From the Firmware Update Guide, enclosed with the firmware file:
FX8 FIRMWARE UPDATE GUIDE
What is Firmware? Why do I need to update?
Firmware is technically software. it runs like an operating system inside your FX8. Firmware uses version numbers: 1.01, 1.02, 2.0, etc. Every FX8 sell by Fractal Audio Systems is shipped with the latest version installed. You can check your version any time by pressing SETUP, UTILITY (#3) and paging to the FIRMWARE screen. Our products are upgradeable, and we are committed to continual improvement. The free updates we release are highly anticipated by our customers. We add new effects and features, upgrade capabilities, fix issues, and more. We recommend keeping the firmware in your unit up to date as new versions are released. Should you encounter any trouble with the update process, please refer to Troubleshooting & FAQ (p. 2).
How do I update my FX8?
Updating the firmware of your FX8 is easy with Fractal-Bot, our free MIDI utility.
I. Connect FX8 to your Computer using a standard USB cable (not included). A DRIVER is NOT required.
II. Install Fractal-Bot (Required only the first time you use it, or when an updated version becomes available).
Download and install Fractal-Bot from our web site at
Fractal Audio Systems - Fractal-Bot MIDI Utility for the Axe-Fx II and MFC-101
NOTE: Since the launch of Fractal-Bot, however, we no longer provide support for configuring or using 3rd party applications.
III. Download and Unzip The Firmware… And Read The Release Notes!
Since you’re reading this file typically packaged with firmware, you’ve probably done this already... If not, the latest firmware can be found on our web site at
Fractal Audio Systems - Firmware is packaged in a zip archive that may contain various documents in addition to the actual firmware, which will be a .syx file -- MIDI System Exclusive or “SysEx” file. Extract this .syx file to a location you can easily find when required. Do not double-click the .syx file. Fractal-Bot will prompt for its location when it is needed. Please read the “Release Notes” included with the firmware download. They’ll let you know what’s new and alert you to anything you may need to be aware of before updating to the new version.
IV. Launch Fractal-Bot And Perform The Update
Fractal-Bot is easy to use. Simply launch the application and proceed through three self-explanatory steps.
For additional information, consult the Fractal-Bot Manual, included with the Fractal-Bot download.
Before performing a firmware update, it may be wise to back up the settings of your FX8. Fractal-Bot’s RECEIVE feature provides a convenient and self-guided way to do this.
NOTE: Firmware updates will frequently be accompanied by new versions of the FX8 Factory Presets. These will be available on our web site support page and can also be installed using Fractal-Bot.
