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TheSyle Green Filter - Mini Review w/samples

grygrx

Lookout! Here comes the Fuzz!
Dec 24, 2003
4,529
238
Columbia, MO
Got this the other day and decided I'd record a few clips (couldn't sleep this morning). Usual caveats on quality and skill...

From Link Removed:
green filter:
ultra-versatile & extremely responsive analog envelope filter.
fizzle-crispy synth gargling, insane bubble-quacking, liquid funk-sweeps. dual selectable filter frequencies give loads of different sounds!

controls :
level - controls output volume.
width - adjusts attack/decay response.
depth - varies filter sweep height/depth.
a switch - selects different filter frequencies.
b switch - selects different filter frequencies.

Proving it exists (note giant cat hair):
Link Removed

Samples:
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Notes: The filter is turned on in every sample from beginning to end with no knob manipulation, differences in the sound are generated by how hard I'm digging in. This is most obvious in the last sample.

Comments: Sounds in samples are only scratching the surface of the pedal, the filter frequency switches allow you to sculpt many different tons. It's even possible to drive it into a fuzz/distortion-like sound if you crank the width and depth.

Pros:
Fast response to my e-mails, fast build/ship time, decent price, high build quality, versatile sound scope, easy to use. Low end retention is excellent on non-extreme settings. Easy to control. Output level control.

Cons:
No manual or control sheet (but details available online).

Score:
Easily launches into my favorite filter spot. The gurgle and ease of use combine to hit a sweet spot for me. As always your milage may vary.

:bassist::bassist::bassist::bassist::bassist:


Other filters owned previously:
Maxon AF-9, Tonefactor 442, Lovetone Meatball, Subdecay Grugle and Moan Proto, Rastop Envelope Filter, DOD FX25
 
Thanks for this, I'm very interested in the Syle pedals, but I've heard reports of bad shipping times etc. However, when I emailed I did get quick responses, so kudos to the syle for that! :)
 
Argh! Why did I have to click on this link? That's a mighty synthy envelope! It's definitely one for the GAS list... I'm also interested in what the Foam (envelope/modulation controlled synth wah) and the Automat Modulator (multi sound "vibrating" modulator) are going to be.
 
Hey, I just ordered the Syle Green filter on Saturday from NoiseFX.com. I received it in TWO days (Monday) and I live across the country. They have them in stock and they are the same price and with free shipping. You can't lose.

Also, Bill at the Syle is quick to answer emails.

I have only played with the filter a short time yesterday. This is my first dedicated pedal. I have had a Zoom B2.u for about 5 months -- that's also when I started playing bass. Here are my comments so far.

It seems well built. The case isn't going to break. The sounds are very cool. I didn't think I heard a wide variety of sounds like grygrx mentioned, but what is there sounds very good. I bought it because it doesn't sound like anything I've heard before...although my experience is limited. Love the gurgle! Seems like the width knob can be used almost like a blend. All the way to one side is dry. The A and B switches are frequency filters. One position on the A keeps the low frequencies better, while the B gives a different "tone". The level knob seems to work well so you can match the volume of the pedal while on/off.

The one downside I found is that I have a passive '73 Rick and the envelope doesn't trigger unless I play slightly harder than usual. It will come out as completely dry sound. Maybe this is a plus since you can have different sounds, but I would like to adjust the sensitivity. I am asking Bill at the Syle if he can direct me to mod it myself. I'm sure it won't be a problem to do. I would think a newer bass would have a hotter output and not have that issue.

Overall, a cool pedal and a decent price (especially for a hand wired specialty pedal).
 
danny: I agree, although this is pretty close to working at the setting it is at. I think it will be a simple fix.

SoD: Thanks, I'll have to mess with a bit tonight. I didn't notice any change in sensitivity while changing any of the settings last night, but I might have missed it. I'll be interested in hearing what Bill says in his reply email.
 
There seemed to be a little difference in the sensitivity when changing depth/width, but it didn't seem to be enough. My instructor came over last night and he liked the pedal. His passive Corvette Standard seemed to work well for it....but he has a habit of making anything I hand him sound better. ;)

Bill suggested I swap out the depth pot from a 100 to a 250 or higher pot. Actually, he said it "may increase sensitivity," which I hope means it will. :) He said I could also use an EH LPB or other simple booster in front of the Green. I'd rather just swap out the pot and not have to deal with two pedals. I'm looking for an excuse to buy some electronic components and play. I also have my Zoom B2 which boosts the signal to put in front, but.....

I tried the Zoom B2 after the Green and got some crazy noises. I think I had an envelope filter and flanger turned on. It sounded a bit like water and warbles a bit if the tone is sustained.

I'm adding a couple sound clips. My playing sounds terrible. I recorded them in about 10 seconds and I wasn't even sure if they would record on my pc. I don't even know if Smoke on the Water uses those notes. In fact, I don't even really like the song, but it has some sustained notes to let you hear the warbling. These are both through the Green then the B2.

I'll probably make some better samples in another day or so.
 

Attachments

I've been playing on this filter a bit more and really like it. I can play softly and get a dry sound and then play it harder to get some noise.

Bill said he would be working on an adjustable input booster for the filter, which would basically be a sensitivity control. I may be getting a mod from him at some point. I'm pretty impressed!