Many guitarists who are deep into digital amp modeling eventually ask themselves: is dedicated hardware like an Axe-Fx really a step up in tone compared to software like Guitar Rig? It’s a valid question, especially when you can’t just walk into a store and A/B these beasts side-by-side.
One guitarist recently posed this very question, wondering if upgrading to an Axe-Fx III from Guitar Rig 5 or 6 would result in a “noticeably better tone.” Having spent years with Guitar Rig and then moving to Fractal Audio’s ecosystem, I can offer some insights based on my experience.
For context, like many, I order my gear online without the luxury of in-store trials. My journey started with software, and Guitar Rig 5 was a staple for a long time. With tweaking and impulse responses (IRs), I could coax some good sounds out of it. However, the moment I plugged into an AX8 (an earlier Fractal unit), it was a night and day difference. The amp modeling in the Axe-Fx, and subsequently the Axe-Fx III, feels significantly more organic and responsive. The “axe,” in this digital realm, truly comes alive.
While I haven’t extensively explored Guitar Rig 6, the fundamental advantage of the Axe-Fx series remains. It’s not just about incremental improvements; it’s a different approach to modeling. Helix Native, another software option, is also excellent, perhaps even edging out Guitar Rig in some areas, particularly for cleaner tones and bass. Both software options can be finicky when it comes to input levels, requiring careful adjustments to perform optimally.
This is where a dedicated hardware processor like the Axe-Fx III or FM3 shines. Latency, that slight delay between your playing and the processed sound, is minimized to just a few milliseconds. This responsiveness makes a huge difference in feel and playability.
Perhaps the most significant benefit I discovered with the Axe-Fx is the reduced time spent tweaking. With software, I often found myself lost in endless parameter adjustments. With the Axe-Fx, most amp models sound fantastic right away, often needing only minor bass or treble adjustments. This translates to more time actually playing and less time fiddling with knobs. This ease of dialing in great tone is a major win for any guitarist looking to maximize their playing time.
One workflow consideration, especially for recording musicians, is the “dry recording” approach – capturing a clean guitar signal and then re-amping later. If you frequently change amp models post-recording within your DAW, the Axe-Fx might alter your typical workflow. Personally, I prefer to use the Axe-Fx as my audio interface. I dial in a tone I love directly on the unit and record that processed audio into my Mac. Post-processing in the DAW is then minimal, perhaps just adding some delay or subtle effects.
While I wouldn’t consider myself a professional, I am definitely a “tone snob” when it comes to my personal practice and smaller gigs. For my needs, the Axe-Fx delivers consistently superior results. It’s worth noting that my experience is primarily with classic rock, blues, and moderate gain tones. I have less experience with modern high-gain and metal genres, so my perspective might be less informed in those specific areas.
Ultimately, if you are seeking a noticeable upgrade in tone and a more streamlined experience compared to software amp modelers, exploring an “Axe Guitar” solution like the Fractal Axe-Fx III is definitely worth considering. It prioritizes inspiring sound and ease of use, letting you focus on what truly matters: playing guitar.
