Say Hello to Guitar and Bass, iPad

Every day the iPad can be something different - a fun way to play games one day and an easier way to read books the next. Now, it's music's turn with AmpliTube for iPad. Amplitude is a virtual amp and effects processor for your guitar or bass, allowing you to plug in your instrument via the iPad's 3.5mm jack connection with some specially designed kit made by IK Multimedia. The application is available now for $19.99. There is a free version available, with a limited number of effects, but you can buy and download effects on-the-go.

AmpliTube provides the same twenty-three effects as the iPhone edition, which was released last month also at $19.99. Such effects include five amp models, eleven stompbox effects, five cabinets and two mics. For a full break down, see the bottom of this post. The iPad's extra power means that it can handle four simultaneous stompbox effects, rather than three on the iPhone. In addition, a built-in tuner and metronome are provided, as well as the ability to import songs and backing tracks.

The specially designed kit that I mentioned earlier, namely IK Multimedia's iRig, costs $39.99 (€29.99) but doesn't include the premium version of AmpliTube. You plug your guitar into iRig, which then connects to your iPad. It offers a 3.5mm line-out for headphones and speakers. You can buy it here.

Hit the jump for more details and video.

The iPad demo isn't available on YouTube yet, but you can watch it on IK Multimedia's website. For now, here's the iPhone edition:

IK Multimedia isn't the first to the iPad block. Last month, Ben Harvell highlighted AmpKit, created by AgilePartners in collaboration with amp giant Peavey. AmpKit is still only available for pre-order, and will cost £39.99.

Note: AmpliTube is not universal, meaning if you've bought the iPhone edition you won't be able to make full-use of the premium iPad edition.

Five amp models: clean, crunch, lead, metal and bass. Eleven stompbox effects: delay, flanger, phaser, overdrive, distortion, filter, wah, fuzz, octaver, chorus and noise filter. Five cabinets: 1x12", 2x12", 4x12", A & B, 1x15". Two mics: dynamic and condensor. All rigs can be organized on-the-go with 36 available presets.

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