Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse V3.1.0 -win-osx- < NEWEST ✰ >
While metal is often associated with single-note riffs, chugging chords are the foundation of the genre. Eclipse includes Ample’s updated Strummer engine. This allows users to program full 6-string chords with realistic upstrokes and downstrokes. For "djent" style players, the Strummer engine allows for rapid-fire chord stabs that would be incredibly difficult to sequence manually in a piano roll. You aren't just playing notes; you are conducting a performance.
The built-in Riffer is a game-changer for songwriters. It is a sequencer designed specifically for guitar parts. You can drag and drop MIDI patterns into your DAW or create your own riffs within the plugin interface. It supports custom grooves, time signatures, and articulation changes, making composition fast and intuitive.
Ample Sound has long been a dominant force in the world of virtual instruments, bridging the gap between MIDI programming and realistic guitar performance. With the release of Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0, they have raised the bar for metal production. This instrument is designed for producers, composers, and musicians who demand high-gain, aggressive guitar tones without the hassle of setting up amps, microphones, and real guitars.
To understand the plugin, one must first understand the wood and wire behind it. Ample Sound didn’t just sample "a metal guitar"; they sampled a specific archetype of tone. The library is based on the ESP Eclipse, a guitar that has become the workhorse for modern metal.
While visually reminiscent of the classic single-cutaway blues axes, the Eclipse is a different beast entirely. It typically features a mahogany body with a maple top, but it is loaded with high-output humbuckers (often EMGs or high-gain Seymours) and designed for one thing: driving an amplifier into saturation.
Ample Sound captured this instrument with the specific goal of replicating the "chug." This isn’t a jazz box; it’s a rhythm machine. The sampling sessions focused on the low-end resonance required for drop-tuning metal riffs, capturing the aggressive attack that defines genres from Metalcore to Djent.
Visit the official Ample Sound website or authorized resellers like Best Service or Plugin Boutique. Watch for summer or Black Friday sales, where you can pick up Eclipse for as low as $119.
Also check out the free version: Ample Guitar M Lite II – limited but a great starting point for the Ample Sound ecosystem.
Article by [Your Name] – Metal producer & sound designer.
Last updated: March 2025 – reflecting Ample Sound v3.1.0 changelog.
Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0: The Ultimate Virtual ESP for Metal
Ample Metal Eclipse (AME) v3.1.0 is a high-performance virtual instrument designed to bring the aggressive, precision-heavy tone of the ESP Eclipse I guitar to digital audio workstations (DAWs). As the flagship of Ample Sound's Metal series, it is meticulously sampled to handle everything from bone-crushing low-tuned riffs to searing leads with absolute realism. Core Sound and Sampling
The heart of AME lies in its deep sample library, recorded using the bridge pickup of an ESP Eclipse.
Massive Library: It features a 3.5 GB to 4.6 GB sample pool (depending on the specific sub-version and library install) that covers every single fret.
Standard Metal Tuning: The default tuning is set to C G C F A D, the industry standard for modern heavy music.
Expressive Dynamics: It utilizes "Cycle+" technology, which triples the number of sample cycles to eliminate the "machine gun effect" during fast, repeated notes. Advanced Articulations & Performance
Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 includes 10 essential articulations to replicate authentic guitar techniques: Sustain & Palm Mute: The bread and butter of metal rhythm.
Natural & Pinch Harmonics: For those iconic "squeals" in leads.
Legato Slide, Hammer-On, & Pull-Off: Enabled by a polyphonic legato smoother for realistic transitions at any speed. Pop & Tap: Adding modern technical flair to solos. Key Features of the v3 Engine
The v3.1.0 update brought significant workflow enhancements to the Ample Sound ecosystem: YouTube·In the DAW Ample Sound Metal Eclipse Quick Look
and I just thought I would take a look at this and show you how I actually like to use it because we have a full video going over. YouTube·HIFIMIDI AmpleMetal Eclipse Review and Demo (ESP Eclipse I VST)
Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0: The Ultimate Virtual ESP Eclipse for Metal
Ample Metal Eclipse (AME) is a premier virtual electric guitar guitar plugin
specifically engineered for the aggressive demands of heavy metal and hard rock. Based on meticulously recorded samples of an ESP Eclipse I Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
, this version 3.1.0 update brings significant enhancements to its engine, offering a highly realistic and expressive playing experience for both Windows and Mac users. Core Sound and Sampling
At the heart of Ample Metal Eclipse is a 4.6 GB sample library captured from the bridge pickup of an ESP Eclipse I. The library features:
High-Gain Precision: Designed for styles like Progressive Metal, Metalcore, and Djent.
Articulations: Includes 10 essential techniques: Sustain, Palm Mute, Natural Harmonic, Hammer-On & Pull-Off, Legato Slide, Slide In/Out, Pop, Pinch Harmonic, and Tap.
Extended Range: Supports drop tuning down to C1 (standard for contemporary heavy music).
Realistic Nuance: Features authentic left-hand performance noises and a "Stroke Noise" system that adds a metallic harmonic attack when strumming. Advanced Engine Features
The v3.1.0 update utilizes the powerful Ample Guitar 3 (AG3) engine, introducing several creative tools:
Riffer 4: A specialized MIDI editor for plucked instruments with a "Dice" random generator to spark new song ideas. It offers dual views—Piano Roll and Guitar Tab—allowing for seamless editing.
Strummer: Optimized for heavy music with power chord defaults and 28 play styles per chord.
Tab Reader 4: Supports importing Guitar Pro files (GP3 up to GP8) with full preservation of fingering and technique data.
Polyphonic Legato: Enables realistic slides and legato transitions across any interval and speed, preventing the "machine gun" effect on repeated notes. Built-in AMP and FX System
Ample Metal Eclipse includes an integrated processing suite, eliminating the immediate need for external plugins:
AMP Simulator: Features 7 classic amp models (e.g., Metal Double, Metal Treble, Lead 800) and 8 cabinets, each with 8 microphone options. Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 -WiN-OSX-
FX Rack: An 8-band EQ, compressor with visual feedback, 6-tap echo delay, and convolution reverb for deep spatial control. System Requirements and Compatibility Specification Requirement Operating System Windows 7–11 (64-bit); macOS 10.15 or later Plugin Formats VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, Standalone CPU Intel i5 or higher; Apple Silicon native support (v3.5+) Disk Space 20 GB recommended (SSD preferred)
Whether you are a seasoned producer or a songwriter needing professional-grade guitar tracks, Ample Metal Eclipse remains a top-tier choice for achieving authentic high-gain tones without picking up a real instrument. AmpleMetal Eclipse Review and Demo (ESP Eclipse I VST)
Introduction
Ample Sound's Ample Metal Eclipse is a popular virtual instrument plugin designed to emulate the sound of electric guitars, specifically metal and hard rock styles. The latest version, v3.1.0, promises to deliver even more authentic and versatile tones for metalheads and producers alike. In this review, we'll dive into the features, sound quality, and overall performance of Ample Metal Eclipse on both Windows and macOS platforms.
Features and Installation
The Ample Metal Eclipse plugin is available in VST, AU, and AAX formats, making it compatible with most digital audio workstations (DAWs). Installation was straightforward on both Windows 10 and macOS Catalina, with the plugin recognizing the Ample Sound account and authorizing without issues.
The plugin itself offers a vast library of high-quality samples, with over 6 GB of data, covering various metal guitar tones, from chunky rhythms to screaming leads. The user interface is intuitive and well-organized, with easy access to essential parameters such as volume, tone, and effects.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of Ample Metal Eclipse is exceptional, with detailed and responsive articulations that accurately capture the dynamics and expression of a real electric guitar. The plugin's sound engine utilizes advanced scripting technology to simulate the behavior of the guitar's pickups, amp, and cabinet, resulting in a convincingly authentic tone.
We found the plugin to be capable of producing a wide range of metal sub-genres, from classic heavy metal to modern djent and progressive metal. The guitar tones are robust and punchy, with an excellent attack and sustain that makes them perfect for both rhythm playing and lead lines.
Effects and Customization
Ample Metal Eclipse includes an impressive array of built-in effects, such as a versatile amp simulator, convolution reverb, and a host of stompboxes (distortion, overdrive, delay, etc.). These effects are highly customizable, allowing users to craft their ideal tone with ease.
The plugin also features an extensive library of presets, which serve as a great starting point for exploring the plugin's capabilities. Users can browse through various categories, such as rhythm, lead, and acoustic, to find the perfect tone for their project.
Performance and Compatibility
In our testing, Ample Metal Eclipse performed flawlessly on both Windows 10 and macOS Catalina, with minimal CPU usage and no noticeable latency. The plugin was also stable and didn't crash during our testing sessions.
Conclusion
Ample Sound's Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 is an exceptional virtual instrument plugin that delivers authentic and versatile metal guitar tones. With its advanced scripting technology, extensive sample library, and intuitive interface, this plugin is a must-have for metal producers, guitarists, and composers.
The plugin's compatibility with both Windows and macOS platforms makes it a great addition to any DAW-based workflow. Overall, we highly recommend Ample Metal Eclipse to anyone seeking high-quality metal guitar tones for their music productions.
Rating: 4.5/5
System Requirements:
Pros:
Cons:
Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse (AME) v3.1.0 is a premier virtual electric guitar designed for modern heavy music, meticulously sampled from the ESP Eclipse I
. This version brings substantial engine improvements for both Windows and Mac users, emphasizing playability and realistic metal performance Core Technical Features Deep Sampling: Features a 3.5GB to 4.6GB library where every fret was recorded from the bridge pickup Articulations:
Includes 10 specific playing styles: Sustain, Palm Mute, Natural/Pinch Harmonic, Hammer On & Pull Off, Legato Slide, Slide In/Out, Pop, and Tap Drop Tuning Support: Optimized for contemporary heavy music with a default C G C F A D tuning, capable of reaching as low as Cycle+ Mode: Enhances repetitive fast passages by allowing up to 24 sample cycles
, effectively eliminating the "machine gun effect" common in virtual instruments Advanced Playing Engines A powerful sequencer that supports MIDI import/export
, a technique editor, and a dedicated string visualization system for complex riff creation
Specifically rebuilt for heavy music, this engine includes chord recognition and a rhythm library where you can drag and drop MIDI patterns directly into your DAW Tab Player: Native support for Guitar Pro
files (up to GP8), allowing the plugin to accurately interpret fingering, articulations, and performance data from standard tabs Sound Shaping & Effects Amp Simulation: The version 3 update includes a full amplifier section with seven amp models , eight speaker cabinets, and eight microphone options Contains essential processing tools including an , compressor, delay, and convolution reverb with various impulse responses Automatic Velocity Switching:
Intelligently switches between Sustain, Palm Mute, and Artificial Harmonics based on note velocity, reducing the need for manual keyswitches System Requirements Compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10 (64-bit) Requires version 10.9 or higher
Available as VSTi, VSTi3, AAX, AU, and a standalone application import custom Guitar Pro tabs Review: Ample Sound Metal Series by Ample Sound
The FX page offers EQ, Compression, reverb with tons of included impulse responses, and echo/delay. covers the basics very well. Sample Library Review Review: Ample Sound Metal Series by Ample Sound
Ample Metal Eclipse (AME) is a virtual electric guitar instrument by Ample Sound modeled after the ESP Eclipse I
. Version 3.1.0, released in late 2020, significantly updated the engine to improve performance and compatibility across amplesound.net Core Sound Library Source Instrument
: Based on high-quality bridge pickup samples of an ESP Eclipse I. Sample Quality While metal is often associated with single-note riffs,
: High-gain metal library with 3.5 GB to 4.6 GB of 24-bit 44.1 kHz samples. : Default drop tuning is C G C F A D
, widely used in modern metalcore and djent, though it supports regular tuning as well. amplesound.net Performance Features 10 Articulations
: Includes Sustain, Palm Mute, Natural Harmonic, Hammer On & Pull Off, Legato Slide, Slide In/Out, Pop, Pinch Harmonic, and Tap. Polyphonic Legato
: Features a "Slide Smoother" for realistic legato across any interval or speed.
: Increases sample cycles up to 24 to eliminate the "machine gun effect" during fast, repetitive metal riffing. Automation : Supports CPC (Customized Parameters Control) , allowing any knob or button to be controlled via MIDI CC. amplesound.net Integrated Tools
: A MIDI editor featuring both Piano Roll and Guitar Tab views, allowing for intuitive programming of complex techniques like fingerings and articulations.
: Provides 14 strum notes and 28 ways to play every chord, with a sequencer and rhythm library specifically designed for heavy music. Tab Reader 4
: Directly imports Guitar Pro files (up to GP8) with full preservation of articulations and performance data. AMP & FX System
: Includes 7 classic metal amp heads, 8 cabinets with multiple microphone options, and built-in effects like EQ, Compression, and Convolution Reverb. amplesound.net System Requirements : Windows 7 to Windows 11 (64-bit only). : macOS 10.15 or later. : VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, and standalone versions.
: Intel i5 or higher CPU, at least 2 GB RAM, and over 10 GB of disk space (SSD recommended). amplesound.net programming tips for this specific plugin? amplesound.net
To "develop a proper paper" (typically meaning a technical data sheet or product overview) for Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse (AME) v3.1.0, you should focus on its role as a virtual instrument modeled after the ESP Eclipse I guitar, designed specifically for heavy metal and hard rock production. Product Overview
Ample Metal Eclipse is a professional virtual electric guitar plugin that utilizes a high-quality sample library of the bridge pickup of an ESP Eclipse I. Version 3.1.0 belongs to the Series III engine, featuring advanced performance modeling and a comprehensive internal effects rack. Key Specifications
Sample Library: Approximately 4.6 GB of high-definition samples.
Default Tuning: C G C F A D (Drop C), with support for drop tuning down to C1.
Supported Formats: 64-bit Standalone, VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX. Compatibility: Windows: Windows 7, 8, or 10 (64-bit only). Mac: OSX 10.9 or higher. Core Features & Articulations
The plugin includes 10 essential articulations for realistic metal performance: Sustain, Palm Mute, and Natural/Artificial Harmonics. Hammer-On & Pull-Off, Legato Slide, Slide In & Out. Pop, Pinch Harmonic, and Tap.
Cycle Plus: A feature that eliminates the "machine gun effect" by triggering up to three times more samples during fast, repeated note passages. Advanced Performance Tools
Riffer: An integrated MIDI editor that allows for the creation and customization of metal-oriented riffs with drag-and-drop export to DAWs.
Strummer: Optimized for heavy music, focusing on power chords and customizable strumming patterns.
Tab Reader: Capable of loading Guitar Pro formats (up to GP8) and playing them back with accurate articulation and fingering.
FX Rack: Includes an 8-band EQ, compressor, 6-tap echo/delay, and convolution reverb. System Requirements CPU: Intel i5 or higher. RAM: Minimum 2 GB. Storage: 10 GB of free hard drive space (SSD recommended). Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 VSTi/VSTi3/AAX/AU [WIN ... - VK
Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 - WiN - OSX
Overview
Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse is a virtual guitar instrument plugin that simulates the sound of an electric guitar. The plugin is designed to provide a wide range of tonal possibilities, from crisp and clean to heavy and distorted.
Key Features
System Requirements
What's New in v3.1.0
Platforms
Conclusion
Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 is a versatile and powerful virtual guitar instrument plugin that offers a wide range of tonal possibilities and customization options. With its realistic sound, multiple playing styles, and built-in effects, it's an ideal choice for music producers, guitarists, and composers looking to create authentic guitar parts.
Ample Metal Eclipse (AME) v3.1.0 is a virtual instrument designed to bring the aggressive and versatile sound of the ESP Eclipse I guitar
into digital music production. Released as part of Ample Sound's version 3 series, it features a revamped engine that offers high realism for metal and rock genres. Key Features & Capabilities Realistic Articulations:
Includes Sustain, Palm Mute, Artificial Harmonic, Hammer-On, Pull-Off, Legato Slide, and Slide In/Out. Strummer & Riffer:
Features a specialized strumming engine and a built-in Riffer with a library of metal patterns that can be customized or exported directly to your DAW. High-End Amp Simulation: Comes with 7 classic amp heads (including Metal Double and Lead 800) and 8 guitar cabinets , each captured with 8 different microphones. Metal-Specific Features: Stroke Noise:
Adds a metallic harmonic attack during strumming for a more authentic feel. Drop Tuning: Supports tuning down to C G C F A D , standard for contemporary heavy music. Cycle Plus: Article by [Your Name] – Metal producer & sound designer
Triple samples triggered during fast repeated notes to eliminate the "machine gun" effect. Technical Specifications (v3.1.0) AmpleMetal Eclipse Review and Demo (ESP Eclipse I VST)
Here’s a balanced, professional-style review for Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 (Windows/macOS):
Review: Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 – A New Benchmark for Virtual Metal Guitar
If you produce metal, rock, or any genre requiring realistic electric guitar, Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 is a game-changer. This update continues Ample Sound’s reputation for detailed sampling and playability.
Sound Quality – 5/5
Based on a high-end ESP Eclipse guitar with Seymour Duncan pickups (JB/'59 set), the tone is thick, punchy, and versatile. From tight palm-muted chugs to soaring lead sustains, the dynamic range is exceptional. The multi-channel DI signal (neck, bridge, and both pickups) plus built-in amp/cab simulators (featuring models based on Mesa, Marshall, etc.) let you shape tones directly in the plugin.
Playability & Features – 4.8/5
The new Riffer 3.0 engine is powerful—string roll, fretboard visualization, and advanced strumming patterns. The Strummer now has more realistic down/up stroke control, and the Articulation system (legato, slide, hammer-on, ghost notes) responds intelligently to MIDI velocity and keyswitches. The Double Tracking feature makes rhythm guitars sound massive with one take.
Performance & Stability – 4.5/5
v3.1.0 runs smoothly in major DAWs (Cubase, Logic, Reaper, FL Studio) on both Windows and macOS (Intel/Apple Silicon). CPU usage is moderate—a single instance is fine, but several with amp sims may require freezing tracks. No major bugs reported.
Who Is It For?
Limitations
Verdict
Ample Metal Eclipse v3.1.0 is a top-tier virtual instrument. While not a perfect replacement for a skilled guitarist with high-end gear, it’s the next best thing. For home studio producers, it’s an essential tool.
Rating: 9/10
Highly recommended for modern metal production.
Ample Metal Eclipse (AME) is a virtual electric guitar instrument designed specifically for heavy music, meticulously sampled from the ESP Eclipse I. Version 3.1.0 provides a robust 64-bit engine for both Windows and macOS, delivering the aggressive, high-gain tones required for Metal, Metalcore, and Djent. Key Features & Capabilities
Authentic Sampling: Features a 3.5GB–4.6GB library recorded from the bridge pickup, including 10 essential articulations such as Sustain, Palm Mute, Artificial Harmonics, and Legato Slides. Heavy Performance Modes: Drop Tuning: Supports tunings down to , ideal for contemporary low-tuned heavy music.
Power Chord Mode: Automatically triggers the root and fifth simultaneously for massive rhythm tracks.
Stroke Noise: Adds a subtle metallic harmonic attack to strums and solos for enhanced realism.
Riffer 4 & Strummer: An integrated MIDI editor and sequencer tailored for plucked instruments. It includes a vast library of metal riffs and a specialized "Strum Note" system for intuitive chord editing.
Built-in Amp & FX: Includes a suite of 7 classic amp models (like Metal Double and Lead 800) and 8 cabinets, plus essential effects like an 8-band EQ, compressor, and convolution reverb.
Tab Reader 4: Seamlessly loads Guitar Pro files (GP3 to GP8), accurately reproducing complex fingerings and articulations directly within the plugin. System Requirements (v3.1.0) Windows: Windows 7/8/10 (64-bit). Mac: macOS 10.9 or higher. Formats: VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, and Standalone host.
Hardware: Minimum 2 GB RAM and at least 10 GB of disk space (SSD recommended).
For the latest updates and to explore the full manual, you can visit the official Ample Sound Ample Metal Eclipse page. AmpleMetal Eclipse Review and Demo (ESP Eclipse I VST)
Ample Metal Eclipse (AME) is a virtual electric guitar plugin from Ample Sound that meticulously recreates the sound of an ESP Eclipse I. Version 3.1.0 (and subsequent v3.x updates) operates on the updated Ample Guitar 3 (AG3) engine, which introduces enhanced performance features, improved legato, and more realistic articulations tailored for heavy metal and high-gain genres. Key Features of Ample Metal Eclipse v3
ESP Eclipse I Sound Library: A bridge pickup library delivering aggressive tones ideal for Metalcore, Progressive Metal, and Djent.
Riffer 4 MIDI Editor: An intuitive editor with Tab and Piano Roll views for programming complex riffs, including a large library of metal presets that can be dragged and dropped into your DAW.
Strummer Mode: Optimized for heavy music, this mode defaults to power chords and allows for fully customizable strumming rhythms.
Polyphonic Legato & Slides: Supports smooth transitions between notes and chords, with authentic left-hand performance noises and realistic "stroke noise" that adds a metallic harmonic attack.
Cycle+ Technology: Triples the number of sample cycles to eliminate the "machine gun effect" during fast, repeated note passages.
Tab Reader 4: Built-in support for importing Guitar Pro files (GP3 through GP8), preserving all original fingering and articulations. Technical Specifications
Sampling: 3.5 GB of 24-bit/44.1kHz samples, covering every fret from 0 to 22 on each string.
Tuning: Defaulted to "Drop C" (C G C F A D) for contemporary heavy music. System Compatibility: Windows: VST2, VST3, AAX Native, and Standalone (64-bit).
OSX: AU, VST2, VST3, AAX Native (64-bit), with native support for Apple M1 chips starting in v3.6.
Articulations: 10 primary articulations including Sustain, Palm Mute, Natural Harmonic, Pinch Harmonic, Hammer On/Pull Off, and Legato Slide. AmpleMetal Eclipse Review and Demo (ESP Eclipse I VST)
In the rapidly evolving world of virtual instruments, few domains are as technically demanding as high-gain guitar simulation. For years, producers and composers sought the chug, the crunch, and the searing sustain of a high-end metal guitar, only to be met with "sample libraries" that felt like cardboard cutouts of the real thing.
Then came Ample Sound. With their reputation for meticulous sampling and scripting established via their acoustic and bass lines, they turned their sights toward the heavy spectrum. Ample Metal Eclipse represents the vanguard of this shift. Now sitting at version v3.1.0, available for both Windows and macOS, this instrument has matured into a powerhouse that blurs the line between sampling and performance.
This feature takes a deep dive into what makes Eclipse v3.1.0 an essential tool for modern production, exploring the instrument it models, the technology driving it, and why the latest update matters for your mix.