On the DVD, you’ll find the RealStrat installer, a demo version of Real Guitar and Amplitube 2 Duo, an OEM version of the IK Multimedia amp simulation program, offering 2 amps, 2 preamps and EQ, 2 cabinets, 2 stomp boxes (Wah and overdrive) and other refinements, usable as a plug-in or in standalone mode; in short everything to fine tune the RealStrat sound. Installation is an easy process (if you’re using Leopard, you’ll have to download a patch). At the end of the installation, you will be prompted to set the Bank Manager, which installs the library according to the specified sample rate(s). You can use RealStrat in demo mode for one month, after which you’ll have to register. The editor will send a special file by e-mail (rlst.key) which unlocks the software. You’ll also find the serial for Amplitube Duo in the e-mail.

The software has three windows, the first being the instrument itself, the second gives access to the pattern library (PM button), the last is dedicated to the Keyswitch settings (KS button). Functions are accessible through pull-down menus or pop-up windows. The instrument window is divided into two parts: above, the guitar neck are the various parameters and sub-windows. Underneath, you’ll find MIDI parameters, access to the patterns and KeySwitches and other options.

You’ll start by setting your audio and MIDI interfaces. Then, in the upper left side, Output will let you set the output level and apply an EQ (Low and High). Though volume adjustment can be useful, you’d be better off not touching the EQ... The Tune window allows you to set the instrument tuning and Modulation (with optional Sync). Setup give access to several parameters, the most important being Chord Detect Time. It’s up to you to make your own settings, according to your playing technique (in particular the way you play chords sequences). On the right, there’s the Mixer and the respective volumes for the noises and sounds that add to the instrument’s realism (fret noises, release, pick, mutes, etc.). It’s the same with the FX Mixer, handling muting, harmonics, etc.

RealStrat also includes a well designed Wah-Wah. It offers 4 control modes, via MIDI CC, in Auto mode (positive or negative) or via modulation, with settings for frequency, MIDI CC number, filter slope, modulation etc. If you play it with the Mod Wheel or even better with an expression pedal, it works fine...

Below are settings for strumming speed, attack and release. In the center, in addition to info on chords and parameter values, are two buttons: Hold (the chord is held even if you’ve released the keys) and Auto (which activates the virtual capo). Finally, on the left you’ll find settings for Accent (adjusting the various velocity thresholds) and Alter which defines the number of samples used for repeated notes, thus avoiding the machine-gun effect.