The Traveler is a compact digital reverb pedal from Matthews Effects, built around three algorithms: Mod, Shimmer and Vintage. It is aimed at players who want ambient textures on a small board, and Delicious Audio described it as a three-mode digital, compact reverb pedal with which "you can create anything from subtle reverb textures to full-blown sonic landscapes"1. The pedal carries six preset slots, MIDI control over a 3.5mm jack, and a Hold function on the footswitch for instant feedback swells2.
The Mod and Shimmer modes borrow their voices from earlier Matthews Effects pedals. Modulation mode is inspired by the original Cosmonaut modulation pedal, and Shimmer mode is voiced after the builder's Astronomer shimmer algorithm1.
As of October 2026, the maker's product page lists The Traveler as sold out2. The pedal was offered in limited release runs, including a Black Friday edition, so availability has come in waves rather than as a continuous catalog item23.
The three algorithms
Each mode gives the pedal a different character, and the M knob changes its job depending on which algorithm is selected2.
| Mode | What it does | M knob |
|---|---|---|
| Mod | Reverb with modulation, inspired by the original Cosmonaut modulation pedal, mix from 100% dry to 100% wet21 | Dials modulation into the reverb1 |
| Shimmer | Inspired by the original Astronomer shimmer algorithm2 | Dials in the amount of shimmer into the reverb2 |
| Vintage | Spring reverb algorithm inspired by vintage Fender amps (standard version)1 | Darkens the sound through a lowpass filter1 |
The Vintage mode is where the runs differ, and it is worth knowing which version you are looking at. On the standard Traveler, Delicious Audio described Vintage as "a brand new spring reverb algorithm inspired by the ones found in vintage Fender amps," with the M knob darkening the sound through a lowpass filter1. For the limited release run, Matthews Effects changed Vintage to a delay algorithm, describing it as "a simple but musical delay with warm repeats" to further expand the pedal's capabilities2.
Controls and the Hold switch
The front panel keeps things simple. The Mix knob blends the wet signal in, and the M knob controls a different unique feature on each algorithm24. The six preset slots make it easy to switch between favorite sounds, and MIDI allows remote control of presets, algorithms and features2.
The Bypass/Hold switch does double duty. A tap bypasses the pedal, while holding it down activates the Hold function, which instantly jumps the feedback control to its maximum setting and returns it to its previous place once you let go451. For a player, that means a foot-held swell of infinite-feeling reverb or delay that snaps back to your stored sound when you release the switch, without touching a knob.
A user's guide and a MIDI manual are available from the maker3.
Power and connections
The Traveler runs on 9V DC center negative at 120mA, with a mono signal path and top mounted input and output jacks that help it fit tight pedalboards2. At 2.67 x 4.77 x 1.55 inches, Matthews Effects pitches the compact size as making it a companion for gigging musicians23.
The 120mA draw is above what a standard 9V battery path or a low-current daisy chain position is typically asked to supply, so plan on an isolated or adequately rated supply position2.
Price and versions
The maker's page lists the Traveler at a sale price of £115.00 GBP as of October 20262. The pedal offers three algorithms, Mod, Shimmer, and Vintage, in one compact digital reverb enclosure24.
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Questions
Does The Traveler have MIDI?
Yes. The Traveler has MIDI over a 3.5mm jack, and Matthews Effects says this lets you control your presets, algorithms and features remotely. A MIDI manual is available from the maker alongside the user's guide.
How many presets does the Matthews Traveler hold?
The Traveler has six preset slots, which Matthews Effects says makes it easy to switch between your favorite sounds. Presets, algorithms and features can also be switched remotely over MIDI.
Is the Matthews Effects Traveler still available?
As of October 2026 the maker's product page lists The Traveler as sold out. It was offered in limited release runs, including a Black Friday edition, so availability has come and gone in waves.
Is The Traveler true bypass?
Yes. Matthews Effects lists the pedal as true bypass, so with the effect off the signal passes through without the pedal's circuitry in the path.
Is the Traveler's Vintage mode a delay or a spring reverb?
It depends on the run. On the limited release, Vintage is a simple but musical delay with warm repeats. On the standard version, Delicious Audio described Vintage as a brand new spring reverb algorithm inspired by vintage Fender amps.
Sources (5)
- Matthews Effects The Traveler Reverb, Delicious Audio, 2023-04-11
- LIMITED RUN The Traveler, Matthews Effects
- Black Friday Traveler, Matthews Effects
- The Traveler, Matthews Effects
- limited run, Matthews Effects
