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Average Price: $180
Standard/Professional
$150
$601+
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Description
Dive into the digital age of sound with the Alexander Pedals Syntax Error, where the essence of a '90s computer crash meets modern guitar tech. With its ability to morph your guitar's tone into the nostalgic blips and bloops of retro video games, this pedal isn't just an effect—it's a portal to sonic exploration. From creating the gritty distortion reminiscent of an old-school arcade to emulating the ethereal soundscapes of a time-stretched boss battle, the Syntax Error is your ticket to redefining musical boundaries. Perfect for the adventurous musician looking to add a unique layer of sound to their repertoire, this pedal combines 32-bit processing with MIDI capability, offering unprecedented control and versatility.
Key Features:
- Emulates the sounds of '90s computer and video game audio
- Offers a wide range of sounds from glitchy modems to nostalgic game tones
- Includes four onboard presets for quick access to your favorite sounds
- Features 12 MIDI-accessible presets for extensive sound shaping
- Utilizes 32-bit processing for high-quality audio fidelity
- MIDI capable for seamless integration into any modern rig
Product specs
| Brand | Alexander Pedals |
| Model | Syntax Error |
| Finish | Graphic |
| Year | 2010s |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Ring Modulator Pedals |
FAQs
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What type of effects can the Alexander Pedals Syntax Error produce?
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The Alexander Pedals Syntax Error is capable of producing a range of digital glitch effects, including ring modulation, bit crushing, and sample rate reduction, making it ideal for experimental and electronic music sounds.
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Is the Alexander Pedals Syntax Error suitable for bass guitar?
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Yes, the Syntax Error works well with bass guitars, allowing bassists to explore unique digital textures and effects without losing low-end clarity.
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What power supply does the Alexander Pedals Syntax Error require?
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The Syntax Error requires a standard 9V DC power supply with a negative center pin, commonly used for most guitar pedals.
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Can the Alexander Pedals Syntax Error be used with other effects pedals?
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Absolutely, the Syntax Error can be integrated into any pedalboard setup, allowing for creative combinations with other effects like delays and reverbs.
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How does the ring modulation effect on the Syntax Error compare to other pedals?
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The ring modulation on the Syntax Error is highly customizable, offering a wide range of tonal possibilities that can be adjusted to create subtle or extreme modulation effects.
Videos
ProGuitarShopDemos
Alexander Pedals Syntax Error
Reviews
PROS
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Versatile with different modes for broad sound range
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Customizable sounds encourage experimental play
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Firmware updates add value over time
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Unique ring modulator options for distinctive tones
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Preset saving feature enhances playability
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Innovative stretch mode for novel soundscapes
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Granular-esque/shimmer delay options for ambient tones
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Supports experimental and original music creation
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Durable build quality for long-term use
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Company actively supports and stands behind the product
CONS
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Frequency shifter may be too weird for some
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Not suited for traditional blues and country music genres
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Alexander Pedals Syntax Error.
Features and functionality
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The Syntax Error 2 features a more intuitive layout and UI compared to the Neo series, making navigation of settings significantly easier.
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The Syntax Error XP lacks the pitch shifter and mini-sequencer from the V2 but offers two extra modes and an assignable LFO for modulation.
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The Syntax Error offers octave distortion, similar to the Fuzz Master General's no diode mode, focusing more on octave effects than fuzz.
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The pedal includes modes for harmonic tremolo, octave ring modulation distortion, swirly phaser, lush chorus, lofi and pitch-shifted slapback, glitchy sample and hold, and reverse time stretches.
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Comparisons
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Despite upgrading to the Spin FXcore chip, the Syntax Error 2's pitch-shifting algorithm remains unchanged from older models, unlike the OBNE Dark Star and Neunaber Immerse.
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The Boss PS-3, which uses the same FV-1 chip, demonstrates the importance of algorithm quality, with certain modes delivering superior pitch effects.
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The XP is noted to be less deep than the SE V2, making it more pedalboard-friendly, whereas the V2 is considered more of a studio tool.
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Compared to the CT5, Syntax Error stands out for more practical and subtle settings, unlike CT5's focus on pitch shifting/time stretching delays.
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Syntax Error and Particle overlap, but Particle excels in glitchy effects, while Syntax Error offers octave distortion and more practical settings.
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User experience
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Some users find the pitch-shifting algorithm harsh, likening it to "nails on a chalkboard," impacting their overall experience with the pedal.
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Owners of the V2 mention it feels more suitable for studio use rather than live performances due to its complexity.
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An owner uses the Syntax Error across various settings, from band rehearsals to university jazz combos, highlighting its versatility and portability.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings
1798
For glitchy, Tim Hecker-like soundscapes, Noise rock chaos, and psychedelic bliss.
I've had my Syntax Error for over a year now and it is still one of my favorite pedals. I love every preset on this thing from the Ring Mod preset which can be a standard ring modulator to a harmonic tremolo. Stretch is my go to preset for making "Haunt Me" soundscapes. It can be a reverse delay or if you place the buffer length and the play-back knobs past noon you'll get granular-esque/shimmer delay. The cubic distortion in conjunction with the bitcrushing can create a fuzz-like sound and comes with an LPF resonant filter to act as the tone knob (which you can also bypass turning it CCW). I can't even describe the Frequency Shifter, because it was just too weird for me, but I have been experimenting with it more and it's great for awesome ambient tones and when you dial in the redux it gets nasty and gnarly. I highly reccomend this pedal to anyone who wants to take their guitar down a more experimental route.
Artist usage
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In an Instagram post titled "the golden age of cool sounds pt II," Nick Reinhart showcases his use of the Alexander Pedals Syntax Error.
You can see the Syntax Error on the pedalboard behind the Hohner along with a Superball delay and a Boss Dimension C.
In this image, taken from his Premier Guitar interview, many of his studio pedals are photographed. One of the pedals in this photo is Alexander Syntax Error.
At 13:20 in the video "Squid - Full Performance (Live on KEXP)," Louis Borlase can be seen using the Alexander Pedals Syntax Error.
Guitarist Chris Buono confirms on his official website that he uses the Alexander Pedals Syntax Error.
When the Syntax Error dropped it was serious business – the kind I need to wrangle with. My instincts served me well not only when it comes to the gloriously destructive sounds I can conjure from the SE, but also the stellar services of one Matt Farrow.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Alexander Pedals Syntax Error, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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