Fractal Audio Axe-Fx III User manual

Manual Version 1.0g for Axe-Fx III Firmware 1.x

Inside Front Cover

i
Declaration of Conformity
Manufacturer’s Name: Fractal Audio Systems, LLC
Manufacturer’s Address: 4 Wilder Drive, Plaistow, NH 03865 USA
Declares that the product:
Product name: Axe-Fx III Product option: None
Conforms to the following Product Specications:
Safety: EN60065:2014
EMC: EN55013:2013
EN55020:2007+A11:2011
EN55024:2010
EN61000-3-2:2014
EN61000-3-3:2013
Supplementary Information:
The product herewith complies with the requirements of
the Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC
and the EMC Directive 2004/108/EC.
Clifford Chase
President / CEO
January 22, 2018
EMC/EMI
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B Digital device, pursuant
to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in residential installations. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. There is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

ii
Legal Notices
Fractal Audio Systems Axe-Fx III Owner’s Manual. Contents Copyright © 2018. All Rights Reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the express written permission of Fractal Audio Systems.
Fractal Audio, the Fractal Audio Systems logo, Axe-Fx, Humbuster, UltraRes, FASLINK are trademarks of Fractal Audio Systems.
Manufacturer names and product names mentioned herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners,
which are in no way associated with or afliated with Fractal Audio Systems, LLC. The names are used only to illustrate sonic and
performance characteristics.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of re or electric shock, do not expose this
appliance to rain or moisture.
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of re or electric shock, do not remove screws.
There are no user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualied service
personnel.
Important Safety Instructions
1. Obey all warnings on the Axe-Fx III chassis and in this User Guide.
2. Keep away from sources of heat such as ducts, registers or appliances that produce heat.
3. Connect only to a standard grounded AC outlet of 100–240V, 47–63 Hz.
4. Keep the power cord in good condition. Do not kink, bend, or pinch.
5. If the cord becomes damaged, discard and replace it.
6. If not using your Axe-Fx III for extended periods of time, disconnect from AC power.
7. Protect the unit from rain and excessive moisture.
8. Refer servicing to qualied personnel only.
9. Stop operation of the unit and obtain service if:
- Liquids or excessive moisture enter the unit.
- The unit operates incorrectly or performance is inconsistent or erratic.
- The unit has been dropped and/or the enclosure damaged.
10. Prolonged exposure to high volume levels can cause hearing damage and/or loss. The use of
hearing protection in high volume situations is recommended.
A Manual for Online and Print
This manual is intended for use in desktop, tablet, or smart phone readers. It includes clickable links and bookmarks to make
navigation and cross-reference easy. We recommend against printing, because rmware updates tend to make older versions
obsolete. That said, considerations have been taken for those who prefer paper. You are granted permission to print this PDF for
personal use only. A copy center or online printer can print and bind from the PDF le. Hopefully those with screen readers can
forgive the considerations taken for those who prefer paper: all links also include a page or section numbers, page spreads have
extra margins towards the binding edge, and blank pages/white space has been inserted to preserve page and chapter flow.

iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION .........................1
Welcome to the Axe-Fx III ..................1
Feature Summary ........................2
The Setup menu .........................3
Quick Connect Guide .....................4
Setting Levels ...........................5
Humbuster™ Cables ......................6
Mono vs. Stereo .........................6
The Home Page: Presets ..................7
Intro to the Layout Grid....................8
Intro to Scenes and Channels...............9
Grid Editing: Quick start ..................10
Block Editing: Quick start .................10
USB Overview ..........................11
Fractal-Bot & Axe-Edit III..................11
Connecting Pedals Directly................12
Global Expression Pedal Setup.............13
Global Volume Pedal Setup ...............13
2 HARDWARE OVERVIEW ..................14
The Front Panel.........................14
The Rear Panel .........................16
3 USB .................................18
Computer Integration ....................18
USB Inputs and Outputs ..................19
Mac OS X System Audio ..................20
Re-Amping ............................21
4 SETTING UP...........................22
General Principles.......................22
FRFR/Direct. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
FRFR monitor + FRFR to Front-of-House......24
Power Amp & Guitar Speakers .............25
Power Amp & Cab + FRFR/Direct ...........26
Four-Cable Method (“4CM”) ...............27
FX Processor only (“Post”) ................28
FX Processor only (“Pre”) .................29
Inserting Outboard Gear ..................30
Multi I/O Setups ........................31
5 PRESETS .............................32
Overview ..............................32
The Layout Grid ........................33
Working with Blocks .....................33
Connector Cables .......................35
Block Inventory .........................37
Example Preset Grids ....................38
Editing Effect Blocks.....................39
Saving Changes ........................40
Preset CPU Limits.......................41
6 SCENES & CHANNELS ...................42
Overview ..............................42
Changing Channels......................43
Setting Up Channels ....................43
Selecting Scenes .......................44
The Default Scene. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Selecting Scenes & Channels Remotely ......45
Program Change Mapping ................46
Sending MIDI with Scenes ................46
Scenes, Channels & Modiers .............47
Scene Revert...........................47
7 LEVELING PRESETS .....................48
A Method for Leveling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Block Bypass Levels .....................50
8 BLOCKS GUIDE.........................51
9 MODIFIERS ...........................99
Creating a Modier ......................99
Modier Tutorial: Wah Pedal..............100
Modier Tips And Tricks.................100
Modier Sources Overview ...............101
Modier Parameters....................102
Internal Controllers.....................105
External Controllers ....................106
Modiers List .........................106
Tutorial: Scene Controllers ...............107
10 TEMPO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108
Synchronizing Sound Parameters..........109
11 THE TUNER .........................110
Advanced Tuner Functions ...............110
Mini Tuners ...........................110
12 SETUP MENU ........................112
The Foot Controllers Menu ...............112
The Global Settings Menu................112
The I/O Menu .........................114
The IR Capture Utility ...................116
The MIDI/Remote Menu .................117
The Utilities Menu......................120
13 FC PROGRAMMING ...................121
14 IR CAPTURE.........................122
Method 1 Setup: Mic Only................123
Method 2 Setup: Mic + Di ................124
Capturing Impulse Responses ............125
15 ADDITIONAL TOPICS ..................126
Fractal-Bot ...........................126
Backing Up & Restoring .................126
Firmware Updates......................127
Recovery .............................128
Getting Help ..........................128
Loading User Cabs .....................129
Axe-Change...........................130
Frequently Asked Questions ..............131
Shortcuts ............................133
Spillover .............................134
LFO Waveforms & Phase ................135
Tempo Cross Reference .................136
MIDI Reference Tables ..................137
16 SPECIFICATIONS .....................140
MIDI Implementation ...................142
WARRANTY ...........................143
EULA ................................144

iv

1
1 INTRODUCTION
The Axe-Fx III is the latest product in our long line of industry-leading guitar processors, and the world’s most
powerful unit of its kind. Axe-Fx III runs our latest “Ares” amp models, plus UltraRes™ speaker cab simulations
and legendary effect algorithms, all with signicantly more raw power than any previous Fractal Audio Systems
product. Our vision for the new platform was to exceed anything done previously — to create a product that
sounds better, does more, and is easier to use than ever before.
Fractal Audio Systems is known for accurate amp modeling with the sound and feel of real tube amps. The
Axe-FxIII carries this torch high, with all of our current models and room for many new ones to come, all running
on a new platform designed for the future. “Ares” picks up where “Quantum” left off, with improvements and
upgrades coming all the time. Some may ask: “how can it still be getting better after all these years?” In the Axe-
Fx III, we discover that there is always room for improvement and evolution when the commitment to excellency is
real.
The hardware has been completely re-designed around a streamlined new workflow. The centerpiece is a dazzling
new high-contrast full-color display with 30x the resolution of previous products. This display works alongside
ve new endless-rotary push encoders. These “Push-knobs” do different things on different pages, with labels to
show dynamic functions. The end result is a user experience that’s immediately more intuitive. The display also
excels at animation for meters, modiers, and more.
Power and resources are vastly expanded. Two 1-GHz “Keystone” DSPs benchmark at 2.8x the power of the Axe-
Fx II, and there are two additional processors dedicated to graphics and USB. Peripherals include 4Gb of blazing
fast PC1600 DDR3 memory, hundreds of Mb of FLASH memory, a proprietary FPGA and more. The number of
inputs and outputs has more than doubled in comparison to previous products. Routing flexibility has also been
upgraded with dedicated Input and Output blocks for highly flexible preset and rig design. All 1/4" outputs feature
our Humbuster™ technology to help reduce the noise caused by ground loops.
Better sound quality has been achieved through an audiophile-grade signal path. The difference shines through
in lower noise floor, pristine clarity, and better USB audio performance than most dedicated audio interfaces.
Computer audio integration now includes a professional-quality 24-bit/48k 8×8 interface. Record multiple tracks
of processed audio at the same time, plus a DI. The re-amping workflow is improved with independent monitoring
of backing tracks and re-processed guitar tones while you dial in a sound.
Physically, the Axe-Fx III continues our tradition of combining extraordinary design with manufacturing quality
rugged enough to withstand the rigors of life on the road. The unit is housed in a steel enclosure with a one-piece
anodized aluminum faceplate/bezel featuring a glowing Axe-Fx III logo.
Axe-Edit™ III, a fully re-tooled version of our editor for Mac or PC, is packed with great new features including
Quickbuild mode, a Scene Manager, and window scaling on monitors up to 5k and beyond.
Of course the unit features upgradeable rmware, meaning the best is very likely yet to come via our free updates.
We hope you will enjoy using the Axe-Fx III as much as we’ve enjoyed creating (and playing) it.
WELCOME TO THE AXE-FX III
1 INTRODUCTION

2
1 INTRODUCTION
FEATURE SUMMARY
Rugged 3U steel chassis with a sleek anodized aluminum
front panel and illuminated “Axe-Fx III” logo.
Two 1-GHz “Keystone” DSPs benchmark
at 2.8x the power of the Axe-Fx II.
4Gb blazing fast PC1600 DDR3 memory, hundreds
of Mb of FLASH memory, proprietary FPGA.
Dedicated processors for graphics and USB.
VALUE knob optical encoder lifespan
rated for 1,000,000+ rotations.
Audiophile-quality signal path yields the best
sound quality, lowest THD, and lowest noise floor
of any product we’ve ever created by far.
Auto-switching front/rear instrument
inputs, both with “Secret Sauce IV”.
Three stereo inputs: 1 with XLR/1/4" combo
jacks, two with balanced 1/4" inputs.
Four stereo outputs: 1 with XLR outs, 1 with
both XLR and 1/4", and 2 with 1/4".
Humbuster technology on all 1/4" outputs
helps reduce noisy ground loops.
Front panel headphones output.
Front panel LED meter bridge for instant visibility of levels.
Easy-to-use interface allows intuitive and efcient editing.
Stunning color display with 30x the
resolution of our previous products.
Animated on-screen metering for every
block, input, output, and more.
5 soft-knobs with on-screen labels
for turn and push functions.
512 Preset memories, each an entire rig
with amp(s), cab(s) and effects.
New 14×6 grid layout allows larger presets.
New “Zoom” view shows the entire grid on one page.
8 nameable “Scenes” per preset store
settings like “presets within a preset”.
Revolutionary new “Channels” concept for fast,
seamless switching of up to four channels per block.
Built-in tools to copy Channels and Scenes within a preset.
Hundreds of accurate amp models with
real tube amp sound and feel.
New Cabinet block with a “Cab-Lab” style
multichannel mixer loads up to four IRs.
2,048 Factory cabs, 189 “Legacy” Cabs (from Axe-Fx
II), 2,048 User Cabs and 16 Scratchpad memories.
Factory IRs from Fractal Audio, AustinBuddy, Celestion, Dr.
Bonkers, ML Sound Lab, OwnHammer, John Petrucci, Chris
Traynor, James Santiago, Valhallir, York Audio, and more.
Presets can now contain up to four of each
Compressor, Drive, and Delay blocks.
New blocks: Plex Delay, Ten-Tap Delay,
Multiplexer, Realtime Analyzer and more.
Effect Types create classic sounds at the
turn of a knob. Types include 37 drives, 44
reverbs, 32 delays, and many more.
New fully modeled analog Tri-stereo Chorus type.
Improved Pitch block with faster pitch detection.
Improved Reverb is even richer and smoother than ever.
New fully parametric “Input EQ” in Amp block.
Fully revamped 5.8 minute stereo Looper with undo.
Tone Matching to clone any tone, now in UltraRes.
Built-in IR Capture Utility shows data in
either Time or Frequency domain.
New Input and Output blocks make
routing more flexible than ever.
Improved and faster Tuner featuring a new interface.
8×8 USB Audio with better audio performance
than most dedicated interfaces.
Dedicated USB Input block for reamping/processing tracks.
MIDI-over-USB between Axe-Fx III and a computer is
10× faster than the same connection on Axe-Fx II.
MIDI IN, OUT and THRU ports.
Rich MIDI implementation allows extensive remote control.
The new “Scene MIDI” block enables each scene to
transmit up to 8 PC/CC messages when loaded.
Optional MIDI PC/Bank transmission
when a new preset is loaded.
Two on-board PEDAL jacks for expression
pedals like the Fractal Audio EV-1 and EV-2.
New FASLINK 2 connector for our next-gen
“FC”Series Foot Controllers.
New “Client-Server” architecture allows multiple FC
series foot controllers and Axe-Edit to control the Axe-
Fx III and update each other seamlessly and instantly.
Daisy-chain FC series foot controllers for a “Mega
Pedalboard” or to allow player and tech to share
switching responsibilities on “cloned” systems.
Future proof: as ever, fully upgradeable rmware
means free updates for years to come.
Built-in backup rmware allows recovery in the
event of complications during update.
And much more.

3
1 INTRODUCTION
Throughout this manual, you will be directed to the Setup menu of the Axe-Fx III for a range of options
including I/O, MIDI, global settings, and more. It includes the following areas:
The Foot Controllers menu includes all settings for a connected FC Series controller.
The Global Settings menu includes options which govern the behavior of the Axe-Fx III.
The I/O menu contains settings for all inputs and outputs, including levels, audio options, and
switches or expression pedals connected directly to the Axe-Fx III.
The IR Capture utility is used to create impulse responses for use in the Cab block.
The MIDI/Remote menu contains MIDI settings, plus several pages of remote controller assignments
for the many remote-control functions of the Axe-Fx III.
The Utilities menu contains informative readouts plus a control to adjust screen brightness.
Access and use the Setup menu as follows:
Press HOME.
Push the “E” soft knob for the SETUP main menu.
Use the NAV buttons to select a sub-menu and press ENTER to make a selection.
Use PAGE and NAV buttons to get around, VALUE and knobs A–Eto make changes.
Setting changes under SETUP never need to be stored. All changes take effect immediately.
Press HOME at any time to return home.
Use these links for instant access to the Setup menu topics in this manual:
THE SETUP MENU
SETUP
Foot Controllers Section 13
Global Settings Page 112
I/O Page 114
IR Capture Section 14
MIDI/Remote Page 117
Utilities Page 120

4
1 INTRODUCTION
Perhaps the best and most flexible way to enjoy your Axe-Fx III is through a full-range system such as Studio
Monitors, a high-quality PA, or full range cabinets designed specically for guitar. All of the factory presets are
designed for this type of setup.
The Axe-Fx III is incredibly flexible, however, and many other types of setups are supported, including those
which integrate with tube amps, USB recording, 3rd-party outboard equipment, and much more.
Find additional rig diagrams in Section 4.
The most basic setup instructions appear below:
WHY FULL RANGE?
A Full-Range Flat Response (“FRFR”) system aims to reproduce the entire audio spectrum without compromise.
In comparison, most guitar speakers are narrow range, with no ability to accurately reproduce extended lows
and highs. A 1×12 open-back combo is never going to sound like a 4×12 stack. In comparison, full-range
flat response studio monitors, high-quality PA speakers, and FRFR speakers designed specically for guitar
should be able to reproduce anything you play through them.
qBegin with all level knobs turned down.
Connect your guitar to the front or
rear Instrument input (Input 1).
The Axe-Fx III is also perfect for
bass and other instruments.
wConnect Output 1 to your mixer, studio
monitors, audio interface, PA system, full-
range speakers, power amp inputs, etc.
• For a mono rig, use Out 1 Left.
• For optional stereo, connect Out 1 Right.
• Use XLR outputs to connect to balanced
inputs, or use the 1/4" outputs when
connecting to unbalanced inputs.
• Use Humbuster cables with 1/4" outputs
to reduce hum from ground loops.
eTurn up the front panel OUT 1 knob and adjust the
level on your monitors as desired.
Explore factory presets by turning the VALUE wheel.
Select Scenes within a preset by using NAV Up/Down.
QUICK CONNECT GUIDE
INPUT
1
OUTPUT
1
Use
Out 1 L
for
Mono
FRFR speakers, Studio Monitors
Audio Interface or Mixer
Add
Out 1 R
for
Stereo