Spark Control X, the latest innovation from Positive Grid, promises to redefine the way musicians interact with their Spark series guitar amps. This wireless foot controller is designed to seamlessly integrate with Spark LIVE, Spark, Spark MINI, and Spark GO amps, providing users with an advanced and customizable experience. Let’s delve into the details of this cutting-edge device that’s set to revolutionize your music journey.
Understanding Spark Control X
At its core, Spark Control X is a foot controller crafted to work seamlessly with Positive Grid’s Spark amp series. It features six steel footswitches housed in a durable aluminum chassis with rubber side panels. Each switch comes with multi-color LEDs, serving as indicators for different settings. Additionally, the device boasts two expression pedal inputs for added versatility in your playing.
Wireless Convenience
The standout feature of Spark Control X is its wireless connectivity. This aspect aims to simplify the user experience by eliminating the need for tangled cables. The six footswitches are pre-programmed out of the box, providing users with immediate control over various functions.
Practical Functionality
Spark Control X offers practical functionalities that cater to both studio and live settings. Swapping presets, toggling effects, and controlling backing tracks are made accessible with this foot controller. The goal is to provide musicians with an intuitive interface that adapts to their needs.
Durability in Design
Built for live performances, Spark Control X is encased in a robust aluminum housing with a silicone cover. This design not only ensures durability but also stability during use. The practicality of Spark Control X extends to its ability to endure the rigors of live gigs.
Extended Battery Life
A notable feature is the inclusion of a rechargeable battery, providing up to 150 hours of playtime on a single charge. This extended battery life aims to minimize interruptions during rehearsals and performances, allowing musicians to focus on their craft.
Expression Pedal Inputs for Artistic Control
The device supports two expression pedal inputs, allowing users to delve into controlling effects like wah and volume. This feature adds an artistic dimension to playing, enabling musicians to explore a range of expressive possibilities.
Compatibility and Transparency
Spark Control X seamlessly integrates with the Spark app for iOS and Android. This compatibility ensures users can tweak settings and create presets effortlessly. The inclusion of three transparent overlays simplifies labeling functions assigned to the footswitches, promoting organization and personalization.
In the Box Essentials
The package includes the Spark Control X foot controller, a USB A to C cable for charging and data transmission, three blank overlays for customization, a quick start guide for easy setup, and safety instructions for proper usage.
Pricing and Availability
The Spark Control X is priced at $149 / €169 / £139 / CAN$209 / AU$249. Shipping is set to commence in April, adding anticipation to the accessibility of this practical and reliable gear.
In Conclusion: Practical Enhancement for Your Amp
In conclusion, Spark Control X is not just a flashy accessory but a practical tool designed to enhance your experience with the Spark series amps. Its wireless convenience, durable design, extended battery life, and practical functionalities make it a tool worth considering for musicians seeking practical and reliable gear. Whether you’re in the studio or on stage, Spark Control X offers a straightforward approach to elevating your interaction with your Spark amp.
Full Specs
CONTROLS AND CONNECTIVITY
TOP PANEL CONTROLS & DISPLAYS
6 x Steel Foot Switches
6 x Foot Switch Indicators (Multiple Color LEDs)
1 x Power Indicator (To display the battery level and power)
2 x Connection Indicators
REAR PANEL CONTROLS
Power Button
Pair Button
DEFAULT PROFILES
Profile 1 – Preset Mode (To switch the Spark amp presets)
Profile 2 – Stompbox Mode (To toggle the effects)
WIRED CONNECTIVITY
2 x ¼” Expression Pedal Jacks
1 x USB-C Port (For charging and data transmission)
WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY
Bluetooth 5.0
TRANSMISSION RANGE
Up to 55 feet line-of-sight (17 meters)
PHYSICAL UNIT
DIMENSIONS
L 162.9 x W 90.9 x H 36.8 mm (Switch excluded) / H 54.8mm (Switch included)
(L 6.41 x W 3.57 x H 1.44 inch / H 2.15 inch)
WEIGHT
0.45 kg
0.99 lb
INCLUDED IN THE BOX
BOX CONTENTS
Spark Control X
USB A to C Cable
Overlap x 3
Quick Start Guide
Safety Instructions
POWER
MAIN INPUT POWER
DC 5V/2A (USB)
BATTERY TYPE
Built-in 750mAh rechargeable lithium battery
PLAY TIME
Up to 150 hours
CHARGING TIME
7.5 Hours
MOBILE APPS
Spark App for iOS and Android
Control X Software:
Customize and assign commands for each footswitch
Customize up to 8 profiles
What is a profile in this case??
Look at them as some kind of usage scenario you can assign to the Spark Control X.
In one case, you can choose to a scenario where the switched are used to to select or cycle through the presets assignes on your amp, in another scenario this can be used to enable/disable an specific effect in your signal chain.
Is the set-up and control capabilities similar to the original Spark Controller? Does the Spark App need to be the top ‘active’ app on the iOS/Android device in order to maintain the Bluetooth link to the new controller, similar to the Spark Controller? Can the new controller access other Amp Presets not assigned to the Spark Amp, but defined in my Spark App?
I had the previous spark control and the .5 second stutter when changing presets made me return it. I’ve been looking for additional information but there’s nothing related to latency. Does anybody know if they’ve resolved the issue?
Have you tried to update the firmware ? You need to go through the process proposed by Airturn, the manufacturer (https://www.airturn.com/products/airturn-bt500s-4-controller)
I went through the whole process with positive grid’s support team, which is nearly impossible to reach by the way. I updated the firmware both on the controller and the amp a few times, recorded a video of the issue and sent it, etc. After exhausting all the options they gave me a prepaid courier label to return it. Reading other blogs is seems like this is a widespread issue with the original spark control and it’s caused because the foot switch connects to the app then the app connects to the amp all via Bluetooth and this results in latency. My question is whether this has been resolved with the new control x. It seems like it only works seamlessly with the spark live because they connect through a 2.4gHz radio link, not Bluetooth.