In this article we’re going to be discussing the best Univibe pedals that exist in (March 2023). In the world of guitar pedals, there are few effects that are as distinctive and iconic as the Uni-Vibe. Originally created in the 1960s to simulate the sound of a rotating Leslie speaker, the Uni-Vibe has been used by everyone from Jimi Hendrix to Stevie Ray Vaughan to create some of the most memorable guitar tones in history.
What Is A Univibe Pedal?
The Uni-Vibe pedal, a type of modulation effect, may create tones like chorus or phaser pedals. To attempt to imitate a Leslie speaker, the original Uni-Vibe was developed. Instead of successfully recreating that sound, it produced something unique.
The first Univibe Chorus Vibrato was developed in 1968 by Honey/Shin-Ei, a Japanese firm. This pedal is a defining moment in guitar history, and the tale of how it came to be is as bizarre as the sound it produced. The univibe’s creator, Fumio Mieda, was really inspired by the stars. As a youngster in Japan, he had heard the sound of radio waves reflecting off the air, and he wanted to reproduce it.
The radio waves would phase with Russian transmissions, producing an odd “washing” sound. All he wanted to do was duplicate the result. The end result is the phase modulation vibrato effect that many of us enjoy today but which was little understood in 1968. When talking about the univibe as a guitar effect, it’s impossible not to mention Jimi Hendrix as this effect allowed him to create some of his most iconic tones.. Check out our guide on the guitar pedals that Jimi Hendrix used.
What Are The Best Univibe Pedals?
When it comes to finding the perfect Univibe pedal, there are a few things you need to take into account. Here are the best Univibe pedals on the market, perfect for any guitarist looking to add a little extra something to their sound.
The first thing you need to consider is what style of music you want to use your Univibe pedal for. Do you want classic rock tones? Or do you want something that will give your solos a bit more edge? Whatever your preference, you need to find the best Univibe pedal out there that will suit your needs.
Next, you need to think about what features you want in a Univibe pedal. Do you want an all-analog design? Or do you prefer digital options? There are pros and cons to both choices, so it’s important to weigh them before making your decision.
Dunlop Uni-Vibe Chorus/VibratoÂ
Players have relied on the luscious, chewy textures of the MXR Uni-Vibe Chorus/Vibrato since the late 1960s. This effect has been updated with contemporary gigging musicians in mind. It now comes in a standard MXR housing that is true bypass switchable and a small fraction of the size and weight of the original.
You may quickly adjust the effect to your preferences using the straightforward three-knob interface. First, choose either Vibrato Mode, which simply uses pitch-shifted signal, or Chorus Mode, which combines dry and pitch-shifted signals. Then, adjust the effect volume, the sweep rate, and the overall intensity using the Level, Speed, and Depth controls.
The level control switches between the “vibe” mode and the chorus mode (when the button is off). When this button is pressed, just the pitch-shifted signal is sent through instead of your dry signal. The result is a 100% wet signal with authentic Uni-Vibe.
JHS Unicorn V2 Analog Univibe
Jangly modulation, weird in-and-out phasing, dizzying rotary sounds – all these legendary effects have been crammed into the Unicorn V2, JHS Pedals’ very own Uni-Vibe. Give the likes of Hendrix’s Star Spangled Banner or Pink Floyd’s Breathe a listen to get an idea of the unusual sounds this mythical creature can make.
The Unicorn is here to add movement and intrigue to your guitar sound. Working equally well stacked on clean or distorted tones, the Unicorn produces washy pulses of goodness ready to take your creativity to the next level. When dialling in your effect, the Unicorn necessitates a fair deal of care and attention due to its original analogue photocell structure. After all, this is the genuine deal. The centre Dry/Wet switch alternates between a milder vibrato and the Uni-basic Vibe’s sound.
The secret is in the incredible sensitivity of each volume, speed, and depth control. You get a wetter enveloping mix as you crank the depth counterclockwise. For complete time customization, Ratio offers half note, quarter note, dotted eighth, and triplet rhythms. If you change the pace, the pulses may range from gentle waves to frenetic smashes. Use the convenient tap tempo footswitch instead.
TC Electronic Viscous VibeÂ
The Viscous Vibe, which TC describes as a 1:1 digital replica of the classic Shin-Ei Uni-Vibe, features a three-way switch that allows you to pick vibrato and chorus in addition to whatever TonePrint you have put into it. A wonderful addition is the huge Speed knob that stands proud of the rest and allows you to control it with your foot. There are little knobs to alter the output volume and the strength of the effect. TC Electronic has perfected the sound of those recognisable old Uni-Vibe tones.
There will always be a market for Uni-Vibe tones as long as there are Hendrix and Trower enthusiasts. How does this measure up, then? We would argue that it does really well since it emphasises both practicality and adaptability.
The open-ended nature of the TonePrint facility provides it an advantage over its more traditional competitors despite the fact that it is board- and wallet-friendly and can reproduce antique tones. The well-known vintage-like tones are there, but there is also a fun alternative.
In conclusion, the best univibe pedals are those that offer a wide range of features and a high degree of customization. While there are many different options on the market, the pedals listed above represent the cream of the crop. So, if you’re looking for a univibe pedal that will offer you the best possible experience, be sure to check out one of these models.
Here at Guitar Effects Pedalz we also provide full reviews of the best online guitar services so you can learn guitar online.Â
