MusicRadar Verdict
An impressive pedal that does what it claims to do with no fuss.
Pros
- +
Simple, intuitive and user-friendly in a well-designed package.
Cons
- -
A little pricey for a two-control effect.
MusicRadar's got your back
The freshly-pressed Grape Phaser comes with the familiar look and format we’ve come to expect from Aguilar.
Its steel chassis, in a subtle maroon, is simple, effective and ruggedly built, with only two controls for Rate and Color and a pair of 1/4-inch jack sockets. It can be powered either by a 9-volt battery or externally. The controls and stomp button feel solid and sturdy, while the dimensions and weight make it easy to accommodate.
Phaser effects can bring another dimension to your bass tone, and Aguilar have done a sterling job in creating an effective, simple-to-use pedal. None of your bass tone and bottom end is sucked out when you’re using it; although the top end is nicely coloured, the bass and low-mid frequencies are kept in place, offering a funky thump to your signal.
The Rate control increases the degree of modulation; some trial and error is needed to find a setting that suits the effect you’re trying to create, while the Color control dictates the ‘thickness’ of the phasing effect, from a light colouring to a heavily phased tone.
The all-analogue technology gives the pedal a vintage tone with modern power and clarity, while your playing style and technique have a dramatic effect on the sounds produced, the pedal responding to the dynamics of your signal.
Funkateers will get on well with the Grape Phaser, of course, but most playing styles will get some mileage from it. It also offers ‘gig-saver bypass’ so if the battery dies, your dry signal continues unaffected - and with a three year warranty, you’re covered if there are any reliability issues. Another fine effort from Aguilar.
“If you don’t start on time, that's not the musician’s problem”: Want to record some real musicians in your studio? Here’s how to prep for success
“After every take, Mutt would say, ‘Check the tuning, man!’ This went on and on for almost a year. One day, I just gave him the guitar and said, ‘You tune it. I can’t take this anymore!’”: How legendary producer Mutt Lange drove the Cars half-mad
“Its provides the mix ‘glue’ that makes everything sound cohesive and finished”: Here's how to compress your mix bus for sonic punch