Catalinbread has once again cemented its reputation as a master of atmospheric effects, this time with the launch of the Soft Focus Ghost. This highly anticipated new reverb pedal isn’t just an update; it’s a significant evolution of their beloved Soft Focus, a shoegaze effects pedal designed to instantly transport guitarists into the ethereal, reverb-drenched sonic landscapes of ’90s bands like Slowdive.
The original Soft Focus pedal was lauded for condensing the sprawling, complex rackmount effects used on iconic albums like Souvlaki into a single, compact stompbox. The Soft Focus Ghost carries that legacy forward, dramatically enhancing the depth and modulation capabilities for modern players searching for the best shoegaze sound.
New ‘Ghost’ Control: Spectral Modulation for Massive Sound Wall
The most significant change in this new version is the introduction of the Ghost parameter, which replaces the Symph control of the original. This spectral addition is a prismatic, polychromatic phase-shifter built on innovative, non-traditional algorithms.
The Ghost knob unlocks an entirely new layer of spectral modulation, allowing users to morph their sound from slow, syrupy sweeps to dizzying, high-frequency phasing textures. It’s the key to creating those massive walls of sound that define the genre.

Streamlined Controls and Enhanced Versatility
While keeping the core Soft Focus DNA intact, Catalinbread has refined the user interface for greater control. A redesigned Mod knob now offers universal command, governing the modulation depth globally across the pedal’s chorus, phase, and reverb effects with a single, intuitive dial.
At its heart, the Soft Focus Ghost utilizes a rich plate-style reverb foundation, expanded with chorus and modulation that can swell from a subtle shimmer to oceanic, enveloping waves.
Independent controls for Verb, Mod, and the new Ghost parameter allow for precise layering, ensuring your tone can be as cavernous or as kaleidoscopic as your music demands.

Dedicated Mix Control
Crucially, Catalinbread has integrated a dedicated Mix control—a feature often absent in the original vintage rack patches that inspired the pedal. This addition makes the Soft Focus Ghost a remarkably versatile tool for any pedalboard.
- For adding a touch of ethereal atmosphere to a clean tone, the Mix can be dialed back.
- For players looking to drench their signal in dense, phase-shifting haze that dominates the mix, the control can be pushed all the way.
When paired with a favorite overdrive or fuzz pedal, the Soft Focus Ghost transforms simple chords into transcendent sonic cathedrals, making it an essential piece of guitar gear for atmospheric rock and dream pop musicians.
Price & Availability
The Catalinbread Soft Focus Ghost is available now, promising to be one of the best reverb pedals of 2025 for anyone pursuing that legendary ’90s shoegaze sound.
Available at Andertons, priced £179.99
Available at Sweetwater, priced $178.49
What other legendary vintage effects do you think Catalinbread should reimagine next?

More Information
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