1
1 INTRODUCTION
The new FM9 from Fractal Audio Systems is an all-in-one amp modeler, effects processor, foot controller, audio interface—
and more—designed for professional stage/studio use and personal enjoyment. With four DSP cores, the FM9 is the most
powerful floor unit ever produced by Fractal Audio, and it features a impressive list of technologies and features from the
award-winning Axe-Fx III, FM3, and FC Controllers: our industry-leading amp modeling, UltraRes™ IR speaker cab simulation,
a suite of our legendary stompbox and studio effects, expandable FC foot switching, incredibly flexible I/O, 8x8 USB audio
interface capabilities, a world-class Mac/PC editor, and more.
The centerpiece of the FM9 is “Cygnus”, the latest version of Fractal Audio’s critically acclaimed amp modeling technology.
Cygnus uses Fractal’s proprietary SpectrumTrack™ technology, which improves the response of amp models across the
entire range of input levels, especially for amps with cascaded gain stages. The result is truer and more dynamic “voicing,”
plus exceptionally satisfying “chugs.” The FM9’s two “amp blocks” each have four channels which can run any of 280+
vintage, modern, and original models covering everything from pristine clean, to edge of breakup, from crunchy overdrive to
modern distortion to insane gain. The FM9 also includes the entire Ultra-Res™ speaker cabinet collection from the Axe-Fx
III, with 2,200+ “Factory” cabs including selections from the today’s best producers, plus 1,024 “User” locations for loading
your own Impulse Responses (“IRs”).
The FM9 is an outstanding multi-effects unit, packed with hundreds of incredible stomp box and studio effects, with
accurate recreations of many classics, plus exciting originals. Selections include 57+ drive pedal models, dozens of delays,
numerous choruses, flangers, phasers, tremolo, and other modulation effects, 50+ reverb types from classic spring to real
spaces and beyond, multiple compressors, wahs, EQs and lters, a 2-minute looper, an entire suite of pitch effects including
detune, harmony, and virtual capo, plus rotary, synth, “plex” effects including shimmer, and much more.
The FM9 features the same audiophile signal path design as the Axe-Fx III for the utmost in sonic performance and signal
integrity. Physically, it is built tough for the road, with a rugged 16-gauge steel chassis and protective endcaps that double
as feet. The unit is remarkably easy to use, with intuitive and comfortable controls, plus the same large, full-color main
display as the Axe-Fx III and FM3. Nine on-board footswitches, each with its own vari-color LED ring and mini LCD display,
provide both tap and hold functions that can be customized to control countless aspects of your rig in realtime. “Layouts”
then provide nine different complete sets of footswitch functions. At the same time, a FASLINK II port allows connecting up
to two more Fractal Audio FC-12 or FC-6 foot controllers for extended foot control real estate or remote control.
The FM9 has numerous inputs and outputs for a great range of different setups. Analog inputs include Fractal Audio’s
“Secret Sauce” 1/4” instrument input, plus two separate stereo pairs of balanced 1/4” jacks for use as “aux” ins or “returns.”
The main stereo output is equipped with both XLR and 1/4” outs, plus a headphones jack. Two additional independent
stereo outputs — one XLR and one 1/4” — can be used as “aux” outs or “sends.” All 1/4” outs feature Fractal Audio’s
Humbuster™ technology to help combat noisy ground loops. Digital I/O includes 48k SPDIF in and out, plus 5-pin MIDI in
and out/thru. Finally, three on-board jacks each allow you to connect an external switch or expression pedal such as the
Fractal Audio EV-1.
The FM9 also serves as a high-quality USB Audio interface with “8x8” recording and playback capabilities. You can record
processed signals, a “DI” for re-amping, and stereo aux inputs. Audio can be played back directly to the unit’s outputs (for
DAW monitoring or “backing tracks,” for example) or routed through the FM9 for re-amping or for effects processing like a
virtual plugin.
FM9-EDIT, a full-featured software editor, is included free. The FM9 is also fully compatible with Fractal-Bot for preset
sharing, easy backups/restoration, plus rmware updates in the tradition of continual improvement that has become a
hallmark of Fractal Audio.
Above all, the FM9 was designed — “by musicians for musicians” — to deliver Fractal Audio’s uncompromising signature
sound quality, fantastic features, and roadworthy reliability in a highly portable format that we trust you will both appreciate
and enjoy. We thank you as always for choosing Fractal Audio Systems.
Fractal Audio Systems
August 2021
WELCOME
1 INTRODUCTION
To Next Page
Loading...
