TM Axe-II Waitlist Update

[Avenyr]

Do Tone Merchants have the GT800FX in stock already? Please post our experience and opinions here on this amp.

Thanks

They don't have it in stock yet. They were supposed to have started taking orders for it about a week ago. Those on the AxeFX II waiting list were offered the amp a bit early so we could grab one quickly to go along with our Axe II order.

I was given an ETA of 4 weeks after purchase. I'm thinking I'll get mine around late August/early September if the second batch of Axe FX II's has been fulfilled by then and later if not.

I see Mark Day has an Atomic 50/50. I wonder if he got a chance to try the Matrix and if he decided to choose to Atomic over the Matrix.

 

[DADA]

Do Tone Merchants have the GT800FX in stock already? Please post our experience and opinions here on this amp.

Thanks

They don't have it in stock yet. They were supposed to have started taking orders for it about a week ago. Those on the AxeFX II waiting list were offered the amp a bit early so we could grab one quickly to go along with our Axe II order.

I was given an ETA of 4 weeks after purchase. I'm thinking I'll get mine around late August/early September if the second batch of Axe FX II's has been fulfilled by then and later if not.

I see Mark Day has an Atomic 50/50. I wonder if he got a chance to try the Matrix and if he decided to choose to Atomic over the Matrix.

I do not think Mark tried the Matrix. But if I am wrong he can happily chime in. I would love to hear an independent a/b test. This because the Matrix motivates VHT and Fryette owners to sell their 2/50/2. Call it the clash of the titans.

Here in Europe the GT800FX will win anyway. Here the Matrix is half the price of the Atomic.

Can some guys go to TM and test both amps under the same conditions? That would be very helpfull.

Thanks

 

[moab]

I'm number 7 on the second batch. If only I could time travel to the future so I could get my hands on it, all would be right... Where the hell is Marty Mcfly and that DeLorean with the Flux capacitor!

 

[brianj]

^^^ One place behind me!

 

[fredster]

Any update on the update?

 

[dudemanguy]

Nothing against TM, but I think there is no telling when they will get their next shipment ( I was told that I was looking at 2 weeks and by the time FAS comes back from vacation it will have been 4 weeks). How about this theory, FAS and TM are both selling to the same market, and FAS makes more money if they sell direct instead of having to pay TM a commission. Meaning that FAS is likely in no hurry to send units to TM. FAS has shown this behavior already by selling units at full price to "line jumpers". To make matters worse for us, they appear to be servicing their own waiting list in front of TM.

Hopefully as soon as I post this, TM will announce that the next shipment just arrived (fingers crossed)!

 

[fredster]

True dat, nothing against TM. I believe they have been acting in good faith based on info they got from Fractal. I'm just curious, I've heard "expecting some this week" a couple times now. I honestly don't mind waiting if I know how long it will be.

 

[Avenyr]

I don't mind waiting. I just find how Fractal handles its stock is unacceptable. The Tone Merchants' projected 60 days statement is irrelevant at this point. The time has expired since. Only 12 units have been delivered to the TM list so far. Fractal has clearly shown that they have the stock to fulfill their engagement with Tone Merchants in a timely manner but chose not to.

They give priority to their own list (Created 3 weeks after the TM List) and line skippers over people who paid a large deposit or the total amount more than 2 months ago to be on the TM List. Those on the TM list who want out cannot simply ask for their money back. No refunds will be issued(Correct me on this if I'm wrong). There IS a way out but it's not simple or even possible for some. Those on the fractal list can simply opt out, no questions asked, no money held hostage, no penalty. I was aware of the policy before sending my payment to TM and so I have nothing against it. I'm just using it as an example.

For a company to create its own black market by scalping its own stock at inflated prices to line skippers is appalling. Are they really in such a bad financial situation ? I shouldn't care but how things are handled bothers me. While my complete payment made in May is being held hostage with no Axe II in sight for a long time, where is my unit?! Oh yeah it is going to that guy who got signed up on the fractal list in July free of charge or to the one who paid the $2600-3000 ten minutes ago. Same goes for everyone else on this list patiently waiting with their money down on deposit.

I can't be the only one thinking that way? That looks like a huge rant but it's my opinion on the situation. As I said before, at least Tone Merchants have the kindness not to discriminate their Canadian customers. I wouldn't have a chance to get one otherwise so I can't really complain about how long it takes...

 

[Axe-Man]

I don't mind waiting. I just find how Fractal handles its stock is unacceptable. The Tone Merchants' projected 60 days statement is irrelevant at this point. The time has expired since. Only 12 units have been delivered to the TM list so far. Fractal has clearly shown that they have the stock to fulfill their engagement with Tone Merchants in a timely manner but chose not to.

They give priority to their own list (Created 3 weeks after the TM List) and line skippers over people who paid a large deposit or the total amount more than 2 months ago to be on the TM List. Those on the TM list who want out cannot simply ask for their money back. No refunds will be issued(Correct me on this if I'm wrong). There IS a way out but it's not simple or even possible for some. Those on the fractal list can simply opt out, no questions asked, no money held hostage, no penalty. I was aware of the policy before sending my payment to TM and so I have nothing against it. I'm just using it as an example.

For a company to create its own black market by scalping its own stock at inflated prices to line skippers is appalling. Are they really in such a bad financial situation ? I shouldn't care but how things are handled bothers me. While my complete payment made in May is being held hostage with no Axe II in sight for a long time, where is my unit?! Oh yeah it is going to that guy who got signed up on the fractal list in July free of charge or to the one who paid the $2600-3000 ten minutes ago. Same goes for everyone else on this list patiently waiting with their money down on deposit.

I can't be the only one thinking that way? That looks like a huge rant but it's my opinion on the situation. As I said before, at least Tone Merchants have the kindness not to discriminate their Canadian customers. I wouldn't have a chance to get one otherwise so I can't really complain about how long it takes...

Wow...this behaviour is pretty damn bad...doesn't surprise me though...not a fan of Cliff's discussions with people on other forums and I'm glad I don't want any of his products.

I've deal with two OS retailers this year that have been absolutely FANTASTIC to deal with. Kingsley and Ceriatone. I couldn't talk more highly of how I was treated and their quick turn around.

 

[ripper117]

I don't mind waiting. I just find how Fractal handles its stock is unacceptable. The Tone Merchants' projected 60 days statement is irrelevant at this point. The time has expired since. Only 12 units have been delivered to the TM list so far. Fractal has clearly shown that they have the stock to fulfill their engagement with Tone Merchants in a timely manner but chose not to.

They give priority to their own list (Created 3 weeks after the TM List) and line skippers over people who paid a large deposit or the total amount more than 2 months ago to be on the TM List. Those on the TM list who want out cannot simply ask for their money back. No refunds will be issued(Correct me on this if I'm wrong). There IS a way out but it's not simple or even possible for some. Those on the fractal list can simply opt out, no questions asked, no money held hostage, no penalty. I was aware of the policy before sending my payment to TM and so I have nothing against it. I'm just using it as an example.

For a company to create its own black market by scalping its own stock at inflated prices to line skippers is appalling. Are they really in such a bad financial situation ? I shouldn't care but how things are handled bothers me. While my complete payment made in May is being held hostage with no Axe II in sight for a long time, where is my unit?! Oh yeah it is going to that guy who got signed up on the fractal list in July free of charge or to the one who paid the $2600-3000 ten minutes ago. Same goes for everyone else on this list patiently waiting with their money down on deposit.

I can't be the only one thinking that way? That looks like a huge rant but it's my opinion on the situation. As I said before, at least Tone Merchants have the kindness not to discriminate their Canadian customers. I wouldn't have a chance to get one otherwise so I can't really complain about how long it takes...

Sadly I am starting to agree with this sentiment. Back on July 13th Fractal Audio posted on there forum

We sent them 15 in the first batch. Another batch will be shipped soon.

I understand they need a vacation. I had assumed after that statement on the 13th they would have shipped the second batch (which in reality is just the second half of the first planned shipment) prior to leaving. Especially considering TM list have put money down.

I hope I am wrong and they did ship prior to leaving.

But there is no doubt the Fractal waiting list which wasn't created till weeks after the TM list is taking a much higher priority to those on the TM list who have put money down.

No one here is expecting special priority due to the money already put down. Just equal priority as the FA waitlist. That has definitely not remotely been the case.

Glancing at the Fractal "unofficial list" more then 50 people have received there coupons. According to posts by FA that list is not accurate and the real number is much higher.

To date TM list has received 15 from what I have read.

I love there products and think they are top notch. My Gen 1 unit was probably one of my all time best guitar gear purchases.

But it does seem the TM waitlist is not high on the FA list. More of an after thought. I am at the end of the second Shipment (which I believe is now called the 4th or 5th shipment). I suspect it will be a long time before I see mine.

I don't blame TM.

 

[Ventura]

All very true... All QUITE disappointing, and by no means directed towards TM. Thing's turned into a 3 ring circus and you know what, personally? Done with it... Was done with it when I was told to go f*ck myself by the man himself (ace customer service skills, ya ponce!). I spoke of problems that 'could be' during the countdown, and was berated for saying as such. And sure as shit, the rollout's been a disaster for those 'normal' folks who 'do' have to rely on waitlists.

Piss poor. Viva Two Notes and their products for the future!!

 

[soundscapes]

I'm starting to wonder if my name will come up on the fractal list before they ship to tonemerchants, (I'm paid in the rest of the first batch) This whole deal is a bummer. I bought an Ultra right when they came out, have loved that company for all the updates, etc... I've lost respect for the business model of fractal to say the least. Still getting the axe2 though as nothing compares to it and I need it. But Jesus Christ, how hard is it to release a product in a normal manner.

 

[Ventura]

I'm starting to wonder if my name will come up on the fractal list before they ship to tonemerchants, (I'm paid in the rest of the first batch) This whole deal is a bummer. I bought an Ultra right when they came out, have loved that company for all the updates, etc... I've lost respect for the business model of fractal to say the least. Still getting the axe2 though as nothing compares to it and I need it. But Jesus Christ, how hard is it to release a product in a normal manner.

Typically, for most companies...not hard. For Fractal, second time around now, second time epic fail.

Whatever...

 

[Avenyr]

Typically, for most companies...not hard. For Fractal, second time around now, second time epic fail.

Whatever...

Forcing everyone through the online store only pressing F5 all day long like a bunch of addicts was a foolish idea.

With their line skipping and their own list, they gave the middle finger and a good laugh at those on the Tone Merchants Waiting List.

If I recall, the Tone Merchants waiting list was a PRE-ORDER list. How come anyone who didn't pre-order is getting their AxeFX II before we did? I paid in full more than 2 months ago. Where's my AxeFX II? How come Fractal is selling those units to people who didn't pre-order ? Artists, business partners I can understand. I can "tolerate" Line jumpers, I don't blame them for taking advantage of the opportunity. I just find it very shady for Fractal to allow it. Everyone else? Unacceptable.

At the moment, being on the Tone Merchants List is a disadvantage. We aren't getting our AxeFX II in priority, other not on this list got one when they shouldn't have and we can't get our money back.

Seriously, if money wasn't involved, there would be no reason to make a fuss about it. We could simply opt out and move on. I don't blame Tone Merchants at all. Fractal must serve those who already paid in priority. Whoever else should wait their turn.

 

[gtr31]

Typically, for most companies...not hard. For Fractal, second time around now, second time epic fail.

Whatever...

Forcing everyone through the online store only pressing F5 all day long like a bunch of addicts was a foolish idea.

With their line skipping and their own list, they gave the middle finger and a good laugh at those on the Tone Merchants Waiting List.

If I recall, the Tone Merchants waiting list was a PRE-ORDER list. How come anyone who didn't pre-order is getting their AxeFX II before we did? I paid in full more than 2 months ago. Where's my AxeFX II? How come Fractal is selling those units to people who didn't pre-order ? Artists, business partners I can understand. I can "tolerate" Line jumpers, I don't blame them for taking advantage of the opportunity. I just find it very shady for Fractal to allow it. Everyone else? Unacceptable.

At the moment, being on the Tone Merchants List is a disadvantage. We aren't getting our AxeFX II in priority, other not on this list got one when they shouldn't have and we can't get our money back.

Seriously, if money wasn't involved, there would be no reason to make a fuss about it. We could simply opt out and move on. I don't blame Tone Merchants at all. Fractal must serve those who already paid in priority. Whoever else should wait their turn.

I have to agree with this ,50 units were ordered through TM they got 15 ,that left 35 balance .This balance should have been dealt with before any units should have been shipped to the wait list. If people wanted to pay the $400 extra premium thats one thing but the 5 coupons a day ..thats 25 a week .Fractal could have honourered the commitment to TM within less than 2 weeks

 

[Avenyr]

Actually only 12 on the list got their Axe. 3 of those units went to people outside the list. I don't know who(Correct me if I'm wrong?).

I wasn't aware that Fractal processed 5 coupons a day. In any case, it's obvious that they already have the stock to serve more than 5 customers a day and could complete their Tone Merchants engagement in less than 3-4 days. Even a brainless zombie can be taught to ship 20-30 boxes a day. Maybe Cliff examines each unit before shipment which could explain why they don't ship more than 5 a day. If he doesn't then there's no excuse. Of course they'd run out of unit quicker than the production line can build them but shouldn't be trying to get those units out there as fast as they can and genuinely be out of stock rather than *Out Of Stock*.

I'm sure bringing this issue on the Fractal forum would result in an instant moderator warning/ban with threads getting deleted and a lot of drama and flaming from FA Listers and Line Jumpers all feeling wrongfully entitled to receiving their AxeFX II when they did over Tone Merchants or even the G66 waiting list for that matter.

 

[gtr31]

I dont think there is a whole lot you can do Fractal pretty much made the choice .I can see what he is doing trying to keep everyone happy by allotting units to the store at premium .allotting limited # to the wait list .
People in EU have received them so he has shipped already overseas.
But I totally agree with your point the TM waitlist should have been fulfilled .The worst part is he has made it very difficult for them ,who have to be the ones to deal with the customers when they are disgruntled ..

 

[Ventura]

I just wish someone smart and opportunistic would get their hands on one, and completely reinvent it for the better, and blow FAS out of the water with professional competition

Eat that.

So it goes, monopolies and the like. Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely. Was no dis to TM, albeit I distinctly remember FAS stating NO pre-order lists. TM came along and offered their wares for 50% down, and for the most part, they've got 35 cats' 50% down in holding right now - which I am sure puts them, and several of those who paid out, in a somewhat 'awkward' and uncomfortable position.

Ain't nuthin' to do with TM. Started out as a good idea, and my guess is there was some serious alliance to the straight up business model and style of TM, and people, 50 people to be exact, gravitated towards it, and Cliff got pissed at this and is now f*ckin' with the TM program.

No surprise.

 

[ripper117]

Actually only 12 on the list got their Axe. 3 of those units went to people outside the list. I don't know who(Correct me if I'm wrong?).

I wasn't aware that Fractal processed 5 coupons a day.....

Actually I think it is considerably more then 5 a day

From Fractal forum July 16th

FWIW, that "list" is so inaccurate that it's not even worth using. Far more than 4 coupons are going out per day. You guys forget that a lot of musicians don't spend their day on forums, much less adding their names to some list. They spend their time creating music.

It is just the TM list, the list that has put money down getting the lowest priority

 

[Avenyr]

And this is exactly the opposite that should be happening. They should get the highest priority. If he claims he can send far more than 4 coupons per day, he can send far more units to Tone Merchants per week. Someone would need to give me a very good explanation why it's not the case.

When you pay upfront to preorder Halo 4, you are usually guaranteed the product on launch day without the need to line up like a moron at your local Target store like 300 others who didn't place their preorder. I understand it isn't possible with boutique gear because of the limited quantities and slow production output but at least dealing with preorders first should be a priority above all else. There is no point or interest to preorder something and be treated as a low priority customer. That doesn't make sense and it's very bad business and that's a great way to piss off a good deal of people.

If he said there would be no preorders but then allowed Tone Merchants to take 50 of them, he has to take responsibility to deal with those first. It doesn't matter how many whined and complained that it was not fair. He shouldn't have allowed those preorders to make everything fair or should have figured a more intelligent way to handle sales. Instead of pissing off people who have no reason to be pissed off, he's screwing with those that now have every reason to be.