Source Audio Announces the Pathways: The Ultimate Stereo Reverb & Tremolo Pedal
The Source Audio Pathways brings iconic reverb and tremolo together in one powerful stompbox featuring stereo I/O, MIDI control, and boutique tones.
Source Audio has just introduced its latest stompbox, the Pathways Reverb and Tremolo. Aimed at guitarists who want the quintessential amplifier effect pairing without sacrificing pedalboard space, the Pathways combines lush ambience and buttery pulsation into one highly capable unit.
Priced at $349.00 / £349.00, this dual-engine pedal delivers immediate, boutique-quality tones right out of the box, with deep customization for tweak-heavy players.
A Classic Combination, Modernized
Reverb and tremolo have been the foundational effects of guitar tone for decades. One adds dimension, and the other adds motion. Source Audio leans into this history by delivering high-fidelity algorithms that capture the magic of vintage analog hardware without the noise or unpredictability.
Whether you are chasing surf-rock springy splash, cinematic ambient swells, or a rhythmic optical chop, the Pathways is built to be an intuitive, musical tool. Importantly, it features an analogue dry-through path, ensuring your core guitar tone remains latency-free and untouched.
Authorized Dealers
The Sonic Engines
The pedal packs the equivalent of two boutique pedals into one enclosure. Here is a breakdown of the onboard sounds:
| Effect Type | Modes Available | Sound Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Reverb & Echo | Spring | Bright, lively, classic tube-amp splash |
| Spring Tank | Deep "drip" and resonance, vintage outboard style | |
| Plate | Smooth, dense, studio-grade decay | |
| Hall | Massive, expansive, cinematic space | |
| Room | Natural, intimate acoustic environments | |
| Slapback | Quick, percussive tape-style reflection | |
| Echo | BBD-style rhythmic delay (up to 288ms) | |
| Tremolo | Optical | Clear, direct rhythmic pulse (classic amp style) |
| Bias | Warm, fluid, tube-bias breathing effect | |
| Harmonic | Rich, swirling frequency modulation |
Pro-Level Features & Connectivity
While the front panel is designed for immediate satisfaction—featuring dedicated controls for Reverb Time, Tone, Mix, and Tremolo Speed and Depth—the Pathways hides immense power under the hood.
- Dual Footswitches: Operate reverb and tremolo independently. The Tremolo switch also doubles as a tap-tempo controller.
- Stereo I/O: Full stereo inputs and outputs for massive, immersive soundscapes.
- Deep Presets: Store 16 presets directly on the pedal, with access to 128 via MIDI.
- MIDI & Control: Equipped with 3.5mm (1/8") TRS MIDI In/Thru and a dedicated control port for external expression.
- USB-C Integration: Connects seamlessly to the Neuro 3.0 app for deep preset editing and MIDI over USB.
- Sub-divisions: A physical switch lets you instantly select between quarter-note, eighth-note, and triplet tremolo pulses.
Our Verdict
The Source Audio Pathways is a triumph of utility and tone. By combining two distinct, high-definition engines into a single footprint, it justifies its premium price tag.
The decision to make the pedal sound brilliant straight from the front panel—while retaining Source Audio's legendary deep-dive MIDI and Neuro app capabilities—makes it a top-tier choice for both plug-and-play traditionalists and modern stereo rig architects. It is a genuine "always-on" contender for almost any pedalboard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I run the reverb and tremolo independently?
Yes. The pedal features dedicated dual footswitches, allowing you to turn each effect on or off completely independently of the other.
Does the Pathways have tap tempo?
Yes. The Tremolo footswitch doubles as a tap tempo control, allowing you to lock in your modulation speed on the fly.
Is the Source Audio Pathways true bypass?
The pedal features selectable bypass routing. You can choose between True Bypass or Analogue Buffered Bypass depending on your pedalboard's needs.
What power supply does it require?
The Pathways requires a 9V DC (center negative, 2.1mm) power supply with a current draw of approximately 180 mA. A correct power supply is included in the box.
Can I use it with a bass or a synthesizer?
Absolutely. With its full-frequency response, high-fidelity algorithms, and stereo inputs/outputs, the Pathways works exceptionally well with synthesizers, drum machines, and bass guitars.
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