Review: Bananana Effects Matryoshka Bass Synth Pedal

Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Source Audio for this review. However, this does not influence our opinion or the content of our review. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.

The Source Audio C4 Synth is a compact yet powerful effects pedal that brings the expansive capabilities of a modular synthesizer to guitar and bass players. Designed to deliver a wide array of synth tones, from vintage analog sounds to cutting-edge digital effects, the C4 Synth offers both simplicity for plug-and-play use and depth for those seeking extensive sound customization.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Upon opening the box, you’ll find the C4 Synth pedal, necessary connectivity cables, a 9V power supply, a quick reference card for initial setup, and some Source Audio merchandise. The pedal’s metal enclosure exudes durability, indicating it’s built to withstand the rigors of both stage and studio environments.

Onboard Controls and Workflow

The C4 Synth is designed with user-friendly controls to facilitate immediate exploration:

• Input Knob: Adjusts the volume level of the input signal.
• Mix Knob: Balances the dry signal with the synthesized voices.
• Control 1 & Control 2 Knobs: These are preset-dependent and modify specific parameters within each selected sound.
• Three-Position Toggle Switch: Allows selection between presets 1, 2, and 3.

Engaging the ALT Mode by pressing the Control Input button temporarily reassigns the knobs to alternative functions:

• Input Knob: Becomes Sensitivity Control, adjusting the envelope response.
• Mix Knob: Serves as a Volume control for overall output.
• Toggle Switch: Accesses presets 4, 5, and 6.

This mode exits automatically after five seconds of inactivity, ensuring a seamless user experience.

Footswitch and Connectivity

The pedal features a single footswitch for effect engagement and bypass, with a status LED indicating active status. Dual input and output jacks support stereo configurations, enhancing versatility in various rig setups.

Factory Presets

Out of the box, the C4 Synth offers six factory presets that showcase its diverse capabilities:

1. Pure Octaves
2. Taurus
3. EDM Swell
4. Poly Pitch Swell
5. Funk Dragon
6. Flashlight Bass

These presets serve as a solid foundation, demonstrating the pedal’s range from subtle enhancements to bold synth expressions. Each preset explores different waveforms, pitch shifting capabilities, LFO controls, and more, allowing for a very broad overview of the C4’s capabilities.

Deep Customization with the Neuro App

To unlock the C4 Synth’s full potential, the Neuro App (available for both desktop and mobile platforms) provides extensive editing and preset management capabilities:

• Preset Library: Access over 10,000 user-generated and Source Audio presets.
• Parameter Editing: Dive deep into sound design with detailed control over synth parameters.
• Firmware Updates: Keep the pedal updated with the latest features and improvements.
• MIDI and Expression Integration: Enhance performance dynamics through external control options.

This level of customization transforms the C4 Synth into a versatile tool for both live performances and studio sessions.

Four-Voice Synth Engine

At its core, the C4 Synth operates as a four-voice synthesizer, allowing for complex and rich soundscapes:

• Waveform Selection: Choose from Saw, Square, Sine, and more.
• Pitch Processing: Utilize both monophonic and polyphonic pitch shifting.
• Signal Routing: Apply distortions, filters, and modulation to each voice.
• LFO Control: Implement tremolo effects with independent Low-Frequency Oscillators.

Notably, the dry signal can also be processed through the distortion and filter sections, enabling the pedal to function as:

• Distortion Pedal: Utilizing Source Audio’s Aftershock drive options.
• Envelope Filter: Similar to the Source Audio Spectrum filter.
• Standalone Synthesizer: Creating entirely synthesized tones.

This flexibility makes the C4 Synth a multifaceted addition to any pedalboard.

Sound Design and Modulation Features

The C4 Synth offers a comprehensive suite of tools for sound sculpting:

1. Tremolo and LFO Modulation:
   • Two independent LFOs capable of modulating filters, pitch, and amplitude.
   • Various wave shapes, including sine, square, and sawtooth.
   • Synchronization options for rhythmic consistency.
2. Distortion and Filtering:

1. Analog-inspired drive effects and bit-crushing capabilities.
2. A versatile filter section offering low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and more.
3. FM Synthesis and Step Sequencing:

1. Frequency Modulation synthesis introduces complex, evolving textures.
2. A 16-step sequencer allows for rhythmic modulation per voice, facilitating arpeggiated and pulsating synth lines.

Tracking and Playability

A standout feature of the C4 Synth is its exceptional tracking performance:

Responsive Note Detection: Handles rapid note changes with minimal latency, ensuring a smooth and natural playing experience. 

Polyphonic Tracking: Accurately processes chords and multi-note passages, making it a viable option for both lead and accompaniment playing. 

Dynamic Sensitivity: Adapts well to playing dynamics, offering expressive control over synth parameters based on pick attack and volume variations.

While many synth pedals struggle with note-tracking accuracy, the C4 Synth stands out for its reliability. This is especially beneficial for bassists and guitarists who rely on precise articulation and fast passages. The pedal’s ability to recognize and process individual notes with clarity means that complex lines, fast-picked runs, and chord voicings translate into well-defined synth sounds without unwanted glitches or tracking errors.

MIDI and Expression Control

For those looking to integrate the C4 Synth into a larger performance rig, the pedal supports MIDI functionality through the Source Audio Neuro Hub or direct USB connection. MIDI control expands the flexibility of the pedal by allowing external hardware or DAWs to manipulate various parameters in real-time. Expression pedal support further enhances the pedal’s versatility, enabling live adjustments of filter sweeps, modulation depth, and other synth characteristics.

Users can assign the expression pedal to multiple parameters simultaneously, creating highly dynamic sound manipulations. Whether it’s controlling pitch shifts, filter resonance, or tremolo speed, the real-time tweakability elevates the C4 Synth beyond standard effects pedals and into the realm of fully interactive synthesis.

Real-World Applications

The Source Audio C4 Synth excels in a variety of musical applications:

• Funk and Groove: Perfect for bassists and guitarists looking to emulate classic analog synth bass tones and envelope filter effects in funk and electronic settings.
• Ambient and Experimental: With deep modulation and filtering options, the pedal shines in soundscapes and textural explorations, ideal for ambient and post-rock musicians.
• Electronic and EDM-Inspired Performances: EDM-style swells, step-sequenced rhythms, and arpeggiated synth lines make it a valuable tool for electronic music artists.
• Progressive Rock and Fusion: The ability to layer synth tones alongside traditional instrument sounds opens up creative possibilities for complex arrangements.

Limitations and Considerations

While the C4 Synth is an exceptionally powerful pedal, it does come with some considerations:

• Learning Curve: For users unfamiliar with synth architecture, diving into the Neuro App may feel overwhelming at first. However, Source Audio provides extensive documentation and community support to ease the transition.
• Limited Onboard Presets: Without external MIDI or app connectivity, the pedal is limited to six user-accessible presets. This may be a limitation for players who need a wider selection of tones readily available in a live setting.
• External Control Requirement: To fully unlock the pedal’s deep programming potential, reliance on the Neuro App or external MIDI controllers is necessary.

Conclusion

The Source Audio C4 Synth is a remarkable achievement in the realm of compact synthesizer pedals. With its four-voice synth engine, expansive modulation options, and deep customization through the Neuro App, it delivers an unparalleled level of sonic exploration for guitarists and bassists alike. The pedal’s superior tracking, rich preset library, and integration with MIDI and expression control make it a highly versatile and professional-grade tool.

For players who need instant access to synth tones without programming, the factory presets provide an excellent starting point. However, those willing to delve into the Neuro App will discover an entirely new world of sonic possibilities, making the C4 Synth one of the most flexible and powerful synth pedals on the market today. Whether you’re crafting vintage analog synth sounds or pushing the boundaries of experimental music, the C4 Synth is an essential addition to any pedalboard.

For more information, visit online at sourceaudio.net