Choose an effects order

By Landon McCoy · Updated September 10, 2026

The virtual signal chain runs from left to right. Start with a simple chain, then change one position at a time and listen.

Applies to: Stratus and Nimbus.

A useful starting point

Guitar → drive → amp model → cabinet IR → modulation → delay → reverb.

This is a starting point, not a rule. Compression, pitch effects, EQ, and modulation can work in different positions depending on the sound.

A starting point for your signal chain. Drive → amp: Shape gain and amp character. Cabinet IR: Add the speaker/mic response if needed. Modulation + space: Try modulation, delay, then reverb. Signal runs left to right. Experiment; a full-rig capture may already include a cab.
Signal runs left to right. Experiment; a full-rig capture may already include a cab. Open image at full size.

Amp models and cabinets

A NAM capture may include only an amp, or an amp and cabinet together. Read its notes before adding an IR. If you feed a real guitar amp and cabinet, another cabinet simulation may be unnecessary.

Compare at similar volume

Bypass the effect you moved and adjust output levels so louder does not automatically sound better. Save a second preset before experimenting with a sound you need to keep.

Check headroom

Every active chain must fit the hardware’s processing budget. See CPU usage.

Still need a hand?

Email support@chaosaudio.com. We’re here to help.

Related articles

How many effects can I run? Understanding CPUThe number of simultaneous effects depends on their processing cost. Use the app’s CPU indicator and overload messages instead of a fixed effect count.Use NAM amp and pedal modelsNAM models reproduce a captured amp or pedal response. Stratus and Nimbus share the same native NAM playback features.Use cabinet impulse responses (IRs)A cabinet IR adds the frequency and time response of a captured speaker-and-microphone setup. Use it after an amp model for a typical direct guitar chain.Upload your own NAM models and IR filesUse USE MY OWN to add compatible NAM models or WAV impulse responses to your private Chaos Audio library.Connect TONE3000 and find compatible capturesTONE3000 lets you browse community NAM captures and IRs from the Chaos Audio app. Choose compatible files and read the creator’s notes.