death

Developed through a collaboration between Levitation Festival and Death By Audio, the Psychedelic Lightmare combines stereo reverbtremolo, and light-sensitive pitch modulation in a single effects unit. The pedal’s defining feature is its optical sensor, which dynamically alters effect parameters based on ambient light levels.

The pedal originated during creative sessions between Death By Audio engineers and Levitation organizers, aiming to replicate the experimental soundscapes associated with the festival. While unconventional, the light-reactive system introduces an element of real-time unpredictability—changing response based on stage lighting or even hand movements over the sensor.

Core Functionality

  • Reverb Section: Provides adjustable decay tails ranging from subtle ambience to washy, infinite sustain
  • Tremolo Circuit: Offers both traditional amplitude modulation and more extreme, choppy pulses
  • Light Reactive System: The WARP SENSOR modifies clock speed, affecting:
    • Modulation rate (tremolo speed)
    • Reverb decay time
    • Subtle pitch shifting

Technical Specifications

  • Stereo I/O for immersive spatial processing
  • WARP RANGE control adjusts sensitivity of light interaction
  • Standard 9V DC power (center-negative)

For players seeking non-traditional modulation, the Lightmare provides a workable niche tool, though its performance applications may require controlled lighting environments.