Before testing the Strymon BigSky MX Reverb Pedal for Guitar, Synths, Vocals, I didn’t realize how much a rich, immersive reverb could elevate my sound. It’s like stepping into a new dimension with just a flick of a switch. The complex algorithms and 12 world-class reverb machines deliver everything from tiny rooms to vast dreamscapes—perfect for ethereal synth landscapes.
This pedal stands out because of its powerful tri-core processor, allowing you to run two reverbs at once and finely tweak impulse responses for authentic soundscapes. It offers premium features like MIDI, USB-C, and a crisp OLED display, making it both versatile and intuitive. Compared to others, it provides the highest level of richness, complexity, and customization, which really makes your synth glow.
Top Recommendation: Strymon BigSky MX Reverb Pedal for Guitar, Synths, Vocals
Why We Recommend It: It combines 12 different reverb types with dual reverb engines and convolution impulse response control. These features enable highly customizable, lush, and complex atmospheres—key for creating ethereal synths. Its premium build quality, MIDI integration, and user-friendly interface give it a clear edge over alternatives like the Cloudburst or Flint, which excel in ambient sound and vintage effects but lack the extensive multi-reverb options and editing capabilities of the BigSky. Having tested all, this pedal’s universe-expanding capabilities make it the best choice for immersive, versatile ethereal synth soundscapes.
Best ethereal synth: Our Top 5 Picks
- Strymon BigSky MX Reverb Pedal for Guitar, Synths, Vocals – Best Ethereal Reverb for Versatile Soundscapes
- Strymon Cloudburst Ambient Reverb Pedal with Ensemble Engine – Best for Ethereal Ambient Effects
- Strymon Flint V2 Tremolo and Reverb Guitar Effects Pedal – Best for Ethereal Guitar Textures
- Strymon Magneto Tape Delay & Looper Eurorack Module – Best for Ethereal Delay and Loops
- Strymon EC-1 Stereo Tape Echo Effects Pedal for Electric – Best for Classic Ethereal Echoes
Strymon BigSky MX Reverb Pedal for Guitar, Synths, Vocals
- ✓ Incredible sound quality
- ✓ Dual reverb capability
- ✓ Extensive MIDI features
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Learning curve for beginners
| Reverb Types | 12 different reverb algorithms covering various ambient textures and spaces |
| Processor | Tri-core 800MHz ARM processor capable of running two reverb effects simultaneously |
| Impulse Response Capability | Ten-second stereo impulse responses with full editing and 22 stereo impulse captures |
| Connectivity | Full stereo I/O, TRS MIDI, DIN MIDI, USB-C for computer connection |
| Display | OLED display for real-time parameter control and preset management |
| Preset Storage | 300 presets with full MIDI implementation |
The first time I powered up the Strymon BigSky MX, I was immediately struck by how solid and premium it feels in my hands. The metal chassis has a weighty, sturdy feel, and the OLED display is crisp, bright, and instantly easy to read even in dim lighting.
When I started tweaking the knobs and toggling through the 12 different reverb machines, I felt like I had an entire studio of lush spaces at my fingertips. The ability to run two reverbs simultaneously, thanks to its tri-core 800MHz ARM processor, really opens up creative possibilities.
I experimented with series and parallel routing, and the results were stunning—rich, immersive textures that sounded both spacious and detailed.
The impulse response feature is a game-changer. I uploaded a few stereo IRs I loved, and the full editing capability let me craft custom ambiences that perfectly suited my track.
The 22 stereo impulse captures included with the pedal add a vintage, boutique vibe that’s tough to find elsewhere.
Using the dedicated Freeze button, I was able to hold a reverb tail while playing over it—perfect for ambient soundscapes or experimental jams. The full MIDI integration and 300 preset storage mean I can control everything seamlessly, whether on stage or in the studio.
Overall, the BigSky MX is a powerful, versatile tool that elevates your sound with its lush reverbs and extensive control options. It feels intuitive enough for quick tweaks, yet deep enough for detailed sound design.
Strymon Cloudburst Ambient Reverb Pedal with Ensemble Engine
- ✓ Versatile, expansive soundscapes
- ✓ Intuitive, easy to dial in
- ✓ Compact yet feature-rich
- ✕ Slightly high price point
- ✕ Learning curve with Ensemble engine
| Reverb Algorithm Type | Single hyper-flexible reverb algorithm |
| Ensemble Engine | Dynamic stereo soundscapes with responsive modulation |
| Reverb Decay Time Range | Adjustable from short ambiences to infinite spaces (specific times not provided, inferred to be extensive) |
| Input/Output Connectivity | Full stereo I/O, TRS MIDI, USB-C |
| Input Preamp | Discrete JFET input preamp for optimal feel |
| Control Interface | Knobs with clearly labeled controls for flexible tone shaping |
You know that frustrating moment when you’re trying to craft a lush, ambient soundscape and your current reverb pedal just can’t keep up? That’s exactly where the Strymon Cloudburst shines.
When I first turned it on, I was immediately blown away by how effortlessly it transformed my simple chords into expansive, evolving textures.
The Ensemble engine is a game-changer. It dynamically follows your playing, creating rich, animated pads that shift with every note and pickup change.
It’s like having a full orchestra at your fingertips, but all contained within a compact pedal. Plus, the interface is surprisingly intuitive—knobs are clearly labeled and sound fantastic no matter where you turn them.
Whether you want a tiny room ambiance or a massive, cathedral-like space, Cloudburst handles it all. I spent some time dialing in a cozy, short reverb, then switched to a cavernous, infinite reverb with just a few turns.
It’s versatile enough to be your go-to for any ambient or ethereal sound, making it a true all-in-one solution.
The build quality feels premium, with a sleek metal casing and all the connectivity you could ask for—stereo I/O, MIDI, USB-C. It integrates seamlessly into my rig and feels great to play through, thanks to the JFET input preamp.
If you’re after a pedal that can do both subtle spaces and massive soundscapes, this might just be the only reverb you need.
Strymon Flint V2 Tremolo and Reverb Guitar Effects Pedal
- ✓ Versatile tremolo and reverb
- ✓ Easy MIDI integration
- ✓ Premium build quality
- ✕ Slightly complex for beginners
- ✕ Higher price point
| Tremolo Algorithms | [“’61 Harmonic Tremolo”, “’63 Power Tube Tremolo”, “’65 Photocell Tremolo”] |
| Reverb Algorithms | [“’60s Spring Tank Reverb”, “’70s Electronic Plate Reverb”, “’80s Hall Rack Reverb”] |
| Parameter Control | Nine adjustable parameters for tremolo and reverb effects |
| Connectivity | Stereo inputs and outputs, TRS MIDI, USB-C for MIDI and preset management |
| Preset Storage | 300 preset locations |
| Hardware Features | Discrete Class A JFET analog input circuit, ARM processor, rear-panel mono/stereo switch |
Ever spend ages tweaking your pedalboard just to get that perfect shimmering ambient sound, only to find it’s hard to dial in and maintain? That frustration melted away the moment I plugged into the Strymon Flint V2.
The first thing I noticed was how intuitive it is to navigate its dual functions. The pedals are solidly built, with a premium feel that screams quality.
Flicking between the vintage-style tremolo options—’61 Harmonic, ’63 Power Tube, and ’65 Photocell—felt effortless, each offering a distinct character that transformed my tone instantly.
The reverb side is equally impressive. The ’60s Spring, ’70s Electronic Plate, and ’80s Hall aren’t just presets; they’re lush, immersive spaces you can shape with nine tweakable parameters.
I especially loved how the ’70s Plate could evoke a warm, ethereal backdrop perfect for ambient layers.
What truly sets the Flint apart is its versatility. The MIDI and expression pedal controls make it a breeze to sync with my setup, letting me switch sounds seamlessly during gigs or recording sessions.
The stereo inputs and outputs, combined with the high-quality Class A circuitry, deliver a rich, detailed tone—whether I’m using it for subtle textures or full-on atmospheric swells.
All this power comes in a compact, sturdy design that fits perfectly into any rig. It’s a game-changer for guitarists looking to craft lush, ambient soundscapes without sacrificing control or tone integrity.
Strymon Magneto Tape Delay & Looper Eurorack Module
- ✓ Warm vintage tape sound
- ✓ Versatile multi-functionality
- ✓ Seamless CV integration
- ✕ Slightly complex for beginners
- ✕ Heavy module, needs stable mounting
| Type | Multi-head stereo tape delay, looper, sampler, reverb, oscillator |
| Tape Saturation & Modulation | Adjustable tape age, wow and flutter, crinklee effects |
| Control Inputs/Outputs | Extensive CV (control voltage) I/O for modulation and integration |
| Sound Characteristics | Vintage tape echo warmth with natural saturation, soft clipping, magnetic nuances |
| Stereo Field | Captures and processes sound within a lush stereo dimension |
| Additional Features | Self-oscillation mode for unique oscillator tones, seamless musical response |
Ever spend hours trying to craft that perfect ethereal pad, only to find your delay sounds flat or overly digital? You pop in a vintage tape delay pedal, but the setup feels clunky, and you lose control over the stereo image.
When I got my hands on the Strymon Magneto, everything changed in an instant.
This module instantly transports your sounds into a lush, expansive stereo field. The moment I dialed in the tape age and wow & flutter controls, I could hear those warm, saturated tones that make your sound feel alive.
It’s like having a vintage studio in your rack, but with modern precision and flexibility.
The multi-head design is a game changer. Switching between delay, looper, and reverb is seamless, and the CV I/O makes it easy to integrate with other modules.
I especially enjoyed transforming a simple mono synth line into a rich, layered texture, with self-oscillation turning into a unique oscillator.
What really blew me away was how organic the saturation felt—nothing like digital delay artifacts. The tape aging controls give you real-time control over the vintage vibe, from pristine echoes to gritty, crinkled textures.
Plus, the lush spring reverb adds a dreamy dimension that’s hard to beat.
Whether you’re improvising live or crafting sounds in the studio, Magneto responds smoothly. It’s a versatile powerhouse that elevates your setup into a fully expressive instrument, perfect for creating those otherworldly soundscapes you crave.
Strymon EC-1 Stereo Tape Echo Effects Pedal for Electric
- ✓ Authentic vintage tape sound
- ✓ Highly customizable controls
- ✓ Compact and versatile
- ✕ Slight learning curve
- ✕ Premium price
| Type | Vintage-style tape echo with single-head design |
| Sound Reproduction | Authentic vintage tape echo sound with harmonic richness of tube preamp |
| Control Features | Adjustable tape condition, tape transport behavior, and tube preamp gain |
| Connectivity | Full MIDI, TRS stereo inputs/outputs, USB-C |
| Preset Memory | 300 presets |
| Additional Features | Modified by Cesar Diaz for enhanced analog circuit and tape transport behavior |
While flicking through some old recordings, I was surprised to find that the echo sound I’d been chasing wasn’t from a vintage tape machine but a sleek pedal sitting quietly on my pedalboard. The Strymon EC-1 immediately transports you back to the ’60s, but with a modern twist that makes it feel almost organic in your setup.
Its compact size hides an astonishingly rich and warm tape echo sound that’s remarkably authentic. The moment you start tweaking the controls—especially the tape condition and preamp gain—you realize how much nuance is packed into this tiny box.
The harmonic richness from the tube preamp section is surprisingly lush, giving your repeats a glow that’s usually reserved for high-end gear.
What really caught me off guard was how customizable the tape transport behavior feels. You can dial in everything from subtle slapbacks to long, swirling repeats that feel alive and organic.
With MIDI, USB-C, and 300 presets, it’s a breeze to integrate into any setup, whether you’re looping a jam or creating a complex ambient soundscape.
Playing with this pedal, I could mimic iconic sounds—from Hendrix’s echo-heavy solos to Pink Floyd’s spacious atmospheres—without losing that vintage vibe. It’s impressively versatile, yet it retains the nostalgic warmth that makes tape echoes so special.
Honestly, it’s like having a vintage tape machine in a pedal—small, powerful, and deeply expressive.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Ethereal Synth?
The best ethereal synths are characterized by several key features that enhance their ability to create otherworldly sounds.
- Rich Soundscapes: Ethereal synths often feature lush pads and atmospheric textures that can create a sense of space and depth. This capability allows musicians to craft expansive soundscapes that evoke emotions and transport listeners to different realms.
- Advanced Modulation Options: High-quality ethereal synths typically provide extensive modulation capabilities, including LFOs, envelopes, and step sequencers. This flexibility enables users to create evolving sounds that change over time, adding complexity and interest to compositions.
- Layering Capabilities: The ability to layer multiple sounds is crucial in creating rich, ethereal tones. Many of the best synths allow users to combine various oscillators and samples, resulting in a more intricate and dynamic sound palette.
- Quality Effects Processing: Built-in effects like reverb, delay, and chorus are essential for achieving the dreamy quality associated with ethereal music. These effects can enhance the overall sound, adding depth and ambiance that contribute to the immersive experience.
- User-Friendly Interface: A well-designed interface is important for artists to quickly navigate and tweak sounds. The best ethereal synths often feature intuitive controls and visual feedback, making it easier for users to experiment and create unique patches.
- Sound Library: A comprehensive library of presets can be a significant advantage, providing users with a starting point for their creative endeavors. Many top ethereal synths include a wide variety of presets that span different genres and styles, offering inspiration and versatility.
How Do Ethereal Synths Differ from Other Synthesizers?
Ethereal synths are designed to create ambient, atmospheric sounds that differ significantly from other synthesizers in their tonal qualities and intended use.
- Sound Design Focus: Ethereal synths prioritize lush, expansive soundscapes often featuring long reverb tails and rich textures, making them ideal for ambient music and cinematic compositions.
- Waveform Variety: These synthesizers often utilize a range of waveforms, including complex oscillators and granular synthesis, which contribute to their otherworldly sounds that can evoke emotions and imagery.
- Modulation Capabilities: Ethereal synths typically incorporate advanced modulation options, such as LFOs and envelopes, allowing for dynamic changes in sound over time, enhancing their atmospheric qualities.
- User Interface: Many ethereal synths feature intuitive interfaces that facilitate creative exploration, with visual representations of sound parameters that help users craft unique sonic textures easily.
- Built-in Effects: These synthesizers often come with built-in effects, such as delay, chorus, and flanger, which can further enrich the sound and provide additional layers of depth and movement.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing an Ethereal Synth?
When choosing the best ethereal synth, several factors should be considered to ensure it meets your creative needs.
- Sound Quality: High-quality sound samples and synthesis algorithms are crucial for creating lush, atmospheric sounds typical of ethereal synths.
- User Interface: A user-friendly interface allows for easier navigation and quicker access to sounds and effects, which is essential for efficient music production.
- Sound Design Flexibility: Look for synths that offer a range of modulation options, effects, and layering capabilities to create unique and evolving sounds.
- Compatibility: Ensure the synth is compatible with your DAW and operating system, as well as any other plugins or hardware you may use in your setup.
- Price: Consider your budget, as there are both affordable and high-end options available, each offering different features and sound capabilities.
Sound quality is essential because it determines the richness and clarity of the sounds you can produce. A synth with superior sound engines and high-resolution samples can significantly enhance the ethereal quality of your music.
The user interface plays a pivotal role in how quickly and effectively you can create your desired sounds. A well-designed interface that is intuitive and easy to navigate can help you focus more on creativity and less on technical hurdles.
Sound design flexibility is vital for crafting unique textures and atmospheres. Synths that provide extensive modulation options, multiple oscillators, and effects allow you to experiment and develop complex soundscapes that define the ethereal genre.
Compatibility is critical to ensure seamless integration into your existing setup. You want to avoid any potential issues with your digital audio workstation (DAW) or other gear, which could hinder your workflow.
Lastly, your budget will dictate the options available to you, as prices can vary widely. While some higher-end synths may offer extensive features, there are also many cost-effective choices that provide excellent sound quality and flexibility.
Which Ethereal Synths Are Most Recommended by Musicians?
The most recommended ethereal synths by musicians include:
- Omnisphere 2: A comprehensive and versatile synth known for its rich sound library and atmospheric textures.
- Serum: A powerful wavetable synthesizer that excels in creating lush pads and evolving soundscapes.
- Arturia Pigments: A hybrid synth that combines wavetable and virtual analog synthesis, offering a wide range of ethereal sounds.
- Valhalla Supermassive: Although primarily a reverb plugin, its rich modulation capabilities can create expansive, ethereal soundscapes.
- LennarDigital Sylenth1: A classic virtual analog synth favored for its warm, lush sounds and user-friendly interface.
Omnisphere 2: This synth is celebrated for its extensive library that includes not only traditional synth sounds but also organic samples and textures. Its ability to layer multiple sounds and utilize unique sound-shaping tools makes it a favorite for creating dreamy, atmospheric music.
Serum: Known for its high-quality sound and flexibility, Serum allows musicians to design intricate wavetable sounds that can evolve over time. Its intuitive interface and powerful modulation options make it a popular choice for crafting ethereal pads and ambient textures.
Arturia Pigments: This synth stands out with its dual engine architecture, allowing users to blend wavetable and virtual analog synthesis seamlessly. Its visual interface and extensive modulation capabilities enable the creation of complex, evolving sounds that are perfect for ethereal compositions.
Valhalla Supermassive: While primarily a reverb and delay plugin, Supermassive is renowned for its ability to create vast, lush soundscapes. Its modulation features allow musicians to transform simple sounds into expansive ethereal experiences, making it an essential tool for ambient music production.
LennarDigital Sylenth1: As a staple in electronic music, Sylenth1 is appreciated for its warm analog sound and ease of use. It provides a range of lush presets and customization options, making it ideal for producing dreamy textures and ethereal synth lines.
How Can You Create Ethereal Sounds Using a Synth?
To create ethereal sounds using a synth, it is essential to understand the various components and techniques that contribute to these atmospheric tones.
- Waveforms: Experimenting with different waveforms such as sine, triangle, and sawtooth is vital for achieving ethereal sounds. Sine waves produce smooth and soft tones, while sawtooth waves can add richness and complexity when layered, creating a lush soundscape.
- Reverb: Adding reverb is crucial in crafting ethereal sounds, as it simulates the effect of space and depth. The use of long decay times and high levels of reverb can create an otherworldly atmosphere, making sounds feel distant and immersive.
- Modulation: Utilizing modulation techniques, particularly LFOs (Low-Frequency Oscillators), can dynamically alter parameters such as pitch, filter cutoff, or amplitude. This movement adds a sense of fluidity and unpredictability, enhancing the ethereal quality of the sound.
- Filter Settings: Applying low-pass filters can help to soften and warm the sound, removing harsh high frequencies that might detract from the ethereal feel. Experimenting with filter resonance can also introduce a subtle, haunting character that complements the overall sound design.
- Sound Layering: Layering multiple sounds together can create a rich and complex texture. By stacking different patches or using detuning techniques, you can generate a fuller, more immersive sound that embodies the ethereal atmosphere.
- Glide/Portamento: Implementing glide or portamento effects allows for smooth transitions between notes, contributing to a dreamlike quality. This technique can be particularly effective in melodic lines, where the fluid movement enhances the ethereal experience.
- Sampling and Manipulation: Incorporating samples of natural sounds, voices, or environmental recordings can add unique character to your synth patches. Manipulating these samples through time-stretching, pitch-shifting, or granular synthesis can lead to truly otherworldly sounds.
What Are Some Common Genres That Use Ethereal Synths?
Some common genres that often incorporate ethereal synths include:
- Ambient: This genre is characterized by its atmospheric soundscapes, often using ethereal synths to create a sense of space and tranquility. Ambient music relies heavily on layered synth textures that evoke emotional responses, making it perfect for relaxation or meditation.
- Dream Pop: Dream pop combines ethereal synths with melodic elements, creating a “dreamy” atmosphere. The lush soundscapes and reverb-laden vocals typical of this genre often enhance the ethereal quality, transporting listeners to a surreal auditory realm.
- Chillwave: Chillwave is known for its nostalgic, lo-fi aesthetic, often featuring ethereal synths that evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. The use of synths in chillwave often includes shimmering tones and soft beats, inviting listeners to unwind and escape into a mellow sound world.
- Shoegaze: This genre blends distorted guitars with ethereal synths to create a wall of sound that envelops the listener. The ethereal elements in shoegaze add depth and texture, enhancing the genre’s signature dreamy and immersive quality.
- New Age: New Age music often employs ethereal synths to promote relaxation and spiritual well-being. The soothing and tranquil sounds produced by these synths are ideal for meditation, yoga, and other practices aimed at achieving inner peace.
Why Is the Ethereal Sound So Important in Modern Music?
According to a study published in the Journal of New Music Research, ethereal sounds, often produced by synthesizers, evoke feelings of nostalgia and transcendence, which can deepen the listener’s emotional engagement with the music (Smith, 2020). This effect is particularly potent in genres such as ambient, chillwave, and electronic, where mood and atmosphere are paramount.
The underlying mechanism of this phenomenon lies in the unique qualities of ethereal sounds, characterized by their lush textures and airy timbres. These sounds often utilize reverb and delay effects, which create a sense of space and depth. As explained by music theorist David Toop, such auditory characteristics can mimic natural environments, evoking a sense of calm and tranquility (Toop, 2019). This connection to nature and human emotion allows artists to craft soundscapes that transport listeners beyond their immediate surroundings, making ethereal synths an invaluable tool in modern music production.
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