Kemper: the German pioneer of guitar amp profiling

Kemper: the German pioneer of guitar amp profiling

Founded by Christoph Kemper, inventor of the famous Access Virus synthesizer, Kemper GmbH revolutionized the guitar world with a unique technology: amplifier profiling. Based in Recklinghausen, Germany, the brand introduced the Kemper Profiler in 2011, a device that forever changed how guitarists approach their sound, whether on stage or in the studio.

Profiling technology: far more than modeling

Unlike traditional digital modelers that simulate pre-programmed amplifier circuits, the Kemper Profiler uses patented profiling (or "capture") technology. The principle is simple yet revolutionary: the Profiler sends a white noise signal into a real amplifier, captures the result via a microphone placed in front of the speaker, and analyzes the frequency response, compression, amplifier sag, and distortion characteristics. The result is a faithful digital fingerprint that Kemper calls the amplifier's "profile."

This approach allows guitarists to capture the exact sound of their favorite amplifiers, including the complex interaction between the amp, cabinet, microphone, and room. In 2025, Kemper unveiled PROFILING 2.0, raising precision to over 100,000 frequency points for even greater fidelity.

The flagship products of the Kemper range

The Kemper range has expanded considerably since the launch of the first Profiler. Here are the main models currently available:

Kemper Profiler Head MK2

The classic amp head format, now in MK2 version with an improved processor, a lighter aluminum chassis, 7 additional effect slots, and an 8-channel USB interface. Available with or without a built-in 600W power amplifier (PowerHead). The brand's most iconic model.

Kemper Profiler Rack MK2

The rack-mountable version of the Profiler, ideal for studios and touring racks. Features the same MK2 improvements as the Head, with the same power and flexibility in a 2U rack format.

Kemper Profiler Stage MK2

The all-in-one floorboard format, perfect for live musicians. Integrates a complete foot controller with all the Profiler's features in a portable format. The ideal companion for the stage.

Kemper Profiler Player

The smallest and most affordable in the range. This mini-stompbox format lets you take the power of Kemper profiling anywhere, even in a guitar bag. MK2 compatible and upgradeable via software updates (Level I, II, and III).

Kemper Remote MK2

The dedicated 12-switch foot controller for total control of Rigs and effects on stage. Designed to accompany any Profiler.

Kemper Kabinet and Kone

The Kabinet is a lightweight cabinet paired with the exclusive Kone speaker, which uses CabDriver technology to reproduce the behavior of different classic speakers. An all-in-one solution for those who want a traditional amp sound with all the flexibility of digital.

Liquid Profiling: the innovation that changed everything

In 2023, Kemper introduced Liquid Profiling, a major breakthrough that addressed the main criticism of the original Profiler: the behavior of the equalization potentiometers. With Liquid Profiling, the EQ controls now respond like those of the original amplifier, combining the captured profile with digitally modeled equalization stacks. The result is an infinitely more natural and authentic playing experience.

Rig Manager: the Kemper software ecosystem

Rig Manager is the free profile management software, available on Mac, PC, iPhone, iPad, and Android. It allows you to browse the Rig Exchange which features over 15,000 free profiles created by the community, organize your Rigs and Performances by drag-and-drop, and keep the Profiler up to date with the latest firmware versions. An invaluable resource for any Kemper user.

Why the Kemper Profiler has become a benchmark

The Kemper Profiler has established itself as an industry standard for several reasons. First, it solved the major problem for touring guitarists: being able to reproduce a perfect and consistent amp sound every night without transporting heavy and fragile amplifiers. Second, its sound quality convinced the biggest names in guitar, from Paul Gilbert to Pat Metheny, as well as Matt Heafy (Trivium), Tom Morello (Rage Against the Machine), and Alex Skolnick (Testament).

In the studio, the Profiler offers instant access to hundreds of amplifier profiles without the constraints of microphone placement. PURE CABINET technology allows direct recording without coloration, ideal for situations where the microphone needs to remain invisible. Guitar World ranked the Kemper Profiler among the "50 greatest guitar gear pieces of the century."

Kemper at Green Musicians

At Green Musicians, you will find the Kemper Profiler Head + Remote, the winning duo for demanding guitarists. The Profiler Head (MK2) combined with the Remote MK2 controller offers a complete solution for stage and studio, with next-generation profiling power and total control of your live sounds.