The Mako M1 MkII is the updated version of the company’s “High-Fidelity Modulation Machine,” part of the impressive Mako line of stereo, multi-algorithm pedals.
In line with previous Mako releases, the M1 is a highly tweakable effect with presets and MIDI compatibility that delivers several types of modulation effects: Phaser, Chorus, Tremolo, Vibrato, Rotary and Filter, jaw-droppingly hosted in a compact case.
Two footswitches offer Tap Tempo, preset navigation and a series of momentary effects, with a very appealing Lo-Fi knob/footswitch function that takes this device also in the very trendy worn tape simulation territory.
Here’s the list of new features found on MkII
- A brand new LED Screen giving access to a Navigation Menu for adjusting secondary controls and Lofi parameters
- All new flanger effect added to the Chorus algorithm
- Updated Rotary and Filter algorithms
- Total BPM control, allowing users to select their specific tempo and read it out on the menu screen for Chorus, Phaser, Tremolo, and Vibrato programs
- Internal wet/dry mix
- 128 on Board presets
Check out the first video of the Walrus Audio Mako M1 below, you can find more info under it. We added it to our article about the best multi-modulation pedals.
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Videos of the Walrus Audio M1 MkI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yrz7IMx5mgM
Walrus Audio Mako M1, Builder’s Notes
The M1 is a powerful multi-function modulation machine with six customized, studio-quality programs: Chorus, Phaser, Tremolo, Vibrato, Rotary, and Filter. Each program has a wealth of options to tune, tweak, customize and then save to one of nine onboard presets. A sound explorers delight, the M1 features a dedicated lo-fi knob allowing you to mix various lo-fi parameters to every program. Add subtle movement and texture to float under your playing or make a massive statement with a thick swirling chorus to choppy panning tremolo. Write your sonic story in any style and genre with the M1 High-Fidelity Modulation Machine.
Programs
Chorus –
Find subtle chorus to be vibrant and lush tri-chorus that will instantly teleport you to the 80s. Type I is a traditional chorus great for tight smooth chorus tones. Type II adds a second chorus with an offset rate and depth. Thanks to the constructive interface, it has a more dramatic character caused by essentially running two chorus pedals in series. Type III finds its roots in the classic tri-chorus effect running three chorus units in parallel for a lush multi-dimensional chorus.X knob controls Lag to set the maximum allowed amount of pitch detuning.
Phaser –
Classic 70s phaser sounds we all know and love, with added features that you wouldn’t expect. Similar to the Lillian, Type I is a 2-Stage Phaser that produces a single notch to the classic mild phaser. Type II is a 4-Stage model producing 2 notches for a stronger effect. Type III is a phaser modeled after the unique tuning and LFO shape found in a Uni-Vibe.X knob determines the amount of phase shifted signal that is fed back to the effect input.
Tremolo –
This program emulates a tremolo with three algorithms containing all the bells, whistles, and even a cherry on top. Type I is excellent for traditional sounds similar to optical and bias tremolos that raise and lower the entire frequency range – similar to the Monument in standard mode. Type II is a warm and cozy harmonic tremolo – similar to the Monument in harmonic mode. This unique sound is formed by raising and lowering your high and low frequencies opposite each other. Type III offers several predefined patterns for rhythmic sequenced pulsing tremolo.X knob manipulates the phase of the left and right volume modulation for a wide stereo panning effect.
Shape and Symmetry in Type III (pattern Trem) select the pattern group and patterns within each group.
Vibrato –
Make good parts great with detuned, warbly, and vintage sounds that harken back to the 60s. Type I focuses on traditional vibrato sounds. Old record players inspire type II with classic RPM’s on the rate knob and some noise character you’d find in your dad’s old dusty Speedwagon LPs. The rate knob can select 33rpm, 45rpm, and 78rpm speeds in this mode. Type III is our take on the wow and flutter pitch characters found in old tape players. Warm and charming with a hint of nostalgia.X knob (Standard and Vinyl) Stereo Phase: controls the phase of the right output in relation to the left output.
X knob (Tape) Flutter: control the depth of the flutter effect applied within the tape vibrato type. This is a faster fluttering type detune.
Rotary –
Because you can’t fit a Leslie speaker on your pedalboard, type I aims for that traditional watery sound of a well-oiled Leslie speaker. Type II only spins the horn but still plays the sound out of the drum. Type III only spins the drum but still plays sound from the horn.X knob controls the drive of the horn.
Filter –
Add tone-shaping movement to your signal with different modulated filters. Type I is a lowpass filter good for modulated darker tones. Type II is a highpass filter used to creatively modulate your low frequencies. Type III is a bandpass filter forming a sliding “window” of frequencies. Drive the filter frequency with the main LFO or do things like set the depth to zero and turn up the LO-FI envelope control to drive the filter frequency with your playing dynamics.X knob controls filter resonance, bringing a more aggressive sound to the selected filter.
Tone controls the filter’s center frequency or starting frequency where the modulation is applied.
Presets
The M1 can save up to nine onboard presets, and 128 are accessible via MIDI. On-board presets are accessible with the bank switch. Cycle between presets in each bank by pressing Bypass and tap simultaneously. You will see the right LED change from Red to Green to Blue. Any adjustments made in a preset will change the tap LED to purple, indicating you have edited the preset.Tune
The Tune knob and toggle switch offer creative control over three additional modulation parameters and three “lo-fi” effects. These allow you to shape further each modulation program to taste. The lo-fi effects can add additional character and movement to your sound.Tone: Controls the overall tone of your signal passing through the M1.
Symmetry: Controls the symmetry of the LFO waveshape modulating your signal with noon being “normal’ or fully symmetric.
X: Controls different parameters depending on the selected Program and Type.Tweak
Each program can be fully customized to give you creative control over three different key modulation parameters as well as three “lo-fi” effects, allowing you to shape each program to taste.Shape: Choose sine, triangle, or square LFO wave shapes to modulate your signal.
Division: Controls the tap division used by the M1 to set the LFO speed when tapping a tempo. Choose between quarter, eighth, and quarter note triplet.
Type: Selects one of three different types for each program on the M1.Input/Output
The M1 offers multiple input and output configurations.Mono In / Mono Out
Mono In / Stereo Out
Stereo In / Stereo OutMomentary Functions
Press and hold the TAP/SKIP to momentarily engage a “skipping” effect like a needle skipping on a record player. Press and hold to engage the effect, which automatically repeats the last few milliseconds of audio until the switch is released.
