The ENGL Cabloader is a speaker simulator, impulse response loader (IR), and DI box designed to deliver a full guitar tone directly to a mixing console, audio interface, or headphones. It features 12 ENGL speaker cabinet simulations based on different configurations including 1x12, 2x12, and 4x12 cabinets, along with 10 microphone models and 4 power amp simulations, allowing detailed control over the final character of the signal.

In addition to its internal simulations, it allows loading up to 4 third-party IRs in WAV format via its Micro USB connection and ENGL software. It offers controls for selecting the cabinet, power amp type, presence, volume, microphone, microphone position, and distance. Its two Favourite footswitches enable saving and recalling two presets, with the ability to toggle between them and the current panel settings. It features a balanced XLR output with Ground Lift, unbalanced 1/4" Jack output, Thru output, and headphone connection, making it a highly versatile solution for pedalboards, recording, live performance, and silent practice.

• Type: Speaker simulator, IR loader, and DI box
• Speaker simulations: 12 ENGL models
• User IRs: 4 slots for third-party IRs
• IR format: WAV
• IR length: 1024 samples / 23.22 ms
• Resolution: 24-bit
• Sample rate: At least 44.1 kHz
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 100 dB
• Microphone simulations: 10 models + Off
• Microphone controls: Center and Distance
• Power amp simulations: 4 models + Off
• Power amp controls: Presence and Master
• Input level: Instrument / Line
• Presets: 2 Favourite memories via footswitch
• Bypass: True Bypass
• Input: 6.3 mm Jack
• Unbalanced output: 6.3 mm Jack
• Balanced output: XLR
• Thru output: 6.3 mm Jack
• Dedicated headphone output
• Ground Lift for XLR output
• USB connection: Micro USB for IR loading
• Power supply: 9 V DC / 300 mA, center negative
• Dimensions: 120 x 95 x 55.5 mm
• Weight: Approximately 409 g

Our Opinion

The ENGL Cabloader is particularly useful for players who want to keep their pedals or amplifier preamp and send a prepared signal directly to PA or audio interface without relying on microphone placement. The combination of IR, microphone simulation, and power amp modeling allows for much more detailed sound shaping than a basic speaker simulator, and its XLR and headphone outputs make it very practical for live, recording, and silent practice setups.

It’s important to note that it is not a load box. When used with a tube amplifier, it should be connected from an appropriate output such as the FX Send or Line Out; never directly from the speaker output. The amplifier must remain connected to a speaker cabinet or suitable load when necessary.