Formant block

Available on which products

• Axe-Fx III: 2 blocks
• FM9: 2 blocks
• FM3: 2 blocks
• Axe-Fx II: 1 block
• FX8: 1 block
• AX8: 1 block

Channels or X/Y switching

• Axe-Fx III and FM9and FM3: 4 channels
• Axe-Fx II: no
• FX8: no
• AX8: no

What is the Formant block

The Formant filter simulates human vowel sounds.

More information in Wikipedia and the Owner's Manuals.

Position of the Formant block on the grid

For best results, put the block between the Amp and Cab blocks.

Factory presets

The Formant block is showcased in a few factory presets. Search the Factory presets page for "formant".

Parameters

Parameter	Axe-Fx III / FM3
Start Vowel	yes
Middle Vowel	yes
End Vowel	yes
Resonance	yes
Control	yes

Tips and tricks

Simulate a talkbox

The Formant effect lets you simulate a talkbox and, if you really really must, play Livin' on a Prayer.

Attach a controller to the Control parameter in the Formant block, either an internal controller such as an LFO, or a pedal.

Forum discussion

A real talkbox doesn't use a speaker, so experiment with leaving out a Cab block in the preset.

Want tips for integrating your real talkbox in your Axe-Fx or AX8 rig? Search the forum for "banshee" or "talkbox".

Talk box in Wikipedia

Emphasize frequencies

The Formant can be used to emphasize frequencies, for example when creating a Seek Wah effect. Put the Formant after the Wah block.

Make other sounds more vocal

Add the Formant to make other sounds more like human vocals.

Prevent clipping

Because of the resonant frequencies of the Formant filter, it's easy to make the digital signal clip. Keep sufficient headroom.