Small in Size, BIG in Sound!
The world of bass synth pedals is filled with options ranging from classic analog-inspired designs to modern digital powerhouses. Today, we’re taking an in-depth look at the Matryoshka Synth Pedal by Bananana Effects, a boutique pedal company from Kyoto, Japan. Known for their innovative and compact designs, Bananana Effects has developed a reputation for crafting pedals that break the mold of traditional effects, including the Abracadabra Shimmer Reverb, Aurora Pitch Shift Delay, Mandala Glitch Pedal, and, of course, the Matryoshka Bass Synth.
Unlike many conventional bass synth pedals, the Matryoshka isn’t just an emulation of vintage synthesizers—it introduces new ways of sculpting bass synth sounds, offering a broad range of possibilities for experimental and conventional applications alike. In this review, we’ll explore its features, usability, and how it fits within the broader history of synth pedals.
Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Bananana Effects for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinions or the content of our reviews. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.
Bass synth pedals have been around for decades, tracing back to the Electro-Harmonix Bass Micro Synth, which was among the first to offer a true analog synthesizer experience in pedal form. Later, digital advancements brought us options like the Boss SYB-5, Source Audio C4, and EHX Synth9, which expanded the realm of synth sounds for bass and guitar players alike.The Matryoshka takes inspiration from these predecessors but distinguishes itself in key ways. While older pedals often focused on imitating classic analog synths or generating simple waveforms, the Matryoshka introduces a blend-centric approach, allowing users to mix clean bass tones with multiple synthesized layers for a hybrid analog-digital experience. It also incorporates sampling techniques, arpeggiation, and bit-crushing, which are features not commonly found in compact bass synth pedals.
Overview
Despite its incredibly small footprint (52 x 93 x 49mm, 200g), the Matryoshka is a powerful and versatile synth pedal that lets bassists tap into a wide variety of electronic textures. Whether you’re looking for subtle tonal shifts, gritty synth bass lines, or full-fledged experimental chaos, this pedal delivers.
With 8 different synth modes, a 3-channel mixing system, and a comprehensive set of control knobs, the Matryoshka is an excellent tool for those looking to push their bass sound beyond traditional boundaries.
Controls and Features
The Matryoshka is packed with eight tiny but effective controls:
- Mode – Selects one of the eight synth engines.
- Sens – Adjusts filter sensitivity and dynamic response.
- Octave – Blends between the original note and an octave down.
- Res – Controls filter resonance, allowing self-oscillation.
- Clean – Adjusts the clean bass level.
- Out1 – Controls the raw synth signal’s volume.
- Out2 – Controls the volume of the synth sound with effects applied.
- Ctrl – Variable function control, depending on the mode selected.
A Mode LED indicator changes color to reflect the selected mode, making it easy to navigate even in dark environments.
Synth Modes and Their Applications
The Matryoshka’s eight synth engines each offer a unique way of processing bass signals:
- Vibrato – Adds a subtle or extreme pitch modulation (great for ambient and chorus-like effects).
- LFO – Creates pulsating filter effects (perfect for dubstep wobbles or dynamic bass shifts).
- Distortion – A fuzz-like synth drive, excellent for rock and aggressive basslines.
- Bit Crush – Introduces lo-fi digital degradation, ideal for chiptune or industrial music.
- Pitch Shift – Allows harmonized synth effects (useful for adding thickness to solos).
- Arpeggiator – Generates rhythmic sequences (great for electronic and dance music basslines).
- Filter Sample & Hold – Produces randomized filter sweeps (perfect for unpredictable soundscapes).
- Aliaser Sample & Hold – A glitchy, stepped aliasing effect for experimental textures.
Practical uses for the Matryoshka?
- Live Performances: The blending capabilities allow bass players to use it seamlessly in a band setting without losing low-end definition.
- Studio Recording: Its rich textures work exceptionally well in electronic, funk, and experimental music production.
- Sound Design: The more extreme settings can be used to create unique textures for film scores, soundscapes, or glitch-based projects.
- Electronic & Dance Music: With its arpeggiator and pitch-shifting capabilities, this pedal is a dream for synth bass lovers who want to integrate their instrument into EDM-style tracks.
Performance and Sound
Tracking is one of the most crucial aspects of a synth pedal, and the Matryoshka performs exceptionally well in this area. Unlike some synth pedals that struggle to track lower frequencies or fast playing, the Matryoshka maintains accuracy as long as clean, single notes are played. Its ability to blend multiple layers of sound gives musicians a level of control often reserved for high-end synthesizers.
Sound-wise, the filter section is particularly expressive, and the distortion and bit-crushing effects are aggressive yet usable. The LFO, vibrato, and arpeggiator modes create cinematic, evolving textures, making it much more than just a standard synth pedal—it’s a creative tool that rewards experimentation.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
✔ Exceptional tracking for a synth pedal of this size.
✔ Wide range of sonic possibilities, from subtle to extreme.
✔ Compact and highly portable.
✔ Blending control allows for integration with traditional bass tones.
✔ LED Mode Indicator simplifies navigation.
Cons:
✘ Small knobs make on-the-fly adjustments tricky.
✘ Limited polyphony – does not handle complex chords well.
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Conclusion
The Bananana Effects Matryoshka is an innovative, powerful, and surprisingly versatile synth pedal for bassists looking to push their sonic boundaries. While its small size and tiny knobs may require some getting used to, the depth of control and sheer variety of tones it offers make it a must-have for experimental musicians.
It stands out in the crowded synth pedal market by offering creative layering options, unique effects, and high-quality tracking. Whether you’re a session bass player, a live performer, or a producer looking for fresh textures, the Matryoshka has something valuable to offer. If you’re interested in futuristic bass synth tones with deep customization, this pedal is well worth exploring.
For more information on Bananana Effects, visit their official webpage here!
