Use NAM amp and pedal models

By Landon McCoy · Updated October 3, 2026

NAM models reproduce a captured amp or pedal response. Stratus and Nimbus share the same native NAM playback features.

Applies to: Stratus and Nimbus.

Choose a compatible model

Use the Chaos Audio app’s NAM picker to choose supported models. The latest documented engine uses A2-Lite playback. A file ending in .nam is not automatically compatible; older Standard, Lite, or other architectures are not interchangeable with the supported A2 model shape.

From a capture to your sound. Choose a model: Use a supported NAM architecture. Install + adjust: Transfer it, then set input and output levels. Check the cabinet: Amp-only capture? Try a cabinet IR next. A .nam filename alone does not prove compatibility. Read the capture notes.
A .nam filename alone does not prove compatibility. Read the capture notes. Open image at full size.

Add a model

  1. Connect the hardware and open Pedalboard → Add Effect → NAM AMP MODELS.
  2. Choose a library item, browse TONE3000, or use your own compatible file.
  3. Install it to the connected device. If a pack contains several captures, use its model selector to choose one.
  4. Start at a low listening level. Adjust input and output while following the capture creator’s gain recommendations.

Do I need a cabinet IR?

Read the capture notes. An amp-only capture usually needs a cabinet stage for direct listening; a full-rig capture may already include one. See cabinet IRs.

Multiple NAM blocks

Preview: The latest app removes the one-model restriction, and optimized firmware has validated three A2-Lite blocks. Additional effects still need to fit the total CPU budget. Older releases can impose different limits.

If the model is rejected

Choose a compatible variant or re-export/retrain in the supported A2 format. Reinstalling an incompatible file will not change its architecture. See uploading your own files.

Choose a variant and turn it on

Tap the NAM card to open its controls and select a capture from the pack. Different captures can represent different amp channels, gain settings, cabinets, or microphones. Enable the card with its virtual footswitch or on/off control before comparing sounds; an installed model can still be bypassed.

The tutorial shows Input, Bass, Mid, Treble, and Output controls. Start with sensible input/output levels, then adjust the tone controls. A capture represents the gear settings used when it was recorded; selecting a different gain/channel capture is different from reproducing every physical knob on the original amplifier.

Native NAM versus a generated effect

Compatible NAM models play natively on the hardware. You do not need to convert a supported NAM into an AI effect first. FX Builder’s reference-based effect generation is a separate workflow.

Watch this task

From the Full Uncut Stratus Tutorial, recorded October 2, 2026. App screens and available controls can vary by version.

NAM Input, Bass, Mid, Treble, Output, and enable switch, from the October 2026 Stratus tutorial.
NAM Input, Bass, Mid, Treble, Output, and enable switch. Watch this screen (20:12) · Open screenshot at full size.
Still need a hand?

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

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