I started using a Fractal FM9 a little more than a year ago. I got one just in time for a fly-gig on the other coast. Having had an AXE FX 2XL+ prior, I found it quite easy to get the FM9 programmed enough for the gig. It was a wonderful experience. The unit fit in an overhead bin on the flight, and it performed flawlessly and sounded amazing. I'd say the best I ever sounded live. The AXE3/FM9 platform sounds MUCH better than the AXE2. With the 2, I felt like it wasn't quite there, but was good enough for club gigs. The FM9 sounds INCREDIBLE, and I record with it. The computer application is super easy to use, so programming is a snap. The FM9 takes very little space on stage, perfect for small stages. Up to 3 expression pedals can be added, so it's pretty flexible.
The first gig was a bit of an exercise in HOW to set up the scenes. I set it up in a way that made sense to me at the time, but it didn't play out as well as I'd hoped. In a year of gigging since, I've really hit on a scenes layout that does the job. I couldn't be happier with it. I've also paired the unit with a couple Electrovoice PXM-12MP edges that are small, light, and sound terrific. I run the FM9 direct to FOH, and use the monitors strictly as monitors, with vocals and bass mixed in. For bigger venues with solid stage monitors, I just use what's there. Next step will be IEMs, which I just tried out and loved. Overall this is a rig that can be moved in one shot and fits in the trunk of a Mustang.
Five stars, highly recommended.
I did a similar fly gig a year later, and it went SO WELL.
Happy 2024!
