RickP
Established 1960, Still Not Dead
The tones are the same as the Axe Fx (which is great), the FM3 just lacks the processing power to run as heavy of a load. This may or may not matter, depending on what you need. It’s essentially a computer, so the more blocks you add, especially CPU-intense blocks like studio reverbs or modulation, can overload the processing power. I have not owned the FM3, but did own an AX8 for a while and the grab-n-go factor is hard to beat. You only have three foot switches available on the FM3 but, again, that may be enough. You can add outboard switches if you only need one or two more, or add the FC6 footswitch for 6 more… a combo humorously referred to as the OMG-9 on the Fractal Forums.Rick,
How do you feel about the FM3, perhaps with the FC6? Am currently visiting Fractal's site and listening to the FM3 demo. Seems more portable that the rack unit (which would typically require a SKB case for gigs),and is more compact. The preset and user banks are similar to the Axe Fx III, just with the smaller footprint. Could see this with the FC6 for faster switching between rigs/presets...
It’s a great option if the limitation on what blocks you can use don’t get in your way. Sound quality is 100% of the flagship. You just have to look at the differences. All of the Fractal devices have their own Wiki pages, which provide all information on them. Forum members, most Alex (Yek on the forum), maintain them. The one comparing the FM3 to the Axe Fx III is here:
https://wiki.fractalaudio.com/wiki/index.php?title=Comparing_the_FM3_to_the_Axe-Fx_III
Interestingly, I just received a Memorial Day sale from Fractal Audio, offering a new Axe Fx III, FC-12, EV-1 Expression Pedal and cable for $2899.99 all in. A lot of money, no doubt, but just used PRS Core guitar money these days. I was tempted to order and I already have one! Lol.