Axe-Fx III MKII Preamp/FX Processor

This has been a life changing piece of gear - I thought the AX8 was incredible - but the III is beyond incredible. Never before have I been so happy and content with my tone....and just inspired to play. I am not the only one to share how time seems to fly by and you realize you have played one preset for an hour. This processor is at home in bars, in church, and in my home practice space. Consistent and incredible tone leads to better playing and more fun.

I thought that I was gonna eventually return the AXE-FX III, boy was I wrong! All I have ever heard about Fractal products is that you need to be a tweaker to enjoy them, or rather if you don't like messing with parameters for hours to get the best tone you won't enjoy it. FALSE! I have owned a helix before and though it was a great piece of gear, I had to tweak forever with it to get what I wanted (and even then I couldn't get it to sound just right). But with the Fractal, I picked a stock preset, tweaked just the eq, (turned the bass down a bit and the mids up a little) and it was the best sound I've ever gotten with a modeler. All the things that you've heard are correct. This is the best solution for someone who needs a jack of all trades unit. I can't recommend it enough!

I got nothing.... This thing is an absolute beast. Must buy.

For those of you who are reading reviews in order to determine if an AXE III is for you bear in mind that this review is from a very new user of Fractal products and especially the Fractal AXE III. While I am somewhat versed in ‘modelers' going back to the original ROCKMAN these devices were primarily obtained for the excitement of a new sound and the added benefit of multiple stomp boxes in a single piece of equipment. The AXE III represents, as far as I'm concerned, the best the digital world can emulate the analog domain and having said that, Fractals' AXE III is its' own unique domain. Every aspect of sound reproduction and reinforcement is superbly taken into consideration. Initially I wanted to take the AXE III right out of the box and within a day get it ready for a gig. Upon more reasoned and seasoned advice, it became apparent that a little more time should be given to understanding the capabilities and enormity of this technological work of art. While creating patches should be old school to most of us by now, it is frustrating that just when the tweak you thought would be perfect is completed another tweak simply blows you away. This is evidenced by the almost limitless combinations of sound that can be achieved. If you are familiar with modelers you should be able to dive right in and explore without a second thought after some basic familiarization with the controls. You will probably find yourself creating a layout only to find a better way to do it. Have patience and give yourself a little time while enjoying the glorious pallet of sound at your disposal. The purchase of the AXE III is justified in my case for many reasons, not having to lug a seventy pound amplifier being just one of them. Live or studio work and other possibilities which I haven't even entertained yet make me quite certain that the AXE III represents the future of musical expression and inspiration.

I am a violinist/cellist/guitarist/bassist and keyboard player....the Axe 3 has made any and everything I do possable with ease for writing,recording and touring. I am so very thankful a unit like this exist.I wonder if the people at Fractal audio are even human haha

WOW OH WOW... I AM COMPLETELY BLOWN AWAY WITH THE LEVEL OF DETAIL AND REALISM INVOLVED. I AM A KEMPER USER AND NOW I AM PROUD TO SAY I AM A Fractal USER. CLIFF HAS HIT ANOTHER HOMERUN. YOU GUYS HAVE FOUND ANOTHER Fractal FANATIC FOR LIFE!!

The FC12 and the Axe III is the greatest piece of gear you could buy if you need a modular, A+++ solution for getting killer guitar sounds for every style of music. I've owned both Kemper-Helix as well and they are great... but the Axe III is the best modeler IMHO. Most gigs I'm happy with using a Plexi, FTR37, Fryette Deliverance and a High Powered Tweed Twin... those amps enable me to get all the sounds I want. The fact I have tons more amps and cabs for experimentation and fun is just icing on the cake. The FC12 is the easiest foot controller to use in anyway you see fit, just incredible. The initial investment may not seem cheap, but considering it's everything you could want or need... it a bargain!!

The best modeler period. Others are good but Axe-fx III is in another class.

Hands down the best guitar modeling/processor system ever created. Period.