The Setback is designed to strip away the distractions and focus entirely on the art of the reverse, while simultaneously introducing modern utility features like full MIDI implementation and stereo connectivity.
The Evolution of Reverse: From Ambient Washes to Ring Mod
While many delay pedals offer a “reverse” mode as an afterthought, Setback treats it as the main event. By manipulating the sample rate and playback speed, the pedal can transition from raging, robot-like ring modulation and shimmering pitch-shifted harmonies to classic reverse delays and crumbling, lo-fi grit.
The pedal’s versatility makes it a natural fit for genres requiring deep atmospheric layers, such as:
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Shoegaze & Dream Pop
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Ambient & Post-Rock
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Psychedelia
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Experimental Indie
Intuitive Controls, Infinite Possibilities
Despite its depth, the interface remains user-friendly, featuring four primary knobs and an array of secondary “Alt” functions:
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Mix: Perfectly blends your dry signal with the reversed wet signal.
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Speed: Adjusts the playback speed of the reverse, allowing for quantized pitch-shifting effects.
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Clock: Controls the sample rate (from 49 kHz down to 500 Hz). This alters the signal fidelity and delay time, stretching from crisp repeats to 24-second ambient washes.
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Div: Sets the subdivisions for the reverse timing, keeping your textures in sync with the composition.
Pro-Level Integration
Modern pedalboards require more than just great sound; they require control. OBNE has outfitted the Setback with:
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Full MIDI Control: Access and automate every parameter externally.
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Onboard Presets: Save and recall three distinct settings on the fly.
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Expression Input: Assignable to any control for hands-free parameter manipulation.
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Stereo I/O: True stereo signal path with analog dry-through to maintain your core tone’s integrity.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
Handmade in Oklahoma, USA, the Setback is built for both the studio and the stage.
| Feature | Specification |
| Sample Rate | 49 kHz down to 500 Hz |
| Max Delay Time | Up to 24 seconds at lowest clock setting |
| Bypass Modes | Selectable Buffered Trails or True Bypass |
| Switching | Soft-touch relay switching for silent operation |
| Power | 9V DC, 2.1 mm, ~350 mA current draw |
| I/O | Stereo Input/Output, Expression, MIDI |
Price & Where To Buy
“We live life forwards, but can only fully understand it backwards,” says the OBNE team. Setback aims to provide that same depth and understanding to your musical compositions.
The Old Blood Noise Endeavors Setback is available now.
Available at Guitar Center -$259
For more information and to hear sound clips, visit oldbloodnoise.com/setback.
#Old Blood Noise Endeavors
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