What is the primary difference between the mono and stereo modes?

In mono mode, the unit utilizes all 12 stages for a deep, complex phasing effect. In stereo mode, the circuitry is split into two 6-stage paths to maintain a true stereo image.

Is the signal path analogue or digital?

The Benidub PHASE features a fully analogue signal path. This ensures a classic timbre and smooth modulation without digital aliasing.

What type of phasing technology does it use?

It uses an optical-based design. Optical phasers are known for their smooth, musical sweep and excellent signal-to-noise ratios compared to FET-based designs.

Does the unit feature balanced connections?

Yes, the Benidub PHASE includes balanced connections. This makes it compatible with professional studio gear and reduces noise over long cable runs.

What is the typical price for this unit?

The typical price range for the Benidub PHASE is approximately £369. This reflects its status as a high-end, studio-grade effect unit.

How does 'clickless' operation benefit the user?

Clickless operation ensures that there are no audible pops or interruptions when engaging the effect or during the sweep. This is critical for both studio recording and live performances.

Can I use this with a guitar or just studio gear?

While intended for a studio-style sound, it is highly versatile and can be used with guitars, synthesizers, or drum machines. Its high headroom ensures it can handle various input levels.

What does '12-stage' mean in a phaser?

Stages refer to the number of all-pass filters the signal passes through. More stages, like the 12 found here, result in more 'notches' in the frequency response, creating a deeper and more pronounced effect.

Is this unit suitable for live performance?

Yes, it is designed for both music production and live performances. Its robust build and balanced I/O make it reliable for stage use.

How does it compare to a standard 4-stage phaser?

A 12-stage phaser offers a much denser and more complex sound than a 4-stage unit. The Benidub also provides higher headroom and a lower noise floor than most standard pedals.

Does it require a specific power supply?

Like most professional outboard-style pedals, it requires a compatible power source, though it is designed to maintain studio-standard headroom internally.

What kind of frequency response can I expect?

The unit is designed to deliver a wide frequency spectrum. This ensures that the full range of your instrument, from deep bass to crisp highs, is preserved during the phasing process.

Gear article

Benidub PHASE 12-Stage Optical Stereo Phaser

The Benidub PHASE is a professional-grade, fully analogue 12-stage optical phaser designed for both studio production and live performance. It features a unique switchable routing system that allows for 6-stage stereo or 12-stage mono operation with a high-headroom, low-noise signal path.

See live prices

Overview

The Benidub PHASE is an optical-based phasing unit that deviates from traditional guitar-oriented pedals by offering a studio-standard signal path. It is designed to bridge the gap between boutique effects and high-end outboard gear, providing balanced connections and high headroom that ensure a clean tone regardless of the input source. The unit is housed in a robust enclosure suitable for both desktop use in a studio and live stage environments.

Circuitry and Functionality

At the heart of the device is a 12-stage optical design. Unlike FET-based phasers that can introduce specific distortions, the optical approach is chosen for its smooth, musical character and superior signal-to-noise ratio. A key feature of the Benidub PHASE is its flexible routing. In stereo mode, it functions as a dual 6-stage phaser, providing a wide spatial image. In mono mode, the stages are linked to create a deep, complex 12-stage sweep. The unit is engineered for 'clickless' operation, ensuring that switching and modulation remain seamless.

Sound Character

The sound of the PHASE is defined by its transparency and frequency range. While it captures the classic timbre associated with vintage optical units, it avoids the muffled or lo-fi quality often found in budget phasers. It delivers a wide frequency spectrum, making it as suitable for synthesizers and drum machines as it is for guitars. The overall character is described as smooth and 'studio-style,' focusing on clarity and professional headroom.

Suitability and Use Cases

This unit is particularly well-suited for electronic music producers and live performers who require stereo processing. Its balanced inputs and outputs make it compatible with mixing consoles and audio interfaces without the need for additional DI boxes. Musicians looking for a deeper, more refined modulation than a standard 4-stage pedal can provide will benefit from the 12-stage mono configuration. It is also an ideal choice for those who demand a low noise floor in recording environments.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard pedals like the Fender Hammertone Flanger or the Boss DD-3T, which focus on specific digital or compact analogue effects, the Benidub PHASE is a specialized high-fidelity tool. While many phasers are limited to mono 4-stage or 8-stage operation, the Benidub offers the versatility of 12 stages. Its use of balanced connections and optical circuitry places it in a different category than entry-level units like the Behringer UC200, justifying its higher price point through superior component quality and headroom.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary difference between the mono and stereo modes?: In mono mode, the unit utilizes all 12 stages for a deep, complex phasing effect. In stereo mode, the circuitry is split into two 6-stage paths to maintain a true stereo image.
Is the signal path analogue or digital?: The Benidub PHASE features a fully analogue signal path. This ensures a classic timbre and smooth modulation without digital aliasing.
What type of phasing technology does it use?: It uses an optical-based design. Optical phasers are known for their smooth, musical sweep and excellent signal-to-noise ratios compared to FET-based designs.
Does the unit feature balanced connections?: Yes, the Benidub PHASE includes balanced connections. This makes it compatible with professional studio gear and reduces noise over long cable runs.
What is the typical price for this unit?: The typical price range for the Benidub PHASE is approximately £369. This reflects its status as a high-end, studio-grade effect unit.
How does 'clickless' operation benefit the user?: Clickless operation ensures that there are no audible pops or interruptions when engaging the effect or during the sweep. This is critical for both studio recording and live performances.
Can I use this with a guitar or just studio gear?: While intended for a studio-style sound, it is highly versatile and can be used with guitars, synthesizers, or drum machines. Its high headroom ensures it can handle various input levels.
What does '12-stage' mean in a phaser?: Stages refer to the number of all-pass filters the signal passes through. More stages, like the 12 found here, result in more 'notches' in the frequency response, creating a deeper and more pronounced effect.
Is this unit suitable for live performance?: Yes, it is designed for both music production and live performances. Its robust build and balanced I/O make it reliable for stage use.
How does it compare to a standard 4-stage phaser?: A 12-stage phaser offers a much denser and more complex sound than a 4-stage unit. The Benidub also provides higher headroom and a lower noise floor than most standard pedals.
Does it require a specific power supply?: Like most professional outboard-style pedals, it requires a compatible power source, though it is designed to maintain studio-standard headroom internally.
What kind of frequency response can I expect?: The unit is designed to deliver a wide frequency spectrum. This ensures that the full range of your instrument, from deep bass to crisp highs, is preserved during the phasing process.