ReValver 5 Free Review: 2 Pro Guitar Amps & Effects Tested

ReValver 5 Free Version: Surprising Professional Quality

If you're searching for free guitar amp plugins that actually deliver professional tones, Headrush's ReValver 5 free edition deserves your attention. After testing the included gear extensively, I can confirm these aren't watered-down models but fully functional tools suitable for recording and practice. The secret lies in its ACTT instrument modeling technology which accurately replicates tube response and speaker interactions. Whether you play metal cleans or bluesy crunch, this package covers surprising ground without costing a dime.

Included Amp Models Breakdown

1. PV Valve King Mark 2
Modeled after Peavey's iconic amp, this two-channel workhorse delivers:

• Channel 1: Sparkling cleans that take pedals beautifully
• Channel 2: Versatile crunch to high-gain distortion
  Pro Tip: Pair it with the included 4x12 cabinet and experiment with mic positions (bottom/top speakers) for tonal variety. The clean channel shines when pushed by the bundled "Light Green" tubescreamer-style pedal.

2. Custom Light 20 Watt
Based on the Peavey Sensation 20, this open-back combo offers:

• Vintage-voiced cleans with natural compression
• Edge-of-breakup character perfect for blues and rock
  Key Finding: Its 1x12 cabinet simulation provides airy, room-filling tones distinct from the Valve King's tight 4x12 response.

Essential Effects & Routing Capabilities

Beyond amps, ReValver 5 free includes three studio-grade effects:

1. "Light Green" Overdrive
   Transparent boost to aggressive mid-hump drive

2. Studio/Tank Reverb
   Switchable between plate-style and spring tank emulations

3. Boss TR-2 Tremolo
   Authentic amplitude modulation with speed/depth controls

Signal chain flexibility allows:

• Parallel processing via dual chains
• Built-in tuner and noise gate
• Output EQ and compression for final polish
• ACTT schematic editing (right-click any component to swap tubes/circuitry)

Advanced Features You Can Actually Use

While free, ReValver 5 doesn't skimp on pro features:

Tweak Schematic Mode
Right-click any amp component to modify:

• Tube types (12AX7 vs EL34)
• Resistor/capacitor values
• Circuit path rerouting

Cabinet Flexibility
Mix and match cabinets between amps. The Sensation 20's open-back cab pairs exceptionally well with the Valve King's high-gain channel for reduced low-mud.

Smart Routing
Use the output module's dual-chain mixer to blend processed and dry signals—crucial for maintaining attack clarity with high-gain tones.

Limitations & Upgrade Path

The free version has intentional constraints:

• Only 2 amps and 2 cabinets
• No included delay pedal
• Limited to 3 effects slots

However, expansions start at just $20. Considering the free version's quality, paid models become compelling investments.

4-Step Setup Checklist

1. Install via Headrush's website (no iLok required)
2. Start simple: Valve King + 4x12 cab on Channel 2
3. Add "Light Green" drive before amp for tighter distortion
4. Enable output compressor at 4:1 ratio for balanced levels

Why This Stands Among Free Amp Sims

After comparing ReValver 5 to other free options, three advantages stand out:

1. Component-level tweaking—unmatched in free plugins
2. Authentic cabinet resonance via ACTT modeling
3. Zero latency even on modest CPUs

As one guitarist commented during testing: "It responds like my real tube amp when digging into chords."

Final Verdict

ReValver 5's free version punches above its weight, delivering professional-grade tones that work across genres. While expansion packs enhance its capabilities, the included gear alone suffices for home recording. If you struggle with sterile amp sims, the Valve King's organic breakup and schematic tweaks will feel revolutionary.

Which amp model are you most excited to try? Share your setup questions below—I'll respond with personalized signal chain advice!