Fractal Audio Axe-Fx 2 XL+

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$850.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (31)

1 Critic Review

8 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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1 community setup

18 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jul 06, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 6, 2026.

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4.0 (33)

$850.00 4 available Used

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Average Price: $850

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

In the Effects Processors category, Fractal Audio Axe-Fx 2 XL+ is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Standard

High-end

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Description

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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

What are the key differences between the Axe-Fx II XL and the XL+?: 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.
How many amp models and effects are available on the Axe-Fx II XL+?: 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.
Is the Axe-Fx II XL+ suitable for live performances?: 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.
Does the Axe-Fx II XL+ support MIDI control?: The Axe-Fx II XL+ supports MIDI control, allowing users to integrate it seamlessly with other MIDI-compatible equipment for enhanced performance flexibility.
Can the Axe-Fx II XL+ be used for bass guitar processing?: 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

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Intro to the Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II XL+

G66

FRACTAL AUDIO AXEFX II XL+ DEMO - THE KING OF TONE!

Xander Raymond Charles

Reviews

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PROS

Can achieve any tone across genres with third-party IRs and presets
Durable, touring bands use it live with great success
Versatile with a vast array of effects, amps, and cab IRs
Offers endless possibilities for live and studio use
Provides complete control over tone, inspiring creativity
High-quality sound, almost indistinguishable from real tube amps
Compact, powerful solution in just 2 rack spaces

CONS

Internal components like the fan may be prone to damage during shipping
DSP (Digital Signal Processor) may fail and is no longer manufactured, making repairs difficult
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.
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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.
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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.
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Software and compatibility

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Axe Edit software compatibility issues may arise with future Mac OS updates, potentially affecting long-term usability.
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The Axe-Fx II XL+ includes a built-in USB audio interface with S/PDIF digital I/O, useful for integration with PC audio setups.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Metallica reportedly still uses the Axe-Fx II in their setups, indicating its capability to produce high-quality professional tones suited for live performances.
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Mods and upgrades

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The Behringer FCB1010 foot controller, combined with UNO firmware, is noted as a cost-effective alternative to the MFC-101 for controlling the Axe-Fx.
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Critic Reviews

Fractal Axe-Fx II XL+ Preamp/Effects Processor - Darth Phineas

darthphineas.com

The Fractal Audio Axe-Fx II XL+ is a powerhouse of amp modeling and effects processing, earning its place among top musicians like Steve Vai and Metallica. With over 180 amp models and a plethora of effects, it offers vast tonal flexibility. The intuitive Axe-Edit software simplifies navigation, making it user-friendly despite its complexity. While the unit's depth might be overwhelming, its SCENE feature and robust support system make it a gigging musician's dream. However, some may find the lack of certain amp models, like the ADA MP-1, a minor drawback. Overall, it's a highly versatile tool for both studio and live settings.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 8 Reviews and 31 Ratings

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4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

yigit_erdogan

144

almost 2 years ago

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.

Roles:

Guitarist Composer

Genres:

Metal swedish metal prog metal

From Gear Setup

audiojunky

404

almost 10 years ago

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.

jorgeespinosachacon

over 6 years ago

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.

alex_feist

119

about 8 years ago

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.

danielsantillan

8 years ago about 8 years ago

mightyjake182

120

almost 9 years ago

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?

rolandomorales

212

over 10 years ago

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...

jimmarchi1

41029

10 years ago over 10 years ago

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?

dillonski

almost 11 years ago

The Ultimate Modern Rig

The Axe-Fx allows me, as a musician, to have complete control over my tone and to create any sound I want. It's pretty much a box of inspiration.

jimmarchi1

41029

11 years ago almost 11 years ago

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.