Rush fans and tone chasers, rejoice. Alex Lifeson’s gear brand, Lerxst Amplification, has officially released the Analog Kid Chorus—a pedal designed to capture the lush, modulating textures that defined progressive rock in the early 1980s.
For decades, guitarists have sought to replicate the “shimmer” heard on seminal Rush albums like Permanent Waves, Moving Pictures, and Signals. While Lifeson’s original rig involved complex rack units and expensive vintage processors, the Lerxst Analog Kid condenses those legendary “golden era” sounds into a pedalboard-friendly enclosure.
A Dual-LFO Powerhouse
What sets the Analog Kid apart from the crowded chorus market is its true dual-LFO engine. Rather than offering a single modulation path, the pedal features two independent LFO circuits, each accessible via its own dedicated footswitch.
This architecture allows players to toggle between two distinct modulation presets in real time. You can set one side for a subtle, widening shimmer—perfect for “Limelight”—and the other for a deep, “seasick” swirl for more experimental passages.
For those seeking even more complexity, the two circuits can be synced via a Master Rate mode, or run independently to create evolving, multi-layered textures that move in unpredictable ways.
Beyond Standard Chorus: Vibrato and Stereo Width
While the pedal excels at classic 80s chorus, it isn’t a one-trick pony. The inclusion of a Vibrato mode pushes the unit into “warped vinyl” territory, making it a viable tool for lo-fi indie, psych-rock, and ambient soundscapes.
The pedal truly shines in a stereo configuration. When running two amps, the Analog Kid creates a massive, three-dimensional sonic spread. This immersive width is the secret sauce for achieving that “wall of sound” guitar tone that Alex Lifeson mastered during the 1980s.
Road-Ready Design
Despite its complex internal logic, the Analog Kid is built for the modern pedalboard. It features:
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Top-mounted I/O: Saves precious horizontal space on crowded boards.
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Rugged Construction: Built to the boutique standards expected of the Lerxst brand.
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Standard Power: Runs on 9V DC (150mA), making it compatible with most isolated power supplies.
Pricing and Availability
The Lerxst Analog Kid Chorus is available now for $299. Given the boutique build quality and the direct involvement of a guitar legend, it is positioned as a premium professional tool for serious players.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
Does the Analog Kid require a special power supply?
No, it runs on a standard 9V DC isolated power supply (150mA). Note that there is no internal battery compartment, so a power brick or wall adapter is required.
Can I use this for non-Rush music?
Absolutely. While tuned to Alex Lifeson’s preferences, the dual-LFO and Vibrato modes make it versatile enough for everything from 80s New Wave and Goth to modern Dream Pop and Shoegaze.
Is it a digital or analog pedal?
While the name “Analog Kid” pays homage to the Rush song, the pedal utilizes a sophisticated engine to recreate those classic analog-style bucket-brigade textures with modern reliability and control.
What is the benefit of the “LFO Direction” switch?
It changes the phase relationship of the modulation, allowing the “pulse” of the chorus to feel more or less predictable, adding a layer of organic movement to your sound.
The Verdict
Score: 7.2 / 10
The Lerxst Analog Kid isn’t just another chorus pedal with a celebrity name attached. It is a highly versatile modulation workstation. The dual-LFO design is a game-changer for live performers who need to switch textures mid-song, and the stereo spread is among the best in its class.
While the $299 price tag is a bit of an investment, the build quality and unique routing options justify the cost for any player serious about their modulation.
Pros:
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Dual-LFO design offers unparalleled flexibility.
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Stunning stereo image.
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Beautifully captures the Moving Pictures era “shimmer.”
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Top-mounted jacks for board efficiency.
Cons:
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The premium price point may be high for casual players.
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No battery option (standard for modern high-draw pedals).
#Lerxst Analog Kid
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