TC Electronic Dynamic EQ User manual

Dynamic EQ for PowerCore Manual English
Manual
Dynamic EQ for PowerCore

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SUPPORT AND CONTACT DETAILS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
TABLE OF CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
GENERAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
OVERVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
GENERIC CONTROLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
METERING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
PARAMETERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
PRESET HANDLING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
32
SUPPORT AND CONTACT DETAILS
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The TC Support Interactive website www.tcsupport.tc is designed as an online support
and information center. At the site you can find answers to specific questions regarding
TC software and hardware. All known issues are stored in a database searchable by
product, category, keywords, or phrases. Under the section "My Stuff" you can login to
check the status of your questions, download materials such as product manuals,
software updates and new presets.
This site has been specifically designed to meet the needs of our users. We constantly
update the database and you will find the site to be a huge resource of information.
Browse through Q&A's and discover new aspects of your TC product.
If you can't find an answer online, you have the option of submitting a question to our
technical support staff who will then reply to you by e-mail. The TC Support Team is on
constant alert to help you in any way they can.
Contact Details:
Alternatively, you may contact the TC Electronic distributor in your area, or write to:
www.tcelectronic.com
© BY TC ELECTRONIC A/S 2007. ALL PRODUCT AND COMPANY NAMES ARE TRADEMARKS OF
THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. VST IS A TRADEMARK OF STEINBERG AG, AUDIO UNITS IS A
TRADEMARK OF APPLE COMPUTER, INC.
ALL SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. TC Electronic is a TC Group company.
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GENERAL INFORMATION
5
INTRODUCTION
With most common Equalizers, correcting gain imbalances in program material will result
in subtle yet undesirable changes to the spectral balance of the rest of the audio
material. Dynamic EQ for PowerCore is no such equalizer. Utilizing 48-Bit phase-linear
processing, Dynamic EQ for PowerCore delivers the most accurate and flexible
equalization possible, without compromise.
Dynamic EQ offers up to four definable bands, which can work in static or dynamic
mode, or even a combination of both. Each of the bands can be configured as a
parametric EQ or hi/low shelving filter.
The Sidechain bands can be unlinked from the processing bands, so the high frequency
content of a mix can control the low-end and vice versa. The processing of this plug-in is
all in 48-bit double precision and may even be used in a Linear phase mode for much
more transparent results.
Dynamic EQ represents a new generation of mastering tools for the PowerCore platform.
This virtual processor eliminates the shortcomings of static EQ by providing a marriage
between dynamics processing and EQ.
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• Better control over dynamic signals and “critical” material
• Multiple Frequency bands can be controlled independently
• With linear phase mode, the typical coloration of sound caused by phase effects
introduced by normal EQs can be prevented. This is especially interesting for
mastering purposes since the original sound character of the processed material can
be maintained.
• Changes in EQ and signal dynamics at the EQ’d frequency can be created which are
triggered either above or below the individual threshold levels in four adjustable
frequency bands.
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• Removal of annoying hisses in spoken word or vocal recordings
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• Correct musical instrument volume imbalances in a mix
• Dynamic Loudness Control
• Enhance or sweeten a mix
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• Eliminate background noise
• Apply dynamic boost or cut of important or annoying spectral components
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• Create dynamically controlled effects by applying extreme EQ and gain changes
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4
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If you are using a host application that supports this feature, all parameters support
scrolling on both Windows XP and Mac OS X. Simply place the mouse over a parameter
value field and use the Scroll Wheel to increment/decrement the associated parameter-
value.
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In most host applications, Plug-Ins support keyboard commands for certain functions.
The following key commands are available for all Plug-In parameters.
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Reset To Default = [Alt] Reset To Default = [Shift] & [Control]
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mono 16%
stereo 29%
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mono 17%
stereo 32%
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mono 32%
stereo 60%
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mono 36%
stereo 66%
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For each open instance of the Dynamic EQ on PowerCore devices (X8, FireWire, Compact,
Express, mkII, Unplugged), the following DSP usage applies:
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mono 30%
stereo 52%
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mono 32%
stereo 57%
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mono 62%
stereo -
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mono 67%
stereo -
Linear Phase mode:

OVERVIEW OVERVIEW
76
Preset handling
Character
parameters
Sidechain
parameters
Meters
Flat
Zoom
Selected Band
Parameter Control
External SideChain
Active Frequency
Response Display
Linear Phase
Bands On/Off
Audition

METERING
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If you are just getting started with Dynamic EQ and you want to know what all the
parameters do, press the yellow question mark to activate the tool tip function. When
activated, moving the mouse over the different parameters will display information about
the parameter functionality. Of course you can disable the tool tips, as soon as you
know your way around.
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There are several views for these meters, allowing you to customize your metering
experience. Right clicking or [Control] clicking in the meter area will access the Meter
Options.
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TIP: The quickest method for resetting the Clip Indicator is to single click directly on the red Clip
Indicator LED .
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The Peak Hold option will hold the maximum peak value which is displayed in the
meter. There is also a Reset option, useful for those times when Peak Hold Forever is
engaged.
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Most Equalizers introduce a phase shift during processing, resulting in a subtle phase
distortion that colors the signal. When processing in Linear phase mode, Dynamic EQ
does not introduce this distortion, and clearly has a more transparent and accurate
sound than other Equalizers when compared to the original, unprocessed material.
To preserve DSP resources, the Dynamic EQ default is not linear phase. Selecting the
“Linear phase” option will set the Linear phase option to on, and will be characterized
by short pause in the audio while the algorithm loads onto PowerCore.
While the Linear phase mode will improve the tonal characteristics and overall quality of
Dynamic EQ, it will also utilize more DSP resources on POWERCORE. Using a high Q factor at
low frequencies, can result in audible crackling. This is a known limitation of the algorithm.
GENERIC
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Sidechaining in audio production refers to using the dynamic content of one track to
control the processing of an effect inserted on another track. Applications for
sidechaining are numerous. The TC SideChainer plug-in is included with the PowerCore
package and is used in conjunction with a number of plug-ins, one of these being the
Dynamic EQ.
By using the TC SideChainer plug-in with Dynamic EQ when mixing, you are able to
create both “ducking compression” as well as de-ess processing.
Please refer to the SideChainer plug-in manual on the CD for additional information and
usage of the SideChainer plug-in.
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For the Dynamic EQ to respond to an instance of the SideChainer plug-in press “ON” and
select the relevant SideChainer instance from the drop-down menu.
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The Amount parameter determines how responsive the Dynamic EQ should be to the
dynamic content on the selected sidechain.
8 9

PARAMETERS
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This displays the Frequency setting for each band. By single clicking this field and
holding the mouse, you can move the cursor up and down to quickly sweep through the
frequencies.
TIP: The EQ frequencies are unlimited and can “cross over” one another, so that the band on the
left may not be band 1. Always refer to the band indicator in the display to verify that you are
working on the correct band.
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Controls the shape of the Equalizer frequency response. For a peaking equalizer the Q-
value directly controls the width of the band being boosted/cut. The bandwidth is equal
to the freq setting divided by Q. This means that a higher Q setting results in narrower
band. For low and high shelving EQ, the Q setting affects the steepness of the EQ at the
specified frequency. The “Q” or bandwidth ranges from 0.1 to 20.
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Each of the four bands has a selectable filter type that can be set to Low Shelve,
Parametric, or High Shelve. The default setting for all four bands is Parametric.
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A Low Shelve filter boosts or cut frequencies below the cut-off frequency. The cut-off
frequency describes the frequency at which a cut/boost is achieved. Gain is not changed
on frequencies above the set Shelve cut-off frequency. This is most often used to boost
or reduce bass frequencies.
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A Parametric filter is a highly flexible filter, capable of creating broad cuts or boosting
peaks without influencing nearby frequencies. The center frequency is determined by the
Frequency selector. This is most commonly used to cut or boost a specific frequency
range, such as a mid frequency for a snare drum. In the ACTIVE DISPLAY, this is
indicated by the band number; i.e. Band1, Band2, Band3 and Band4.
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A High Shelve filter boosts or cuts frequencies above the cut-off frequency. The cutoff
frequency curve will display a value of 3 dB at the selected frequency. Frequencies
below the shelve cut-off have no gain change. This is most often used to boost or
reduce high band frequencies.
METERING
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There are four independent bands for processing available on Dynamic EQ. To edit a
specific band, select the band label, and make certain that it is set to “On”, or you will
not hear the changes that you are making to the EQ. If you hold down the SHIFT key
while selecting the band, you can zoom in on the selected band.
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Activate “Audition” to monitor the bands that have been activated by the Band Selector.
This is extremely helpful when checking the amount of Equalization you are applying to
your signal. You can hear the difference between the original and the equalized signal
and get an idea what was added or removed.
10 11

PARAMETERS
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The Gain Structure and Parameters of Dynamic EQ are far more sophisticated than what
you would find on a common EQ, and warrant special attention.
The gain structure can be broken down into three components: Maximum Gain, Static
Gain and Dynamic Gain. The relationship between these three gain settings is quite
intuitive: the Maximum Gain is the combined amount of Static and Dynamic Gain.
Example: You want a Maximum Gain of +8.5 dB, but you always want +3.0 dB Static
gain. With this setting, you will add +3.0 dB of static gain to your signal, while the other
+5.5 dB will be Dynamic Gain, which is dependent on the settings of the Threshold and
the INV Characteristic.
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The Maximum Gain of any band of Dynamic EQ is 18 dB. The sum of Static Gain and
Dynamic Gain can never exceed 18 dB.
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This parameter controls the amount of Static Gain added by the EQ. Static Gain is
independent of the threshold settings: the amount of Static Gain is always applied to
the signal.
A setting of 0 dB indicates that there is no Static Gain: the band is always operating in
a fully Dynamic mode.
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This parameter controls the amount of Dynamic Gain added by the EQ. The effect of
Dynamic Gain is dependent on the Threshold and Character settings.
A setting of 0 dB indicates that there is no Dynamic Gain: the band is operating in a
fully Static mode.
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Pressing the gain lock next to the Dynamic or Static gain control allows you to lock
either one parameter value, while adjusting the over-all gain. The total amount of gain
can not exceed +/- 18dB at any given time.
Click the lock symbol to lock or unlock either one of the parameters.
PARAMETERS
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The Threshold sets level at which the Dynamic Gain is engaged. The function of this
setting is tightly correlated to the setting of the INV Characteristic. When INV is set to
the default “off” setting, the Dynamic Gain is applied once the signal exceeds the
threshold. By switching the INV parameter on, the behavior of the Dynamic Gain changes,
and is applied when the signal falls below the threshold.
When Dynamic Gain is set to 0 dB, the Threshold setting will have no effect on the behavior
of the EQ.
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Each of the four equalizers can be adjusted to modify the responsiveness of the EQ to
the threshold of the signal.
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By selecting Soft, you ensure a soft and gradual transition into equalization. By default,
Dynamic Gain is activated as soon as the signal passes the threshold. Engaging the Soft
option smoothes the transition into equalization by starting to process slightly before the
threshold is reached. This may produce better, “softer” sounding results when you are
using critical material.
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This parameter inverts the behavior of the Dynamic EQ. When set to the default “off”
setting, the Dynamic Gain is applied once the signal exceeds the threshold. By switching
the INV parameter on, the behavior of the Dynamic Gain changes, and is applied when
the signal falls below the threshold.
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Attack sets the time it takes to engage the gain of the equalizer when a signal exceeds
the threshold. The setting for Attack will depend on your audio material and how quickly
you want processing to begin.
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Release determines how long it takes for dynamic equalization to fall back to an inactive
state after the signal falls below the threshold.
12 13

PARAMETERS
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The MONITOR parameter monitors the Sidechain signal, allowing greater control of the
sidechain Frequency and Q-Fact when unlinked. The sidechain band-pass filter is now
displayed as a solid curve. When Sidechain MONITOR is activated, both the MONITOR
and Band Selector lamps are red.
A Sidechain Monitor over-rides the Band Audition in the Master Section.
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The ACTIVE FREQUENCY RESPONSE DISPLAY displays information on the magnitude and
bandwidth of your current EQ setting as well as your side-chain. This display is active,
meaning you can directly manipulate the equalization parameters for all of the bands in
the EQ.
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Each channel has a BAND LABEL in the display. By clicking on a band label, you can
directly manipulate the gain of each band. If you use one the KEY COMMANDS while
clicking on the BAND LABEL, you also have access to other parameters in the display.
Each of the four bands are indicated by the band number; Band1, Band2, Band3 and
Band4.
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The CURSOR POSITION is sort of a marker that indicates the current position on the EQ
Curve with a Cross Hair type locator. The cursor fields in the display will provide
feedback about the gain and frequency of the cursor. The cursor is indicated by the
cross hair.
The CURSOR db/Freq readout reflects the position of the cross hair.
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The ACTIVE BAND is highlighted by a black line that displays the curve of the band as
you roll over the filter’s hit point with the mouse.
PARAMETERS
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Each of the four bands features a band pass Sidechain, which is by default linked to the
frequency of the band. While this is how you would normally use the Plug-In, it may be
the case that you want to dynamically control the gain with an unrelated frequency range
elsewhere in the spectrum, e.g. increasing the gain of the closed hi-hat frequency when
the kick drum hits.
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By selecting Unlink, you will be able to freely move the Sidechain frequency independent
of the EQ Frequency. You will know that the Sidechain is in the unlinked state when the
Unlink button takes on a dark background color. The sidechain will appear on the display
as a red curve, giving you visual feedback.
To link the Sidechain back to the EQ Frequency, simply click the Unlink button a second
time. This will update the Sidechain Frequency to match the Frequency of the EQ.
Remember that by doing this, you will lose whatever changes you have made to the
Sidechain Frequency setting while it was unlinked from the EQ Frequency!
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With “External” selected and “Unlink” deselected, the Dynamic EQ response can be
controlled by the dynamic content of source material located on a different “controlling”
track.
This is done by inserting an instance of the SideChain plug-in on the “controlling” track
and selecting this SideChain instance in the Dynamic EQs External Sidechain section.
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This setting allows you to select the Sidechain Frequency setting for each band. By single
clicking this field and holding the mouse, you can move the cursor up and down to
quickly sweep through the frequencies.
Changes made to the Sidechain Frequency will also change the Frequency of the Equalizer
when the Sidechain is linked to the Frequency section of the EQ.
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The Q-Factor parameter allows you to adjust the “Q” - or bandwidth - of the Sidechain.
[This can be verified by looking at the Sidechain in the Display.] The “Q” ranges from 0.1
to 20. In other terms, this could be expressed as a bandwidth value of 0.1 to 4.0
Octaves per dB, where 0.7 is equal to 1 octave per dB.
Changes made to the sidechain Q-Factor will also change the Q-Factor of the Equalizer when
the Sidechain is linked to the Frequency section of the EQ.
14 15

PARAMETERS
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Dynamic EQ has vertical and horizontal zoom tools to assist you in fine-tuning your
equalization parameters.
Zoom always zooms to the cursor position.
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[Shift]-Click Adjust Q-Factor of the selected band
[Alt]-(Option)-Click Adjust Static/Dynamic Gain ratio of the selected band
[Shift]-Alt(Option)-Click Adjust Threshold of the selected band
To reset the filter parameters, select the FLAT button. To reset ALL parameters, hold the ALT
key and click with the mouse in the frequency response display.
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Should your PowerCore be fully loaded and there is not enough free processing on your
DSPs, the ACTIVE FREQUENCY RESPONSE DISPLAY will come up in a disabled state.
Should this occur, it is advised to remove the Plug-In from the mix.
16 17
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We recommend using the dedicated PowerCore file handling system that, apart from
recall; store and compare facilities, allows for easy exchange of entire preset folders with
other users, between Windows/Mac platforms and also between different host
applications.
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Click “File” to open the File menu.
Load Preset: Select to load presets from the default preset location.
Save Preset: Select to save the preset in My Presets folder.
My Presets: Via “My Presets” you are able to load you own presets.
If you chose to store presets in other locations than the “My Preset” folder, these
presets will not appear in the “My Preset” drop down menu. However, you can still
navigate to, and load these presets via the Load Preset function.
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This is the name of the preset.
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The [UP]/[DOWN] arrow keys can be used to browse through all presets.
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With the A/B compare function you can easily compare different parameter settings when
working with the plug-in.
PRESET HANDLING

18
When you start working with your preset, the A/B button is grayed out. This state
indicates that the settings in both memory locations A and B are identical - so there is
actually nothing to compare.
As soon as you touch one of the parameters, the memory location “A” will be active. All
parameter changes will be applied to memory location “A”. If you switch to memory
location “B”, you go back to the starting point, and all further changes will now be
applied to memory location “B”.
Every time you press the A/B button, you will toggle between these two memory
locations.
The A/B memory locations are temporary settings only! Saving a preset, will save the currently
selected memory location only. The setting of the other (hidden) memory location will not be
saved!
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Click “Reset” to clear memories A/B and return to the originally recalled preset.
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The following locations will describe where you can find the Dynamic EQ presets, which
are stored in a folder unique to each plug-in:
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Factory presets:
<Macintosh HD>/Library/Application Support/TC Electronic/<plug-in name>/Presets/
User presets:
/Users/<user name>/Library/Application Support/TC Electronic/<plug-in name>/Presets/
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Factory presets:
C:\Program Files\TC Electronic\<plug-in name>\Presets
User presets:
C:\Documents and Settings\<your user name>\My Documents\TC Electronic\<plug-in
name>\Presets
• To delete a preset file, simply move it to the “Trash” or “Recycle bin”.
• To create a new sub-folder that appears in the plug-in menu, simply create a new
folder in the plug-in folder that resides in the PRESETS folder of the plug-ins default
preset location.
A folder will not appear in the Preset File Menu unless it has at least one preset inside!
PRESET HANDLING