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FASLINK

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What is FASLINK

FASLINK is a proprietary Fractal Audio communications link between the Axe-Fx processor and foot controller via an XLR cable. XLR cables (microphone cables) are common, flexible and robust. Runs of hundreds of feet are possible. FASLINK provides two-way communication and phantom power.

  • FASLINK (original): Connects the Axe-Fx II and MFC-101.
  • FASLINK II: Connects the Axe-Fx III and the FC foot controller(s), featuring a new protocol.

FASLINK has replaced previous connection methods: MIDI and Ethernet.

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Which Fractal Audio products support it

Axe-Fx II XL and XL+: built-in FASLINK support.

Axe-Fx II Mark I and II: require a FASLINK adapter to convert wiring from Ethernet/Ethercon to XLR.

MFC-101 Mark III: built-in FASLINK support.

MFC-101 Mark I and II: require a FASLINK adapter to convert wiring from Ethernet/Ethercon to XLR.

Axe-Fx III: built-in FASLINK II support.

FC controllers: built-in FASLINK II support.

Adapters for older hardware

The FASLINK XA-1 and XA-2 are adapters to convert wiring on older Axe-Fx and MFC-101 hardware (see above) from Ethernet/Ethercon to XLR. These adapters are "active" (source). They can be bought directly from Fractal Audio's online shop and G66.

The adapters do not support FASLINK II.

XA-1 diagram.png

XA-2 diagram.png

FASLINK adapters.png

More information in the FASLINK Setup Guide.

Setting it up

Axe-Fx III: to be added.

Axe-Fx II: turn on FASLINK in the I/O menu.

MFC-101: select the correct port in the MFC settings. WARNING: do NOT connect a power supply to the MFC-101 when using FASLINK!

More information

"The FASLINK port is protected against shorts." source