This page about Sherman Filterbank is a stub. You can help improve it:
Pricing and availability
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Dive into the world of sound manipulation with the Sherman Filterbank, a versatile and dynamic effects processor that has become a staple in studios around the globe. Known for its multi-mode analog filtering capabilities, this signal processor offers musicians and producers a comprehensive suite of tools for sound sculpting. Whether you're looking to add a subtle touch of warmth or completely transform your audio, the Filterbank provides an impressive range of possibilities.
The Filterbank excels in both studio and live settings, thanks to its robust build and intuitive interface. It features a pair of dynamic filters that can be used independently or in series, providing a wide spectrum of sound shaping options. The inclusion of an envelope follower, LFO, and distortion circuit gives you the power to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories. This is not just a piece of gear; it's a creative partner that invites experimentation.
With its distinctive sound character, the Sherman Filterbank is a favorite among electronic music producers and sound designers. Its ability to produce everything from subtle enhancements to wild sonic transformations sets it apart from other effects processors. If you're looking to inject some personality and depth into your productions, the Filterbank is a tool you'll want in your arsenal.
Key Features:
- Multi-mode analog filtering
- Independent or serial filter operation
- Envelope follower and LFO for dynamic modulation
- Built-in distortion circuit for added grit
- Ideal for studio and live performance
- Known for its unique and characterful sound
Videos
Gearjunkies
Sherman Filterbank review and audio demo
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sherman Filterbank.
Comparisons
-
Some users prefer the Electrix Filterfactory for its wider sweet spots and easier usability compared to the Sherman Filterbank, which can be difficult to control.
Source -
The Analog Heat offers multiple distortion flavors and can function as an audio interface, unlike the Sherman Filterbank, which excels in creating intense overdrive sounds.
Source -
The Analog Heat and Acid Box are favored by some users for their stereo capabilities, which the Sherman Filterbank lacks, impacting its versatility in certain setups.
Source -
While some users found the Sherman Filterbank's distortion unsatisfactory compared to the 100 Grit and Angle Grinder, others appreciate its unique sound and improv potential.
Source
Value and pricing
-
Some consider the Analog Heat expensive, but its versatility and stereo processing capabilities justify the price for certain users, while the Sherman offers a specific tonal character.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
The Sherman Filterbank is praised for its harmonic filter relations, enhancing tonal complexity, making it ideal for users seeking to explore unique sound textures.
Source -
The Sherman Filterbank is featured prominently on the Chemical Brothers' album "Exit Planet Dust," highlighting its potential for creating distinctive audio textures in professional productions.
Source -
It's noted for its potential as a standalone instrument capable of producing unique FX and sounds, especially when "pinged" to create interesting audio textures.
Source
User experience
-
Owners mention the Sherman Filterbank produces a "blown out speaker" distortion, which may not suit those preferring high-frequency, sizzling distortion.
Source -
A limiter is often recommended by owners to manage the wild and uncontrollable output, helping to keep the sound in check.
Source -
Owners note that achieving desired sounds is challenging due to the narrow sweet spots, requiring careful adjustment to avoid overly aggressive tones.
Source -
The Sherman Filterbank's gain staging may benefit from MIDI-triggered envelopes, and the compact version is preferred to avoid patching issues from the back.
Source -
The learning curve is steep, but the Filterbank is praised for its extensive capabilities, such as overdrive textures, multiple envelope modes, and significant low-end enhancement.
Source
Features and functionality
-
The Sherman Filterbank's amplitude modulation is highlighted for its unique sound, though some users find it less pronounced compared to its frequency modulation.
Source -
The envelopes on the Sherman Filterbank require a particularly hot input signal to trigger effectively, which can inadvertently increase distortion levels.
Source -
The Sherman Filterbank employs a rare switched capacitor filter topology, delivering a distinct sound that is polarizing yet described as a "secret sauce" by some users.
Source -
The Sherman Filterbank includes CV inputs for FM, AM, and ADSR triggering, with separate and mixed outputs, making it versatile for modular setups.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
During a studio tour with Future Music Magazine, Steve Mac says [@ 12:32] about his Sherman Filterbank:
“Here we have an old Sherman Filterbank, which is obviously in the corner here behind everything. It doesn't get used that much anymore but I still like these. I used to have the big one. They did a limited run of them, it was four in one box. I think The Chemical Brothers got the first one and we had number 20 or so."
"After we got to tape we really went to work. Engineer Bill Munyon and I transferred ‘the take’ to Pro Tools where we could replace or add sounds and effects, and correct both the midi and human latency. Often we made additional passes through my Fireworx or put various combinations through my Dayking EQ or guitar amps (a matchless or small smokie amp) and re-mic them to add air, space and fizz. A Sherman Filter Bank was also used in abundance to further recharge the limp sounds. Some PT plug-ins (amp farm, vari-fi, lo-fi, pitch change, time expansion, Reso & Bruno) were used. On a few occasions additional Paiste cymbals, Saragosa percussion, Taos drums, a bit of found percussion or an old drumkit were overdubbed. As we approached the final mix my drums might be as wide as 28 tracks, so instruments were sub mixed in ProTools down to 14 faders on the mixing desk. The general approached was 2 tracks each for kicks, snares, toms, cyms, samples, loops & effects. I generally had 3 snare sounds (original, ringy and crispy) arranged in stereo on the two snare faders. Similarly the feet (boomy, chesty, etc.) were brought up on two faders and cymbal faders might include metal overdubs or metallic effects and so on. Additional compression and a bit of 'verb were added at the mix. That's basically it."
In a Facebook post, Kid606 is shown using the Sherman Filterbank, highlighting its role in his studio setup.
What were the key pieces of gear for the album? Do you like machines with versatility?
Ableton Wave Alchemy drum samples Korg MS 20 Overstayer Saturator SoundToys plugins U-He Diva Culture Vulture Culture Rooster Metasonix s1000 TL Audio Ivory 5013 Sherman Filter Bank Roland SH101 Shure SM58
Ariwa Sounds is Mad Professor's studio in London since 1979. There is an extensive list of the studio gear provided on the website.
Album Usage
The Sherman Filterbank has been featured on the following albums:
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 Sherman Filterbank, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
More Sherman Effects Processors
Community setups
Similar
Most Popular Effects Processors
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
curbsitterGear IQ 380
-