Uni-Vibe
TheUni-Vibe,also marketed as theJax Vibra-Chorus,[1]is afootpedal-operatedphaserorphase shifterfor creatingchorusandvibratosimulations forelectric organorguitar.Designed by audio engineer Fumio Mieda,[2]it was introduced in the 1960s by Japanese company Shin-ei (at the time Honey) originally branded as the Vibra-Chorus. The effect (now named Uni-Vibe) was modified to have easier access to its fuse, and a speed control foot pedal was added. It was later released in North America byUnivoxin 1968.[1][3]
It is commonly thought the Uni-Vibe is intended to emulate the "Dopplersound "of aLeslie speaker.However Fumio Mieda revealed in an interview the effect was based on hearing radio signals (like Radio Moscow) undergoing “atmospheric modulation”. The effect has made its mark on tracks likeRobin Trower's "Bridge of Sighs",Jimi Hendrix's "Machine Gun"andPink Floyd's "Breathe".[3]
Overview
[edit]The effect, though often associated with chorus, is in fact created through a staggered series of phasing filters and an optical circuit utilizingLDRs(Light Dependent Resistor) and an incandescent bulb inside a light shield with a reflective interior, unlike the usually aligned filters of a normal phasing effect. Unlike most other phaser pedals, this is achieved without the use ofop-amps.
The Uni-Vibe phase shifter was known for its throbbing, hypnotic pulse and lo-fi sweep. These unique effects set it apart from other modulation-type effects at the time.[1]
(exhibited at Expo Pink Floyd)
The Shin-ei Uni-Vibe was also sold as aUnivoxproduct.
As of 2020[update],"Uni-Vibe" is aregistered trademarkofDunlop Manufacturing, Inc.[4]
Notable users of the Uni-Vibe have includedJimi Hendrix,Robin Trower,Trey Anastasio,andDavid GilmourofPink Floyd.[5]
References
[edit]- ^abcHarry Shapiro, Michael Heatley, Roger Mayer,Jimi Hendrix Gear,page 120,Voyageur Press
- ^Molenda, Mike; Pau, Les (2007).The Guitar Player Book: 40 Years of Interviews, Gear, and Lessons from the World's Most Celebrated Guitar Magazine.Hal Leonard. p. 222.
- ^ab"Uni-Vibe History".classicamplification.net.Retrieved2021-07-11.
- ^"Trademarks".Dunlop Manufacturing, Inc. 2020. Archived fromthe originalon 2020-08-30.Retrieved2020-08-30.
- ^Tolinski, Brad. "Welcome to the Machines".Guitar World(September 1994).
External links
[edit]- Keen, R. G. (1998)."The Technology of the Univibe".GEO: The Guitar Effects Oriented Web Page.Archived fromthe originalon 2007-06-22.Retrieved2007-06-22.
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