First Year with the Axe-Fx III - Overview & Thoughts

Book an Online Lesson - urlzs.com/G5wKC
Listen to my music - linktr.ee/ragd...
Follow me online
★ leontoddmusic
★ leon_ragdoll
Gear I use
► Fractal Audio Axe-Fx III, AX8 & X-Load
www.fractalaudi...
► STR Guitars
www.deviser.co.jp
► Anarchy Audio Stompboxes
www.anarchyaud...
►Eventide Effects
urlzs.com/gkZmz
► PRS Guitars
prsguitars.com...
► Camera - Canon EOS M50
amzn.to/2WDuWaC
► Monitors - Adam A7X
amzn.to/2WwwH9y
►Martin A Smith Pickups
www.martinasmi...
► Interface - Universal Audio Apollo Twin
www.uaudio.com...

[@TheDogggrecords]

The genuine enjoyment that comes through in this man's eyes as he navigates through the potentials and shows us what we are capable of creating is pure and comforting. You can tell this dude has good intentions in all aspects of life, beautiful soul and it shows! 👏🏻

[@1octavarius]

Has it really been a year? I couldn’t agree more with you Leon. Not once have I regretted taking the leap into the amp modeling world. Aside from the obvious convenience in size, Fractal continue to push the boundaries with constant upgrades and enhancements, as evidenced in this video. Even a year into owning one, I find myself still having just as much fun tinkering with and exploring what this machine can do, as I do creating music. Honestly it’s about a 50/50 split. And as satisfied as I am with the Axe 3, the more I find out about the upcoming FM3, the more I find myself leaning towards adding it to the arsenal for its even more “on the go” capability. Lunchtime practices with Axe 3 quality modeling and effects? Absolutely yes!

[@LeonTodd]

Yeah the FM3 is an absolute no-brainer - Fractal power in your gig bag!

[@Guitube99]

Your love for the thing is contagious and inspiring, very nice !

[@avasbaba]

I got my FM3 a few weeks ago and I can't do anything else besides playing guitar! This thing is amazing. Your videos greatly helped with my decision.

[@LeonTodd]

Great to hear! Enjoy :)

[@soundthesirens4886]

Thank you for all the content you provide, your videos have been a huge help for me and my learning of the axe fx3, easily the BEST piece of gear I've bought in years

[@johnblume4500]

I just ordered my Axe-Fx III Mk.II because of all the great videos you've done. You're a mountain of informative information - especially for people new or beginning on the Axe-Fx. Thanks a ton !

[@witeshade]

Every time I watch one of these videos I have to go cuddle my Pod HD500 and whisper "it's gonna be okay", lol. Seriously though, I knew the AxeFX units were awesome just by reputation, but after seeing all your deep-dives into them, they're absolutely mind-blowing. I'd love to see someone do similar videos with Helix and Kemper units just to get a better idea of how everything stacks up.

[@vaughanmacegan4012]

I seen videos with the Helix Lite, Ax 8 and the Mooer GE 300 seems to stack up quite well.

[@BeeBeeCJr]

Daniel G As much as I love my helix and what I’ve done with it over the years, I don’t think any of the other untold actually CAN be as in depth as the fractal units. The adjustment parameters are just insane and in a league of their own.

[@kcussrebutuemos4815]

They’re out there.

[@kingfisher7960]

I have had a lot of gear. The Axe FX 3 apparently is the GOAT so far as modelers. Im going to say if you want the authentic tones, get the AXEFX, If you want to just play and not spend alot, stick with your POD.

[@tomaburque]

Coffee and a new Leon Todd Axe Fx video. Great way to start my day!

[@LeonTodd]

Mmmmmm coffee

[@Supperconductor]

Given the functionality and frequent feature updates, the price is fair IMO.

[@vaughanmacegan4012]

You think $4,100 without a foot controller is a fair price, you must live in Gibson World!!! What are you gonna do on a dark stage run over and try and change presets on the unit during the middle of a song. Good luck with that.

[@Hable]

@@vaughanmacegan4012 Isn't it priced at $2,250 new from their website? Or am I looking at the wrong one? (Excluding footswitch)

[@vaughanmacegan4012]

@@Hable As Leon Todd is Australian I thought you were Australian as well. Down here it costs $4,100 as our currency is tanking at the moment due to the US-China trade war. We can't buy from the website. And even if the currency rebounded the price is locked in :

[@LeonTodd]

@@vaughanmacegan4012 I reckon I could devote a whole series of videos to how we get absolutely reamed on imported stuff down here in Australia. Most of my audience on YT is based in the US so I tend to default to $USD when talking gear. Compared to pieces of gear in it's price range and compared to other pieces of studio gear this delivers a lot of value IMO. It's straightforward to program with any midi controller or set up automated patch changes if your band plays with tracks too.

[@charleswagner1724]

Agreed.

[@maideo]

Couldn't agree more! For bedroom musicians, I have to say the owning guitar processors like the Axe-FX will actually save you a lot of living spaces and money from buying variety of amps, pedals, and cabs (maybe) in the long run. Plus, you don't have to deal with the neighbors' complaints of playing too loud through a valve amp.

[@LeonTodd]

Yeah it's an absolute godsend in that regard. World class tone anywhere, anytime.

[@maideo]

@@LeonTodd Right on. And the endless amount of contents to deploy and tweak in this unit is just mind-blowing, especially how it has over 2000 cabs you can use! Plus, I will need that Precision Drive IR when I make fresh presets from scratch. Thanks for letting me know that it exists lol.

[@josuastangl7140]

I really hope this translates well into the fm3!

[@2mnygtrs]

Great video Leon. My Kemper had to watch it from sitting behind me, now I have to go buy it some flowers and a bottle of wine...........

[@DeathMetalGuitar]

inspiring! thank you Leon for doing this!

[@LeonTodd]

Thanks so much! Been a big year

[@salxorw3191]

For music it was definitely the best purchase i have ever spent

[@matthewtayloryowieresearch1912]

spent money for the best reason, the only real reason, the most ideal legit reason too in my book, for music!🎸 deadly! 🤘

[@danrao3707]

Thanks Leon. Another awesome vid! I think I got my unit right around the time you posted this. I could not agree with you more when you say "inspiring". However...for those who love to tweak and have a touch of OCD be prepared to disappear for quite some time. It's so freaking inspiring you won't even notice (or care) that your girlfriend is banging your drummer. I recently learned that I could've just went Axe-Change and just download a bunch of amazing tones by some dude who puts LT in front of all his patches.

[@guitarghost1]

Thanks for your videos !! You Leon, Mark Day, Marco, Camilo and Brent gave me the inspiration to get the AXE FX 3! I especially like your in-depth videos on the unit. I am still trying to dial it in and learn everything, but all you guys make it so much easier and fun. Thanks !!

[@fatherjacques]

I just bought one and will get it next week. You conforted me in my choice!

[@axestervtx120]

Thank you so much Leon 🙏. This is my 3rd axe-Fx now and I’m loving this ax3. You are helping me immensely! Saving me a lot of time!!! Bless you brother! Keep up the good work! Looking forward to your presets on Axe exchange! 🤘

[@oldman0995]

I have had mine for about four months. First you have by far been the most helpful person to help me learn how to use it and I thank you I sometimes used my recipe signal chain to build my own but for the most part I take some things that are there as a starting point to build my own. Thanks so much my friend 👍

[@LeonTodd]

That's super cool to know!

[@tonedriverss8629]

Incredible ! The time has come now to send the old boring useless tube beasts to the junk yards or museums . This is the new age of tone and function . Only a dumb deaf caveman would sneer at this awesome piece of kit . Excellent in depth well done video demo of this awesome unit .

[@tlingen1]

Great job Leon. Love learning from your videos about all gear but especially the Axe-Fx III!!

[@juegoperfecto]

I just bought mine this sunday... I should have it with me next week 😃

[@LeonTodd]

Congrats! You're going to love it.

[@juegoperfecto]

@@LeonTodd if my wife complains about my new toy... I'm gonna tell her that is your fault. "But the other cool kid across the block has one, why can't I?" 😁

[@yeahwhatevermike]

How long were you on the wait list?

[@juegoperfecto]

@@yeahwhatevermike no waiting list for the AXE Fx III... There's one for the FM3 though...

[@yeahwhatevermike]

Rodrigo Gonzalez yes there is I’ve been waiting for weeks

[@fullmetalsal]

Excellent points Leon. For me what resonates with your comment is the feeling inspired part. Any piece of gear can look good with tons of bells and whistles but if it has zero inspiration then get rid of it. Cheers.

[@PhlioNihm]

Hey Leon, great vid. Still loving the Axe 3 here, it's such an inspiring experience every time I power it up. I just have to say that both the Axe and your vids have helped to further inspire me to keep moving forward. Thank you so much for all the vids you have done and continue to do!

[@LeonTodd]

The pleasure is all mine mate!

[@yellokrab]

I've had mine for a few months and I'm still working on finding that one awe inspiring tone that makes time disappear, since it's so deep. I know it's in there and with Austin Buddy's preset packs I could play any gig happily. I also have a Kemper and it's much more limited but equal in tone quality so when I'm in the mood for simplicity I play that.

[@LeonTodd]

You have the rig of doom with both those units!

[@banyarling]

For me, the Kemper is more plug and play (plug -- and buy profiles bc the factory presets are awful -- and play). I am studying how to maximize my Axe 3 with Leon's vids but I don't seek the 80s Rocktron tones. There are much more interesting sounds to be made here. YMMV

[@hankgalt]

yellokrab saw your comment, thought I’d ask about the Austinbuddy thing. What’s the deal with his preset packs? My understanding is everything (hundreds of amps and cabs) is in the axe already with lots of presets and every possible effect. Do the austin buddy packs have specific bands’ or players’ tones (like Iron Maiden tone or Van Halen tone or whatever)? I’m not sure what I’m asking here, ha, maybe, what’s the point of the Austin buddy packs? I figured when I got the axe I’d have everything I need, not have to spend $100 more on presets. Thanks for your help

[@doriangrey4392]

I would love my FX III if I had one, Leon. BTW thanks for the review.

[@BJPriceMusic]

I've had mine a little over a year. Man its amazing. Been watching your videos for awhile and thank you so much for all of the insight and instruction on numerous stuff. Truly appreciate it.

[@LeonTodd]

Cheers mate! You can get lost in this thing.

[@B2Rockin]

Omg I would never get around to playing, i'd be having too much fun with all of the damn bells and whistles lol. Sounds amazing!

[@sethbaer684]

I'm hella late to this vid, but I just got an FM9. Thanks for the tips!! Def gonna look into the multiband compression and grinder features!

[@LeonTodd]

Congrats!

[@chrisact9601]

That pitch follower is a fantastic idea. Wish my Helix had that.

[@LeonTodd]

The modifiers section on the fractal stuff is much more like a synth than a guitar processor

[@theaustralianhulk]

Sold my Axe II to get the III. Found it to be glitchy believe or not. So decided to return it and go back to amps and pedals. Don't miss it at all.

[@lexx6051]

George Smith dam I’m scared to get anything modeling now lol

[@theaustralianhulk]

@@lexx6051 Haha. When I returned it, they told me there were updates coming to fix most of the issues, but then I would be out of the return period and didn't want to risk it. I gotta say, I don't miss it at all. I am loving trying new pedals and I have way more cool sounds than I ever found on the Axe. I just didn't realize how much time I was spending digging around looking for stuff. I guess I'm just a visual person. I like to look down and see what's available to me.

[@lexx6051]

George Smith yea same here I’m wasting time fking around with gear lol I’m lookin an an engl amp and 8 pedals and one of those boss es8 loop switchers imagine all of the presets to have with a midi amp and 8 effects most of us really need not 10000s of tones but it is fun lol

[@theaustralianhulk]

@@lexx6051 very true!

[@randallsandmann2579]

AXE/FX III... It’s like amp modeling, but for men... love mine, and learned a ton from you, Leon! I started out on an Ultra as well gigged with it for about 6 years. Moved up this past year and I’m in heaven! I too, tried all the others and it’s not even close. Still,waiting for a set list function though... GRRRR...

[@jasonwhitaker3208]

Really enjoying your videos. I recently got the FM3, but I’m going to exchange it for the III mk2. Both units are complete overkill as I’m just a hobbyist, but I really wanted the extra capabilities of the III mk2.

[@LeonTodd]

The III is a mind blowing piece of gear

[@hotman718]

I currently use Helix which I love because of it's simplicity. I'm saving up for an AXE FX III one day because I know it's just the cream of the crop in terms of modeling.

[@lfscrazy]

Hi Leon, this is clearly an amazing bit of kit for a working musician but I just play at home for fun. Is it really good enough to replace my '69 plexi or '62 Tremolux? I'm a straight in, 1 guitar, 1 amp and 4 greenbacks guy. Would I miss them if I sold them for one of these?

[@LeonTodd]

It depends on how you run it - the "amp in the room" sound of playing through a guitar cab is a very different experience to the "studio" style experience of playing an Axe-Fx through full range speakers. In the latter situation, you're hearing the tone of a mic'd up amp and everything that goes with that. What you lose in "thump" and "roominess" you gain in versatility, scalability and fidelity though. You could always run the Axe through a power amp and into a cab of course if you want the "in the room" thing though. You love your amps because they're your amps and nothing will replace that though - no two Plexi's sound the same and that's the beauty (and the frustration at times) inherent in them. IMO an Axe-Fx (or FM3) would be a great way to complement your classic amps rather than outright replace them, and it'll let you get epic tones at any time of the day in any situation.

[@lfscrazy]

@@LeonTodd OK thanks for the detailed answer. Happy New Year!

[@jackmeginniss6327]

Still love mine. Still seems brand new, especially considering the continuous flow of firmware updates. I should probably raise my glass and say “Dilly!! Dilly!” at the least.

[@chrisangela]

Well, thank you for this Leon...I've officially opened up a space on the FM3 waitlist as I ordered the AXE III immediately after finishing the video:-) A few quick questions, to help finance this, I'm considering selling a few current pedals: Strymon TimeLine, Boss DD-500, and an Atomic Amplifire 6...do you feel I'll miss any of these? I also have an AX8 that will become my backup rig. I'm also getting a Gator Hardshell 3U (GR-3S) Rack case to store, travel, and protect it with. Now to simply stay up all night to watch every video you've made the past year (again) regarding the III! Cheers!

[@LeonTodd]

That's my rig at the moment - III with the AX8 as a backup. Between the multidelay, reverb and delay blocks I'm sure you'll be able to cop all the tones from your pedals - the timeline//dd-500 do have a convenient form factor but otherwise it should be smooth sailing!

[@chrisangela]

@@LeonTodd Excellent, thank you! I may hang onto one of the delays, being such a delay freak. I cannot wait for this to arrive, I'm working my way thru your AXE III video collection as we speak. Thanks again for all your efforts!

[@jettsom]

That plex delay is surely based upon the Avalanche Run pedal from Earthquaker devices. Love that Grinder boost also, sounds massive.

[@nitrokyosho]

Great video as always buddy

[@shaterproofblosm]

This isnt a unit for everybody, just for people who want something better xD nah I'm just about to finally start recording, I think I might wait another year and cant wait! I really do need another thing to feed my ocd. That UI honestly looks delicious!

[@macoliytb]

thanks for your help, you're amazing .....

[@emmanuelwolf6568]

I live in the UK,I love your channel but unfortunately I'm not in a position to afford one.😭.keep rocking dude.

[@hoosierdaddy2308]

Hey sir. Catching up.. Question. Does the axe 8 you use on the road have the same chips and memory, etc as the rack unit? Just wondering? I ask because a used one is like half the price of the rack unit, and not that much more than other units in the range. I really like it's overall setup and block amounts, etc. It's just killer the way you can play bass and guitar thru the FOH. Plus I would of course record with it, etc.

[@paulmerritt8593]

I got my Axe Fx 2 right before the 3 was announced but I'm still super happy with my 2. The 3 is out of this world and it's hard to fathom something better than the 2 I have. I may upgrade yet but for what I do it's hard to justify. Who knows it might do me till the 4 comes out. I will not be suffering using the 2 for the next 8 years or however long it takes. I still find ways to improve my sound on the 2 and Im in my 3rd year with it. It has been used pretty much every day since I got it. Damn that 3 is a nice machine though.

[@LeonTodd]

Plus the II got an update with the new modeling which is pretty amazing!

[@AaronFordMusic]

Looking forward to the 2 year review ;)

[@chrismitlyng1411]

Did you just say that you and your bass player use the same AFX3 unit live?!?!?!? Picked up your album off iTunes Leon, great stuff man!! Thanks for all of your AFX tutorials on the 3, you’ve taken a lot of the concern away regarding the sound and complexity of the unit to the point where I’ve decided to buy my own. I look forward to your videos to help me through it! Thanks again for your work Leon! Chris

[@mattvanyguitar]

Couldn't agree more! Just amazing. Love the Axe-Fx III. Nothing beats it for my needs.

[@ahmedrashed78]

Going through depression but your videos help, thanks Leon

[@LeonTodd]

I'm humbled, thank you for sharing and if there's anything I can do to help don't hesitate to ask mate.

[@ahmedrashed78]

@@LeonTodd thanks mate!

[@conorday7893]

I loved mine and I am so bummed that I had to sell it. I watch your videos to help me deal with fractal withdrawals lol. Can’t wait to get another one as soon as I possibly can

[@mrparkinson]

Hmmm... I had come to terms with the AX8 not receiving any more upgrades, but after watching this I kinda wish there was a few new firmwares! There is a couple of options mentioned there that I would love to have. Ah well, the AX8 is still an embarrassment of riches in its own right I guess!

[@LeviGuitar]

All you videos start so suddenly, it always comes as a surprise for me 😂 btw great content as usual

[@LeonTodd]

It's funny you mention that because I'm just about to move over to using a title screen!

[@LeviGuitar]

I'm looking forward to it!

[@saminekunis8680]

I agree with you then you record tracks through a quality interface, but playing it live straight through a power amplifier sound simply harsh, you definitely have to go through a D/A converter and then through a power amp just like Animals as Leaders did

[@PhilipADolan]

Absolutely agree 100% Leon the best kit on the market pricey but worth the investment

[@vaughanmacegan4012]

Providing you can come up with the $7,700 ....

[@bobwalters9151]

Hands down one of the best Axe FX III tutorials I have seen... all play and no filler. thank you!

[@berndkiltz]

I hope you get money from Fractal because of you I really think about gettin the III although the fm3 would probably be way enough for me... :)

[@LeonTodd]

It's all about the tone!

[@unktopia]

I'm in the same boat. I'm sure the fm3 will be great and I'm on the waiting list. But I just keep getting the urge to go all out.

[@irishRocker1]

That whole grid thing is super cool. I have an eleven rack and basically just downloaded a few presets but never felt like messing with it but the ax looks like so much fun, even just paralleling amps could make huge difference. It's great you can get bass and guitar through it too. What's the limit on that? Two guitars and a bass? Seems like any effects you can think of using it's got it. If the fm3 isn't too limited in comparison I'd be tempted to go for that

[@Swinglehurst-Guitars]

Ok, that’s it. I’m ordering one tomorrow

[@LeonTodd]

Enjoy!

[@Swinglehurst-Guitars]

@@LeonTodd ordered! I think your channel will come in very useful! 👍

[@Swinglehurst-Guitars]

@@LeonTodd sent it back yesterday, FX are incredible but for me, it's really let down by the amp modelling. Doesn't come near to the sound & feel of a Kemper and I'd go as far as to say they aren't as good as the Helix modes either. Its more than usable direct but it really starts to come undone into a power amp and cab. Tried it with a Seymour Duncan Powerstage 700 and into the FX returns of a couple of different tube amps with different cabs & it wasn't for me.

[@stevenmgyori3826]

" Well said, explained and Shared!" Your an inspiration to many and Helpful to All! Thanks for sharing brother! Be Well Leon!

[@LeonTodd]

Onya Steve! hope all is well mate.

[@jimbobgary3]

Was not expecting you to bust out some Marigold!

[@Eventual420]

An excellent outline. Intrigued by the 4 input option. You could have 4 different guitars always at the ready? Or how about, as you said, a vocal effect chain, a keyboard chain, a guitar chain, a bass chain? Mind blown. When my brother did sound locally, the mixer desks had a side car with your basic Alesis units, etc. He had to process the vocals and mix the band. I remember the vocalists would demand EQ cuts and boosts as well. And he hated the ultra bright guitars of the 80s, and would tame them with EQs. I just imagine the Axe III as this sidecar unit, or even better, a band that premixed their sounds. It would have to be an absolute psycho, that’s sarcasm btw, a power user, a technician such as yourself. Or maybe they are becoming exactly that, an every day unit that most engineers should know. One man, and an AxeFX could revolutionize a band’s sounds. But are there limits that would be pushed? Would it be glitching? Honest question from an inexperienced non user.

[@LeonTodd]

I'll offer this as an example. We played a local two stage mini festival a few weeks back, bands playing back to back in seperate rooms. Each stage had changeover times of around 45 minutes so we had loads of time to setup and check - guitar and bass soundcheck took all of 3 minutes, essentially just routing plugging in the requisite cables and getting levels established. Another 10 or so minutes was spent doing seperate in-ears mixes for drums and guitar/bass and we were good to go. Half an hour or so limber up, hydrate and chill out before the set was an absolute treat that otherwise would have been spent hauling amps on stage, plugging pedalboards in, placing mics and tweaking a monitor mix.

[@meruemu]

Very nice overview... I have a KPA and i'm thinking of going Fractal, your video is very convincing. I only have one question, how do you manage to get a so clean tone, with absolutely NO NOISE, using bridge humbucker, high gain model, and in front of your screen ??!! If i'm playing high gain stuff in front of my computer screen i get insane noise... Hope you can answer ! Cheers

[@LeonTodd]

The input circuitry headroom and the input gate is amazing on this for noise management. Gamechanger!

[@josuastangl7140]

12:11 thx for my daily dose of Periphery, much appreciated!

[@tikhoav3315]

So then, the ultimate question is whether or not you would be willing to part with your analog amps for this unit. I own an axe 2 xl+, which is a solid unit, but i would never get rid of my mesas, marshall or evh for it. Do you think at this point the axe is good enough to ditch the bulky, knob-riddled, oldschool-cool space-heater amps?

[@LeonTodd]

I haven't gigged with an amp for over 4 years now, and I've been using this to record with pretty much exclusively since I got it so that's a yes from me. Do I want to get rid of my amps? Totally different question when you're asking a gear addict like me :D

[@stepitupandgo67]

I wonder if Hanz Zimmer has one....

[@patrickmoore3672]

I’m torn. I want the III but I want the FM3 too. I have to sell my II and my MFC-101 plus some savings to get the III. Or I could get the FM3 and an FC-6 and keep my savings. I just don’t know what to do.

[@3745green]

I was having this same issue. But since I use my ax8 for live use 90% of the time, I'm sold on the fm3 and fc12. Can't wait for my number to come up on the wait list.

[@brevink01]

Hi Leon. First, Great videos you put on! I was wondering how do you use the axefx live.. with a 4x12 or frfr? Thanks!

[@LeonTodd]

I run it direct to FOH and I use in ear monitors to hear myself and the rest of the band. have gigged with a 4x12 and FRFR in the past and they're all great options!

[@ClementOchunStudio]

It just made me want to buy one, period... Haha

[@pluginparadise]

Hey guys, for those of you who would like an extra 2 or 4 switches, we’ve got you covered! www.ottercustomdesign.com/product-page/ocd-duo-for-fractal-audio-fc-6-fc-12-fm-3

[@LeonTodd]

That's super handy!

[@MichaelMoore-nx5ue]

What is the best power amp to use for the Axe effect 3 ?

[@MesaGuitarGuy]

hi Leon, not sure if you've shown this already, but what does the bass guitar chain look like? thanks!

[@LeonTodd]

For the Ragdoll live preset it's B7K - svt - York audio 2x10 ampeg ir

[@mostresticator5]

besides the ins and outs, are all those parameters available in the fm3 software?

[@LeonTodd]

Yes!

[@jessenicholson1777]

Thanks for this video. First...wow, this came out in 2018? I’ve had my Axe FX II Mark II for I think 8 years now and I keep asking myself if I should upgrade to this. Tell me if this generalization sounds right. For someone who runs pretty straightforward patches like me and doesn’t max out the CPU on the II, the real benefit with the 3 is that a lot of great sounding stuff is just a stock feature? What I mean is that you can do things like cloud reverbs on a II, but there is no stock setting for it and you have to really know what you’re doing to figure it out. That’s what’s been holding me back. I feel like the main benefit is just less work for great sounds.

[@LeonTodd]

The III is a lot easier and faster to dial in, for sure

[@knox2622]

Why does 6:59 sound so familiar? What song?

[@shanewilliams4369]

Your channel convinced me on the Axe FX III over spending $2K more on a Diezel VH4. The Axe is CHEAP compared to just one boutique amp head (not including cab) and yet can "authentically" simulate pretty much any amp or your own unique tone. Factor in the cost of the thousands of Cab IRs (and effects) you have access to that you just can't do in the real world. It's an amazing piece of gear. It has inspired me to learn so many classic songs because the Axe can nail the original tone and effects. I don't recommend it for people with OCD as you'll spend the rest of your life tweaking :)

[@LeonTodd]

No tubes to maintain, no issues with having to scale the volume - happy days!

[@vaughanmacegan4012]

Yeah, it's great providing you can come up with the $7,700. For those of us not made of money it will never happen. And judging by the amount of guitars that Leon Todd has money doesn't seem to be a problem.

[@davidhendrox]

being able to use the unit as a standalone sound card is also amazing.. sorted out many things.. ordered one and waiting for arrival

[@SilentNightBodomNight]

One day I’ll be able to afford one of these

[@paperbagaudio5450]

So, Leon, do you use the Axe FX or Boss GT1000 or Bias Amp... etc?

[@LeonTodd]

Axe-Fx is the first choice, use it on just about everything

[@paperbagaudio5450]

​@@LeonTodd Thanks Leon. The stock Boss GT-1000 patches aren't particularly good. But after hearing patches by Glenn DeLaune, I ordered the Boss GT-1000. Hope I don't regret it. I guess the Axe FX has some advantages in terms of customization and ease of programming. Maybe I'll do a demo with Glenn's patches when it arrives.

[@LeonTodd]

@@paperbagaudio5450 Glenn does some of the very presets in the business. GT-1000 delivers a lot at a price point not many others are hitting.

[@AleksmusBarsov]

Видео отличное😎👍👍

[@jesus4pincho]

I want the IR from the precision drive :( can anyone give me a link or smth??

[@LeonTodd]

Here forum.fractalaudio.com/threads/horizon-devices-precision-drive.152815/

[@vaughanmacegan4012]

I cant afford the $4,100 AUD Axe FXIII, $1,50O AUD foot controller, and around $1,900 AUD for a speaker to use the Axe FX. That's $7,500 AUD without postage and without an expression pedal ($7,700 with it), so, with your extensive experience can you recommend something a little less expensive? How about the Kemper Profiler Floor unit, the Helix, the Mooer GE 300, the HotTone Ampero, the Boss GT 1000 which of these are the best for those of us who actually have a budget?

[@LeonTodd]

Grab a used AX8 or get on the FM3 waitlist.

[@vaughanmacegan4012]

@@LeonTodd Ok, being in the know do you have any idea how much the FM3 will retail for here in Australia? Without the actual unit I will need at least the (3 buttons only on the fm3) FC6 $887 AUD and the Atomic Wedge $1,899 AUD and a Foot Controller EV1 $259 AUD and without the unit are over the $3,000 AUD mark. All up it's going to cost *well* over $4,000. Now I'm sure all the Australian musicians you know are well off and can afford a new Gibson whenever they feel like it, but, some of us cannot. So do you absolutely think this is the best bang for your buck?

[@vaughanmacegan4012]

Ill ask again, do you absolutely think the FM3 is the best bang for your buck?

[@LeonTodd]

@@vaughanmacegan4012 if you're going the modelling route, you're going to need to spend money on some kind of monitoring solution so that doesn't factor into the discussion around which modeller is the best value - you could make the same argument about the Kemper ($3600AUD for an unpowered version with no controller, no software based editor and less routing options/effects features). What's your intended use case?

[@vaughanmacegan4012]

@@LeonTodd Well, it sort of does. Any type of FRFR speaker regardless of make is going to colour the sound. So we must buy the gear that is going to make to best possible use of the hardware to get the best sound possible and that is the Atomic Wedge, that costs almost $2,000. With my current setup I have an FRFR Mackie speaker attached to my "very old" Eleven Rack, it was the only thing I could afford at the time and was very pleased with it - times have moved on, if it were any other system including a Kemper I would make use of that speaker, but, with an Fractal I would need to upgrade everything. I saw reviews a few years back on the Axe FX and FRFR solutions that said that the Wedge was the only good solution, everything else was substandard - so that makes it a factor, it doesn't play nice with other things and you bend over and and hand them the lubricant. The use is for recording and gigging, I can do that with the "very old" Eleven Rack, into ProTools (with monitors), I have a rack case that allows me to pull it in and out of the computer system, use the MIDI floorboard, and the very light speaker that weighs a lot less than the old Fender combo. I had even managed to save up some dollars enough to buy any hardware solution - except a full Axe FX III system - then I developed a sore tooth and the dentist is slowly destroying those savings which is why I need best bang for buck, I have been slowly using more and more of Bias products, but I can't use these live, and I can't wait another 3 years only to have another emergency to eat into those savings. If a Mooer GE 300 is it, or a Boss GT1000, than so be it. I saw a review of the Ax8 and wasn't impressed, the Helix lite performed better, and I've heard a monstrous metal sound through the latter.

[@gabrielebarbaraci3161]

Do You teach guitar also online?

[@LeonTodd]

I do. If you're interested flick me an email

[@brianh395]

I've never seen you not be able to dial in a great tone with the Axe-Fx III, wish it was that easy for me. LOL!!!

[@dinzons92]

can't afford 😒 stuck with mooer ge300

[@vaughanmacegan4012]

Where did you get it from? I can't find any shops that have it stocked in Australia.

[@AndreiGrozea]

wait what? it's been a year since it came out? :|

[@LeonTodd]

More than that. I got mine August last year though

[@ianlarson1744]

Hey Leon. Thought this might be interesting? Just bought the English made Marshall SV20H plexi .This amp is incredible! Very loud for twenty watts! Exactly like my hundred watt super lead I got in 96. However I sold it due to the fact I could never make it sound good unless I turned it up? 100 watts is too loud? I was sure at 20 watts this would cure my plexi issues! Here's the crux. I also have an English made JCM 2000 50 watt. That I bought on a whim. I've never thought much of this amp. Mainly because I bought it for nothing! I did an extensive a/b between the two and was surprised and also disappointed at the results. Mainly because I thought the new Marshall would cure my plexi blues. However in an extensive a/b comparison, I found the DSL 2000/50 watt not to be an exact comparison, but almost exactly the same. So I'm thinking? Both pcb? These amps are the same amps I think? Except the 2000/50 watt is marginally louder. Same tube complement? Why the cost? And why isn't this amp more highly regarded?

[@LucasLeCompteMusic]

I am still mad that it cant turn into a jet and fly me to an island.

[@ghislainfontainebujold7834]

Heard it's comming in the next fw update

[@vaughanmacegan4012]

Make sure that island has electrical system otherwise you are looking at an expensive paper weight :)

[@AleksmusBarsov]

Подписка и лайк😎👍👍👍👍👍👍💐

[@themodernguitarist]

Guess I gotta sell my Helix.

[@unktopia]

I'm selling mine as soon as I get the fm3. It's been a decent unit but the reality is Fractal does it better.

[@stepitupandgo67]

not necessarily,...I had a helix...and it was great,..but..yeah...I did sell it and get the axe fx 3...it's so killer...blows the helix out of the water...and it should for the money!! worth it if you can swing it...if not, there are plenty of excellent tones to be had out of the helix...totally respectable unit ...

[@belladosemusic3178]

I should not have watched this. Want has turned into need....and i love my AX8....but......

[@FilthyPhilify]

This box box keeps getting better and better doesn't it? I'm the one who tone matched the Precision Drive, hop on over to the forum to get the IRs: forum.fractalaudio.com/threads/horizon-devices-precision-drive.152815/

[@LeonTodd]

Legendary work mate!

[@FilthyPhilify]

@@LeonTodd someone tell Misha :P

[@matthewtayloryowieresearch1912]

If a guitar or amplifier, pedal, multi-fx, gear - fails to inspire you ? You've just wasted your money, basically. May as well as p*ssed it up the wall at the Coogee Bay Hotel at 1.10am on a Friday night? Do Not Pass Go Do Not Collect $200. I like your style Leon, you are not the kind of gearhead that is just 'gear for gear's sake' musician, you find what inspires you / works / sounds great / is user friendly and you stick to it. You use what you have for the most part & that's the main thing, guitars amps or gear sitting neglected forlorn ignored idle rotting away just isn't on! In fact, it's off. If you don't use gear at all, haven't touched it for a year or more is a good indication, sell swap donate it but don't let it sit unused for a month of Sundays ffs!?. Keep up the great work, this Axe-III is the lizards gizzards, bees knees & ducks nuts deadly sh*t bra - there's just about nothing you can't do with this beast, gr8 4u Leon! Speaking of far... Far too much guitar is grossly inadequate, insufficiently delinquent, nowhere near enough & should be punishable with 50 lashes of the cat-o-nine-tails 🎸 Didyabringyabongalong Station, Central QLD 🌡 where trees chase the dogs around! P.S. your cat is humungous bra, it's huuuge, felix familiaris uber alles 🐱

[@marcofioravanti4176]

But...Does it djent? ;-D

[@marcofioravanti4176]

Haha, thanks. Look at this, please completely...: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKLCen6nodp3ia8

[@go4384]

Someone really has GAS

[@jeffauble7207]

Very pricey tho

[@LeonTodd]

The upcoming FM3 will tickle that fractal itch at a much lower price point though which is nice.

[@lyrasimo]

ikr.....toy for rich people

[@LeonTodd]

As I said in the recap at the end, it's not for everyone but if you're a working musician it replaces a lot of expensive gear flawlessly.

[@stevelow_rock]

In any case less then a boutique amp....

[@chrisact9601]

@@stevelow_rock Yep, in Australia, an AxeFX3 is about half the cost of a Friedman BE100 with quad.

[@tonedriverss8629]

With this and todays tech , the big old heavy tube amps have gone the way of old tube TV"s went years ago . Its evolution . The old tube amps are just one trick ponies of the past . Pretty useless in todays times and requirements . Makes me laugh when the die hards try to say that the SS and or digital dont sound like their old goat tube amps ... ha ha but their old tube dinosaurs cant do 1/100th of the modern digital stuff which blows them away completely in so many ways ..... esp in basic tone ! Its a new world . Trucking big old heavy delicate old fragile glass tube amps and cabs to a gig or anywhere is ridiculous now a days . Truth . Oh and you have some of the best vids on KZbin . So very well done my Aussie friend . Cheers from Canada .

[@LeonTodd]

Cheers mate! Canada is right up at the top of places i want to visit - don't think I've ever met a Canadian who isn't cool.

[@tonedriverss8629]

@@LeonTodd You got that right bro ! Come in winter , we be not just cool but frozen solid... lol . Much respect to you bro , rock-on . Much enjoy every one of your vids . Top class work every time buddy !

[@billyarsenault1970]

Obviously there’s some very good drugs in Canada too -you should slow down on your intake. Maybe Canada will outlaw Sex and Tube Amps and only allow Masturbation and Fractals. Then you could have the whole country to yourself. The prices on vintage tube amps has doubled since simulations became useful. As well as vintage speakers and cabinets. They are now more sought after than ever before. Coincidence? If your evolution theory was accurate- wouldn’t all this obsolete, useless, heavy, out dated gear be getting less desirable. Even all brands and types of modern tube amps are selling like there’s no tomorrow. Friedman can’t even keep up with demand for the new JJ Junior. Anyway - who in hell besides some clueless millennials would want their Marshall SuperLead to do 100 different things? I am still in total awe everyday from the 1 trick my old pony does perfectly that the new robot ponies can only try to imitate - all those rich harmonics ringing out everywhere and that pure flawless overdrive, headroom for years and most importantly of course-the feel of playing it through a 4x12 of 1970’s GreenBacks. The magic that comes out of that black 100 watt box is the real deal. Why settle for less or “close enough” if I don’t have too. I’m no purist. Wouldn’t be a fan of Leon if I was. I mostly use channel switching Marshalls and Eventides and I love them. And Leon has me convinced that the new Fractal will still have its uses for me even though I already have my Sound and Rig dialed in. But don’t even look sideways at my 1973 modified SuperLead. I could exist ,play live and record without everything else. (Not saying I wouldn’t shed a tear losing the Eventide). I am very glad we are now able to simplify our stereo live rigs when needed and make sessions and rehearsals more productive- but watch Leon’s face when he plays thru the Soldano or JTM. The eyes don’t lie. So don’t fool yourself. There’s no emulation for that sensation- and most serious guitarist are not going to willingly give that feeling up in this lifetime just because modern gear is more convenient.

[@rickfeith6372]

So you're basically saying its a failure on every level? Gotcha. Why have a little "magic box" when you can have a refrigerator sized rack with 4 full stacks of tube goodness and a kitchen table sized pedalboard? Real guitarists NEED huge gear, and have you ever tried troubleshooting that voodoo heeby jeeby thing?? Its like the frikkin Matrix in there. I need this. Kickstarter?

[@veerchasm1]

Trash it, the 4 will come out in a week

[@LeonTodd]

Nek minnit 5

[@Starch1b2c3d4a]

Kemper.

[@bibekrulez]

its very bad tone

[@mrchrisbeaver]

It sounds great, I'm still happy with my Axe fx 2 XL for now but will get an Axe 3 in a couple of years once the firmware improvements advance some more and make it seem like a worthwhile jump