Based on cutting edge technology from TC Electronic, the FireworX will let you surf the limits of the possible. Turn up the heat and get ready to explore the world of digital pyrotechnics. If you’ve been searching to find an alternative in effects processing, TC Electronic FireworX is the answer!
It represents a very special perspective in signal processing, allowing you to express yourself and take control far beyond the capabilities of your average cookie cutter effects machine.
TC Electronic FireworX features an 8×8 position routing grid. Simply place the algorithms anywhere on the grid and they will be automatically “wired” together in parallel and serial, depending on the position. TC Electronic FireworX uses a dynamic resource allocation system that allows you to monitor how much DSP power you are using. You can keep adding algorithms to the routing grid until you hit the DSP power limit without affecting the FX quality.
When the desired combination of algorithms is chosen in the Routing grid, all thinkable editing tools are available, including a unique modifier matrix allowing you to twist parameters dynamically in a way you have never experienced before.
Routing Blocks
Setting up effects-algorithm blocks in the TC Electronic FireworX Routing matrix is extremely easy. With a double click on the effect block panel buttons, you insert the effect type chosen with the Value wheel. You can change the order of the effects, repeat certain blocks, add feedback loops and even insert an external device.
Choosing an effect block and pushing Enter will bring up the Sub Routing I/O page of the chosen block. You can decide on where the chosen effect will get its fuel from and where to route the power. This way you have exactly the same flexibility in connecting the effects as if you had a couple of external effects-machines and a patch-bay.
The number of processing blocks in a Routing setup is only limited by the DSP-power consumption. It is possible to monitor the percentage of each block, which is convenient when constructing complex routings.
Modifier Matrix
Looking for versatility and unlimited possibilities? The Modifier section of the TC Electronic FireworX is the key to versatility. Only your imagination is the limit here. Think of any possible way to combine modifiers and effect parameters, and make it happen. Creativity brought to work – all made possible by the TC Electronic FireworX.
Available in the Modifier Matrix page, is the constant set of internal and external parameter modifiers. 8 external control inputs (e.g. assigned to MIDI), and 8 internal modifiers like e.g. ADSR’s, LFO’s, Envelopes + more. These modifiers can be assigned to control any parameter appearing on a list at the right of the display. This list is unique for the current effects-combination at the Routing and Edit pages.
Like in a patchbay, simply connect virtual wires from the desired modifier to the parameter that dynamically should be adjusted. An example of an internal modifier is Freeform. Actually, this is a tiny sequencer that allows you to create a more “rhythmic” sequence than e.g. an ADSR. This is very useful if you want a Phaser or a Tremolo to act as a percussive sidekick to a breakbeat.
Edit
All inserted effects-algorithms in the Routing grid has all the parameters for editing that you can expect from even the high-end stand-alone effects units. When scrolling the Edit window, simply use the cursor to select effect-blocks and press Enter to access the parameter list. On top of all the algorithms, all internal Modifiers and several other functions have multiple adjustment possibilities.
When using a machine that has so many combinations of settings an essential thing is factory presets. This gives you a useful set of starting points for various applications. The FireworX has no less than 400 factory settings. The library contains lots of weird sounding effects, beautiful outdoor location reverbs and music-effects you have never dreamt were possible to create.
This way the TC Electronic FireworX can become the “secret weapon” for lots of producers and engineers, when they want to add a unique touch that makes the production stand out from the crowd. Both a full package of presets made for music-production and a package for Film-production, are standard in the TC Electronic FireworX.
Store/Recall
The TC Electronic FireworX has multiple ways of storing favorite settings and recalling them again. 400 factory presets can be dialled up at any time, adjusted and stored in 200 internal User-bank locations. If the 200 User-presets are not enough, a standard PCMCIA card can be inserted, and additional 200 presets can be stored.
Another advantage of the card is obviously that it can be carried around, making it possible for you to have your best settings available, no matter what studio-setup you are working in. With the preset filter it is possible to search for presets containing e.g. a Vocoder, without having to scroll through all the presets in the machine.
Setups
The TC Electronic FireworX can be set up in various combinations. How you should set it up depends on your specific application. The vast amount of digital and analog I/O’s, means that the FireworX will fit into multiple system setups, and most likely also combinations you never have considered possible.
The TC Electronic FireworX can be inserted on a Group or even a channel and will then handle the wet/dry balance on the signal. The TC Electronic FireworX can also be used as a standard effects unit, with an Aux send and returns on channels or stereo-inputs. Finally, the TC Electronic FireworX can be connected with the analogue I/O’s as e.g. inserted on a group, and simultaneously an external device can be inserted using the digital I/O’s and the insert blocks in the Routing grid.
