Jam Rig is coming soon. Use this guide to get familiar with the setup before the first public release.
1. Install Jam Rig
Download the official Windows installer from the Download page. Run the signed installer and follow its prompts. The installer will be available here when Jam Rig launches.
2. Configure your audio device
Use an audio interface or a USB-equipped guitar amp that provides USB audio. Connect it before opening Jam Rig, install the manufacturer's current Windows driver where required, then choose the device and input/output channels in audio settings. Start with a moderate buffer size. Lower buffers reduce latency; higher buffers can improve stability.
For example, Positive Grid documents USB recording and playback for Spark 2 in its USB setup guide. This is an example of USB audio capability, not a claim of tested Jam Rig compatibility. Check your exact amp model: USB ports used only for charging or preset editing do not provide an audio interface.
USB input/output routing, monitoring, and access to a dry guitar signal vary by amp. Check the manufacturer's instructions before adding software amp sims, and avoid monitoring the same signal through both the amp and software if it causes doubling. Test your device with the Jam Rig Play trial. Jam Rig is not affiliated with or endorsed by Positive Grid.
3. Scan VST3 plugins
Run the plugin scan so Jam Rig can find installed 64-bit VST3 effects and instruments. If one is missing, confirm that the VST3 format is installed in a standard location and that any third-party license manager is working.
4. Connect guitar and MIDI
For guitar, use an instrument or Hi-Z input on your interface, or the guitar input on your USB audio-capable amp, and verify a healthy level without clipping. For keys, connect a MIDI keyboard, enable its input, open the Keys view, and load a software instrument.
5. Build and save a rig
Add plugins in the desired order, choose settings, and save the complete setup as a rig preset. Use scenes where you want to switch multiple settings together while playing.
6. Set up a practice song
Create a song, link the preferred rig preset, and add any external YouTube or tab links. You can also add a local backing track, choose a loop, adjust playback speed, and save practice notes.
7. Start a jam
Choose a drum pattern or establish a rhythm loop, record a first part, and add overdubs. Use A/B sections to explore related ideas and save the session for later.
8. Activate a license
The one-time license supports two computers. Activation instructions will be included with the public release.
Troubleshooting checklist
- Restart Jam Rig after connecting new audio or MIDI hardware.
- Confirm the audio interface driver and input channel.
- Raise the buffer size if audio crackles.
- Verify the plugin is a 64-bit VST3 build.
- Temporarily simplify the rig to isolate a problem plugin.
