What are the best reverb pedals for creating ambient sounds?

I’m on the hunt for some great reverb pedals that are particularly suited for ambient music. If you’ve got experiences or recommendations, I’d love to hear about them!

Why Reverb for Ambient Music?

Reverb is a key ingredient in ambient music. It helps create the lush, spacious soundscapes that define the genre. Whether you’re layering guitar tracks or creating atmospheric pads, a good reverb pedal can make all the difference.

What to Look For in a Reverb Pedal?

When searching for the best reverb pedals for ambient music, consider the following:

  • Type of Reverb: Look for things like hall, plate, or shimmer reverb which can add unique character.
  • Modulation Options: Some pedals allow you to modulate the reverb, adding depth and movement.
  • Ease of Use: Make sure the interface is user-friendly, especially if you want to tweak settings on the fly.

Recommendations

Here are a few models I’ve heard great things about:

  • Strymon BigSky: Known for its lush sounds and extensive options.
  • Eventide Space: A bit pricey, but it’s packed with features and superior sound quality.
  • Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail: A more affordable option that still delivers fantastic reverb tones.

Your Thoughts?

If you’ve tried any of these pedals or have your own go-to suggestions, it would be great to hear your thoughts! Let’s also discuss how you use reverb in your ambient setups. Looking forward to your replies!

8 Likes

I think the key features for ambient reverb pedals include deep modulation options and long decay times. You want something that can really wash over your sound. The Strymon BigSky is great for this!

Absolutely! Modulation can add that lush depth. I’m also a fan of incorporating delay with reverb for swirling textures. Have you tried pedals that combine both?

Definitely! I’ve been using the EarthQuaker Devices Afterneath, and it has some unique ambient settings that really transform the sound. The tails feature is also a game changer for smooth transitions.

I totally agree! I can’t imagine creating atmospheric pieces without that. What other effects do you like to pair with reverb?

I often use a delay pedal with reverb. It creates a really spacious feeling! I’ve had great results with the Boss DD-7 along with my reverb, especially for ambient styles.

5 Likes

That combo is a classic! I find that some pedals like the TC Electronic Hall of Fame have varied settings that can cater specifically to ambient sounds as well.

Modulation is key! I’ve dabbled with the Meris Mercury7 which has some fantastic ambient capabilities. The presets are incredibly lush and definitely worth exploring.

I need to check that out! My current setup can feel a bit dry. Any tips for achieving those dreamy textures?

A little humor here, but have you ever accidentally turned the decay up too high? Sounds like a cats-infested spaceship landing! But, really, the best ambient pedals let you explore without fear of going overboard!

Haha! Yes! I’ve had my share of accidents in the ambient realm. But those “cat” moments often yield surprising creativity!

I reflect on my journey with reverb pedals often. Initially, I went for simplicity, but embracing those complex settings truly elevated my ambient sound. It’s all about experimenting!

3 Likes

Experimentation is essential! I found that pushing boundaries often led to unexpected and magical outcomes in my music.

Ultimately, a reverb pedal that allows easy tweaking and experimentation with ambient-specific settings is what you want. It’s about finding your unique sound!

For ambient sounds, you can’t go wrong with the Strymon BigSky. Its lush reverb settings can create a dreamy soundscape that feels limitless. Definitely my top pick!

I completely agree! The Shimmer reverb mode on the BigSky is out of this world. It can really transport you to another place.

I love my Eventide Space. Its modulation options are great for adding dimension to ambient tracks. Plus, the presets are super versatile!

Absolutely! The Eventide Space’s ability to layer sounds is fantastic for creating those thick, atmospheric sounds we all crave.

The TC Electronic Hall of Fame 2 is a great budget option. It may not have the same depth as the more expensive ones, but it still delivers solid ambient tones.

I second that! It’s a great way to dip your toes in reverb without breaking the bank.

7 Likes