Darkglass Anagram Multi FX Announced

[IvanBassist]

Looks like the new update is out and it’s all about MIDI

Btw the hyperlink leads to a new user manual, this is great!

yes! Hope you guys enjoy using MIDI now!

Also, check the Darkglass YouTube channel for an overview video

 

[silky smoove]

I was disappointed to see the updated implementation did not include the two things that I wanted to see for use with the Darkglass MIDI footswitch. I wanted them to allow either:

1. An additional five slots when in Stomp mode for programming up to 8 macros, or;
2. Make 8 scene selections available

Either of these would have turned the Darkglass MIDI footswitch into an absolute powerhouse add-on that matched the aesthetic and would still fit on many compact pedalboards. For me personally the added MIDI functionality doesn't provide anything that will enhance my use of Anagram. Hopefully in the future they'll expand the MIDI functionality even further to include my requested features.

 

[M4verick]

Ok so yesterday I got my Anagram pedal so after playing with it a few hours I thought I'll write a few words.

I had a few L6 multifx from Helix family as well as Zoom b2 four.

The effects are few but are 100% dedicated to bass, unlike Helix.

I absolutely love the overdrive sections with Microtubes X on top - as expected from Darkglass.

I also love that every effect is pretty much usable right away with little teweak needed. Inapreciate some minor improvements like volume unity between pedals.

I still don't know what is the real life inspirations of amp - except Gallien Kruger (anyone help please?).

Everything seems usable and despite fewer options I like more effects compared to Helix where a lot of them were unusable.

Even the moog bass is great, though I want the MXR bass synth to complement my Anagram.

I'm not sure which compressor to choose and should I tweak it or leave with default settings - any advices?

This little pedal is worth every penny and worth a good power unit so I'm waiting for Cioks SOL to arrive already.

I love it!

 

[IvanBassist]

I was disappointed to see the updated implementation did not include the two things that I wanted to see for use with the Darkglass MIDI footswitch. I wanted them to allow either:

1. An additional five slots when in Stomp mode for programming up to 8 macros, or;
2. Make 8 scene selections available

Either of these would have turned the Darkglass MIDI footswitch into an absolute powerhouse add-on that matched the aesthetic and would still fit on many compact pedalboards. For me personally the added MIDI functionality doesn't provide anything that will enhance my use of Anagram. Hopefully in the future they'll expand the MIDI functionality even further to include my requested features.

You can set knob binding macros for this. I actually explain that in the video on DG’s YouTube channel

 

[otto B]

Thank you for your reply. I tried what you suggested, but unfortunately it didn’t solve the problem. Either the pot shafts are too short, or the knobs are too long. At the moment, the only way to properly use the Darkglass Anagram is to remove the knobs completely.

Honestly, I’m very surprised and disappointed. I’ve always considered Darkglass to be a top-quality brand, but this unit feels worse than cheap toys from China. I waited several months for this device, and receiving it in such a condition was a shock.

I have already packed the unit and sent it back to the store.
This was a really unpleasant experience, and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone.

I just got mine on Saturday, one of the knobs has the same problem. I think the only solution is to stuff something inside so it prevents it to go all the way down.

I do like the simplicity of the pedal and many other things, however lacking of available blocks (effects) its also disappointing. Who knows when they will be adding other effects. I am returning mine this afternoon to the store.

 

[silky smoove]

You can set knob binding macros for this. I actually explain that in the video on DG’s YouTube channel

I'll check it out. The information in the manual doesn't do a good job of explaining this, so hopefully your video fills in the gap.

 

[c-ba55]

The major update to this $1200 pedal is how you can buy a $200 something else to make it usable?

 

[SteveFromBerlin]

I was disappointed to see the updated implementation did not include the two things that I wanted to see for use with the Darkglass MIDI footswitch. I wanted them to allow either:

1. An additional five slots when in Stomp mode for programming up to 8 macros, or;
2. Make 8 scene selections available

Either of these would have turned the Darkglass MIDI footswitch into an absolute powerhouse add-on that matched the aesthetic and would still fit on many compact pedalboards. For me personally the added MIDI functionality doesn't provide anything that will enhance my use of Anagram. Hopefully in the future they'll expand the MIDI functionality even further to include my requested features.

I'm with you on that one. I know Macros will help a lot but nothing beats the flexibility of a Fractal FM3 / FM9, etc. I don't get why I can't program every single switch completely independent from the others so they can be one of 8 scenes, stomp switches, macros, preset up/down , alternating scenes, different functions for short press / long press, etc. ... Fractal felt SO powerful to me... with only 3 footswitches you could do SO much. BUT... I'm glad there is at least some MIDI implementation now.

 

[Grahams Groove]

The major update to this $1200 pedal is how you can buy a $200 something else to make it usable?

I have no reason to shill for DG, but this isn't unique to them. 1) Pretty much any device (MFX or other pedals) with MIDI capability require a MIDI controller or footswitch to unlock those functions. 2) Expansion of the MIDI capability on the Anagram is something I've seen lots of people asking for in this thread and on other Darkglass discussions. It makes sense to me that this was an early-ish software update relative to the launch...

 

[silky smoove]

The major update to this $1200 pedal is how you can buy a $200 something else to make it usable?

Not at all. It is currently usable without any additional devices. MIDI can be communicated both ways. In this sense you can use Anagram on its own to send program messages to any MIDI-capable device. Alternatively, you can EXPAND Anagram by adding any number of MIDI devices through its built-in MIDI ports or the USB-C connection.

 

[meisi]

The major update to this $1200 pedal is how you can buy a $200 something else to make it usable?

Anagram was useless before this update?

Cheapest midi footswitch is $35, not $200, btw.

 

[bruno40gr]

MIDI can be communicated both ways. In this sense you can use Anagram on its own to send program messages to any MIDI-capable device.

Mmm I was positive Anagram could only receive (not send) messages at this point?

 

[mundee]

Mmm I was positive Anagram could only receive (not send) messages at this point?

I need this feature (send midi from Anagram) so bad for my simple set up

 

[silky smoove]

You can set knob binding macros for this. I actually explain that in the video on DG’s YouTube channel

I just watched the video. It seems like my dream of stomp mode with eight working footswitches is not currently available if I’m understanding things correctly. Using scene mode for the onboard switches and then supplementing that with the five macro footswitches and a bit of clever programming could likely achieve the same result. I’ll play around with it.

 

[IvanBassist]

I'm with you on that one. I know Macros will help a lot but nothing beats the flexibility of a Fractal FM3 / FM9, etc. I don't get why I can't program every single switch completely independent from the others so they can be one of 8 scenes, stomp switches, macros, preset up/down , alternating scenes, different functions for short press / long press, etc. ... Fractal felt SO powerful to me... with only 3 footswitches you could do SO much. BUT... I'm glad there is at least some MIDI implementation now.

Doing this requires an entire reworking of the UI/UX. It’s not as simple as saying “we will just add more scenes”

 

[IvanBassist]

I just watched the video. It seems like my dream of stomp mode with eight working footswitches is not currently available if I’m understanding things correctly. Using scene mode for the onboard switches and then supplementing that with the five macro footswitches and a bit of clever programming could likely achieve the same result. I’ll play around with it.

It’s actually pretty simple. Just set each binding to control the on/off state of a block and then with midi set each footswitch to send CC20-25 with values 1/127

 

[IvanBassist]

The major update to this $1200 pedal is how you can buy a $200 something else to make it usable?

You can also trigger all these changes from a DAW, which is really helpful for bands that have their entire show midi synced

 

[iTzPrime]

Is there any accessible changelog/patch notes ? I can't find it on the website.

 

[johnxrobertson]

I have the same issue with my Anagram PSU which I bought last week. I've emailed support and am waiting for a reply. Horrible ground hum with the supplied PSU which isn't present when I power it via USB or use my CIOKS.

Hmm. Does anyone know how long it takes for Darkglass to respond to support messages? I messaged them regarding the PSU hum on Friday last week and again on Monday and heard nothing so far.

 

[LowFrequenC]

You can also trigger all these changes from a DAW, which is really helpful for bands that have their entire show midi synced

Hey Ivan!

Is there a CC number to enter/exit the tuner or is that only available on the Darkglass MIDI foot switch?

Thanks in advance!