Gear article

Eden Astroflange Bass Flanger Pedal

The Eden Astroflange is a dedicated bass guitar effect pedal designed to provide modulation without compromising low-end integrity. It features a four-knob interface specifically tailored to the frequency response of bass instruments, offering a range of sounds from subtle shimmer to pronounced jet-plane flanging.

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Overview

The Eden Astroflange is a compact stompbox from Eden Amplification, a brand primarily known for high-fidelity bass amplification. Unlike standard guitar flangers that can often thin out the sound of a bass guitar, the Astroflange is 'bass-optimised'. It is designed to maintain the fundamental punch of the instrument while adding the characteristic phase-cancellation and comb-filtering effects associated with flanging.

Control Interface and Functionality

The pedal utilizes a four-knob layout that offers deeper control than many entry-level modulation pedals:

  • Velocity: Controls the rate or speed of the modulation cycle.
  • Altitude: Determines the predominant frequencies affected by the flanging sweep, effectively acting as a range or depth control.
  • Low Cut: A critical feature for bassists, this allows the user to define how much of the low-end signal is subjected to modulation, helping to keep the sub-frequencies clear and stable.
  • Level: Sets the overall output volume of the effect.

Sonic Character

The Astroflange is characterized by its 'low-end shimmer'. Its dynamic response is tuned to avoid the brittle high-end harshness sometimes found in generic modulation pedals. By utilizing the Low Cut and Altitude controls, players can achieve 'whooshing' textures that sit on top of the mix without washing out the rhythmic foundation of the bass line.

Comparison to Alternatives

At its price point of roughly £30, the Astroflange competes with budget-friendly utility pedals, yet it offers more specific bass-tuning than many competitors. While multi-effects units like the Boss ME-90B provide a wider breadth of sounds, the Astroflange offers a dedicated, simple analogue-style interface. Compared to high-end boutique options like the Source Audio Aftershock (which focuses on distortion) or the Darkglass Alpha Omicron, the Astroflange serves a specific niche for affordable, specialized modulation.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the Eden Astroflange?
It is a modulation pedal designed specifically for bass guitarists to add flanging effects while preserving low-end frequencies.
What does the 'Low Cut' knob do on this pedal?
The Low Cut control allows you to set the frequency threshold for the effect, ensuring that the lowest notes remain clean low-end passes through while only the higher harmonics are flanged.
How does the 'Velocity' control affect the sound?
Velocity functions as a standard speed or rate control, determining how fast the flanger's modulation cycle oscillates.
What is the function of the 'Altitude' control?
Altitude adjusts the specific frequency range that is most affected by the flanging sweep, allowing for fine-tuning of the effect's intensity.
Is the Eden Astroflange suitable for standard electric guitar?
While it can be used with a guitar, its controls and dynamic response are specifically tailored for the lower frequency range of a bass guitar.
Does the pedal include a power supply?
The Astroflange is often sold as a standalone unit or bundled with a 9V PSU (Power Supply Unit), depending on the specific retailer listing.
What is the typical price for the Eden Astroflange?
The pedal is generally positioned in the budget-friendly category, typically retailing for approximately £30 in the UK.
How does this compare to a Boss LMB-3?
The Boss LMB-3 is a limiter/enhancer used for controlling dynamics, whereas the Eden Astroflange is a modulation effect used for creative tonal movement.
Can I get a 'jet-plane' effect with this pedal?
Yes, by adjusting the Velocity and Altitude controls, you can achieve the classic dramatic 'whoosh' or jet-plane sweep associated with flangers.
Is the pedal easy to use for beginners?
Yes, it features an intuitive four-knob layout that allows for quick sound dialing while still offering enough depth for advanced fine-tuning.
What kind of build quality can be expected from Eden?
Eden is a reputable bass amplification brand, and the Astroflange is built to their standard specifications for stage and studio use.
Does this pedal provide distortion or overdrive?
No, the Astroflange is a modulation pedal. For distortion, players would typically look at alternatives like the Darkglass Alpha Omicron or Source Audio Aftershock.