The Dr. Scientist Dusk Multi Mode Low Pass Filter is an envelope filter pedal that pairs an analog audio path with digital control. Pedal of the Day describes it as "a digitally controlled analog 12dB/Octave low pass filter," built around an Operational Transconductance Amplifier (OTA) circuit. The digital side handles the modern conveniences: filter setting, tap tempo, MIDI and preset storage, while the analog side shapes the sound1.
What the Dusk does
As a low pass filter, the Dusk cuts the high frequencies above a set point and lets you move that point, which is the core of the classic auto-wah and envelope filter sound. Pedal of the Day wrote that "this digital/analog hybrid encompasses everything you know and love about envelope filters," with the added flexibility of digital control over how the filter moves1.
The controls: modes, LFO waveforms and presets
The Dusk gives you three filter modes and six LFO waveforms to choose from1:
- CUT: manual control of the filter cutoff
- ENV: the filter responds to your playing dynamics
- LFO: the filter sweeps automatically, shaped by one of six LFO waveforms
Two stomp switches do more than turn the effect on and off:
| Switch | What it does |
|---|---|
| Bypass | Engages the effect, and also loads and scrolls through the 4 on board presets1 |
| Multi | Provides a different outcome with each of the three filter modes, freezing, sweeping and ramping1 |
Beyond the footswitches, the Dusk takes external expression or CV control through a side 1/4" jack, and its digital features can be controlled over 5-pin DIN MIDI using standard CC and PC messages1.
What reviewers said
Pedal of the Day reviewed the Dusk in December 2020 and summed up its sound with a specific reference: "If anyone was on Fall '97 Phish tour, this pedal sounds just like that"1.
Videos
Dr. Scientist Sounds
Do Noise
Jackson Brooksby
Questions
Is the Dr. Scientist Dusk analog or digital?
The Dusk is a hybrid: the audio path is analog, built around an Operational Transconductance Amplifier (OTA) circuit, while the control side is digital. Pedal of the Day describes it as a digitally controlled analog 12dB/Octave low pass filter, with the digital part handling conveniences such as filter setting, tap tempo, MIDI and preset storage.
What are the three filter modes on the Dusk?
The Dusk offers three filter modes: CUT, ENV and LFO. CUT gives manual control of the filter, ENV makes the filter respond to your playing dynamics like an envelope filter, and LFO sweeps the filter automatically. The Multi stomp switch does something different in each mode, freezing, sweeping and ramping the filter.
Does the Dusk have MIDI?
Yes. The Dusk's digital features can be controlled over 5-pin DIN MIDI using standard CC and PC messages, so it can be integrated with a MIDI switching setup or sequencer.
Can I use an expression pedal with the Dusk?
Yes. The Dusk accepts external expression or CV control through a 1/4 inch jack on the side of the pedal, so an expression pedal or CV source can move the filter in real time.
Does the Dusk have tap tempo?
Yes. Tap tempo is one of the digital features Pedal of the Day lists for the Dusk, alongside filter setting, MIDI and preset functions.
How many presets does the Dusk store?
The Dusk stores four on board presets. The Bypass stomp switch both engages the effect and loads and scrolls through those four presets.
Sources (1)
- Dr. Scientist Dusk Multi Mode Low Pass Filter, Pedal of the Day, 2020-12-11
