Perfect Companions to the Axe-Fx III
The new FC-6 and FC-12 Foot Controllers for the Axe-Fx III are the perfect way to control to your performances with the world’s most powerful guitar processor. These tough next-gen controllers offer an impressive suite of features and capabilities, incorporating years of innovation and customer feedback. They look great too, making an awesome addition to your stage or studio.
Great Simplicity plus Extreme Flexibility
The FC-12 and FC-6 were designed to be easy to use while granting extreme flexibility. For those who want simplicity, the unit is virtually plug-and-play. Use the “Master Layout Menu” to select from “Layouts” — pages of footswitches arranged in familiar and intuitive ways. On each layout, the LED rings change color to show switch functions and statuses (on/off/dim), while “smart” LCD mini-displays eliminate guesswork (and the need for labels!) with an automatic readout for each switch.
For simple changes, use new “EZ Mode” to modify any switch in seconds. Just tap and turn to select from the many different ways to control presets, banks, scenes, effects, channels, tuner, tempo, looper, control switches, and more. Such simplicity does not come at the cost of flexibility. Creative users can design and build their dream controller with ease. You can modify layouts with any arrangement of tap and hold functions, customize mini-display text, and more. You can even override the functions of individual footswitches on a per-preset basis!
Built for Tough Tours and Bright Stages
Above all, you can expect “Fractal Quality” from the FC controller. The unit is housed in a powdercoated 16-gauge steel chassis with durable protective endcaps doubling as feet. The SSS™ footswitches are extremely durable and quiet, with no mechanical contacts to fail. The LED rings and displays are easy to read even under adverse lighting conditions—from darkness to full sunlight—creating a pedalboard that is extremely informative and user-friendly.
Another improvement is the all new FASLINK™ II system. One standard XLR cable provides two-way communication between the FC and Axe-Fx III. Faster than MIDI, more rugged than Ethernet, the proven FASLINK format is worthy of the most challenging conditions. A FASLINK thru port on every FC allows you to daisy-chain up to a total of four FC units for bigger rigs. FASLINK II even powers your first FC, while an AC adapter is used for downstream units.
Each FC controller has four jacks for connecting expression pedals such as the Fractal Audio EV, and another two jacks for connecting up to four external switches. Pedals and switches can be used in the Axe-Fx III for a range of global and modifier control options.
For the pro player with a tech supporting them off stage, new “Mirroring” capability allows your choice of on-stage and off-stage FC units to imitate each other completely without dual programming. This is better than vintage “master-slave” technology in that both units are effectively the master: any change made on either is reflected on both.
Future Proof Foot Controller
Best of all, FC firmware and settings are built in to the Axe-Fx III, so you won’t need to update or backup your FC controller separately. As with all Fractal Audio products, this means that the FC will enjoy a future of updates and innovations for years to come.
Features and Specs
Two perfectly sized versions: FC-12 with 12 switches and FC-6 with 6.
Aside from the number of switches, the two FC models are identical in capabilities.
Plug-and-play with smart default settings, or create your own custom Layouts.
Switch Layouts on the fly using switches or the “Master Layout Menu”.
Daisy-Chain up to four FC units for bigger setups.
2×20 Transflective Main Display shows preset, scene and more.
Every footswitch has its own smart, customizable, 128×32 graphical LCD Mini-Display.
… And a brilliant variable-color LED ring which also shows the status of on, off, or dim depending on the state of whatever the switch is connected to.
Add up to Four External Pedals and Four Switches per FC unit.
Built for stages and touring with a powdercoated 16-gauge steel chassis.
SSS™ switches are extremely quiet and durable, with no mechanical switch contacts to fail.
FASLINK™ II port for connecting to an Axe-Fx III. (Axe-Fx II not supported).
FASLINK™ II “thru” port for connecting to other daisy-chained FC units.
Need MIDI? The FC can trigger the Axe-Fx III to generate and transmit messages from its own MIDI out port to connected devices.
FC-12 Dimensions. 20.2″ x 9.2″ x 3.5″ (512mm x 233mm x 88mm). Weight: 11 lbs (5 kg).
FC-6 Dimensions. 11.2″ x 9.2″ x 3.5″ (283mm x 233mm x 88mm). Weight: 6.7 lbs (3 kg).