If you're into recording music, you've probably heard about reamping. It’s a great way to take a clean recording and run it through different amps and effects to see what kind of sound you can get. Basically, it lets you take one recording and reshape it in all sorts of ways without having to record it again. That’s what makes reamping so cool.
Reamp boxes are the key to making reamping easy and smooth. With a reamp box, you can adjust your sound just the way you want, adding effects and creating the perfect tone. These little gadgets save a ton of time and make everything run more smoothly, especially when you’re deep in the creative process. If you’re a guitarist, bassist, or audio engineer, a reamp box is super handy to have around.
So we’ve put together a list of the best reamp boxes for 2024. Whether you’re just starting out or have been doing this for years, there’s something here for every budget and skill level. Each one on our list is chosen to give you the quality and flexibility you need.
Picking the right reamp box can feel a bit overwhelming with so many options. But don’t worry. We’ll walk you through what to look for so you can find the one that fits your setup and gives you the sound you want.
Ready to check out the options and find the right reamp box for you? Let’s go through our top picks and find the one that’ll bring your recordings to life.
Quick List of the Best Reamp Boxes
- Radial X-Amp – Best Overall
- ART Dual RDB – Best Budget Reamp Box
- IK Multimedia TONEX Capture – Best Active Reamp Box
- Walrus Canvas Reamp – Best Under $200
- Little Labs Redeye 3D Phantom – Best High-End Option
- Radial Reamp HP – Best Simple Reamp Box
- Radial ProRMP – Best Simple Passive Reamp Box
- Palmer Trave Reamp Box – Best for Flexibility
What is a Reamp Box and Why You Need One
A reamp box is a handy tool that musicians and producers love. It lets you take a recorded track and send it back through amps and effects to shape it in new ways. Think of it as a way to go back and play with your sound after you’ve already recorded it.
Here’s how it works. The reamp box takes the signal from your audio interface and adjusts it so it matches what an instrument needs. This means you can plug your recorded track into an amp or pedal, just like you would with a guitar or bass.
With a reamp box, you can:
- Try out different amps without having to record the whole thing again
- Play around with various pedal combinations to find the perfect vibe
- Fine-tune your sound long after you’ve finished recording
Reamp boxes give you tons of flexibility in the studio. You can focus on getting a great performance first and then dive into shaping the sound later.
And they’re not just for guitars. You can use reamp boxes with bass, synths, and sometimes even vocals.
For live shows, they’re also pretty useful. You can send pre-recorded tracks through real amps on stage, which helps keep your sound consistent every night.
The best part? Reamp boxes make it easy to experiment with different tones and effects without needing everyone to stick around in the studio. They save time and open up new ways to get creative with your sound.
If you’re serious about recording, a reamp box is a tool worth having. It’s a great way to add depth to your recordings and makes the whole process a lot more fun and flexible.
Best Reamp Boxes
We’ve tested a bunch of reamp boxes to bring you the top picks. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to invest in something high-end, these options will help you get that professional sound in your home studio.
Radial X-Amp
The Radial X Amp is a real standout with its dual outputs and clean, noise-free sound. It’s definitely on the pricier side, but it packs some serious benefits.
Pros
- Dual outputs for flexible reamping
- Class A signal path for clear and crisp sound
- Built-in noise reduction to keep hum and buzz out
Cons
- Price is a bit high compared to other options
- Output volume could be stronger
- Only one input channel
The Radial X Amp offers impressive dual outputs, allowing you to reamp to two different amps at once. This not only saves time but also opens up creative ways to experiment with your sound.
The Class A signal path really stands out. Compared to our old reamp box, the X Amp brings more detail and clarity to our tracks, almost like giving them a fresh breath of life.
One of the best parts of the X Amp is its built-in noise reduction. Thanks to the isolated transformer, hum and buzz are pretty much gone, so we can stay focused on the music without any annoying background noise.
Of course, there are a few things to consider. The price is on the higher side, so it’s worth thinking about your budget before diving in. Also, the output volume can be a bit low, so we sometimes need to crank it up to hit the right levels.
And while it only has one input channel, that’s usually fine for most setups. But if you’re planning to reamp multiple sources at the same time, you may want to explore other options.
Overall, if you’re looking to upgrade your studio setup and add some flexibility to your recordings, the Radial X Amp is a solid pick. It brings quality, creativity, and control into your hands, making it an excellent addition for anyone serious about sound.
ART Dual RDB
The ART Dual RDB is a great pick for anyone looking for a flexible and affordable reamp box. It brings a lot of value and useful features to the table.
Pros
- Dual-channel functionality
- Multiple input/output options
- Built-in ground loop prevention
Cons
- Slight signal attenuation
- No power required (passive design)
- Limited EQ options
The ART Dual RDB is a flexible and affordable choice for anyone looking to add a solid reamp box to their setup. Its dual-channel design is super handy, letting you work with stereo signals or two separate sources at the same time, making it feel like you’re getting two reamp boxes in one.
One of the things we love most is its flexibility. With both XLR and quarter-inch inputs and outputs, you can connect almost any piece of gear, and the level controls let you adjust the signal strength right from the box.
The isolation transformers are a huge plus as well. They’ve saved us from those annoying ground loop hums more times than we can count. When it comes to sound quality, it’s fantastic. We’ve used it for reamping guitars, connecting pro audio equipment, and even live performances, and it consistently delivers great results.
Overall, the ART Dual RDB is a great choice if you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-use reamp box. It’s affordable, versatile, and does the job well every time.
IK Multimedia TONEX Capture
If you’re looking to dive into tone modeling and reamping, the TONEX Capture is a fantastic pick. It’s a compact tool that packs a lot of flexibility, perfect for musicians who want both DI and reamping in one box.
Pros
- Two-in-one DI and reamp box
- Creates amp tone models without mics
- Eliminates noise with ground lift
Cons
- Setup can be confusing
- Requires additional interface
- Limited standalone functionality
This little box makes capturing the sound of amps and pedals simple, with no need for a microphone. If you’ve ever wanted to model tones without a lot of extra gear, the TONEX Capture does the job nicely.
The sound quality really stands out. The ground lift feature is a lifesaver for getting rid of annoying hum and background noise, keeping your recordings clean. Connecting it to amps and pedals through our audio interface was easy, and the signal stayed clear and steady.
Setting it up can take a little time, so it helps to be patient as you get everything connected. Since it doesn’t come with an audio interface, you’ll need one to make the most of it. But once everything’s set, the TONEX Capture brings a ton of tonal possibilities to your setup.
The reamping feature is a great addition too. It allows us to tweak guitar tones after recording, which saves time and helps keep the creative flow going. Plus, the ability to capture and save these tones makes it easy to build a library of sounds.
While it may not replace high-end modelers, the TONEX Capture gives great value for anyone looking to explore tone modeling in a home studio. It’s a fantastic option if you want digital tone flexibility without spending a fortune.
Walrus Canvas Reamp
If you’re looking for a reamp box that brings both quality and flexibility, the Walrus Canvas Reamp is a fantastic pick. This little box delivers impressive reamping results, making it a great choice for both home studios and pro setups.
Pros
- Flat frequency response
- Custom wound transformer
- Dual input options
Cons
- Limited user reviews
- Higher price point
The Walrus Canvas Reamp handles reamping beautifully, keeping tones true and clear, whether you’re working with guitars or synths. It’s like plugging directly into your amp or pedals but with added control over the signal.
One of its best features is the dual input options. Whether you’re using XLR or quarter-inch cables, the Canvas Reamp has you covered. We tried both, and the sound quality stayed consistent across the board.
At the core of this unit is a custom-wound transformer that makes a real difference. It helps match impedance for the best possible tone when running tracks through pedals and amps, and we could hear the improvement in tone quality during testing.
Although the Canvas Reamp is still fairly new, it’s already getting noticed. While it’s not the cheapest reamp box around, it’s definitely worth considering if sound quality is a top priority.
Little Labs Redeye 3D
The Little Labs Redeye 3D is a fantastic pick if you’re after great sound and easy handling for both direct recording and reamping.
Pros
- Great sound for direct recording and re-amping
- User-friendly design
- Versatile with multiple functions
Cons
- Limited input/output options
- Few setup guides available online
- Pricier than basic DI boxes
The Little Labs Redeye 3D Phantom is perfect for capturing clean, dry signals or bringing new life to tracks through reamping. It’s ready to go right out of the box, so you can dive in without any fuss.
The sound quality is where it really shines. When we plugged in guitars and basses, the direct recordings sounded clear and detailed. Using it for reamping gave our tracks a fresh depth and warmth, adding that extra something we all love.
One of the best things about this box is its flexibility. It works well as both a DI and a reamp unit, and the gain control is a nice touch that lets you set just the right level for each track.
A couple of things to keep in mind: the Redeye could use a few more input and output options, so it might be a tight fit if you’re working with a bigger setup. Also, setup resources online are a bit sparse, so you might need to play around a bit to find the ideal settings.
While it’s priced higher than basic DI boxes, we think the sound quality and versatility make it worth it. It’s a great choice for both home studios and pros who are up for a little experimentation to get the best sound possible.
Radial Reamp HP
If you’re looking for a reamp box that’s both versatile and easy to use, the Radial Reamp HP is a great choice. It handles various audio sources smoothly, making it a solid pick for any setup.
Pros
- Flexible passive DI box for multiple audio sources
- Compatible with 1/4-inch and 3.5mm inputs
- Built-in isolation transformer eliminates noise
Cons
- Limited to right channel of headphone output
- May require additional adapters for some setups
- Slightly pricey for a single-channel reamp box
The Radial Reamp HP may be small, but it packs plenty of power and flexibility. One of the best parts is how easily it connects to your headphone output, so you can reamp guitar, bass, and vocal tracks without needing to rearrange everything.
The mono switch is a really handy feature, letting you combine stereo tracks into mono. This comes in super handy when you’re working on more complex mixes. The fact that it works with both quarter-inch and 3.5mm inputs opens up a lot of possibilities. We’ve even used it with smartphones for some fun, creative sound experiments.
We love how clean the signal is with this reamp box. The built-in isolation transformer and ground lift switch take care of any annoying hum and buzz, making the whole reamping process a lot smoother and more enjoyable.
Yes, it’s a bit more expensive than some single-channel options, but the Radial Reamp HP is absolutely worth it for the quality and versatility it brings to the table. It’s a fantastic addition to any studio.
Radial ProRMP
The Radial ProRMP is a solid pick for reamping, giving you reliable performance and a sturdy build that’s ready for anything.
Pros
- Passive design eliminates need for external power
- Custom transformer prevents ground loops
- Durable steel construction
Cons
- Pricier than some alternatives
- Limited features compared to higher-end models
- May require additional gear for full setup
The ProRMP keeps reamping simple and easy. Just plug it in and you’re ready to start shaping your tone without any fuss.
One of the things we love most is the passive design. You don’t have to worry about finding a power source or dealing with batteries. The custom transformer is also a big help, clearing up those annoying ground loops that can really mess with your sound.
This box is built to last. It can handle the bumps and drops of everyday studio life without missing a beat. The no slip pad on the bottom is also a nice touch, keeping it steady on a crowded desk.
The level control is a great feature that lets you adjust the signal just right for your amps. It’s smooth and easy to use, giving you control over your tone. The ProRMP opens up a lot of creative options, letting you try out different amp and pedal combinations.
While it may not have all the extras you’d find in more expensive models, the ProRMP is a great balance between quality and cost. It’s become one of our studio essentials, helping us bring new energy to our tracks.
Palmer Trave Reamp Box
The Palmer Trave is a solid pick for anyone who wants flexible reamping and great sound quality. It’s easy to use, and the sound is fantastic.
Pros
- Passive design needs no power supply
- Prevents ground loop hum
- Adjustable output level
Cons
- Slightly pricey for beginners
- Limited to one output channel
- Lacks some advanced features
The Palmer Trave makes reamping easy and hassle-free. We love that you don’t have to worry about finding a power source as it works right out of the box.
One thing that really stands out is how well it converts line-level signals to instrument level. It works like a charm with guitars and basses, and it even handles keyboards and drums beautifully. Plus, the Trave’s design keeps ground loop hum out of the picture. If you’ve ever dealt with that, you know how frustrating it can be. The ground lift switch is a lifesaver here.
We also appreciate the flexibility with input options. You can switch between consumer and pro levels, so it plays nicely with all sorts of gear. The output level control is smooth and gives you a good range for dialing in the tone you want.
The Trave kept our sound clean and natural, with no extra color added. You can tell Palmer put a lot of thought into the design, especially with the transformer.
While it may not be the cheapest reamp box, we think the Trave is worth it. It’s built to last and does the job really well, making it a great addition to any studio setup for anyone serious about recording.
What to Look for in a Reamp Box
When you’re choosing a reamp box, there are a few things to keep in mind. You’ll want to look at signal quality, the type of box, connection options, and features to help reduce noise.
Signal Integrity
Signal quality is key in a reamp box. High-quality transformers are a big part of keeping your original sound clear and true. They help make sure your audio stays crisp and full of character.
A good signal-to-noise ratio also matters. This keeps your reamp box from adding extra noise to the signal, so your audio sounds clean and close to the original.
Some reamp boxes come with clipping indicators, which are handy to have. These show you when your levels are getting too high, helping you avoid distortion and keep your signal strong.
Types of Reamp Boxes: Active vs Passive
Reamp boxes come in two main types: active and passive. Each type has its own strengths and can work better for different needs.
Active reamp boxes need power to run and usually come with extra features like gain controls, which can be great for adjusting your signal level.
Passive boxes, on the other hand, are simpler and don’t need any power. They’re easy to set up and can be more portable too.
Choosing between active and passive really depends on your setup. If you like having more control over the signal, go for an active box. If you prefer a simpler, plug-and-play approach, a passive box might be the way to go.
Connectivity
Think about the connectivity options too. Most reamp boxes offer XLR and quarter-inch inputs and outputs, so they work with a wide range of gear.
Some models even have dual outputs, letting you connect to more than one amp at a time. This can give you more flexibility and lets you experiment with different setups.
If you work with stereo sources, look for a reamp box that can handle that too. This opens up more options for creative reamping.
Ground Lift
Ground loops can be a real nuisance, bringing unwanted hum and noise into your sound, especially in complex setups with lots of gear.
A ground lift feature can help with this, getting rid of that extra noise. This feature is really useful in both studio and live settings and helps keep your audio clean and professional.
When choosing a reamp box, these features can make all the difference in getting the best sound and making your setup as smooth as possible.
Final Thoughts
Reamping is a fantastic tool for musicians and producers, giving you the freedom to reshape recorded tracks and try out endless tones, whether you’re in the studio or performing live.
A good reamp box is what makes it all possible. If you’re looking for the best quality, we recommend the Radial X Amp. It delivers clear signal conversion and is built tough to handle whatever you throw at it.
For those on a tighter budget, the ART Dual RDB is a great option. It offers solid performance without costing too much, making it a smart choice if you want quality on a budget.
Investing in a good reamp box is definitely worth it. It adds creative control and brings out the best in your sound, helping to take your music to the next level.
Whether you go with the X Amp, the Dual RDB, or another option, pick the one that fits your needs and budget. The right reamp box will open up exciting new possibilities for your music and give you a whole new level of control over your sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a reamp box?
A reamp box is a tool that lets you take a recorded track and send it back through amps, pedals, or effects to explore different sounds. It converts a balanced line-level signal into an instrument-level signal, so you can try out new tones without needing to re-record anything.
Reamping saves time and opens up a lot of creative options, making it a great tool for both pro studios and home setups.
What is the difference between a DI box and a reamp box?
DI boxes and reamp boxes have opposite purposes. A DI box turns an instrument-level signal into a balanced mic-level signal for recording. A reamp box does the reverse, changing a recorded signal back to instrument level.
You use a DI box when recording to get a clean signal, while a reamp box comes in during mixing to help you experiment with different tones.
Do I need a reamping box?
If you’re a guitarist, bassist, or producer, a reamp box can be super useful. It’s great for testing different amp sounds or effects after you’ve already recorded a track.
A reamp box can be a good investment if you like to experiment with your sound. While it isn’t essential for everyone, it’s a handy tool if you want to explore specific amps and effects without constantly re-recording.
Can I reamp without a reamp box?
Technically, yes, you can reamp without a dedicated box by plugging your interface directly into an amp, but it doesn’t always work well.
Without a reamp box, you might run into issues with impedance mismatches and unwanted noise, which can mess with your signal and affect the quality of your sound.
Can you use a DI box as a reamp box?
DI boxes and reamp boxes both convert signals, but they’re made for different jobs. Trying to use a DI box for reamping usually won’t give you the results you want.
DI boxes turn instrument-level signals into line level, not the other way around, so you might have trouble with signal strength and impedance when using a DI box to reamp.
Some high-end units combine DI and reamp functions, but for most setups, a dedicated reamp box will give you the best quality and results.