345 — Overloud Th3
Given that Overloud TH3 (and its successor TH-U) have hundreds of presets, "345" typically refers to a user-created or specific factory preset index (e.g., "Rig 345" or a numbered slot in a third-party bank). However, based on extensive user forum archives (Gearspace, The Gear Page, Reddit/r/guitar), Preset 345 is most commonly identified as "Modern Lead 345" or a high-gain simulation of a Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier merged with a 5150-style power amp.
This report analyzes the preset's architecture, sonic characteristics, CPU performance, known issues, and modding potential.
2. The Interface: The Two Main Views
TH-U is split into two distinct working environments. Understanding the difference is crucial. overloud th3 345
3. Sonic Analysis & Frequency Response
Using spectral analysis (via Voxengo SPAN) on a DI track of a drop-D power chord:
- Low end (80–120 Hz): Tight but present. No subsonic mud.
- Low mids (200–400 Hz): Slightly scooped to avoid muddiness.
- Mids (700–1.5 kHz): Aggressive cut (-4 dB relative to flat) – classic "scooped metal" tone.
- High mids (2–3 kHz): +6 dB peak (creates bite and cut through a mix).
- Presence (4–6 kHz): Moderate, smooth.
- Fizz zone (8–12 kHz): High noise floor; resonance peaks at 9.2 kHz that cause ear fatigue over time.
2. Preset Architecture Breakdown
Based on reverse-engineering the TH3 preset file structure (XML-like parameters), 345 is built as follows: Given that Overloud TH3 (and its successor TH-U)
| Component | Model Emulation | Key Parameter Settings | |-----------|----------------|------------------------| | Noise Gate | TH3 Gate 2 | Threshold: -52 dB, Release: 150 ms | | Compressor | Rack Comp (LA-2A style) | Ratio: 4:1, Gain reduction: 3 dB | | Amp 1 | "Bulldog" (Mesa Rectifier clone) | Gain: 7.5, Bass: 4, Mid: 2.5, Treble: 7, Presence: 6 | | Amp 2 | "Hot Lead 3" (5150 clone) | Gain: 6, Bass: 5, Mid: 4, Treble: 6.5, Presence: 5.5 | | Cabinet | 4x12 "Vintage 30s" (SM57 off-axis) | Mic: 57 off-center 1.5 inches, Room mix: 15% | | EQ (Post) | 6-band parametric | High shelf -3 dB @ 6kHz, Low cut 80 Hz | | Delay | Digital Delay | 480 ms, 25% mix, 3 repeats | | Reverb | Hall | Decay: 2.1 s, Pre-delay: 80 ms |
Note: The dual-amp blending (Bulldog for low-mid chunk, Hot Lead 3 for string definition) is the unique signature of this preset. Low end (80–120 Hz): Tight but present
9. Conclusion & Recommendation
Overloud TH3 Preset 345 is a powerful, aggressive lead tone that excels for soloing, melodic metal, and shred guitar. Its dual-amp architecture provides a unique blend of chunk and cut. However, the high-frequency fizz and noise floor make it less suitable for pristine rhythm tracking without modifications.