Heptode Virtuoso


From the Heptode website: “The Virtuoso is a boutique recreation of the original Maestro* PS-1A Phase Shifter, as used in the 1970's by keyboardist John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin) and guitarists Steve Howe (Yes) and Ernie Isley (Isley Brothers), among many others.” This pedal’s history should be enough for any phase shifter fan to pick one up. If you need more convincing, just take a look at its uncompromising simplicity and beautiful sound.

External Control: None
Cost: $$

HornFX Review

Interface:  5/5
This is literally the easiest pedal possible to use. There are no knobs. Just three settings. Each has a footswitch. Simple.

Versatility: 1/5
Although it only does one thing, this pedal does it very well. You get three speeds. You may not tweak them.

Clarity of Effect: 4.5/5
Truly one of the better sounding phase shifters we have heard. The effect cuts though without compromising your tone. The virtuoso sounds as good as it is simple.

Complexity: Simple

Complexity: Simple

Live application: 3.5/5
This is a fantastic pedal if you want a no frills phase. It sounds great, and goes slow, medium, or fast. What else could you possibly need?

InterfaceVersatilityClarity of EffectLive ApplicationTotal Score
5/51/54.5/53.5/514/20

Product Information

The Virtuoso Phase Shifter is a boutique recreation of the original Maestro* PS-1A Phase Shifter, as used in the 1970's by keyboardist John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin) and guitarists Steve Howe (Yes), Alex Lifeson (Rush), Ernie Isley (Isley Brothers), among many others.

Footswitches below three colorful LED's select SLOW, MEDIUM or FAST PHASE. The effect ramps up or down when changing from one speed to another and like the original, sounds superb with guitar or keyboards.The Virtuoso's modern accruements include a footprint that is pedal board friendly, can be powered by either a 9v battery or AC Adapter, is true bypass (relay based) and has a much improved signal-to-noise ratio.Specifications:6-stage analog phaser pedal3 phase speeds (Slow, Medium, Fast)Relay-based true bypass

Power: 9V battery (High quality alkaline battery included) or AC Adapter DC 9V (negative center pin, not included)Current draw: 45 mA typicalDimensions: 153 mm (W) x 88 mm (D) x 70 mm (H) / 6.0’’ (W) x 3.5’’ (D) x 2.7’’ (H)Weight: 500 g / 17 oz

Heptode pedals carry a 2 years limited warranty.

  • 6-stage analog phase shifter

  • 3 phase speeds (Slow, Medium, Fast)

  • Relay-based true bypass

  • Power: 9V battery (High quality alkaline battery included) or AC Adapter DC 9V (negative center pin, not included)

  • Current draw: 45 mA typical

  • Dimensions: 153 mm (W) x 88 mm (D) x 70 mm (H) / 6.0’’ (W) x 3.5’’ (D) x 2.7’’ (H)

  • Weight: 500 g / 17 oz

 

Product info from the Heptode website.