NYC’s Electro-Harmonix is known for pushing the pedal effect envelope, but their latest release is something else entirely: the Big Muff Pi Hardware Plugin is a software plugin that routes your DAW’s signal via USB to an analog Muff pedal that also acts as a controller and headphone monitor.
While the hardware (which boasts the circuit of the coveted 1973 Violet Ram’s Head) can be used as a standalone stereo (!!) fuzz, the plugin/device combo is compatible with all the major DAWs and can also function as a 2-in/2-out USB audio recording interface, which enables the user to record with or without the Big Muff effect engaged.
It also features some additions not found on other EHX Big Muffs, such as a 10 presets system, and two switches: Tone Bypass and Tone Wikcer, which opens up 3 high-frequency filters for extra top-end bite.
The top section of the pedal hosts the audio interface’s controls and LEDs, with headphone volume, Direct Monitor switch and USB output (Gain) level.
The Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi Hardware Plugin is also a controller: changes to the hardware’s knobs will be reflected on the DAW plugin and can be recorded in the DAW.
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Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi Hardware Plugin, Builder’s Notes
The Big Muff Pi® Hardware Plugin® is a new type of product that transcends the limitations of traditional DAW plugins to bring the unique qualities of analog sound to digital recording.
Analog hardware has a magical warmth that is beloved for its sound and feel. That was the genesis behind this product. Take the world’s most beloved harmonic distortion / sustainer and transform it into a plugin.
It works like a standard DAW plugin, but recorded tracks go through the actual analog circuitry of EHX’s Big Muff Pi, injecting analog warmth into your session. Of course, it integrates seamlessly with all the most popular DAWs like Pro Tools®, Ableton Live®, Cubase®, GarageBand®, Logic Pro X®, Reaper® and more.
Simply connect the Big Muff to your DAW by USB, select a track, and open the plug-in window. Instead of software emulation, you have real clipping diodes, overdriving transistors, and nature itself coloring your sound. The analog circuit is pushed over the edge and loses control. The sound you hear is the natural warmth of electromagnetic chaos.
The new Big Muff Pi Hardware Plugin can even function as a 2-in/2-out USB audio recording interface, which enables the user to record with or without the Big Muff effect engaged.
The Big Muff Pi Hardware Plugin can be used as a stand-alone pedal and shares the circuit design of the legendary 1973 Violet Ram’s Head Big Muff. That coveted pedal has set the standard for musical distortion and has been heard on countless classic recordings. It’s renowned for its unmistakable articulation and exceptional sustain, and now it’s has been updated to be true stereo. It also features Tone Wicker, Tone Bypass and presets. With the ability store up to ten footswitch-accessible presets on the pedal itself and as many as your computer can hold, it is truly a Big Muff Pi like no other!
Wailing solos. Crunchy rhythm. Fat drums. Thundering bass. Liven up just about any track or instrument in your mix. Not just for guitar players, the Big Muff Pi Hardware Plugin opens the universe of real analog circuitry to all digital recording artists and computer musicians!
FEATURES
- Brings analog warmth and magic to the digital domain. Great on guitar, but also exceptional on keys, drums, vocals and more
- Integrates seamlessly with all popular DAWs (digital audio workstations) like Pro Tools®, Ableton Live®, Cubase®, GarageBand®, Logic Pro X®, Reaper® and more
- Works like a standard DAW plugin and it can also be used as a stand-alone pedal
- The Big Muff Pi Hardware Plugin’s circuit design is straight from the legendary 1973 Violet Ram’s Head Big Muff with some very special updates including true stereo
- A Tone Wicker switch delivers the option of opening up 3 high frequency filters for extra top-end snarl and bite
- A Tone Bypass button completely removes the tone control for broadband Big Muff slam=
- Ten footswitch-accessible presets let you dial in and recall your favorite Big Muff sounds
- Provides the added versatility and enhanced functionality of a 2-in/-2-out USB audio recording interface… record with or without the Big Muff effect engaged
- Comes with an EHX 9Volt power supply and can also be powered via its USB 2.0 Type B port
Circuit
Analog w/ Digital ControlBypass
Buffered BypassAudio
StereoPower Supply
9.6VDC-200mA power adapter includedDimensions (in)
4.75 x 4 x 2.25Current Draw
120mAYear Released
2022
