F
or a long time Denmark’s
TC Electronic was known
among guitarists primarily
for its magnificent, gamechanging rack processors. These
units, exemplified by the TC 2290,
were far more technologically
and sonically advanced than any
competing products available in
the mid-‘80s. When the 2290 was
released in 1985, the clarity of its
delay tones was unprecedented, and
its maximum 32-second delay time
was previously unthinkable. On top
of that, it was packed full of panning,
flanging, and other warm, lush
modulation effects that were every
bit as pristine and euphonic as the
delays, and it was also outfitted with
MIDI control and numerous other
thoughtful features. The TC 2290
and products like it built TC’s legacy,
giving it a lofty reputation among
guitarists as the finest designer of
digital guitar effects.
Because of this reputation, many
are unaware that TC Electronic
actually began its life as a stompbox
manufacturer, and the product that
got the company off the ground
was an entirely analog design, the
now-classic SCF Stereo Chorus
Flanger. This remarkable pedal was
every bit as game-changing as the
company’s rack units, and even more
remarkably, it is still in production
today, being built by hand in exactly
the same fashion as the originals.
And of course, TC is still changing
the game as a pioneering force in
the modern effects pedal realm.
Its groundbreaking TonePrint
technology, lush modulation and
delay pedals, and uniquely functional
loopers and tuners have allowed the
company to find a home on many,
many pedalboards all over the world.
2016 has been a big year for the
company thus far. Since the NAMM
show in January it has dropped a
grip of badass new stompboxes
that showcase its penchant for big
ideas and brilliant engineering, as
well as superb tones. These pedals
range from useful and utilitarian,
to wildly expressive and inspiring.
Some are a bit of both. Either way,
there’s a lot to be excited about
with TC’s 2016 pedal lineup, so
allow us to give you a guided tour
of the illustrious Danish effects
powerhouse’s latest and greatest
boxes of sublime sonic delight.
ToneReport.com
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