IK Multimedia has announced that its AmpliTube X-GEAR software is now a free for owners of AmpliTube 2 Live or the StealthPlug. The StealthPlug is guitar-to-USB cable, and costs $130; Live is available either bundled with the Plug or solo, but when used with X-GEAR supplies Tuner, Stomp, Amp, Cabinet and Rack effects, including extra Amp and Cabinet modules. Controls such as Ambience are added to Cabinets, and increased automation is possible.

X-GEAR also lets musicians pair Live with other IK apps including Ampeg SVX and AmpliTube Metal, or create custom amps using separate Pre, EQ and Power sections. AmpliTube Live costs $100, and requires Mac OS X 10.4 or better; AU, VST and RTAS plug-ins are supported. To download X-GEAR, people must visit IK's user area.