Effectrix2 - A Massive Upgrade For Sugar Bytes' Real-Time Audio Manipulation Tool

I have fond memories of the original Effectrix by Sugar Bytes, as it was probably one of the first plugins we reviewed here on ANR back in 2008 (and also one of my most used plugins for quite some time!).

Yesterday the German software company announced the release of a major update, so let’s see what’s in store for us.

So what’s new in Effectrix2 compared to Effectrix(1)?

Effectrix2 is a completely new development. According to the company, it was created from scratch, all effects were rewritten, and it comes with lots of new features.
The basic structure is similar, but in Effectrix2 the signal flow can now be reordered, it has new effects, advanced mix blending modes and a new modulation system has been added,
which means a deeper and refined modulation that can be applied per step. The Looper effects are packed with new features. For example, you can now apply swing to your loop, define a repeat pattern or gradually change the pitch or size of the loop.
Last but not least, there are intelligent randomization options with intensity levels. You can randomize the whole pattern, a single effect track, or the setup of the effect parameters.

KEY FEATURES
– 32-step effect sequencer with swing and dynamic length
– 14 high-class effects from classic to advanced
– Up to 12 complete setups (patterns)
– Intelligent random
– Flexible modulation per step
– Dynamic signal flow
– Individual Dry/Wet and global Mix control
– Over 300 handcrafted presets

Here you can see an overview of the plugin:

Some more info about the single features:

Modulators
Each effect has a modulation sequencer offering a wide range of modulators that can be applied per step.
The most straightforward modulator is From To. The modulation will start with your parameter value and then transition to the target value.
With the Step Sequencer, you can easily create a modulation per step, turn up the smooth parameter to have a seamless transition.
The Envelope Follower directly relates to the power of your audio signal, this allows to create very sound-dependent effect variety.
Then we have classical LFOs to create rhythmic and repeating patterns to perfectly fit to the speed of your project.
The Steptrain is a special variant of the Step Sequencer allowing to create stunning stutter effects when connected to the volume parameter.

Randomizers
With intelligent randomization options woven throughout, serendipity becomes your greatest collaborator.
In Effectrix2 you can randomize the whole pattern, a single effect track or the setup of the effect parameters.
We implemented 3 intensity levels of randomization, so random results can range from very subtle to total mayhem.
There’s also a random modulator you can use for parameter control.
With tempo and smoothness, you have detailed control over how a randomized parameter will behave.

Looper effects
The Looper effects of Effectrix2 are packed with state-of-the-art features to bring audio looping to a new level.
With Looper A you can gradually change the pitch and size of the loop. Besides that there are features like decay and swing to further shape your sound.
Looper B repeats its buffer according to its loop size and also provides a tool with dedicated control over playback speed while looping in order to easily create rhythmic vinyl effects.

Mix & Signal Flow
Effectrix2 offers individual Dry/Wet control and advanced mix blending modes to seamlessly merge and shape your audio elements like never before.
The signal routing of the effects is dynamic and can be changed to get the most flexibility.

Patterns
Effectrix2 can hold up to 12 complete sequencer setups within a single preset. Each setup is stored in a so-called pattern, accessible via the Pattern Keys.
You can use your mouse, automation or MIDI to select a certain pattern in order to easily transform your tracks in real-time and on the fly – for example to switch from a pattern with loopers to a pattern with vinyl.