I’m recording my first album using real drums that I’m recording with two mics. I used to use drum programs like EZDrummer so it was fine to use just regular guitar plugins. Now that I’m using real drums recorded in a room, the guitars used with VSTs sound off and way more artificial now when compared to the real drums. I want something that I can record with the same mics I use on the drums to give it that “same room” sound. I’d like a budget amp, whether new or used, that’s great for recording old death metal with a mic. Budget is $300. Would spend a little over if needed, but just really would like something that will sound great when recorded and isn’t going to cost me a mortgage.
To get a real authentic heavy sound, you probably need something that can move some air. The cab may be more important that the amp in this case. I would see if one of those mini/lunchbox Rectifiers or Peaveys work for your style, and try to get one of those used along with either an oversized 1x12 cab, or a 4x12. The 4x12 cab is the only real way you’ll get that low-mid thump that you always hear on metalcore and death metal albums.
The tried and true match for that sound is 5150/6505 with a Mesa 4x12 … But even used, you aren’t going to get those in this budget.
One other recommendation… Depending on what guitar plugins you’ve tried, just getting better IRs could make a huge difference. If you aren’t using Neural DSP plugins, I would suggest trying some, or using GGD’s Studio cab packs.
Real amps are more fun IMO, but with such a low budget, better plugins may be a better bang for your buck.
100% agree. The other crucial aspect is that a good “room tone” doesn’t work in a mix. Guitars are double tracked and some people do a 70-100Hz low cut to give the bass and drums space. Not to mention blending mics at the cabs so you get a deeper sound. It just isn’t worth the hassle when a good audio interface/plugin will give you a much more usable track to work with.