After a couple of decades of declining “fashionability,” phaser pedals seem to be all the rage again, although the new models present twists that make them a lot more interesting and multi-faceted than your classic old-style phasers.
Dwarfcraft Devices is not a company interested in rehashing what’s done before, and their Ghost Fax Phase Computer is another stompbox confirming it.
Featuring 4 modes of operation (Standard, Manual, Envelope Up, and Envelope Down) the Ghost Fax is an infinite source of weirdness, generating anything from subtle phase shifting sounds to full on electronic sounds.
One of the most original features is the Pause footswitch, that allows you to pause the motion of the phaser, and to start it again from where you left off.
Also, holding both the Pause and Bypass switches you unlock an additional bank of controls, depending on what mode you are in!
This is the video Living Room Gear Demos shot for it. Under it, you’ll find the manufacturer’s video and more info about the pedal.
We are calling Ghost Fax a phase computer for a reason. Though traditionally an analog effect, it wouldn’t be a Dwarfcraft phaser if we didn’t add some new capabilities, along with the traditional features.
The pedal has four modes of operation: Standard, Manual, Envelope Up, and Envelope Down.
The Poles knob allows users to select the number of all-pass filters used in the phase effect. The pedal has up to 32 poles, which means that audibly, there are sixteen different spots on the dial to visit. When the Ghost Hax is set for high feedback, switching pole settings also generates a unique, percussive sound reminiscent of a complex modular synth patch.
A Feedback control allows users to tune in the “ringing” artifacts produced by the phaser, allowing for subtle phase shifting sounds to full on electronic sound generation.
The Action knob controls the Speed, Phase, or Depth, depending on what mode you are in.
Ghost Fax also includes a Pause footswitch, giving users the ability to pause the motion of the phaser at any time.
The best part, though, is the secret settings. If you hold down both the Pause and Bypass switches, you unlock an additional bank of controls, depending on what mode you are in.
