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Average Price: $440

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$601+

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Description

Unlock the full potential of your guitar's sound with the Fractal FM3, a robust multi-effects pedal that brings cutting-edge amp modeling technology to your pedalboard. Designed for musicians who demand flexibility and unmatched sound quality, the FM3 combines Fractal Audio's acclaimed processing power with a user-friendly interface, making it an exceptional tool for both stage and studio settings.

The FM3 is powered by the Ares Amp Modeling Technology, ensuring every note you play is rich and vibrant, with authentic tube tones that can be customized to fit any musical style. This multi-effects pedal is equipped with a wide array of effects, from classic reverb and delay to innovative pitch and modulation effects. With its intuitive layout and color display, navigating through the extensive library of tones and settings is straightforward, even during live performances.

Whether you're a touring musician or a studio artist, the Fractal FM3 offers comprehensive connectivity options, including MIDI, USB, and XLR outputs, allowing seamless integration into any setup. Its compact design ensures it fits comfortably on any pedalboard, while its rugged construction guarantees durability for years of use.

Key Features:

  • Features Ares Amp Modeling Technology for authentic tube tones
  • Compact and rugged design for durability and portability
  • Extensive library of effects including reverb, delay, pitch, and modulation
  • Intuitive interface with a color display for easy navigation
  • Comprehensive connectivity options including MIDI, USB, and XLR outputs
  • Ideal for both live performances and studio recordings

Product specs

Brand Fractal Audio
Model FM3 Amp Modeler/FX Processor
Finish Black
Year 2020 - 2022
Made In United States
Categories Guitar Modeling Amps, Pedalboard Guitar Amps
Color Family Black
Pedal Format Floor Unit

FAQs

What types of effects are included in the Fractal FM3?

The Fractal FM3 includes a wide range of effects such as reverb, delay, modulation, compression, and overdrive, all derived from Fractal Audio's acclaimed Axe-Fx series.

How many amp models does the Fractal FM3 offer?

The Fractal FM3 offers over 265 amp models, providing a versatile palette for guitarists to achieve a wide variety of tones across different genres.

Is the Fractal FM3 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Fractal FM3 is designed for both studio and live use, featuring robust construction and a user-friendly interface suitable for stage performances.

Can the Fractal FM3 be used with an expression pedal?

Yes, the Fractal FM3 has a dedicated input for an expression pedal, allowing for real-time control over parameters like volume and wah.

What kind of connectivity does the Fractal FM3 offer?

The Fractal FM3 features multiple connectivity options, including XLR and 1/4" outputs, MIDI, USB for recording and updates, and a headphone output for silent practice.

Ola Englund

Ola Englund

Fractal Audio FM3 - Using it Live - METAL

Video thumbnail for Fractal Audio FM3 - Using it Live - METAL by Ola Englund

Fractal Audio FM3 - Using it Live - METAL

Ola Englund

Ola Englund

Video thumbnail for LINE 6 POD GO vs. FRACTAL AUDIO FM3 - Metal by Ola Englund

LINE 6 POD GO vs. FRACTAL AUDIO FM3 - Metal

Ola Englund

Ola Englund

Video thumbnail for Fractal Audio FM3 - Brief Overview by Leon Todd

Fractal Audio FM3 - Brief Overview

Leon Todd

Leon Todd

Video thumbnail for Fractal Audio FM3 | TOP 35 FACTORY PRESETS by Frank Steffen Mueller

Fractal Audio FM3 | TOP 35 FACTORY PRESETS

Frank Steffen Mueller

Frank Steffen Mueller

Video thumbnail for Fractal Audio FM3 Demo // What it is, what it does, and why we love it by Worship Tutorials

Fractal Audio FM3 Demo // What it is, what it does, and why we love it

Worship Tutorials

Worship Tutorials

Video thumbnail for Fractal FM3 First Impressions - The Best Modeller I've Tried? by Kai Down

Fractal FM3 First Impressions - The Best Modeller I've Tried?

Kai Down

Kai Down

Video thumbnail for Get the most out of your Fractal FM3!! by Angus Clark

Get the most out of your Fractal FM3!!

Angus Clark

Angus Clark

Reviews

PROS

  • Unmatched variety and flexibility in sound

  • Superior amp modeling and IRs deliver organic tones

  • Compact size with big impact on sound

  • User-friendly interface, especially with FM3 Edit

  • Built like a tank, durable construction

  • Versatile sound range from 60's to modern high gain

  • Less need for additional pedals with multiple effects in one

  • Controls allow for precise tone and sound adjustments

  • Option for expansion with additional foot switches

CONS

  • May not suit those who prefer a traditional, extensive pedal board setup

  • Learning curve for maximizing use of three foot switches

Critic Reviews

Fractal Audio Systems FM3 Amp Modeler/FX Processor review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Fractal FM3 delivers top-tier sound quality and an impressive range of amp and effect options in a compact, gig-friendly design. Its intuitive layout and deep editing capabilities make it a versatile tool for both live and studio use. However, users may encounter glitchy audio recording and playback issues, which could be frustrating. Overall, this unit is a fantastic entry point into Fractal’s renowned modeling, though a firmware update to address audio bugs is eagerly anticipated.

positive

Review: Fractal Audio FM3

guitar.com

The Fractal FM3 is an impressive multi-effects unit that brings the acclaimed Axe-Fx III technology to a more compact floorboard format. With a plethora of amp models and flexible I/O options, it caters to both live performers and studio musicians alike. The intuitive user interface and customizable footswitches enhance usability, making it an enticing option for guitarists on the go. However, it does have limitations, such as reduced processing power compared to its larger counterpart and fewer footswitches, which may deter some users. Despite these drawbacks, the FM3 offers a versatile and high-quality solution for modern players looking to streamline their rig without sacrificing sound quality.

positive

Fractal Audio Systems FM3 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Fractal's FM3 is a compact powerhouse, boasting exceptional sound quality and a vast selection of amp and effect models. Its intuitive design and deep editing capabilities make it a dream for gigging musicians. However, some users may encounter glitches with audio recording and playback, an issue that Fractal is addressing. Overall, the FM3 shines as a portable all-in-one rig, blending convenience with top-notch performance, though buyers should be aware of its current audio quirks.

positive
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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 8 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
R

The best floor unit amp modeler / FX processor out there.

It's basically a whole rig and more in a box. Built like a tank. Scary close to real amps/effects. It's a GAS ender.

Roles:
Genres:
From Gear Setup
ian_baptiste_lowery

How does it compare sound wise with the dsl40cr? That’s the amp I currently have and I’m worried that switching to a modeler will sound digital and won’t feel the same while playing at home (which is all I do)

jaeseon

Vintage to Modern sound

It really sound great. I can make it 60's sound to 80's shoegaze sound and modern high gain sound.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Andy Wood uses Fractal FM3

Andy Wood

Guitarist

Rascal Flatts

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by Andy Wood, dated April 23, 2022, the Fractal FM3 can be clearly seen on the floor, confirming his use of this gear. The post includes a caption mentioning various music equipment brands, among which Fractal Audio Systems is tagged.

See how FerrariLover uses Fractal FM3

FerrariLover

Guitarist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

fm3 visible to the left in a studio shot posted by nico in summer 2022

See how Piyu uses Fractal FM3

Piyu

Guitarist, Music Producer

Padi

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "RISALAH GITAR | RIG SYSTEM TERBARU YANG MEMBUMI ( PART 2 )" on the Official Piyu Channel, Piyu showcases his new rig setup, which includes the Fractal FM3.

See how Jens Larsen uses Fractal FM3

Jens Larsen

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In a YouTube video titled "Boss Katana ($270) vs Fractal Audio FM3 ($1100) #jazzguitar," Jens Larsen is seen using the Fractal FM3. In the video, he discusses the tonal differences and price justification between the two gear options, noting how closely the Boss Katana can approximate his sound compared to his main amp, the FM3.

See how Edoardo Taddei uses Fractal FM3

Edoardo Taddei

Guitarist

MASTER BOOT RECORD

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by Edoardo Taddei (username: edoardotaddei__), he is seen using the Fractal FM3. The post includes a caption mentioning the gear: "Neoclassical Chip-tune 💾🎸... @g66eu @fractalaudiosystems THE SOUND🤤," which confirms the use of the Fractal FM3.

See how Chris Buono uses Fractal FM3

Chris Buono

Guitarist

...
Verified via Chris Buono

Guitarist Chris Buono confirms on his official website that he uses the Fractal FM3.

I’ve done some fun side projects for/with Fractal thanks to Matt Picone. It’s been a great run that continues today with an FM3 sitting next to me everyday in the studio rarin’ to go.

Album Usage

The Fractal FM3 has been featured on the following albums:

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fractal FM3, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Electro-Harmonix Pitch Fork Harmonizer & Octave Effects Pedals
1
Suhr Classic T
Suhr Classic T Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Rick Toone Goshawk
Rick Toone Goshawk Solid Body Electric Guitars
1

Community setups

Show yours
R

randyteope

Gear IQ 101

juliolozovei

juliolozovei

Gear IQ 124

felix_flemons

felix_flemons

Gear IQ 108

saint_fire

saint_fire

Gear IQ 220

1 alternative for Fractal FM3, curated by the Equipboard community.

Neural DSP Quad Cortex

$1,449.00 - $2,049.99

similar sound high-end alternative

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Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    michael
    michael

    Gear IQ 42641