It seems that Cakewalk keeps changing the amp sims it includes with Sonar. I got Amplitube with Sonar awhile back. Apparently Guitar Rig also used to be included. Now TH2 is included instead. Is each change an improvement over what came before, or just the current agreement between software companies? I'm just wondering if I should invest any more in Amplitube or go with one of the others. How do they compare?

I think they're all great to have around. Guitar Rig for the effects chains (especially if you have all the Komplete effects as well), Amplitube has a clean crunch which just loves my Tele, and TH2 I think is the best overall for guitar sound. 

I have all 3 of the full versions and GR5 is my go to. So GR5/TH2/Amplitube for me.

YMMV

Dapper


It seems that Cakewalk keeps changing the amp sims it includes with Sonar. I got Amplitube with Sonar awhile back. Apparently Guitar Rig also used to be included. Now TH2 is included instead. Is each change an improvement over what came before, or just the current agreement between software companies? I'm just wondering if I should invest any more in Amplitube or go with one of the others. How do they compare?

I think the changes are either based on the agreements within the companies, or Sonar decides they want something different. To be honest, I'm really impressed with GR 5. It's a little noisey with higher gain sounds, but it's very realistic. Amplitube that came with Sonar was good for the times....but nothing like the version you can get today which is also really good. As for TH2, I think it is also another great guitar tool. I only have the one that comes with X2, but I think it was a nice change.
 
Guitar sims are like owning a few different pre-amps or amps. It's nice to have a few because they have different strengths and weaknesses. They all compare quite well, but it becomes a personal preference thing really. One guy will tell you Guitar Rig is the best out there, another will tell you "the free version of TH2 that we get with Sonar isn't even a good representation of what the pay version can do!" And then you'll get someone that will come on like me...and tell you to go check out Acme Bar Gig's "Head Case" because I work for the company and helped to build/develope it. LOL! :)
 
But seriously, all the stuff you mentioned is good...it just depends what one you personally prefer that will compliment your style. If you liked GR 3 and 4, you'll love GR 5. If you liked that old version of Amplitube years ago, you'll absolutely love their latest stuff. If you like the free version of TH2, I've been told the pay version really is awesome...though I haven't bought it yet. Unfortunately, it's just something you'll need to try for yourself or do a little research on to see what sounds may be floating around using those sims. Try Youtube to see who may have posted sound clips or something. This way you'll have a better representation on what may work for your particular needs. This sort of thing is always going to be subjective though and in the ears of the beholder. So be careful who you listen to on this stuff.
 
-Danny

Hello, I have the full versions of GR5 and TH2. TH2 sounds more organic with great dynamics. I could even think I am playing through the real thing. Nice change for CW. Thanks. 

Scuffman S-Gear is pretty solid too.

i think its pretty cool the way sonar gives a sample of a new vst for guitars in each version.
i mylesf am a guitar rig person,but to each there own.
 
i dont rely on what sonar is putting in the package as my go to bread and butter.
this is a desicion that needs great testing on to find the one i like.
i do admire th2's sounds though and have found some great sounds with that.
 
but like danny says(the guy always seems to know the right thing to say)
i think cake works a deal with a developer for each version and its probably just as benificial to both cake and the vst supplier.

Having the right gear is good, but what I really think is great is the capability of changing the selected "gear" over what you just played. We can test many different options super quick. I really like that during recording /processing. 

I have the full version of GR5. But have to admit the TH2 sounds much better than i expected! You cant go wrong with any of them. But if i had to pick one it would be GR5.

another vote for Scuffman S-Gear - its reasonably priced and centres around quality rather than quantity.