DSM Humboldt Simplifier Review

In 2019, the guitar effects and pedals universe changed forever with the release of the DSM & Humboldt Simplifier (Amp and Cab Sim Pedal). This game-changer took 9 months to build and emulates the subtle and complex sound characteristics of both an amplifier and a cabinet. It offers guitarists a compact and versatile solution for studio recordings and live performances. In this post, we’ll delve into the inner workings of this pedal and uncover the magic behind its design.

How I Found the DSM Humboldt Simplifier

I came into possession of the DSM & Humboldt Simplifier through a gear trade. At the time, I was on the hunt for one special pedal that would do all of the following things very well:

• Allow me to play silent stages, i.e. go amp-less.
• Be a fantastic pedal platform.
• Be lightweight, occupy minimal pedalboard real estate, and run on a standard 9v plug.
• Be affordable.
• Offer routing flexibility and options to sculpt my sound.
• And most importantly, respond like I’m playing through an amp.

Right up to that point, I had tried the Flyrigs, IR boxes, Tube DIs, Amp-Emulators, Strymon Iridium, and Kemper/Line 6 type wizardry devices, to name a few. In my opinion, none of these checked all the boxes. They fulfilled some of the criteria but I always found myself back on the hunt. My biggest gripe was that none of the pedals (except the Iridium) ever felt like I was playing through an amp, even though this was what they were designed to do. And the ones that did feel like an amp were out of my price range.

I nearly stumbled upon the DSM & Humboldt Simplifier by accident. I ended up trading a Sansamp Tech21 GT2 and some cash for the Simplifier. Immediately, I knew that this was it. It looks great in black and white, is very lightweight, and is about the size of a DS-1 Boss Pedal. It’s a hands-on box, with all the controls on the surface, and no plugging into computers or downloading apps needed. I’m pretty old school, so I enjoy being able to physically turn a knob or flick a switch and instantly feel a difference in tone.

DSM Humboldt Simplifier User Interface

When looking at the Simplifier for the first time, it’s hard not to notice all the knobs and switches on the surface. Some may feel a bit overwhelmed and not know where to begin. Let me break it down for you.

The DSM & Humboldt Simplifier is divided into 3 main sections:

Section # 1: The Preamp

The Preamp is 100% true analog. It has controls for highs, mids, and lows along with Gain and Volume control knobs. This section emulates classic amps from the 70s and 80s. There are 3 switchable amp choices in the preamp section. The AC Brit = AC30, The American = Classic Blackface Deluxe, and the MS Brit = Vintage Plexi Style amps. They do a fantastic job of recreating the frequency responses of these classics amps stage by stage. This section feeds into the next stage.

Section # 2: The Power Amp Simulation

This section is characterized by the Presence and Resonance knobs along with the tube selector switch. The power amp section faithfully replicates the delicate interactions between the power tubes, the output transformers, and the speakers. It recreates how these aspects impact the frequency response and dynamics felt in a tube amp. The tone-shaping possibilities from the preamp and power amp simulation alone are more than enough. Each tube selection has an audible impact on the overall tone. The power amp sim feeds into the next stage.

Section # 3: Cabinet Simulation

This section offers a stereo cab sim, excellent for modulations and time-based effects. Both left and right channels can be independently controlled. The cab sim features mic position knobs and cabinet selector switches. The Mic positioning knobs move between “off-axis” and “center”. Turning the mic position to “center” makes the tone brighter. The Cab selector switches between combo, twin, and stack which are 1×12, 2×12, and 4×12. Once again, the tone-shaping possibilities are endless, especially for stereo rigs.

Connectivity

There are 4 total simultaneous outputs which break down into 2 Balanced XLR outs and 2 bypassable 1/4 TRS outs that can go straight to the amp. It has 1 input, 1 send, and a dual return. Also included is an aux input and a headphone amp for endless midnight noodling.

Spread Control

This little switch is tucked away on the side of the pedal. The spread control enables guitarists to create a pseudo-stereo image. This is done by shifting the phase of one of the channels on certain frequencies. The effect makes for a bigger and wider guitar sound, even while going mono. Use headphones to hear the spread control in full effect.

Spread Control

I have the DSM & Humboldt Simplifier on my pedalboard at all times. I use it in conjunction with all my other pedals. It takes pedals beautifully and the 3 classic preamp choices really bring different aspects of my pedals to life. The way I set up my rig is pretty simple: I run all of my compression, wah, drive, and EQ pedals through the input of the DSM & Humboldt Simplifier, then run all of my modulation and time-based effects through the effects loop. I’ve tried running everything through the input all at once, but I prefer this current configuration better. The DSM & Humboldt Simplifier preserves the tone of my drive pedals and then adds the colors of modulations and time-based effects underneath without crazy level changes or tonal shifts. Playing live, I’ve run the pedal through an amp, straight to front-of-house, plugged it into recording consoles, and have even tried FRFR speakers.

The DSM & Humboldt Simplifier does not disappoint. It delivers every time and is a treasure trove of tonal bliss.

User Feedback and Reviews

The DSM & Humboldt Simplifier has no doubt carved out a place for itself in the guitar community today. Following the release of the MK-II (The DSM & Humboldt Simplifier’s newest version) guitar forums online are filled with positive reviews about the DSM & Humboldt Simplifier. Musicians everywhere are praising the efforts of the team that has brought us this amazing pedal. It has truly solved some common problems for many players, including myself. No more heavy amps to load in and out, tubes blowing out, speakers failing, and ear-shattering volumes. In my opinion, finding a product that’s affordable, stylish, and user-friendly speaks volumes about the consumer-driven approach that the folks at DSM and Humboldt have adopted. It shows that they have their finger on the pulse of things and are listening to their customer base.

Conclusion

The DSM & Humboldt Simplifier is a revolutionary new way in which guitarists can approach tonal sculpting, recording, amp, and cabinet simulations. Its straightforward user interface and faithful tonal replication make it a must-have for musicians. Whether you’re a gigging musician, a seasoned studio veteran, a weekend warrior, or just starting out in the world of guitar pedals and effects, a world of possibilities awaits within the DSM & Humboldt Simplifier.