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Description
Unleash the full potential of your music with the Fractal Audio Axe-Fx 2 XL+, a powerhouse in the world of effects processors. Designed for the discerning musician, this unit combines the cutting-edge TigerSHARC dual processing technology with an astounding range of features that cater to both studio professionals and live performers. The Axe-Fx 2 XL+ introduces an upgraded, backlit LCD screen for easy navigation and a lower noise floor that ensures pristine sound quality, making it an indispensable tool for sculpting your sound.
Dive into a universe of tonal possibilities with over 180 meticulously modeled amplifier types and more than 750 speaker simulations, allowing you to create your own signature sound with unparalleled precision. Whether you're crafting lush soundscapes or dialing in searing leads, the Axe-Fx 2 XL+ has you covered with over 100 DSP-powered effects, including classic overdrives, intricate reverbs, and unique effects like the rotary speaker and Uni-Vibe.
With its intuitive interface featuring a central Value knob, Quick Control knobs, and FASLINK XLR connectivity, this unit is as user-friendly as it is versatile. Connect seamlessly with your setup via MIDI or Ethernet, and enjoy the convenience of 768 customizable presets and SCENE functionality for instant recall of your favorite combinations. Whether you're in the studio or on stage, the Axe-Fx 2 XL+ is your ultimate partner in musical innovation.
Key Features:
- TigerSHARC dual processing technology
- Backlit LCD screen for improved visibility
- Over 180 amp models and 750+ speaker simulations
- 100+ DSP-powered effects, including 30 overdrives and 19 reverbs
- FASLINK XLR connectivity and MIDI in/out
- 768 presets with SCENE functionality for quick recall
- User-friendly interface with central Value knob and Quick Control knobs
Product specs
| Brand | Fractal Audio |
| Model | Axe-FX II XL+ |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2015 - 2018 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Guitar Modeling Amps |
| Color Family | Black |
| Pedal Format | Rackmount |
FAQs
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What are the key differences between the Axe-Fx II XL and the XL+?
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The Axe-Fx II XL+ features an updated LCD screen and controller chips, resulting in a lower noise floor compared to the XL model. The CPU, RAM, and processing power remain the same between the two models.
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How many amp models and effects are available on the Axe-Fx II XL+?
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The Axe-Fx II XL+ offers an extensive range of amp models and effects, providing users with a versatile tool for experimenting with various sounds and musical styles.
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Is the Axe-Fx II XL+ suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Axe-Fx II XL+ is designed for both studio and live performance use, offering high-quality amp modeling and effects that can be easily integrated into live setups.
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Does the Axe-Fx II XL+ support MIDI control?
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The Axe-Fx II XL+ supports MIDI control, allowing users to integrate it seamlessly with other MIDI-compatible equipment for enhanced performance flexibility.
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Can the Axe-Fx II XL+ be used for bass guitar processing?
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Yes, the Axe-Fx II XL+ can be used for bass guitar processing, offering a wide range of amp models and effects tailored to bass guitar tones.
Videos
G66
Intro to the Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II XL+
Intro to the Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II XL+
G66
FRACTAL AUDIO AXEFX II XL+ DEMO - THE KING OF TONE!
Xander Raymond Charles
Reviews
PROS
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Can achieve any tone across genres with third-party IRs and presets
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Durable, touring bands use it live with great success
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Versatile with a vast array of effects, amps, and cab IRs
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Offers endless possibilities for live and studio use
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Provides complete control over tone, inspiring creativity
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High-quality sound, almost indistinguishable from real tube amps
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Compact, powerful solution in just 2 rack spaces
CONS
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Internal components like the fan may be prone to damage during shipping
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DSP (Digital Signal Processor) may fail and is no longer manufactured, making repairs difficult
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Some users report the emulated sounds feel less authentic over time
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fractal Audio Axe-Fx 2 XL+.
Features and functionality
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The Axe-Fx 2 XL+ has access to ARES firmware, enhancing its DSP capabilities with a wide range of amp models.
Source -
The Axe-Fx III's ability to run dual amps is limited by heavy effects on the Axe-Fx II XL+ due to processing power constraints.
Source -
The Axe-Fx II's looper feature is noted for being difficult to find in other DSP plugin worlds, adding unique functionality to its offerings.
Source
Software and compatibility
User experience
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Some users have reported difficulty replicating specific tones from older models like the Bogner, Diezel, and Friedman on newer units.
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Owners report preset switching on the Axe-Fx II can cause sound dropouts, a problem mitigated by programming patches to run all sounds simultaneously.
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Owners have used the Axe-Fx II XL+ for extensive periods, with some reporting over 1,000 gigs, attesting to its durability and reliability over time.
Source
Build quality
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The screen on the Axe-Fx 2 XL+ may be prone to failure, and replacement parts are reportedly unavailable from Fractal Audio.
Source
Comparisons
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Some users find the tonal difference between the Axe-Fx 2 and Axe-Fx 3 to be significant, particularly with certain amp models.
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The Axe-Fx II XL+ was compared to the Tonex, showing nearly indistinguishable sound quality when both units utilized IR loading, highlighting the enduring quality of the Axe-Fx models.
Source
Value and pricing
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Owners argue that while the Axe-Fx 2 XL+ is older, it still offers impressive tones and effects, making it a viable budget-friendly option compared to newer models.
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A user described the Axe-Fx II as edging out the Helix in head-to-head comparisons, especially in studio settings, suggesting it offers superior sound quality for its price point.
Source
Use cases and applications
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When used with an FX return on a Mesa amp, disabling cabinet modeling on the Axe-Fx II XL+ is recommended to avoid tonal imbalance.
Source -
Metallica reportedly still uses the Axe-Fx II in their setups, indicating its capability to produce high-quality professional tones suited for live performances.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 8 Reviews and 31 Ratings
144
AMAZING
THE BEST PROCESSOR I EVER USED! THE TONES ARE AMAZING! THEY HAVE A LOT OF AMP SIM AND IR!
Preferred Settings + Usage:
pls use a Impulse Response and be realistic.
404
The Ultimate Solution
The Fractal Audio Axe-Fx 2 XL with MFC-101 Mark III (MIDI Foot Controller) is the Ultimate Solution for every Guitar Fan. Incredible sound and endless possibilities. I own a many single & multi Effects, but Axe-FX 2 XL give me everything what I need for live & studio job.
Fractal is just the greatest
I am in love with this device, is not just the tons of effects but the great quantity of amps and cabs IR´s Absolutely worth the money.
119
A life changer
It's the perfect tool for people who want the perfect guitar tone. Maybe it's not 100% like the real Tube Amps but it's more than enough.
hi
120
Versatility to the max
How about the ability to have a myriad of sounds at your disposal? It's an Axe FX, do I really need to say more about it?
212
Amazing Preamp and FX Processor
I'm still new on it cause I just bought it less than 3 days ago but it's really amazing and useful in studio and I think also for live shows but I'm still a rookie...
41029
It looks like a real hassle to program. Report back when you master it please! Do you have experience with enough the analog gear it models to make a fair judgement of the sound in a live setting using a power amp and cab or going straight into the board?
41029
more review! I tried the fractal and was not as wowed as I hoped to be, but it sounds really fantastic and the possibilities are pretty endless with all that DSP power.
Artist usage
Add artist
Hetfield using axe fx 2 xl in "worldwired" tour
In this video, you can see Axe-Fx 2 XL+ at 14:15 in Kirk's rack.
In this Rig Rundown feature for Premier Guitar magazine, longtime U2 guitar tech Dallas Schoo shows off Edge's 2018 touring rig, which includes two Axe-FX II XL units.
As stated in an official press release in the Fractal Audio forums.
Welcome the incredible Joe Satriani to the ever-growing list of top-name players using Fractal Audio Systems products. We’ve been working with Joe for some time after being introduced by a good mutual friend. Here’s what he had to say about the Axe-Fx II XL+:
“Fractal Audio’s Axe-Fx II is a tone-generating powerhouse. I’ve been using writing, recording and live performance. It always delivers the goods. We have several units with us on the “Shockwave to Surfing” *[*sic]Tour. Mike Keneally and I both have them integrated into our rigs. They’re rock solid, and sound great every night. The shows wouldn’t be as fun and exciting without them.“
@13:30 Kirk's tech suggest that James/Kirk and Rob have very similar racks
""Generally we're setting it up with a Hi-Watt style 'Hi-Power' head, through a 4x12 cab setting and a Master Fuzz [based on the Maestro FZ-1 Fuzztone]."
The Nameless Ghoul from the band Ghost is confirmed to have used the Fractal Audio Axe-Fx 2 XL+ during live performances, particularly after the release of their second album, Infestissumam. This shift from using Orange amps, such as the Thunderverb, to Fractal Audio products was made to facilitate easy setup and maintain a clean stage for their theatrical shows. The use of Fractal Audio gear was confirmed through correspondence between myself and with different members of Ghost.
The amp can be seen on this video.
According to the Premier Guitar's interview, one of the pedals Summers is using is the Fractal Axe FX II XL+ multi-fx processor.
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In a tweet made by Ichika on June 28th, 2018, he was seen using an XL+ variant of the Fractal Axe-FX II.
Album Usage
The Fractal Audio Axe-Fx 2 XL+ has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fractal Audio Axe-Fx 2 XL+, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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Community setups
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