Strymon's TimeLine MX is a game-changer for delay enthusiasts, offering a powerful and versatile pedal that redefines the concept of delay-plus-reverb. With 12 engines, dual-engine routing, and a five-minute looper, it's a feature-rich beast that will delight guitarists and producers alike.
What makes the TimeLine MX truly special is its ability to blend delay and reverb seamlessly. Eleven delay engines, including the new Oil Can, Spectral, Drum, and MultiTap algorithms, alongside updated versions of classic TimeLine sounds, provide an extensive palette of delay effects. The twelfth engine is a reverb, allowing you to create a delay-plus-reverb pedal without any additional gear. This dual-engine routing is a significant upgrade from the original TimeLine, offering more creative possibilities.
The Digital engine is a standout feature, offering four distinct voicings: 24/96 for clean, modern delay, ADM for snappy 80s character, 12 Bit for darker, warmer repeats, and Classic, which perfectly replicates the original TimeLine sound. This level of versatility ensures that you can achieve a wide range of tones, from subtle to extreme.
The integrated five-minute stereo looper is another game-changer. With a 1 Button Mode that stays active without switching to a dedicated looper mode, it's incredibly user-friendly. You can build layers mid-performance, and MIDI access to reverse, redo, and half-speed functions means you can manipulate your sound on the fly without leaving the looper mode. This level of control is a significant improvement over traditional looper pedals.
On the signal path, Strymon has taken a thoughtful approach. A JFET input preamp and an analog dry path ensure that the dry signal remains untouched by digital conversion, preserving the purity of your sound. Stereo I/O with a hardware insert supports various setups, including stereo effects loops, wet/dry, and wet/dry/wet configurations. MIDI connectivity via USB-C, TRS, or DIN, along with Nixie 2 editor support, provides ample options for controlling and customizing your setup.
The EXP input is a versatile feature, accommodating expression pedals, MultiSwitch, and MultiSwitch Plus, as well as handling TRS MIDI. True bypass with relay switching and buffered bypass options further enhance the pedal's flexibility. These features make the TimeLine MX a highly customizable and adaptable tool for musicians.
In conclusion, Strymon's TimeLine MX is a must-have pedal for anyone seeking a delay-plus-reverb solution. Its dual-engine routing, versatile delay engines, and user-friendly looper make it a powerful tool for creative expression. With its high-quality build and extensive feature set, it's a pedal that will inspire and delight musicians for years to come. Personally, I think it's a game-changer in the world of effects pedals, offering a level of versatility and control that was previously unimaginable.
