Bastl launches Kastle 2 FX Wizard stereo multi-effect unit
November 1, 2024 · 2 sources
Bastl Instruments has announced the Kastle 2 FX Wizard, a compact, patchable stereo multi-effect unit1. MusicRadar reported on 18 November 2024 that the unit is a completely redesigned addition to Bastl's Kastle range with a new emphasis on effects, rather than an update to the original synth2. It will be available to order from the end of November priced at 160 euro excluding tax2.
The unit is a stereo digital multi-effect that is re-routable via mini patch points across its front panel2. It has nine effect modes grouped into three color-coded families: a delay family (delay, flanger, freezer), an amplitude family (panner, crusher, slicer) and a pitch-shifting family (pitcher, replayer, shifter)12. Bastl lists stereo processing at 44kHz/16-bits, a maximum stereo delay time of 1.15s from firmware v1.1, a filter in the feedback path with lowpass/highpass, stereo detuning for each mode, and an LFO, tempo generator with tap tempo and a tempo-synced pattern generator1. The feedback, stereo and filter parameters can each be modulated from a patch point, with internal modulation from the onboard LFO or the pattern generator2.
Connections include stereo mini-jack input with gain up to +12dB and output capable of driving headphones up to 250 Ohm, analog sync in and out, and USB-C for power, firmware updates and USB MIDI12. The unit runs on 3x AA batteries, which Bastl claims should last 15-18 hours12. It ships with 10 patch cables, and Bastl says batteries are excluded for environmental reasons1. The firmware and schematics are open source1.
The two accounts differ on one mode: Bastl names the second delay-family effect a flanger with stereo chorus capabilities, while MusicRadar describes it as a phaser12. The FX Wizard sits alongside multi-effects units listed in our multi-effects pedals section.