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3 USB
COMPUTER INTEGRATION
3 USB
With a USB connection to a computer, the Axe-Fx III functions as an 8-in/8-out 24-bits 48kHz ultra-low latency
audio interface for Mac and Windows computers. A driver is required for use under Windows. This extremely high-
quality audio interface is powerful enough to be the centerpiece of a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).
In addition, a computer connection provides high-speed “MIDI-over-USB” for remote control of the Axe-Fx III,
backups, updates, editing, and more.
WINDOWS MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
OS: Windows 7 SP1 or newer (all versions compatible with x86 or x64).
CPU: Intel Core 2 @1.6 GHz or better, or AMD equivalent.
Memory: 1GB minimum.
USB: USB 2.0 support required.
Driver: The Axe-Fx III is fully class-compliant, but driver installation is still required for use under Windows.
The Windows driver can be downloaded at
http://www.fractalaudio.com/support
Step-by-step instructions are included with the installer.
MAC MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
OS: OS X 10.6.8 or later for MIDI-over-USB (Fractal-Bot, Axe-Edit III, Cab-Lab, etc.).
OS X 10.9 or later for USB audio. An issue in older OS X versions causes audio pops.
CPU: Intel Processor or Apple M1 series.
Memory: 512MB minimum.
USB: USB 2.0 support required.
Driver: No driver is required for Mac OS. The Axe-Fx III is class-compliant.
Important: If you are using a USB-C to USB adapter on an Apple computer, always plug the USB-C end of the
adapter into a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port on your Mac first, and then connect the USB cable of your
Axe-Fx III to the adapter.
MIDI-OVER-USB
The USB connection also carries high-speed “MIDI-over-USB”. On the computer, the Axe-Fx III MIDI In port inputs
MIDI data from the Axe-Fx III. The Axe-Fx III MIDI Out port transmits data from the computer to the Axe-Fx III.
MIDI-over-USB performs the same functions as regular 5-pin MIDI, only faster. For example, the Axe-Fx III will
process an incoming MIDI Program Change message whether that message is transmitted through the unit’s own
MIDI IN port, or via the Axe-Fx III MIDI Out port of a connected computer.