FM9 Firmware Version 4.00 public beta 1 is now available for download:
https://www.fractalaudio.com/downloads/firmware-presets/fm9/4p0/fm9_dsp_rel_4p00_beta_1.syx
The current version of FM9-Edit is required for use with this release:
https://forum.fractalaudio.com/threads/fm9-edit-1-01-03-to-support-fw-4-00-public-beta-1.189064/
IMPORTANT NOTE: Starting with firmware 3.00, FM9-Edit 1.01.00 (or greater) is required to communicate with the FM9. Previous versions of FM9-Edit (versions 1.00.06 or less) are not compatible with firmware 3.00 or greater. FM9-Edit 1.01.00 (or greater) is not compatible with previous firmware versions 1.0 through 2.02.
Version 4.0 - November 18, 2022
FM9 firmware version 4.00 implements Fractal Audio Systems “Cygnus X-2” amplifier modeling. The default values of various parameters have been updated. Existing presets are automatically updated to the new values upon loading.
New Features
- Added new amp models: "Brit Studio 20" and “Plexi 50W 6CA7 Jumped” and “Herbie MK3”.
- Added “Overdrive Volume” parameter to Dumble-type amp models (ODS-100, Two Stone, etc.). This is sometimes labeled “Ratio” or “Lead Master”. As the Master Volume on these amps often has a bright capacitor, the Overdrive Volume control allows setting the Master Volume higher to counteract the bright cap and then lowering the power amp drive with the Volume.
- Added “Plate Suppressor Diodes” parameter. This value is set automatically when the amp model is chosen but the user can override the default setting. Most amps do not have suppressor diodes but some do (e.g., Trainwreck Express). These diodes (also called “snubber” or “flyback” diodes) prevent undershoot on the power tube plates due to inductive kick and reduce upper harmonics thereby reducing “fizz”.
- Added “Griddle Cake” Drive model based on a Crowther Hot Cake. The “XLF” switch on the pedal can be replicated by turning the Bass Response knob fully CW.
- Improved the amp block output transformer algorithm. The new algorithm more accurately models B-H curve, resulting in a clearer low end. The new algorithm now also accounts for the effect of speaker impedance on transformer response.
- Improved power tube modeling. This yields better dynamics and improved low frequency accuracy.
- Improved cathode follower algorithm. Provides more accurate “cleanup” when volume is rolled off.
- Improved triode algorithm which more accurately models plate bypass capacitors.
- Improved Drive block modeling to more accurately model effects of op-amp finite open-loop gain and GBW product.
- The CPU overload condition is now re-evaluated when a new preset is loaded via the edit buffer from FM9-Edit.
Updates
- All amp models are updated for use with Cygnus X-2.
- The Ideal amp controls have been updated.
- Renamed USA Clean to USA Rhythm 1 to be more in line with actual amp.
- MIDI clock data at the MIDI In DIN connector will cause the “MIDI IN” LED to be on.
Fixes
- Normally closed type stand-in switches operate properly.
- FC “Banner Messages” being displayed doesn’t cause the entire LCD to redraw.
- The external SPDIF clock will be used automatically after boot when signal is preset and SPDIF Word Clock mode is selected.
- The Reverb effect wet/dry mixing strategy is changed to match the latest Axe FX III method.
- The AMP effect speaker impedance curve graph is now calculated using the same method as the Axe FX III.
- The Foot Controller layout will not inadvertently be changed when using controls that cause “Banner Messages” to be displayed.
- External foot controller stand-in switch assignment mapping is corrected.
- Fixed wrong coupling capacitor value in 1959SLP Treble, 1959SLP Jumped and 1987x Treble amp models.
- Fixed wrong resistor value in tone stack of Solo 88 Rhythm and Lead models.
- Fixed low frequency behavior of Recto2 models due to loss of precision.
- Fixed wrong treble pot taper in CA3+ models.
- Fixed wrong capacitor value in Friedman HBE V1 Fat model.
- Fixed wrong resistor value in AC-20 12AX7 models.
- Fixed wrong Depth knob taper in Archean models.
- MIDI PC Mapping “To Scene” function is corrected.
- The “Scene Revert” setting is taken into account when recalling a scene with a MIDI CC command.
