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Average Price: $582

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Description

Introducing the Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor, the go-to gear for the discerning musician. This state-of-the-art processor fuses the celebrated amp modeling and effect simulations of the Axe FX series into a streamlined, stage-ready floorboard. It boasts a user-friendly interface, a plethora of amp/cab models, a wide array of effects, and additional features that make it a standout in its category. Powered by the Quantum Amp Modeling technology, it offers 200+ models to choose from. This, combined with the Ultra-Res Speaker Simulation offering 700+ cab models, ensures you have a myriad of options at your fingertips.

Key Features:

  • Robust Interface: 11 solid state footswitches, 27 three-color LEDs, eight amp control knobs with LED meters, five additional effect knobs, and an LCD display
  • Quantum Amp Modeling with 200+ models and Ultra-Res Speaker Simulation with 700+ cab models
  • A broad spectrum of 130 effects in 20 categories including reverb, overdrive, harmony, and a four-minute stereo looping
  • Additional Features: 512 preset slots, Humbuster ground hum-canceling technology, Secret Sauce circuit, stereo XLR outputs, MIDI in/out, stereo effect loops, USB connectivity

Product specs

Brand Fractal Audio
Model AX8
Finish Black
Year 2015 - 2020
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Modeling Amps, Pedalboard Guitar Amps
Color Family Black
Pedal Format Floor Unit

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Fractal Audio Systems AX8?

The Fractal Audio Systems AX8 is an amp modeler and multi-effects processor designed for guitarists seeking a comprehensive range of amp simulations and effects in a portable floor unit.

Is the Fractal AX8 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Fractal AX8 is well-suited for live performances, offering robust amp modeling and effects capabilities in a durable floor unit, making it ideal for gigging musicians.

How does the AX8 compare to the Fractal FX8?

The AX8 includes amp modeling capabilities, unlike the FX8, which focuses solely on effects. This makes the AX8 more versatile for users needing both high-quality amp simulations and effects.

Can the Fractal AX8 be used with a traditional guitar amp?

Yes, the AX8 can be used with a traditional guitar amp, either through the effects loop or directly into the amp's input, allowing for flexible integration into existing setups.

What kind of power supply does the Fractal AX8 require?

The Fractal AX8 requires a standard AC power supply, which is included with the unit, ensuring it is ready for use out of the box.

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Review Demo - Fractal Audio AX8

Video thumbnail for Review Demo - Fractal Audio AX8 by Premier Guitar

Review Demo - Fractal Audio AX8

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for Fractal AX8 Multi Effects Pedal Review by Guitar Interactive Magazine

Fractal AX8 Multi Effects Pedal Review

Guitar Interactive Magazine

Guitar Interactive Magazine

Video thumbnail for Intro to the Fractal Audio AX8 by G66

Intro to the Fractal Audio AX8

G66

G66

Video thumbnail for Fractal Audio FM3 vs AX8 | Raw Amp Comparison by Frank Steffen Mueller

Fractal Audio FM3 vs AX8 | Raw Amp Comparison

Frank Steffen Mueller

Frank Steffen Mueller

Video thumbnail for Unboxing and First Demo of the Fractal Audio AX8 by Classic Riffs the Easy Way (Classic Riffs)

Unboxing and First Demo of the Fractal Audio AX8

Classic Riffs the Easy Way (Classic Riffs)

Classic Riffs the Easy Way (Classic Riffs)

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional amp models and effects quality

  • Versatile for various music genres

  • Realistic amp and cab simulations

  • Durable build, "built like a tank"

  • Direct USB connection to DAW for easy recording

  • Consistent tone across different venues

  • Infinite tonal possibilities with deep editing tools

  • Can serve as the core of a minimal, efficient rig

  • Offers control over stage and FOH sound simultaneously

  • Supports third-party Cabinet IRs for expanded tonal options

CONS

  • Steep learning curve for programming and tweaking

  • Does not fully replace the sound of a real tube amp for some users

  • Possibilities not endless, leading some to switch to other systems

  • Lack of certain sounds (e.g., specific Randall rigs)

Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 9 Reviews and 29 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
r0yce

Killer One-stop Rig

Being a musician for over a decade and having played all kinds of different gigs and reliability are very important to me. The Fractal AX8 delivers great sounding amp & cab simulation. I love how easy it is to recreate tones that rival my analog rigs. By taking away many of the variables that affect guitar tone (mics, mic positioning, amps, cabs, etc.), I have consistent tone from venue to venue. It conveniently plugs in via USB directly to my workstation and DAW, and its AX8 editing software makes it easy to dive deep into its tone-shaping tools and get the most out of its powerful DSP. I really love having the AX8 in my arsenal!

gtrslmmr

Learning curve....

In my latest band endeavor, I'm just now getting into trying out the Fractal AX8. As some claim this as the latest, greatest thing for guitarists. The hope is that this will be the only gear (along w/ my guitar) that I'll need to take with me for 'fly gigs'. Just throw it into a backpack and go - as you can just plug it into any backline amp, or just run through stage monitors, while also sending a signal to FOH. However, I'm finding it hard to replace the sound of a real tube amp... I'm just not yet convinced, but maybe with a little more 'tweaking' I'll get closer. Right now its a huge learning curve.

N

Best Floor Multi-Effect unit so far.

The AX8 is the same tone as the axe-fx ii with a quicker live setup. The tonal possibilities are pretty much infinite. If you're having trouble frinding a tone you like I suggest using third party Cab IR's .

paddywatermountain

Awesome all in one solution

I owned this as a light version of the Fractal AXE FX II and I was really happy with it. Sadly the possibilities are not endless, so I needed a new amp... changed to Team Kemper

kalen_orr

An efficient, no compromise rig.

This is the core of my tone all in one box. I wanted the most efficient, no compromise rig possible and this does that and more. I can run a cab emulated DI to FOH so I know exactly what I'm sending the sound guy and run a cab on stage for stage volume. The amps are extremely accurate and the response/feel is extremely realistic.

digitaljunkie

Nothing compares to Fractal Audio products

I can't describe how awesome it is without you actually using one yourself. I feel like I have so much control over my tone now.

arturo_mawcinitt

Love this one!

I use it for all my recordings with my band Tritonia

andy_studley

Does it ALL

You can't think of a sound (save for Randall based rigs) that you can't emulate with this thing. Scary good tone.

skylinerr

.

have a few in the effects loop and a little use for pre

Genres:

Artist usage

Add artist
See how James Hetfield uses Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor

James Hetfield

Singer, Guitarist

Metallica

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video we can see Metallica rehearsing, James and Kirk are using the Ax8

See how Les Claypool uses Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor

Les Claypool

Singer, Bassist

Primus

...
Verified via Facebook

In a May 2017 photo by Jay Blakesberg Photography, Les Claypool's pedalboard features the Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor.

See how Tosin Abasi uses Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor

Tosin Abasi

Guitarist

Animals as Leaders

...
Verified via Photo

Tosin posted a picture of his Fractal AX8 on Instagram and mentioned that he was excited to use it.

See how Ola Englund uses Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor

Ola Englund

Guitarist, Podcasters & Streamers

Six Feet Under

...
Verified via YouTube

In his YouTube video titled "Fractal Audio AX8 - Metal Tone Tutorial," Ola Englund demonstrates the use of the Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor.

See how Mikael Akerfeldt uses Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor

Mikael Akerfeldt

Singer, Guitarist

Opeth

...
Verified via YouTube

at 19:53, this multi-effects pedalboard is seen

See how Scott LePage uses Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor

Scott LePage

Guitarist, Music Producer

Polyphia

...
Verified via YouTube

He uses AX8 on stage.

See how Aaron Marshall uses Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor

Aaron Marshall

Guitarist

Intervals

...
Verified via YouTube

aaron states that he uses a fractal ax8 when he does international shows. he uses this to have as much of a streamlined setup as possible

See how James Valentine uses Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor

James Valentine

Guitarist

Maroon 5

...
Verified via YouTube

At the 0:33 mark of the Maroon 5 performance on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," James Valentine is seen using the Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor.

See how Sarah Lipstate uses Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor

Sarah Lipstate

Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

Sarah Lipstate includes the Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor in her live setup, as seen in her Instagram post.

See how Leda uses Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor

Leda

Guitarist, Bassist

BABYMETAL

...
Verified via Photo

In Leda's Instagram picture that was taken in June 26th, he is shown to be using a Fractal AX8, a Digitech Whammy DT, a Boss FV-500H, a Bogner Ecstasy amp head and a TC Electronic G Major.

See how Marco Sfogli uses Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor

Marco Sfogli

Guitarist, Composer

James LaBrie

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by Marco Sfogli, he is seen using the Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor. The post, captioned "Tonight at Spirit of 66," provides a visual confirmation of his gear choice.

See how Mike Dawes uses Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor

Mike Dawes

Guitarist

...
Verified via Mikedawes

When it comes to electric guitar, Mike loves working with these Fractal Audio units. Incredible pieces of equipment containing hyper realistic models of hundreds and hundreds of amps and effects. If you have not heard of this stuff, check it out. It may well be that lugging heavy amplifiers to shows becomes a thing of the past. Genius.

Album Usage

The Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor has been featured on the following albums:

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fractal Audio Systems AX8 Amp Modeler/Multi-FX Processor, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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jason_jimbo_ascarrunz

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