Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $662

High-end/Boutique

$150

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Fractal FX8 is a powerhouse multi-effects pedal designed to meet the high demands of both professional and hobbyist guitarists. This all-in-one unit packs a comprehensive suite of effects, combining Fractal Audio's legendary sound quality with intuitive user controls. Whether you're looking for pristine cleans, lush modulations, or searing leads, the FX8 delivers with precision and depth.

Utilizing advanced algorithms, the FX8 provides a wide range of effects including delays, reverbs, choruses, and more, all while ensuring minimal signal coloration. Its robust processing capabilities allow for seamless switching between effects, making it an ideal choice for the stage and studio settings. The pedal is designed to be both an effects processor and a MIDI controller, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into any setup.

Built with a rugged chassis, the FX8 is ready to withstand the rigors of live performances. Its user-friendly interface, complete with a bright display and easy-to-navigate controls, ensures that you can focus on your music without getting lost in menus. The inclusion of dual DSP processors ensures that your tone remains consistent and dynamic, no matter how complex your signal chain becomes.

Whether you're a touring professional or an ambitious bedroom guitarist, the Fractal FX8 offers the versatility and reliability that modern musicians require.

Key Features:

  • Dual DSP processors for enhanced performance
  • Comprehensive suite of effects including delays, reverbs, choruses
  • MIDI control capabilities for seamless integration
  • Rugged construction for live performance durability
  • User-friendly interface with a bright display
  • Advanced algorithms for minimal signal coloration and pristine sound quality

Product specs

Brand Fractal Audio
Model FX8
Finish Black
Year 2014 - 2016
Made In United States
Categories Multi-Effects Pedals and Processors
Pedal Format Floor Unit

FAQs

What types of effects does the Fractal FX8 offer?

The Fractal FX8 provides a wide range of effects including modulation, delay, reverb, pitch shifting, and more. It is designed to deliver studio-quality sound with extensive customization options for each effect.

Is the Fractal FX8 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Fractal FX8 is well-suited for live performances, offering robust build quality and easy-to-use footswitches for seamless effect changes on stage.

Can the Fractal FX8 be used with both guitar and bass?

Absolutely, the Fractal FX8 is designed to work effectively with both guitar and bass, providing versatile tonal options for each instrument.

Does the Fractal FX8 support the four-cable method (4CM)?

Yes, the FX8 is designed to integrate seamlessly with the four-cable method, allowing users to place effects both before and after their amp's preamp section.

How does the Fractal FX8 compare to the AX8?

The FX8 focuses solely on effects processing, making it ideal for those who do not need amp modeling. It offers superior performance in 4CM compared to the AX8, which includes amp modeling capabilities.

Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Fractal Audio FX8 Multi FX Processor, demo by Pete Thorn

Video thumbnail for Fractal Audio FX8 Multi FX Processor, demo by Pete Thorn by Pete Thorn

Fractal Audio FX8 Multi FX Processor, demo by Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Pete Thorn

Video thumbnail for Intro to the Fractal Audio FX8 Multi-Effects Pedalboard by G66

Intro to the Fractal Audio FX8 Multi-Effects Pedalboard

G66

G66

Video thumbnail for FAS: FX8 Multi-Effects Pedalboard (as stomp box) - Demo - Laney VH100R by Brett Kingman

FAS: FX8 Multi-Effects Pedalboard (as stomp box) - Demo - Laney VH100R

Brett Kingman

Brett Kingman

Video thumbnail for Fractal Audio FX8 Multi Effects | Review by Guitar Interactive Magazine

Fractal Audio FX8 Multi Effects | Review

Guitar Interactive Magazine

Guitar Interactive Magazine

Video thumbnail for Fractal Audio FX8 by Larry Mitchell

Fractal Audio FX8

Larry Mitchell

Larry Mitchell

Video thumbnail for Fractal Audio FX8 Teaser Demo With Friedman BE100 by Mark Day Guitar

Fractal Audio FX8 Teaser Demo With Friedman BE100

Mark Day Guitar

Mark Day Guitar

Video thumbnail for FX8 vs HX Stomp Tube Screamer Comparison by choicenation

FX8 vs HX Stomp Tube Screamer Comparison

choicenation

choicenation

Reviews

PROS

  • Extremely versatile with a wide range of effects to replace multiple pedals

  • High-quality reverb and delay settings stand out

  • No tone suck when using 4 cable method

  • Excellent build quality and durable design

  • Customizable interface with user-editable parameters for precise sound control

  • Reduces pedalboard complexity and size significantly

  • Software for editing simplifies programming and learning curve

  • Hum reduction with humbuster cables enhances sound clarity

  • Preset tuning and storage provide consistency and convenience

  • Compatible with external controllers for expanded functionality

CONS

  • Processor can be overloaded easily but has a workaround

  • Overdrive effects are average and could be improved

  • Initial learning curve requires manual or software assistance

  • Lacks a robust preset sharing library

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fractal FX8.

Features and functionality

  • The FX8 includes a reverse phase option, which is particularly beneficial with amps like the Mesa Mark V that invert phase when the loop is active.

    Source
  • The FX8 can perform per-scene channel switching, reducing the need for additional floor space for channel switch pedals.

    Source
  • The FX8 offers a graphical editor for PC, enhancing ease of use with drag-and-drop functionality and modifier assignments.

    Source
  • Global FX level adjustments in the FX8 allow users to adapt to different room dynamics effortlessly.

    Source
  • The FX8 firmware updates promise CPU optimization, potentially enhancing performance and extending FX capabilities.

    Source

Comparisons

  • While some suggest the FM3 or FM9, the FX8 is often available for $5-$600, providing a cost-effective option for those focused solely on effects without amp simulations.

    Source

User experience

  • The FX8's tweakability is praised, with scenes and expression pedals simplifying effect and amp control, minimizing menu diving.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the FX8's quietness, noting its impressively low noise floor, especially when used in the loop of high-gain amps like the Mesa Mark IV.

    Source
  • The FX8's build quality is compared to a "tank," suggesting robust construction and durability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The FX8 is lauded for its flexibility in performance mode, enabling seamless preset and scene management for live setups.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fractal FX8 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Fractal FX8 is a powerhouse multi-effects unit that delivers pro-level audio quality and a robust build. Praised for its vast array of effects, flexible routing, and superb sound, this pedalboard is ideal for guitarists who want to use their own amps while accessing Fractal's top-tier effects. With the ability to store 128 virtual pedalboards and offer extensive customization through X and Y settings, the FX8 provides versatility for any performance. The inclusion of the FX8-Edit software makes preset adjustments a breeze. While its price is steep, the FX8's flexibility and quality make it a worthy investment for serious musicians.

positive

Fractal FX8

guitarinteractivemagazine.com

Fractal FX8 is a high-quality, floor-based multi-effects unit that excels in preserving the pure tone of tube amps while offering top-notch effects. Its robust build, extensive I/O options, and intuitive control via footswitches make it a versatile tool for guitarists. The review praises its exceptional sound quality, particularly its delays and reverbs, derived from the esteemed Axe FX II algorithms. While the unit is powerful, users must be mindful of CPU limits when using multiple effects. Overall, the FX8 stands out as a leading choice for those seeking premium effects without sacrificing tone.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
franklyandrade

Good!

When you use many effects pedals in configuration it stops. Its just a good gear with quality effects.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Guthrie Govan uses Fractal FX8

Guthrie Govan

Guitarist, Composer

Asia

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Govan can be seen playing through the Fractal FX8.

Premier Guitar:

Fractal FX8 for effects processing and amp-channel switching (“Just to clear up one common misconception," says Govan, “all overdrive tones are generated by the amp itself, not the Fractal.”)

See how Pete Thorn uses Fractal FX8

Pete Thorn

Guitarist

SatchVai Band: Joe Satriani & Steve Vai

...
Verified via Photo

"This thing…! Pretty damn cool. Easy to use, great editor, seems pretty transparent… Did I mention, sounds great (4cm into my PT100)"

See how Sarah Lipstate uses Fractal FX8

Sarah Lipstate

Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo you can see the Sarah's live set up using the FX8

See how Wes Hauch uses Fractal FX8

Wes Hauch

Guitarist

The Faceless

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Wes Hauch shares that Fractal Audio sent him a new FX8 and expression pedal, mentioning his plans to integrate it into his Friedman Cantrell rig.

See how Chris Hannah uses Fractal FX8

Chris Hannah

Singer, Guitarist

Propagandhi

...
Verified via YouTube

At 3:30 Chris explains that he uses the Fractal FX8 live

See how Larry Mitchell uses Fractal FX8

Larry Mitchell

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Larry was seen using a Fractal FX8.

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 FX8, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

More Fractal Multi Effects Pedals

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    kannabis
    kannabis

    Gear IQ 63