When you think of black metal, you probably picture the Neural DSP Archetype: Gojira X or the Fortin Nameless Suite X... or even the Omega Granophyre.
But I'd like to pay your attention to the Archetype: Plini X plugin by Neural DSP.
Yep, it doesn't scream "black metal amp" from it's design and that's probably why it gets overlooked.
But in my experience, it's very versatile and one of the more powerful amp simulators for black metal, post-black metal, and symphonic black metal... hell, it even does "old school" black metal very well!
To prove my point, I created two killer preset packs for Plini X aimed directly at those styles, and here I'd like to show you why this plugin works so well and how to leverage it.
Why Did I Start Using Plini X?
I just said that the Plini X gets overlooked, so how did I have the idea to buy it and try it?
Well, I already had a few of the Neural DSP plugins and wanted something fresh. In particular, I was curious about Plini's clean, crunch, and lead tone possibilities, but was surprised by the way it handled high-gain.
Somewhat slinky, haunting, and atmospheric textures were very easy to create... so I couldn't help but start developing black metal rhythm guitar tones.
Because of that, I realized Plini X's versatility and I built two custom preset packs: one focused on that "old school" raw, black metal vibe, and another with for symphonic black metal atmosphere and post-black dynamics.
Not to toot my own horn, but they sound amazing in a mix.
What Does Neural DSP Archetype: Plini X Offer?
Clearly, Plini X is the signature model for guitarist Plini Roessler-Holgate... or just "Plini." Obviously, not a black metal musician at all.
But what is included in this signature model is generally what you'd want to have for black metal:
- Multiple amp models (clean/crunch/lead)
- Multiple pedals (compressor, octaver, drive, delay)
- Effects pedals (chorus, delay, reverb)
While it's marketed towards "progressive/lead" guitarists, it can deliver relatively tight rhythm tones and textured ambient tones when dialled in properly.
Personally, Plini X is a favourite of mine when I want to do tremolo-style melodic leads with reverb and delay.
Why It's Ideal for Black, Post-Black & Symphonic Black Metal
Once you get over the branding, you'll see all the advantages. The main advantage being that not a lot of musicians will use Plini X, which means you'll sound more unique.
And because Plini X has an emphasis on clean, crunch, and more "clear" lead tones, tremolo-picked black metal riffs and layered rhythm guitar tracks will retain a lot of note clarity, which means you have defined, black metal riffs.
Additionally, again, because Plini X has amps for clean and crunch sounds, it's extremely easy to use only Plini X for your tone crafting needs.
This means you can purchase Neural DSP Archetype: Plini X and craft an assortment of atmospheric cleans, crunchy leads, and tight hi-gain rhythm sounds without needing to buy anything else.
I take full advantage of this with my Neural DSP Plini presets.
Old School Black Metal is inspired by the greats of old, taking into account that "tr00 kvlt" black metal sound, but still dialing them in to be useful and usable in the modern era.
Atmospheric Black Metal Vol 1 is crafted specifically for those looking to write epic, atmospheric black metal like Saor, Alcest, Agalloch, etc. You'll be surprised hear how well these tones work and, once again, proves Plini X's versatility as a metal amp sim.
Quick Comparison: Plini X vs Nolly X
This question does come up a lot, so much so that other reviewers bring up this topic. I thought I'd quickly note how Plini X is different from Nolly X as well.
Keep in mind that when I say "different," I am not saying "better."
Archetype: Nolly X definitely excels in rhythm guitar versatility, with more amps and cabinets to choose from, not to mention the ability to mix and match them for even more different sounds.
It's not hard at all to create black metal tones with the included Marshall and Peavey amps with Nolly X.
Plini X leans way more into clarity, expressiveness, leads, and ambient potential. However, it can deliver plenty of black metal when dialled in well.
If you prioritize pure rhythm heaviness in the modern sense, then Nolly X might be what you're looking for, but it's hard to argue against Plini X's versatility not only with rhythms, but leads in particular.
In short, Nolly X and Plini X are different enough where I don't feel comfortable saying one is "better" than the other. They are different and it's best to try out the demo version of each to see which one better suits you.
Archetype: Plini X Presets
I've mentioned them already above, but if you have Plini X and are looking for purposefully designed black metal, post-black metal, symphonic black metal, or "tr00 kvlt" black metal guitar sounds, then my presets are what you need.
- Old School Black Metal
- Atmospheric Black Metal Vol 1
Final Word
As home metal guitarists, it's a hell of a world to live in. There are a lot of options, so let me put it like this:
Neural DSP Archetype: Plini X is versatile, and covers a lot of ground with it's clean, crunch, and lead amp options.
There is no lack of tonal polish here, and if you can get around it being "not a metal plugin", then you'll be surprised at what it can do and you'll stand out from the crowd of everybody else using a Peavey 5150.
Think of it as a black-metal tone engine instead of as a progressive lead amp sim and you'll hear a big difference.