Fractal Audio proves that good things come in small packages with THE GIFT OF TONE holiday giveaway series.
We’ll be posting free downloads from Fractal Audio, community notables, and members of our roster of celebrity artist endorsers.

2023 Final: NEAL SCHON

Gift of Tone Neal Schon

By far this year’s most requested Gift of Tone, today’s release is from Neal Schon of Journey. The man is an institution and literally needs no introduction.

🎁 Neal’s Gift of Tone is a preset from his live rig containing four scenes from clean to lead. You might look at it and say, “Wow, that’s so simple. Is this really his preset?” Yes, this preset is what he plays through, but to truly get Neal’s fantastic tone you’ll need to learn to play like him. (We wish you the best in this endeavor!) 

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 23.05 or newer. FM9 firmware 5.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 7.0 or newer. (To import a preset, use Import Preset in the top level Preset menu of your product’s editor.)

NOTE: This preset requires two expression pedals: one for wah through “External 1”, and the other for Delay and Reverb levels through “External 2”.
Our EV pedals are now available with no waitlist.

2023 #5: JUSTIN DERRICO

Justin Derrico Gift of Tone

In the electrifying world of live performance, the spotlight shines brightest on center stage, but there’s an unparalleled talent out there every night with P!NK that shines brighter than any pyrotechnic. Justin Derrico is the exceptional guitarist who powers P!NK’s sensational shows from stage right. His guitar mastery is more like guitar MONSTER-Y. You can also catch him and his Fractal Audio gear on NBC’s The Voice, where he is the guitarist in the house band—one of the most recorded in history, where he learns and performs 75+ songs every week.

🎁 Justin’s Gift of Tone is a Preset-Cab Bundle containing the scenes used in his live rig heard across the world’s biggest stages. It features a clean, a rhythm, and two leads — one based on his coveted JMP tone! There’s a whammy and a wah, and multiple effects (fewer FX on FM9 and FM3 versions).

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 23.05 or newer. FM9 firmware 5.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 7.0 or newer. (To import a preset, use Import Preset in the top level Preset menu of your product’s editor.

2023 #4: CHRIS BASEFORD

Chris Baseford

Chris Baseford is a Canadian record producer, engineer, and mixer. He has worked with some of the most renowned talents in the industry including Nickelback, Shinedown, Daughtry, Rob Zombie, Tommy Lee/Mötley Crüe, Avril Lavigne, and many globally-recognized producers and songwriters. With an obsession for creating great sounding records across a wide array of genres including rock, metal, pop and country, Chris’ passion for making music continues to evolve as he strives for every next project to be his best work yet.

🎁 Chris’s Gift of Tone is a Preset with EIGHT SCENES of great tone using four amp models each with its own dialed-in DynaCab from the onboard selections. Chris is loaded up for the Axe-Fx III Turbo, so look for lighter versions included for FM9 Turbo, FM9 Original, FM3 Turbo, and FM3 Original.

FROM CHRIS

  • Since I’m a self professed studio rat, I use these sounds exclusively for recording. My philosophy with my presets is to have a block for anything I might want, even if it’s not on, it’s there with a good starting point on each channel, ready to go. I like to build presets based on an overall sound, with the scenes used for different options. For instance, I have various presets for clean, dirty, heavy and special effects. Within those presets I’ll have a different sonic option on each scene so I can quickly audition different sounds depending on what part I’m recording. These are all starting points and once I find something I like, I’ll save to a new preset number and start tweaking for the record I’m working on. This preset combines a few of those scenes into one preset:AC-20 – Clean, AC-20 – Breakup, Tucana – Clean’ish,Tucana – Drive
    JVM – Rhythm, JVM – Drive, Revv Gen – Heavy, Rev Gen – Lead
    This gives a variety of sounds to use when producing a rock type track. Obviously guitars/pickups can have a major effect on these sounds, which is why I’ve built in EQ’s in front of the amp block and after the cab block. Don’t be afraid to tweak it here to make it work for your setup.
    PS: although I still use traditional IRs quite a bit, I’m loving the ease of use of the new DynaCabs, so I’ve included those here. Again, don’t be afraid to grab those controls and quickly shape the sound to your liking.

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 23.05 or newer. FM9 firmware 5.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 7.0 or newer. (Notice that there are different versions for Axe-Fx III, FM9 Turbo, FM9 original, FM3 Turbo, and FM3 original.) To import a preset, use Import Preset in the top level Preset menu of your product’s editor.

MORE FROM CHRIS:
https://www.chrisbaseford.com
https://www.youtube.com/c/chrisbaseford

 

2023 #2: GREG WELLS

Greg Wells Gift of Tone

Greg Wells is a Grammy-winning record producer, songwriter, musician, and mix engineer raised in Canada and based in Los Angeles, with songs on over 130 million albums sold and streaming numbers in the billions. His diverse credits include John Legend (2021 Grammys Best R&B Album), Adele, and Deftones; producing and mixing “The Greatest Showman” film and soundtrack album; Taylor Swift, Theophilus London, P!nk, Kid Cudi, Twenty-One Pilots, Carrie Underwood, Rufus Wainwright, OneRepublic, Timbaland, Otep, Celine Dion, Aerosmith, Weezer, Katy Perry, Keith Urban, Dua Lipa, Pharrell Williams, Ariana Grande, and Mika. He lives in a daily pursuit of the best tone for the song being recorded.

Our mutual friend Dweezil Zappa introduced Greg to Fractal Audio, and Greg has fully embraced the quality and diversity of these sounds into his record production.

“I’ve tried every amp emulator made for the past 20 plus years and this is the only one that sounds like the real thing. I can’t believe it exists!”

🎁 Greg’s Gift of Tone is a preset featuring “Happy” and “Rawk” amp tones in a variety of settings, and also includes two custom user cab IRs. These are included separately but are also included in preset bundles for the Axe-Fx III, FM9, and FM3.

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 23 or newer. FM9 firmware 5.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 7.0 or newer.
To import a preset, use Import Preset in the top level Preset menu of your product’s editor.

MORE FROM GREG:

https://gregwells.net

https://www.instagram.com/sirgregwells/

2023 #3: WES HAUCH

GIFT OF TONE - Wes Hauch

We’re happy to welcome back to the Fractal Audio family of artists… Wes Hauch!

Wes Hauch is an American guitarist and songwriter. He is an extraordinary talent in the realm of metal music, known for both technical proficiency and artistic creativity. As a member of bands like The Faceless, Glass Casket, and now Alluvial, Hauch has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre, blending technical metal with progressive elements to create a sound that is both ferociously intense and detailed.

🎁 Wes’s Gift of Tone is a Preset-Cab Bundle containing the Rhythm/Lead/Clean/Mid Gain sounds that he uses live with Alluvial. The bundle uses a Cab IR based on his preferred “USA” 4×12 and mic (also included separately). The preset was dialed in on an Ibanez RG 7 string in B standard tuning. For best results, use a guitar with humbuckers tuned to standard pitch.

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 23.05 or newer. FM9 firmware 5.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 7.0 or newer.
To import a preset, use Import Preset in the top level Preset menu of your product’s editor.

MORE FROM WES:

https://www.alluvialofficial.com/
https://www.weshauch.com/discography
https://www.instagram.com/weshauch/

2023 #1: AARON MARSHALL

Aaron Marshall, acclaimed for his innovative guitar techniques and seemingly boundless creativity, is an influential figure in contemporary guitar — and a celebrated endorser of Fractal Audio Systems. Known for his work with INTERVALS, Aaron has captivated audiences worldwide with his seamless fusion of intricate melodies, progressive rhythms, and atmospheric tones. His use of Fractal Audio gear has been integral in shaping his distinctive sound, which has inspired a new generation of guitarists.

Of special interest to fans will be: A brand new Intervals record in early 2024, plenty of touring around the globe, and a new USA line of signature guitars + pickups from Aaron in collaboration with the Schecter USA Custom Shop.

🎁 Aaron’s Gift of Tone is an iconic 8-scene preset from his Axe-Fx III rig that has also been adapted to work on the FM9 and FM3. It contains a tightly gated heavy rhythm, a classic chorused lead, an atomospheric clean, and much more!

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 23 or newer. FM9 firmware 5.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 7.0 or newer.
To import a preset, use Import Preset in the top level Preset menu of your product’s editor.

MORE FROM AARON MARSHALL

https://www.instagram.com/aaronintervals

 

2022 Final Gift: DWEEZIL ZAPPA

The final installment in our 2022 Gift of Tone series comes from Dweezil Zappa. Dweezil’s inspiring contributions to the Fractal Audio community are too many to count. From touring, to studio work, to “Axe-Fest”, “Dweezilla” and beyond, he has made incredible use of every Fractal Audio product since the beginning. He’s created free IRs, factory presets, master classes, and more.

If the scope of that hasn’t already made you think big, Dweezil’s gift channels the monumental spirit of one of the boldest and most influential rock guitar players of all time: Eddie Van Halen. The “Eruption” solo is fire in a bottle. Who could dare to create a Gift of Tone based on such sublime stuff? We can’t imagine anyone better than Dweezil. After all, he took guitar lessons from Eddie himself, but that’s just the beginning. If you’ve listened to his podcast, “Runnin’ with the Dweezil” you know that his admiration for and fascination with all things EVH is beyond what most others could achieve in a lifetime. What makes this preset extra special is that it is NOT the traditional Eruption sound you know — the core amp and cab tone is based on Dweezil’s arcane insider access to what the tone on that recording sounded like before it was mixed and mastered.

With great appreciation for Dweezil Zappa and this gift — and for all of you — we close this series with a sincere THANK YOU, and our best wishes that you have had and continue to have a wonderful 2022 holiday season.

🎁 Dweezil’s gift is a Preset+Cab Bundle designed for Axe-Fx III. FM9 and FM3 adaptations are also included, but these required some compromises. Custom IRs are used to create the raw amp tone, but also f0r reverb/color effects.

Scene 2 of the Axe-Fx III version allows you to use an expression pedal (EXT 1) to create the famous spaceship landing Eruption ending.  Start with the pedal in heel down position (0%). Play the last note, then capture it by moving the pedal forward (50-80%). Turn down your guitar volume while it ramps down, then move the pedal to 100% (toe down) when you want the last note to fade away completely.

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer. FM9 firmware 4.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 6.0 or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old, presets will appear blank when you load them. To import a Preset+Cab Bundle, use Import Preset in the top level Preset menu of your product’s editor.

#25: LARRY MITCHELL

Grammy winner, producer, recording guitarist, and touring musician LARRY MITCHELL has been a Fractal Audio endorsing artist for 14+ years. He takes us straight to the source with this gift of tone, sharing his own personal “Sideman” preset that he uses when he performs at singer/songwriter events. If you’ve experienced one of Larry’s performances, you’ll recognize the sonic style, which is classic yet still distinctively his own. Of course, this isn’t Mr. Mitchell’s first generous gift to our community: he’s created factory presets, shared tones online, participates in our forum, gives informative talks in his “Tuesday Night Live” series, and has entertained and instructed many of us at events like Vai Academy, Axe-Fest, and more. His music inspire us to play, and we think you’ll really enjoy this gift from our good friend.

🎁 Larry’s gift is a Preset+Cab Bundle containing eight scenes, taken from his FM3 live rig. (Axe-Fx III and FM9 files also included.) In addition, you’ll also find a 2+ minute backing track to jam along with! BONUS: Larry’s gift also includes a custom speaker cab IR from JUSTIN YORK (see Gift of Tone #12 for more from Justin).

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer. FM9 firmware 4.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 6.0 or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old, presets will appear blank when you load them. To import a Preset+Cab Bundle, use Import Preset in the top level Preset menu of your product’s editor.

#24: TIM PIERCE

You know the face of Tim Pierce from his incredibly successful YouTube channel, but you know his SOUND the from many many sessions he’s played on over the decades, including Joe Cocker, Crowded House,  Goo Goo Dolls, Michael Jackson, Beth Hart, Roger Waters, Alice Cooper, Johnny Hallyday, Phil Collins, Rick Springfield, and many more. (We’re huge fans of his work with Kevin Gilbert and Toy Matinee.) The Tim Pierce Masterclass is fantastic (link below), containing over 150 hours of material of the caliber and perspective that only a true pro like Tim can offer. It’s an honor to be able to include him here, both as a Gift of Tone contributor and a friend.

🎁 Tim’s gift is a preset containing seven scenes of customized favorite tones from his FM9. The files are also compatible with Axe-Fx III and FM3.

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer. FM9 firmware 4.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 6.0 or newer.

#23: ALEX LIFESON

Well, we were going to fill this entire space with “Blah blah, blah blah blah blah-blah,” but there’s much more to say! Here at Fractal Audio, Alex Lifeson shaped so many of us in so many ways. Uniquely excellent recorded and live guitar amp tones. An incredible talent for the creative use of effects. Songwriting that carried us along. A sense of fun that you can see in everything from liner notes to antics onstage and off. That’s Alex, and it’s like canon to those of us who grew up listening to Rush in the era of true guitar heroes. It’s about more than music too; it’s a culture that creates a bond between us and a great many of our customers and endorsers too, and since 2012 as we’ve worked with Alex, his tech Scott Appleton, the people at Anthem, Mojotone, and beyond, we’ve made a lot more great new friends. We’re as thankful for all of them as we are for today’s wonderful Gift of Tone. 

🎁 Alex Lifeson’s Gift of Tone is a collection of effect blocks saved from his Axe-Fx live rig and new FM9. No matter how you use your Fractal Audio product—direct, with an amp, or in some other way—you can drag-and-drop these into your favorite preset of any kind to access these signature effect settings. A video below covers how to use block files. You can hear these sounds in action on Rush | R40 DVD, or in the demonstration video below from Fractal Audio forum member Leon “@2112” Todd.)

REQUIREMENTS
Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer. FM9 firmware 4.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 6.0 or newer.

#22: JOHN PETRUCCI

John Petrucci was one of Fractal Audio’s earliest fans and over the years has used almost every unit in the lineup to bring his signature blend of mind-blowing shred, crystal cleans, and giant rhythm tones to the adoring masses with Dream Theater, Liquid Tension Experiment, and most recently, his own solo tour.

Of special interest to fans will be the recently announced John Petrucci’s Guitar Universe, a 4-day guitar “camp” extravaganza. We’ve attended several of these shows with him and it’s always an amazing time full of learning, shredding, and fun. (Registration link below.)

🎁 John’s Gift of Tone is a collection of effect blocks saved from his Axe-Fx III live rig. No matter how you use your Fractal Audio product—direct, with an amp, or in some other way—you can drag-and-drop these into your favorite preset of any kind to achieve some of John’s signature effect settings. A video below under Gift of Tone #16 covers how to use block library.

Bonus: For almost ten years, the Axe-Fx III, FM9, and FM3 have included a factory preset called “Petrucci Rig” which now features our amp model based on a JPIIC+. Now, Cooper Carter — a mutual friend of John Petrucci and Fractal Audio — has added John’s Gift of Tone blocks into those presets for you so you can use the new versions to enjoy a more authentic JP experience. These are available here. Cooper also made a short video below.

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer. FM9 firmware 4.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 6.0 or newer.

JOHN PETRUCCI’S GUITAR UNIVERSE 2023

https://johnpetruccisguitaruniverse.com/

 

#21: GUTHRIE GOVAN

When a jolly bearded chap comes around bearing gifts at this time of year, it can only be… wait, you say he’s also MAGICAL? Forget the other fellow, you must be talking about Guthrie Govan!

🎁 Guthrie’s Gift of Tone is a preset created for his FM9 live rig used on his recent tour with The Aristocrats. It includes four scenes. (The FM3 version has 3 scenes plus a separate preset for “Clean”). Guthrie’s use of scene-controlled mixer block channels alongside  expression pedal crossfades will be a special joy for those of you who enjoy taking apart clever presets. It also includes a fun “Golden Ringmod” on the Synth scene, where the early range of the expression pedal controls “Mix” and the latter controls “Frequency”.

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer. FM9 firmware 4.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 6.0 or newer.

MORE FROM GUTHRIE

https://the-aristocrats-band.com/
Look for new 2023 tour dates!

https://www.instagram.com/guthrie.govan/

 

#20: TOSIN ABASI & JAVIER REYES of ANIMALS AS LEADERS

In some parts of the world, an old story holds that the animals can magically speak around this festive time of year. Whether or not you believe it, we’re certain you’ll agree that that the band Animals As Leaders is definitely speaking loud and clear to a legion of fans. (Fractal Audio among them!) We’re also honored that Tosin Abasi and Javier Reyes have endorsed our products for many years.

🎁 GIFT OF TOSIN is a preset containing three scenes from Tosin Abasi’s live rig from the 2022 Animals as Leaders tour.

🎁 JAVIER TETHYS STRAT is a preset containing eight scenes from Javier Reyes’s live rig from the 2022 Animals as Leaders tour.

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer. FM9 firmware 4.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 6.0 or newer.

MORE FROM TOSIN & JAVIER

In addition to being the virtuoso guitarist of a generation, Tosin is also an entreprenuer and designer, and offers a number of spectacular guitars both in partnership with other brands and via his own company Abasi Concepts. The video at left shows the launch of his new signature Kaizen guitar from EBMM. Below you’ll find a direct link to the instrument, plus the web page of Abasi Concepts, plus social links for the social media pages of AAL, Tosin and Javier.

https://www.music-man.com/instruments/guitars/kaizen

https://abasiconcepts.com/

https://animalsasleaders.org/

https://www.instagram.com/tosinabasi/

https://www.instagram.com/jjavierreyess

#19: TOM HAMILTON & BRAD WHITFORD of AEROSMITH

Aerosmith is one of the greatest rock bands of all time, making this one of the greatest “Gift of Tone” releases of all time!!! Bassist Tom Hamilton and Guitarist Brad Whitford have shared presets from their live rigs. Enjoy!

🎁 Tom Hamilton’s gift is a Preset+Cab bundle. It contains eight scenes with a twist: the first four scenes showcase the core bass amp tone with different effects, and the second four scenes are reproductions of the first four but with the amp tone on the left channel and a custom “Live Bass DI” tone on the right channel. This allows the amp and DI to be sent separately to front of house, where they are remixed to mono with independent EQ and level control. Included with Tom’s preset is a special speaker cab IR, the “Secret Weapon 2 Bass Mix” from AustinBuddy, who provided Tom’s tech with the preset and IR that began their journey into Fractal Audio. Thanks to all!

🎁 Brad Whitford’s gift contains a preset featuring a selection of amp and effect tones from his live FM9 rig. In that rig, the “main” amp changes between songs sections, while a “Ruby” amp tone is run simultaneously using a second amp block, cab block, and output. (The Ruby settings are included here as Scene 6 instead.)

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer. FM9 firmware 4.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 6.0 or newer.

#18: JASON RICHARDSON

Jason Richardson is famous because, well, he’s Jason Richardson. He can do things with his signature model EBMM guitars that will just make you shake your head. But in Fractal Audio world, he’s also famous for his one-word review/endorsement of the Axe-Fx. Well, now it’s time to repay the favor concerning today’s gift of tone: “Siiiicckkk!”

🎁 Jason’s Gift is a multi-scene preset from his Axe-Fx III live rig. Get your ho-ho-ho on with “Hos Down”.

NOTE: This preset uses features of the Axe-Fx III that are not available on FM9 or FM3, so compromises were required when translating it. The FM3 version has also been split into 5 presets corresponding to the 5 scenes of the original.

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer. FM9 firmware 4.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 6.0 or newer.

#17: FRANK STEFFEN MUELLER

Frank Steffen Mueller has truly become a standout member of the Fractal Audio community. His growing popularity is due in equal measures to his exceptional playing and his uplifting personality. He lives and works as a guitar teacher, session musician, composer, producer and videographer in Stuttgart, Germany, but his projects have included work with artists all over the world. We are most appreciative of the presets, videos, and more that he creates on his own and with G66, Fractal Audio’s sales partner in Europe and the UK.

🎁 Frank’s Gift of Tone is a fun new preset containing eight scenes. It’s a “kitchen sink” style or “all-in-one” creation based on his “FSM Favorite Preset”. He has also included an informative PDF covering the details. We hope you enjoy “FSM Gift Of Tone“!

REQUIREMENTS: Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer. FM9 firmware 4.0 or newer. FM3 firmware 6.0 or newer.

#16: STEVE VAI

When most of us were young, there was no information superhighway; we had to blaze our own trails through a jungle, and we’d be lucky to be equipped with so much as a butter knife. I remember someone telling me, “If you want to know something, you’ve gotta steal it with your ears!” Imagine so many of us then, sitting with our guitars, trying to use our ears to break into what was the sonic equivalent of the Fort Knox gold through a cassette tape or “flexi-disc” of STEVE VAI. That was certainly me, with a metronome and a calculator, trying to count delay times, or using a 4-track to work out what I now know were Harmonizer settings.

Those days are gone; now, we can combine a new world of information and technology with the incredible graciousness and generosity of a master like Steve to find ourselves inspired not by makeshift copies but the real deal.

Which leads us to today’s gift. Steve Vai himself embodies the holiday spirit all year long. Seeing one of his shows is a living breathing master class. His YouTube Channel is loaded with personable talks and music that will rock your world, expand your mind, and fill your heart. Steve also conducts the fantastic “Vai Academy“ camps, where attendees can learn from, interact with, and be inspired by their musical heroes. There are books too. I highly recommend the latest, “Vaideology” which is equal parts knowledge and wisdom. We at Fractal Audio are very grateful for Steve and all of his contributions to our world of music, gear, and more.

🎁 Steve Vai’s Gift of Tone is a collection of effect blocks saved from his Axe-Fx III live rig. No matter how you use your Fractal Audio product—direct, with an amp, or in some other way—you can drag-and-drop these into your favorite preset of any kind to achieve some of Steve Vai’s signature settings, and even adjust them further to inspire greatness of your own in ways that yesterday’s kids with those flexi-discs could hardly imagine. The video below covers more on using blocks.

NOTE: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer, or FM3 firmware 6 or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old, the blocks may not work as expected.

Block Library Videos

MORE FROM STEVE VAI

https://vai.com/

The book mentioned above is available directly from:
https://www.vai.com/vaideology/

#16.5: STEVE VAI TOURING BAND MEMBERS
PHILLIP BYNOE & DANTE FRISIELLO

The story of “Good King Wenceslas” tells us the tale of a king, who from the warmth of his royal hall—aptly on The Feast of Stephen (=STEVE!) — sees a peasant collecting sticks in the moonlit snow, and decides to offer an incredible gift of food, drink, and logs for the fire. When the monarch and his page set out to find the man, the page cannot face the cold, but the magical inspiration of the saintly and generous king allows them both to brave the windy winter night to continue, the page walking in the monarch’s footprints. Lo and behold— two members of Steve Vai’s touring band have followed in HIS footprints to bring us (hungry peasants?) their own generous Gifts of Tone!!!

🎁 PHILLIP BYNOE is the bass player for Steve Vai’s touring band and studio recordings. His gift is “8 MIGHTY BASS TONES“, a preset for the Axe-Fx III, FM9, and FM3. It contains eight scenes of low-down goodness. The amp and cab were originally part of the AustinBudddy 200+ Bass TonePack, but Phillip has made them his own, added effects, and dialed everything in to perfection. (On the day he sent it, he used it for tracking bass on a new song!) NOTE: Phillip notes that he does not like to boost the low end too much on his presets, “I like to record it as just it is and then do any EQ in post.” We are confident you bass players will enjoy this one!

🎁 DANTE FRISIELLO is a newly-added guitarist in Steve Vai’s touring band. The preset “Dante’s Gift of Tone” for Axe-Fx III, FM9, and FM3 contains eight scenes which he created to provide “everything I need to jam with Steve Vai!” This preset uses EXTERNAL 1 to control a wah.

Note: Dante has also included his personal self-contained custom footswitch layout for gigging with the FM3, plus a video (at left) explaining how he uses this. We all look forward to seeing him onstage with Steve Vai on coming tour dates.

NOTE: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer, or FM3 firmware 6 or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old, the blocks may not work as expected.

MORE FROM PHILLIP & DANTE

Watch Vai.com for tour dates and more.

#15: PHIL COLLEN

Phil Collen from Def Leppard has been a part of some of the best sounding rock guitar tones ever, so when he says that the Axe-Fx III has given him the best live sound he’s ever had, we’ll take that a gift in itself. But he is also thrilled to be sharing a preset with us here, which we hope you enjoy as much as we will!

🎁 Phil’s gift is a Preset taken directly from his Axe-Fx III live rig (and translated for FM9 and FM3). The preset has three scenes.

IMPORTANT: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer, or FM3 firmware 6 or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old, presets will appear blank when you load them.

Note: Because FM9 and FM3 don’t have the required three Cab IR slots, a pair of blended User Cab IRs is also included, and the files for those products are Preset+Cab Bundles. You may want to add just a little high cut in the Cab Block as these were captured wide open instead of dialed back a little. The IRs are also included separately.

MORE FROM PHIL COLLEN

https://www.defleppard.com/

The box set that Phil holds up in the video is
available in the USA at Amazon.

#14: DEVIN TOWNSEND

Devin Townsend is a Canadian musician, songwriter and record producer. His studio and live guitar tones have been rooted in Fractal Audio since the days of the original Axe-Fx. His discography spans multiple decades and many genres, but we think it’s safe to say that a solid metal guitar tone like the one below is definitely close to his core.

🎁 Devin’s gift is a Preset+Cab Bundle taken directly from his Axe-Fx III live rig (and translated for FM9 and FM3). He says, “I’ve been asked since my Empath tour to share the Cab IR that I captured at that time. If you’ve heard me play live since then, this is that tone. It’s a heavy rhythm sound.” The preset has one scene. It also contains a “Golden Wah” setting that crossfades instead of using auto-engage, so there are no sudden transitions (use EXTERNAL 1 or change all three modifier sources).

IMPORTANT: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer, or FM3 firmware 6 or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old, presets will appear blank when you load them. To import a Preset+Cab bundle, use Import Preset in the top level Preset menu of your product’s editor to launch a “wizard”.

MORE FROM DEVIN TOWNSEND

https://hevydevy.com

#13: SYNYSTER GATES

Brian Haner, better known by his stage name Synyster Gates or simply Syn, is best known for being the lead guitarist and backing vocalist of Avenged Sevenfold. He is a true master of great guitar tones, and we are very pleased to include him in this series.

🎁 Syn’s gift is an IR from one of the Fractal Audio cab packs he offers in his online store. We were excited to remember how great these IRs sound. It is included on its own in .Syx format, and also in a preset+cab bundle based on one of Syn’s own Axe-Fx III live presets.

IMPORTANT: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer, or FM3 firmware 6 or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old, presets will appear blank when you load them. To import a Preset+Cab bundle, use Import Preset in the top level Preset menu of your product’s editor to launch a “wizard”. The IR can also be used on Axe-Fx II and AX8.

MORE FROM SYNYSTER GATES

Visit https://store.synner.com/ for Fractal Audio content
and more from Synyster Gates.

#12: JUSTIN YORK

Justin York has 20 years of experience in the music industry as a studio and stage guitarist for multiple Grammy Award-winning and Platinum-selling artists. He also writes, composes, and produces music for TV and film.  He founded York Audio in 2017 to create tools to bring inspiration to musicians living in the digital age. Justin is an active and valued contributor to the Fractal Audio forum and beta team.

🎁 Justin’s gift is a Preset+Cab bundle containing four different scenes showcasing four amps through the same custom cab IR, created exclusively for today’s Gift of Tone. The Cab IR is also included separately in both .syx and .IR formats. An included PDF covers the details.

IMPORTANT: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer, or FM3 firmware 6 or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old, presets will appear blank when you load them. To import a Preset+Cab bundle, use Import Preset in the top level Preset menu of your product’s editor. The IR can also be used on Axe-Fx II and AX8.

MORE FROM JUSTIN YORK

Visit https://www.yorkaudio.co for more from Justin York and York Audio.

#11: FREMEN

FREMEN (aka Thibault de Robillard) has been generously giving the Gift of Tone to the Fractal Audio community for many years. His creations include forum downloads, factory presets, and more, and he is also extremely helpful with advice and tips. Fremen also runs a web shop with presets designed for live performance and recording, including an excellent set of Pink Floyd tribute tones.

🎁 Fremen’s gift is not one but three FUN presets — each fully loaded with eight scenes — designed for the Axe-Fx III, FM9 and FM3.

IMPORTANT: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer, or FM3 firmware 6 or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old, presets will appear blank when you load them.

MORE FROM FREMEN

Visit http://fremenpresets.com

#10: COOPER CARTER

Cooper Carter is a guitarist and consultant who works with some of the top artists using Fractal Audio products, including Taylor Swift, Maroon 5, Journey, Dream Theater and many more. His popular Master Class series has helped pros and amateurs alike to learn the tricks of the trade and harness the full power of their Fractal Audio products.

🎁 Cooper’s gift is one of the most popular presets from his Master Class series, a lush “sound on sound” creation that allows you to create an ambient texture and then solo over the top.

IMPORTANT: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer, or FM3 firmware 6 or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old, presets will appear blank when you load them.

MORE FROM COOPER CARTER

Visit https://www.coopercarter.com to contact Cooper, find his courses, and more.

#9: AUSTINBUDDY

AustinBuddy produces a popular line of “TonePacks” containing presets and IRs exclusively for Fractal Audio products. They feature multiple takes on every amp model, ready to play with both studio and live versions for both guitar and bass. We often encounter his work in the rigs of pro players using our products.

🎁 AustinBuddy’s went all-in with SIX presets, including a preset+cab bundle with a special “Jimi” Greenbacks IR, his personal “VH” preset, and more.

IMPORTANT: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer, or FM3 firmware 6 or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old, presets will appear blank when you load them. Details are in the included PDF.

Note: The “LotsaLiking” Zeppelin preset includes a separate version for Axe-Fx III. Other files use a shared format that works for all products. 

MORE FROM AUSTINBUDDY

Web site: https://austinbuddy.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@austinbuddy13

#8: MARK “MOKE” PERRY

Mark “Moke” Perry made the jump from Fractal Audio customer to “content creator” and launched Moke’s Custom Presets. He not only offers excellent general-use tones, but special presets for classic cover songs. He is also very generous on the Fractal Audio forum with cool solutions for unusual challenges. Today’s gift is a perfect example of his creativity and skill.

🎁 Moke’s gift is a preset that “moves” an effect block between two different positions in the signal chain. A single Pitch block is used either for Whammy (“pre”), and either Detune or Harmony (“post”). He calls it “Moke’s Magical Moving Pitch Block”. An included PDF “lesson” breaks down his approach, so you can experiment with your own variations.

IMPORTANT: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer, or FM3 firmware 6 or newer (beta 4). If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old, presets will appear blank when you load them. An expression pedal is required for Whammy. Details are in the included PDF.

MORE FROM MOKE

Find more from Moke at https://www.custompresets.com/

#7: ANDY WOOD

Andy Wood is a big favorite here at Fractal Audio. At first, you might think it’s because he is one of the best @$&* guitar players you’ve ever heard, but the fact is he’s also a good friend and a great guy. His bio covers his many achievements, but only if you listen to his music can you truly understand that what we’re talking about here is charisma.

Andy’s Gift today is his Rascal Lead FM3 preset that can be loaded into the FM9 or Axe-Fx III. You’ll also find some bonus Paisley Tele presets for all platforms.

Versions: Andy’s FM3 presets require firmware 3.02 or newer. Axe-Fx III presets require firmware 11 or newer. FM9 requires firmware 4 or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old for these files, they will appear blank when you load them.

Later this month we’re going to teaming up with Andy to give away an FM3! Watch for details at: https://www.andywoodmusic.com/fm3-giveaway/

MORE FROM ANDY
Visit https://www.andywoodmusic.com where you’ll find music and more.

#6: MIKKO LOGREN

Fractal Audio was the first company ever to allow custom Impulses Responses (“IRs”) to be installed as speaker cab sims in a guitar product. Today’s gift is a very special cab IR from someone with a lot of expert experience in this area. Mikko Logren got his start producing tones on the Fractal Audio forum, and today he is the CEO of ML SOUND LAB, a successful company producing 3rd party Cab IRs for Fractal Audio products, and much more.

🎁 Here’s Mikko talking about today’s gift: “Here’s my personal cabinet: ‘Mikko’s Cab’. For a guy who owns 40+ guitar cabs, that’s an unusual name, but this is the original — the one that started it all for me. My gift is a completely new custom IR made specifically for today, so you can’t get it anywhere else!”

Learn more about ML Sound Lab: https://ml-sound-lab.com/

Mikko’s Cab is provided in two formats:

• SYX format -UltraRes™ with Minimum Phase Transform processing (MPT), compatible with Axe-Fx III, FM9, FM3, Axe-Fx II, and AX8.

• IR format- Raw IR data for use in Cab-Lab or if you prefer a non-MPT IR.

#5: CHRIS TRAYNOR

Chris Traynor has been with Fractal Audio almost since the beginning. He is the Lead guitarist for the band Bush, and a former member of Helmet, Orange 9mm, Rival Schools and Gavin Rossdale Band. As you’ll see in his video below, we couldn’t ask for a more gracious or articulate endorser, and we’re proud to also call him a friend.

🎁 Chris’s gift is the main preset from his Axe-Fx III rig as used on the recent Bush tour, with versions also included for FM9 and FM3. What does it do? “Same big rock tone, every single night, regardless of the venue,” says Chris.

IMPORTANT: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer (beta 2) or FM3 firmware 6 or newer (beta 4). If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old for these files, they will appear blank when you load them.

MORE FROM CHRIS

Find Chris online at https://www.instagram.com/ct3guitar/

#4: MARCO FANTON

🎁 Today’s gift from Marco Fanton is a new preset for the Axe-Fx III, FM9 or FM3.

IMPORTANT: Marco’s files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer (beta) or FM3 firmware 6 (beta) or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old for these files, they will appear blank when you load them.

MORE FROM MARCO

Visit Marco’s Web Site at www.marcofanton.it

Visit his shop at https://marcofanton.myshopify.com/

Find him on the Fractal Audio forum as Marco Fanton

#3: RYAN ‘FLUFF’ BRUCE

🎁 Fluff’s gift contains his live JVM preset for the Axe-Fx III, FM9 or FM3.

IMPORTANT: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 20.04 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer (beta) or FM3 firmware 6 (beta) or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old for these files, they will appear blank when you load them.

MORE FROM FLUFF

Find more from Fluff on his YouTube channel, Riffs, Beards & Gear
https://www.youtube.com/@RiffsAndBeards

Tour Dates For Dragged Under

#2: MARK DAY

🎁 Mark Day’s gift contains a new preset for the Axe-Fx III, FM9 or FM3.

IMPORTANT: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer (beta) or FM3 firmware 6 (beta) or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old for these files, they will appear blank when you load them.

MORE FROM MARK DAY

Find more from Mark on his YouTube channel, Mark Day Guitar:
https://www.youtube.com/samhillband

#1: LEON TODD

Leon Todd

🎁 Leon’s gift contains three PRESET BUNDLES. Each bundle contains a PRESET and a custom CAB IR. The IRs are also included separately in .Syx format for Axe-Fx III, FM9, or FM3, and .IR format for Cab-Lab.

Leon’s YouTube video includes a quick guide on how to install a preset/cab bundle.

IMPORTANT: These files require Axe-Fx III firmware 21 or newer, FM9 firmware 4 or newer (beta) or FM3 firmware 6 (beta) or newer. If the currently installed version of your firmware is too old for these files, they will appear blank when you load them.

MORE FROM LEON

Leon makes guitar noises with Aussie power trio Ragdoll and also hosts a popular Youtube channel. Subscribe to his channel stay in touch and receive more legendary Fractal Audio content, and find him as “2112” on the Fractal Audio forum.
https://ragdollrock.bandcamp.com
https://youtube.com/c/LeonTodd

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