Realtime Analyzer block

Available on which Fractal Audio products

• Axe-Fx III: 1 block
• Axe-Fx II: no
• AX8: no
• FX8: no

X/Y and channels

• Axe-Fx II: no
• Axe-Fx II: n/a
• AX8: n/a
• FX8: n/a

About the RTA

The RTS provides detailed visual feedback of the audio spectrum. Possible uses are described below.

To find and fight feedback

One of its uses is detecting frequencies where undesired feedback occurs. You can then use a PEQ to cut those frequencies.

“Use it to identify problem frequencies or as a spiffy screen saver.” source

As an interactive screen saver

“Use it to identify problem frequencies or as a spiffy screen saver.” source

To test I/O hardware

The RTA can be used to test the hardware I/O. For example, to test the Instrument input: (source)

1. Go to a blank preset.
2. Create a chain that connects Input 1 to the RTA block. On a separate row create a chain where the Synth block feeds Output 3.
3. Set the Synth Type = Sine, Tracking = Off, Frequency = 1000 Hz.
4. Connect an instrument cable from Output 3 (left or right) to the Instrument Input.
5. Set the Input 1 / Instrument A/D Input Level (Home->Setup->I/O) to 50%.
6. Turn the Out 3 Level knob all the way up.
7. The Input 1 yellow LED should be lit. Red should not be lit. Go to the RTA block Config tab. Set Bands to 128, Window to Blackman. Go to the RTA tab. There should be a narrow spike at 1 kHz (three bands). There should be no other bands showing power except maybe a little noise at the highest bands. The spike at 1 kHz should be about 2 1/4 divisions below full-scale.

To measure the frequency response of other hardware

The RTA can be used to measure other equipment in combination with the Synth block. For example, to measure the frequency response of an external pedal, set the Synth block to Pink Noise, send it through the pedal, and use the RTA to measure and see the response.

Connecting the RTA

The RTA block requires an input signal and doesn't send a signal out, so its output doesn't need to be connected.

How to view the RTA

Scroll to the RTA block and press Edit to view the dynamic meters. It makes for a great display during performances.

To make the peaks remain longer visible, adjust Decay Time.

Turn the Value knob to select the desired band, and the frequency of the selected band will be displayed in the upper left corner.

Parameters table

Parameter	Axe-Fx III	Axe-Fx II	AX8, FX8
Decay Time	yes	n/a	n/a
Input Select	yes	n/a	n/a
Bands	yes	n/a	n/a
Window Type	yes	n/a	n/a