What if there was a 4" screen for IK Tonex One - Step-by-Step Guide

The IK Tonex One is a powerful amp modeller and multi-effects unit beloved by musicians for its versatile tones and compact size. However, the complexity of navigating its numerous settings without a dedicated screen can sometimes be cumbersome. Fortunately, we've found an innovative solution that makes using the IK Tonex One a breeze! (Developed by Builty, Madejm, Jamkid, and yikelu—true legends!)

With this modification, you'll effortlessly see your current settings, switch presets via footswitches or touchscreen, and easily adjust parameters such as Gate, Compressor, EQ, Reverb, Modulations, Delay, and Amp—all clearly displayed and accessible right in front of you.

Let's dive into the detailed steps required to make this handy modification!

1. Prepare Your Gear

You'll need the following components:

• IK Tonex One: Available at https://gsus4.com.au/search?q=ik+%22tonex+one%22

• Waveshare ESP32-S3 Touch LCD 4.3B with Case: Available at https://www.aliexpress.com/

• Hotone Ampero Switch: Available at https://gsus4.com.au/products/hotone-ampero-switch

• Right-Angled USB-C (Power & Data Transfer): Available at https://www.aliexpress.com/

• 2.1mm DC Cable: Available at https://www.aliexpress.com/

• SquarePlug SP550-S: Available at https://gsus4.com.au/products/squareplug-sp550-s

• Van Damme 268-001-000 Balanced Cable or Equivalent: Available at https://gsus4.com.au/products/van-damme-268-001-000-pro-grade-classic-xke

• (Optional) Battery Powered Pedal Power Supply: Available at https://gsus4.com.au/products/toms-line-apw-3-rechargeable-power-supply or https://gsus4.com.au/products/daddario-xpnd-pedal-power-battery-kit

Note: You'll require a Windows-based computer to load the necessary software.

2. Download the Tonex One Controller Software

• Visit the Tonex One Controller software repository: https://github.com/Builty/TonexOneController

• Navigate to the "Release" folder.

• Click the most recent version (e.g., V1.0.9.2).

• Download "TonexOneController_V1.0.9.2_ Waveshare_4_3B_Display_Amp_Skins.zip" (click "..." and select "Download").

Huge thanks to developers Builty, Madejm, Jamkid, and yikelu—true legends!

3. Identify Your COM Port

• Connect the ESP32-S3 Screen to your Windows computer via USB-C.

• Open Device Manager and expand "Ports (COM & LPT)".

• Note the COM port number (e.g., COM4).

4. Install the Tonex One Controller Software

• Extract the downloaded ZIP file.

• Run "flash_download_tool_3.9.5.exe" from the extracted folder.

• Set:

  • ChipType: ESP32-S3

  • WorkMode: Factory

  • LoadMode: USB

• Click OK.

• In Download Panel 1, select your ESP32-S3's COM port (e.g., COM4).

• Click Start and wait for the "IDLE" green box to change to a "FINISH" blue box.

• Disconnect and reconnect the USB-C cable. The Tonex Controller main screen should appear.

5. Assemble the Power and TRS Cables

• Power Cable:

  • Cut one end of the 2.1mm DC cable, strip wires, and insert:

    • Black wire to "VIN"

    • Red wire to "GND"

• TRS Cable:

  • Strip a balanced cable and solder one end to the SquarePlug SP550-S.

  • Connect the other end to the ESP32-S3:

    • Ground wire to "GND"

    • White wire to "DI0"

    • Blue wire to "DI1"

6. Power Up Your Unit

• Power the ESP32-S3 using a typical pedal power supply.

• If it doesn't power, check polarity and switch "VIN" and "GND" wires if necessary.

• Connect the IK Tonex One to the ESP32-S3 using the USB-C data cable; Tonex One will draw power from the ESP32-S3.

7. Additional Settings via Wi-Fi

• Once powered on, connect your smartphone to the Wi-Fi network “TonexConfig” using the password 12345678. Please note, the Wi-Fi will automatically turn off within 5–10 seconds if no device is connected. (This setting can be changed in the menu.)

  If the Wi-Fi turns off before you connect, simply power the unit off and back on, then reconnect as soon as the network appears.

• Open a browser and navigate to https://tonex.local.

• In the settings menu, select "External Footswitches".

• Set Preset Switch Layout to "1x2 Next/Previous".

• Connect the TRS jack into Hotone Ampero Switch

8. Firmware Check and Testing

• Ensure your IK Tonex One firmware is up to date.

• Verify all connections, run tests, and enjoy your new intuitive Tonex One setup!

Enjoy your Enhanced Tonex One Experience!

With these modifications complete, you now have a highly interactive and user-friendly setup that makes adjusting and optimising your Tonex One easier than ever. Dive deep into your tones, tweak on the fly, and unlock the full potential of your gear.

Disclaimer:

Please note that we are not responsible for any damage or issues arising from improper installation or misuse. Proceed with caution.