30
4 SETTING UP
FX PROCESSOR ONLY (“PRE”)
Global Settings: check I/O Mono/Stereo settings, see also “Tip” below
Presets: Custom
Here, the Axe-Fx III is used as the ultimate virtual pedalboard, providing access to our vast collection of industry-
leading effects between guitar and amp, where traditional pedals might be placed. As with all Axe-Fx III setups,
you are not limited by the stock offerings but can combine effects in any configuration imaginable, creating totally
new sounds using the layout grid and its modular block architecture. Custom presets contain no Amp or Cab
blocks.
This setup uses only two of the four cables used in the Four-Cable Method (
designed for unity gain applications—which is important in this setup. Here we’ll use Output 3 and pair it with
Input 3 for simplicity’s sake.
You will need to create custom presets without Amp or Cab blocks, and those presets should be created with an
understanding of how effects sound in front of your amp’s preamp and the distortion it generates.
CONNECTIONS
This setup requires custom presets
with no Amp or Cab blocks.
Connect your guitar to Input 1 Instrument
on the Axe-Fx III. Adjust input levels
if required as detailed on
.
Connect Output 3 L to the input of your amp.
A Humbuster cable is recommended.
Set the front panel
OUT 3
knob
fully clockwise for unity gain.
To extend this configuration for optional
stereo, connect Output 3 R to the input of a
second amplifier.
You might use the Axe-Fx III to select
between two amps by changing Channels
on the Output 3 block:
- Channel A: Balance Center (Both Amps)
- Channel B: Balance Left (Left Amp)
- Channel C: Balance Right (Right Amp)
- Channel D: (Not used)
(See
for
more.)
TIP: OPTIMIZE FOR LOW NOISE
The optional Boost/Pad functions on Outputs 3 and 4 are designed to run the D/A converters at boosted levels,
padding their outputs for even lower noise. To find the right setting, adjust either of these settings as high as
possible without clipping the outputs, as indicated by a red LED on the front panel meters. You’ll actually hear the
noise floor drop as you increase boost/pad. Find these options on the Audio page of the I/O menu under SETUP.
Combo
Combo 50
GUITAR
AMP
INSTR
IN
Optional for
Stereo
INPUT
OUTPUT
3L
OUTPUT
3R
