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14 ADDITIONAL TOPICS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
: Q Why all the technical terminology?
: A The language of the FM3 is for the most part the universal language of professional audio. This allows the
FM3 to be used by casual and professional players, producers, engineers, and beyond. The terminology
and concepts you will use and learn are accordingly not unique to the FM3. Understanding them will help
you to master the craft of pro audio and to communicate with others. At the same time, the FM3 is easier
than ever, with dedicated controls and a clear interface that doesn’t distract or disrupt the creative flow.
: Q What is “FRFR”?
: A FRFR stands for “full-range, flat response.” This acronym is used to describe a “neutral”
speaker or speaker system that is designed to reproduce the entire audible spectrum of
20 Hz – 20kHz without emphasis. Examples of FRFR systems would include high-quality
studio monitors and properly designed PA systems or monitors. Many manufacturers are
also now offering FRFR systems designed specically for direct guitar applications.
: Q How do I upgrade the rmware of my FM3?
: A Use Fractal-Bot. See p. 100.
: Q Can I load my presets from the Axe-FxIII into the FM3 (or vice versa)?
: A Yes! Axe-Edit and FM3 Edit have both been updated for cross compatibility. The FM3 will do
its best to interpret larger Axe-Fx III presets but you should always check the results.
The top 4 rows and rst 12 columns of an Axe-Fx III preset are imported rst. This aligns the top-left of the
FM3 grid with the Axe-Fx III grid. Any incompatible block will be replaced by a shunt.
Blocks in rows 5 and 6 as well as columns 13 and 14 of the Axe-Fx III preset are added to the rst available
spaces of the FM3 preset. Incompatible blocks will not be imported.
When converting an Axe-Fx III preset to an FM3 preset it is possible to have more blocks than the CPU
can handle. If this happens, the FM3 device will display a blinking red banner in the top-left of the HOME
screen that reads “CPU Limit - Muted”. The FM3 will stop processing audio but allow you to delete and/or
recongure the blocks as needed.
In regards to the CAB block, an Axe-Fx III preset that has bank USER 2 selected will be changed to USER 1
as the FM3 does not have a User 2 bank. Also note, that only “Cab 1” and “Cab 2” selections from the Axe-
Fx III preset will be imported as the FM3 only has two selectable cabinets.
: Q What about presets from the Axe-Fx II, AX8 or FX8?
: A No, these presets are not cross-compatible, but you can generally transfer parameter settings
by hand with good results. As of this writing, all of the same amp models are present, and
“factory” speaker cabs of the older products are present in the “Legacy” bank on the FM3.
: Q My expression pedal isn’t working. What should I do?
: A Expression pedals need to be calibrated and assigned to a parameter, controller or remote function. See
“Expression Pedals” on p. 10 for a basic overview. Are you using a TRS cable? Is it connected to the correct
port on the FM3? Is it actually an expression pedal? Did you set up a Modier as described in Section 9?
: Q My FM3 won’t start up correctly.
: A Please see “Recovery” on p. 102.
: Q My FM3 seems quiet at default settings.
: A By default, analog outputs 1 is set to -10dBV. To change to +4dBu, use the Output
Level parameters for Out 1 on the Audio page of the I/O menu under SETUP.