Electro-Harmonix (EHX) has once again redefined the boundaries of guitar effects with the release of the EHX Pico Atomic Cluster Spectral Decomposer. Dubbed a “Spectral Decomposer,” this compact, glitchy synth pedal promises a wholly unique, experimental experience for musicians across New York City and the global gear market.
Deconstruct Your Signal: What is the Atomic Cluster?
The Electro-Harmonix Atomic Cluster is unlike any effect pedal the company has produced before. Utilizing a proprietary algorithm, the pedal reduces the frequency resolution of an instrument’s signal, transforming the input into a spectrum of oscillating, pixelated, and rhythmic tones.
It effectively breaks down your instrument’s sound to an “atomic level” and interpolates it into a variety of musical and whimsical sounds, making it a must-have for ambient music producers and experimental guitarists.
The resulting effects range from:
- Glitchy lo-fi cadences
- Ambient pixelated synth pads
- Auto-generated arpeggios
- Rhythmic step filter effects
Core Controls for Sonic Manipulation
The pedal’s versatility is managed through a streamlined set of controls, packed into EHX’s ultra-compact Pico form factor, perfect for maximizing pedalboard space in any NYC studio or cramped stage setup.
| Control | Function | Sonic Impact |
| ATOMS | Sets the number of simultaneous resonant oscillations. | Higher settings are closer to the input signal; lower settings create a more pixelated, glitchy, single-note sound. |
| SPEED | Adjusts the refresh rate of the oscillations. | Slower speeds create a rhythmic step filter effect; faster speeds result in chaotic, random tones. Also supports tap tempo for perfect synchronization. |
| MODE | Toggles between SHARP and SMOOTH oscillation transition envelopes. | SHARP provides instant transitions for an immediate, rhythmic effect. SMOOTH creates gradual fades for lush, ambient soundscapes. |
The unit also includes standard VOL (Output Volume) and BLEND (Wet/Dry Mix) controls, allowing players to dial in the perfect mix of the deconstructed signal with their original tone.
Versatile Tonal Tool for Any Musician
While initially appealing to electric guitar and bass players, the Atomic Cluster is designed to work seamlessly with keyboards, synthesizers, and other electronic instruments. Its unique lo-fi effect and spectral decomposition capabilities make it an invaluable tool for adding an ethereal, atmospheric scope to virtually any audio signal.
Key FeaturesÂ
- Product: EHX Pico Atomic Cluster Spectral Decomposer
- Format: Ultra-compact Pico pedal
- Genre Focus: Ambient, Glitch, Experimental, Synth effects
- Target Audience: Guitarists, Bassists, Producers, Electronic Musicians
Price & Availability
The Electro-Harmonix Pico Atomic Cluster comes with a 9V power supply and is now available through major retailers, including Sweetwater, as well as authorized EHX dealers worldwide. Musicians seeking to buy glitch effects pedals or compact synth pedals should look no further than this groundbreaking new release from the legendary effects brand.
Available now at Sweetwater, priced $129
Available now at Thomann, priced €129
More Information
#EHX #Electro Harmonix
This article may contain affiliate links to Andertons, DeathCloud, Fender, Gear4Music, Sweetwater, and Thomann that help finance the running costs of GuitarBomb. We will receive a small commission if you buy something through these links. Don’t worry; you pay the same price, and it costs you no extra to use these affiliate links for your purchases.
