LiquidGuitar
Inspired
*First, big props to Fractal for allowing and encouraging reviews.
Background: I've played guitar for about 25 years, been in recording studios, self recording since '98, self-described tube amp snob.
Story: I saw an ad for a Mooer modeler in Premier Guitar and thought, "hell, I could mess with one of those". But, as I do, I quickly wanted the best and was led to Fractal. This is why: a) great sounding demos on YouTube (partly because of Leon Todd), b) I had confidence I could problem solve with the awesome message board community, c) the manuals were well-written.
Quick verdict: 10 out of 10 stars. One of the best guitar purchases I've ever made. Excellent value.
Longer verdict:
---Pros:
i) Amazing sound quality.
ii) After a short learning curve, I just got the system and am fully confident in it.
iii) Built like a tank.
iv) Excellent overall value.
v) Amazing presets.
vi) Awesome message board community.
vii) Awesome updates.
---Cons:
i) I've had a hard time mating it with the right power amp. Headphones and recording are great, but I'm still working on using the effects loop of a tube amp. I'll probably just get a SS power amp one day, but until then, that part of the equation isn't perfect.
*****
Conclusion: I've played (and owned) some fantastic amps and the FM3 sounds just as good. I'm blown away. I've compared the pedals to the real ones and... they sound the same. I'll probably have a Fractal unit as long as I'm playing guitar.
And, if anyone is listening:
i) Please don't add a touchscreen to future products!
ii) Please don't make future products Wi-Fi only (or Wi-Fi at all)!
Thanks Fractal!
Background: I've played guitar for about 25 years, been in recording studios, self recording since '98, self-described tube amp snob.
Story: I saw an ad for a Mooer modeler in Premier Guitar and thought, "hell, I could mess with one of those". But, as I do, I quickly wanted the best and was led to Fractal. This is why: a) great sounding demos on YouTube (partly because of Leon Todd), b) I had confidence I could problem solve with the awesome message board community, c) the manuals were well-written.
Quick verdict: 10 out of 10 stars. One of the best guitar purchases I've ever made. Excellent value.
Longer verdict:
---Pros:
i) Amazing sound quality.
ii) After a short learning curve, I just got the system and am fully confident in it.
iii) Built like a tank.
iv) Excellent overall value.
v) Amazing presets.
vi) Awesome message board community.
vii) Awesome updates.
---Cons:
i) I've had a hard time mating it with the right power amp. Headphones and recording are great, but I'm still working on using the effects loop of a tube amp. I'll probably just get a SS power amp one day, but until then, that part of the equation isn't perfect.
*****
Conclusion: I've played (and owned) some fantastic amps and the FM3 sounds just as good. I'm blown away. I've compared the pedals to the real ones and... they sound the same. I'll probably have a Fractal unit as long as I'm playing guitar.
And, if anyone is listening:
i) Please don't add a touchscreen to future products!
ii) Please don't make future products Wi-Fi only (or Wi-Fi at all)!
Thanks Fractal!