MFC-101 Puts Total Control at your Feet

The Fractal Audio Systems MFC-101 Mark III is a powerful, versatile, easy-to-use MIDI foot controller designed for use with the Axe-Fx II, Axe-Fx Ultra, Axe-Fx Standard, and/or any other MIDI devices. It puts total control at your feet, with capabilities that musicians have come to demand from a best-in-class foot controller, plus innovations that put the MFC-101 in a class by itself. In comparison to the previous model, the Mark II uses a rugged EtherCon connector instead of a standard RJ-45 port.

Just as the Axe-Fx is known for its simple, intuitive user interface, the MFC-101 Midi Foot Controller is impressively easy-to-use. It is virtually plug and play, requiring you only to select an Axe-Fx model and specify how you’re connected. Up to 384 Preset numbers/names appear on the floor, and effect switching functions are easy to set up and customize. Artists and owners frequently tell us that this is the easiest pedalboard they’ve ever set up.

Besides being easy to use, the MFC-101 MIDI Foot Controller is powerful and flexible, with deep control options for today’s modern rig. Preset switches can send program changes, CCs, and even custom midi data. Instant Access switches offer the ability to handle typical control change functions but likewise offer program change and custom MIDI data capabilities. Expression pedals and external switches with global controls can also be set up with different MIDI capabilities for each preset.

Tough Hardware and Great Connectivity

The MFC-101 is built to last, ready for life on the road and on-stage performance. The Mark III features three different ways to connect to your Axe-Fx or other rig.

• 16-gauge powder-coated steel chassis.
• Twenty-one quiet SOLID STATE SWITCHES in 3 ergonomic tiers
• Patented SSS switches are easy to operate, very quiet, and far more failure resistant than traditional footswitches.
• Twenty one bi-color LEDs
• Brilliant 20-character transflective display
• Jacks for 4 expression pedals and 4 external switches
• RJ-45 Port (Ethernet) to connect an Axe-Fx II (provide Phantom power
• FASLINK port to connect an Axe-Fx II over a single XLR cable.
• 7-pin MIDI out supports phantom powering the unit

With incredibly flexible MIDI capabilities and a range of connector options, the MFC-101 is designed to fit diverse needs. A typical scenario is depicted below, showing the MFC-101 with 4 external expression pedals and 4 external switches conntected to an Axe-Fx II by a CAT5 cable (which also powers the MFC-101 without the need for an AC adapter.) An outboard MIDI device is connected at the THRU port of the Axe-Fx II, which is itself connected via USB to a computer for simultaneous editing/recording. Nearly infinite possible scenarios exist; see the MFC-101 or Axe-Fx II user manuals for more ideas.

Designed Specifically for the Axe-Fx

Axe-Fx Mode makes the MFC-101 the best and easiest way to control a Fractal Audio Systems Axe-Fx II, Ultra, or Standard. The two units are virtually plug and play. Total customization is of course also possible, for those with specific creative requirements.

Axe-Fx mode offers hassle-free setup, smart preset integration, easy FX control, dedicated tap tempo (with matching LED flash), tuner display on the floor, and much more. You will never need to enter or sync preset — they are read and displayed dynamically each time you stomp, and update automatically if you change them on the Axe-Fx.

The MFC-101 also automatically configures itself to control effect blocks without messy manual CC# mapping. Simply select switch functions from an easy list (ex: “Drive 1 Bypass”) and the MFC-101 does the rest. What’s more, the bi-color LEDs dynamically show whether the effects behind each switch assignment are ON, OFF, or “not present,” reading this information from the Axe-Fx at the moment the preset loads. If you’re using the Axe-Fx II, the MFC-101 offers a dedicated LOOPER CONTROL MODE allowing access to all Looper functions in a single layout with no programming required.

Get the Manual, Firmware and More

Visit our Support Section to download the MFC-101 MIDI Foot Controller Manual and firmware. In the tradition established by our Axe-Fx line of products, the MFC-101 undergoes continual improvement. Free firmware releases add fixes, features, and more.