Frequently Asked Questions

Axe-Fx Features

What amps does the Axe-Fx simulate?

See the List of amp simulations

What mics does the Axe-Fx simulate?

See the Description of Mic Models

What drive pedals does the Axe-Fx simulate?

See the Description of drive models

What effects does the Axe-Fx offer?

See the Feature comparison

How does the Spillover work on the Axe-Fx?

See Spillover

What poweramp is used for the Brit pre Model?

The preamp part is a JMP-1. The power amp is from the JCM800.

What are the frequencies and Q of the Global EQ?

See the Global parameters

Axe-Fx Technical Questions

Will the Axe-Fx work in both Europe and the United States?

Yes - the Axe has universal power input, 100-240VAC, 50-60Hz.

What is the processing latency of the Axe-Fx?

The processing latency is constant and very short. That was a design goal. It is around 600 microseconds IIRC. That's equivalent to being only 8 inches further away from the speakers. One thing many manufacturers do is use fairly large block sizes to keep function overhead from wasting clock cycles. The block size in the Axe-Fx is small which wastes some clock cycles but keeps latency down.

The total latency is around 1 ms. There is 600us processing latency plus an additonal 400us of converter latency. If you use the loop you get another 400 us due to another codec in the chain.

What is the patch change time for the Axe-Fx?

Preset switching time is around 25-30 ms with delay spillover off. With delay spillover on, it's around 15 ms.

What is the backup battery for the Axe-Fx?

Standard CR2450 lithium battery.

Do the output knobs on the front have any influence on the level of the digital out?

No

What is the difference in processor speed and memory between Ultra and Standard?

20% faster. 6x the memory.

My Axe-FX has duplicate factory preset patches in banks A and B and bank C is empty.

Units ship with Bank A and Bank B populated. The presets in Bank B are duplicates of Bank A for convenience. Bank C is left empty.

Firmware Questions

How do you update the firmware?

See Firmware install notes

Where can I get the latest firmware?

"Due to hacking attempts firmware is now available on a request basis only. If you'd like to install the newest firmware please send an email to support@fractalaudio.com with your name and we'll send you the information on how to download."

What are the differences in firmware revisions?

See Firmware history

Operational Questions

How do I upload or download patches to the axe-fx

Use the Axe-Fx editor or
See How to download/upload patches

Is there anyway to fast forward through presets using the dial?

Yes, turning the dial quickly will fast-forward thru the presets. Turning it slowly you will feel the knob click for each preset change. The key is to not spin it too fast. If you spin the knob too quickly the dial switches will bounce and reject the data. Maintain an even rotation rate and the "acceleration" will engage and it will fast-forward. There's a new algorithm available for the rotary encoder logic that improves the behavior of the dial which comes by default on newer built units. If you have the old algorithm, you can send it to fractal audio to install the new one.

Fractal Audio Questions

Who is Cliff Chase?

See Cliff Chase interview