Rack Mount Guitar Effects
Buyers Guide
The perfect combination of versatility, portability and customisation. Rack mount guitar effects and amps are the way to go if you're after the ultimate personalised sound setup.
Let's take a more detailed look at what they are, how they work and how you might go about putting a rack rig together.
What are Rack Mount amps and effects?
Imagine your 'normal' guitar setup. You plug your instrument into a pedalboard of effects, which then connects to your amp and finally the amp speaker. A rack mount amp and effects unit condenses each of these aspects into thin modules you then slot into a rack mount case. With the exception of the speaker, every part of that original setup is far more compact and customisable.
Rack mount gear was extremely popular during the nineties and noughties. They provided a way for pro musicians to transport their rigs without the hassle of lugging round separate heavy bits of equipment. In a studio setting, it meant they could tailor their perfect guitar tone. The evolution of the modelling amp has had a large influence on how rack mount effects can be used today. Now, it's possible to access an infinite amount of guitar sounds – if you're willing to invest the time.
Why use rack mount gear?
Rack mount rigs provide the most in-depth tone customisation of any style guitar setup. You can mix and match the exact components you want to get your specific sound.
The rise of uber realistic-sounding modelling amps such as the Kemper Profiling amp, Fractal Axe FX and Line 6 Helix – all available in rack form – allow you to dial in patches. These patches are your different guitar tones. They incorporate everything you need to curate a personalised tone, from preamp and power amps to effects, and even cab and mic simulation. You can recall all your customised patches with one tap of a MIDI footswitch. Yes, it's all digital. But we doubt many could spot the difference between a Plexi amp emulation and the real thing. You're also getting the exact same sound wherever you go.
Another major benefit of a rack setup is the real-time control over sound switching, which is what we all strive for whether we're playing live, at home or recording. It allows for seamless jumps from tone-to-tone and far less pedalboard tap dancing. You'll never have to memorise dizzying amp and pedal settings ever again.
The main couple drawbacks of a rack rig are the steep learning curve and the price. Building a rack will cost you a lot more than an amp and pedalboard – but the access you have to every guitar tone that has ever exited does make up for it. Making sure the gear is connected correctly, plus the menu diving will take extra care and attention.
How to build a rack mount setup
Rack gear is standardised to a universal size of 19 inches, so you don't have to worry about getting the wrong kit. You'll need a rack mount case, a preamp module and a power amp if you intend to plug into a speaker. Fryette are the industry leaders for pro level power amps. If you're recording direct into an audio interface or front-of-house mixer with no intention of using a speaker, you can ditch the power amp all together.
The popular modern day choice is to use a digital modelling amp in place of an analogue preamp. But if you want to go down the old school route, the likes of Laney and Mesa Boogie still make their classic amps in rack configuration. For this you'll also need as separate rack mount cab simulator; Two Notes are top of the game here.
From there, it's all about effects. Modelling amps incorporate all your guitar pedal sounds, but if you want to do things a little out of the ordinary, it isn't unheard of to stash a small pedal chain in a slot on your rack. There's also the option of stand-alone multi FX rack units like the Gamechanger Audio Plasma.
Want to Learn More?
For more information, check out our dedicated guides:
