Introduction
6
OK, so what does it do? Well, the Axe-Fx is fully routable, fully programmable, real-time
controllable, multi-effects processor. Whew, that's a mouthful. Let's examine each of these
attributes:
Routability:
The Axe-Fx allows you to place effects in any order and in series or parallel. Also,
the effects loop is routable as well so if you use your Axe-Fx with a preamplifier you can place the
preamplifier in the effects loop and run effects both before and after your preamp. Some effects
work better when placed before distortion (which your preamp would provide) and others work
better after. By providing a routable effects loop the Axe-Fx allows unrivaled flexibility.
Programmability:
The Axe-Fx allows extensive programmability of each effects parameters.
You are not constrained by the limitations of "one-knob" processors where little if any editing of
parameters is offered. In addition, many effects offer advanced editing capability allowing in-depth
programming. Usability has not been sacrificed though as most effects have a basic setup page
allowing quick access to the most used parameters.
Controllability:
Many of the parameters in the Axe-Fx are controllable in real-time. Both
internal and external controllers can be attached to various parameters offering dynamic control of
an effect. Additionally these controllers allow mapping the control value to the effect parameter
through a transform so even greater control is afforded.
Multiple Effects:
The Axe-Fx has all the classic effects plus a few new ones. And for most
effects you get two instances so you can really create some huge sounds. The Axe-Fx works on the
principle of an "effects inventory". You take an effect out of inventory and place it in the routing
grid and then connect it to other effects and connect controllers to it (if desired). If an effect has
multiple instances you can withdraw another instance of that same effect from the inventory and
place it at another location in the grid. The effects inventory is listed below along with the number
of instances available:
•
Noise Gate (1)
•
Compressor (2)
•
Graphic Equalizer (4)
•
Parametric Equalizer (4)
•
Amplifier Emulator (2)
•
Cabinet Emulator (2)
•
Reverb (2)
•
Chorus (2)
•
Flanger (2)
•
Phaser (2)
•
Rotary Cabinet (2)
•
Wah-Wah (2)
