Axess Electronics FX1 User Manual
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Table of Contents
1. Warranty.................................................................................................................................... 5
2. Precautions............................................................................................................................... 5
3. Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 6
3.1 Features List .................................................................................................................................................6
4. Fundamentals ........................................................................................................................... 7
5. Quick Start................................................................................................................................ 8
6. Display....................................................................................................................................... 9
7. Switches & LED’s.................................................................................................................... 10
7.1 Primary Switch Functions............................................................................................................................10
7.1.1 EDIT/2nd..............................................................................................................................................................10
7.1.2 UP & DOWN .......................................................................................................................................................10
7.1.3 P1 – P6 ...............................................................................................................................................................11
7.1.4 S1 – S12 .............................................................................................................................................................11
7.1.5 S13 – S24 ...........................................................................................................................................................11
7.2 Secondary Switch Functions.......................................................................................................................12
7.2.1 COPY..................................................................................................................................................................12
7.2.2 MIDI ....................................................................................................................................................................12
7.2.3 NAMES ...............................................................................................................................................................12
7.2.4 PRESET..............................................................................................................................................................12
7.2.5 SONGSET ..........................................................................................................................................................12
7.2.6 UTILITY...............................................................................................................................................................12
7.2.7 0 – 9 ....................................................................................................................................................................12
7.2.8 SELECT ..............................................................................................................................................................12
7.2.9 ENTER ¨...........................................................................................................................................................12
7.2.10 INC/NO & DEC/YES ...........................................................................................................................................12
7.2.11 EXIT/SAVE .........................................................................................................................................................13
8. Rear Panel............................................................................................................................... 14
8.1.1 XPDL:1................................................................................................................................................................14
8.1.2 XPDL:2................................................................................................................................................................14
8.1.3 XPDL:3................................................................................................................................................................14
8.1.4 XPDL:4................................................................................................................................................................14
8.1.5 S11:S12 ..............................................................................................................................................................14
8.1.6 9VAC:0.4A ..........................................................................................................................................................15
8.1.7 MIDI IN................................................................................................................................................................15
8.1.8 MIDI OUT............................................................................................................................................................15
8.1.9 TO RACK ............................................................................................................................................................15
8.1.10 EXPANDER ........................................................................................................................................................15
9. Power On................................................................................................................................. 16
10. Edit Mode ................................................................................................................................ 17
11. Copy Menu............................................................................................................................... 18
11.1 Preset Copy ................................................................................................................................................18
11.2 Bank Copy ..................................................................................................................................................19
11.3 Song Copy ..................................................................................................................................................20
11.4 Setlist Copy.................................................................................................................................................21
11.5 Instant Access Switch Copy........................................................................................................................22
12. MIDI Menu ............................................................................................................................... 23
12.1 Receive MIDI Channel ................................................................................................................................23
12.2 Program Change Starting Number..............................................................................................................24
12.3 S1 – S24 Control & Program Changes .......................................................................................................25
12.4 Internal Control Changes ............................................................................................................................27
12.5 XP1 – XP4 Global Settings .........................................................................................................................28
12.6 S1 – S12 Custom Hex / MIDI Message ........................................................................................................30
12.6.1 MIDI Messages For Guitar Players 101..............................................................................................................32
Table of Contents
13. Names Menu ........................................................................................................................... 35
13.1 Song Names ...............................................................................................................................................35
13.2 Setlist Names..............................................................................................................................................36
13.3 MIDI Channel Names..................................................................................................................................37
13.4 Instant Access Switch Names.....................................................................................................................38
13.5 Internal Control Change Names..................................................................................................................39
14. Preset Menu ............................................................................................................................ 40
14.1 Preset Select...............................................................................................................................................40
14.2 Preset Name ...............................................................................................................................................41
14.3 Program Change Messages .......................................................................................................................42
14.4 Instant Access Switch On / Off Status ..........................................................................................................43
14.5 Internal Control Change On / Off Status .......................................................................................................44
14.6 XP1 – XP4 Preset Settings .........................................................................................................................45
14.7 Preset Custom Hex / MIDI Message.............................................................................................................47
14.7.1 MIDI Messages For Guitar Players 101..............................................................................................................48
15. SongSet Menu ......................................................................................................................... 51
15.1 Song Create / Edit.........................................................................................................................................51
15.2 Setlist Create / Edit .......................................................................................................................................52
16. Utility Menu............................................................................................................................. 53
16.1 Operating Mode ..........................................................................................................................................53
16.2 S1 – S12 Switch Link ..................................................................................................................................54
16.3 Instant Access Switch Type ........................................................................................................................56
16.4 XP1 – XP4 Port Type..................................................................................................................................57
16.5 XP1 – XP4 Port Calibration.........................................................................................................................58
16.5.1 Calibrating An Expression Pedal Port.................................................................................................................58
16.6 Global Preset Availability ............................................................................................................................60
16.7 Data Dump / Load.........................................................................................................................................61
16.7.1 Remote Data Dump/Load ...................................................................................................................................61
16.8 Delete / Restore ............................................................................................................................................62
16.9 Firmware Version & Update........................................................................................................................64
16.9.1 Updating The FX1 Firmware...............................................................................................................................64
17. Cables ..................................................................................................................................... 66
17.1.1 XPDL & External Switch .....................................................................................................................................66
17.1.2 XPDL & External Volume Pedal..........................................................................................................................66
17.1.3 XPDL & External Expression Pedal ....................................................................................................................66
17.1.4 S11:S12 & External Dual Footswitch ..................................................................................................................67
17.1.5 S11:S12 & Two External Footswitches...............................................................................................................67
17.1.6 S11:S12 & Single External Footswitch (S11)......................................................................................................68
17.1.7 S11:S12 & Single External Footswitch (S12)......................................................................................................68
18. Remote Control....................................................................................................................... 69
18.1.1 PRST Operating Mode........................................................................................................................................69
18.1.2 SETn Operating Mode ........................................................................................................................................69
18.1.3 SONG Operating Mode.......................................................................................................................................69
19. Master / Slave Loop .................................................................................................................. 70
19.1.1 Master/Slave Connections..................................................................................................................................70
19.1.2 Master/Slave Cable Details.................................................................................................................................71
19.1.3 Power Supply/Adapter Details ............................................................................................................................71
19.1.4 A Few Things To Remember ..............................................................................................................................71
20. Factory Default Settings......................................................................................................... 72
21. MIDI Implementation Chart .................................................................................................... 73
22. Controlling Multiple GCX’s......................................................................................................74
23. User Manual Revision History ................................................................................................ 75
1. Warranty
This product is warranted against failures due to defective parts or faulty workmanship for a period of one year after
delivery to the original owner. During this one year period, Axess Electronics will make any necessary repairs without
charge for parts and labor. However, shipping charges to and from the repair location must be paid by the owner.
This warranty applies only to the original owner and is not transferable.
This warranty does not cover damage to the product as a result from accident or misuse.
This warranty will be canceled at the sole discretion of Axess Electronics if the product has:
• Any signs of tampering, unauthorized service, or modifications.
• Any damage resulting from physical abuse or failure to follow the operating instructions.
Axess Electronics reserves the right to make any changes and/or improvements to the design of this product without
any obligation to include those changes in any previously manufactured units.
Axess Electronics’ liability to the owner and under this warranty is limited only to the repair or replacement of the
defective product. Call or write to Axess Electronics prior to shipping the product for repair.
How To Reach Us
Mail: Axess Electronics Tel. No.: 416-410-9688
251 Queen Street South #278
Mississauga, Ontario L5M1L7
Canada Website: http://www.axess-electronics.com
2. Precautions
It is VERY important to read this section carefully to ensure years of reliable operation from this device. Failure to
follow these precautions WILL void the warranty and may result in Axess Electronics’ refusal to service/support the
device in the future.
Do NOT remove the cover from this device at any time.
Do NOT tamper with, make any internal adjustments or additions to this device at any time.
Do NOT use this device near water and/or allow any liquid to spill into it through any of its openings.
Do NOT drill any part of the chassis to secure this device to a pedalboard, use 3M Dual-Lock instead.
Do NOT drill the bottom of the chassis to attach rubber-feet, use the supplied self-adhesive 3M rubber-feet instead.
Do NOT use any solvents (such as Benzene etc.) to clean the exterior. ONLY use a dry soft cloth to remove dust/dirt.
Do NOT attempt to service this device and/or have anyone else attempt to service this device other than Axess
Electronics.
Do NOT expose this device to excessive heat. It has been designed and tested to operate between 0 oC and 45 oC
(32 oF and 113 oF). This device may shut down under extreme temperature conditions.
Axess Electronics : FX1 MIDI Footcontroller User Manual
5
3. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Axess Electronics FX1 MIDI Footcontroller.
After reviewing the introduction section of some other user manuals for inspiration, I noticed they usually start with the
word “congratulations” and include words such as “finest”, “most powerful” and “ultimate” when describing the
product. I was going to use similar words, as I probably have in other user manuals, but instead I decided not to and
will leave that up to you and others.
I designed the FX1 to be rugged, reliable, full featured, yet simple to program and operate, whether on stage in front
of tens of thousands or just tens of tens etc. Hopefully I have succeeded and you think it’s worthy of being described
as one of the “finest”, “most powerful” and “ultimate” MIDI footcontrollers around.
I would also like to thank the following people without whom the FX1 would not have been possible for one reason or
another. My wife, daughter and dog – for hesitantly allowing me to work crazy hours and sacrificing a whole lot of
quality family time, Daryl Speers – the unbelievably talented software engineer who made my FX1 dream/design a
reality, Mike Marino – thanks for you know what bro, Gil Elgez, Kevin Young, Lonnie Totman, Dave Friedman, the
loyal Axess followers who placed advance orders, sight unseen, and the handful of other’s who gave me ideas.
Mario Marino, President
AXESS ELECTRONICS
3.1
• 6 preset switches (blue LED's).
• 12 instant access switches (green LED's).
• Edit/2nd (red LED), Bank Up & Down switches with
yellow LED's.
• 127 preset memory locations.
• 21 banks of 6 presets, plus a Global Preset.
• Four (global and per preset) expression pedal ports.
• Large 1-line x 16-character LCD display w/backlight.
• Song & setlist modes.
• Create up to 99 songs.
• Organize the 99 songs into 10 setlists of 50 songs.
• Heavy-duty Carling stomp switches (the real ones).
• Switches are spaced 3.00” apart in every direction.
• Master/Slave functionality for multiple footcontroller rigs.
• Expression pedal port calibration.
• Bulk data dump and load capabilities.
• Software upgrades via its MIDI IN jack.
• Scroll through banks/songs without activating a preset.
• Easily copy presets, banks, songs, setlists and instant
• Easily name presets, songs, setlists, MIDI channels,
• Individually configure instant access switches to operate
• Each instant access switch can transmit two control
Features List
access switches.
instant access switches and more.
as latching type or hold type switches.
change messages and two program change messages
(one when the switch is on and the other when it’s off).
• Multiple instant access switches can be linked together
to allow for quick/easy selection and indication of which
channel is on, on multi-channel guitar amps, all with the
press of one switch.
• Instant access switches and presets are capable of
sending custom 16 byte hex/MIDI messages.
• Presets can simultaneously transmit program change
messages (starting at 000 or 001 - user selectable for
each MIDI channel) on all 16 MIDI channels.
• Standard (5-pin) MIDI IN and MIDI OUT jacks.
• Heavy-duty TO RACK (5-pin) XLR MIDI OUT jack.
• Powered by a 9VAC adapter (which is included) with a
5.5mm/2.1mm barrel connector or phantom powered via
the TO RACK or MIDI OUT jacks.
• Rugged 0.118" (3mm) thick aluminum enclosure.
• Dimensions - 18.00"W x 12.00"D x 1.25"FH x 3.50"RH
• Brush finish with black anodize coating & laser-engraved
printing.
• Optional 12 instant access switch expander.
• The FX1 will automatically sense the expander
is connected, no $oftware upgrade is necessary.
• Powered by the FX1 via the included XLR cable.
• Same physical / mechanical attributes of the FX1.
• Dimensions - 9.00"W x 12.00"D x 1.25"FH x 3.50"RH
Axess Electronics : FX1 MIDI Footcontroller User Manual
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4. Fundamentals
The FX1 MIDI Footcontroller has four different operating modes, plus the Edit Mode (see Section 10). The operating
modes are;
Slave (SLAV)
Preset (PRST)
Songs (SONG)
Setlist (SET0 – SET9)
The PRST Operating Mode (factory default) allows the FX1 to behave like a standard footcontroller with banks (21) of
presets (6) plus a Global Preset.
The SONG Operating Mode allows access to the FX1’s 99 songs. Songs are basically a custom bank of the FX1’s
regular (banked) presets, arranged so that all the presets necessary during the performance of a song are available
in one bank (conveniently called a song).
The SET0 – SET9 Operating Mode(s) allow up to 50 of the FX1’s 99 songs to be arranged in any order to create a
setlist. The FX1 can support 10 different setlists.
The SLAV Operating Mode allows multiple FX1’s (setup in a Master/Slave Loop) to control the same guitar rig from
remote onstage and offstage locations. When connecting multiple FX1’s in a Master/Slave Loop, one FX1 must be
set to a master operating mode (PRST, SONG or SET0 – SET9) and all the other FX1’s must be set to the SLAV
Operating Mode. When in this operating mode, the FX1 will mimic the master FX1’s operating mode.
While in one of the above operating modes, the display is used to provide three different pieces of information.
The first two characters on the left-hand side of the display indicate the bank or song number, depending on the
operating mode selected.
The third character (from the left) will always be blank except when it periodically flashes a small character to indicate
the current operating mode.
The final 13 characters on the display are used to show the user assigned name for the preset or song, depending on
the operating mode selected.
Preset switches P1 to P6 are used to select a preset, instant access switches S1 to S12 (to S24 if the expander is
connected) are used to turn a specific loop or function in the guitar rig ON or OFF, and the UP and DOWN switches
are used to select a bank or song, depending on the operating mode selected.
When a preset is selected, the MIDI data programmed for the preset, as well as the ON or OFF state MIDI messages
of all the instant access switches, will be transmitted via the MIDI OUT and TO RACK jacks. Preset switches allow
every piece of gear in a guitar rig to be switched at the same time with the press of one switch.
Instant access switches can be pressed at any time to turn a turn the specific loop or function in a guitar rig ON and
OFF in real-time, without affecting anything else in the rig. When an instant access switch is pressed, its ON or OFF
state (indicated by its LED) MIDI messages will be transmitted via the MIDI OUT and TO RACK jacks. The LED
above the EDIT/2nd switch will begin to flash after an instant access switch has been pressed indicating that the
preset has been changed. Pressing the EDIT/2nd switch when its LED is flashing will update/save the preset with
the new ON/OFF settings of the instant access switches. Alternatively, pressing the active preset switch or selecting
another preset will recall and transmit its stored MIDI data/settings or the instant access switch(es) can be pressed to
return the preset to its stored state, both of which cause the
Pressing the UP and DOWN switches will select a new bank or song number depending on the operating mode
selected. After pressing either of these switches, the bank or song number will begin to flash, indicating the number
shown is not current. Pressing a preset switch will select the appropriate preset in the new bank or song, otherwise
pressing the UP or DOWN switch to return back to the current bank or song will cause the number to stop flashing.
EDIT/2nd switch LED to stop flashing.
Axess Electronics : FX1 MIDI Footcontroller User Manual
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5. Quick Start
1. If using the optional expander, be sure to connect it to the FX1 using ONLY the supplied cable and ONLY when
the power is off (see Section 8.1.10 for details).
2. See Section 4 : Fundamentals to get a basic understanding of the FX1 user interface, and for avid readers see
Section 6 to Section 9 for a detailed description of the user interface.
3. Connect a MIDI cable from either the TO RACK jack or the MIDI OUT jack on the FX1 to the main MIDI input
point/jack of the guitar rig/switcher being controlled by the FX1 (see Sections 8.1.8 and 8.1.9).
4. If the FX1 is not receiving 9Vac phantom power from the guitar rig/switcher it’s controlling, connect the supplied
adapter to the FX1 power jack (see Section 8.1.6).
5. Enter the Edit Mode (see Section 10).
6. Verify that the (factory default) PRST Operating Mode is selected (see Section 16.1).
7. Decide what will be connected to each expression pedal port (see Sections 16.4 and 17.1.1 to 17.1.3) and then
calibrate each pedal/switch (see Section 16.5).
8. Setup the global MIDI control change message that each expression pedal port will transmit (see Section 12.5).
9. Decide what loops and switching functions in the guitar rig the instant access switches will control and setup the
MIDI control change and/or program change messages that each instant access switch will transmit when
pressed and as part of a preset (see Section 12.3).
10. Assign a name for each instant access switch being used (see Section 13.4).
FYI - When labeling the instant access switches with self-adhesive labels, align the top edge of the label with the
bottom edge of the “boxed” instant access switch number (S1 – S12 or S24 with the expander) so that all the
labels are aligned perfectly... There is enough room under each instant access switch (except S13 – S15 on the
expander) to accommodate two 1/2” labels or three 3/8” labels.
11. Assign the name of each MIDI device in the guitar rig to its corresponding MIDI channel (see Section 13.3).
12. Select a preset to be programmed (see Section 14.1) and name it (see Section 14.2).
13. Setup any MIDI program change messages that the preset should transmit when selected (see Section 14.3).
14. Turn the loops and/or switching functions controlled by the instant access switches ON or OFF for the preset
being programmed (see Section 14.4). This step can also be performed while in the PRST Operating Mode as
outlined in Section 4 and detailed in Section 7.2.11).
15. If it’s necessary to have the expression pedal ports control something different/specific for the preset being
programmed than what was entered in Step #8, see Section 14.6.
The FX1 is ready to go !!! Repeat Step #12 to Step #15 for other presets.
Please note that the FX1 can transmit a LOT of MIDI data when a preset switch is selected. In fact, if every possible
MIDI message that the FX1 is capable of transmitting per preset is enabled and used, the total number of bytes
transmitted would be 516. The MIDI specification stipulates that a single MIDI event (such as when a preset switch is
pressed) should be kept to 255 bytes or less. The FX1 will not place a restriction on how many or which of its MIDI
messages can be enabled and used, so this is one of the reasons that the FX1 is shipped with all its MIDI messages
and features turned off. Therefore the only MIDI messages transmitted by the FX1 will be what have been turned on
and/or programmed into it. It’s very unlikely that anyone will ever need to use all of the features that have been put
into the FX1, but they are there to provide options, so just use some restraint...
Axess Electronics : FX1 MIDI Footcontroller User Manual
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6. Display
The display is a 1-line by 16-character dot-matrix LCD with a backlight.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
When in the Edit Mode, the display will show the parameter(s) being edited.
When in the Slave (SLAV) Operating Mode the display will show the exact same information as the display on the
master FX1 (see Section 19 : Master/Slave Loop for more information).
In the Preset (PRST) Operating Mode the display will show the bank number (01 to 21) at display locations a and b,
and at display locations d to p the 13-character user defined preset name.
In the Songs (SONG) Operating Mode the display will show song number 01 to 99 at display locations a and b, and
when in one of the ten Setlist (SET0 – SET9) Operating Modes the display will show song number 01 to 50.
For the SONG and SET0 – SET9 Operating Modes, display locations d to p will show either the 13-character user
defined song name (when the UP / DOWN switches are pressed to select a new song) or the 13-character user
defined preset name (when a preset is selected via preset switches P1 - P6). To have the display always show the
song name, apply power to the FX1 while pressing the P3 switch. To revert back to displaying the song and preset
names as described above, apply power to the FX1 while pressing the P4 switch. This “display setting” is stored in
the FX1’s memory, so applying power with one of these switches pressed only needs to be done once to select it.
When in one of the above “Operating Modes”, the 3
bank/song number and the preset/song name) will be used to indicate the operating mode by periodically flashing a
small operating mode indicator/character. The letter “P” will flash to indicate the Preset (PRST) Operating Mode, the
letter “G” will flash to indicate the Songs (SONG) Operating Mode, a number between “0” and “9” will flash to indicate
the Setlist (SET0 – SET9) Operating Mode and the letter “V” will flash to indicate the Slave (SLAV) Operating Mode.
rd
display character (location c – a blank character between the
Axess Electronics : FX1 MIDI Footcontroller User Manual
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7. Switches & LED’s
The FX1 top panel is fitted with 21 heavy-duty Carling stomp switches. Each switch has dual functions, the primary
function is listed underneath the switch and the secondary function is listed between the switch and its LED. The
primary function is used when the FX1 is in one of the above mentioned “Operating Modes” and the secondary
function is used when the FX1 is in the Edit Mode.
When not in the Edit Mode (i.e. one of the above “Operating Modes”), the LED above the EDIT/2nd switch will be
OFF, indicating that the primary switch functions are available.
When in the Edit Mode, the LED above the EDIT/2nd switch will always be ON and one or all of the P1 to P6 switch
LED’s will flash, indicating that the Edit Mode or one of its sub-menu’s has been selected. Only the LED for switches
that have a purpose or function when in the Edit Mode or one of its sub-menu’s will be ON, all others will be OFF.
7.1
Primary Switch Functions
7.1.1 EDIT/2nd
This switch allows entry to the Edit Mode. To avoid entering the Edit Mode when accidentally pressing this switch, it is
equipped with a delay. So to enter the Edit Mode, press and hold this switch down for 1 second, all the LED’s will turn
OFF except the LED above this switch which will turn ON, and the P1 to P6 switch LED’s which will start flashing.
7.1.2 UP & DOWN
When in one of the “Operating Modes”, the LED above these switches will always be ON making it a little easier to
see where the switches are on a darkened stage.
When in the PRST Operating Mode, pressing and releasing these switches will move up and down through a bank of
presets, one bank at a time. Holding down these switches will scroll up and down through banks of presets, they are
repetitive accelerating and the bank number will rollover (upwards) from 21 to 01 and (downwards) from 01 to 21.
As soon as one of these switches has been pressed, the bank number will start to flash indicating the bank has been
changed. No preset will be selected in the new bank until a preset switch has physically been pressed. While the
bank number is flashing, the operating mode indicator will remain off and the preset name and ON/OFF status of the
instant access switch LED’s will remain unchanged.
Pressing either of these switches to return to the original bank will cause the bank number to stop flashing. Selecting
a preset in the new bank will also cause the bank number to stop flashing and it will update the display with the new
preset name and the ON/OFF status of the instant access switch LED’s will also be updated as per the new preset.
When in the SONG or one of the SET0 – SET9 Operating Modes, pressing and releasing these switches will move
up and down through a song, one song at a time. Holding down these switches will scroll up and down through
songs, they are repetitive accelerating and the song number will rollover (upwards) from 99 to 01 and (downwards)
from 01 to 99 when in the SONG Operating Mode and (upwards) from 50 to 01 and (downwards) from 01 to 50 when
in one of the SET0 – SET9 Operating Modes.
As soon as one of these switches has been pressed, the song number will start to flash indicating the song has been
changed. No preset will be selected in the new song until a preset switch has physically been pressed. While the
song number is flashing, the operating mode indicator will remain off and ON/OFF status of the instant access switch
LED’s will remain unchanged, but the song name will change to reflect the new (flashing) song number, allowing for
verification of the next/queued song.
Pressing either of these switches to return to the original song will cause the song number to stop flashing. Selecting
a preset in the new song will also cause the song number to stop flashing and the ON/OFF status of the instant
access switch LED’s will be updated as per the new preset.
Axess Electronics : FX1 MIDI Footcontroller User Manual
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7.1 Primary Switch Functions (Cont’d)
7.1.3 P1 – P6
These are (six) preset switches and they recall presets 1 to 6 or the Global Preset. Presets allow all the devices in a
guitar rig to be controlled with the press of one switch, a preset switch. Only one preset can be active at a time and
the LED’s above the preset switches are used to indicate which it is. Though the FX1 has six preset switches, it is
actually capable of recalling seven presets. The seventh preset is called the Global Preset and it is selected by
pressing the preset switch that is active (the LED above the preset switch will be ON). When all the preset switch
LED’s are OFF, it indicates that the Global Preset is active.
Realizing that some guitarists might not like the possibility of pressing a preset switch by accident and selecting the
Global Preset, the FX1 allows for the Global Preset to be disabled (see Section 16.6 : Global Preset Availability for
more information). When the Global Preset is disabled, pressing the active preset switch will cause the FX1 to do,
and transmit, absolutely nothing.
When in the PRST Operating Mode, the Global Preset is the same in every bank and when in the SET0 – SET9 or
SONG Operating Modes, the Global Preset is unique to the selected song.
Presets transmit MIDI messages specific to the selected preset (such as MIDI program change messages and a
custom 16 byte hex/MIDI message) as well as the ON or OFF state MIDI messages of all the instant access switches
and internal control changes, depending on whether they are supposed to be ON or OFF for the selected preset.
7.1.4 S1 – S12
These are (twelve) instant access switches and they are used to turn a specific function (such as an audio loop or a
switching function on a guitar router/switcher) ON or OFF without affecting any other audio loops, switching functions
or devices within a guitar rig.
The LED above each instant access switch will indicate whether the function controlled by the switch is ON or OFF.
Typically (on other footcontrollers) instant access switches only transmit a single MIDI control change message. This
has proven to be very limiting for a lot of guitarists, so the FX1’s instant access switches have been designed with the
ability to transmit two MIDI control change messages, two MIDI program change messages (one when the switch is
ON and the other when it is OFF) and two custom 16 byte hex / MIDI messages (one when ON and one when OFF).
Another feature designed into the FX1 is the ability to select how each instant access switch will operate when
pressed and released, each can be configured to operate as a latching switch or as a hold type switch. Pressing and
releasing a latching switch once will turn it ON and transmit its ON state MIDI messages, pressing and releasing the
switch again will turn it OFF and transmit its OFF state MIDI messages. Pressing a hold type switch will turn it ON
and transmit it’s ON state MIDI messages and releasing the switch will turn it OFF and transmit it’s OFF state MIDI
messages. When selecting a preset on the FX1, the ON/OFF state MIDI messages for hold type instant access
switches are NOT transmitted as part of the preset. The default switch type for all instant access switches is latching.
The final feature (which Axess is the 1
up to two sets of instant access switches. Each linked set may contain up to four instant access switches. When
instant access switches are linked together in a set, only one of the instant access switches can be ON at any time, in
each set. So pressing an instant access switch that is OFF will turn it ON and the instant access switch that was ON
before will turn OFF automatically. See Section 16.2 : S1 – S12 Switch Link for more information.
st
to offer) designed into the FX1’s instant access switches is the ability to link
7.1.5 S13 – S24
These are (twelve) more instant access switches located on the optional expander. They offer similar features and
functionality as S1 – S12 on the FX1, but they cannot be linked and they don’t support custom hex/MIDI messages.
Please note that unlike the footcontrollers and expanders offered by other companies, the FX1 does not require an
expander to be connected in order for the FX1 to transmit the MIDI messages associated with the expander's instant
access switches when a preset is selected. So to recap, if the expander is disconnected or one is never connected at
all, the FX1 will continue to transmit the MIDI messages associated with the expander whenever a preset is selected.
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7.2
Secondary Switch Functions
7.2.1 COPY
When at the main Edit Menu, pressing this switch will select and move through the Copy Menu.
7.2.2 MIDI
When at the main Edit Menu, pressing this switch will select and move through the MIDI Menu.
7.2.3 NAMES
When at the main Edit Menu, pressing this switch will select and move through the Names Menu.
7.2.4 PRESET
When at the main Edit Menu, pressing this switch will select and move through the Preset Menu.
7.2.5 SONGSET
When at the main Edit Menu, pressing this switch will select and move through the SongSet Menu.
7.2.6 UTILITY
When at the main Edit Menu, pressing this switch will select and move through the Utility Menu.
7.2.7 0 – 9
These switches are used to enter a numeric value for a parameter being edited.
7.2.8 SELECT
This switch is used to move the cursor across the display when multiple parameters are shown. It’s also used to
switch/toggle between two different options for a parameter being edited.
7.2.9 ENTER
This switch is used to initiate/execute a process. It is also used to move/switch between different displays of a
parameter being edited when there’s a right-hand arrow shown on the display.
¨
7.2.10 INC/NO & DEC/YES
These switches are used to move/scroll through and select parameters to be edited or to enter alpha-numeric values
and characters for other parameters, when held down these switches are repetitive accelerating. Alternatively they
are also used to select “Y/N” when prompted on the display in some sub-menu’s.
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7.2 Secondary Switch Functions (Cont’d)
7.2.11 EXIT/SAVE
When at the main Edit Menu, pressing this switch will exit the Edit Mode.
When in one of the Edit Mode’s six sub-menu’s, pressing this switch will return to the main Edit Menu.
When in the PRST, SONG or one of the SET0 - SET9 Operating Modes, pressing an instant access switch will cause
the LED above this switch to flash, indicating that the preset has been altered. There are now four options, all of
which cause the LED above this switch to stop flashing.
1. Press the appropriate instant access switch(es) to return the preset to its original/stored state.
2. Press the active preset switch to recall and transmit its original/stored data. This can’t be done with the Global
Preset since there’s no active preset switch when it’s selected.
3. Select a different preset, either within the same bank/song or in another bank/song, this will discard the altered
instant access switch settings and recall/transmit the new preset data.
4. Press this switch to update/save the preset with the new/altered ON/OFF instant access switch settings.
!!! ATTENTION !!!
The following applies only when in the SONG or one of the SET0 – SET9 Operating Modes. Since a song is a custom
bank of the FX1’s regular presets, which can be (and probably are) used in other songs, the FX1 will first check to
see if the preset being updated is used in another song. If the preset is not used in another song, the FX1 will
proceed with updating the preset at its current location. If the preset is used in another song, the FX1 will first copy
and save the entire preset in the next available/blank preset location. Then it will make the necessary instant access
switch ON/OFF status change(s) and finally it will update the song with the new preset location. The FX1 will
automatically rename the new preset in the following format.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
• e and f on the display indicate the song number (01 to 99).
• h indicates the preset number (1 to 6 or 0 for the Global Preset) in the song.
• j and k indicate the bank number (01 to 21) that the original preset is located in.
• m refers to the original preset (1 to 6 or 0 for the Global Preset) in the above bank.
If there are no more blank preset locations, pressing this switch to update the preset will not do anything and the LED
above this switch will continue to flash, indicating and confirming that there are no more blank presets available.
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8. Rear Panel
8.1.1 XPDL:1
This is a standard ¼” TRS (stereo) jack and it allows an external expression pedal (or a switch) to be connected to
the FX1. The ring and sleeve of this jack are internally protected with resistors so that a short circuit will not damage
the port input circuitry and/or the FX1. Pedal resistance isn’t critical, but please see Sections 17.1.1 to 17.1.3 : Cables
and Section 16.5 : XP1 – XP4 Port Calibration more information on using this jack.
8.1.2 XPDL:2
Same as above.
8.1.3 XPDL:3
Same as above.
8.1.4 XPDL:4
Same as above.
8.1.5 S11:S12
This is a standard ¼” TRS (stereo) jack and it allows two external “normally open momentary switches” to be
connected in parallel to the FX1’s S11 (tip – sleeve) and S12 (ring – sleeve) instant access switches. The purpose
of this jack is to provide the option of positioning one or two footswitches where it is more convenient for certain
things such as a tap tempo switch, a hold switch... Please see Sections 17.1.4 to 17.1.7 : Cables for more information
on using this jack.
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8. Rear Panel (Cont’d)
8.1.6 9VAC:0.4A
This is a standard 5.5mm/2.1mm barrel jack and it allows the FX1 to receive power. The FX1’s power requirements
are 9Vac @ 400mA (0.4A). The power adapter shipped with the FX1 is capable of supplying 9Vac @ 1000mA which
is more than enough to power two FX1’s (in a Master/Slave Loop).
receiving phantom power via the MIDI IN, the MIDI OUT or the TO RACK jack – the FX1 should
receive power from ONLY ONE source !!!
8.1.7 MIDI IN
This is a standard 5-pin DIN jack and it allows the FX1 to receive MIDI information and commands such as control
change, program change and system exclusive messages from external MIDI devices such as a sequencer, a
computer, another FX1 or another MIDI footcontroller (see Section 16.7, Section 18 and Section 19 for details on its
use). Pins 1 and 3 can provide phantom power to the FX1 from another device or a remote location.
8.1.8 MIDI OUT
This is a standard 5-pin DIN jack and it allows the FX1 to transmit MIDI information/commands to external MIDI
devices. Pins 1 and 3 can provide phantom power to the FX1 from another device or a remote location.
!!! Do NOT use this jack if the FX1 is
8.1.9 TO RACK
This is a heavy-duty (locking) 5-pin (male) XLR jack and it allows the FX1 to transmit MIDI information/commands to
external MIDI devices. Pinout - [1] 9Vac [2] n/c [3] 9Vac [4] MIDI Out Pin#4 [5] MIDI Out Pin #5 [S] Shield/Ground.
Please note that the MIDI OUT jack transmits a continuous MIDI system exclusive message for use when two or
more FX1’s are connected in a Master/Slave Loop. If this continuous stream of MIDI data causes noise in a receiving
MIDI device, using the TO RACK jack will eradicate the noise because it doesn’t transmit the above stream of data.
8.1.10 EXPANDER
This is a heavy-duty (locking) 5-pin (male) XLR jack and it allows the FX1 to communicate with and supply power to
the optional instant access switch expander.
!!! Only connect the FX1 and expander when the FX1 is OFF !!!
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9. Power On
When power is first applied to the FX1, all of its LED’s (and those on the expander – if connected) will remain OFF
and the display will show the current software version number for two seconds, as follows (the actual version number
may differ depending on when this manual was published).
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
The display will then go blank (very briefly) before starting the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) display test which is
comprised of an “all pixels on” character scrolling from left to right, across the display. As the “all pixels on” character
scrolls from left to right, the following message will be left behind.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
At which point all the FX1 LED’s (and those on the expander – if connected) will turn ON for two seconds.
After the two second LED test is over, the FX1 will automatically return to the operating mode, bank/song and preset
that was active when it was last powered off, whether intentional or not…
To immediately abort the above tests, simply press any switch on the FX1.
When an FX1 is setup for the SLAV Operating Mode, the following message …
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
… will be displayed after the above tests have finished if the slaved FX1 is not properly connected to a master FX1.
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10. Edit Mode
To enter the Edit Mode, press and hold the EDIT/2nd switch for 1 second. All the LED's will turn OFF, except the
EDIT/2
As the display suggests…
• Press the COPY (P1) switch to enter the Copy Menu.
• Press the MIDI (P2) switch to enter the MIDI Menu.
• Press the NAMES (P3) switch to enter the Names Menu.
• Press the PRESET (P4) switch to enter the Preset Menu.
• Press the SONGSET (P5) switch to enter the SongSet Menu.
• Press the UTILITY (P6) switch to enter the Utility Menu.
• Press the EXIT / SAVE (EDIT / 2
The Copy Menu allows copying entire presets, banks of presets, songs, setlists and instant access switches from one
location to another.
The MIDI Menu allows defining global parameters such as; the MIDI channel that the FX1 will respond to incoming
MIDI messages on, the starting number used when displaying program change messages, the control change and
program change messages that each instant access switch will transmit, the control change message each internal
control change will transmit, the expression pedal ports control change settings and the custom hex/MIDI messages
of each instant access switch.
The Names Menu allows custom names to be created/edited for each song, setlist, MIDI channel, instant access
switch and internal control change.
The Preset Menu allows selecting a preset, assigning it a custom 13 character name and up to 16 program change
messages for it to transmit. The on/off status of the instant access switches and internal control changes, determining
how the expression pedal ports will function when used in the preset and assigning a custom hex/MIDI message to
be sent as part of the preset are also handled in this menu.
The SongSet Menu allows for the FX1’s regular presets to be organized in a custom bank to create a song. Multiple
songs can then be arranged into a collection of customs banks (each bank represents a song) to create a setlist.
The Utility Menu allows configuring the FX1’s general functionality by selecting its operating mode and defining how
the preset switches, instant access switches and expression ports will function when used. Its sub-menu’s also
provide access to the user data/dump, delete/restore, expression pedal port calibration and firmware update utilities.
Please note that when in one of the Edit Mode’s six sub-menu’s (listed above), some of the switches will not perform
their (secondary) function until a complete number has been entered for the parameter being edited – this is normal.
nd
LED and the P1 to P6 LED's which will start flashing. The display will show (the following Edit Menu).
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
nd
) switch to exit the Edit Mode.
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11. Copy Menu
The Copy Menu allows copying entire presets, banks of presets, songs, setlists and instant access switches from one
location to another.
11.1 Preset Copy
This sub-menu allows copying a preset from one preset location to another.
From the Edit Menu, press the COPY switch one time, the display will show.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
• b, c and f on the display indicate the preset (and the bank it’s in) that is going to be copied.
• l, m and p on the display indicate the destination preset location (and the bank it’s in) to copy to.
The LED above the following switches will turn ON indicating the switches can be used while in this sub-menu.
EXIT/SAVE Press to return to the Edit Menu (nothing will be copied).
SELECT Press to move the cursor from left to right (and back) between the banks and presets.
NAMES Press/hold to display the user assigned name for a preset and release to return to the above
display format. When the cursor is at display locations b, c or f, pressing/holding this switch will
display the name assigned to the preset that is going to be copied. When the cursor is at display
locations l, m or p, pressing/holding this switch will display the name currently assigned to the
destination preset that is going to be copied to.
COPY Press to advance to the next Copy sub-menu (nothing will be copied). The LED above this switch
will always flash as a reminder that a Copy sub-menu is selected.
0 – 9 Press one switch to enter a preset number between 1 & 6 or 0 (for the Global Preset) and press
two switches to enter a bank number between 01 & 21. When the cursor is at one of the preset
locations the LED above switches 7, 8 and 9 will turn OFF since there are no such presets.
ENTER ¨ Press to begin the copying process. While the FX1 is copying a preset, the display will show.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
After the copying process is complete the display will be updated with the bank and preset numbers that were shown
when first entering this sub-menu.
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11.2 Bank Copy
This sub-menu allows copying an entire bank of six presets to another bank.
From the Edit Menu, press the COPY switch two times, the display will show.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
• e and f on the display indicate the bank that is going to be copied.
• o and p on the display indicate the destination bank location to copy to.
The LED above the following switches will turn ON indicating the switches can be used while in this sub-menu.
SELECT Press to move the cursor between the two banks.
EXIT/SAVE Press to return to the Edit Menu (nothing will be copied).
0 – 9 Press two switches to enter a bank number between 01 & 21.
COPY Press to advance to the next Copy sub-menu (nothing will be copied). The LED above this switch
will always flash as a reminder that a Copy sub-menu is selected.
ENTER ¨ Press to begin the copying process. While the FX1 is copying a bank, the display will show.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
After the copying process is complete the display will be updated with the bank numbers that were shown when first
entering this sub-menu.
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11.3 Song Copy
This sub-menu allows copying a song from one song location to another.
From the Edit Menu, press the COPY switch three times, the display will show.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
• e and f on the display indicate the song that is going to be copied.
• o and p on the display indicate the destination song location to copy to.
The LED above the following switches will turn ON indicating the switches can be used while in this sub-menu.
SELECT Press to move the cursor between the two songs.
EXIT/SAVE Press to return to the Edit Menu (nothing will be copied).
0 – 9 Press two switches to enter a song number between 01 & 99.
NAMES Press/hold to display the user assigned name for a song and release to return to the above display
format. When the cursor is at display locations e or f, pressing/holding this switch will display the
name assigned to the song that is going to be copied. When the cursor is at display locations o or
p, pressing/holding this switch will display the name currently assigned to the destination song that
is going to be copied to.
COPY Press to advance to the next Copy sub-menu (nothing will be copied). The LED above this switch
will always flash as a reminder that a Copy sub-menu is selected.
ENTER ¨ Press to begin the copying process. While the FX1 is copying a song, the display will show.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
After the copying process is complete the display will be updated with the song numbers that were shown when first
entering this sub-menu.
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11.4 Setlist Copy
This sub-menu allows copying a setlist from one setlist location to another.
From the Edit Menu, press the COPY switch four times, the display will show.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
• e on the display indicates the setlist that is going to be copied.
• p on the display indicates the destination setlist location to copy to.
The LED above the following switches will turn ON indicating the switches can be used while in this sub-menu.
SELECT Press to move the cursor between the two setlists.
EXIT/SAVE Press to return to the Edit Menu (nothing will be copied).
0 – 9 Press one switch to enter a setlist number between 0 & 9.
NAMES Press/hold to display the user assigned name for a setlist and release to return to the above display
format. When the cursor is at display location e, pressing/holding this switch will display the name
assigned to the setlist that is going to be copied. When the cursor is at display location p,
pressing/holding this switch will display the name currently assigned to the destination setlist that is
going to be copied to.
COPY Press to advance to the next Copy sub-menu (nothing will be copied). The LED above this switch
will always flash as a reminder that a Copy sub-menu is selected.
ENTER ¨ Press to begin the copying process. While the FX1 is copying a setlist, the display will show.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
After the copying process is complete the display will be updated with the setlist numbers that were shown when first
entering this sub-menu.
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11.5 Instant Access Switch Copy
This sub-menu allows copying the MIDI data of one instant access switch to another instant access switch.
From the Edit Menu, press the COPY switch five times, the display will show.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
• e and f on the display indicate the instant access switch that is going to be copied.
• o and p on the display indicate the destination instant access switch location to copy to.
The LED above the following switches will turn ON indicating the switches can be used while in this sub-menu.
EXIT/SAVE Press to return to the Edit Menu (nothing will be copied).
SELECT Press to move the cursor between the two instant access switches.
0 – 9 Press two switches to enter an instant access switch number between 01 & 24.
COPY Press to return to the first Copy sub-menu (nothing will be copied). The LED above this switch will
always flash as a reminder that a Copy sub-menu is selected.
NAMES Press/hold to display the user assigned name for an instant access switch and release to return to
the above display format. When the cursor is at display locations e or f, pressing/holding this switch
will display the name assigned to the instant access switch that is going to be copied. When the
cursor is at display locations o or p, pressing/holding this switch will display the name currently
assigned to the destination instant access switch that is going to be copied to.
ENTER ¨ Press to begin the copying process. While the FX1 is copying an instant access switch, the display
will show.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
After the copying process is complete the display will be updated with the instant access switch numbers that were
shown when first entering this sub-menu.
S1
-
S12
Only instant access switches
S1
-
S12
instant access switch
copying instant access switch
there is a pre-existing custom 16 byte hex message at the destination instant access switch location, it’ll be deleted.
too
S13
are capable of sending a custom 16 byte hex message. So if/when copying
S13
-
S24
the custom 16 byte hex message can’t be copied. Alternatively, when
-
S24
too S1 -
S12
there is no custom 16 byte hex message to be copied, so if
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12. MIDI Menu
The MIDI Menu allows defining global parameters such as; the MIDI channel that the FX1 will respond to incoming
MIDI messages on, the starting number used when displaying program change messages, the control change and
program change messages that each instant access switch will transmit, the control change message each internal
control change will transmit, the expression pedal ports control change settings and the custom hex/MIDI messages
of each instant access switch.
12.1 Receive MIDI Channel
This sub-menu allows setting the MIDI channel that incoming MIDI control change and/or program change messages
must be on in order for banks/songs and presets to be selected from a remote device (such as a sequencer) when
the FX1 is in the PRST, SONG and SET0 – SET9 Operating Modes.
From the Edit Menu, press the MIDI switch one time, the display will show.
a e c d b p f g h i j k l m n o
• o and p indicate the MIDI channel that the FX1 will receive MIDI messages on (01 to 16 or NO).
The LED above the following switches will turn ON indicating the switches can be used while in this sub-menu.
EXIT/SAVE Press to return to the Edit Menu, any changes made while in this sub-menu will automatically be
saved.
MIDI Press to advance to the next MIDI sub-menu, any changes made while in this sub-menu will
automatically be saved. The LED above this switch will always flash as a reminder that a MIDI submenu is selected.
0 – 9 Press two switches to enter a MIDI channel number between 01 & 16 or 99 to stop the FX1 from
responding to incoming MIDI control change and/or program change messages. Entering 99 will
display NO instead of 99.
NAMES Press/hold to display the user assigned name for the MIDI channel and release to return to the
above display format. When NO is displayed for the MIDI channel, the LED above this switch will
turn OFF since there is no name to view.
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