Guitar pedals and modular synthesizers, while traditionally separate entities, share an addictive quality. Notably, some modular synth manufacturers have roots in pedal development and vice versa. Gamechanger Audio is now pushing the boundaries further with its new MOD Series pedals for NAMM 2024, merging both worlds in an unprecedented way.
The MOD Series comprises three stereo effects: chorus, delay, and reverb. The design is unconventional, sparking a mix of reactions, from love to disdain. Gamechanger Audio introduces a revolutionary circuit that blends guitar effects with modular synthesis and patching, reimagining the concept of a pedal entirely.
Focusing on performance, the pedals integrate touch, playing dynamics, and note choice as crucial elements. Two core features, dynamics and pitch tracker, capture these elements and infuse them into the algorithms. Dynamics follows volume nuances, capturing picking style, instrument loudness, and decay. The pitch tracker detects note choices, bends, and vibratos.
Both modulators can be routed to any of the four effect knobs using the patch bay in the middle, offering inter-compatibility for cross-patching across MOD Series pedals. This allows for achieving complex effects with different dynamics.
The MOD Series kicks off with three classic stereo effects: Chorus, Delay, and Reverb. Each effect includes various algorithms, a hands-on interface, and a modular patch bay, enhancing the performance factor.
- Chorus: Chorus & Vibrato, Ensemble, and Flange
- Delay: Tape, Analog-style BBD, and Digital
- Reverb: Plate, Spring, and Hall emulations
Each pedal features four primary effect knobs paired with smaller attenuverters for precise modulation adjustments. The MOD Series does away with presets or MIDI-accessible settings, encouraging users to create effects on the fly using patch cables.
Connectivity options on the back of the MOD Series include stereo input and output on 6.3mm mono sockets, the ability to switch between Eurorack, line, and instrument levels, and between wet-only mix or input. Additional features include track in/out for advanced routings, MIDI/clock input, USB-C port for future updates, and a 9V DC power supply input.
