Side by side
Helix Stadium Native vs Rustortion
Both stand on guitar amp software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APIMacWindows
Helix Stadium Native combines amp and effects models with DAW integration, MIDI control, and compatible presets. Check the full-license model details and supported formats against your setup before choosing it.
Visit Helix Stadium Native Free plan LinuxWindows
Pick Rustortion if you need a free amp simulator for Linux or Windows and want standalone or DAW plugin use with flexible processing. Look elsewhere if you need a macOS build or prefer software described as beyond experimental development.
Visit RustortionThe facts
| Helix Stadium Native | Rustortion | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Mac, Windows | Linux, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Registered Helix Stadium XL/Floor owner: $99.99, paid once | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 9 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | line6.com | github.com |
| On guitar amp software | #10 of 35 | #14 of 35 |
Helix Stadium Native: what it does well
- Free Intro version has no time limit.
- Supports AAX, AU, and VST3 formats.
- Loads third-party cabinet impulse responses.
- MIDI can control parameters and snapshots.
What to know first
- It is not a standalone app.
- Runs on macOS and Windows only.
- Full license costs 399.99 USD one-time.
Rustortion: what it does well
- Free and MIT-licensed, with standalone, VST3, and CLAP options.
- Twelve DSP stages include preamp, effects, graphic EQ, and NAM loading.
- Configurable oversampling ranges from 1x to 16x.
- Impulse response cabinet simulation supports guitar and bass.
- Includes tuner, real-time recording, pitch shifting, and MIDI support.
What to know first
- There is no macOS build.
- Linux requires PipeWire and JACK support plus a Rust toolchain.
- The project is experimental and advises use at the user's own risk.
- Linux aarch64 and Windows plugin builds are not hand-tested.
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