Tixl! The Real-Time VJ Powerhouse Rebrands tooll for Version 4

If you've been in the real-time, creative coding, or VJ scene for a while, you've probably heard whispers of a powerful, open-source tool for crafting mind-bending visuals: tooll. For years, it has been the secret weapon for artists who love to build their graphics from the ground up, node by node.

Well, get ready to update your bookmarks and your vocabulary. The tool you knew is evolving.

Say goodbye to tooll, and say hello to Tixl.

The development team has officially rebranded the software for its massive 4.x.x release, and it's more than just a new name. It's a statement of intent. This is the next generation of real-time, node-based visual creation, and it's time for every VJ to pay attention.

Why the Change? A New Name for a New Era

Let's get this out of the way: a name change for a beloved tool can be jarring. But this isn't a random corporate decision. The shift from "tooll" to "Tixl" (check it out at https://tixl.app/) marks a significant milestone. It signals the software's graduation from a niche, albeit powerful, project into a more mature, stable, and ambitious platform ready for professional use.

The "4.0" version number isn't just for show. It represents a fundamental leap forward in the engine's architecture, stability, and feature set. The new name, Tixl, feels fresh, modern, and evocative of the pixels and textures we manipulate every day. It’s a name that’s ready to stand alongside the other giants in our field.

What's New in Tixl 4 for VJs?

So, beyond the new logo, what does Tixl 4 bring to your live performance rig? In short: a lot. While tooll3 was already impressive, Tixl 4 is a refined beast.

1. An Intuitive, Powerful Node-Based Workflow

If you're coming from environments like TouchDesigner, Resolume Wire, or Notch, you'll feel right at home. Tixl's core is its node-based canvas, which allows you to create complex visual systems in a non-linear, endlessly creative way. Think of it like a modular synth for your visuals. Connect operators, pipe data, and watch your ideas come to life in real-time. Tixl 4 refines this interface, making it cleaner and more responsive.

2. Built for Real-Time Performance

This isn't a pre-rendering tool. Tixl is designed for the high-pressure environment of a live show. The 4.x.x release puts a heavy emphasis on performance and stability. You can build intricate 3D scenes, heavy particle systems, and complex shader logic, all while maintaining the framerates you need to keep your visuals buttery smooth on the main screen.

3. Deep Creative Control

Tixl isn't about just triggering clips. It's about creating the engine that generates your visuals. For VJs who want to move beyond canned loops, this is your playground.

• 3D Objects and Scenes: Import models, build entire worlds, and animate them on the fly.
• Advanced Shaders (GLSL): Dive deep and write your own shaders for truly unique, GPU-accelerated effects that no one else has.
• Generative & Data-Driven Visuals: Hook up MIDI controllers, OSC data from other apps, or even live audio analysis to drive your parameters. Create visuals that breathe and react to the music and the moment.

4. Still Open Source, Still Community-Driven

This is a huge one. In a world of expensive subscriptions, Tixl remains proudly open-source. This means a few things for VJs:

• It's Free: The barrier to entry is zero. You can download it right now and start creating.
• It's Malleable: If you have coding chops, you can dive into the source code, fix bugs, or even add your own custom features.
• It's Collaborative: An open-source project thrives on its community. By using Tixl, you're joining a group of passionate creators who are all working to make the tool better.

Who Should Download Tixl Right Now?

• The Creative Coder VJ: If you want to build your visual systems from scratch and crave ultimate control, Tixl is a must-try.
• The TouchDesigner/Notch User: Looking for a powerful, free, and open-source alternative? Tixl offers a similar workflow with its own unique flavor.
• The Generative Artist: If your work is based on procedural generation, particle systems, and reactive logic, Tixl is built for you.
• The VJ Who's Hit a Wall: Feeling limited by your current software? Tixl provides a nearly infinite canvas to escape the creative rut and design visuals that are 100% yours.

The Takeaway

The transition from tooll to Tixl is a bold and exciting move. It represents a commitment to building a world-class, professional-grade tool for real-time visual artists, all while staying true to its open-source roots.

Stop what you're doing, head over to https://tixl.app/, and download version 4. Fire it up, connect a few nodes, and see what you can create. The next evolution of your VJ set might just be a Tixl away.

Have you tried Tixl yet? Share your first impressions and creations in the comments below!