Im using this on my FM9 and it's a truly great option. Same cabling for either use case but vastly different tone options, just depending on the gig. Thank you so much for posting this. I was new to the Feedback Send and Return blocks so at first I wasn't getting any signal when I went to the 4CMB preset. But then adjusted the return block level and YAY ...big success.
Everytime I think "I wonder if I can do this with the axefx", you've got a vid for it! Great easy video to follow, keen to start kitting out a new rig with the FM3 and a Peavey Invective MH
Holy fucking hell I was lost at the beginning with all the routing, but thankfully you explain everything for a complete idiot like me. Magical. Superb, sir.
Love this tutorial. Recently received an FM3 and was just going through the manual and FAS didn’t exactly give a ringing endorsement for using the 4CM, which is my intention. Also, you showed that I can use just the power amp of my tube amp and utilize amp modelling from the FM3. Good stuff and thanks for lifting my spirits.
Jim, I just found this video because my FM3 arrived today (waiting on my EVH head) and I was reading the manual and read the same thing. Really I wanted the FM3 for the effects mainly and the chance to also have it give me a good clean channel and some more amp variety than my head has was a true bonus. I was also saddened to read the same thing you did. So, how did it all work out for you?
4:43 "...and if I hold it I can get the tuner, so I can line up my delays in this preset" Lining up delays using a tuner...you are seriously a wizard at this! :D
Excellent step by step video, thank you! I agree with some of the other posts, throwing in some other amp models would have been great also. Any way you can take this one step further with a multi channel amp and show setup and how to program a VooDoo Lab channel switcher inside presets?
It might be interesting to hear the CeriaTone preamp section into the power amp, vs the FM3 Atomica preamp into the CeriaTone power section. Just to see how close they are. Not that it matters in the long run if they sound somewhat different, but more so out of curiosity. (I say this as I recall that model of CeriaTone is based off the Atomica.)
Leon, love your vids. I’m trying this 4CM with my Mark IIC+; can you demonstrate how to use another cable from the FM3 to the footswitch jack so the FM3 can control the heads channel switching? Thx ✌️🤘
As far as I know, the FM3 is not capable of switching amp channels. It does not have any built in relays. Check out the FX8 or the Helix/LT. They switch channels for sure. Also the Behringer FCB can do amp channel changes with your MIDI CC and PC changes.
Great as always Leon. Wow! you stack your Ceriatone amp on top of another amp like a Jenga block and topping it off with an FM3 and a pedal. Life is good!
1:27 -> I am not sure if it matters that much but I think it is not TRS. FM3 Owner manual states at p.36 : "Connect Output 1 L to the FX Return of your amp.You will need an XLR-female to 1/4" TS (NOT TRS!)cable in most cases. Set the front panel OUT 1knob as desired for appropriate volume. To extendthis configuration for optional stereo, connectOutput 1 R to the FX Return of a second amplifier."
Incredibly useful. Thanks for all the great Guidance you give . This is how I intend to use with my BE 50. This will give me a Dirty Shirley Channel. Very stoked.
Great video as always. New to the FM3, finally got one after a long wait on the list. Owners Manual says "NOT TRS" for the XLR cable. Tried this on a Randall RM100 (what I have at home currently) which has separate loops Series and Parallel. Needs more experimenting. Thanks for all the videos. Great help.
second preset where u use the axe fx as an amp... is that possible on an Axe Fx 2XL ? and if i get it right wont that be a problem with the amp and cab simulation since i have to have those set to OFF when i use a similar preset to your preset 1 where i use my marshall for the amp tone ?
Perfect video. I have a Two-Rock amp and plan to use the Axe FX3 in a 4CM to have effects but also have the option to use Axe Preamps in the Two-Rock Power section.
I remember my first time experiencing the 4CM. It was with my DHP55/Studio 5000 harmony processor from Digitech/IVL in the late 90's. Very underrated MFX unit IMHO.
@@LeonTodd thanks man. Yeah I know FX8 thing - but I couldn’t seem to find anything about switching within the Axe - someday maybe! Roar on my brother.
Great video Leon! Can you do a video adding a regular pedalboard and maybe the fm9? I’ve been wondering how to use a regular crybaby, and other effects. I like my fm9 but I’m not in love with it yet. I really want to be but I can’t give up certain pedals. I’m maybe a little confused how to run my regular 4 cable board with the fm9. I will never give up my tubes either. The digital thing is a great tool but I feel some things are still lacking.
I would really love to see you change tube head channels at the same time with in the scenes in the method you have shown.....please and thank you....im thinking of getting a mark v 35 and setting it up this way but don't know if i need their Midi Matrix Controller or not. The head has a 5 pin din on the back for their footswitch.
Leon, as with all of your videos, this is SOO on point. Thanks for all of your contributions. To all (and Leon, but I know you are busy), I'm using a Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier with an FM9. I got the time based and pre preamp effects with output 3 going to input 3 working great!! However, I am getting no signal at all using the sends, bypassing the Mesa Preamp. There is also no setting for Supply Sag Off. I can only turn it to zero. No idea what I am doing wrong. Leon, if you want to do a video featuring the Mesa Dual Rec, that would be insane.
Exactly how I plan to hook my FM3 up when I get my purchase invite. Currently using my old trusty Boss GT5 in this way now with my 5150 and Marshall into a Suhr Reactive Load and then into my interface. Looks like the FM3 pairs well, can't wait, will be a major upgrade for me! 👍
Leon Todd is that “better” than using the 4cm? I have an FM3 and Suhr RL IR and am uncertain what’s the best way to incorporate these with my Diezel Einstein.
Hi leon! Great video as always! Little question: Is there any difference in using XLR-Female to TRS and XLR-Female to TS?. The manual literally says "(NOT TRS!)" , so why is that?. Greetings from Chile!
Hi Leon, I have a question, the manual said that: "Connect Output 1 L to the FX Return of your amp. You will need an XLR-female to 1/4" TS (NOT TRS!) cable in most cases". Your amp works with TRS on the FX return? you tried with both, TRS and TS? sounds different? works in any case? Thanks for videos :) :) great job!!!
@@faustopuin2631 Thanks so much for the reply! When you used the FM3 in 4CM did you have any issues with hum or hiss? Been reading that the FM3 doesn't have quite the high quality AD/DA conversion and that has me a bit concerned but I really want to try it.
@@andrewkoumis4070 "in 4CM did you have any issues with hum or hiss?" Yes... and in from of the amp (wah, whammy, chorus, compressor...): with clean no problems but with distortion I had some problemes... that was "my" particular experience... I dont knwo obout other people... hope that help :) :)
@@faustopuin2631 That does help. Did you do anything to fix it? Are you still using the FM3 in 4CM or did you change to something else because of the hiss/hum?
Hello) Thank you very much for your helpful videos. Could you clarify one question? I am using a Laney TT100H amplifier. I used 4 cables as indicated on your video. I tried to put a heating pad in front of the Laney TT100H amplifier, but for some reason, when the heating pad is turned off, a clean guitar signal is heard at the output. There is no sound of the amplifier itself. Please tell me what the problem might be. Thanks!
Great video Leon! I was wondering if you could make a video about using the FM3 with your Synergy preamps. Wondering if you can use the Synergy to be your 'amp', while using the cab block from the FM3 to go direct to the board.
Hi Leon, Thanks for making all of these videos. I recently purchased the FM3 Turbo and am slowing woking my way into all of the endless features. I was hoping to get help on two questions I had: 1) is if there is a way to easily copy/paste blocks or effects you like from, say a factory preset, into a new present block you are making? and 2) if you are running the unit into your own amp (messa boogie), is there any way to use a factory preset still but just turn off the amp and cab modeling so you can take advantage of the effects you may have liked from a preset? I don't know if that would just sound bad and should be avoided. Thanks for any help. and if there are videos on these, please let me know.
Hi Leon. This is awesome. Thanks for posting. I am thinking about getting FM3 and want to use it for both effects and also hear the amp models from FM3. If I understood you correctly, cabling is the same for both methods but you had to change the amp blocks in FM3 to hear the amp models. It is not clear how you made that happen in the video. Appreciate if you can explain. thanks!
Sorry to add a comment to an older video, but how would I add a synergy SYN-2 into the routing so that I can utilize the effects of the FM3? These would be run into a Marshall JVM. Thanks.
I got my Molecular a few weeks ago and hated it at first. Come to find out the tubes I installed weren't in good shape. I switched them out and have been really happy. I'm having to move so I'm downsizing. I sold a 5150 and a modded 2204. The Mark IV and the Molecular are staying. Now trying to figure out if I'm going to keep my KSR Orthos or my Ceres.
Hi, this has really helped me set up my fm3 to run this way. But I’m having a small problem though. I follow the steps here, but out 2 keeps clipping. Only thing I’m running is a graphic EQ and a gate. I’m not sure why it’d be clipping, I’m just doing slight boost to mid freq and some cut to low freq since using a 7 string. I’ve followed each steps listed. I could use some help to try to fix the output 2 clipping problem.
Man that amp sounds glorious! I just got a Friedman be 50 dlx a few days ago and it kills man. I’d love to add the fm3 to my arsenal though. That would be the ultimate rig using it for it with a tube amp and getting all those other preamps and effects.
Hey Leon, your party about using the 2nd protest using a modeler amp, instead of ur tube amp... I did that exactly on my FM9 but the Fractal amp has no sound.. the tube amp works great, but can't switch it to a fractal amp like how u did.... any idea?
Great video Leon!! Do you think I could achieve similar results with my old Peavey Classic 50? I tried the 4CM about 10 years ago with a Line6 XT and it didn't sound very good at all.
I am very interested to get one of this FM3. Just a question though. May I place another multi fx pedal in the send and return and add it like an effects block? Thanks. Good vid instruction though
Thank you this great. So I’m still at the level deciding whether I should go with a fractal. I do have two amps a Marshall and an Hughes and kettner kettner. Can I do the four cable method identically to what you showed with these two amps in stereo? Thank you.
Do I have to change the settings in the I/0 section every time I use 4CM? Is there any way to save these settings permanently in this particular preset?
I hope it is ok to ask a question. 1. I use the 4CM to connect my ENGL with my FM9 - when I let the output level with + 4dBu I get feedback loops (not nice) but the volume is then like the ENGL without FM9.. when I use -10 it works fine but then the setup is definitely quieter than if I run the Engl without FM9 ... is it not a problem and where the lost power will be covered .. as I know it is not good for a tube amp. Not sure whether I could explain this problem properly and thanks in advance for your help
Great video, works great. I have a special question. We can disable the power amp in the Fm3, but can I do the reverse and disable the preamp of an amp block? I would like to use the preamp of my amp and the power section and cab of the Fm3 for recording!
I just want to bypass my Uberschall's preamp section but plugging into FX return does nothing Do I really need to do 4 cable method? What am I missing? This should be easy!
This may sound like a stupid question, but did you activate the FX Loop on the Uberschall? Just because you plugged a cable into the Return doesn’t turn it on. All amps I’m familiar with have at least a loop on/off button and maybe other features depending on the type of loop it is. You should certainly be able to run the output of your effects directly into the amp’s return without needing a 4 cable setup. Using 4 cable is when you WANT to use your amp’s preamp section and place some effects before the preamp and other effects like delays and other time based effects in the loop so if you just want to put everything in the loop then you should be able to do that with a single cable.
Brilliant, as per usual. However I do have a question (as per usual). As you know I'm hoping to run an FM3 as a pre-amp on my ENGL. Since I last bent your "ear" I discovered that the ENGL has 3 (yes 3) FX loops, two series. So my plan is to connect the FM3 to the second loops return. What changes would you suggest I make in that "set up" menu you showed? As ever, many thanks, bud:)
Hi Leon, love your vids! Listen, I have an additional question to this setup in your video. Using a tube amp will present the problem with the amp possibly going down live. Therefore another path using both amp and cab through a separate output to front of house "copying" the 4CM-setup so that the switches work in the same way would be very helpful. Could you elaborate on this? There are videos out there talking about cab on/off, but in this situation both cab and amp is on or off for the different paths. Cheers!
Is it possible to do a wet dry wet thing with the FM3??I want one path going to the front of my amp completely dry....then the second path going stereo to a separate power amp with reverbs and delays,etc...Had the FM3 for about 3 days now...still trying to figure everything out...it sounds stunningly good....
@@rubentumbelaka4042 I haven’t yet...I bought an old Marshall 9005 power amp specifically for this purpose,but being how old it is,I had to put it in the shop for a cap job and going over....as soon as I get it back,I will be setting up the WDW with the FM3..
I think what you are trying to do is possible with the FM3. The issue you may run into is the processing ceiling. It is complicated explaining how to do that over text but basically it takes knowing how to send and return the blocks properly and knowing which blocks to use.
wow great tutorial i didnt no it does all that. And that is what i want to do.my question leon is.....what lower price amp you recommend ....maybe a 50watt organe, blackface or Marshall,...but has to have like your ceritone has.......effects loops send etc.also how do you hook it up to presonus audiobox using studio one to use as effects or daw....bascaiily want to record direct into my desktop.....thanks
Great Video....still using the ax8 until my name comes up on the list! Is it possible to do this with a mesa Mark iv and an ax 8. How does the send and return system on the mark iv work with this?
I have an older Carvin XV-112 combo. With 2 channels. Tried to connect it the way demonstrated and got a tiny signal with huge amount of noise...tried it on both channels...same thing... any suggestions?
Great demo Leon, as is always the case. I currently have and Axe FX III that I love in 4cm mode with my SLO-30. Only issues it is a pain to drag in and out of the studio and also have to bring a midi board and stand for the Axe FX. Just got my invite and am thinking of picking it up so I can leave the Axe FX in the "studio" and just take the FM3 to Practice (and hopefully someday gigs. While I know it won't be able to run the same number of effects the III does , any reason it would not sound just as good as the full III when used in 4cm method?
using the 4cm and similiar cables Leon uses, I need to set input 2 noise gate to 100% to keep the rig super quiet. weirdly, there is no tone suck as far as i can tell. is this normal?
Leon, when your just playing at home wanting to rock out do you just play the axe fx through some monitors and let the axe do all the amp simulating etc? or would you rather do the 4CM and get the full bore tone of a real amp? or do you find the fm3s amp/cabs fully satisfy through monitors?
Hey my friend. I watch these even without an FM3 just to hear your ideas and playing. It actually gives me ideas to use with other hardware. 😜 On another subject, and I apologize for that, but I'm wondering if you've done any just minimal effects pedals straight into an amp. ? I would love to know how you would setup delays and time based stuff using a CLEAN CHANNEL amp and using effects for distortion, modulation, delay, everything. I'm asking because I am thinking if one plays in cover bands like I used to do and many do, that effects straight into the amp are the way to go if you don't like modeling or already have pedals and an amp, etc. Doesn't Steve Vai use the AxeFx for effects I'm thinking. You are the AxeFx and tech guru sir. Can't wait to hear another " How not to play" episode and I really love the Friday q and As. All of your vids are great though..
Much tone suck from an FM3 in a tube amp fx loop? Of course all amps are a bit different, but general consensus? And anything that can’t be fixed by adding some EQ from the FM3?
Hey Leon, love your videos on the FM3, lots of amazing info! I am using this method with my Marshall JCM 900. Regarding the effects loop in, is it bad to run a low signal back into the amp and then raise the master volume on the amp to compensate? I find this lets the power section tubes work without blasting my ears or needing an attenuator. What are your thoughts? Thanks!
Hi, i have soon a Fractal FM3, my guitar amp is a Boss Katana Artists combo 100 (first one, not MKII) and a pair of PRESONUS ERIS E5 Studio Monitors, i guess it's the best sound to just use studio monitors with connection of both XLR to each monitor directly? i mean, i will never use any effects from my amp anyway. i live in an apartment with neighbours and can't play with high volume anyway
Is there a way to save the input and output settings as scene versions? I want to use my FM9 to run as a model direct to FOH and also have presets for 4cm with my tube amps but don’t want to have to constantly be tweaking the input and output page back and forth. Is there any better way to go about switching the settings back and forth based on what rig I’m running?
Is there another way instead of using the Xlr to TRS cable which was the last you connected ?? i made all but i am missing this, so can i use a normal instrument cable instead or can i use just a TRS to TRS cable ?
Great Leon!! What i never understood. If you put a drive or eq from the digital unit in front of the real amp does it behave like using a pedal and boosting the input in the same way as a pedal would do?
Leon question for you. I run this live with my band. I use Iem and split to foh. The channel you have this plugged into on the board do you run dry? Any gain on the channel at all or do you just use levels to taste? When I used it live for the first time it sounded kinda thin and tinny.
Video Suggestions: Making this on some of my favorites as well as yours which may be my favorite. REAL player. The RUclips "GAS" confusion effect. I seem to have gotten myself into a Rut where I have so much "GEAR" I'm just confused. "Probably" why I for years and still do reach for my Taylor (y it's me) . Good news front. Landed a 12 Martin When they Zig, I ZAG. But really want to become a better Electric player in 2020. I'm just geared out. Two whole setups. One pure digital. One mostly analog. Both have their flavors. Neither is unique to me. Whereas I pickup my Taylor it's me, every time. Have a fantastic Summer.
Great stuff Leon! I just tried 4CM with my Axe III coupled with my JP2C. I still need to do a preset like the second one in your vid to just use the power section of the 2C. So many possibilities, so little time.
Hey Todd! , is this setup is possible to the Axe fx 3?? If i use out 3 to OD pedal to in 3. Does the signal will interupt if i leave the pedal on while not using the fxloop in the preset???
Hey Leon thanks for this great video. I have a mesa California tweed and i have the axe 3 running through it the way you described the cabling. When i put delay after the preamp tje delay gets distorted if i have a pedal in front. so guitar into input of axe. Output 3 to front of amp, effects loop send into input 2, and output 4 to return of fx loop. I did the i/o settings but i cant get a clean delay with distortion tone.. any help is appreciated
Leon, so you will probably see my face a lot as I’m watching so many of your videos in anticipation of getting my FM3 this coming week. So you would have to turn you cab sim off to run this 4 cable method into a regular guitar cab? Or would you just not choose a cab? Thanks for any reply you can give.
@@LeonTodd does your FM3 not come with a headphone jack? Mine is right above the instrument jack. And in this video I swore you took your XLR to TRS cable into the send? Wouldn’t you use a XLR to TS? Like aren’t all guitar amp stuff suppose to be TS cables? And if you were to hook this up to a audio interface you would simply use XLR out to XLR in on the audio interface correct? I’m just trying yo make sure I have the right cables. I ran a XLR to 1/4 inch out into a baby bomb power and then from the power amp to a 1X12 but it was very noisy so I’m wondering if I have the right cable?
Another question.. Is this setup possible in axefx 3 ??? In1 Guitar > axe3 Compression&PitchShifter > Out3 > Wah > In3 > Out4 > OD pedal > In4 > axe3 amp&cab > Out 1 > To PA In & Out 3 is always on in preset In & Out 4 Is just on in certain preset (in distorted tones only, it will be off in clean tones) Is this setup will cause latency issue?? Because i will run almost 50ft in out3 to in3..... Thanks for your reply😀
Hello Leon.. having trouble getting the FM3 as preamp setup to work. Does the cable being TRS vs TS make the difference? I have these other setup working great when using the tube amps preamp with the FM3. Thanks is advance.
Hey Leon, whats the best way to run the FM3 through a poweramp (solid state) with a real cab and send an other Signal to foh? Can I disable the cab sim only for one output? Thanks for all the great videos! Cheers from Germany
Leon, I am looking for a multi effects unit for my Soldano HR50+. I know the loop is Line level in the HR so pedals are a little weird with it. Would the 4CM method you demonstrate here work well with the Soldano? I’ve read that all Fractal gear is default Line level. If you can’t tell I’m pretty confused lol
Im using this on my FM9 and it's a truly great option. Same cabling for either use case but vastly different tone options, just depending on the gig. Thank you so much for posting this. I was new to the Feedback Send and Return blocks so at first I wasn't getting any signal when I went to the 4CMB preset. But then adjusted the return block level and YAY ...big success.
Great to hear!
Perfect, this is just what I was looking for, to use my Axe Fx 3 M2 Turbo with a few of my amps. Cheers, Leon!!!!
Everytime I think "I wonder if I can do this with the axefx", you've got a vid for it!
Great easy video to follow, keen to start kitting out a new rig with the FM3 and a Peavey Invective MH
Holy fucking hell I was lost at the beginning with all the routing, but thankfully you explain everything for a complete idiot like me. Magical. Superb, sir.
Love this tutorial. Recently received an FM3 and was just going through the manual and FAS didn’t exactly give a ringing endorsement for using the 4CM, which is my intention. Also, you showed that I can use just the power amp of my tube amp and utilize amp modelling from the FM3. Good stuff and thanks for lifting my spirits.
Great to hear!
Jim, I just found this video because my FM3 arrived today (waiting on my EVH head) and I was reading the manual and read the same thing. Really I wanted the FM3 for the effects mainly and the chance to also have it give me a good clean channel and some more amp variety than my head has was a true bonus. I was also saddened to read the same thing you did. So, how did it all work out for you?
4:43 "...and if I hold it I can get the tuner, so I can line up my delays in this preset"
Lining up delays using a tuner...you are seriously a wizard at this! :D
Excellent step by step video, thank you! I agree with some of the other posts, throwing in some other amp models would have been great also.
Any way you can take this one step further with a multi channel amp and show setup and how to program a VooDoo Lab channel switcher inside presets?
It might be interesting to hear the CeriaTone preamp section into the power amp, vs the FM3 Atomica preamp into the CeriaTone power section. Just to see how close they are. Not that it matters in the long run if they sound somewhat different, but more so out of curiosity. (I say this as I recall that model of CeriaTone is based off the Atomica.)
I 2nd this
Would also like to hear this!
Amazing stuff!! I'll test it next week with my JCM800 2210 from 1986! Cheers from Portugal and thanks for the video
Leon, love your vids. I’m trying this 4CM with my Mark IIC+; can you demonstrate how to use another cable from the FM3 to the footswitch jack so the FM3 can control the heads channel switching? Thx ✌️🤘
I just asked about this also.
As far as I know, the FM3 is not capable of switching amp channels. It does not have any built in relays. Check out the FX8 or the Helix/LT. They switch channels for sure. Also the Behringer FCB can do amp channel changes with your MIDI CC and PC changes.
Just saw this video. Such great content.thanks leon
Thankyou!
Great as always Leon. Wow! you stack your Ceriatone amp on top of another amp like a Jenga block and topping it off with an FM3 and a pedal. Life is good!
Hahaha yes indeed, cannot complain here
1:27 -> I am not sure if it matters that much but I think it is not TRS. FM3 Owner manual states at p.36 : "Connect Output 1 L to the FX Return of your amp.You will need an XLR-female to 1/4" TS (NOT TRS!)cable in most cases. Set the front panel OUT 1knob as desired for appropriate volume. To extendthis configuration for optional stereo, connectOutput 1 R to the FX Return of a second amplifier."
Incredibly useful. Thanks for all the great Guidance you give . This is how I intend to use with my BE 50. This will give me a Dirty Shirley Channel. Very stoked.
My pleasure! That's going to be a MEGA rig
Great video as always. New to the FM3, finally got one after a long wait on the list. Owners Manual says "NOT TRS" for the XLR cable. Tried this on a Randall RM100 (what I have at home currently) which has separate loops Series and Parallel. Needs more experimenting. Thanks for all the videos. Great help.
second preset where u use the axe fx as an amp... is that possible on an Axe Fx 2XL ? and if i get it right wont that be a problem with the amp and cab simulation since i have to have those set to OFF when i use a similar preset to your preset 1 where i use my marshall for the amp tone ?
Perfect video. I have a Two-Rock amp and plan to use the Axe FX3 in a 4CM to have effects but also have the option to use Axe Preamps in the Two-Rock Power section.
I’m so glad I found this, I want to set my FM9 like this. Thanks for this.
Glad I could help!
@@LeonTodd you always do.
I remember my first time experiencing the 4CM. It was with my DHP55/Studio 5000 harmony processor from Digitech/IVL in the late 90's. Very underrated MFX unit IMHO.
I would like to see a video of the 4 cable method with the atomic amplifire.thanks and your videos are always helpful
Can the Axe change channels on a two channel amp? Say a clean and dirty channel?
It doesn't have switching relays - the older FX8 does though. If your amp has midi then you'll be fine.
@@LeonTodd thanks man. Yeah I know FX8 thing - but I couldn’t seem to find anything about switching within the Axe - someday maybe! Roar on my brother.
wow very interesting. I just acquired an FM3. Great tutorial. Very interesting an choices. Thanks
Great Stuff and good explaination about the different possibities. Tanks!
Great video Leon! Can you do a video adding a regular pedalboard and maybe the fm9? I’ve been wondering how to use a regular crybaby, and other effects. I like my fm9 but I’m not in love with it yet. I really want to be but I can’t give up certain pedals. I’m maybe a little confused how to run my regular 4 cable board with the fm9.
I will never give up my tubes either. The digital thing is a great tool but I feel some things are still lacking.
I would really love to see you change tube head channels at the same time with in the scenes in the method you have shown.....please and thank you....im thinking of getting a mark v 35 and setting it up this way but don't know if i need their Midi Matrix Controller or not. The head has a 5 pin din on the back for their footswitch.
Leon....you are such a boss. Keep it up good sir!
Leon, as with all of your videos, this is SOO on point. Thanks for all of your contributions. To all (and Leon, but I know you are busy), I'm using a Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier with an FM9. I got the time based and pre preamp effects with output 3 going to input 3 working great!! However, I am getting no signal at all using the sends, bypassing the Mesa Preamp. There is also no setting for Supply Sag Off. I can only turn it to zero. No idea what I am doing wrong. Leon, if you want to do a video featuring the Mesa Dual Rec, that would be insane.
Make sure the return block level is set to 100%. Supply sag off = supply sag at 0
@@LeonTodd That is how I have it set. Gremlins are afoot. Thanks so much for your reply. Badass man. I'll keep tinkering.
@@LeonTodd Rookie mistake, I was using Send 1 and Return 2. Absolutely sounds amazing now. More fun than I have had with the Boogie ever. Thanks Leon!
Exactly how I plan to hook my FM3 up when I get my purchase invite. Currently using my old trusty Boss GT5 in this way now with my 5150 and Marshall into a Suhr Reactive Load and then into my interface. Looks like the FM3 pairs well, can't wait, will be a major upgrade for me! 👍
Even better in your case, you can use the Suhr RL with the FM3 cabs for a super low latency direct rig!
Leon Todd is that “better” than using the 4cm? I have an FM3 and Suhr RL IR and am uncertain what’s the best way to incorporate these with my Diezel Einstein.
Hi leon! Great video as always!
Little question:
Is there any difference in using XLR-Female to TRS and XLR-Female to TS?. The manual literally says "(NOT TRS!)" , so why is that?.
Greetings from Chile!
Yeah I would love to know this as well.
@@andrewkoumis4070 Also searching for this information
Hi Leon, I have a question, the manual said that: "Connect Output 1 L to the FX Return of your amp. You will need an XLR-female to 1/4" TS (NOT TRS!) cable in most cases". Your amp works with TRS on the FX return? you tried with both, TRS and TS? sounds different? works in any case? Thanks for videos :) :) great job!!!
I would love to know this as well.
@@andrewkoumis4070 months later when I had my FM3 I used a TS cable and it worked without a hitch
@@faustopuin2631 Thanks so much for the reply! When you used the FM3 in 4CM did you have any issues with hum or hiss? Been reading that the FM3 doesn't have quite the high quality AD/DA conversion and that has me a bit concerned but I really want to try it.
@@andrewkoumis4070 "in 4CM did you have any issues with hum or hiss?" Yes... and in from of the amp (wah, whammy, chorus, compressor...): with clean no problems but with distortion I had some problemes... that was "my" particular experience... I dont knwo obout other people... hope that help :) :)
@@faustopuin2631 That does help. Did you do anything to fix it? Are you still using the FM3 in 4CM or did you change to something else because of the hiss/hum?
Hello) Thank you very much for your helpful videos. Could you clarify one question? I am using a Laney TT100H amplifier. I used 4 cables as indicated on your video. I tried to put a heating pad in front of the Laney TT100H amplifier, but for some reason, when the heating pad is turned off, a clean guitar signal is heard at the output. There is no sound of the amplifier itself. Please tell me what the problem might be. Thanks!
Great video Leon! I was wondering if you could make a video about using the FM3 with your Synergy preamps. Wondering if you can use the Synergy to be your 'amp', while using the cab block from the FM3 to go direct to the board.
Good one Brother! Helpful to many I'm Sure! Be Well and Thanks for Sharing Leon!
Hi Leon, Thanks for making all of these videos. I recently purchased the FM3 Turbo and am slowing woking my way into all of the endless features. I was hoping to get help on two questions I had: 1) is if there is a way to easily copy/paste blocks or effects you like from, say a factory preset, into a new present block you are making? and 2) if you are running the unit into your own amp (messa boogie), is there any way to use a factory preset still but just turn off the amp and cab modeling so you can take advantage of the effects you may have liked from a preset? I don't know if that would just sound bad and should be avoided. Thanks for any help. and if there are videos on these, please let me know.
Great intro... very metal sounding! 🤘
Hi Leon. This is awesome. Thanks for posting. I am thinking about getting FM3 and want to use it for both effects and also hear the amp models from FM3. If I understood you correctly, cabling is the same for both methods but you had to change the amp blocks in FM3 to hear the amp models. It is not clear how you made that happen in the video. Appreciate if you can explain. thanks!
Sorry to add a comment to an older video, but how would I add a synergy SYN-2 into the routing so that I can utilize the effects of the FM3? These would be run into a Marshall JVM. Thanks.
I got my Molecular a few weeks ago and hated it at first. Come to find out the tubes I installed weren't in good shape. I switched them out and have been really happy. I'm having to move so I'm downsizing. I sold a 5150 and a modded 2204. The Mark IV and the Molecular are staying. Now trying to figure out if I'm going to keep my KSR Orthos or my Ceres.
Hi, this has really helped me set up my fm3 to run this way. But I’m having a small problem though. I follow the steps here, but out 2 keeps clipping. Only thing I’m running is a graphic EQ and a gate. I’m not sure why it’d be clipping, I’m just doing slight boost to mid freq and some cut to low freq since using a 7 string. I’ve followed each steps listed. I could use some help to try to fix the output 2 clipping problem.
Man that amp sounds glorious! I just got a Friedman be 50 dlx a few days ago and it kills man. I’d love to add the fm3 to my arsenal though. That would be the ultimate rig using it for it with a tube amp and getting all those other preamps and effects.
Fun fact - I liked the Atomica and Friedman models in the Fractal so much I got Nik to make this amp for me based around those models. Such a ripper.
Fantastic video and cracking tones as per usual! Do you need a reactive load box or can I run USB from FM3 to my PC and output to studio monitors?
You'll need a reacrtive load in that case
Can anyone explane the routing at 6:43? Like, disengaging the amp's preamp and use the FM3 as a preamp?
Leon - I want to do exactly this but also be able to run to an FRFR or FOH. How can I do this so that I am not getting a cab Sim on my real cabinet?
Hey Leon, your party about using the 2nd protest using a modeler amp, instead of ur tube amp... I did that exactly on my FM9 but the Fractal amp has no sound.. the tube amp works great, but can't switch it to a fractal amp like how u did.... any idea?
Great video Leon!! Do you think I could achieve similar results with my old Peavey Classic 50? I tried the 4CM about 10 years ago with a Line6 XT and it didn't sound very good at all.
The Gibbo black tape mod? Lol love it!
Essential!
What would you set the I/O levels to for a passive un-buffered insert loop? I’m using a Ceriatone Plexi and trying to use the fm3 for effects only.
And can you make a video on how to set up a midi block to switch amp channels?!
tke for this. i've been pulling my hair out trying to get this right
what pedalboard is that the FM3 is sitting on?
A NuX Bumblebee board
@@LeonTodd Thanks man! I just searched your other videos and found it.
Can this change channels on the tube amp, like FX8?
There's no relay switching.
I am very interested to get one of this FM3. Just a question though. May I place another multi fx pedal in the send and return and add it like an effects block? Thanks. Good vid instruction though
Yeah that's super easy. I did a video on the FM3 with pedals.
@@LeonTodd yep. I watched it awhile ago. Silly me. I am planning to keep my ol zoom ms50g for added modulation. Thanks.
Thank you this great. So I’m still at the level deciding whether I should go with a fractal. I do have two amps a Marshall and an Hughes and kettner kettner. Can I do the four cable method identically to what you showed with these two amps in stereo?
Thank you.
Hi León
I have a FM9 T:
Does the TRS cable have to be stereo? or it could be Mono...
Thanks
Do I have to change the settings in the I/0 section every time I use 4CM? Is there any way to save these settings permanently in this particular preset?
I hope it is ok to ask a question. 1. I use the 4CM to connect my ENGL with my FM9 - when I let the output level with + 4dBu I get feedback loops (not nice) but the volume is then like the ENGL without FM9.. when I use -10 it works fine but then the setup is definitely quieter than if I run the Engl without FM9 ... is it not a problem and where the lost power will be covered .. as I know it is not good for a tube amp. Not sure whether I could explain this problem properly and thanks in advance for your help
this is great ... thanks for it
You're welcome!
Leon great videos and tutorials; what is that pedal board platform you have the FM3 and the EXP pedal mounted on? Thanks.
Nux Bumblebee
Great video, works great. I have a special question. We can disable the power amp in the Fm3, but can I do the reverse and disable the preamp of an amp block? I would like to use the preamp of my amp and the power section and cab of the Fm3 for recording!
I got my answer on the WIKI, you have to use "Tube Pre" for that! :) Gonna try my XTC 101B this way for recording. :)
I just want to bypass my Uberschall's preamp section
but plugging into FX return does nothing
Do I really need to do 4 cable method?
What am I missing? This should be easy!
😩 I know
This may sound like a stupid question, but did you activate the FX Loop on the Uberschall? Just because you plugged a cable into the Return doesn’t turn it on. All amps I’m familiar with have at least a loop on/off button and maybe other features depending on the type of loop it is.
You should certainly be able to run the output of your effects directly into the amp’s return without needing a 4 cable setup. Using 4 cable is when you WANT to use your amp’s preamp section and place some effects before the preamp and other effects like delays and other time based effects in the loop so if you just want to put everything in the loop then you should be able to do that with a single cable.
Brilliant, as per usual. However I do have a question (as per usual). As you know I'm hoping to run an FM3 as a pre-amp on my ENGL. Since I last bent your "ear" I discovered that the ENGL has 3 (yes 3) FX loops, two series. So my plan is to connect the FM3 to the second loops return. What changes would you suggest I make in that "set up" menu you showed? As ever, many thanks, bud:)
Are you using a regular cabinet?
Hi Leon, love your vids!
Listen, I have an additional question to this setup in your video. Using a tube amp will present the problem with the amp possibly going down live. Therefore another path using both amp and cab through a separate output to front of house "copying" the 4CM-setup so that the switches work in the same way would be very helpful. Could you elaborate on this? There are videos out there talking about cab on/off, but in this situation both cab and amp is on or off for the different paths. Cheers!
The routing might be a little complex on the FM3, but it would definitely be easy to setup with the Axe-Fx and FM9. Let me have a think.
Is it possible to do a wet dry wet thing with the FM3??I want one path going to the front of my amp completely dry....then the second path going stereo to a separate power amp with reverbs and delays,etc...Had the FM3 for about 3 days now...still trying to figure everything out...it sounds stunningly good....
Hi Scott, did you manage to run the wdw setup with fm3? Thanks
@@rubentumbelaka4042 I haven’t yet...I bought an old Marshall 9005 power amp specifically for this purpose,but being how old it is,I had to put it in the shop for a cap job and going over....as soon as I get it back,I will be setting up the WDW with the FM3..
I think what you are trying to do is possible with the FM3. The issue you may run into is the processing ceiling. It is complicated explaining how to do that over text but basically it takes knowing how to send and return the blocks properly and knowing which blocks to use.
wow great tutorial i didnt no it does all that. And that is what i want to do.my question leon is.....what lower price amp you recommend ....maybe a 50watt organe, blackface or Marshall,...but has to have like your ceritone has.......effects loops send etc.also how do you hook it up to presonus audiobox using studio one to use as effects or daw....bascaiily want to record direct into my desktop.....thanks
gotta say I wasn't planning to go back to tubes, but the fm3 with the Revv G20 is AMAZING!
Great Video....still using the ax8 until my name comes up on the list! Is it possible to do this with a mesa Mark iv and an ax 8. How does the send and return system on the mark iv work with this?
I wouldn’t have thought to use a TRS plug into the amp FX return jack. I’ll have to try that.
What’s the advantage of this? What if you only have 1/4 send and returns?
I have an older Carvin XV-112 combo. With 2 channels. Tried to connect it the way demonstrated and got a tiny signal with huge amount of noise...tried it on both channels...same thing... any suggestions?
Great demo Leon, as is always the case. I currently have and Axe FX III that I love in 4cm mode with my SLO-30. Only issues it is a pain to drag in and out of the studio and also have to bring a midi board and stand for the Axe FX. Just got my invite and am thinking of picking it up so I can leave the Axe FX in the "studio" and just take the FM3 to Practice (and hopefully someday gigs. While I know it won't be able to run the same number of effects the III does , any reason it would not sound just as good as the full III when used in 4cm method?
Pretty much how i'm running my rig (albeit FM3 direct to FOH for gigs). No reason it shouldn't sound absolutely stellar :0
using the 4cm and similiar cables Leon uses, I need to set input 2 noise gate to 100% to keep the rig super quiet. weirdly, there is no tone suck as far as i can tell. is this normal?
Hey Man, Is there any other way for the last connection used, which is instead of the xlr output 1 ?
Leon, when your just playing at home wanting to rock out do you just play the axe fx through some monitors and let the axe do all the amp simulating etc? or would you rather do the 4CM and get the full bore tone of a real amp? or do you find the fm3s amp/cabs fully satisfy through monitors?
I play the Axe through studio monitors way more. but amps are fun too.
Hey my friend. I watch these even without an FM3 just to hear your ideas and playing. It actually gives me ideas to use with other hardware. 😜
On another subject, and I apologize for that, but I'm wondering if you've done any just minimal effects pedals straight into an amp. ? I would love to know how you would setup delays and time based stuff using a CLEAN CHANNEL amp and using effects for distortion, modulation, delay, everything. I'm asking because I am thinking if one plays in cover bands like I used to do and many do, that effects straight into the amp are the way to go if you don't like modeling or already have pedals and an amp, etc.
Doesn't Steve Vai use the AxeFx for effects I'm thinking. You are the AxeFx and tech guru sir.
Can't wait to hear another " How not to play" episode and I really love the Friday q and As. All of your vids are great though..
Much tone suck from an FM3 in a tube amp fx loop? Of course all amps are a bit different, but general consensus? And anything that can’t be fixed by adding some EQ from the FM3?
How do I set up my FM9 for using the FM9 effects with my Fender Deluxe Reverb Amp that has no effects end and return?
Just go into in1, setup whatever fx you want and then use out 3 to thew amp as it's setup for unity gain
Hey Leon, love your videos on the FM3, lots of amazing info! I am using this method with my Marshall JCM 900. Regarding the effects loop in, is it bad to run a low signal back into the amp and then raise the master volume on the amp to compensate? I find this lets the power section tubes work without blasting my ears or needing an attenuator. What are your thoughts? Thanks!
Only way to know is to try it, and if it sounds good do it!
Hi, i have soon a Fractal FM3, my guitar amp is a Boss Katana Artists combo 100 (first one, not MKII) and a pair of PRESONUS ERIS E5 Studio Monitors, i guess it's the best sound to just use studio monitors with connection of both XLR to each monitor directly? i mean, i will never use any effects from my amp anyway. i live in an apartment with neighbours and can't play with high volume anyway
Anyway to use this on the axe 3 on the same preset to pre amp swap with scenes ?
Hi Leon ! Thanks for all your videos ! Can i use my FM3 with only a cab ?
not unless it's a powered cab, or or you have a power source. Either a solid state or tube power amp
Can you run an IR to front of house with the real amp from the fm3?
Is there a way to save the input and output settings as scene versions? I want to use my FM9 to run as a model direct to FOH and also have presets for 4cm with my tube amps but don’t want to have to constantly be tweaking the input and output page back and forth.
Is there any better way to go about switching the settings back and forth based on what rig I’m running?
Is there another way instead of using the Xlr to TRS cable which was the last you connected ?? i made all but i am missing this, so can i use a normal instrument cable instead or can i use just a TRS to TRS cable ?
Great Leon!! What i never understood. If you put a drive or eq from the digital unit in front of the real amp does it behave like using a pedal and boosting the input in the same way as a pedal would do?
yes, it will.
Yes exactly
Leon question for you. I run this live with my band. I use Iem and split to foh. The channel you have this plugged into on the board do you run dry? Any gain on the channel at all or do you just use levels to taste? When I used it live for the first time it sounded kinda thin and tinny.
Is it really "Cherry-a-tone"? I have only heard it as "Serry-a-tone", but I am ready to be corrected!
Hello Leon from Spain and Happy 2021!. How connect or subject fm3 to the temple audio pedalboard?
Video Suggestions: Making this on some of my favorites as well as yours which may be my favorite. REAL player.
The RUclips "GAS" confusion effect. I seem to have gotten myself into a Rut where I have so much "GEAR" I'm just confused.
"Probably" why I for years and still do reach for my Taylor (y it's me) . Good news front. Landed a 12 Martin When they Zig, I ZAG. But really want to become a better Electric player in 2020. I'm just geared out. Two whole setups. One pure digital. One mostly analog. Both have their flavors. Neither is unique to me. Whereas I pickup my Taylor it's me, every time. Have a fantastic Summer.
Great stuff Leon! I just tried 4CM with my Axe III coupled with my JP2C. I still need to do a preset like the second one in your vid to just use the power section of the 2C. So many possibilities, so little time.
Hey Todd! , is this setup is possible to
the Axe fx 3??
If i use out 3 to OD pedal to in 3.
Does the signal will interupt if i leave the pedal on while not using the fxloop in the preset???
How do you recommend connecting an FM3 to a practice amp without an effects loop?
Hey Leon thanks for this great video. I have a mesa California tweed and i have the axe 3 running through it the way you described the cabling. When i put delay after the preamp tje delay gets distorted if i have a pedal in front. so guitar into input of axe. Output 3 to front of amp, effects loop send into input 2, and output 4 to return of fx loop. I did the i/o settings but i cant get a clean delay with distortion tone.. any help is appreciated
Leon, so you will probably see my face a lot as I’m watching so many of your videos in anticipation of getting my FM3 this coming week. So you would have to turn you cab sim off to run this 4 cable method into a regular guitar cab? Or would you just not choose a cab? Thanks for any reply you can give.
I just wouldn't choose a cab, but disabling cab sims works too.
@@LeonTodd does your FM3 not come with a headphone jack? Mine is right above the instrument jack. And in this video I swore you took your XLR to TRS cable into the send? Wouldn’t you use a XLR to TS? Like aren’t all guitar amp stuff suppose to be TS cables? And if you were to hook this up to a audio interface you would simply use XLR out to XLR in on the audio interface correct? I’m just trying yo make sure I have the right cables. I ran a XLR to 1/4 inch out into a baby bomb power and then from the power amp to a 1X12 but it was very noisy so I’m wondering if I have the right cable?
Another question..
Is this setup possible in axefx 3 ???
In1 Guitar > axe3 Compression&PitchShifter > Out3 > Wah > In3 > Out4 > OD pedal > In4 > axe3 amp&cab > Out 1 > To PA
In & Out 3 is always on in preset
In & Out 4 Is just on in certain preset (in distorted tones only, it will be off in clean tones)
Is this setup will cause latency issue?? Because i will run almost 50ft in out3 to in3.....
Thanks for your reply😀
How would you add pedals to this loop?
Hello Leon.. having trouble getting the FM3 as preamp setup to work. Does the cable being TRS vs TS make the difference? I have these other setup working great when using the tube amps preamp with the FM3. Thanks is advance.
Got it squared away… pro tip.. make the lvl of the return is turned up… that was my issue
How are you recording this Leon , are you mic’ing a cab or going to a load box ?
Please help me out lol how can I use this connection method with also having my monitors and Cab connected ?
Hey Leon, whats the best way to run the FM3 through a poweramp (solid state) with a real cab and send an other Signal to foh? Can I disable the cab sim only for one output?
Thanks for all the great videos!
Cheers from Germany
Route it something like this ;
Out2
In1 - prefx - amp - post fx. ¦ - cab - Out1
Do you have to use 4 cable method ? What happens if you just plug in to the amp? Thanks!
Leon, I am looking for a multi effects unit for my Soldano HR50+. I know the loop is Line level in the HR so pedals are a little weird with it. Would the 4CM method you demonstrate here work well with the Soldano? I’ve read that all Fractal gear is default Line level. If you can’t tell I’m pretty confused lol
Hx effects? I think that’s what I’m going with
@@JoshyyJay I went with it and love it!