EHX's Superego+ synth/multi-FX sounds like a tonal adventurer's dream
Mike Matthews continues to expand minds/reduce wallets
Electro-Harmonix has unveiled an expanded version of its Superego synth-engine stompbox, dubbed the Superego+, which adds a multi-FX unit to the original pedal, plus an expression pedal input and more synth-shaping controls.
Including in the effects list are modulation, two tremolos, phase, flange, delay, echo, pitch shifting, filter, detune, and rotary effects - all complemented by no less than four freeze modes, which enable various methods of infinite sustain and layering. As such, the Superego+ appears to have a frankly massive array of tonal applications.
The video above is one of the better product demos we've seen in recent months and sees EHX man Bill Ruppert run through a mind-boggling array of tones from some very convincing 'Floyd and Beatles style psychedelia, to organ and harmonica-like tones, Whammy-like pitch shift, emotive glissando, warped, sweeping filters and punchy 80s-style square wave tremolo.
The firm also says that the pedal has applications well beyond the guitar and bass, including keys, vocals and drums, so it could be a useful live/studio aid in all manner of settings.
We have little doubts about an EHX product living up to its billing, tonally, but all of this could be constructed in-the-box with a variety of software/hardware, so ultimately it will be the ease with which a player can extract useable sounds that will make or break the Superego+. Either way, it looks like we'll have fun finding out...
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Matt is a freelance journalist who has spent the last decade interviewing musicians for the likes of Total Guitar, Guitarist, Guitar World, MusicRadar, NME.com, DJ Mag and Electronic Sound. In 2020, he launched CreativeMoney.co.uk, which aims to share the ideas that make creative lifestyles more sustainable. He plays guitar, but should not be allowed near your delay pedals.
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