What is the primary function of the Strymon Cloudburst?

The Cloudburst is an ambient reverb pedal designed to create lush, expansive soundscapes. It utilizes the 'Cloud' algorithm from the BigSky but adds new features like the Ensemble mode.

What is unique about the Cloudburst's physical design?

It is the first pedal from Strymon to feature a single-footswitch design. This makes it more compact and pedalboard-friendly than their traditional large-format pedals.

What does the Ensemble mode do?

Ensemble mode adds radiant, pad-like layers to the reverb signal. It tracks the guitar's input to create organic-sounding orchestral or synth-like textures underneath the playing.

What type of processor does the Cloudburst use?

The pedal is powered by an advanced ARM Superscalar processor. This hardware allows for high-resolution audio processing and complex algorithmic calculations in real-time.

Does the Cloudburst support MIDI?

Yes, it features full MIDI compatibility. This allows users to control parameters and access presets using external MIDI controllers.

Can I use an expression pedal with the Cloudburst?

Yes, the pedal is compatible with expression pedals such as the Yamaha FC7. This allows for hands-free control of various parameters like decay or mix.

How much does the Strymon Cloudburst typically cost?

The pedal is typically priced at approximately EUR 277. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and region.

Is the Cloudburst a mono or stereo pedal?

The pedal supports stereo operation despite its small size. It utilizes TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) jacks for both input and output to maintain a wide stereo image.

Is the Cloudburst algorithm the same as the BigSky Cloud mode?

While based on the BigSky's Cloud preset, the Cloudburst has been updated. It includes added functionality and the new Ensemble engine which was not present in the original BigSky version.

Who is the target audience for this pedal?

The Cloudburst suits ambient guitarists, film composers, and worship musicians. It is ideal for anyone needing transformative, cinematic reverberation in a small footprint.

Does it require a special power supply?

Like most Strymon pedals, it requires a standard 9V DC center-negative power supply. It has a high current draw due to the ARM processor, so a dedicated isolated power output is recommended.

How does it compare to the Boss DD-3T or Behringer UC200?

The Cloudburst is a dedicated high-end reverb, whereas the DD-3T is a digital delay and the UC200 is a chorus pedal. They perform different functions, though all can be used together in a signal chain.

Gear article

Strymon Cloudburst Ambient Reverb Pedal

The Strymon Cloudburst is a compact, high-fidelity ambient reverb pedal designed to produce expansive, cinematic soundscapes. It marks a significant shift for the manufacturer as their first single-footswitch format pedal, featuring the advanced Ensemble engine for synth-like textures.

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Background and Design

The Cloudburst represents a distilled and enhanced version of the 'Cloud' algorithm originally found in Strymon's flagship BigSky workstation. Recognising the demand for high-quality ambient effects in a smaller footprint, Strymon developed this single-footswitch unit to provide the same lush reverberation but with modern processing power. It is powered by an ARM Superscalar processor, ensuring high-fidelity audio signal paths while maintaining a compact physical profile on a pedalboard.

The Ensemble Engine

A primary innovation of the Cloudburst is the Ensemble mode. This feature allows the pedal to go beyond traditional reverb by adding radiant, pad-like soundscapes that move beneath the primary signal. The engine dynamically tracks the input signal to generate harmonic content that resembles string ensembles or synthesised pads, reacting organically to the player's dynamics and note choice.

Control and Connectivity

Despite its smaller size, the Cloudburst features a comprehensive control layout for intuitive sound shaping. It includes standard reverb parameters alongside the toggle for the Ensemble effect. For professional integration, the pedal supports full MIDI control and expression pedal compatibility, allowing for real-time parameter sweeps or preset changes via external controllers like the Yamaha FC7.

Sound Character and Application

The pedal is characterised by its ethereal, long-decay textures that avoid the metallic 'ringing' often associated with digital reverbs. It is specifically designed for ambient guitarists, worship musicians, and experimental players who require atmospheric depth. While it can produce subtle room-like sounds, its strength lies in its ability to transform a single guitar note into a dense, orchestral wash.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to the original BigSky, the Cloudburst offers a more focused experience with a lower entry price and a smaller footprint. Unlike standard digital delays or flangers, such as the Boss DD-3T or Fender Hammertone Flanger, the Cloudburst focuses entirely on the spatial and harmonic 'bloom' of the signal. It provides a more specialized ambient solution than multi-purpose utility pedals like the Boss NS-2 or Behringer UC200.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Strymon Cloudburst?: The Cloudburst is an ambient reverb pedal designed to create lush, expansive soundscapes. It utilizes the 'Cloud' algorithm from the BigSky but adds new features like the Ensemble mode.
What is unique about the Cloudburst's physical design?: It is the first pedal from Strymon to feature a single-footswitch design. This makes it more compact and pedalboard-friendly than their traditional large-format pedals.
What does the Ensemble mode do?: Ensemble mode adds radiant, pad-like layers to the reverb signal. It tracks the guitar's input to create organic-sounding orchestral or synth-like textures underneath the playing.
What type of processor does the Cloudburst use?: The pedal is powered by an advanced ARM Superscalar processor. This hardware allows for high-resolution audio processing and complex algorithmic calculations in real-time.
Does the Cloudburst support MIDI?: Yes, it features full MIDI compatibility. This allows users to control parameters and access presets using external MIDI controllers.
Can I use an expression pedal with the Cloudburst?: Yes, the pedal is compatible with expression pedals such as the Yamaha FC7. This allows for hands-free control of various parameters like decay or mix.
How much does the Strymon Cloudburst typically cost?: The pedal is typically priced at approximately EUR 277. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and region.
Is the Cloudburst a mono or stereo pedal?: The pedal supports stereo operation despite its small size. It utilizes TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) jacks for both input and output to maintain a wide stereo image.
Is the Cloudburst algorithm the same as the BigSky Cloud mode?: While based on the BigSky's Cloud preset, the Cloudburst has been updated. It includes added functionality and the new Ensemble engine which was not present in the original BigSky version.
Who is the target audience for this pedal?: The Cloudburst suits ambient guitarists, film composers, and worship musicians. It is ideal for anyone needing transformative, cinematic reverberation in a small footprint.
Does it require a special power supply?: Like most Strymon pedals, it requires a standard 9V DC center-negative power supply. It has a high current draw due to the ARM processor, so a dedicated isolated power output is recommended.
How does it compare to the Boss DD-3T or Behringer UC200?: The Cloudburst is a dedicated high-end reverb, whereas the DD-3T is a digital delay and the UC200 is a chorus pedal. They perform different functions, though all can be used together in a signal chain.