Vari-Amp is a Rhodes preamp plugin for Windows and macOS that combines six vintage-inspired preamp circuits, eight amplifier models and eight microphone models in a dual-module layout.
Vari-Amp at a glance
| Developer | Rhodes |
|---|---|
| Type | Effects / Preamp |
| Operating systems | Windows 10 or later, macOS |
| Apple Silicon | Native |
| RAM | 8 GB or more |
| Price on Plugin Boutique (October 2026) | €79.79 (regular €113.99) |
What Vari-Amp does
At the core of Vari-Amp sits a dual-module architecture with separate Amp and Mic sections, each carrying its own preamp.
The eight amplifier models include the DUO, the 8015 Combo with its rich midrange, the L5 and the Rhodes Suitcase Cabinet, and the eight microphone models cover dynamic, condenser and ribbon options. A three-mode Drive circuit, based on the MK8 preamp, adds variable saturation and harmonic colour, while a compressor with parallel mix and flexible pre/post routing and a global EQ and reverb module sit alongside. Input gain interacts with the circuit response and harmonic structure, and presets can be recalled instantly.
Key features
- Six Rhodes preamps. Six preamp circuits cover vintage smooth saturation through to crisp modern edge, each with its own EQ model and harmonic response.
- Three-mode Drive. A Drive circuit based on the MK8 preamp offers three modes of variable overdrive saturation and harmonic colour.
- Compressor with parallel mix. The compressor provides a parallel mix control and flexible pre or post routing relative to the preamp sections.
- Global EQ and reverb. A global module adds tonal enhancement and ambience after the signal path, and input gain changes how the circuit responds.
Compatibility
Vari-Amp runs on Windows and macOS, with native support for Apple Silicon listed. Windows 10 is the minimum operating system and 8 GB of RAM is listed as the requirement.
Who it is for
Keyboardists, guitarists, producers and mix engineers who want a Rhodes-inspired preamp chain to shape single tracks or groups.
Vari-Amp compared with similar plugins
Virtual Preamp Collection by Slate Digital is an effects and preamp plugin available as VST3, VST2, AU and AAX for Windows and macOS, so it covers the same host formats as Vari-Amp.
| Plugin | Developer | Type | Formats | Systems | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vari-Amp | Rhodes | Preamp | Windows, macOS | €79.79 (regular €113.99) | |
| Virtual Preamp Collection | Slate Digital | Preamp | VST3, VST2, AU, AAX | Windows, macOS | €48.59 |
| Pre 1973 | Arturia | Preamp | VST2, AU, AAX, Standalone | Windows, macOS | €50.58 |
| Pre V76 | Arturia | Preamp | VST2, AU, AAX, Standalone | Windows, macOS | €50.58 |
| Lifeline Pre | Excite Audio | Preamp | VST3, AU, AAX, Standalone | Windows, macOS | €4.96 (regular €18.84) |
Price and availability
Vari-Amp was listed on Plugin Boutique in October 2026 at €79.79, reduced from €113.99. Prices change often, so the store page shows the current one.
Vari-Amp FAQ
Is there a working serial key or keygen for Vari-Amp?
A working serial is the string most often typed in searches, alongside keygen and serial key pairings for the Rhodes name.
Does Vari-Amp run on Apple Silicon Macs?
Native support for Apple Silicon is listed for Vari-Amp, and the macOS build is the one packed as a .dmg crack.