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  1. hbucker

    Headrush 108 vs 112

    This is definitely the direction you should go.
  2. hbucker

    Headrush 108 vs 112

    Since I started this thread I now own both. The 108 since '19. The 112 since last year I got one used for $85. It has some road wear but is otherwise fully functional. Quite the bargain! Over all, the 112 sounds more balanced. Specifically the low end is somewhat tighter and more transparent...
  3. hbucker

    AX8 Acting Wonky....

    My AX8 is changing multiple presets with one push of the footswitch to change scenes. At the gig the other night I had to turn it off and turn it back on again jus to get it to respond after it skipped 20 presets away when controlling it within one preset (not trying to change presets. It will...
  4. hbucker

    Getting an acoustic sound from my electric guitar

    I just used Moke's simulator this last weekend for a show. It worked like a charm. I think I have the first one he put out for AX8.
  5. hbucker

    EVH 5150 III 50 watt - anybody else tried this thing?

    Old thread, I know... Just adding that I got this amp last month and it is indeed amazing, with no need what so ever to sound like EVH just because you play it. Every channel is really good at what it was intended for with simple ways to dial in anything from classic Fender cleans to crushing...
  6. hbucker

    AX8

    And turn turn off any IRs in your preset, with the assumption that you're running the Mesa into a traditional cab.
  7. hbucker

    IR's via my AX8

    Experience is a key here. If you run your AX8 direct to PA or FRFR, you will hear why IRs are necessary. Unless you like that fizzy, unnatural tone... Traditional speakers filter that out because they have a very focused frequency range - something IRs provide in an effort to simulate real...
  8. hbucker

    Help me with my AX8

    Go to the "Footswitches" button underneath the block window. It will pull up a window with the individual switches, which you can individually assign any effect in your preset.
  9. hbucker

    Help me with my AX8

    You can also set your switches up like a traditional pedal board. Each switch for a different effect.
  10. hbucker

    Noob question on what kind of power amp / monitors are a good choice for the AX8 ...

    I don't have a specific recommendation for monitors. But... Before I got an FRFR - Mine is even the basic Headrush, so no need to spend lots of $$ - I got great tones out of my AX8 regardless of what I was playing it through. Yet, when I went from powered speaker, to traditional cab, to...
  11. hbucker

    Would you sell your AX8 to buy a new FM3?

    I really doubt I would sell my AX8 for FM3. 1. AX8 sounds great and I really don't use many of the deeper features on it. 2. The old-school part of me (that had to be talked into computer based amps in the first place) is the same part of me that basically pushes back against the idea of...
  12. hbucker

    Too much bass

    Low and High cut on the cab block will be very helpful.
  13. hbucker

    Why set Cab low and high cutoffs?

    These adjustments make the cab customizable to individual tastes and goals for how they want a preset to sound. Not unlike Bass, Mid, Treb EQ adjustments on an amp. "Well, if the amp is a great amp, why would you need to use an EQ on it?" I'm not sure anyone would ask this question, but the...
  14. hbucker

    Ax8 amp modeling through power amp

    I put an effects loop block at the end of my chain that bypasses the IR (which you generally want to disable in this situation, but there are no rules.) If you don't set it up to bypass the IR, you'd need to manually disable the IR or simply don't include the IR in your preset. Then, I use the...
  15. hbucker

    Another speaker question

    I've tried my AX8 through a 112 tube combo, 212 cab with power amp, standard wedge monitor and a Headrush FRFR. For sure, each was different - having their own unique qualities. Sometimes adjustments are required between formats (beyond turning off the IRs). The best sound I've gotten is...
  16. hbucker

    Organizing Banks

    For general use I have my 8 favorite presets in one bank of 8. For a band situation I have a separate bank for presets needed for the music. I'm not a real complex guy so this really does it for me. For others here, this wouldn't be nearly enough as they require many more presets.
  17. hbucker

    IR'S

    Hard to recommend IRs. They seem to be very personal preference as to the tone each person is looking for. But yes, as others have said, it's a night and day difference from IR to IR.
  18. hbucker

    No FRFR at gigs?

    IEMs and FOH are very practical for many reasons. But there can be a learning curve with this. When I began with IEMs I was startled at how much I had gotten use to vibing off of the stage volume and the chemistry that can provide. IEMs felt dry and sterile to me. But it's a skill, like singing...
  19. hbucker

    Popping During Scene Change

    I have this issue also. Happens in different presets in different ways. Popping/loud thump between scenes. My 2 latest are not even "kitchen sink" presets. Just an X/Y amp and a couple different effects on and off between scenes. It does seem to have something to do with whether or not I'm...
  20. hbucker

    Spaghetti Western tone with AX8

    I'd start with a very clean Fender style model with lots of headroom. Spring reverb. And a guitar with single coils. Play around hard with the high-low cuts on the Cab Block. Then see where it goes.
  21. hbucker

    Why doesn't Fractal Audio want to make AX8 Mark II model like FX8 Mark II anymore?

    I do think there is a middle ground: the player might get more personal inspiration from "better" but the audience doesn't perceive any audible differences. There is also the scenario, and I've seen this many times, where the Fractal guitarist on stage was inspired as heck, but between the...
  22. hbucker

    AX8 Hard Case

    Yes, you would remove the AX8 from the Rigid case to use it. If you need a pedalboard style case then the Rigid is not for you. As for the problem ScottP ran into - sorry to hear this - I'm not aware of the part of the case that hits this button. I do put my AX8 in the case with the...
  23. hbucker

    Simple recording with AX8 into Garage Band?

    I us the Scarlet 2i2.
  24. hbucker

    AX8 Hard Case

    I use the Rigid case. I put a small amount of foam in mine to keep it snug. But really, this thing is bullet proof, and super inexpensive.
  25. hbucker

    Drive Blocks

    I feel you. I'm a knob-turner at heart and have traditionally enjoy the simplicity of a basic pedal. It sounds the way it sounds and a couple of adjustments either make it sound better or not. I too find the as loaded drive blocks in the AX8 to be less than satisfying much of the time. But will...
  26. hbucker

    So i'm just a boomer tryin' to keep up

    I'm guessing the only difference you'll experience is a slow down, or even halt of firmware upgrades. But I could even be wrong about this. Otherwise, just use it the way you have been. Beyond hardware failures, you should be able to use it as is for years.
  27. hbucker

    Speaker hum or "fart" sound

    Generally, speaker farting comes from pumping too much low end into the speakers and they simply cannot handle it, especially at the volume you're playing. I'd look at the low frequency cut on your cab block. Roll it back (raise the frequency) until you're not hearing the farting anymore. If...
  28. hbucker

    Too pleased with the form factor of the AX8 to even think about the FM3

    Once upon a time, guitar players found the gear that worked well for them and used it for years and years with little pressure to buy the newest, nicest, bestest gear that replaced their obsolete products - mostly because their gear wasn't becoming obsolete. I think that's still possible with...
  29. hbucker

    Solo boost volume

    You could use an EQ. Either strategically boost frequencies that will help your sound stand out, or slightly raise all of the frequencies in the guitar range. Raising a few key mid frequencies with an EQ is how I've always boosted my solos so they stand out above the mix.
  30. hbucker

    AX8 with subpar PA

    With traditional amps, it's been my experience that a sub-par PA means you're probably using backline (un-mic'd amps) sound for guitars anyway. Saving the PA for vocals only. I don't think this approach changes much with modelers. If I were you, I'd just set my FRFR up in the backline and...
  31. hbucker

    RIDGID case warning

    This is what I do, for the same reasons. In addition, I've got mine padded so it fits very tight. No bouncing around inside the case.
  32. hbucker

    No Right Side Output?

    I've got this issue also. Just need to find a moment to send it in for repair.
  33. hbucker

    Best FRFR for AX8?

    My opinion is that you could probably be quite happy with the Headrush 112. I also think the Friedman probably sounds a little better, especially for those kinds of tones. Probably nothing a little EQ can't fix though. As for the China thing, so many products are made in China anymore, I...
  34. hbucker

    Dealing with coil splits on the AX8

    Specifically with coil splitting, I don't have a problem with volume differences that I don't also account for with wanting a single coil tone in the first place. Yes, some overdrive drops out, but for me that's part of the point of going to single coil mode. I would think a compressor would...
  35. hbucker

    Headrush 108 vs 112

    Do you find the amp on these speakers running pretty hot to the touch? It makes sense to me, but I was a little surprised at how hot my 108 was getting tonight at moderate to high volumes.
  36. hbucker

    Headrush 108 vs 112

    Honestly, I wonder if dialing tone in on any speaker will guarantee you won't want to tweak your tone in a live setting. PAs vary from venue to venue as well as the person working the board and how they choose to eq/mix you. One size fits all just doesn't seem realistic. That leaves me with...
  37. hbucker

    Best FRFR for AX8?

    I just went through a similar search and settled with the Headrush 108. It arrives today so I don't have the ability to recommend it or not. Beyond the price, what made that appealing to me was the reports I've heard on how it sounds plus the small portability of it. Since you're a Metal guy, I...
  38. hbucker

    AX8 Monitor best frequency response

    Another factor is the genre of music someone plays. For many, low end punch is handled by the bass player and the guitar resides primarily in the traditional mid-range. Others (Metal) do indeed require more low end. Lots of factors here, including the variety of quality FRFR products that all...
  39. hbucker

    AX8 Monitor best frequency response

    I don't disagree with a thing you've said. I just have a couple of thoughts. - A perfectly flat respones is very difficult to achieve. So even quality flat response speakers from different manufacturers will tend to have varying tonal characteristics. - On paper, if a player wants to "do it...
  40. hbucker

    Headrush 108 vs 112

    CLR seems like what would sound the best. I've never heard a bad thing about how it sounds. But the small/portability thing is also something that holds value for me. Do you find the 108 to be extremely directional? I'm glad to hear it works well in a band setting.
  41. hbucker

    Headrush 108 vs 112

    I'm looking for experienced opinions as I consider these two FRFRs for my Ax8. I'm trying to avoid the "bigger is always better" approach to this and find the 108 size to be very appealing. The 112 size doesn't put me off though. Volume seems to not be an issue with either one. How different...
  42. hbucker

    Balancing Cleans to Distortion

    To add to the difficulty, EQ can have a major effect on how "loud" a channel sounds. I find most of the time when I combine clean and overdrive amps this is my biggest issue with how easy one or the other (mostly overdrive) stands out in the mix. Rather than concerning yourself exclusively...
  43. hbucker

    Getting an acoustic sound from my electric guitar

    Moke's is good. Keep in mind that no simulator can completely mimic all of the tone and dynamics of a real acoustic, but getting close enough for most live mixes is achievable.
  44. hbucker

    Cab simulation with guitar cab?

    The general rule is that you turn off the cab block (or bypass it) when running into a traditional cab. I bypass my cab block in this situation because I want the cab to speak for itself (so to speak). One way you can look at it is the idea of the IR being an EQ that changes the tone of your...
  45. hbucker

    Scene Controllers or Modifiers to adjust Input Drive & Trim...?

    I'm trying to set up modifiers on the input drive on 4 scenes, different input drive settings for each scene. XY with two amps. No matter what I do, the input drive remains the same across both amps, all four scenes. Cannot find directions on how to do this. Suggestions? Or is this not...
  46. hbucker

    AX8 | What's the best allround amp?

    I must admit, I'm not sure what trash sounds are... But you can XY and use two amps for even more versatility. Brownface is my choice for clean and slightly overdriven tones. Some version of the PV 5150 tends to be my go to for higher gain tones. If you really just want one amp, I'm really...
  47. hbucker

    3rd Party IRs a solution for stemming off "obsolescence"?

    This comment is generally where I land on the subject. I also understand the point of the OP, and even have to agree with the point, for the most part. According to many users on this forum the AX8 has been a huge source of acquiring a fantastic tone that they can't really achieve even with...
  48. hbucker

    Newbie here with a question...

    I've bought some, but I've found that making my own and dialing them in to my taste is the best way to go. No matter how good someone else's presets are, I still tend to dial them into what I like/hear/desire. Keep playing around with it. Over time, you'll get use to some of the basic...
  49. hbucker

    AX8 Discontinued?

    For those who don't own one of these products already, there are quite a few decisions to make. Since I already own an AX8, there is no decision. Nothing good/bad or right/wrong about it. It's just what it is.
  50. hbucker

    Best FW for AX8

    Never experienced any strangeness with 10.01 that I didn't with previous FW. And none of these with any FW were something that affected me in real time while playing. It's mostly been minor stuff while connected to Axe Edit - But again, these have been with all FW levels.
  51. hbucker

    AX8 Discontinued?

    If three buttons are better, I wonder why didn't they just make it with one button for the ultimate in performance and convenience?
  52. hbucker

    Help Cutting Through the Mix in Band Rehearsal

    The bottom line is that you'll need to experiment with advice here and everywhere. My advice is to forget about dialing in your tone while you're by yourself. Do it in a band setting so you can fit into the mix. Pay attention to mids for cutting through. Leave most of the low end for the bass...
  53. hbucker

    AX8 straight into a small tube amp

    As everyone is basically saying, the bottom line is that you probably can't get the most out of your AX8 without at minimum, having a traditional amp with a power amp line in/FX loop line in. Even then, you'll probably want to eliminate the Cab Block from your preset - which is limiting the AX8...
  54. hbucker

    AX8 straight into a small tube amp

    Yes. I've been able to get great results by doing this. Only block to bypass is the cab block.
  55. hbucker

    Looking for ideas on gain boost for low output single coil lead

    Your over all description of the desired tone sounds like you want a more compressed tone, not necessarily more gain. I think of these things in their simplest, more traditional ways. So my inclination is to suggest compression first. Play around with not only the compression itself, but where...
  56. hbucker

    Any word of a new AX8?

    No judgement with this question. I'm just curious: Does the desire for an AX3 or something similar (smaller) have to do with acquiring something more affordable? Or is it purely a desire for something smaller, more compact? Could be a combo of these, I'm sure. I just find the AX8 to be mighty...
  57. hbucker

    Home speakers

    I find this to be true. Once I train my ear to what "loud" presets sound like at reasonable volumes, it becomes pretty easy to dial new ones in at reasonable volumes - barring any fine adjustments that will need to be made in the moment regardless of how it sounds in my practice room.
  58. hbucker

    Home speakers

    I have flat response, studio headphones and building presets by just using headphones has not worked very well for me. Whatever sounds great in the phones often doesn't translate well to speakers. Live speakers always sound best, and some version of frfr will sound different than even decent...
  59. hbucker

    Can o worms!

    It's a learning curve.
  60. hbucker

    Buying presets or going with original AX8 presets?

    I've bought a few presets. While they are fun/okay to play, they aren't me. I am much better off making my own, or in some cases modifying factory presets to my own tastes. Unless I do this, I always feel like I'm playing someone else's amp.
  61. hbucker

    Any digital clipping in AX8?

    When I read your o.p. I was wondering if you were just pushing something too hard. That's what your description sounded like to me. Glad you got if fixed.
  62. hbucker

    AX8 into effects return of combo

    When I run my AX8 into the loop of an amp I just use it entirely as the preamp, which includes adjusting the volume from the AX8. I agree with the above post that being able to adjust the volume exclusively from the amp depends on the design of the amp. Most amps I've owned would not allow for...
  63. hbucker

    AX8 into effects return of combo

    I agree. And I believe this applies to any tonal suggestions from others that includes the word, "always."
  64. hbucker

    AX8 into effects return of combo

    I've found putting an EQ before my FX loop allows me to adjust the send to the amp more to my liking compared to the line out to a powered monitor with an IR. FWIW
  65. hbucker

    Can I really live without scribble strips?

    I have to admit, I don't really know what scribble strips do. I've only heard the term. I do wish editing (beside basic eq and level adjustments) on the AX8 itself were more intuitive. A larger, higher resolution screen would also be nice, but the existing screen does what it needs to do for...
  66. hbucker

    Best way to dial in Proximity in Cab block?

    I used it all the time for the first year or so of my AX8 experience. But for me, there was no secret juice. I just turned knobs till it sounded right in the patch I was using. I've since converted to the "don't use it" crowd. I like feel like my tone without it is more natural. I'm always...
  67. hbucker

    Hopes somewhat dashed........

    I rarely have a piece of gear that I wouldn't tweak somehow in order to make it "better" for me. The AX8 is no exception. With that, I still have no expectations that I would automatically jump at whatever new version Fractal puts out, whenever that is. From a performance standpoint I really...
  68. hbucker

    Reality check tonight

    For me, emphasizing mids on high gain and rolling back some highs is the secret to good high gain without the cheap sounding, annoying fizz. As was mentioned earlier, using less gain than one might think is also good. It's still gainy, but no longer a muddy mess.
  69. hbucker

    AX8: Going from a recording studio monitor to our PA

    I've found no exception to the reality that my presets just sound different through different speakers. I'd copy your recording preset over to another spot and tweak it exclusively for your PA. I plugged my AX8 directly into my friend's JBL powered PA speakers and had the opposite problem...
  70. hbucker

    On what speaker should I create sounds?

    I've found that no matter what speaker I dial in a preset with, that preset will sound at least slightly different on another speaker. Sometimes a lot different. So going from PA to PA you'll have to do some adjustments anyway. I agree with your earlier comment: headphones are not the best...
  71. hbucker

    Reality check tonight

    FWIW: I set my cab low and high cuts has high as 200 on the low. And as low as 4000-4500 for the high. Of course, these vary on the amp and cab I'm using. 8000 on the high end would be really high for me, on average. I would get a harsh fizziness to my tone that I just don't like. Just don't be...
  72. hbucker

    Reality check tonight

    I'm hardly an expert - had my AX8 for 1.5 years. But I've not run into the issue's you're describing. So it seems like there is an adjustment somewhere that can be made. For me, the AX8 can actually have too many adjustments that can be made, which can have me tweaking things I have no...
  73. hbucker

    5150 Stealth EL34 version?

    That's what I was thinking. I'm also guessing that these different amps feature tweaks in the design other than tubes. But your recommendation is a good place to start.
  74. hbucker

    How to tweak

    No. Nothing consistent here.
  75. hbucker

    How to clean your AX8?

    For dust I've found nothing easier or better than an ostrich feather duster.
  76. hbucker

    Is AX8 good for everything?

    Bottom line, you can use your AX8 in the exact same way you use (and are happy with) your Vetta. Run it through a power amp and a traditional guitar cab and you're there. So no, you don't need a PA system to use it. Direct to PA exclusively is only one option. But you do bring up a good point...
  77. hbucker

    How to tweak

    Honestly, anytime I've ever downloaded someone else's presets they don't sound the same through my gear. (through a variety of amplification methods) I agree with the High and Low cut advice on the cab block. This is a very dynamic and easy tone shaping tool on the AX8. With that, you can start...
  78. hbucker

    Newbie with some questions

    With the setup the OP is outlining, I believe he can monitor in stereo through his studio speakers, but not headphones. 2i2 has RCA stereo out which he'll run to his amp and speakers.
  79. hbucker

    Newbie with some questions

    The Scarlett 2i2 is what I use along with the setup you describe. I use a Yamaha receiver though. Just make sure it's set for standard stereo output and not on any of the surround settings. As was mentioned above, your speakers will make or break this setup. The AX8 mini is just rumors and...
  80. hbucker

    Can't get a good amp/cab sound out of my AX8...

    I completely understand. There has been good gear that I've not been able to bond with. It was me, not the gear. FWIW: "A couple hours of tweaking" is only scratching the surface with the possibilities of the AX8. But I suppose it's no different than my inability to bond with a Telecaster. I'm...
  81. hbucker

    Bought a boost pedal but it only boost clean and not gain

    I understand your sentiment here. I do miss both the visual and tactile experience of having my pedalboard laid out in front of me. I'm still getting use to how small the AX8 is by comparison. The positive trade off is being able to pull up much more variety by just pushing one pedal/button...
  82. hbucker

    AX8 through an amp

    This is what I've found. Some minor eq adjustments need to be made depending on where I'm sending my signal, but all can sound some version of great.
  83. hbucker

    AX8 through an amp

    I don't think I agree that it sounds better one way or another. Variety is the spice of life. But playing through the effects in on a traditional amp sounds great. I also run it through a power amp into a 2x12 cab = sounds great. While going direct sounds great, the problem that can happen going...
  84. hbucker

    Is there a negative to using Cab block Level for solo boost? How do you create your boost for solos?

    I still maintain that there are no rules. Do what you want to get the sounds you need. Period. Even though the AX8 is an entirely new approach to creating the tones we all love, I still try to keep my approach to these things as standardized as I can in order to create tones the ways I've...
  85. hbucker

    Is there a negative to using Cab block Level for solo boost? How do you create your boost for solos?

    Ive always been a fan of an EQ in the loop with strategic mids boosted slightly. But there are several good ways to do it. Whatever works best for you is the ticket.
  86. hbucker

    Can't get a good amp/cab sound out of my AX8...

    The High and Low cut adjustment on your IR is also a good place to look.
  87. hbucker

    Can't get a good amp/cab sound out of my AX8...

    I've found it's a mistake to look at what an artist uses (amp and cab specifically) - thinking that all you have to do is set your preset up with those and assume you'll get the exact sound you're looking for. I've had ZERO luck doing this. I love EVH. I have several of his exact guitars. I...
  88. hbucker

    Can't get a good amp/cab sound out of my AX8...

    Without an IR it will sound very sterile and crappy for anyone going direct. Not only should you be able to hear big differences between different amps, I've never played any amp that illustrated the differences between different guitars (through the same preset) as the AX8. Some of the models...
  89. hbucker

    One amp at a time

    Get your presets where you want them at home and you won't need anything but a few tweaks on the AX8 knobs to adjust them at practice, or live - just like you would do with a "real" amp. Honestly, I wouldn't recommend deep editing or major amp/IR changes on the fly in these live situations...
  90. hbucker

    Combat "too many amps" issue

    While I've gone through the presets, I've only taken a handful of them and made them my own. Most sound like someone else's tone to me. Still, I'm glad they are there. It's a nice reference point, both for tones and for how certain presets are set up. No worries here.
  91. hbucker

    AX8 Carry Case...a tip for you..

    I had an old yoga matte lying around. Used contact cement and doubled up the thickness as needed. It doesn't take much - just enough to keep it from rattling around.
  92. hbucker

    One amp at a time

    FWIW: I've had my AX8 for 1.5 years, and the computer part of it is still my least favorite part of the unit. When I first got it, I really wanted to throw it out of the nearest window out of frustration... BUT! Now that I've had it for a while, I have been able to play around with it, find out...
  93. hbucker

    Preset Rundown

    I like the preset. Very usable. Thx!
  94. hbucker

    FX Send/Main Out Clip

    Patch = Preset (sorry for confusion) Audible. Will look at VU - Have done that in the past. Sometimes seems like no rhyme or reason why one would clip and another wouldn't. Probably not for me to understand. Thx!
  95. hbucker

    FX Send/Main Out Clip

    I always try to keep these lights from coming on, but how much should I care if these flicker once in a while? Especially when I can't hear any of the clipping? These flickers vary widely from patch to patch, even though the patches are at the same volume level.
  96. hbucker

    AX8 CPU Usage Check

    Glancing at your attachment, I'm guessing that your CPU on the AX8 would be maxed out. The AX8 would then turn your Reverb off to accommodate. In the second preset, I think your Chorus and Reverb would put it over the top. The first preset might be close. Changing Reverb to something that...
  97. hbucker

    Combat "too many amps" issue

    Over time I just gravitate to certain amps. Right now Brownface, JCM 800, and PV 5150 can pretty much get me where I need to go. Behind that is a Bassman and a Badger. I do agree. However you arrange it, simpler is better.
  98. hbucker

    Sold My AX8, Bought a Mark V

    What is "best" is always up to user experience. If it wasn't, we'd all tend to have the same tone and music would not be nearly as interesting. For sure, there is a difference between using a real amp in a room and my AX8. Although I must say, running it through a power amp and a conventional...
  99. hbucker

    general

    FWIW: I had a couple if these, https://www.seismicaudiospeakers.com/collections/powered-monitors/products/powered-15-inch-wedge-monitor-350w already when I got my AX8 and they work very well. Very cost effective too. For sure you can buy better. But for the price, these are excellent, and price...
  100. hbucker

    Cab Block: High and Low Cut Settings

    Depends on the music, amp, and cab, but I generally start with a lot narrower settings. 180ish low and 4.5k ish high. Most real cabs have very narrow frequency responses so I try to mimic that with the idea that "narrower" will fit in the mix much better. I also think my tone sounds more...
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