Posted by Jason on 5/30/2008, 12:33 pm

Hey Norm...wanted to follow-up on the Axe-FX thing. I discussed it this week with a friend who had one. He said he sold it because it didn't hang with his tube amps, though he did think it represented a big leap for modelers. In fact, he said he'd be happy to look at them again down the road as their technology progresses, but at the moment, the tube amps are where it's at for him. He mentioned that he intentionally stayed away from his amps for awhile upon receiving the Axe-FX so that he could explore the device extensively without any interference. However, he told me that the minute he plugged back into one of his tube amps, it was over. So...his unit was the one that I had intended to check out; but this is not a possibility now that it's gone. Thought I'd give you the update. I do want to emphasize a couple of things: 1. He did have some good things to say about the unit and in no way was dismissing the product on the whole. He just felt that he could get more of what he was looking for from his other rigs. 2. I am not categorically opposed to modelers because I think the good ones can offer some utility. I have yet to encounter an Axe-FX in person, so I'm not qualified to make any judgments on them. The premise of them seems sensible and versatile. I am aware of players who are absolutely in love with the Axe-FX, and there are some good clips floating around on the web. It's all about application for me, and while I do not envision parting with my amps or finding a modeler that would be superior in terms of tone and feel to those, I am always open to exploring current technology. I'm glad that engineers are still pushing forward in this arena and continuing to refine what these products do. Again, there are still a lot of folks out there who are doing some really good things with the Axe-FX, so by no means would I discourage you from any interest you have in one. YMMV as always! Take care, JB