TEST: MXR Phaser

 That's the thing with FX pedals in general. Similar to the flaming discussions about tube or semiconductor technology and their advantages and disadvantages in amplifier construction, the users of the FX pedals can also be classified as "analog" or "digital". And similar to the counterpart mentioned above, it is difficult to explain the analogue fan's batch cable orgies to a die-hard admirer of multi-effects devices, with the standard analogue fanatic actually speaking off the cuff about "volume", "depth" and "warmth" of his "Tretmine" can report in a monologue of about 30 minutes.

The ambivalent music fan therefore often wonders whether, in return for the undoubtedly higher logistical effort of analogue wiring, the audiophile reward really awaits at the other end or whether too much of a good thing is usually said in advance about the retro technology.

One of the forefathers of analog technology in pedal construction is the MXR company, which has been under the aegis of Dunlop for some time. The Phase 90 Phaser must undoubtedly be classified as a "bread-and-butter" pedal, which, in addition to the classic from the seventies, is now also available in a second version with a built-in LED. Both were (fortunately) upgraded with an additional mains connection some time ago.

In order to have a direct comparison to a further development, I took the Variphase CSP-001 into the test, which is issued in a limited edition by the MXR Custom Shop and is, so to speak, an interesting extension of the Phase 90. With a booster and adjustable modulation speed by foot, the Variphase aims to appeal in particular to solo guitarists.

Construction:

MXR already gave its pedals a consistent color scheme 30 years ago, which made me associate it with my watercolor paint box even then. The individual FX types were consistently equipped with almost "intrusive" colors. The phaser department got it with a dark orange tending towards brown, which looks not dissimilar to a rust primer color ;-) Whether you regard this color as a cult or simply as "ugly" is up to you, in any case, the same can be identified very easily on the floorboard, even in the dim stage lights.

With regard to control options, the Phase 90 is only beaten by an ON/OFF switch, apart from the bypass switch there is only a single speed controller, which controls the modulation speed. You will look in vain for additional controls such as the intensity of the effect or the phase position, loosely based on the motto "the official sound is preset, you can still adjust the speed a little". Housed in a solid sheet steel housing, the dwarf has a long life ahead of it. All circuits are housed on a circuit board which is easily accessible by loosening four screws on the underside of the housing. The scope of delivery includes a self-adhesive rubber base, which is intended to protect against slipping, and the well-known MXR "hat attachment", which allows the potentiometer to be adjusted with the foot while playing. By the way, the marking line of the potie phosphorizes in the dark.

The Variphase, on the other hand, comes with several modulation options, most notably the ability to control the speed of the effect with the pedal's rocker. The whole thing sits in the same housing as the well-known Dunlop Wah-Wah, only a spring ensures that the pedal returns to its original position after use. On the left side there are 2 small trim pots with which you can adjust the volume of the booster and the mix between the original and the effect signal. The processing is massive, the battery access is made possible via a small plastic cover, which is a bit notchy and thin-walled. The whole device rests on four sturdy rubber feet, the electronics sit on a single circuit board. In addition, a small switch inside the device offers two presets for the intensity of the effect (shallow / deep).

Practice:

In the field of modulation effects, the phaser, alongside the chorus and the flanger, represents the third part of the "FX triumvirate" in terms of popularity among artists. To explain briefly, the phaser periodically changes a phase-shifted copy of the original signal, resulting in regular cancellation and boosting of frequencies. The same sound is used universally, be it in funk, rock or jazz, with clean guitar or in distorted mode, a phaser supplies a dry guitar signal with an unobtrusive yet interesting sound.

Everyone has probably come across the Phase 90 sound somewhere, be it VAN HALEN, THE DOOBIE BROTHERS, ZZ TOP or any other recording made in the late 70's and beyond. The depth and warmth of the inconspicuous pedal are legendary, and in this test, MXR briefly shows the competition what makes an official phaser sound. When it comes to volume, it has always been the benchmark, nothing has changed to this day. Nobody misses the additional control options, the basic sound is already so balanced that you don't want to change anything.

The Variphase pedal comes with a different claim. On the one hand it should be able to keep the sound of the MXR phaser but still provide more flexibility. To be honest, it took me a moment to explore the CSP-001's intended use. The combination of booster and phaser in one may take some getting used to, but in psychedelic sound areas the pedal hits like a bomb, even the color of the device suits it ;-) Flared trousers put on, Mommy's batik blouse pulled over them and a little more on the Suck the bag and the basic mental equipment is ready. Retro rockers a la Lenny Kravitz will love this pedal.

Switched to a distorted all-tube amp, you can really play yourself into a "Woodstock frenzy". Once you've started, the device pulls you under its spell. Similar to a wah-wah, intelligent pedaling can add expression and intensity to your playing, assuming a basic level of personal expression, of course. What bothers me a bit personally is the fact that even with the minimum booster setting there is still a slight increase in the output level, i.e. you cannot operate the Variphase without a booster effect. In my opinion, it would have been nice to operate the phaser effect without changing the level, which would significantly increase the range of use in front of clean amps. At the moment it is difficult not to drive an amp into saturation with this effect unless level-resistant amplifiers of the Twin Reverb or Hiwatt caliber are available.

In my opinion, the double version of the Phase 90 with and without LED can only be explained by the possibility or the desire for vintage wiring that is true to the original. Despite an intensive A/B comparison, I couldn't hear any tonal differences between the two models.

Conclusion:

Phase 90 = was good, is good and will in all probability always remain the reference for a timeless phaser sound!

Variphase CSP-001: be careful, the device can be addictive. Before you know it, you're stepping on the pedal with every solo, which makes the term "effect" absurd. MXR has succeeded in moving a modulation effect that was previously established primarily in the rhythm area into the solo area. An intelligent approach, which must be regarded as successful!

Additional Informations:

- MXR Pedals: Redefining the Sound of Guitar Effects

Introduction:
MXR Pedals is a renowned company that has been at the forefront of guitar effects pedal innovation since its establishment. With a rich history dating back to the 1970s, MXR has consistently delivered high-quality, reliable, and groundbreaking pedals that have become staples in the guitar community. From iconic classics to cutting-edge advancements, MXR continues to shape the sound of modern music.

History and Legacy:
MXR Pedals was founded in 1972 by Keith Barr and Terry Sherwood, who aimed to create high-quality effects pedals that were both affordable and accessible to musicians. The company quickly gained popularity for its innovative designs and reliable construction. In 1987, MXR was acquired by Jim Dunlop, a move that further solidified the brand's influence and commitment to producing exceptional guitar effects.

Diverse Product Line:
MXR Pedals offers a diverse range of guitar effects pedals, catering to a wide variety of musical styles and preferences. Their product lineup includes classics like the Phase 90, Dyna Comp, and Carbon Copy Delay, which have become industry standards and have been used by countless guitarists around the world.

In addition to their classic pedals, MXR continues to innovate and introduce new products. They have expanded their range to include distortion, overdrive, modulation, delay, reverb, and many other types of effects pedals. Each MXR pedal is meticulously designed and engineered to deliver outstanding sound quality, ease of use, and durability, ensuring that they meet the demands of professional musicians.

Innovation and Technological Advancements:
MXR Pedals has consistently pushed the boundaries of guitar effects technology, introducing innovative features and advancements that enhance the tonal possibilities for guitarists. For example, the MXR Carbon Copy Analog Delay introduced the "bucket brigade" circuitry, replicating the warm and organic tones of vintage analog delays.

MXR has also embraced digital technology to create versatile pedals, such as the MXR Reverb and MXR Digital Delay, which offer a wide range of customizable sounds. Their collaboration with renowned artists and engineers has resulted in signature pedals, like the MXR EVH Phase 90 and MXR Joe Bonamassa FET Driver, which capture the unique tones of these guitarists.

Durability and Reliability:
MXR Pedals are known for their rugged construction and reliability. The company takes pride in ensuring that each pedal is built to withstand the rigors of live performances and studio use. MXR uses high-quality components, robust enclosures, and reliable footswitches, resulting in pedals that are road-worthy and can withstand the test of time.

Artist Collaborations:
MXR has a rich history of collaborations with renowned guitarists and bassists. By working closely with artists like Eddie Van Halen, Slash, Zakk Wylde, and Dimebag Darrell, MXR has developed signature pedals that capture the unique tones and playing styles of these musicians. These collaborations have not only brought attention to MXR pedals but have also contributed to their ongoing innovation and development.

Pedalboard Solutions:
MXR recognizes the importance of pedalboard organization and has introduced various products to help musicians optimize their setups. They offer pedalboards, power supplies, patch cables, and other accessories designed to simplify cable management and ensure efficient operation of multiple pedals.

Awards and Recognition:
MXR Pedals' commitment to excellence and innovation has garnered significant recognition within the music industry. They have received numerous awards, including Guitar World's "Gold Award" and Guitar Player's "Reader's Choice Award" for their outstanding products. These accolades serve as a testament to the quality and impact of MXR pedals in the guitar community.

Conclusion:
MXR Pedals has been instrumental in shaping the sound of modern music through their innovative and reliable effects pedals. With a rich history of groundbreaking designs and collaborations with legendary artists, MXR continues to be a trusted name in the guitar effects industry. Whether it's classic analog tones or cutting-edge digital versatility, MXR pedals consistently deliver exceptional sound quality, durability, and ease of use. As they continue to push the boundaries of guitar effects technology, MXR remains a go-to choice for musicians seeking to enhance their sonic palette and create unforgettable music.

- Phaser Effects Pedals: Shaping Tones with Envelopes of Modulation
Introduction: Phaser effects pedals have played a significant role in shaping the sounds of popular music for several decades. These versatile and captivating pedals produce a swirling, sweeping modulation effect that adds depth, movement, and a touch of otherworldliness to guitar and instrument tones. From classic rock to funk and beyond, phaser pedals have become an essential tool for musicians seeking to explore new sonic landscapes.
How Phasers Work: Phaser effects pedals employ a principle known as phase shifting to create their distinctive sound. The audio signal is split into two paths, with one path being delayed slightly compared to the other. The delayed signal is then modulated by a low-frequency oscillator (LFO), which varies the phase relationship between the two paths. As a result, certain frequencies are emphasized or canceled out, creating a series of peaks and notches in the frequency spectrum. The interaction of these peaks and notches produces the characteristic "swooshing" sound associated with phaser pedals.

History and Evolution: The history of phaser effects pedals dates back to the late 1960s when companies like Maestro and Electro-Harmonix introduced some of the earliest commercial phaser designs. These early models, such as the Maestro Phase Shifter and Electro-Harmonix Small Stone, utilized analog circuitry and were favored by guitarists seeking to add a psychedelic touch to their sound.

Over the years, phaser pedals have evolved with advancements in technology. Modern phaser pedals often feature additional controls for adjusting the depth, rate, and resonance of the effect, allowing for more precise control over the modulation characteristics. Digital phaser pedals have also emerged, offering a wide range of customizable settings and the ability to recreate vintage analog tones.

Classic Phaser Sounds: Phaser effects pedals have been utilized across various musical genres, leaving an indelible mark on countless iconic recordings. Some classic phaser sounds include:
"Barracuda" by Heart: The song's signature guitar riff is enhanced by a subtle phaser effect, adding a unique dimension to the tone.

"The Rover" by Led Zeppelin: Jimmy Page used a phaser pedal to create the swirling, hypnotic sound that defines the song's intro.

"Do I Do" by Stevie Wonder: The funky rhythm guitar part features a prominent phaser effect, contributing to the song's groove.

Versatility and Applications: Phaser pedals offer a wide range of sonic possibilities, making them suitable for various musical styles and instruments. While commonly associated with electric guitars, phasers can also be used with keyboards, bass guitars, and even vocals to add movement and depth to the sound. They are particularly effective in funk, rock, and psychedelic genres, but can also find their place in ambient and experimental music.
Phaser Controls and Parameters: Modern phaser pedals often feature a range of controls that allow users to shape the effect to their liking. These controls may include:
Speed/Rate: Adjusts the speed of the modulation effect, determining how quickly the phase shifting occurs.

Depth: Controls the intensity or strength of the effect, determining the range of the sweeping modulation.
Feedback/Resonance: Influences the emphasis or intensity of the peaks and notches in the frequency spectrum, allowing for more pronounced or subtle phaser sounds.
Stages: Some phaser pedals offer selectable stages, allowing users to choose between different numbers of phase shifting stages, resulting in varying degrees of intensity and complexity.
Notable Phaser Pedals and Manufacturers: Several manufacturers have made notable contributions to the world of phaser pedals. Some iconic models include:
Electro-Harmonix Small Stone: A classic analog phaser known for its warm, liquid-like sound.

MXR Phase 90: A compact, simple yet highly effective phaser that has become a staple on countless pedalboards.

Boss PH-2 Super Phaser: Known for its versatility and ability to produce both subtle and pronounced phaser effects.
Strymon Mobius: A high-end digital phaser pedal that offers a wide range of phaser types and advanced control options.

Conclusion: Phaser effects pedals have carved a prominent place in the sonic landscape of music, providing guitarists and musicians with a versatile tool for shaping tones and adding movement to their sound. From the early analog designs to the modern digital offerings, phaser pedals continue to captivate musicians with their unique modulation effect. Whether used subtly or dialed up for psychedelic sweeps, phaser pedals remain an essential component in the arsenal of creative musicians seeking to explore new sonic territories.