The Axe-FX III Has One MAJOR Problem (non metal player’s review)
Check out my brand new Axe-FX preset pack here (works for Axe-FX III FM 3 & FM9)
https://www.rhettshull.com/store/rhetts-amps-v1-for-axe-fx-iii-fm9
The Axe-FX III has become one of my favorite pieces of gear over the last few years, but it has one huge flaw in its design that can overshadow everything else thats great about the unit. Heres my review of the Axe-FX III.
Check out my brand new video course Fretboard Fundamentals here:
https://rhettshullguitarcourses.com/p/ff
————————————
SIGN UP FOR THE INNER CIRCLE HERE:
https://rhettshullguitarcourses.com/p/inner-circle
MY VIDEO COURSES:
Fretboard Fundamentals
https://rhettshullguitarcourses.com/p/ff
The Complete Nashville Number System video course
https://rhettshullguitarcourses.com/p/nashville-number-system
The Tone Course
https://rhettshullguitarcourses.com/p/the-tone-course
————————————
GEAR USED IN TODAY’S VIDEO:
Two Notes Torpedo Captor X
https://imp.i114863.net/c/2330848/937020/11319?prodsku=TorpedoCapX16&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sweetwater.com%2Fstore%2Fdetail%2FTorpedoCapX16–two-notes-torpedo-captor-by-reactive-loadbox-di-and-attenuator-16-ohm&intsrc=PUI2_7338
Mogami Gold Guitar Cable
https://imp.i114863.net/c/2330848/937020/11319?prodsku=GoldInst10&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sweetwater.com%2Fstore%2Fdetail%2FGoldInst10–mogami-gold-instrument-10-straight-to-straight-instrument-cable-10-foot&intsrc=PUI2_7338
MY HOME STUDIO SETUP:
Universal Audio Apollo X4
https://imp.i114863.net/c/2330848/937020/11319?prodsku=ApolloX4HE&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sweetwater.com%2Fstore%2Fdetail%2FApolloX4HE–universal-audio-apollo-x4-heritage-edition-12×18-thunderbolt-3-audio-interface-with-uad-dsp&intsrc=PUI2_7338
Universal Audio 4-710D Mic Pre and Compressor
https://imp.i114863.net/2rW9L7
Yamaha HS7 Studio Monitors
https://imp.i114863.net/c/2330848/937020/11319?prodsku=HS7&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sweetwater.com%2Fstore%2Fdetail%2FHS7–yamaha-hs7-6.5-inch-powered-studio-monitor-black&intsrc=PUI2_7338
Sennheiser MKH416 Shotgun Mic
https://imp.i114863.net/c/2330848/937020/11319?prodsku=MKH416&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sweetwater.com%2Fstore%2Fdetail%2FMKH416–sennheiser-mkh-416-shotgun-condenser-microphone&intsrc=PUI2_7338
————————————
MY PRESETS & PROFILES:
Line 6 HX Stomp Presets
https://www.rhettshull.com/helix/hx-stomp-rhetts-amps-v2
Line 6 Helix & Helix LT Presets
https://www.rhettshull.com/helix
Kemper Profiles
https://www.rhettshull.com/kemperprofiles/
Impulse Responses (Helix, Kemper, Iridium & AxeFx)
https://www.rhettshull.com/helix/rhetts-cabs-impulse-response-pack
————————————
MY SECOND CHANNEL:
Rhett Shull Studio
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTb6eUG0lZdmabwro3221LA
MY DISCORD SERVER:
https://discord.gg/hMTvsRb
DEACON KNIGHT (my band):
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3EU0NCcKOZc4OhO7KMaRjA
————————————
THE BACKSTAGE JOURNAL PODCAST:
(apple) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/backstage-journal-podcast-with-rhett-shull/id1463640779
(spotify) https://open.spotify.com/show/1q8Rrv42WhyOgk080LZOe2?si=Nl3sRiMFQTaurIGfn71QtQ
————————————
Business Enquiries
Support@RhettShull.com
SHIPPING ADDRESS:
5805 State Bridge Road
Suite G90
Johns Creek Ga
30097
————————————
My Video Rig (affiliate links)
CAMERA:
-Sony A7III (affiliate link)
https://amzn.to/2NDqJW2
LENSES:
-Sony 24-105mm f4 (affiliate link)
https://amzn.to/3svZuLZ
-Sigma 35mm f1.4 (affiliate link)
https://amzn.to/37M01S6
-Sigma 50mm f1.4 (affiliate link)
https://amzn.to/3dM4FDm
LIGHTS:
-Neewer LED Panel Bi Color (affiliate link)
https://amzn.to/3kzkb73
SOUND:
-Sennheiser MKH 416 Shotgun Mic (affiliate link)
https://imp.i114863.net/c/2330848/937020/11319?prodsku=MKH416&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sweetwater.com%2Fstore%2Fdetail%2FMKH416–sennheiser-mkh-416-shotgun-condenser-microphone&intsrc=PUI1_7338
-Universal Audio Apollo X4 (affiliate link)
https://imp.i114863.net/c/2330848/937020/11319?prodsku=ApolloX4HE&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sweetwater.com%2Fstore%2Fdetail%2FApolloX4HE–universal-audio-apollo-x4-heritage-edition-12×18-thunderbolt-3-audio-interface-with-uad-dsp&intsrc=PUI1_7338
-Zoom H6 Handy Recorder (affiliate link)
https://imp.i114863.net/c/2330848/937020/11319?prodsku=H6Blk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sweetwater.com%2Fstore%2Fdetail%2FH6Blk–zoom-h6-all-black-handy-recorder&intsrc=PUI1_7338
#AxeFX #III #MAJOR #Problem #metal #players #review
Originally posted by UCCJ56k8nBeqWLoxNa6DToAQ at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jq7oo0_jWes
Have an old Axe Fx Ultra and there you can only sync over midi on a computer, and since midi-protocols are pretty bad I cant use it propperly most of the time.. that makes the system hard to use and enjoy I agree.
After you tweaked the stock Mal-38 pre-set you save it to a different name corrects you still have have the original stock amp?
Pod go is all I’ll ever need
Rushed review and he is clueless. THUMBS DOWN
I love the honest review-
I really wanted one but it’s just the price that put me off. I tried a friends and tried another friends helix line 6, and for all the extra money the FX III, as good as it is, just isn’t worth all the extra cash for me personally.
The UI is as easy as it could be to do everything from the front panel but if you have difficulty with anymore knobs than a phase 90 you'r going to struggle.
How thick is the book that comes with the AXE-FX III?
Solid review. I think the most useful thing that the others don't have that the Fractal has that has a huge impact on dialing in tone is the graphic eq on every amp. I use Quad Cortex because it accurately models my existing amps and is easy to use. I don't care that much about reverbs. A little goes a long way. A Timmy would be cool and I'm looking forward to the doubler, other than that, I'm not missing anything.
I'm always surprised when you say you love the line 6 Helix. I'm a similar player to yourself ( edge of breakup, and clean tones predominantly) and I own the Axe FX 2, the Kemper and tge Quad Cortex. The only one I really dislike is the Helix. It's very unconvincing to me for authentic guitar tones in my opinion. Love your show and aside ftom the Helix I generally agree with everything you say. Keep up the great work and thanks…
I bring a laptop when I play out with it. Never used the front interface. You're not supposed to I'd wager. 😉 Digital modelers have software interfaces.
One? It has several problems. No granulars. No good fuzz. Terrible user interface. Only useable via computer edit program. Freezes, crashes, software problems (currently my filter block is broken). TONS of problems, but worshipped religiously by zealots.
Does it matter if you use a Mac or a PC with the Axe?
"In a tube amplifier, biasing is the process of setting the voltage that determines the tube's operating conditions. Bias excursion occurs when this voltage deviates from its intended value, often due to changes in temperature or component aging. This can result in distortion, decreased efficiency, or even damage to the tubes if it's not properly managed.
"Musicians and technicians often monitor and adjust bias settings to ensure the tubes operate within their optimal range, balancing factors like tube lifespan, tone, and reliability. Proper biasing is crucial for achieving the desired sound and performance from a tube amplifier." Chat GPT ????
I have used the Helix, Kemper, Ampero Stomp 2, and the Quad Cortex. The Quad Cortex is the best in UI. I think it sounds better than the fractal fm9 too. I’ve been tweaking too much on the fractal fm9 which leaves me frustrated with the option paralysis. I’m thinking about selling mine soon.
I don’t gig at all. I am a songwriter with a one room studio. In a few months I will only have space for an apartment size desk with a rack for recording. As a result, I am re-evaluating all of my gear
I’ve owned a Kemper non-powered rack since 2015. I love its profile’s sound quality. The current studio effects and stomp pedals are also great. The fact that Kemper has done many, many free firmware upgrades over my time of ownership makes me love the platform too. But I have some issues with the Kemper. I won’t sell it, but I am looking at an FM9 MK2 Turbo to augment my setup.
The FM9 has half of the DSP of the Axe FX3 Turbo, which is more than adequate for what I need it for. While I plan on using its amp and cab models to augment the profiles I own, much of what I want the FM9 for is as a multi-effects box. The analog and digital routing on the FM9 will allow me to set up a combination of a 4 cable + wet/dry/wet rig. I will also be able to easily integrate my UAD2 Apollo powered plugins with the FM9 by routing my Apollo X6 interface into a stereo loop I can create on the Fractal.
I loved your review. You nailed my need for a pro multi-effect and modeling platform in a small space with unreal flexibility. The fact is that I prefer to use an editor for sound design regardless of how the on-unit user interface is designed. And I’ve been pouring over the user manuals for all of the Fractal units for a long time, so I have a pretty good understanding of how the block structure works and how to create scenes and presets. Frankly, even with a thorough pre-reading of the manual, I expect that I will still have a learning curve to overcome using the editor to create my own settings.
Your frustration made me laugh/cry. I own an AxeFXIII and a Headrush Pedalboard. The Headrush does not have the depth of sound, but it is damn good for a live gig and it can be tweaked with your foot if necessary. Meanwhile, the AxeFX never leaves the studio.
Really nice review thanks
So let me get the straight:
You'll carry several guitars and the AXE FXIII to a gig, which has to be 70+lbs and and ungodly amount of money based upon your taste in guitars…
… but you won't carry the 2lb laptop to make life easy.
Millennial. ????
But you'll carry the 20lb rack of vintage pedal and wonder where the power is coming from.
Try carrying your bass players 8×10 Ampeg cab upstairs that weighs a million pounds, OK about 170.
Kemper and QC aren’t really “modelers”.
They are “Profilers”.
A rather big distinction.
I always love your playing bro. I was a metal head for most of my life. Still am. But as a guitarist I love it all.
Thank you for confirming what I've been saying all along. The user interface is unusable. It's a device designed by audio engineers for other audio engineers who happen to play guitar. It is not designed for guitarists. This issue infects the entire Fractal line. Their products have not received a single second of usability testing.
The interface isn't bad at all. In fact, it's pretty intuitive.
I am planning on getting the axe fx 3 as soon as I can!!!
Great review !, anyway I think fractal sounds much better than Helix or Kemper
I had the same usability issues with the Axe Fx 2. It is a great unit that sounds great, but after spending 2 years on it, frustrated, I sold it. Going for a Helix this time around. I still have a Kemper. Shoot out with those two begins soon.
Than you for this very objective review
All of this stuff sounds so similar at this point, that everyone is just splitting hairs to justify spending so much. It's all so ridiculous.
Let me come on your show
Complete bs why is fractal used by Steve Vai, Def lep, Metallica, Steven stevens and countless others? Lol complete bs
My Fractal FM3 is the best piece of gear I own. Far more problems if you go the real amps and pedals. Why would user interface matter in a live setting, who would be designing tones during a live show? Some pedals like the Headrush don't even have a desktop editor, you have to bend over for 2hrs putzing around with the pedal. With that said, yes, they should improve the UI when the launch the Axe FX 4. But I wouldn't call it a major problem, more like a minor annoyance.
My big issue is that for a third of the price you get like 95% of the quality and a better user interface. But yeah if you are a pro and have nothing to do but tweak your stuff for 3 months, it's probably the best thing you can get.
Rewatching this video and evaluating whether I should buy a Helix or this Axe FX III.
Not quite sure still.
The Helix sounds like an amazing deal even though is the oldest of most modellers at the moment.
The Axe FX III is 1000€ more expensive than the Helix is and the capabilities are similar.
Still undecided about it!
Great video and insight on the unit however.
It’s a shame that something so good is still so painful to use.
The user interface was indeed a hurdle in the beginning. I watched the pleasantly surprising rise of line6, the kemper, and recently the quad cortex….all sprinkled in with the massive progress NI guitar-rig has made in the computer realm. None of it mattered once I got my axefx3. The ships had been burnt. There was no way back. I had wanted it for too long. It was made by man(allegedly), therefore it's complexity can be understood and I am glad that there is a computer editing program…but you don't need it. And once you learn the basic navigation principles of the unit's layout…it becomes less of a negative and way more of a positive selling point. All can be accomplished from the device panel and while I do agree it takes some dedication and patience, I don't think it's as big a downside as you make it out to be. I also wanted this for over a decade so just looking at it inspires me. And I mean this with all due respect as a fan of yours for years.
It is almost 2024. Would ANYONE be still be in the market for a Kemper ? ????
Hey Rhett ! ! Great video, as usual. I agree with you 100% ! ! If I'm going to pour so much money into an effects unit such as the fractal, I want a unit that is ready to go and extremely user friendly. The reason I haven't bought one of these is because of the huge learning curve that must be conquered before getting the sweet tones they're capable of getting. The navigating through the myriad settings that's also required to acheive a targeted tone becomes too frustrating.
I also believe that Fractal is shooting itself in the foot by making these almost unobtainable effects units. I would think that if they really wanted tocapture a bigger piece of the market, then they would adjust their availability to a wider range of players by creating units that are within a more affordable price point.
Thanks again Rhett, I'm sure glad I've fond your page a years ago. Great content ! ! !
I have a kemper.
Based on your video.
I'll buy one of these axe fx too to enhance my range of sounds.
Ref interface.
Surely one wouldn't want or need to fiddle with adjusting presets on stage?
Set them up at home with software interface. No probs.
Spoilt for choice ! You could end up searching for that sound and miss the soul of making music .
Own a FM3 Mark IIbTurbo: Best sounding, easy to deal with software, a touchscreen would keep me want to touch it, instaed of playing, so the little more difficult tweaking on the screen on the FM3 is something positive to me. And the best is for me the huge community around Fractal and the fact that one will feel updated with these units for the coming 10 years. After going through almost everything on the market, I got the FM3. Now I play more and tweak less. Took a couple of presets, adjusted to my likings and since then I am just practicing. And thats what we all should do more, IMHO. ????
Looks like a dual cassette player….lol
I have been using Fractal gear exclusively since 2007. I was on the original Ultra wait list and today I use the AX8 both live and recording.
Problem for non metal players….no problem.
I got my first taste of modeling in 2003 with a used Pod 2.0 that I picked up at Guitar Center, I was blown away by it. Later I got a XT Live and then a Line 6 Amplifi 150. In 2021 I got an HX Stomp and I like it a lot, but I find myself wanting more. I have thought about a Helix or possibly a Fractal product, but I'd like to test out a Fractal before I decide. You are right about the Line 6 interface, it is easy to use and you can tweak until the cows come home. After this video i want to try a Fractal, but I'm concerned about the UI, watching lots of videos about the device, your thoughts make sense. It's as if the software is where you get the most out of the device and then you just use it like with some sort of foot controller. Thanks for your thoughts.
You can actually get by in guitar life with an FM3, or Line6 stomp! (Watch John Nathan Cordy). The guitar player is the most important part. That said, of the Fractal products, the FM9 is probably the best "gigging" Fractal product. Sounds and Presets sound the best of anything by a margin, but they are the best. The UI is only slightly better than the Axe III. The level of tweakability is for nerds, but good on them! If you want ability to profile or capture, then get the Kemper stage. QC is not ready yet.
That little blurb at 11:03 is TASTY!!
The front panel on the legacy and 2 models seemed to be easier to use. I replaced them both with the fm9 and I don’t use the hardware panel nearly at all save the footswitches. It is confusing. The software was a great.
I don’t have a fractal fxlll yet, but I would love to have one. But I do have a line 6 Helix
and I have a tone lab to. And I have a idea to connect the tonelab to the Helix. I think
I can get some very unique sounds. I’ll let you know when I do it.
Thats why I will buy the fm9, it has the things that the rack is missing in terms of portability and price ????????♂️ and its the same sound and power (almost)