Are amp blocks necessary?

[unix-guy]

Well you can guess that I just used the wrong word accidentally.

Fair enough... But I don't like to assume

 

[USMC_Trev]

Amp blocks are necessary as the entire point of the Fractal Axe-FX is the amp modeling. Why would i want to save CPU on the whole reason for it's existence? You can always skimp on reverb fidelity or cab res in a pinch but the amp block is where it's at.

 

[Eric T Amble]

Me, somewhere I have a preset that’s two separate amp/cab paths, plus a path with a Shred Dist into a TM block (simulating a cab) with a little reverb, plus a path with a Ruckus into a PEQ, rolling off the highs, with another reverb. It’s almost like: how much more thick could it be? And the answer is none—none more thick.
(*Until the III comes out)

 

[VegasGuitar]

It works and can sound quite convincing. The feel is on par with the original POD though if that's what you're going for

Well! That opens a lot of doors to some more fiddling!! Nicely done!