Understood and I like the axe3. However, use an overhead mic then, simple , to say its hard to mic an frfr is the ongoing conclusion of , its sounds like a cab after its micd* Any amplifier I've owned , including a Be100 and Friedman moded jmp/kitchen sink I've never considered I am listening to a micd cab with said microphone going to a board or whatever to enjoy the sounds of it or any tube amp. I can use a cell phone and record phenomenal results. Should be simple enough to do the same with frfr, I guarantee it wont sound the same as a Be100 and cab, so there's that. Frfr is cool and fun and sounds great. To say that is a good comparison to a be100 and a 4x12 isn't reality. To end the ridiculous comparison, when you go audition an amp to purchase do you make your decision on how it sounds after it's micd and mixed into a pa or said monitor? I guarantee YOU or 95% of anyone who demos one live isn't buying it because of what it sounds like after its micd up. A 4x12 without a mic kicks ass period, does not need any " well that's what it sounds like after its micd. I purchase a tube amp on how it feels and sounds thru a traditional cab. Not a micd one. Feel, tone, quality. Ymmv
In line with the OP question. How does a axe3 compare to BE100.. not how does it compare after its micd up. Regardless, at bedroom volume a BE100 shouldn't even be a discussion IMO. A half stack isnt something that's been pioneered from a bedroom, I would never understand anyone purchasing an amp with headroom that do not need or will never use. To me it's simple, there is nothing like the real thing, ever. Is the difference so negligible most want know the difference, probably so. However I am not most, I am defined by what inspires me. The axe3 truly inspires 10fold. Sold most of my tube amps, not because of the axe or Mary Poppins, because I had them and enjoyed them for many years. I still own a couple and still gig with them. I am not touring the world so I do not have a fly rig. Peace