Introduction

AethisDSP has released Aethis 1.1.0, a comprehensive guitar amp simulator that combines neural amp modeling with a polyphonic harmonizer and a full suite of effects. This is the first paid version after a free public beta.

Core Features

Aethis is designed as an all-in-one plugin. It includes three amp models based on real tube amplifiers: Noctis for high gain, Ember for rock, and Lumina for clean tones. Each amp has two channels and power-amp saturation. The plugin also features a nine-band parametric EQ that can be placed pre or post amp, a cabinet section with two speakers and six microphones, and support for custom impulse responses.

Beyond the amp, Aethis offers four pre-FX pedals (boost, noise gate, multiband compressor, TS808-style overdrive) and three post-FX (chorus, delay with three engines, reverb). The delay can sync to your DAW tempo. A special effects section includes bitcrush, a 12-stage phaser, and flanger.

Polyphonic Harmonizer

The standout feature is the polyphonic harmonizer. Unlike typical guitar harmonizers that track single notes, Aethis shifts the audio itself, so chords remain chords. You can add up to four voices with intervals, key locking, MIDI control, and formant preservation. Each voice has independent volume, pan, fine tuning, and delay.

Additional features include a built-in tuner with reference pitch adjustment, and a free pack of 55 presets covering clean, rock, pop, metal, fuzz, and harmony styles.

Platform and Pricing

Aethis runs as AU, VST3, or standalone on macOS (Apple Silicon and Intel) and Windows 10+. A Linux beta (x86_64) is available but requires a Vulkan driver. The Windows build is not code-signed, so SmartScreen will show a warning on first run. The plugin supports latency compensation.

The price is $34.99 for a perpetual license with no subscriptions. A 14-day free trial is available. KVR readers can use the code PROMO20 for 20% off. A free account at account.aethisdsp.com is required for downloads.

Pros and Cons

• Neural amp models for realistic tone
• Polyphonic harmonizer handles chords
• One-time price with free trial

• Windows build not code-signed (SmartScreen warning)
• Linux beta requires Vulkan and is x86_64 only

Conclusion

Aethis 1.1.0 offers a deep feature set at a reasonable price. While the Windows signing issue and Linux limitations may deter some, the core functionality and harmonizer make it a strong contender for guitarists seeking an all-in-one solution.

More info: AethisDSP | Aethis