stompbox mode questions

I've been running my FSM432 in "preset mode" because that's the most similar to how I've run my previous gear. But I'd like to experiment with "stompbox mode" just for the sake of trying it. I wont have access to my rig for a couple weeks and so I hope you can help answer some basic questions to help get my brain on track until then...

- If I understand it correctly, the A-B-C-D switches will call up Clean, Crunch, Lead, and Ultra, respectively. Is it possible to "preset" unique EQ/Gain/Volume settings for each channel? How?

- Is it possible to change the modulation TYPE with the FSM (in SB mode)? For example, switch from Chorus to Phaser? I'm thinking the answer is no, but hey I've been wrong before.

- What dictates the fx parameters? The current knob settings? Is it possible to "preset" unique effect setting on each channel?

Thanks for your help!

Sorry you got left hanging here on this one. Have you had a chance to play around, yet? I'll check things out at our next rehearsal and see what's up.

I haven't had the chance yet, but it looks like I will this weekend.

One of many things I liked about my old G-System, is that it's a hybrid of the two FSM's modes... you have your presets but you can also pull any effect in/out of the chain at any time. For example, I like a bit of delay on most of my presets, but I would switch it off for a tight ending of a song. The G allowed me to do that. Or, turn off the chorus, etc. Instead of having separate presets for those moments. Ya know?

I'll report back once I get the chance to experiment with the stompbox mode, but yeah if you get the chance let me know how it goes. Thx!

would be interested too... as I am essentially running my FSM432 in "preset mode"
The features you mentionned are those I practice with my Axe FXII, in the same way as the G.


To be able to "preset" unique EQ/Gain/Volume settings for each channel, I think you need to have the capability to store the presets... Can we store the A, B, C, D channels as presets ? I don't think so.

gravydb wrote:I've been running my FSM432 in "preset mode" because that's the most similar to how I've run my previous gear. But I'd like to experiment with "stompbox mode" just for the sake of trying it. I wont have access to my rig for a couple weeks and so I hope you can help answer some basic questions to help get my brain on track until then...

- If I understand it correctly, the A-B-C-D switches will call up Clean, Crunch, Lead, and Ultra, respectively. Is it possible to "preset" unique EQ/Gain/Volume settings for each channel? How?

- Is it possible to change the modulation TYPE with the FSM (in SB mode)? For example, switch from Chorus to Phaser? I'm thinking the answer is no, but hey I've been wrong before.

- What dictates the fx parameters? The current knob settings? Is it possible to "preset" unique effect setting on each channel?

Thanks for your help!

1 = Yes, In stompbox mode when you make a changes the channel's setting are stored automagically and requires no intervention.
2 = Only with an expression pedal or from the front panel can you change the modulation type. the pedal range is divided in to 4 sections for chorus/flange/pase/vibe (Not a very useful feature but with an advanced MIDI controller that can send multiple CC changes per button press, one could get creative.
3 = Current Knob settings yes... no it is not able to have a preset per channel...

One thing that I think sucks about the stompbox mode is that tap tempo is unavailable in stomp box mode and is also not available via expression input either as delay/vibe tempo is a 0-127 number and is calculated by the FSM432 and translated into a CC number to be sent to the head.

I have been running in stompbox mode but have a Zoom G3 in the amp loop, i am able to get away with a single patch in the Zoom and am using it for Flanger,Phaser,Delay,Octaver,volume boost. FSM is handling channel, delay, chorus and boost duties.  I've had a few gigs with this setup and it's working quite well. I love the tones from my Grand Meister. I am thinking of grabbing a used POD HD500 and run it in 4CM for both MIDI control and FX. This might make a slightly cleaner setup than I have going on currently with the FSM, G3, expression, wah, tuner. I have a friend that runs a POD HD500X this way with his Grand Meister 36 and it is working well for him.

Patch mode has proven frustrating live, I can get by at rehearsal with a group of patches but find I don't have quite enough control to make it really kick ass live. And I wish that the Boost function was a presettable volume boost instead of a preset gain boost.

Nate