Looking for metal amp sims that deliver brutal rhythm tone and clear leads—without miking a cab or waking the neighbors? From modern thrash to doom and sludge, here are 5 of the best amp sims for metal in 2025 — tested by a fellow riff addict.
1. MLC S_Zero 100 by Bogren Digital
Why it’s a top metal amp sim: Developed by producer Jens Bogren (Opeth, Amon Amarth, In Flames, Arch Enemy), the S_Zero 100 nails high-gain clarity for tight palm mutes and layered rhythm guitars.
- Perfect for modern thrash / death-metal rhythms
- Low tunings (Drop C and below) with controlled low end
- Polished, mix-ready tones with punch
Bonus: Built-in IRs and cabs that actually work for metal.
🔗 Check it out on Plugin Boutique
2. BIAS FX 2 – Metal Signature Pack
This pack turns BIAS FX 2 into a versatile metal guitar amp sim for rhythm and leads. Great for stacking virtual rigs and dialing expressive lead tones.
- Artist presets from metal legends
- Flexible pedalboard and routing
- Tight, responsive feel for leads and chugs
Includes 12 signature models from Jeff Loomis, Ola Englund, and Keith Merrow.
NOTE: This Metal Signature Pack is an add-on and requires the desktop version of BIAS FX 2.
3. Softube Amp Room – Metal Presets Bundle
A modular, studio-grade platform that becomes a serious amp sim for metal with the Metal Bundle. Ideal if you like blending cabs, mics, and outboard for depth.
- Blend cabs, preamps, compressors, and pedals
- Detailed control for pro mixing
- Realistic room feel and width
🔗 Check it out on Plugin Boutique
4. AmpliTube Orange Collection
More vintage than modern, but still one of the best metal amp sims for doom, stoner, and sludge. Thick mids, fuzzy bite, and huge sustain.
- Fuzzy riffing and slow, heavy grooves
- Classic British saturation that cuts in a mix
- Great for down-tuned guitars
5. Neural DSP (Fortin Nameless, Archetype: Gojira)
Industry-standard realism for high-gain. If you want surgical tightness for modern metal rhythms and clear, aggressive leads, these are hard to beat. Neural Plugins
FAQ: Metal amp sims
What are the best amp sims for metal right now?
For modern rhythm tone: MLC S_Zero 100 and Neural DSP. For flexible rigs and leads: BIAS FX 2 Metal. For doom/stoner: AmpliTube Orange. For deep studio control: Softube Amp Room.
How do I EQ guitars for heavy mixes?
Cut mud around 80–150 Hz, tame boxiness near 400–600 Hz, and add attack around 1.5–4 kHz. See my guide: best EQ for electric guitar – heavy tone tips.
🧨 Final thoughts
You don’t need 4x12s to sound massive. These metal amp sims deliver aggression, articulation, and mix-ready tone straight into your DAW.
💡 Want to hear some of these amp sims in action? Check out my metal backing tracks and hear these tones in a real mix.