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I really don't believe it.

The fact of the matter...is that I hear a difference, every single time.

There's no substitute for pure analog. In fact, I wouldn't ever enter the studio with "virtual" amplification.

Ever.

Where the cost benefit analysis improves with the use of digital...is on the stage. If you are going to take advantage of the entire palette of sounds available to guitar in the band, then you're going to want something like this product.

In fact...comparing this product to a boutique amp would be the difference between night and day. As much as I respect Anderton, technically of course, it weren't his words in the review. He said, pay attention to the modeling algorithm complexity. This doesn't give anyone else enough latitude to compare known and proven amplification methods like Vox, Fender, or Marshall. In a way, it's disingenious.

I use my Vox Tonelab directly into a consumer soundcard, then out to a home stereo. I've researched the specs and generally understand my limitations here. I use a home stereo graphic equalizer, just to lower the Tonelab's output signal where necessary for instance. It will and DOES create digital distortion, unless the more powerful lower frequencies get cut. Even with a Boss FBM-1 digital emulation pedal (plus optical compressor) going into the Tonelab set to 'boutique clean' (modeled on a Fender) with a '4x10 speaker" cab' (modeled on a Bassman)...

There's no comparison to an amp's tube power section. None.

The studio's microphones are the only way to add depth and 'organic feeling' to the music. What gets played on the stage is intuitive to the 'live' entertainment value, so it makes sense economically.

Nobody wants to take their most expensive gear to an unsafe location on the road, or worse...let strangers with questionable backgrounds, handle it on tour.

I for one, think the Vox Tonelab is fantastic for practicing. Really, that's where 'emulation' excels. It's a good "mock-up", so to speak. You can teach or learn a lot about the real thing, using this type of gear...but there's no digital substitute. There never will be.

Heres one person's take...

http://users.chariot.net.au/~gmarts/ampemul.htm