Yes, you can use Two Notes Axe Fx together, but the connection method matters

Two Notes Audio Engineering and Fractal Audio's Axe-Fx are separate pieces of gear that can work in the same signal chain. Two Notes makes the Torpedo hardware and software, which processes guitar amp and cabinet sounds. The Axe-Fx is a complete multi-effects processor and amp modeler. You can run them together by sending the Axe-Fx output into Two Notes Torpedo hardware, or by using Two Notes software as a plugin after recording the Axe-Fx output. The setup you choose depends on whether you want to process sound in real time during playing or after recording.

Most players use this combination because they prefer Two Notes' cabinet impulse responses (IRs) or want to layer two different cabinet models for a thicker tone. The Axe-Fx already includes its own cabinet modeling, so adding Two Notes is optional and depends on your tone preferences and whether you need the extra processing power.

Key Takeaways

  • Two Notes Torpedo hardware connects to your Axe-Fx via audio cable from the Axe-Fx output to the Torpedo input, letting you process the Axe-Fx sound through Two Notes cab simulation in real time.
  • Two Notes software plugins work after you record the Axe-Fx, so you can layer cabinet modeling on top of the Axe-Fx amp models during mixing without hardware.
  • Running both units together uses more CPU power and adds latency if you use software, so test your setup before relying on it for live performance.
  • The Axe-Fx already includes cabinet modeling, so using Two Notes on top of it is optional and depends on whether you prefer Two Notes' sound character.
  • USB connection from Axe-Fx to your computer lets you record the raw Axe-Fx signal and process it with Two Notes software later during mixing.

Connecting Torpedo Hardware to Your Axe-Fx

If you own a Two Notes Torpedo hardware unit (such as the Torpedo Live or Torpedo Studio), you can connect it directly to your Axe-Fx using a standard audio cable. Run a cable from one of the Axe-Fx main outputs into the Torpedo's input. The Axe-Fx will send its signal through the Torpedo, which will then explore Two Notes' cabinet and microphone modeling on top of the Axe-Fx's own amp and effects.

This setup works for live performance because everything happens in real time with minimal latency. You control the Torpedo's settings using its front panel or connected footswitch. The Axe-Fx remains your primary effects processor and amp modeler, and the Torpedo acts as a final stage that colors the tone. This is useful if you prefer Two Notes' cabinet sound over the Axe-Fx's built-in cab models, or if you want to layer two different cabinet simulations for a thicker tone.

Using Two Notes Software After Recording

If you record the Axe-Fx output into your computer via USB or audio interface, you can load Two Notes software plugins (like Torpedo Remote or Torpedo Studio software) inside your digital audio workstation (DAW). This lets you process the recorded Axe-Fx signal with Two Notes modeling without needing hardware.

This approach gives you flexibility because you can try different Two Notes settings during mixing without committing to them during recording. You can also undo or change the Two Notes processing later. The downside is that this only works for recording and mixing, not for live performance, and it requires a computer with enough processing power to run the plugin alongside your DAW.

Why You Might Stack Both Units

The Axe-Fx already includes amp modeling, effects, and cabinet simulation, so adding Two Notes is not necessary for basic tone shaping. However, some players prefer Two Notes' cabinet impulse responses (IRs) or microphone modeling over what the Axe-Fx offers. Two Notes has a large library of real amp and cabinet recordings, and some players find the sound more realistic or more suited to their style.

Stacking both units also lets you blend two different cabinet models. You might use the Axe-Fx's cab model for one layer of tone and the Two Notes Torpedo for another, creating a hybrid sound that neither unit produces alone. This is a creative choice rather than a necessary one, and it works best when you turn off one of the cabinet models to avoid phase cancellation.

Latency and CPU Considerations

Using Two Notes hardware adds almost no latency because it processes sound in real time. Using Two Notes software as a plugin adds latency depending on your audio interface buffer size and computer speed. For live performance, this latency can make playing feel sluggish, so hardware is the better choice if you need to play in real time.

If you use Two Notes software during recording and mixing, latency is not a concern because you are not playing along with the processed sound. However, running the Axe-Fx and Two Notes software at the same time uses more CPU power, so you may need to freeze tracks or bounce audio to keep your DAW responsive and prevent dropouts.

Setting Up the Audio Path

For hardware connection: Axe-Fx main output → audio cable → Two Notes Torpedo input → Torpedo output → audio interface or mixer input. Make sure the Axe-Fx output level is not so hot that it clips the Torpedo input. Start with the Axe-Fx output at a moderate level and adjust the Torpedo input gain until the signal sits in the green zone on the Torpedo's meter.

For software connection: Record the Axe-Fx output into your DAW as an audio track. Once recorded, insert the Two Notes plugin on that track. Adjust the plugin settings to taste. You can also send the Axe-Fx output to a bus and insert the Two Notes plugin on the bus if you want to process multiple tracks with the same settings without duplicating the plugin.

Testing Before You Rely on It

If you plan to use this setup for live performance, test it thoroughly before a gig. Play through the Axe-Fx and Torpedo together and listen for any unwanted noise, phase cancellation (thin or hollow tone), or latency. Phase issues can happen when two cab models process the same signal, so you may need to adjust the Torpedo's phase switch or turn off one of the cab models to fix the problem.

For recording, do a test take with both units running and listen to the playback. Make sure the tone is what you expected and that no clipping or distortion happened during the recording. If the tone is not right, try adjusting the Axe-Fx output level, the Torpedo input gain, or the Two Notes plugin settings one at a time so you know which change made the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need Two Notes if my Axe-Fx already has cabinet modeling?

No, the Axe-Fx cabinet models are complete and usable on their own. Two Notes is optional and only worth adding if you prefer the sound of Two Notes IRs or want to experiment with layering two different cabinet models for a thicker tone.

Will using Two Notes with my Axe-Fx cause phase problems?

It can if both units are processing the same cabinet model. Try turning off the Axe-Fx cabinet model and using only the Two Notes Torpedo, or vice versa. If you want to use both, check the Torpedo's phase switch and flip it if the tone sounds thin or hollow.

Can I use Two Notes software and hardware at the same time?

Technically yes, but it is not practical. Running both would double-process the signal and likely cause phase issues and tone problems. Pick one or the other: hardware for live playing, software for recording and mixing.

What audio cable do I need to connect the Axe-Fx to the Torpedo?

A standard quarter-inch TS (unbalanced) or XLR (balanced) audio cable works, depending on which outputs and inputs your Axe-Fx and Torpedo have. Check your unit manuals to see which connectors are available, then use a matching cable.

Does the Axe-Fx output need to be mono or stereo for the Torpedo?

The Torpedo accepts both mono and stereo input. If your Axe-Fx is set to stereo output, you can send both channels to the Torpedo, or send only one channel if you prefer mono. Check the Torpedo manual for which input jacks to use for your setup.