A First Look at the Darkglass Anagram: Pedal Review
When innovation meets obsession, the result is something like the Darkglass Anagram—a cutting-edge multi-effects platform purpose-built for bass players who demand more from their tone shaping tools. Designed to push the envelope of what’s possible on both stage and in the studio, the Anagram is more than a pedal—it’s a fully integrated ecosystem where sonic precision meets creative freedom.
Total Tone Control, Redefined
At its heart, Anagram is a multi-effect powerhouse fueled by a six-core DSP architecture. It’s fast—ultra-low latency fast—and optimized to handle everything from detailed studio tracking to live performances where timing is everything. Its dedicated operating system handles real-time audio with the kind of efficiency you’d expect from a pro-grade rack unit, all in a pedalboard-friendly format.
Whether you’re looking to sculpt your ideal tone or dive into experimental soundscapes, Anagram’s extensive customization and seamless integration with the Darkglass Suite make it an unparalleled creative tool.
Touchscreen Simplicity, Complex Power
The 7-inch high-brightness touchscreen is a standout feature, offering an intuitive interface that makes navigating complex chains and tweaking parameters feel effortless. Add in three programmable footswitches and six endless rotary knobs, and you’ve got total hands-on control whether you’re dialing in tones at home or on stage mid-set.
Future-Proof and Flexible
Anagram isn’t just powerful now—it’s built to grow. With support for NAM and AIDA-X neural models, cabinet IRs, and an upgradeable architecture, it’s ready for future DSP blocks and third-party content. You can load up to 24 simultaneous effects blocks, arrange complex parallel chains, or run simple, clean setups—all from one sleek device.
A Deep Dive Into the DSP Library:
- Amps & Cabs: Explore a curated range of iconic and modern bass amp tones with matched cabinet simulations.
- Overdrive & Distortion: Tap into Darkglass’s signature drive engines and detailed distortion captures.
- EQ, Filters & Dynamics: Precision-shape your sound using advanced equalizers, envelope filters, compressors, and gates.
- Modulation & Pitch: Add motion and texture with choruses, flangers, octavers, and pitch shifters.
- Delays & Reverbs: From slapback echo to cavernous halls, sculpt your space with analog and digital ambiance.
- Utilities & Loaders: Manage routing, split signals, and handle complex configurations with ease.
Tools That Keep You in the Groove
- Looper: One-touch looping that runs independently from presets, letting you experiment freely without disrupting your set.
- Tuner & Tempo: Dial in your tuning with accuracy, then lock your time-based effects with BPM control from 40–300.
- Mixer & Global EQ: Balance levels for line, XLR, and headphone outs. Add polish across your rig with the Global EQ.
Seamless Darkglass Integration
Connect to the Darkglass Suite to upload IRs, manage presets, and explore user-generated tones via the Preset Hub. With USB-C connectivity offering MIDI, audio interface support, and firmware updates, staying in sync with your digital workflow is effortless.
Versatile I/O for Any Setup
- Instrument Input: Standard 1/4” mono jack.
- Send/Return: Flexible jacks for stereo or insert loops, or expression pedals.
- Headphone Out: 3.5mm jack with adjustable gain.
- Main Outputs: Dual 1/4” and XLR with ground lift—perfect for stereo rigs or FOH/mixer integration.
- USB-C Port: Power, audio interface, Darkglass Suite access, and USB MIDI.
- MIDI I/O: 3.5mm TRS for external control.
- 9V DC: Standard center-negative, with included adapter or USB-C PD-compatible.
The Bottom Line
With the Anagram, Darkglass hasn’t just created a new pedal—they’ve designed an ecosystem where analog soul meets digital muscle. It’s a bass-focused beast engineered to inspire, built to perform, and ready to evolve with you. Whether you’re chasing the perfect tone or pushing sonic boundaries, the Anagram is the new benchmark for what’s possible in bass effects.
