Welcome to the exciting realm of New Guitar Gear! Today, we’re diving deep into Genome, a revolutionary software ecosystem for guitar and bass players. If you’ve been searching for a way to streamline your sound and enhance your playing experience, this might just be the tool you need. With its robust features and user-friendly interface, Genome is here to change the way you think about guitar plugins.
Intro & Background
I’ve been a Two Notes user for about eight years now. If you’ve watched my channel, you’ve probably noticed the Capture X featured in countless videos. Recently, Two Notes invited me to explore their latest creation: Genome. Now, when I say ‘ecosystem,’ I mean a comprehensive software that manages your entire signal chain, including pedals, amps, cabinets, and studio effects. They’ve just released version 1.8, which introduces four new amps and four new effects.
You can try the full version of Genome free for fourteen days by downloading it through the link in the description. In this post, I’ll guide you on how to get started with Genome, highlight the new features in version 1.8, and share some presets that I’ve created for you to download.
Version 1.8 Updates
Version 1.8 brings significant enhancements to Genome. It introduces new amps and effects that allow for even more tonal versatility. The interface remains intuitive, enabling users to quickly navigate through the various features and options available. The new additions are designed to enhance your sound while keeping the workflow seamless.
One of the standout features is the ability to load Genome as a standalone app or as a plugin in your favorite DAW. I’ll be using Logic for this demonstration, but it’s compatible with most major DAWs, including GarageBand and Reaper.
Setting Up Genome
Setting up Genome is straightforward. First, plug your guitar into your audio interface—make sure to use the high-Z input for optimal sound quality. For this demo, I’m using the PreSonus Quantum HD eight. Once your guitar is connected, load Genome as a plugin in your chosen DAW.
When you launch Genome, you’ll see a three-dimensional representation of an amp and a clear signal chain layout. You can easily add elements to your signal chain by clicking the plus icon and selecting from various options. The presets are plentiful, with some amusing names that will surely bring a smile to your face.
Exploring Presets
Genome comes loaded with a wide array of presets that cater to different playing styles and sounds. Some presets have quirky names, like ‘Irony Man,’ which I’ll be using with an SG guitar. Each preset is customizable, allowing you to tweak settings to suit your preferences.
Let’s dive into a couple of my favorite presets. The first one I’m going to demonstrate is the ‘Big Fuzz Albion’ amp, reminiscent of the classic British Marshall sound. It’s big, fat, and thick—perfect for those heavy riffs.
Preset #1: Samhain Amp Build
For my first custom preset, I’m using the Samhain amp, which is based on a Sun Model T reissue. I’ll create a completely empty signal chain to start from scratch. First, I add the Samhain amp, followed by a Dyna IR cab loader. I prefer a 4×12 cabinet setup, and I’ll be using the Laney LA 4×12 HLC for this build.
Next, I’ll add a spring reverb to give the sound some depth. I’m switching to a Jupiter guitar from Valiant Guitars, equipped with bare-knuckle pickups, which should complement the amp nicely. After setting the noise gate, let’s hear what this sounds like!
Preset #2: Snakebite 50 (Soldano Style)
Next up is the Snakebite 50, modeled after the Soldano 50 amp. I’ll set it up with a standard Marshall 4×12 cabinet. This amp has dual channels—normal and overdrive—allowing for a wide range of tones. After adjusting some settings, let’s hear how it sounds!
Adding a bit of reverb to enhance the tone, I’m also considering adding a delay effect to create more depth. The result is a beefy sound that’s perfect for both clean and distorted tones.
Preset #3: Organ + Fuzz Split Patch
For the third preset, I’m going for an unusual combination: an organ paired with fuzz. I’ll split the signal chain to allow the organ to shine while still incorporating the fuzz effect. This is a fun way to create unique sounds that stand out in mixes.
The organ is set to dry, and I’m adding a fuzz effect to the other side of the split. After balancing the levels, let’s see how it all comes together.
Preset #4: Rampage High-Gain Baritone
For my final preset, I’m utilizing the Rampage amp, which is known for its high-gain capabilities. I’ll pair it with a 4×12 cabinet and some studio reverb to give it that spacious sound. Switching to a baritone guitar adds an extra layer of depth to this tone.
After some adjustments, I’m excited to hear how this one turns out! The Rampage is a beast and perfect for those heavy chugging riffs.
Loading Free NAM Captures (CodeX Module)
One of the coolest features in Genome is the ability to load NAM captures using the CodeX module. This allows you to access various free amp captures that enhance your sound without any additional cost. For instance, I’ve downloaded a Fender Super Reverb capture from tone3000.
Loading it into Genome is as simple as clicking open and selecting the file. You can mix and match these captures with the built-in effects and amps for a truly unique sound.
Pricing & Editions of Genome
Now let’s talk pricing. The Genome software is available for €59.99 for the basic version, which includes a solid selection of amps, pedals, and presets. If you want the full suite, it’s €149.99, which includes all future updates for free.
For those who already own Genome, there’s an upgrade option to the suite for €99.99. Given the extensive features and capabilities, it’s a worthwhile investment for any guitarist looking to elevate their sound.
In conclusion, Genome is an incredibly powerful tool for guitarists and bass players alike. Its user-friendly interface and expansive features make it a must-try for anyone serious about their tone. Don’t hesitate to download the 14-day trial and explore the possibilities for yourself!
Remember to check out the custom presets I’ve created, and let me know your thoughts in the comments below. Happy playing!