A Universe of Sound: The Strymon BigSky MX Review

A Universe of Sound: The Strymon BigSky MX Review Sound on Another Level

Overview

The original Strymon BigSky has been a gold standard for pedalboard reverb for over a decade, but the BigSky MX aims for an even higher throne (Scapelliti). It’s not just a pedal; it's a complete "reverb workstation" packed with a massively powerful new processor that allows it to run two distinct reverb engines at once (Kaminski). This positions the BigSky MX as a premium piece of gear that blurs the line between a stompbox and high-end studio outboard equipment, intended to be a definitive reverb solution for serious musicians ("Strymon BigSky MX Review").

Key Features

Professional Reviews Summary

The consensus among professional reviewers is overwhelmingly positive, hailing the BigSky MX as a "next-level experience" (Scapelliti). The sonic quality is a frequent point of praise, with one reviewer noting it has "more depth, clearer highs and more fidelity in the tails and decay" compared to its legendary predecessor (Vnuk Jr.). The sheer power of the new ARM processor allows for stunningly complex and creative soundscapes, especially with the flagship dual-reverb feature, which lets you do things like run a shimmer into a bloom or create a "super spring" by splitting two spring reverbs (Vnuk Jr.). The addition of a fully-featured Impulse Response engine is seen as a massive step forward, pushing the pedal firmly into the territory of professional studio gear (Scapelliti). While the improved layout and crisp OLED screen make it easier to navigate, the primary critique is its high price point, which may deter some users ("Strymon BigSky MX Review").

User Sentiment Summary

Users are dazzled by the incredible sound quality and versatility, calling it a top-tier pedal for sonic exploration. The intuitive interface is praised for making a complex machine easy to use right out of the box ("Strymon BigSky MX - What To Know & Where To Buy"). The main drawback noted by users is the premium price tag. Some users also mention that for players who only need a few simple reverbs, the vast feature set might be excessive.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Remarkable, "3-D" sound quality with incredible realism and depth (Scapelliti).
  • Powerful dual-engine design allows for running two reverbs at once for complex, evolving soundscapes (Vnuk Jr.).
  • Impulse Response (IR) loader with full editing adds unparalleled flexibility ("We Crowned the Strymon BigSky MX...").
  • Improved user interface with a clearer OLED screen and more logical knob layout (Vnuk Jr.).
  • Seven all-new algorithms plus enhanced versions of the classic BigSky sounds.

Cons

  • The high price point is a significant consideration ("Strymon BigSky MX Review").
  • The sheer depth and number of features require a time investment to fully master ("Strymon BigSky MX Review").
  • Some of the most advanced features may be "excess for some" users who have simpler needs ("Strymon BigSky MX Multi Reverb pedal review").

Ideal For

The Strymon BigSky MX is ideal for sonic adventurers, including professional touring guitarists, studio musicians, synth players, and sound designers. It is for the creator who views reverb as an integral part of their sound and wants a no-compromise tool for crafting everything from realistic spaces to otherworldly ambient textures ("Strymon BigSky MX Review"). If you want the absolute best in a stompbox format and are willing to invest the time and money, you can find this amazing creative tool at the purchase link you provided.

Competing Products

Works Cited