The Catalinbread Talisman Ghost Reverb with Mod effects pedal is built to capture the soul of classic shoegaze while giving you the modern tools to push your sound even further. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Yamaha FX500 Soft Focus patch, this pedal weaves together distortion, delay, compression, and reverb in one expressive unit. But the Talisman isn't just a throwback—it adds footswitchable distortion and expression pedal compatibility for real-time control. With six immersive programs, from endless ambient trails to shimmering pitch-shifted textures, it delivers everything you need to sculpt lush, atmospheric tones. The rich op-amp distortion cuts through with warmth and presence, conjuring the dreamy soundscapes that defined a genre.
Footswitchable Distortion Circuit For Dynamic Soundscaping
This pedal features an onboard distortion circuit that can be toggled on and off independently, offering versatility for live and studio use. The circuit includes two operational modes—Series and Parallel—each with dedicated mix controls to shape your tone. Series mode pushes the distortion through the reverb engine, blending the spatial effects with your dry signal for a robust sonic presence. Parallel mode runs distortion alongside the reverb, allowing you to balance the two channels for a cleaner or more textured sound. Whether used alone or in conjunction with the modulation effects, this distortion adds velvety richness to your tone.
Multi-Function Expression Jack For Real-Time Control
The Talisman Ghost Reverb includes a multi-function jack capable of expression control or tap tempo, giving you precise real-time adjustments over key parameters. Use an expression pedal to manipulate delay time, create volume swells, or adjust input levels for dynamic performances. For rhythmic effects, the CB Tap device (sold separately) lets you synchronize delay timing with your music. This feature ensures seamless integration into complex setups, allowing for intuitive control during live shows or studio sessions. With these advanced capabilities, musicians can explore new dimensions in sound design.
Six Programs Highlighting Shoegaze's Iconic Textures
This pedal offers six distinct programs, each inspired by the original Soft Focus patch but enhanced for modern players. From infinite reverb trails to additional chorus voices and octave-up shimmer effects, every program expands on the classic shoegaze sound. Program 5 introduces pitch-shifting delays for harmonically rich textures, while Program 6 assigns input volume control to the expression jack for creative swells. These thoughtfully designed presets ensure that you can fully explore the genre's characteristic layering of modulation and ambient effects. Each program offers unique sonic possibilities for crafting immersive soundscapes.
Buffered Bypass With Trail Functionality
The Talisman Ghost Reverb is built with buffered bypass to maintain pristine audio quality and allow reverb trails to persist after switching the pedal off. The pedal operates between 9V and 18V DC power, with higher voltage boosting output and increasing headroom. Capacitor values have been optimized for bass players, ensuring compatibility across instruments. With durable construction and reliable bypass circuitry, this pedal delivers consistent performance for extended use. Whether in rehearsal or on stage, it offers the stability and sound quality musicians need to rely on.
Designed For Shoegaze Innovators
The Catalinbread Talisman Ghost Reverb with Mod effects pedal is ideal for players seeking to explore shoegaze's signature layered textures. Its combination of distortion, modulation, and reverb provides the tools necessary to craft immersive soundscapes with precision. Whether you're experimenting in a studio or performing live, this pedal offers modern enhancements to a classic sound, inspiring creative expression and unlocking new sonic possibilities.