Strymon Iridium vs Two Notes Torpedo Captor X
The Iridium wins for players who want a complete amp replacement — no real amp needed, go direct to interface or PA. The Torpedo wins for players who want to use their real amp silently by replacing the speaker cabinet with IR simulation.
Strymon Iridium
Strymon's premium amp-in-a-box — three amp types (Round/Chime/Hi-Gain representing Fender/Vox/Marshall characters) with IR-based cab simulation. The professional standard for direct recording without a physical amp.
Players who need a compact, professional direct recording solution — particularly those who want to cover Fender/Vox/Marshall territory in one reliable pedal
Two Notes Torpedo Captor X
A reactive loadbox with integrated IR-based speaker simulation — plugs into your real amp's speaker output for silent stage and direct recording. Captures the character of your actual amp's power stage while replacing the physical speaker.
Players with a real amp who want silent stage or direct recording capability without losing the feel of their power amp — the alternative to amp modelling
Tone Character
Strymon Iridium
- ✓ Three exceptional amp voicings covering all major categories
- ✓ IR-based cab simulation with third-party IR support
- ✓ Compact and reliable for touring
- ✓ Excellent direct recording quality
- ✓ Stereo in/out
- ✗ Three amp models only — not a full modeller
- ✗ No expression pedal input for wah/volume
- ✗ At £399, high price for limited amp selection
Two Notes Torpedo Captor X
- ✓ Preserves real amp's power stage character
- ✓ Reactive load (not resistive) — feels natural to play through
- ✓ Integrated IR cab simulation
- ✓ Wide impedance range (4/8/16Ω)
- ✓ Stereo outs for stereo cab simulation
- ✗ Requires a real amp to be useful
- ✗ More expensive than a standalone amp sim
- ✗ IR management requires Two Notes Wall of Sound software
When To Choose Each
Players who want a compact amp simulator for silent practice, fly dates and direct recording without any real amp.
Players who own a real amp and want to use it silently on stage or in the studio with accurate IR cabinet simulation.
Final Verdict — Strymon Iridium vs Two Notes Torpedo Captor X
Best for beginners
Two Notes Torpedo Captor X
Two Notes Torpedo Captor X scores higher on versatility (55/100) and lower on gain (0/100) — a more forgiving starting point than Strymon Iridium.
Best for metal tones
Strymon Iridium
Strymon Iridium leads on gain (45/100) and bass response (60/100) — the two tonal pillars of metal playing.
Best value
Strymon Iridium
At £399 vs £399, Strymon Iridium delivers 0% cost savings. The tonal trade-off is meaningful.
Specification Summary
| Strymon Iridium | Two Notes Torpedo Captor X | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £399 | £399 |
| Category | Amp Sim | Loadbox |
| Gain | 45/100 | 0/100 |
| Warmth | 65/100 | 65/100 |
| Treble | 60/100 | 60/100 |
| Bass | 60/100 | 60/100 |
| Versatility | 68/100 | 55/100 |
| Best for | Players who need a compact, professional direct recording solution | Players with a real amp who want silent stage or direct recording capability without losing the feel of their power amp |
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Frequently Asked Questions
A reactive loadbox with IR-based speaker simulation — plugs into your amp's speaker output for silent stage use.
Torpedo Captor X — it is a loadbox, not an amp sim. Iridium replaces the amp entirely.
Torpedo — it captures your real amp's power stage character with IR cabs.
Iridium — no amp needed. Better for fly dates and hotel room practice.