Montreal Assembly
PurPLL
Maker: Montreal Assembly (mtlasm)
Current Production (12-2024): Yes
Retail: $180
Marketing:
The PURPLL is a Phase-Locked-Loop (PLL) type effect pedal developed by Montreal Assembly. Painted in purple, the name PURPLL is an obvious choice. PLL pedals are typically used as monophonic pitch-shifting devices, producing synth-like square wave tones, and the PURPLL is no exception. However, it also delivers unique parameter modulation, enabling the creation of interesting arpeggio patterns in addition to the classic PLL sounds. Additionally, the pedal features a short sampler that captures the most recent note played by the input instrument, offering infinite sustain when enabled. It even includes a built-in oscillator, allowing the pedal to function as a standalone instrument requiring no input at all.
To achieve this functionality, the PURPLL combines an analog PLL circuit with digital circuitry. While the core of the pedal remains analog, like most PLL pedals, the PURPLL is a hybrid design. This hybrid approach enables more advanced controls compared to other PLL pedals on the market. For example, it allows the multiplier or divider value to be swept using a standard potentiometer, a feature that was previously unavailable in PLL pedals that relied on mechanical switches. This innovation makes expression pedal or CV control over these parameters both simple and intuitive. The onboard LFO further expands its versatility, as it can modulate the multiply and divide parameters to generate arpeggio patterns. The LFO can also be synced to an external clock source, enabling synchronization with other devices like modular synths or Korg’s Volca series.
The PURPLL also includes low and high-pass shelving filters, providing some tonal sculpting for the otherwise harsh square wave sounds typically generated by PLL pedals.
