The Erica Synths Pico Ringmodulator is a compact ring modulator built around a balanced modulator circuit, which the maker describes as a quadrant multiplier used "to create bell-like, metallic or robotic sounds"1. Ring modulation multiplies two signals against each other, and the frequencies that come out are sums and differences of the input frequencies, which is where the metallic, inharmonic character comes from. What makes this unit practical is that it carries its own sine oscillator, so you do not need a second source to modulate against.
What it does
Erica Synths describes the Pico Ring as "a balanced modulator (quadrant multiplier) circuit to create bell-like, metallic or robotic sounds"1. In practice, a ring modulator takes your instrument's signal and a second signal, and outputs only the interaction between the two: tones that are not harmonically related to either input. Feed it a sine wave and a voice, and you get clangorous, robotic textures; feed it two musical sources and you get bell-like overtones.
The built-in sine oscillator is the key convenience here. Erica Synths says "It has built-in sinewave modulation oscillator for more versatility"1, meaning the unit can supply its own modulation tone instead of relying on an external oscillator or a second instrument. For players used to guitar-adjacent ring modulators such as the Pigtronix Ringmaster, that internal source is what lets the pedal work as a self-contained effect.
Availability
The Erica Synths product page listed the Pico Ringmodulator as of 26 October 20261. Erica Synths ships worldwide with UPS and FedEx1.
Warranty and returns
Erica Synths backs its products with a two-year warranty and a straightforward return window when you buy direct1:
- Warranty: 2 years from the date you received the product, covering manufacturing faults, on products bought from the Erica Synths web shop or authorized retailers1
- Not covered: defects resulting from incorrect handling or improper setup, for example reverse polarity power, static damage or liquid damage, and second-hand units1
- Out-of-warranty repairs: subject to a repair fee of a minimum of 50 EUR per hour plus parts and shipping1
- Returns: a full refund, excluding shipping costs, if returned within 14 days of the date on the receipt, for purchases made directly from the Erica Synths web shop1
The warranty excludes damage from improper power setup, including reverse polarity, so check your power supply polarity before connecting the unit.
For customers in the EU, VAT applies to orders without an EU VAT registration number; outside the EU, local taxation applies in the country of delivery1.
Questions
What does the Erica Synths Pico Ringmodulator sound like?
Erica Synths describes the Pico Ringmodulator as a balanced modulator, built on a quadrant multiplier circuit, used to create bell-like, metallic or robotic sounds. Ring modulation multiplies an input signal against another signal, and the character of the result depends on what you feed into it, which is why the built-in sine oscillator is there to give you a second source without extra gear.
Does the Pico Ringmodulator have a built-in oscillator?
Yes. Erica Synths says the Pico Ringmodulator has a built-in sinewave modulation oscillator, which the maker describes as adding versatility. That means you can ring-modulate your signal against an internal sine tone rather than needing a separate oscillator or second source patched in.
Is the Erica Synths Pico Ringmodulator still available?
Availability can change, so it is worth checking the maker's page or authorized retailers for current stock.
What does the Pico Ringmodulator warranty cover?
Products bought from the Erica Synths web shop or authorized retailers carry a 2-year warranty from the date you received the product, covering manufacturing faults. Defects from incorrect handling or improper setup, such as reverse polarity power, static damage or liquid damage, are not covered, and second-hand units are excluded.
Can I return the Pico Ringmodulator after buying it?
If you bought it directly from the Erica Synths web shop, you are entitled to a full refund, excluding shipping costs, if you return the product within 14 days of the date on the receipt.
Sources (1)
- Pico Ringmodulator, Erica Synths
