[Differences and how to choose] A thorough comparison of Fractal Audio Ax-Fx III, FM9 Turbo, and FM3 Turbo [Recommendations for different uses]

• 3U rack mount type (no foot switch)
• Overwhelming DSP processing power (+25% with Turbo)
• Up to 2 amps, 2 cabinets, and multiple effects can be used simultaneously
• Four stereo inputs and outputs, plus comprehensive digital I/O
• Many unique features such as Tone Match, IR Capture, and FullRes IR
• Compatible with optional foot controllers (FC-6/FC-12)
• Can be used for everything from home recording to professional studios and large-scale tours

• Floor type with 9 foot switches
• 4-core DSP for high simultaneous processing power (Turbo version is +10% or more)
• Two amps, two cabinets, and a wide range of effects can be used simultaneously
• Supports the same sound quality and algorithms as Axe-Fx III
• Complete your live performance with this standalone device. USB 8in/8out for home recording too
• The weight is about 5.4kg, which is a little large.
• Many people say that this is the most well-balanced and "most practical model."

• Compact floor type with 3 switches
• 2-core DSP (Turbo +10% or more)
• One amp, one cab, and basic effects can be used simultaneously
• USB 4in/4out for home recording
• Compact and easy to carry, weighing approximately 3.3kg
• Expanded operability with external footswitches and pedals
• Popular as an entry-level, secondary, or portable device

• "Sound and feel that's close to a real amp"
  → People were amazed at the responsiveness and expressiveness, which was comparable to that of the actual amplifier.
• "Overwhelmingly useful for production and recording"
  → Highly rated for its comprehensive range of production-oriented features, including Tone Match and IR Capture.
• "It has a wide range of inputs and outputs, and offers great freedom in setup."
  → Ideal for professional use with multiple outputs and multiple effect loops.
• "The peace of mind of being able to permanently install it in a rack"
  → Since it does not need to be placed on the floor, it also helps to reduce the risk of trouble.
• "It's convenient to be able to separate the foot switch from the main unit."
  → Place the unit at the side of the stage or inside a rack, and keep the space at your feet to a minimum.

• "The price is too high"
  → The unit and foot controller together cost over 50 yen. It's hard to buy for a hobbyist.
• "It's big, it's heavy, and it takes up a lot of rack space."
  → If you don't have a rack at home or in your personal studio, the hurdle for implementation is high.
• "A little inconvenient for live performances"
  → It cannot be operated by foot on its own, so a separately sold FC is essentially required.

• "The best overall balance"
  → Many people say this is the "best model" in terms of balance between sound quality, performance, operability, and price.
• "Ready for live performances"
  → Operation is completed with 9 switches. No separate foot switch is required, so it can be used immediately during live performances.
• "Sound quality comparable to the Axe-Fx III"
  → Many people say that they feel almost no difference in sound quality despite using the same algorithm and supporting IR.
• "Professional guitarists are also moving to FM9."
  → Guthrie Govan and Neal Schon use FM9 in their live performances.
• "Great for home recording, and a high-performance USB I/F"
  → 8in/8out for smooth re-amping.

• "It's a little heavy."
  → At about 5.4 kg, it is quite heavy for a floor-mounted device. Some people find it inconvenient to carry it around frequently.
• "There was a time when availability was poor."
  → Immediately after release, there was a long waiting list for reservations. Things are improving now.
• "External expansion is limited."
  → Up to two FCs can be added. It is slightly less flexible than the Axe-Fx III.

• "Small but amazing quality"
  → Many people who only need one amplifier say they are very satisfied with this one unit.
• "The most affordable price range"
  → An ideal entry model for users new to Fractal.
• "It's incredibly easy to carry"
  → It weighs just 3.3kg, so you can easily carry it in your backpack.
• "A sufficient number of effects"
  → Drive and spatial effects are also available, making it perfect for home recording or small-scale live performances.
• "Operability can be expanded with external switches"
  → Additional switches can be connected via the TRS terminal, allowing for customization later.

• "There are not enough foot switches, so it's difficult to use live."
  → There are many long presses and page switches, so some users find it hard to use intuitively.
• "DSP performance is limited"
  → Ambient or heavy patches may cause CPU insufficiency.
• "Some effects are simplified versions"
  → There are differences in algorithms between higher-end models for pitch shifting, reverb, etc.
• "Expanding ends up being expensive."
  → If you add FC, etc., the final cost may end up being the same as FM9.

FM9 Turbo
→ Equipped with 9 switches, it is fully compatible with live performances on its own.
→ High visibility and flexible layout switching provide peace of mind even in the field.
→ One user said, "It covers 99% of my needs."

FM3 Turbo
→ Lightweight, compact and easy to carry.
→ The number of switches is small, but can be expanded.
→ Suitable for small-scale live performances and space-saving setups.

Axe-Fx III Mark II Turbo
→ Supports live performances when combined with the separately sold FC-6/FC-12.
→ Good for complex routing and multi-out configurations.
→ The rack system allows the signal processing unit to be placed on the side of the stage for added security.

Axe-Fx III
→ Abundant production features including Tone Match and IR Capture.
→ USB 8in/8out, abundant I/O allows for flexible recording.
→ Ideal for permanent installation in a rack.

FM9 / FM3
→ High performance as a USB audio interface.
→ FM9 has ample room for recording tracks and IR processing.
→ FM3 can ensure sufficient sound quality with a minimum configuration.