Fractal Audio Firmware Update Thread

On a serious note... it would probably be more useful if we were to split this thread out into sub-threads for each of the top modellers, so people can watch the ones that they're interested in.

So that's just 2 threads required, then :whistle

Do it, JD. Do it! :beer
 
I'll take the one nobody likes :bag

Sexy Hot Girl GIF by Cappa Video Productions
 
I’ve had worse. But that’s a story for another day.

I should clarify this- I didn’t actually “have” it. The full story is coming out on my buddy’s podcast soon. It’s as equally entertaining now as it was horrifying when it happened, but I got catfished back in ‘01 before catfishing was even a phrase.
 

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Version 4.0 - November 18, 2022​

FM9 firmware version 4.00 implements Fractal Audio Systems “Cygnus X-2” amplifier modeling. The default values of various parameters have been updated. Existing presets are automatically updated to the new values upon loading.

New Features​

  • Added new amp models: "Brit Studio 20" and “Plexi 50W 6CA7 Jumped” and “Herbie MK3”.
  • Added “Overdrive Volume” parameter to Dumble-type amp models (ODS-100, Two Stone, etc.). This is sometimes labeled “Ratio” or “Lead Master”. As the Master Volume on these amps often has a bright capacitor, the Overdrive Volume control allows setting the Master Volume higher to counteract the bright cap and then lowering the power amp drive with the Volume.
  • Added “Plate Suppressor Diodes” parameter. This value is set automatically when the amp model is chosen but the user can override the default setting. Most amps do not have suppressor diodes but some do (e.g., Trainwreck Express). These diodes (also called “snubber” or “flyback” diodes) prevent undershoot on the power tube plates due to inductive kick and reduce upper harmonics thereby reducing “fizz”.
  • Added “Griddle Cake” Drive model based on a Crowther Hot Cake. The “XLF” switch on the pedal can be replicated by turning the Bass Response knob fully CW.
  • Improved the amp block output transformer algorithm. The new algorithm more accurately models B-H curve, resulting in a clearer low end. The new algorithm now also accounts for the effect of speaker impedance on transformer response.
  • Improved power tube modeling. This yields better dynamics and improved low frequency accuracy.
  • Improved cathode follower algorithm. Provides more accurate “cleanup” when volume is rolled off.
  • Improved triode algorithm which more accurately models plate bypass capacitors.
  • Improved Drive block modeling to more accurately model effects of op-amp finite open-loop gain and GBW product.
  • The CPU overload condition is now re-evaluated when a new preset is loaded via the edit buffer from FM9-Edit.

Updates​

  • All amp models are updated for use with Cygnus X-2.
  • The Ideal amp controls have been updated.
  • Renamed USA Clean to USA Rhythm 1 to be more in line with actual amp.
  • MIDI clock data at the MIDI In DIN connector will cause the “MIDI IN” LED to be on.

Fixes​

  • Normally closed type stand-in switches operate properly.
  • FC “Banner Messages” being displayed doesn’t cause the entire LCD to redraw.
  • The external SPDIF clock will be used automatically after boot when signal is preset and SPDIF Word Clock mode is selected.
  • The Reverb effect wet/dry mixing strategy is changed to match the latest Axe FX III method.
  • The AMP effect speaker impedance curve graph is now calculated using the same method as the Axe FX III.
  • The Foot Controller layout will not inadvertently be changed when using controls that cause “Banner Messages” to be displayed.
  • External foot controller stand-in switch assignment mapping is corrected.
  • Fixed wrong coupling capacitor value in 1959SLP Treble, 1959SLP Jumped and 1987x Treble amp models.
  • Fixed wrong resistor value in tone stack of Solo 88 Rhythm and Lead models.
  • Fixed low frequency behavior of Recto2 models due to loss of precision.
  • Fixed wrong treble pot taper in CA3+ models.
  • Fixed wrong capacitor value in Friedman HBE V1 Fat model.
  • Fixed wrong resistor value in AC-20 12AX7 models.
  • Fixed wrong Depth knob taper in Archean models.
  • MIDI PC Mapping “To Scene” function is corrected.
  • The “Scene Revert” setting is taken into account when recalling a scene with a MIDI CC command.
Vanilla Ice Abc GIF by Dancing with the Stars
 
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I am not sure what is beyond "pushing the envelope," but whatever it is that is
where Fractal is these days. Do they ever rest? Are like some obsessive Coach
who sleeps on a cot in his or her office so they can stay one step ahead of the
competition? Sure seems like it.

The level of commitment and sheer tenacity they show is impressive, to say the least!
 
I am not sure what is beyond "pushing the envelope," but whatever it is that is
where Fractal is these days. Do they ever rest? Are like some obsessive Coach
who sleeps on a cot in his or her office so they can stay one step ahead of the
competition? Sure seems like it.

The level of commitment and sheer tenacity they show is impressive, to say the least!
If what Cliff hinted at is correct, I think a revised cab section may be the next big upgrade
 
I feel like throwing money at them given how much better the device I purchased
from them is now compared to when I purchased it. Seriously!

The fact that they are such a small company allows them to pivot and implement
stuff without getting bogged down in upper echelon corporate bureaucracy.

I bet whatever comes our way is gonna be pushing the manila folder of Cab Blocks,
IRs, and the like.
 
BI feel like throwing money at them given how much better the device I purchased
from them is now compared to when I purchased it. Seriously!

The fact that they are such a small company allows them to pivot and implement
stuff without getting bogged down in upper echelon corporate bureaucracy.

I bet whatever comes our way is gonna be pushing the manila folder of Cab Blocks,
IRs, and the like.
I've given them more than enough money :rofl

But yes I've never felt anywhere close to not getting my money's worth and much more
 

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Version 4.0 - November 18, 2022​

FM9 firmware version 4.00 implements Fractal Audio Systems “Cygnus X-2” amplifier modeling. The default values of various parameters have been updated. Existing presets are automatically updated to the new values upon loading.
Nice to see updates for the FM9. Although, I'm in the wrong thread, because I don't like retweaking my tones for updates. Unless that has changed...
  • Renamed USA Clean to USA Rhythm 1 to be more in line with actual amp.
Bah. I prefer "clean" so I can easily tell it is actually clean instead of trying to remember whether or not Rhythm 1 is a light gain tone with another channel for clean. I'd rather they make it "more in line" by calling it what it is: a Boogie Mark IV.

(Yeah, I am aware of the need to avoid trademark issues. Not to mention I have a Mark IV and should readily know Rhythm 1 is a clean tone. In other words, the second part of this post amounts to empty whining).
 
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