NAM (Neural Amp Modeler) brings studio-quality amp captures to Stratus and Nimbus. These AI-trained models recreate the exact sound of real amplifiers — from clean Fender tones to high-gain Mesa stacks.
What is NAM?
NAM A2-Lite (Neural Amp Modeler Architecture 2) is an open-source technology that uses machine learning to capture the exact behavior of real amplifiers.
In blind listening tests, NAM A2 has proven more accurate than ToneX, Line 6 Helix, and Quad Cortex at recreating the original amp sound.
Key benefits:
- 🎯 Studio-accurate amp tones in a pedal
- 🆓 300,000+ free captures via TONE3000 partnership
- 🔓 Open source — no proprietary lock-in
- 🎛️ 5 adjustable controls for tone shaping
How to Add a NAM Amp Model
- Go to the Pedalboard tab
- Tap "Add Effect"
- Browse to NAM AMP MODELS category
- Select a model you like
- Tap "Get" to add to your library
- While connected to Stratus, tap "Install"
Important: NAM models must be installed to Stratus over Bluetooth before they'll produce sound.
TONE3000 Integration
Chaos Audio has partnered with TONE3000 to give you access to over 300,000 free NAM captures created by the community.
To access TONE3000 models:
- Create a free account at tone3000.com
- In the Chaos Audio app, go to NAM AMP MODELS
- Sign in with your TONE3000 account when prompted
- Browse the full library of captures!
Models you download from TONE3000 are saved to your Chaos Audio account and sync across devices.
NAM Controls
Each NAM model has 5 adjustable parameters:
| Control | Function |
|---|---|
| Input | Adjust input gain/drive amount |
| Bass | Low frequency EQ |
| Mid | Midrange frequency EQ |
| Treble | High frequency EQ |
| Output | Master volume level |
These controls let you shape the tone without needing the original amp's exact settings.
Multi-Model Packs
Some NAM packs from TONE3000 contain multiple amp models (e.g., different gain stages, channels, or mic positions).
When you load a multi-model pack, you'll see a dropdown selector to choose which model to use. This lets you quickly A/B different captures without leaving the effect.
CPU Usage
NAM Amp Models use approximately 52.5% of Stratus's CPU.
This means you can run:
- NAM + IR + simple effect (like delay) = ~82% CPU ✓
- NAM + IR alone = ~72% CPU ✓
- NAM + multiple complex effects = may exceed limit ⚠️
Tip: If you're using a NAM model, pair it with an Impulse Response (~19.4% CPU) for a complete "amp + cab" sound, leaving room for one or two additional effects.
Example Use Cases
Direct to PA/Interface: NAM Model → IR → Output (Complete amp + cab simulation, ~72% CPU)
Into a Clean Amp: NAM Model → Your Amp's Clean Channel (Use NAM for preamp character, skip the IR)
Pedal Platform: Overdrive → NAM Model → IR (Stack your favorite drive pedal in front)
Troubleshooting
No sound from NAM model? → Make sure you've tapped "Install" while connected to Stratus
Model sounds different than expected? → Adjust the Input and Output controls — NAM models are sensitive to gain staging
Running out of CPU? → NAM models are CPU-intensive (~52.5%). Remove other effects or use simpler reverbs/delays
Need Help?
If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com