Firmware

User contributions

Firmware updates

One of the best features of the Axe-Fx II is its frequent updates, for free! This way it's continuously improved and its functionality and features are extended. The latest firmware version can be downloaded from Fractal Audio Support.

Update procedure

The easiest way to upgrade the firmware is via USB.

Alternatively you can update via MIDI:

1. Connect your computer's MIDI Out to the Axe-Fx II"s MIDI In.
2. Load the firmware sysex file into a MIDI librarian utility.
3. On the Axe-Fx II press UTILITY and then PAGE until you reach the FIRMWARE page.
4. Press ENTER.
5. Send the file from the computer to the Axe-Fx II. A progress box should appear on the Axe-Fx II displaying the transfer progress. It will take some time to transfer the file.
6. If all goes well the Axe-Fx II will display "GOOD CHECKSUM" and proceed to reprogram the flash memory. If the file format was incorrectly interpreted by your librarian or any other problems occur the Axe-Fx will display "BAD CHECKSUM" and abort the update procedure. If this happens turn the unit off and then back on and check your librarian settings and then repeat this procedure.
7. After the flash has been reprogrammed the unit should automatically reboot. Occasionally the unit may not reboot automatically in which case turn the unit off, wait several seconds and turn back on.
8. Verify the update was succesful by checking the revision listed on the FIRMWARE page.

When using MIDI-over-USB the transfer speed can be increased significantly by setting "Milliseconds between buffers" to 20 ms and "Delay after F7" to 20 ms.

Using MIDI-OX

When using MIDI-OX (Windows) to send firmware to the Axe-Fx II, be aware that its default settings may cause a buffer overrun error. Change Low Level I/O Buffers size to 256, and number to 16, and Milliseconds between buffers to 90.

Updating presets after a firmware update

Updated firmware may cause changes in your presets. Read the firmware release notes and verify your presets. Also, major firmware revisions may change the structure of presets. Use Preset Update (Utility > Preset) to update all presets to the new protocol. Usually the firmware release notes will explicitly instruct you to do this if necessary.

Driver control panel

The firmware upgrade option in the Axe II's driver control panel is grayed out. This is normal. Source

Programming language

The firmware is coded in C and assemby. Source