Absolutely! There are MAJOR differences here! The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements. Cheers :)
I'm indifferent. I love my AX8, and the FM3 does seem to have a warmer and smoother response, but I think the AX8 can be dialed in to achieve the same tone...I think the FM3 will be a great addition to anyone's arsenal, as well as the AX8. Thanks Frank, this was an educational demonstration. With that, Leon Todd is on tour right now with his new FM3, and he say's it sounds amazing. I wonder if his comparison will mirror yours. "Tour day one. Lost all my clothes at the airport. Had a great show at Whole Lotta Love in Brunswick. FM3 sounds amazing. I'm tired." - Leon Todd
Here is the difference. The new stuff is dialed-in and eqed much better than the previous generations. However, you can tweak the older units to sound very very close to the newest ones.
I own an AX-8. I bought an FM3, and sold it after a few weeks. The FM3 arguably sounded a little better, but the AX-8 can be adjusted for that. What the FM3 lacked couldn't be made up for...the ability to make quick changes on the fly on stage in gain, tone, volume, etc. I'd buy a more capable AX-8 in a minute. I don't need an FM3 and another 5-700 dollars worth of switches to make the unit do what I already have in the AX-8. Also, no one is leaving your gigs over your guitar rig sound...maybe your talent, but not the patches. I'd argue most couldn't tell (or care less). Just my two cents. YMMV.
You're absolutely right.It's not easy switching to a new device. I play my AX8 every day at music school. It's just great to use. Still, after adjusting my patches, I find the FM3 sounds a bit better. Whatever. Enjoy your AX8. Cheers Frank :)
@@FrankSteffenMueller I know how to run the FM3...I'm an engineer. The AX-8 has a full complement of amp-like control knobs that allow instant access. The same functionality on the FM3 is under one or more levels of control screens. For example, if I notice my sound is more bassy than the room needs, I can fix it in the middle of a song with the AX-8. I said the FM3 sounds a little better, but the loss of control makes it unwieldy for me. Whatever indeed.
Gotta laugh at all these people thinking you intentionally made the FM3 sound better. I just upgraded from the AX8 to the FM3 and what a fucking upgrade it is. Under the fingers it responds like a tube amp and cabinet in a way that the AX8 doesn't quite nail. Gonna keep both, making the AX8 my live rig and FM3 for recording. Thank you for showing me the way. 🤘😎🎸
Yeah Glenn Baby I am getting an FM-3 for extra effects and a midi pedal for my Kemper. Kemper remote will sell for close to the price of an FM-3 lol. Add a couple of Boss FS-7 for 4 more footswitches and DONE! The AX-8 sounded drastically different: thinner and less body than the FM-3. A guy above Jordan Holt posted a link to a SoundCloud comparing his FM3 to his AX8 and whilst he thinks they sound similar on studio-quality monitors or phones the same deal. FM3 DESTROYS an AX-8!
I'm sorry I changed the Vol and Treble knob from time to time. I am so used to it and I do it all the time to make the sound more pleasant for my ears. Of course it was a stupid mistake. I didn't do it knowingly and I didn't want to fake the result. But honestly - Glenn you know that - you are a pro - what happens if you turn the volume of the guitar from 10 to 9? And what happens when you turn your tone control from 10 to 8? Does your guitar get less bass? By the way... my guitar has a treble bleed - that means it sounds the same at any volume. The story with the different pot settings is ridiculous. It can't make the AX8 sound thinner. Anyway - it was a stupid mistake.
Ok honestly everyone- both are great units. I guarantee if anyone was blindfolded and were told to tell the two apart; no one would be able to be 100% certain. With fractal, i don’t think we need to worry about the quality of tones. Both are floor units so i think the question should be on its functionality, durability, dsp power (my Ax8 overloads on me sometimes and automatically disengages my reverb). Thanks for the video Frank
Some I preferred the FM3 version and others I liked the AX8 better. I think both sound like great options though. Both could produce great results on their own or in a band setting.
I dont think my ax8 has ever sounded that thin? Not meaning to cast dispersions upon the video maker here, but something has to be set weird in his AX8? Maybe he was recording direct using the FM3, then reamping to the ax8, and something in the chain is cutting off a lot of the low end?
He said in a comment further down that he just compared factory settings for both. Pretty stupid concept for a video, I'd say. Good fluff marketing for the FM3 I guess.
Michael, I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. I also believe that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
@@bensmith8240 As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one.
@@andresludmer Dude, I played my AX8 for 5 years now - live and for recording sessions all over the world. It was and still is a trusted friend all these years. And it always sounded fantastic. The comparison with the raw amps was unsatisfactory in terms of sound (both units) but many people asked for it. I'm making a comparison video with my own sounds right now. The difference is much less, but still there - same tendency - the AX8 sounds thinner. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound nearly the same - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
I hate the haters!! The vídeo is awesome. The playing is fantastic, it shows how great both units sound without tweaking, and it shows how much fractal has improved. I mean, not only sounds warmer and fuller without tweaking anything, but you can tell that the fm3 is more dynamic and has more depth (little wing sounded amazing in the FM3). And it is suppoused to be like this, is the next gen unit, and the AxeFX3 has like 12 firmware updates already, so the fm3 is suppoused to sound better than the ax8. I mean, you could all hear that Quantum sounded way better than previous firmware, but if you have a new hardware and more than 10 firmware updates, then the difference is that he don't make them sound the same and the vídeo is useless???? Come on... Personally, I don't have any fractal unit, I thought that they sounded great but something was a little off. The FM3 to me sounds just right and it is a lot less money than the AxeFX3. I will definetly buy one. Anyway, GREAT VIDEO, GREAT PLAYING, and both units are FANTASTIC. Thank you for taking the time to do this!
I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models and used the same Factory Cab on all sounds. The sound was NOT tweaked before or afterwards! It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
I am going to get the AX8. Digital amp modeling isn't my focus. I think it sounds great. If I was more into the modeling. I could see getting the FM3. Brand new isn't always that much better.
@@JRP3music the AX8 is still a great unit. But there are no updates anymore. No firmware updates and no updates on the editor. At least the editor (AX8 Edit) should work on your computer. Cheers 🎸🤘❤️
Poor guy takes his time to make a video to compare and he get jumped on for “ volume and tone knob” conspiracy? Go by the 2 units and decide yourselves ? Give the guy a break.
😅No break for sure.😜. More FM3 vids soon. If you are interested in AX8 or AX-FX2 vids with great sound watch my channel. There are a bunch of vids with those amazing units. Cheers man #staysafe
I'm sorry I changed the Vol and tone button from time to time. I'm so used to it and I do it all the time. But honestly - what happens when you turn your guitar volume from 10 to 9? And what happens if you turn your tone pot from 10 to 8? Does your guitar get less bass? BTW...my guitar has a treble bleed - that means that it sounds the same at any volume. As I already mentioned in the description, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
Finally someone that can play real jazz and not fake metal head jazz. Besides that, this video is definitely bias. The bass, master and low res are cut like crazy on the ax8.
Hi Craig, yesterday I uploaded a new vid comparing the Fractal Audio FM3 vs AX8 using my own custom presets to sound as realistic as possible! th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
Thanks dude. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
I'm going to say that there is no way the FM3 sounds this much better than the AX8. The AX8 has almost no lower end and the volume is slightly lower. Something else is going on here - maybe there's a global EQ difference or something.
Dude, I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models and used the same Factory Cab on all sounds. The sound was NOT tweaked before or afterwards! Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
I think the difference is that the default settings on the FM3 are much better than the AX8. You can probably dial the AX8 to sound much closer than it does here, but the FM3 is just "right there" because of the experience they've built up in the mean time with these models. And yes, I was surprised too, and I think a lot of it is Frank "feeling" the FM3 much more. It just sounds spot-on for the licks.
@@joristimmermans5058 Exactly. It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
@@GlennDeLauneOfficial I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models and used the same Factory Cab on all sounds. The sound was NOT tweaked before or afterwards! It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
Nice, thanks for the comparison ! I would also love to see you try and create the same tones with both so we could see if the difference is in the factory presets or in the machine itself. I would not be surprised to hear an Axe FX 1 create a very similar tone than an Axe FX 3, I had an Axe FX Ultra back in the days and it needed more tweaking but damn that thing could sound great.
For sure you can adjust the presets of all the Fractal Audio units to sound closer - that’s what my new video is about. But to be honest I think the algorithms have changed significantly and everything improved a lot over the last 4 years. In my opinion the sound of the Axe-Fx3 and FM3 is way more natural, dynamic and 3D than earlier units. Here's my new vid comparing the AX8 with the FM3 using my own patches and make both units sound as close as possible. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Yes you can try to match all the new stuff. After all the years the new Fractal models are way better in sound and possibilities. But the AX8 is a great unit anyway. Rock on!
It sounds like the EQs are set different. But the underlying model quality sounds the same. Imagine if they came out with a new, better thing and it sounded the same as the old thing? They just added more resonance and bass to the FM3.
I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
This comparison really shows the improvement in modeling and conversion btw the two units.. FM9 here I come. I'll keep my AX8 . But, the Fender Models are more realistic on the FM3/FM9 to my ears. And, I'm primarily a Fender amp Player.
@@FrankSteffenMueller Youre too kind, Frank. The FM POUNDS that 8. I heard the Aint talkin', but what about later, more saturated 80s...Skid Row ADA MP-1 sound, GNR Jubilee cranked, VH Diver Down chorused out tone?
in some cases the guitars volume knob is in a different position, also you must consider that most of the tone shaping comes from the cab simulation. To my ears in general the preamp distortion and power amp breakup sound nearly identical. if something is brittle then there is a control in the ax 8/fm3 to deal with it, you also have tone controls on your guitar
I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well (and it's not the vol or tone knob on my guitar...😂😅😂. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. But there are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements. Cheers, Frank
If this was a twelve round boxing match it would go to the judges. No clear knock out punches. I really like the FM3 on most tones but on some I really like the AX8. I do agree with the AX8 being a little too sharp but nothing that can’t be dialed out. Good work on the diversity of your style.
I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. But there are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements. Cheers, Frank
I sold my AX8 after 2 month because it sound too thin and cold to me (compared to my tube amp). Now I hear it again - thin and cold AX8. New FM3 sounds much warmer with bigger body. Finaly a good sounding digit-machine. Maybe I going to buy a Fractal again...
Frank Steffen Mueller vor 9 Stunden Dude, first of all: I love my AX8. It's a fantastic unit. The overall sound depends extremely on the cab you use. In addition, there are so many parameters that allow you to adjust the AX8 to sound 99% like your tube amp. Anyway - The FM3 feels and sounds more natural to me. It's warmer and fatter than the AX8. It sounds like the Axe-Fx III and has all those stunning ambient effects. Here are some MAJOR differences between those units: The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements. IMHO for $999.- it's a bargain. Have you ever tried the 4-cable-method with the AX8 and your Tube amp? Thats absolutely killer - best of both worlds. Cheers, Frank
Are you sure those IRs are the same, i.e. Fractal may have changed the IR between units? Or did they change the IR engine so the same IR sounds different? Which IR did you use? Could you try a third party IR, same file and settings into both units? If anything I have the problem my AX8 is too warm sounding and I need to add some 4 and 8K. Don't recognize this at all.
People just wrote their opinions and that's okay.. The comparison with the raw amps was unsatisfactory in terms of sound (both units) but a lot of people have asked for this exact video. I made another comparison video with my own sounds. The difference is much less, but still there - same tendency - the AX8 sounds thinner. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound nearly the same - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
I played (and still playing at the music school) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. There are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about: th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
Ax8 sounds here like through 1x12 greenback, while FM3 sounds like a 4x12 with v30. Ax8 owners can be happier here because the solution isn't already expensive.
Jordi, I played my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what this video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
@@FrankSteffenMueller kind words Frank, thank you. I'm the new one because of you, this quality videos make me thinkf in sold all my tube amps, pedals and all stuff that reminds me the vintage way of thinking, that old right way of being musician making real music burning tubes. Anyway, both worlds can be friends together, i know that, but choose between them already is the real pathos of any guitar player i guess.
I can't afford an FM3 even used while I can find AX-8's used within my budget. Would you recommend an AX-8 at this point even considering it's Fractal Audio's older technology?
Thomas, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. I also believe that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
@@FrankSteffenMueller I have DI double track in DAW. Want to process it with external hardware. Kemper can't do this (it accept only 1 channel). AFAIK FM3 can do this but both channels will process by the same amp and cab. Right?
@@andivax I think reamping 2 tracks at the same time doesn't make sense because the CPU power is too low for that. Why do you want to do this at the same time and not one by one?
@@FrankSteffenMueller because I often have guitar double tracks (DI) and want to quickly change the sound. i can do this using software like TH-U. But interested in Axe Fx. May be fx2 or fx3 can do this? It has enough power, right?
@@andivax I know what you are saying. The Axe Fx II cannot do this, nor can the AX8 or the FM3. The Axe Fx III can though. You would set up two separate signal chains in the same preset, set your ins and outs and reamp. I think the Axe FX III can theoretically run 4 chains at once limited by processor power.
This seems strange to me because the difference is massive here but Leon Todd did a similar comparison between the AX8 and the Axe III and I could hardly hear any difference at all. The AX8 sounds really thin here. Not sure about this.
Hey Seth, yesterday I uploaded a new vid comparing the Fractal Audio FM3 vs AX8 using my own custom presets to sound as realistic as possible! th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
Well, that comparison is kind of outdated considering how many changes the III's firmware and amp modelling has gone through since then. It's well and truly possible now that the latest firmware architecture on the Ares and the last update on the AX8/Axe Fx II are completely different in how they sound and play.
Saarang Narayan I get that but still hard to believe that large of an improvement in a year through updates. These companies wanna make you think you need the latest and greatest. They are in the business of making money.
To me the fm3 sounds a lot more full bodied in the majority of the the amps, but can be misconstrued as some ax8 sound a little more open with a bit more sparkle in some of the cleaner tones.
In this comparison, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. I also believe that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
Hey Frank, hast du die gleichen IRs verwendet? Das FM3 klingt immer viel basslastiger. Bei anderen Tests im Netz ist der Unterschied zwischen dem FM3 und dem AX8 viel geringer.
Ich war auch über den Unterschied im Sound überrascht. Wie ich bereits erwähnt habe, habe ich nur die Factory Amp Models geladen und für alle Sounds das gleiche Factory Cab verwendet. Der Sound wurde weder vorher noch nachher verändert! Es ist natürlich offensichtlich, dass sich die Algorithmen in den letzten 4 Jahren erheblich verändert/verbessert haben. Nur so kann ich mir den massiven Unterschied erklären. Sicherlich kann man die Presets beider Geräte so einstellen, dass sie ziemlich ähnlich klingen - darum geht es in diesem Video. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Ich liebe mein AX8. Ich habe damit die ganze Welt bereist und extrem viel damit gespielt. Inzwischen ist es allerdings so, dass sich durch die ,massive Weiterentwicklung der Algorithmen (Cygnus-Modelling) die neuen Geräte klanglich deutlich abheben. Ich werde demnächst einen Vergleich AX8 vs FM9 machen und hoffe, dass man das entsprechend hört. LG Frank
To get the audio signal into the computer you need an audio interface, right? All modern audio interfaces today are of high quality. The signal /sound keeps the same. Cheers, Frank
My somewhat empirical engineer brain was considering this comparison and comments. In this case/ comparison, and given the same (it seems) perception of small differences, what might be useful is to put white noise through both (at nominal guitar signal level) and use an RTA (real-time analyzer) to see what the general frequency response looks like. Yes, it's not the same as a guitar signal, but would give a pragmatic and realistic visual of what the actual and general frequency response is across the audio spectrum. Just a thought. Perception is only that. Measurement tells the real story.
@@FrankSteffenMueller Please let us know what the measured difference turns out to be. Re: noise source type. Pink noise may also be used in this measurement, but has a defined rolloff of 3db per octave from about 3Khz and up (I could be wrong there) and pink noise is more commonly used as the source signal to do equalization on speaker systems. White noise is essentially flat from 20Hz to 20kHz. Since it sounds like everyone feels the likely difference is in the area below that 3Khz point (ie. in the low mid and low frequency areas) the difference in actual test signal/ noise type may be of no consequence. An audio sweep generator would also give a linear result but not as easily displayed graphically . I'm curious about the result, assuming the settings are identical.
The AX8 is the older unit. Still great. The FM3 is the new version. The sound is way better! Both units are all-in-one stomp controllers. The FM3 is smaller and has less buttons. But it's extremely versatile. You can add another foot controller too. The FM3 is awesome!
@@FrankSteffenMueller tnx for the information 👌. So you have to buy extra stomp controllers. I see. Qe need the most usefull and easier, lighter system to move around etc. Whats the most usefull nowadays? 🤔 🙏🏻
@@dr.franciscotorresmarquezc7352 For me the best sounding and most useful unit is the FM3! It's. super small and light and you can switch everything with the integrated 3 foot switches.
Great video! Unfortunately, quite bad for me: just wanted to get a used AX8 and be done with decades of pedals / multiFX / direct recording struggle. With digital, the sound improvement never ends, and my budget can't follow lol!
Dude, the AX8 is a perfect piece of unit. Sounds extremely good and is versatile as hell. But you can't stop progress and the Fractal guys are working hard. The newer models have way better effects and more realistic amp modeling. Just try them both and decide by yourself.
This sounds a lot to me like the eq'ing was off. I doubt there was an intentional alteration here, but I think it skews the judgement - the AX8 doesn't normally have a thin and lifeless tone as is suggested here.
Terry, I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
Thanks for doing this. As far as you can tell from YT audio, it sounds like the AX8 is thinner, brighter and harsher than the FM3. Is that the case in the room there? Just added my name to the waiting list after watching your videos here.
Frank Steffen Mueller exactly the description I had in mind when listening to your video. Surprised how much better it sounds, I really don’t see how the axe fx 4 could improve much more. Fantastic playing too!
I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models and used the same Factory Cab on all sounds. The sound was NOT tweaked before or afterwards! It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
Dude, I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. I also believe that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
@Infonator1 The Looper block allows you to create multi-layered looped audio performances in real time. The looper is stereo and features “undo” capability to remove the last recording or overdub. The maximum looping time is 120 seconds. You have these buttons: Play, Record, Erase, Undo/Redo, Once, Reverse. If the Looper Block exists in the different presets, you can also change the presets and the loop will continue to play (e.g. recording Preset #1 SynthPad - then change to preset #2 and overdub some clean guitar chords - then switch to preset #3 and play solo with your lead sound, etc. As far as I know, there is no way to save loops. But Fractal Audio might make it possible in a future firmware update. There is a USB port for a USB memory stick. This can be used for backing tracks. But it could also be used to save loops.
can you clarify the whole chain how you record, it seems to me your recordings have better quality then others on yotube reviewing fm3. how do you record ?
Sure. Signal chain is: Guitar into FM3 - FM3 into input 1/2 of my UA Apollo interface - into my DAW - mixing and mastering the final music. Hope that helps. Cheers :)
The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The FM3 sounds more real, open and 3D and it has all the new and/or improved blocks of the Axe-Fx III. The FM3 is awesome! Cheers, Frank ;)
Dude, I played my AX8 for 5 years now - live and for recording sessions all over the world. It was and still is a trusted friend all these years. And it always sounded fantastic. Now, after years of development, there's something new - the FM3. The same new algorithms like the Axe-Fx3. Same factory cabs. 34 blocks (AX8 has 25). Slightly more power than the AX8. Smaller and lighter. It's just that the FM3 sounds better (more natural, warmer, rounder, fuller. more 3D). That's the development. The comparison with the raw amps was unsatisfactory in terms of sound (both units) but many people asked for it. I'm making a comparison video with my own sounds right now. The difference is much less, but still there - same tendency - the AX8 sounds thinner. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound nearly the same - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
4 ปีที่แล้ว +2
What does "default factory amp models" mean? Load the amp, don't touch any controls and go with it? That just represents what someone at Fractal thought it would be a decent baseline for that amp model I guess. If one sounds better than the other it doesn't really mean anything and it's certainly not the way I would use any modeler.
Exactly ...that's why it sounds like it sounds. That's what people were asking for. I'll post another video in a few days with my own sounds - sounds are way better on both units. Cheers :)
4 ปีที่แล้ว +1
@@FrankSteffenMueller Man, people ask the most strange things... :)
I love both units, but the new FM3 is killer! There are MAJOR differences here! The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements. Cheers :)
Dude its FM3 by a mile not even close and since the FM3 IS 50% AXEFX 3 but on the floor its winner winner chicken frickin dinner. Awesome playing bro. Of course everyone's eq settings are different but AX8 is too in your face with these settings.
I agree an it surprised me actually. I had an AxeFx2 for 7-8 years and it was a great piece of kit (as is the AX8) but the Fm3 sounded so much nicer in this clip. If it wasn't side by side or if it was in a band sense, the difference wouldn't be noticed as much, and also think the AX8 could be made to sound a lot close with EQ and same IR that the FM3 was using (assuming the FM3 ones are 'better').
Thanks dude! I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html But there are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements. Cheers, Frank
Sound is a matter of taste. I find these sounds quite usable. So far I preferred other units but the fm3 has a good form factor. But Fractal really should just rent their units. Sadly this unit will be discontinued in 3 or 4 years. As every unit.
@@FrankSteffenMueller Well, I would rather say it is business, sometimes disguised as progress. Human selling and buying psychology helps also a lot. Many fall in this trap. It would only be progress if older fractal units would not be "worse" (exaggeration but you get the point) which they are, obviously. No, I don't want to keep supposedly old and therefore "worse" digital amp modelling (again...exaggerating). I want 100% tube amp tone and feel right from the start and forever and not spend again and again thousands to get the next step towards 100% amp tone. I think you can have this, obviously, either by just buying analog gear or by going back 9 years and buying a Kemper. Seems that Kemper does not need that amp tone progress you are referring to and which I am talking about. Yes, even Kemper needs a whole other new stuff and features in the year 2020, I would say, but after almost 10 years of changing nothing at a same unit it would be more than justified now.
Don't be fooled guys, the only reason the AX8 is misrepresented in this video is because they want you to buy the new shinny thing of course. It's sponsored by Fractal btw, what do you expect!
Sergei, I played my AX8 for 4 years now - live and for recording sessions all over the world. It was and still is a trusted friend all these years. And it always sounded fantastic. The comparison with the raw amps was unsatisfactory in terms of sound (both units) but many people asked for it. Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. I also believe that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. I did a comparison video with my own sounds right now. The difference is much less, but still there - same tendency - the AX8 sounds thinner. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound nearly the same - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
I think that this is not a fair comparison. Factory presets are the worst face of the AX8; we all know that tweaking it properly the ax8 can sound better than any factory preset. I asume that there exists the comercial necesity of showing the brand new product better than the old one
I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. But there are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks, etc, etc...This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
For sure you can adjust the presets of the AX8 to sound closer - I did a video about that. But to be honest I think the algorithms have changed significantly and everything improved a lot over the last 4 years. In my opinion the sound of the Axe-Fx3, FM9 and FM3 is way more natural, dynamic and 3D than earlier units. Here's a vid comparing the AX8 with the FM3 using my own patches and make both units sound as close as possible. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
FM3 has a bit more dimension and depth, I suppose fits better in the mix. I sold my AX8,, want to buy either an AX8 or FM3 now only for recording purposes, considering the future updates I think FM3 is worth the extra money.
Aldo, there are no presets. It's just the factory amp block with no changes. I always used the same Factory cab/IR. Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. In this raw-blocks-video both devices do not sound very pleasant to me. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. But there are MAJOR differences between those units. The blocks are obviously not really identical - otherwise it would sound the same, right? The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
On paper...Are they not supposed to sound EXACTLY the same??. Its not like were dealing with variances in tubes or BIAS or voltage or anything....Its basically a machine reproducing the same thing with the same chip, assuming it is EXACTLY the same settings???? What am I missing here?
They both sound great and very similar, some amps sounded better on the FM3 and other on the AX8. Mostly sounds like EQ's are bit different, but I didn't play thought them to get the "feel" so it's difficult to really tell.
Hey Frank, great demo! Can the FM3 be used for effects only, like the FX8? I mean, with true bypass as well. Please do a “effects only” demo when possible! Rotary, whammy/pitch shifter, univibe, phaser and wah are some of my main interests. Another doubt is if the FM3 can “presetedly” insert my drive pedals into the signal chain without turning them off. Sorry for so much questions. Thanks in advance.
Yes the FM3 could be used for FX only. You have only 2 inputs for external fx or pedals. You can use them for inserting your fav. pedals (many guitarists are using the Eventide H9 in the loop of the FM3). Cheers ;)
There are MAJOR differences here! The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements. Cheers, Frank
Hallo Frank, wie immer ein astreines Video von Dir-bin Ja ABO Empfänger. Wie verarbeitest Du eigentlich die Einschränkungen? Ich selbst habe mich schon im März 2020 dafür entschieden, nicht SKYPE oder ZOOM oder sonstwas für meinen Unterricht zu benutzen. Jeder Kunde von mir bekommt ein exclusives Video, und die Leute sind zufrieden. Was ist aber z.B. mit Michael Schadt, der ja wahrscheinlich nicht in Unterricht gesetzt hat, weil ja Wendrsonn so erfolgreich ist? Noch ' ne Frage Richtung 70er: Weisst Du was über Ralf Dowedeit? Gut, hab jetzt so alles im allen ca. 110 Videos exclusiv produziert, meine Prognose lautet: 12.April, solange halten unsere fürsorglichen Gesetzgeber wahrscheinlich noch eine Schließung der Bereiche, die sie ja sowieso nicht berühren, für erforderlich. Friseure zu? Gruß von Ralph
Hi Ralph, allmählich geht mir/uns allen Corona ziemlich auf die Nerven. Viele sind erkrankt und auch an den Folgen verstorben. Bei vielen geht es um die Existenz. Alles sehr schrecklich. Bei mir ist es so, dass ich natürlich finanzielle Einbußen habe, allerdings alles meistens Online (Zoom, Skype) weiterläuft. Bei Micha ist das genauso - Wendersonn ist da nur ein kleines "Zubrot", dass jetzt natürlich fehlt. Von einer Band wie Wendrsonn kann man nicht existieren. Da sind die Gagen zu gering und die Auftritte viel zu wenig. Von Ralph weiß ich nur, dass er in Berlin lebt. Ich hffe sehr, dass wir Corona bald hinter uns lassen und wieder einen normalen Alltag haben. Friseur brauche ich nicht....hahaha. Alles Liebe
They sound very much the same, except for some parameter difference, like microphone type or position or something. I can't put a finger on it, especially not seeing the editor.... But, i was expecting more 'nuance' or detail in the FM3 tones, but the AX8 seems its match. When i had the AX8, it never sounded as 'thin' and small as this....
As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
Wow!! It’s clear that something is wrong with the AX8 setup. I own the AX8 and AFX3 but as far a there is a difference between both units, this is subtle to my ears in my home, more in the feeling and the airness, not like this video where the AX8 sounds anemic, almost like a pocket POD. If the FM3 is like a reduced version of the AFX3 I would expect to sound the same and that means differences over AX8 are minimal. My AX8 never sounded that bad and yes Ares is fantastic but not to the point of making to Ax8 sound like a pocket POD when comparing face to face. Also as other noted in the AX8 samples the volume knob of the guitar is higher than the FM3.
To be honest, the comparison with the raw amps was unsatisfactory in terms of sound (both units) but many people asked for it. I loaded the default settings of the raw amps and used the same IR and the same signal chain. I don't know why the AX8 sounds that thin. Btw. it has nothing to do with the knobs on my guitar...lol. When I use my own patches it's way better. That's why I'm working on a comparison video with my own sounds right now. The difference is much less, but still there - same tendency - the AX8 sounds thinner. However, both devices are excellent! Cheers Frank
I was hoping that there wouldn't be much difference sound-wise...Wrong!! HUGE difference..The FM3 sounds bigger, warmer, smoother, more {"Hair"....) The AX8 sounds "good"..the FM3 sounds GREAT!!
Hi Frank! If you wanted to make a serious comparison you had to show the settings of both pedalboards and also keep the guitar's tones and volume open in the same way. It does not seem to me that you did so...
1. Which settings are you interested in? 2. I tried everything to make a serious comparison. I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now (at music school, recording and shows all over the world) ...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. 3. I'm sorry I changed the Vol and tone button from time to time. I'm so used to it and I do it all the time. But honestly - what happens when you turn your guitar volume from 10 to 9? And what happens if you turn your tone pot from 10 to 8? Does your guitar get less bass? BTW...my guitar has a treble bleed - that means that it sounds the same at any volume. The story with the different pot settings is ridiculous and total nonsense. It can’t make the AX8 sound thinner. Cheers Frank
I love my AX8 for certain sounds, but the clean sounds distort just like in this video. Example: AX8 1987x Treble and AC-20. When you give it a whack, it does indeed produce a high end splatter on what should be reasonably clean. When these two songs are played on the FM3, no distortion is heard, as if it has a lot more headroom. Any guitar I play through it, if i whack the G string there is a sharp high end splatter which I do not hear at all on the FM3, sounds like the Input Trim is max gain, but is not. Yes, input trim is turned down, no where near clipping. As much as I love this and use it near daily, the FM3 sounds far more transparent, like the amp it's modelling. I'd trade my AX8 TODAY for a clean FM3. Mine too has more bass response than this video, for whatever reason. I'd still prefer the AX8 over anything (older) Line6, that's just my opinion.
Just looking for video about comparison between these 2, and found this. Beside any other possibilities of tone setting differences, I could hear a lot of differences between these 2. Thanks Frank, good video indeed 👍
Dude, both units are amazing. The FM3 is the new "small" Fractal unit. The algorithms are better, the fx are way better. But the AX8 is still an amazing piece of gear. Cheers :)
it appears the FM3 is in stereo and the AX8 is not. Having said that, if you listen with one headphone off, there is still a very clear difference. FM3 is 3D and AX8 is flat.
I agree with some of the posters here that the AX8 sounds un-naturally thin compared to the FM3. I'm wondering if the factory cabs are the issue rather than the amp modelling. I've found most of the factory cabs in my AX8 to be a bit on the dull side, especially compared with 3rd party IR's like Ownhammer (which I use). Leon Todd did a comparison between the AX8 and the AxeFX 3 (th-cam.com/video/91vuReJxqww/w-d-xo.html) using an identical IR rather than the stock cabs in the AX8 and the comparison sounds were almost identical. There was none of the thin bottom end on the AX8 that was demonstrated here with both the AX8 and the AxeFX 3 sounding equally rich. Considering the AxeFX 3 and the FM3 both share the same Aries modelling engine and processors, I would expect them to sound identical. So I personally think it's the stock cabs in the AX8 that is making all the difference - maybe Fractal have upped their game dramatically on building their own stock cab IR's with the FM3.
I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. There are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
If I were going to release a new floor unit replacing the already popular one that was out there I would refine the sounds to sound better then the stock presets in the previous. I know that people like this guy are going to do SXS comperisons of the stock presets. It happens every single release of the next gen Axe FX product. The sound was tweaked, just not by this guy.
I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. But there are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
Quick Comparison:
- 1987x Treble - FM3: 00:16
- 1987x Treble - AX8: 00:34
- 5153 100W Red - FM3: 00:49
- 5153 100W Red - AX8: 01:06
- 5F8 Tweed - FM3: 01:22
- 5F8 Tweed - AX8: 01:44
- AC-20 12AX7 B - FM3: 02:09
- AC-20 12AX7 B - AX8: 02:19
- Brit 800 - FM3: 02:30
- Brit 800 - AX8: 02:54
- Brit AFS100 2 - FM3: 03:17
- Brit AFS100 2 - AX8: 03:42
- Das Metall - FM3: 04:14
- Das Metall - AX8: 04:34
- Friedman HBE 2018 C45 - FM3: 04:55
- Friedman HBE 2018 C45 - AX8: 05:20
- ODS-100 Clean - FM3: 05:44
- ODS-100 Clean - AX8: 06:05
- PVH 6160 Lead - FM3: 06:25
- PVH 6160 Lead - AX8: 06:44
- Plexi 50W Jump - FM3: 07:02
- Plexi 50W Jump - AX8: 07:23
Good job ! Very useful thanks
@@Guitube99 No problem! Thank you :)
Thanks 🙏. Really appreciate!
This is the coolest ever. Thanks champion 👍
It's definitely a noticeable difference. Ax8 out of box got that boomy low and high end shrill to it.
I didn't expect such a big difference. The FM3 is so much warmer and meatier.
Absolutely!
There are MAJOR differences here! The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements. Cheers :)
Like the FM3 sounds like it's going through 12 inch speakers whereas the AX8 sounds like an 8 inch speaker
Thanks for publishing this. Excellent video. And your playing is impeccable
Thanks man. Much appreciated. Here's another comparison vid. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
I'm indifferent. I love my AX8, and the FM3 does seem to have a warmer and smoother response, but I think the AX8 can be dialed in to achieve the same tone...I think the FM3 will be a great addition to anyone's arsenal, as well as the AX8. Thanks Frank, this was an educational demonstration. With that, Leon Todd is on tour right now with his new FM3, and he say's it sounds amazing. I wonder if his comparison will mirror yours. "Tour day one. Lost all my clothes at the airport. Had a great show at Whole Lotta Love in Brunswick. FM3 sounds amazing. I'm tired." - Leon Todd
Both units are amazing. I love my AX8 too. The AX8 is more like a Axe-Fx2 in sound. The FM3 sound close to the Axe-Fx3. Video soon!
Subbed! You're a very stylistically diverse player.
Thanks David 🙏
To my ears, the FM3 is a win for sure!
But the effects aside, your playing just makes me want to immediately pick up my guitar!
Awesome :)
Here is the difference. The new stuff is dialed-in and eqed much better than the previous generations. However, you can tweak the older units to sound very very close to the newest ones.
Exactly my thoughts :)
Yeah I don’t understand why you wouldn’t try to dial this in to be closer- add a little low end to the 8 and you would be right there
I own an AX-8. I bought an FM3, and sold it after a few weeks. The FM3 arguably sounded a little better, but the AX-8 can be adjusted for that. What the FM3 lacked couldn't be made up for...the ability to make quick changes on the fly on stage in gain, tone, volume, etc. I'd buy a more capable AX-8 in a minute. I don't need an FM3 and another 5-700 dollars worth of switches to make the unit do what I already have in the AX-8. Also, no one is leaving your gigs over your guitar rig sound...maybe your talent, but not the patches. I'd argue most couldn't tell (or care less). Just my two cents. YMMV.
You're absolutely right.It's not easy switching to a new device. I play my AX8 every day at music school. It's just great to use. Still, after adjusting my patches, I find the FM3 sounds a bit better.
Whatever. Enjoy your AX8. Cheers Frank :)
@@FrankSteffenMueller I know how to run the FM3...I'm an engineer. The AX-8 has a full complement of amp-like control knobs that allow instant access. The same functionality on the FM3 is under one or more levels of control screens. For example, if I notice my sound is more bassy than the room needs, I can fix it in the middle of a song with the AX-8. I said the FM3 sounds a little better, but the loss of control makes it unwieldy for me. Whatever indeed.
Ben Holbrook absolutely right!
@@slick51 Would you say the FM3 is NOT worth the $600+ difference if I get one after selling my AX8?
Solution, just add an EQ pedal in the loop. Problem solved.
Gotta laugh at all these people thinking you intentionally made the FM3 sound better. I just upgraded from the AX8 to the FM3 and what a fucking upgrade it is. Under the fingers it responds like a tube amp and cabinet in a way that the AX8 doesn't quite nail. Gonna keep both, making the AX8 my live rig and FM3 for recording. Thank you for showing me the way. 🤘😎🎸
Awesome. I still use the AX8 in 4cm with my amp. But as a stand-alone unit the FM3 is so much better, especially after all those great updates.
right off the bat I can hear much more definition on the lower end and a much more rounded, full sound. Is that what you guys are hearing too??
Yeah Glenn Baby I am getting an FM-3 for extra effects and a midi pedal for my Kemper. Kemper remote will sell for close to the price of an FM-3 lol. Add a couple of Boss FS-7 for 4 more footswitches and DONE! The AX-8 sounded drastically different: thinner and less body than the FM-3. A guy above Jordan Holt posted a link to a SoundCloud comparing his FM3 to his AX8 and whilst he thinks they sound similar on studio-quality monitors or phones the same deal. FM3 DESTROYS an AX-8!
@@AlienSexGod how about fm3 compare with kemper? Which one would you prefer?
Why do the Volume and tone controls on the guitar look different on the FM3 samples compared to the AX8 samples??
I'm sorry I changed the Vol and Treble knob from time to time. I am so used to it and I do it all the time to make the sound more pleasant for my ears. Of course it was a stupid mistake. I didn't do it knowingly and I didn't want to fake the result. But honestly - Glenn you know that - you are a pro - what happens if you turn the volume of the guitar from 10 to 9? And what happens when you turn your tone control from 10 to 8? Does your guitar get less bass? By the way... my guitar has a treble bleed - that means it sounds the same at any volume. The story with the different pot settings is ridiculous. It can't make the AX8 sound thinner. Anyway - it was a stupid mistake.
Ok honestly everyone- both are great units. I guarantee if anyone was blindfolded and were told to tell the two apart; no one would be able to be 100% certain. With fractal, i don’t think we need to worry about the quality of tones. Both are floor units so i think the question should be on its functionality, durability, dsp power (my Ax8 overloads on me sometimes and automatically disengages my reverb). Thanks for the video Frank
Thanks 🙏. You're very welcome!
I'm definitely digging the fm3 great video thanks
Thanks 🙏. Really appreciate! The FM3 is a killer unit!
Some I preferred the FM3 version and others I liked the AX8 better. I think both sound like great options though. Both could produce great results on their own or in a band setting.
You are totally right :)
I just bought an AX8 For $650 on perfect condition it sound amazing
I dont think my ax8 has ever sounded that thin? Not meaning to cast dispersions upon the video maker here, but something has to be set weird in his AX8? Maybe he was recording direct using the FM3, then reamping to the ax8, and something in the chain is cutting off a lot of the low end?
He said in a comment further down that he just compared factory settings for both. Pretty stupid concept for a video, I'd say. Good fluff marketing for the FM3 I guess.
Michael, I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well.
As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
I also believe that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.
For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
@@bensmith8240 As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for). For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
i agree. my ax8 sounds much, much better than that. ax8 is AWESOME
@@andresludmer Dude, I played my AX8 for 5 years now - live and for recording sessions all over the world. It was and still is a trusted friend all these years. And it always sounded fantastic.
The comparison with the raw amps was unsatisfactory in terms of sound (both units) but many people asked for it.
I'm making a comparison video with my own sounds right now. The difference is much less, but still there - same tendency - the AX8 sounds thinner. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound nearly the same - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
this man is a badass, and that thing sounds incredible
Check my other comparison video as well: th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
▼
Great video Frank!
Thanks Kelster! Really appreciate :)
I hate the haters!! The vídeo is awesome. The playing is fantastic, it shows how great both units sound without tweaking, and it shows how much fractal has improved.
I mean, not only sounds warmer and fuller without tweaking anything, but you can tell that the fm3 is more dynamic and has more depth (little wing sounded amazing in the FM3).
And it is suppoused to be like this, is the next gen unit, and the AxeFX3 has like 12 firmware updates already, so the fm3 is suppoused to sound better than the ax8.
I mean, you could all hear that Quantum sounded way better than previous firmware, but if you have a new hardware and more than 10 firmware updates, then the difference is that he don't make them sound the same and the vídeo is useless???? Come on...
Personally, I don't have any fractal unit, I thought that they sounded great but something was a little off. The FM3 to me sounds just right and it is a lot less money than the AxeFX3. I will definetly buy one.
Anyway, GREAT VIDEO, GREAT PLAYING, and both units are FANTASTIC. Thank you for taking the time to do this!
Thanks a lot for your kind words. I really appreciate this. Let's stay in touch and tell me when you get your FM3. Cheers Frank :)
Why does the FM3 sound so full and and bass rich and the AX8 sounds so thin and anemic ??
I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models and used the same Factory Cab on all sounds. The sound was NOT tweaked before or afterwards! It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
I am going to get the AX8. Digital amp modeling isn't my focus. I think it sounds great. If I was more into the modeling. I could see getting the FM3. Brand new isn't always that much better.
@@JRP3music the AX8 is still a great unit. But there are no updates anymore. No firmware updates and no updates on the editor. At least the editor (AX8 Edit) should work on your computer. Cheers 🎸🤘❤️
Poor guy takes his time to make a video to compare and he get jumped on for “ volume and tone knob” conspiracy? Go by the 2 units and decide yourselves ? Give the guy a break.
😅No break for sure.😜. More FM3 vids soon. If you are interested in AX8 or AX-FX2 vids with great sound watch my channel. There are a bunch of vids with those amazing units. Cheers man #staysafe
I did buy the two units and they don't sound this drastic. See my comment on this page with link to audio.
@@FrankSteffenMueller freaking legend! Well done man
Its true his volume knob is rolled off at 3:37 compared to 3:47!!!!
I'm sorry I changed the Vol and tone button from time to time. I'm so used to it and I do it all the time. But honestly - what happens when you turn your guitar volume from 10 to 9? And what happens if you turn your tone pot from 10 to 8? Does your guitar get less bass? BTW...my guitar has a treble bleed - that means that it sounds the same at any volume.
As I already mentioned in the description, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
Hello from Ukraine . Thank you for the interesting videos that we do not have in our language.
Welcome!
Finally someone that can play real jazz and not fake metal head jazz. Besides that, this video is definitely bias. The bass, master and low res are cut like crazy on the ax8.
Hi Craig,
yesterday I uploaded a new vid comparing the Fractal Audio FM3 vs AX8 using my own custom presets to sound as realistic as possible!
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
perfect demo thank you
Thanks dude. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
This video is wat i was looking for,gona subscribe it now
Thanks for subscribing!
I'm going to say that there is no way the FM3 sounds this much better than the AX8. The AX8 has almost no lower end and the volume is slightly lower. Something else is going on here - maybe there's a global EQ difference or something.
Dude, I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models and used the same Factory Cab on all sounds. The sound was NOT tweaked before or afterwards!
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
I think the difference is that the default settings on the FM3 are much better than the AX8. You can probably dial the AX8 to sound much closer than it does here, but the FM3 is just "right there" because of the experience they've built up in the mean time with these models. And yes, I was surprised too, and I think a lot of it is Frank "feeling" the FM3 much more. It just sounds spot-on for the licks.
@@joristimmermans5058 Exactly. It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
Man I'm kinda wondering the same thing here. Something is not right
@@GlennDeLauneOfficial I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models and used the same Factory Cab on all sounds. The sound was NOT tweaked before or afterwards! It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
Nice, thanks for the comparison ! I would also love to see you try and create the same tones with both so we could see if the difference is in the factory presets or in the machine itself. I would not be surprised to hear an Axe FX 1 create a very similar tone than an Axe FX 3, I had an Axe FX Ultra back in the days and it needed more tweaking but damn that thing could sound great.
For sure you can adjust the presets of all the Fractal Audio units to sound closer - that’s what my new video is about.
But to be honest I think the algorithms have changed significantly and everything improved a lot over the last 4 years.
In my opinion the sound of the Axe-Fx3 and FM3 is way more natural, dynamic and 3D than earlier units.
Here's my new vid comparing the AX8 with the FM3 using my own patches and make both units sound as close as possible.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
@@FrankSteffenMueller hey thanks, really cool ! Surprisingly, I preferred the sound of the AX8 on the distorted tone but it's very close.
You could match these patches with some EQ. Nice playing! I am going for the AX8!
Yes you can try to match all the new stuff. After all the years the new Fractal models are way better in sound and possibilities. But the AX8 is a great unit anyway. Rock on!
The difference is am radio vs FM stereo...Better yet its the difference between my th10 and the ax8. Im getting the fm9, Thanks for the side by side
Very helpful demo...thanks
Thanks 🙏. Really appreciate!
That FM3 is badass!!!
The FM3 is amazing!
I love my Fractal units! Perfect for me :)
It sounds like the EQs are set different. But the underlying model quality sounds the same. Imagine if they came out with a new, better thing and it sounded the same as the old thing? They just added more resonance and bass to the FM3.
I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
This comparison really shows the improvement in modeling and conversion btw the two units.. FM9 here I come. I'll keep my AX8 . But, the Fender Models are more realistic on the FM3/FM9 to my ears. And, I'm primarily a Fender amp Player.
You are absolutely right. With the new Cygnus firmware the Fender amps are totally killer. Best of the best.
What is that jazz song called at 1:50 with the tweed setting!?!?
Old Jazz Standard calles Misty :)
@@FrankSteffenMueller totally going to play that now, it was beautiful! Thanks!
The amps on the AX8 sounds too much brighter and harsher in this test... IMHO
Yes...sometimes it's better and sometimes it's too harsh. Bt as I said...it's the factory amps just loaded - nothing tweaked ;)
@@FrankSteffenMueller Youre too kind, Frank. The FM POUNDS that 8. I heard the Aint talkin', but what about later, more saturated 80s...Skid Row ADA MP-1 sound, GNR Jubilee cranked, VH Diver Down chorused out tone?
Honestly i can not believe that the deffierence in sound is so enormous ....
🤔
in some cases the guitars volume knob is in a different position, also you must consider that most of the tone shaping comes from the cab simulation. To my ears in general the preamp distortion and power amp breakup sound nearly identical. if something is brittle then there is a control in the ax 8/fm3 to deal with it, you also have tone controls on your guitar
@@tensago I think the FM smokes the 8
I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well (and it's not the vol or tone knob on my guitar...😂😅😂.
As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
But there are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements.
Cheers, Frank
Great tones. That guitar is beautiful and covers a ton of ground.
Thanks 🙏Really appreciate. The guitar is a Knaggs Severn.
If this was a twelve round boxing match it would go to the judges. No clear knock out punches. I really like the FM3 on most tones but on some I really like the AX8. I do agree with the AX8 being a little too sharp but nothing that can’t be dialed out.
Good work on the diversity of your style.
I have been in the fence about getting blue guitar Mercury.
I was surprised about the difference in sound as well.
As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
But there are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements.
Cheers, Frank
Very cool unit as well!
Both gear are great, but i keep my Ax8, its still pretty good.
I have both of them ;) So good :)
I sold my AX8 after 2 month because it sound too thin and cold to me (compared to my tube amp). Now I hear it again - thin and cold AX8. New FM3 sounds much warmer with bigger body. Finaly a good sounding digit-machine. Maybe I going to buy a Fractal again...
Frank Steffen Mueller
vor 9 Stunden
Dude, first of all: I love my AX8. It's a fantastic unit. The overall sound depends extremely on the cab you use. In addition, there are so many parameters that allow you to adjust the AX8 to sound 99% like your tube amp. Anyway - The FM3 feels and sounds more natural to me. It's warmer and fatter than the AX8. It sounds like the Axe-Fx III and has all those stunning ambient effects.
Here are some MAJOR differences between those units: The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements.
IMHO for $999.- it's a bargain.
Have you ever tried the 4-cable-method with the AX8 and your Tube amp? Thats absolutely killer - best of both worlds.
Cheers, Frank
Are you sure those IRs are the same, i.e. Fractal may have changed the IR between units? Or did they change the IR engine so the same IR sounds different? Which IR did you use?
Could you try a third party IR, same file and settings into both units?
If anything I have the problem my AX8 is too warm sounding and I need to add some 4 and 8K. Don't recognize this at all.
IRs are the same.
Awesome! I think the FM3 has a little extra goodness in the sauce.
For sure :)
I’m very enjoyed the comparison because so many AX8 and FM3 users talking trash to each other’s lol
People just wrote their opinions and that's okay.. The comparison with the raw amps was unsatisfactory in terms of sound (both units) but a lot of people have asked for this exact video.
I made another comparison video with my own sounds. The difference is much less, but still there - same tendency - the AX8 sounds thinner. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound nearly the same - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
something wrong here with this AX8 , sound thin and clipping !!!
I own an AX-8 and the sound is different fat and warm
I played (and still playing at the music school) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
There are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about: th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
Ax8 sounds here like through 1x12 greenback, while FM3 sounds like a 4x12 with v30. Ax8 owners can be happier here because the solution isn't already expensive.
Jordi, I played my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what this video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
@@FrankSteffenMueller kind words Frank, thank you. I'm the new one because of you, this quality videos make me thinkf in sold all my tube amps, pedals and all stuff that reminds me the vintage way of thinking, that old right way of being musician making real music burning tubes. Anyway, both worlds can be friends together, i know that, but choose between them already is the real pathos of any guitar player i guess.
I can't afford an FM3 even used while I can find AX-8's used within my budget. Would you recommend an AX-8 at this point even considering it's Fractal Audio's older technology?
Hello, is it possible to send just the Delay and Reverb out of the "SPDIF" so I can record them on separate track to the amp and cab? Thanks
Sure. No problem.
Does the FM3 really sound that much better or is there something else going on here?
Thomas, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
I also believe that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
Is it possible to use it for stereo double track reamping? Kemper can't do it.
What do you mean exactly?
@@FrankSteffenMueller I have DI double track in DAW. Want to process it with external hardware. Kemper can't do this (it accept only 1 channel). AFAIK FM3 can do this but both channels will process by the same amp and cab. Right?
@@andivax I think reamping 2 tracks at the same time doesn't make sense because the CPU power is too low for that. Why do you want to do this at the same time and not one by one?
@@FrankSteffenMueller because I often have guitar double tracks (DI) and want to quickly change the sound. i can do this using software like TH-U. But interested in Axe Fx. May be fx2 or fx3 can do this? It has enough power, right?
@@andivax I know what you are saying. The Axe Fx II cannot do this, nor can the AX8 or the FM3. The Axe Fx III can though.
You would set up two separate signal chains in the same preset, set your ins and outs and reamp. I think the Axe FX III can theoretically run 4 chains at once limited by processor power.
This seems strange to me because the difference is massive here but Leon Todd did a similar comparison between the AX8 and the Axe III and I could hardly hear any difference at all. The AX8 sounds really thin here. Not sure about this.
Hey Seth,
yesterday I uploaded a new vid comparing the Fractal Audio FM3 vs AX8 using my own custom presets to sound as realistic as possible!
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
Well, that comparison is kind of outdated considering how many changes the III's firmware and amp modelling has gone through since then. It's well and truly possible now that the latest firmware architecture on the Ares and the last update on the AX8/Axe Fx II are completely different in how they sound and play.
@@saarangnarayan123 Absolutely :)
Saarang Narayan I get that but still hard to believe that large of an improvement in a year through updates. These companies wanna make you think you need the latest and greatest. They are in the business of making money.
To me the fm3 sounds a lot more full bodied in the majority of the the amps, but can be misconstrued as some ax8 sound a little more open with a bit more sparkle in some of the cleaner tones.
In this comparison, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
I also believe that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
Hey Frank, hast du die gleichen IRs verwendet? Das FM3 klingt immer viel basslastiger. Bei anderen Tests im Netz ist der Unterschied zwischen dem FM3 und dem AX8 viel geringer.
Ich war auch über den Unterschied im Sound überrascht. Wie ich bereits erwähnt habe, habe ich nur die Factory Amp Models geladen und für alle Sounds das gleiche Factory Cab verwendet. Der Sound wurde weder vorher noch nachher verändert! Es ist natürlich offensichtlich, dass sich die Algorithmen in den letzten 4 Jahren erheblich verändert/verbessert haben. Nur so kann ich mir den massiven Unterschied erklären. Sicherlich kann man die Presets beider Geräte so einstellen, dass sie ziemlich ähnlich klingen - darum geht es in diesem Video. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Ich liebe mein AX8. Ich habe damit die ganze Welt bereist und extrem viel damit gespielt. Inzwischen ist es allerdings so, dass sich durch die ,massive Weiterentwicklung der Algorithmen (Cygnus-Modelling) die neuen Geräte klanglich deutlich abheben. Ich werde demnächst einen Vergleich AX8 vs FM9 machen und hoffe, dass man das entsprechend hört. LG Frank
@@FrankSteffenMueller danke für die Antwort. Interessant. Bin gespannt auf den AX8/FM9 Vergleich. Beste Grüsse
I'm guessing the Apollo interface didn't make a difference? The sounds would have been the same if both units were run straight into the computer?
To get the audio signal into the computer you need an audio interface, right?
All modern audio interfaces today are of high quality. The signal /sound keeps the same. Cheers, Frank
@@FrankSteffenMueller The FM3/AX8 can serve as the interface, no?
@@Googliaooota FM3 Yes /AX8 No
@@FrankSteffenMueller Thank you very much for that info. That is useful to me.
Still try to save some many for a fractal's.. really wish can afford a used FM3 soon😅
All the best dude. Fractal is killer!!!
My somewhat empirical engineer brain was considering this comparison and comments. In this case/ comparison, and given the same (it seems) perception of small differences, what might be useful is to put white noise through both (at nominal guitar signal level) and use an RTA (real-time analyzer) to see what the general frequency response looks like. Yes, it's not the same as a guitar signal, but would give a pragmatic and realistic visual of what the actual and general frequency response is across the audio spectrum. Just a thought. Perception is only that. Measurement tells the real story.
That's a great idea. Will try the white noise/RTA for sure! Cheers :)
@@FrankSteffenMueller Please let us know what the measured difference turns out to be. Re: noise source type. Pink noise may also be used in this measurement, but has a defined rolloff of 3db per octave from about 3Khz and up (I could be wrong there) and pink noise is more commonly used as the source signal to do equalization on speaker systems. White noise is essentially flat from 20Hz to 20kHz. Since it sounds like everyone feels the likely difference is in the area below that 3Khz point (ie. in the low mid and low frequency areas) the difference in actual test signal/ noise type may be of no consequence. An audio sweep generator would also give a linear result but not as easily displayed graphically . I'm curious about the result, assuming the settings are identical.
Ax8 is better cuz it has the stomp controllers already? 🤔 Or fm3 come with a stomp controler for live gigs?
The AX8 is the older unit. Still great. The FM3 is the new version. The sound is way better! Both units are all-in-one stomp controllers. The FM3 is smaller and has less buttons. But it's extremely versatile. You can add another foot controller too. The FM3 is awesome!
@@FrankSteffenMueller tnx for the information 👌. So you have to buy extra stomp controllers. I see. Qe need the most usefull and easier, lighter system to move around etc. Whats the most usefull nowadays? 🤔 🙏🏻
@@dr.franciscotorresmarquezc7352 For me the best sounding and most useful unit is the FM3! It's. super small and light and you can switch everything with the integrated 3 foot switches.
Great video! Unfortunately, quite bad for me: just wanted to get a used AX8 and be done with decades of pedals / multiFX / direct recording struggle. With digital, the sound improvement never ends, and my budget can't follow lol!
Dude, the AX8 is a perfect piece of unit. Sounds extremely good and is versatile as hell.
But you can't stop progress and the Fractal guys are working hard. The newer models have way better effects and more realistic amp modeling.
Just try them both and decide by yourself.
This sounds a lot to me like the eq'ing was off. I doubt there was an intentional alteration here, but I think it skews the judgement - the AX8 doesn't normally have a thin and lifeless tone as is suggested here.
Terry, I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
Thanks for doing this. As far as you can tell from YT audio, it sounds like the AX8 is thinner, brighter and harsher than the FM3. Is that the case in the room there? Just added my name to the waiting list after watching your videos here.
Yes absolutely. The FM3 sounds more natural and warmer and fatter. The AX8 sound thinner with scooped mids.
Frank Steffen Mueller exactly the description I had in mind when listening to your video. Surprised how much better it sounds, I really don’t see how the axe fx 4 could improve much more. Fantastic playing too!
wow, that's a cool guitar.
Yes absolutely. It's a Knaggs Severn.
Thanks for the great comparison. AX8 sounds surprisingly thin and harsh. Can you tell me which firmware version is on AX8?
I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models and used the same Factory Cab on all sounds. The sound was NOT tweaked before or afterwards! It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one. Cheers Frank 🤘
That's a much difference that I hear on my units' Are you sure you haven't got global eq on the Ax8 that is reducing the bass?
Dude, I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well.
As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
I also believe that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.
For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
Does the fm3 have a looper and how long and does it have an sd card???
@Infonator1 The Looper block allows you to create multi-layered looped audio performances in real time. The looper is stereo
and features “undo” capability to remove the last recording or overdub.
The maximum looping time is 120 seconds.
You have these buttons: Play, Record, Erase, Undo/Redo, Once, Reverse.
If the Looper Block exists in the different presets, you can also change the presets and the loop will continue to play (e.g. recording Preset #1 SynthPad - then change to preset #2 and overdub some clean guitar chords - then switch to preset #3 and play solo with your lead sound, etc.
As far as I know, there is no way to save loops. But Fractal Audio might make it possible in a future firmware update. There is a USB port for a USB memory stick. This can be used for backing tracks. But it could also be used to save loops.
The modulation is more good ax8 than fm3 or viceversa?
Pitch shifter and chorus are great on both units. Newer units = more possibilities and better sound
@@FrankSteffenMueller many thanks
Knaggs guitars. Good stuff. I have a Kenai T2 and love it.
I have a Kenai t2 as well. In the next video I use my Knaggs T/S. Killer guitars :)
can you clarify the whole chain how you record, it seems to me your recordings have better quality then others on yotube reviewing fm3. how do you record ?
Sure. Signal chain is: Guitar into FM3 - FM3 into input 1/2 of my UA Apollo interface - into my DAW - mixing and mastering the final music. Hope that helps. Cheers :)
@@FrankSteffenMueller thanks)
FM3 for me. Sounds the best
The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The FM3 sounds more real, open and 3D and it has all the new and/or improved blocks of the Axe-Fx III. The FM3 is awesome! Cheers, Frank ;)
Wow there are lots of differences especially the FM3's handling on high freq hiss and the low (body) of the tone is superior
Dude, I played my AX8 for 5 years now - live and for recording sessions all over the world. It was and still is a trusted friend all these years. And it always sounded fantastic. Now, after years of development, there's something new - the FM3.
The same new algorithms like the Axe-Fx3. Same factory cabs. 34 blocks (AX8 has 25). Slightly more power than the AX8. Smaller and lighter. It's just that the FM3 sounds better (more natural, warmer, rounder, fuller. more 3D). That's the development.
The comparison with the raw amps was unsatisfactory in terms of sound (both units) but many people asked for it.
I'm making a comparison video with my own sounds right now. The difference is much less, but still there - same tendency - the AX8 sounds thinner. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound nearly the same - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
What does "default factory amp models" mean? Load the amp, don't touch any controls and go with it? That just represents what someone at Fractal thought it would be a decent baseline for that amp model I guess. If one sounds better than the other it doesn't really mean anything and it's certainly not the way I would use any modeler.
Exactly ...that's why it sounds like it sounds. That's what people were asking for. I'll post another video in a few days with my own sounds - sounds are way better on both units. Cheers :)
@@FrankSteffenMueller Man, people ask the most strange things... :)
Here we go 😉
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
0:49 holy fucking shit fuck yes that's what I've been waiting for from a FAS dual pedal the size of a fuckin keyboard, I'm so dang excited 😁
The FM3 is awesome. Check out this th-cam.com/video/Cr0N8hv8EAw/w-d-xo.html
I was considering going ahead with an ax8 instead of waiting for the FM3 until I saw this!
This definitely has me waiting!!!
I love both units, but the new FM3 is killer!
There are MAJOR differences here! The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements. Cheers :)
Great tones! And what model of knaggs is that? Thats a Versatile Guitar!
Thanks 🙏. Really appreciate! The guitar is a Knaggs Severn.
Dude its FM3 by a mile not even close and since the FM3 IS 50% AXEFX 3 but on the floor its winner winner chicken frickin dinner. Awesome playing bro. Of course everyone's eq settings are different but AX8 is too in your face with these settings.
I agree an it surprised me actually. I had an AxeFx2 for 7-8 years and it was a great piece of kit (as is the AX8) but the Fm3 sounded so much nicer in this clip. If it wasn't side by side or if it was in a band sense, the difference wouldn't be noticed as much, and also think the AX8 could be made to sound a lot close with EQ and same IR that the FM3 was using (assuming the FM3 ones are 'better').
@@bjlatter AX8 is awesome gear for sure and agreed it can be eq to get really close.
Thanks dude! I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well.
I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
But there are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements.
Cheers, Frank
Sound is a matter of taste. I find these sounds quite usable. So far I preferred other units but the fm3 has a good form factor. But Fractal really should just rent their units. Sadly this unit will be discontinued in 3 or 4 years. As every unit.
This is progress - but you can play your Fractal for the next 20 years - it's up to you.
@@FrankSteffenMueller Well, I would rather say it is business, sometimes disguised as progress. Human selling and buying psychology helps also a lot. Many fall in this trap. It would only be progress if older fractal units would not be "worse" (exaggeration but you get the point) which they are, obviously. No, I don't want to keep supposedly old and therefore "worse" digital amp modelling (again...exaggerating). I want 100% tube amp tone and feel right from the start and forever and not spend again and again thousands to get the next step towards 100% amp tone. I think you can have this, obviously, either by just buying analog gear or by going back 9 years and buying a Kemper. Seems that Kemper does not need that amp tone progress you are referring to and which I am talking about. Yes, even Kemper needs a whole other new stuff and features in the year 2020, I would say, but after almost 10 years of changing nothing at a same unit it would be more than justified now.
Don't be fooled guys, the only reason the AX8 is misrepresented in this video is because they want you to buy the new shinny thing of course. It's sponsored by Fractal btw, what do you expect!
Sergei, I played my AX8 for 4 years now - live and for recording sessions all over the world. It was and still is a trusted friend all these years. And it always sounded fantastic. The comparison with the raw amps was unsatisfactory in terms of sound (both units) but many people asked for it. Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. I also believe that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.
I did a comparison video with my own sounds right now. The difference is much less, but still there - same tendency - the AX8 sounds thinner. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound nearly the same - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
I think that this is not a fair comparison. Factory presets are the worst face of the AX8; we all know that tweaking it properly the ax8 can sound better than any factory preset. I asume that there exists the comercial necesity of showing the brand new product better than the old one
Bingo Claudio!
I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
But there are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks, etc, etc...This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
Hello Frank... Beautiful sounding demo..! Mind sharing your signal chain from guitar on..? Thanks and have a great weekend..! 👍
Thanks man 🙏
Signal path is Guitar ▶ Fractal FM3/AX8 ▶ Apollo x8 Audio Interface ▶ DAW (ProTools)
Cheers 🤘
Fm3 is the clear tone for tone winner the fx8 sounds thin and harsh in every comparison but I'm sure that could be dialed out
For sure you can adjust the presets of the AX8 to sound closer - I did a video about that.
But to be honest I think the algorithms have changed significantly and everything improved a lot over the last 4 years.
In my opinion the sound of the Axe-Fx3, FM9 and FM3 is way more natural, dynamic and 3D than earlier units.
Here's a vid comparing the AX8 with the FM3 using my own patches and make both units sound as close as possible.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
FM3 has a bit more dimension and depth, I suppose fits better in the mix. I sold my AX8,, want to buy either an AX8 or FM3 now only for recording purposes, considering the future updates I think FM3 is worth the extra money.
Great playing - you can hear how much thinner and smaller the AX8 sounds.
Thanks Frank, can you post in fractalaudio the preset for AX8 , Thanks a lot
Aldo, there are no presets. It's just the factory amp block with no changes. I always used the same Factory cab/IR. Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. In this raw-blocks-video both devices do not sound very pleasant to me. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. But there are MAJOR differences between those units. The blocks are obviously not really identical - otherwise it would sound the same, right? The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.
For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
On paper...Are they not supposed to sound EXACTLY the same??. Its not like were dealing with variances in tubes or BIAS or voltage or anything....Its basically a machine reproducing the same thing with the same chip, assuming it is EXACTLY the same settings???? What am I missing here?
4y years old unit vs brand new unit. Technology has improved. Algorithms have improved. Progress ...
Just SW algorithm changes from AXE-III that have been ported to the FM3. The amount of CPU is very similar.
@@BlkwtrPrk It's a comparison between the old AX8 and the brand new FM3. The Axe-Fx3 and the new FM3 sounds the same (Video soon). Cheers :)
They both sound great and very similar, some amps sounded better on the FM3 and other on the AX8.
Mostly sounds like EQ's are bit different, but I didn't play thought them to get the "feel" so it's difficult to really tell.
Good point, besides the ax8 and the fm3 is already good unit
Both units are awesome.
Hey Frank, great demo! Can the FM3 be used for effects only, like the FX8? I mean, with true bypass as well. Please do a “effects only” demo when possible! Rotary, whammy/pitch shifter, univibe, phaser and wah are some of my main interests. Another doubt is if the FM3 can “presetedly” insert my drive pedals into the signal chain without turning them off. Sorry for so much questions. Thanks in advance.
Yes the FM3 could be used for FX only. You have only 2 inputs for external fx or pedals. You can use them for inserting your fav. pedals (many guitarists are using the Eventide H9 in the loop of the FM3). Cheers ;)
Obviously different AD/DA converters. Different yes.. But, both are good..
There are MAJOR differences here! The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. All new effects like Optical Compressor, Shimmer Verb, 8-Plex, Quad Pitch (and many more) were not available on the previous generation of Fractal Audio products. The onboard foot controller uses the new “FC” paradigm, adding features and flexibility that the AX8 could not offer, plus the option to expand with additional FC Controllers. The new front panel interface is vastly improved, with all of the controls of an Axe-Fx III. The next-gen editor also takes advantage of the new “client server” model to offer seamless synchronization, 4k/5k monitor compatibility, and much more.The FM3 is also at the beginning in terms of firmware updates and will see further updates and improvements.
Cheers, Frank
Hallo Frank,
wie immer ein astreines Video von Dir-bin Ja ABO Empfänger.
Wie verarbeitest Du eigentlich die Einschränkungen?
Ich selbst habe mich schon im März 2020 dafür entschieden, nicht SKYPE oder ZOOM oder sonstwas für
meinen Unterricht zu benutzen.
Jeder Kunde von mir bekommt ein exclusives Video, und die Leute sind zufrieden.
Was ist aber z.B. mit Michael Schadt, der ja wahrscheinlich nicht in Unterricht gesetzt hat,
weil ja Wendrsonn so erfolgreich ist?
Noch ' ne Frage Richtung 70er: Weisst Du was über Ralf Dowedeit?
Gut, hab jetzt so alles im allen ca. 110 Videos exclusiv produziert, meine Prognose lautet:
12.April, solange halten unsere fürsorglichen Gesetzgeber wahrscheinlich noch eine Schließung
der Bereiche, die sie ja sowieso nicht berühren, für erforderlich.
Friseure zu?
Gruß von Ralph
Hi Ralph, allmählich geht mir/uns allen Corona ziemlich auf die Nerven. Viele sind erkrankt und auch an den Folgen verstorben. Bei vielen geht es um die Existenz. Alles sehr schrecklich.
Bei mir ist es so, dass ich natürlich finanzielle Einbußen habe, allerdings alles meistens Online (Zoom, Skype) weiterläuft. Bei Micha ist das genauso - Wendersonn ist da nur ein kleines "Zubrot", dass jetzt natürlich fehlt. Von einer Band wie Wendrsonn kann man nicht existieren. Da sind die Gagen zu gering und die Auftritte viel zu wenig.
Von Ralph weiß ich nur, dass er in Berlin lebt.
Ich hffe sehr, dass wir Corona bald hinter uns lassen und wieder einen normalen Alltag haben.
Friseur brauche ich nicht....hahaha.
Alles Liebe
They sound very much the same, except for some parameter difference, like microphone type or position or something. I can't put a finger on it, especially not seeing the editor.... But, i was expecting more 'nuance' or detail in the FM3 tones, but the AX8 seems its match. When i had the AX8, it never sounded as 'thin' and small as this....
As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
Wow!! It’s clear that something is wrong with the AX8 setup. I own the AX8 and AFX3 but as far a there is a difference between both units, this is subtle to my ears in my home, more in the feeling and the airness, not like this video where the AX8 sounds anemic, almost like a pocket POD. If the FM3 is like a reduced version of the AFX3 I would expect to sound the same and that means differences over AX8 are minimal. My AX8 never sounded that bad and yes Ares is fantastic but not to the point of making to Ax8 sound like a pocket POD when comparing face to face.
Also as other noted in the AX8 samples the volume knob of the guitar is higher than the FM3.
To be honest, the comparison with the raw amps was unsatisfactory in terms of sound (both units) but many people asked for it. I loaded the default settings of the raw amps and used the same IR and the same signal chain. I don't know why the AX8 sounds that thin. Btw. it has nothing to do with the knobs on my guitar...lol. When I use my own patches it's way better. That's why I'm working on a comparison video with my own sounds right now. The difference is much less, but still there - same tendency - the AX8 sounds thinner. However, both devices are excellent! Cheers Frank
I was hoping that there wouldn't be much difference sound-wise...Wrong!! HUGE difference..The FM3 sounds bigger, warmer, smoother, more {"Hair"....) The AX8 sounds "good"..the FM3 sounds GREAT!!
You are absolutely right. Since the Cygnus firmware, the difference is even bigger. But don't get me wrong - the AX8 is also a great unit.
@@FrankSteffenMueller Thank you.Nice guitars and excellent playing by the way.
Hi Frank! If you wanted to make a serious comparison you had to show the settings of both pedalboards and also keep the guitar's tones and volume open in the same way. It does not seem to me that you did so...
1. Which settings are you interested in?
2. I tried everything to make a serious comparison. I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now (at music school, recording and shows all over the world) ...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings. It is of course obvious that that the algorithms have changed/improved significantly in the last 4 years. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference.For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about. th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html Love to hear your opinion on that one.
3. I'm sorry I changed the Vol and tone button from time to time. I'm so used to it and I do it all the time. But honestly - what happens when you turn your guitar volume from 10 to 9? And what happens if you turn your tone pot from 10 to 8? Does your guitar get less bass? BTW...my guitar has a treble bleed - that means that it sounds the same at any volume. The story with the different pot settings is ridiculous and total nonsense. It can’t make the AX8 sound thinner. Cheers Frank
Ax8 👍
The AX8 is still an awesome piece of gear.
I love my AX8 for certain sounds, but the clean sounds distort just like in this video. Example: AX8 1987x Treble and AC-20. When you give it a whack, it does indeed produce a high end splatter on what should be reasonably clean. When these two songs are played on the FM3, no distortion is heard, as if it has a lot more headroom. Any guitar I play through it, if i whack the G string there is a sharp high end splatter which I do not hear at all on the FM3, sounds like the Input Trim is max gain, but is not. Yes, input trim is turned down, no where near clipping. As much as I love this and use it near daily, the FM3 sounds far more transparent, like the amp it's modelling. I'd trade my AX8 TODAY for a clean FM3. Mine too has more bass response than this video, for whatever reason. I'd still prefer the AX8 over anything (older) Line6, that's just my opinion.
Tell me what you think of FM3 when you got it. I love mine. Cheers :)
I like fm3 sounds
Thanks man - me too 🤘
Just looking for video about comparison between these 2, and found this. Beside any other possibilities of tone setting differences, I could hear a lot of differences between these 2. Thanks Frank, good video indeed 👍
Dude, both units are amazing. The FM3 is the new "small" Fractal unit. The algorithms are better, the fx are way better. But the AX8 is still an amazing piece of gear. Cheers :)
it appears the FM3 is in stereo and the AX8 is not. Having said that, if you listen with one headphone off, there is still a very clear difference. FM3 is 3D and AX8 is flat.
Both are stereo but you are absolutely right - the FM3 is more 3D.
I agree with some of the posters here that the AX8 sounds un-naturally thin compared to the FM3. I'm wondering if the factory cabs are the issue rather than the amp modelling. I've found most of the factory cabs in my AX8 to be a bit on the dull side, especially compared with 3rd party IR's like Ownhammer (which I use). Leon Todd did a comparison between the AX8 and the AxeFX 3 (th-cam.com/video/91vuReJxqww/w-d-xo.html) using an identical IR rather than the stock cabs in the AX8 and the comparison sounds were almost identical. There was none of the thin bottom end on the AX8 that was demonstrated here with both the AX8 and the AxeFX 3 sounding equally rich. Considering the AxeFX 3 and the FM3 both share the same Aries modelling engine and processors, I would expect them to sound identical. So I personally think it's the stock cabs in the AX8 that is making all the difference - maybe Fractal have upped their game dramatically on building their own stock cab IR's with the FM3.
I played (and still playing) my AX8 every day for 4 years now...I love that unit. I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
There are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
Did you use same ir’s per amp?
Yep - same factory cab
Same factory cab is not same cab. It would be best if you did a preset or two with same ir so we can listen to the real difference in the modeling.
some of those amps sounded like they were made for the song
Absolutely :)
Fm3 much more warm and natural !
Absolutely.
If I were going to release a new floor unit replacing the already popular one that was out there I would refine the sounds to sound better then the stock presets in the previous. I know that people like this guy are going to do SXS comperisons of the stock presets. It happens every single release of the next gen Axe FX product. The sound was tweaked, just not by this guy.
I was surprised about the difference in sound as well. As I already mentioned, I just loaded the factory amp models (nothing tweaked) and used the same IR’s (Factory Cab) on all sounds (that’s what people asked for).
Maybe some amp - cab combinations are unfavorable and make the sound in the AX8 thin, or the opposite way, make the sound in the FM8 fatter. Either way, both units are fantastic and you know that both can sound fabulous with the right settings.
But there are MAJOR differences between those units. The amp modeling is vastly improved, reflecting years of R&D that went into the Axe-Fx III. The Cab block has many new features as well. The blocks library is expanded, with more blocks and more options inside those blocks. This is the only way I can explain the massiv difference. For sure you can adjust the presets of both units to sound pretty close - that’s what my new video is about.
th-cam.com/video/mwnxQpjkX2I/w-d-xo.html
Love to hear your opinion on that one.
Cheers Frank 🤘
you have a very beautiful guitar sir. may i know what it is?
Hey dude, it's a Knaggs Severn. Cheers :)
@@musikschuleunteresremstal907 thanks.,
Thanks dude. Much appreciated. It's a Knaggs guitar.