SirenFx — User Manual
Version 1.0 (Portable Release)
© NicheWorks

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1. Overview

SirenFx is a real-time audio processing application designed for creative sound shaping
and signal transformation. It combines multiple processing stages into a single,
cohesive signal path while remaining efficient on CPU, even on lower-spec systems.

SirenFx is intended for sound design, creative processing, and experimental audio work.

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2. Signal Flow (High-Level)

Audio passes through SirenFx in a fixed and deterministic order:

Input
 → Conditioning
 → Core Processing Stages
 → Time / Texture Effects
 → Output Conditioning

Each stage influences the behavior of the next. Earlier adjustments will affect how
later stages respond.

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3. User Interface Layout

The interface is divided into functional sections, each corresponding to a specific
processing role. Controls respond immediately and are constrained to musically useful
ranges. Visual feedback reflects the current processing state.

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4. Processing Sections (Black Box Descriptions)

Input / Conditioning
- Prepares incoming audio
- Stabilizes level and establishes headroom
- Prevents extreme transients from destabilizing processing

Core Processing Stages
- Shapes harmonic content and texture
- Responds dynamically to input level and frequency content
- Small changes can have significant tonal impact

Bit Reduction / Texture
- Introduces digital grit or degradation
- Ranges from subtle texture to aggressive effects
- Best used in moderation for clarity

Delay / Time-Based Effects
- Adds echo, smearing, or rhythmic repetition
- Processes already-shaped signal
- High feedback may increase perceived loudness

Output / Safety
- Prevents runaway levels
- Maintains consistent output behavior
- Does not intentionally color the sound

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5. Gain Staging & Best Practices

Recommended workflow:
1. Set a healthy input level
2. Shape tone with core processing
3. Add texture or time effects
4. Adjust output level last

If sound becomes unstable or harsh, reduce input level or effect intensity.

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6. Performance & CPU Usage

SirenFx is optimized for real-time use and stable audio performance.

CPU usage may increase with:
- High feedback settings
- Extreme texture values
- Rapid parameter changes

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7. Data & Settings

User data and settings are stored in standard Windows user locations.
No files are written to the application directory.

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8. Design Constraints

The following are intentional design choices:
- Fixed signal order
- No hidden auto-gain
- No background processing
- Predictable and repeatable behavior

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9. Stability & Safety

SirenFx does not modify system audio settings.
Closing the application does not affect system stability.

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10. License

© NicheWorks
All rights reserved.

This software is provided “as is”, without warranty of any kind.

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