The phaser is one of those effects that is excellent a being both subtle and super-nutso-crazy, so we’re always up for checking out any company’s take on one of our favorite effect genres. Today we’re going to look at the R-408 RAW Phaser from Big Joe Stomp Box Company, a vintage analog phase machine loaded with a ton of classic sounds, yet featuring an easy on-board control system.
Parameter-wise, there’s nothing too wild and crazy on the R-408: Speed seta the rate of the phaser, and Depth adjusts how much intensity or presence it has on your tone. The variable Feedback control feeds the signal back into the circuit, creating a multitude of sounds, from that classic, vintage phaser sound to an almost wah-like type of tone. Mix rounds things out by blending your wet and dry signals together, perfect for dialing in the EXACT amount of effect you want present in your signal chain.
Housed in a streamlined metal casing in order to withstand years of abuse on the road or in the studio, the R-408 is an excellent example of how phasing should be done. Not too flashy, but with enough options to make it more than a one-trick pony, this raw effects pedal will easily cover all of your basic (and some more advanced) phase shifting needs. Thanks to everyone at BJSBC for another intriguing and fun pedal – they’re got a ton of ’em in their lineup, all affordable and all sounding tremendous – check out our other Big Joe reviews here as well, and don’t forget to watch the demo to hear what the R-408 can do!
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