Harmonic tremolo is the term used to describe the process of splitting an incoming signal into high and low pass filters, before modulating with an LFO split into 180°. This effect has been taken to the next level with the Night Wire, a harmonic tremolo pedal with advanced features. One of the innovations of the Night Wire is its ability to adjust the centre point of each filter, changing the tonal quality of a given patch. The Frequency toggle switch shifts between LFO, Manual and Attack modes. When set to LFO the filters are regularly swept at speeds dictated by the Frequency knob. During Manual operation the Frequency knob fixes the centre position, and in Attack mode it is the picking of the guitar that dynamically sweeps the signal (the Frequency knob controls the range). The upper tremolo section also has a Rate toggle switch, moving between Attack and Manual. Select Manual to use the Rate knob to determine tremolo speed. In contrast, use Attack mode to set the speed dynamically as you play, with Rate adjusting the sensitivity.
After determining the main behavioural characteristics of the pedal, the Depth knob sets how emphasised the envelope is, intensifying as the control is turned clockwise. The Level knob allows for the fine-tuning of the finished output volume. Earthquaker Devices pedals are hand-made in the USA.
The main features of the Earthquaker Devices Night Wire include: