain channel structures.
Is Flextron DC14 CPU intensive?
CPU usage depends on your system and the oversampling setting. Some users on older hardware have reported high CPU consumption, but on modern processors (i7 or equivalent and newer) this is generally not an issue. You can disable oversampling to reduce CPU load when running multiple instances.
Can Flextron DC14 be used for genres other than metal?
Yes. While its high-gain Crate-style tones are particularly popular for death metal and extreme genres, the three amp models cover a range of gain levels suitable for classic rock, hard rock, and crunch tones. The Cooltron tube stage adds warmth that works across many styles.
Does Flextron include cabinet simulation?
Yes, Flextron has a built-in speaker simulator with two cabinet models and an ambience control. The ambience feature is designed primarily for practicing through headphones, giving a sense of room space without needing an external impulse response loader.
