On May 18, 2026, Acustica Audio will release AREO 2, a comprehensive guitar amplifier emulation software that combines the entire signal path of a classic amplifier setup into a single plugin.
The original version of AERO was released in June 2022. This first version was a plugin suite featuring two free players: Aero Stomp (for pedals and tone stacks) and Aero Amp (for amplifiers and cabinets), and was based on Acustica’s new AI-powered Terra technology. The base version was free, with additional paid volumes (A, B, C) that included further emulations.
AERO 2 represents a significant advancement over the original AERO and is described as a “complete amplifier environment.” The software is aimed not only at guitarists but also at bassists, producers, and sound designers who want to create realistic and creative amplifier sounds directly within their DAW.
Key Features
AERO 2 offers an impressive collection of emulated devices:
- 251 total emulations, including:
- 53 pedal/stompbox models (overdrive, fuzz, boost, etc.)
- 76 amp heads
- 122 cabinet models
- 11 newly recorded models created specifically for AERO 2, including British and American 4x12 cabinets, boutique overdrives, and high-gain amps.
- Support for mono and stereo processing, ideal for guitars, synths, keyboards, and electronic instruments.
Signal Path and Processing Layers
The signal path follows a realistic sequence, just like in a physical setup:
Input → STOMP → HEAD → CAB → EQ → FX → Output
Each layer is available in Standard and Extended views, enabling quick sound design and in-depth editing:
- STOMP: Includes gate, compressor, and effects pedals for dynamics and tone shaping.
- HEAD: Amp emulations with a unified control set (Drive, Bass, Middle, Treble, etc.) for consistent workflow.
- CAB: Microphone positioning (X/Z control) for precise control over the cabinet sound.
- EQ: 9-band equalizer with high- and low-pass filters for mix optimization.
- FX: Modulation, delay, and reverb for spatial effects.
Technical Foundation: NOVA Instrument
AERO 2 is based on NOVA Instrument, an evolution of Acustica Audio’s NOVA architecture that has been specifically optimized for instrument amplification. This enables:
- Natural saturation, dynamics, and harmonic interaction throughout the entire signal chain.
- Realistic behavior at high gain, where each block affects the next.
- Low latency and optimized CPU utilization, essential for live tracking and complex projects.
Compatibility and Availability
- Formats: VST3, AAX, AU
- Sample Rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz
- Windows: 10 and 11
- macOS: Apple Silicon only (from Big Sur to Sonoma); Intel Macs are not supported
- Price: Introductory price of €85 (instead of €189), valid until June 15, 2026
- Upgrade: Owners of previous AERO products receive AERO 2 for free
Links
- AERO 2 by Acustica Audio
- Overview of all Guitar & Bass Plugins by Acustica Audio
- all News article from Acustica Audio by guitar-sims.com
- all Software of Acustics Audio by guitar-sims.com
Images
Image source: acustica-audio.com - Click to enlarge
Image source: acustica-audio.com - Click to enlarge
Image source: acustica-audio.com - Click to enlarge
Image source: acustica-audio.com - Click to enlarge