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14 ADDITIONAL TOPICS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
: Q Why all the technical terminology?
: A The language of the FM9 is for the most part the universal language of professional audio. This allows the
FM9 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 FM9. Understanding them will help
you to master the craft of pro audio and to communicate with others. At the same time, the FM9 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 FM9?
: A Use Fractal-Bot. See p. 101.
: Q Can I load my presets from the Axe-FxIII or FM3 into the FM9 (or vice versa)?
: A Yes! Axe-Edit, FM3-Edit, and FM9 Edit are mostly cross-compatible. The FM9 will do its
best to interpret larger Axe-Fx III presets but you should always check the results.
The Axe-Fx III has a larger inventory. Any missing blocks will be replaced by shunts.
When converting an Axe-Fx III preset it is possible to have more blocks than the CPU can handle. If this
happens, the FM9 will display a blinking red banner in the top-left of the HOME screen that reads “CPU
Limit - Muted”. The FM9 will stop processing audio but allow you to delete and/or recongure the blocks
as needed.
Certain CAB block settings must also be considered. An Axe-Fx III preset that has bank USER 2 selected
will be changed to USER 1 since the FM9 has only one bank. Also note, that “Cab 3” and “Cab 4” settings
from an Axe-Fx III preset will NOT be imported since the FM9 allows only two IRs per Cab block.
: 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 FM9.
: 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 FM9? Is it actually an expression pedal? Did you set up a Modier as described in Section 9.
: Q My FM9 won’t start up correctly.
: A Please see “Recovery” on p. 103.
: Q My FM9 seems quiet at default settings.
: A By default, analog outputs 1 and 2 are set to -10dBV. To change to +4dBu,
use the Output Level parameters in Setup: I/O: Audio.