Fractal users were in for a surprise when when the new FM3 Amp Modeler/Muti-FX was announced. FM3 is based on Fractal Audio AX FX III. It is powered by a 3-core Griffin DSP with one ARM and two SHARC+ cores and also features the ARES Amp Modeling the latest award winning amp modeling technology developed by Fractal Audio.

Even more surprising was that all AX8 customers on Fractal Audio waitlist were automatically transferred to FM3 waitlist.This clearly signals that AX8 is no more to be manufactured. It will be discontinued.

This is what the Fractal wait list policy states:

  • If you're currently on the wait list for an AX8, we will automatically transfer your request to the FM3 in the order in which it was received.
  • If you want to join the waitlist for the FM3, send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “FM3 Wait List” to reserve your unit in the USA or Canada.
  • For waitlist requests in other countries, please contact your local Fractal Audio Systems dealer with the understanding that we have not yet provided our dealers with any dates.

A large number of AX8 users are not happy with the compact three switch only option that FM3 carries. Users were expecting the same number of foot switches with better DSP power and features form AXE III. However, the compact size, large color display, features and tones from AXE III should satisfy a large number of users. If needed a FC-6 or a FC-12 Foot Controller can be added to extend switches.

Details on when the product will be available is not yet known.