What is an FRFR speaker cabinet?

In the world of music amplification, FRFR amplifiers stand out for their ability to faithfully reproduce a source signal. Behind the acronym “FRFR,” which stands for “Full Range Flat Response”, lies a compelling concept for musicians who use modeling of various devices (amplifiers, microphones, speakers). Unlike traditional amplifiers, FRFR units do not alter the audio signal, preserving its sonic integrity. What is an FRFR amp? Why are they attracting so much interest among guitarists?

What Exactly Does an FRFR Amplifier Represent?

What does FRFR stand for?

The acronym FRFR stands for “Full Range Flat Response”. An FRFR amplifier has the unique characteristic of being able to reproduce the entire audio signal without coloration or distortion introduced by the device itself. Unlike traditional amps, an FRFR amp doesn’t introduce any coloration to the original audio signal. These speakers are ideal for guitarists who heavily use amplifier, microphone, or other device modeling (or emulation).

Different FRFR devices

In this article, we will discuss both FRFR amplifiers and FRFR speakers. Both types of devices are available on the market, distinguishing them by their “Full Range Flat Response” (FRFR) feature. Remember, the speaker emits the sound, while the amplifier amplifies the signal. Typically, an amplifier sends the signal to speakers (recall the principle of a Hi-Fi amplifier sending signals to passive speakers). This describes active devices (capable of electrically powering other devices) versus passive devices (without direct connection for electrical power.) An amplifier is active if it manages the electrical input, whereas speakers are passive as they don’t directly manage electricity; they are powered by the amplifier.

However, there are combo amplifiers. Manufacturers have created combo amplifiers, which integrate both amplifier and speaker functionalities into a single unit. If you do not know the principle and operation of a speaker, please read first our article.

FRFR Amplifier vs. Traditional Amplifier

These two types of amplifiers differ significantly in how they reproduce the audio signal. A traditional amplifier colors the audio signal to create a specific tone associated with a music style or a musical instrument. These amplifiers are designed to emphasize certain frequency ranges. Consequently, you can find amplifiers specifically tailored for electric guitars, basses, or synthesizers. By example, metal guitarists are known to focus exclusively specific amplifier types because they align with their desired sonic characteristics.

As previously mentioned, FRFR amps, conversely, focus on not affecting the overall frequency spectrum of a musical instrument. They offer a flat response, without modifying the presence of certain frequency bands. When used without any effects processing upfront, an FRFR amplifier’s signal sounds clean, neutral, and flat. FRFR devices can be considered monitoring speakers, but with the power output suitable for live performances or rehearsals.

For audiophiles, it’s important to note that FRFR speakers do not precisely offer a completely uniform flat response. Slight variations occur, even though they’re often negligible to the human ear, discernible only via dedicated plugin spectrum analyzers.

Why Would a Guitarist Choose an Uncolored Amplifier?

Amplifier modeling, sometimes referred to as amplifier emulation, is widely used by musicians playing electric instruments, especially guitarists and bassists. We’re enthusiasts of amplifier modeling, which relies heavily on impulse responses. Manufacturers of effects pedals and processors understand this, incorporating built-in amplifier, speaker, microphone, and preamp mods. Users of BOSS, HeadRush, or Zoom processors will find readily available modeling modules tailored to specific brands and product lines. Impulse Response (IR) loaders are another source for these modeling options.

If you use amp modeling on a Line 6 Helix, for example, and then route the signal through a traditional amplifier, the resulting signal is influenced by both the models selected on your effects processor and your amplifier. In short, you cannot obtain the pure timbre of the models because your own amplifier alters the signal.

Conversely, if the same process is repeated, but replacing the traditional amplifier with an FRFR amplifier, you obtain the exact characteristics of the processor’s models without further alteration—preserving the integrity of the modeled signal.

This rationale might appear clear to some and obscure to others! We’ve all known musicians who either don’t understand or are not wholly convinced of the advantages of FRFR. Others simply plug in and play, failing to fully grasp the possibilities afforded by their equipment. It is their prerogative, as we’re all free to determine how we want our audio to sound.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using an FRFR Amp

Frequently Asked Questions on FRFR Devices

Is there a specific way to connect an FRFR speaker/amplifier?

Absolutely not! Connections are just as straightforward as with standard speakers. Simply plug and play as with standard equipment.

Are there FRFR speakers/amplifiers differentiated by instrument type?

The design goal of an FRFR speaker/amplifier is to not color the audio signal’s frequency bands. Consequently, these devices work well with all instruments. Manufacturers have targeted the guitar and bass markets in their marketing, primarily because these represent the most focused areas of demand. Nevertheless, an FRFR unit can also be used perfectly well with a mandolin or electric violin.

Does an FRFR amplifier have the usual options offered by a standard amplifier?

This depends on the model, but most offer sought-after features. Examples include:

• Separate jack and/or XLR inputs,
• A ground switch to prevent ground loop issues
• XLR output for connection to a mixing board
• Bluetooth Connectivity
• and numerous other options

Which FRFR Speakers or Amplifiers Should I Choose?

FRFR speakers are increasingly popular, with new products emerging annually. However, the market isn’t as abundant as for standard amplifiers. Currently, HeadRush stands out with several active FRFR speaker models priced attractively. Additionally, given the company’s expertise in effect processors, this offers a logical synergy. Other manufacturers, like QSC, Mackie, dB Technologies, EVH, Line6 and their Powercab model, and RCF, offer significant products. We’ve used QSC and HeadRush models extensively and have consistently found them satisfactory.

FRFR amplifiers and speakers deliver a faithful reproduction of the frequency spectrum of musical instruments. They’re the ideal choice for maintaining the integrity of a musician’s modeled sound, crucial for studio recordings, rehearsals, and live performances, particularly for guitarists and bassists desiring the purest expression of modeled amps, microphones, or preamps.

Sources: HeadRush, Line6