VERSION 9.0 | Public Beta 2 Aug 15, 2024
NEW FEATURES & UPDATES
•Amp Modeling Updates:
-Improved preamp algorithms, especially for amps with multiple gain stages. Tones are “gutsier” and have a more dynamic response with more “pop”. Also improves accuracy when input of Amp block is driven by a Drive pedal (whether real or virtual).
-New power amp algorithm. New algorithm more accurately models bias excursion and duty cycle modulation. This results in a more complex tone with better, punchier feel.
-Improved cathode follower algorithm improves accuracy near onset of clipping. This results in warmer tones at edge-of-breakup and better cleanup when rolling off the volume knob (for amps that use a cathode follower). Due to the new algorithm the “Grid Clipping” parameter has been removed.
-Improved phase inverter modeling in Amp block. This yields more “weight” and a more open tone when driving the virtual power amp hard (i.e. non-MV amps or MV turned up high). Updated phase inverter parameters for many models.
-Updated Plexi 100W and 1959SLP models. A soft reset of the Amp is required to load new values.
NOTE: The new amp algorithms are more accurate than prior firmware releases. This creates various “artifacts” that real tube amps produce. These include low-frequency intermodulation distortion, “clutter”, spitting and other non-ideal behaviors. These behaviors, however, are precisely what gives tube amps warmth, dynamics and character. They go hand-in-hand. Without these, amp modeling sounds sterile and uninteresting.
•Cab Block Updates:
-Added two new DynaCab types, 2x12 5153 Stealth and 4x12 5153 Stealth.
-Added “1x12 Friedman” speaker impedance curve to the amp block.
•Drive Block Updates:
-Improved Drive block. Remastered most models as a result.
-Drive block improvement: replaced fixed clip level value with data from the model itself.
-Updated Timothy models to V4 spec.
-Updated the Fat Rat model.
-Fixed a problem that could occur while adjusting Drive level on the Rat model.
•Added Kill-Dry option to the Mega-Tap Delay effect. (See firmware 7 release notes for more on Kill Dry)
•Improved optical types in Tremolo block. Additionally, the LFO Type, Duty Cycle and Shape are now set to the most appropriate values when selecting the Tremolo Type but may then be changed freely.
FIXES
•Cabinet Dyna-Cab Mic position default values updated to match Axe FX III. Double-click on mic position. Controls in FM3-Edit now successfully reset to default.
•Fixed pops/clicks that could occur when changing Preamp Type in Cabinet block.
•Fixed pops/clicks when using Stack/Hold in Plex Delay.
•Fixed clickspops when adjusting the Rat Distortion drive level.
•Fixed stand-in switch Tap functions not working in some cases.
•Fixed “4x12 Recto Straight” DynaCab Ribbon mic.
•Fixed Delay effect Kill Dry setting not taking effect at startup.
•Fixed an issue that could cause the bright switch to silence the Amp when gain was set too low.
•Corrected an issue where the effect block engaging banner message was not cleared.
•Fixed wrong dyna-cab type being loaded during preset recall in some cases.
•Fixed several FC related issues with Layout Links and Per Preset switches.
