The Strymon Riverside combines a traditional JFET sound that is inspired by the tonal characteristics of tubes with modern signal-processing technology, so it can be combined with virtually any amplifier to produce a lively and versatile tube tone. The Riverside's integrated DSP allows the signal to be quickly and easily adjusted in each gain stage using the three-band EQ, and a user-defined preset can be stored and recalled later on using the practical "Favorite" switch. Other features include an onboard noise reduction circuit, a three-position presence switch, and the option of selecting between true and analogue buffered bypass. All of this combined makes the Strymon Riverside multi-stage drive the perfect gain pedal for any pedalboard.
With its gain switch set to "low", the Strymon Riverside provides both bluesy clean sounds and overdriven Rock sounds that exude vintage flair. Setting the gain switch to "high" delivers a signal that is distorted but will remain clear and well-defined with the gain knob dialled back. Turning up the gain will unleash the finest distorted crunch sounds and even high-gain Metal tones. In both modes, the "Push" switch allows you to activate a mid-band EQ push in order to drive the subsequent gain stages harder and push the connected amplifier into even further breakup. The Riverside also features cascaded gain stages: The three-band EQ section's parameters are adjusted as the drive knob is turned, thus ensuring an authentic tube sound at any setting.
Pressing and holding the Riverside's "On" switch activates the onboard noise gate, which is highly sensitive and effectively suppresses unwanted noise at higher gain settings, and the drive control can be used here to set the gate's threshold. Connecting an expression pedal to the Riverside allows user-defined parameters such as volume and gain to be controlled, thereby ensuring smooth transitions between clean and distorted sounds. The majority of Strymon's other pedals can also be combined with the Riverside, which means that further effect presets can additionally be activated using the "Favorite" switch. And what is more, the presence control located on the rear of the pedal allows the Riverside's output signal to be easily adjusted to suit the amplifier to which it is connected.
The Californian effects pedal manufacturer Strymon was founded in 2004 under the name Damage Control and initially produced tube-driven pedals. In 2009, the name was changed to Strymon and the company began developing DSP effects, some of which have already achieved cult status. Classics such as the "Big Sky" reverb and the "Timeline" and "El Capistan" delays can be found not only on many a guitarist’s pedalboard, but also thrive in recording studios. The quality of Strymon products has become a byword and today they are also being used by keyboard players and DJs alike. Strymon has firmly established a reputation for uncompromising sound and excellent workmanship.
The Riverside's JFET-based analogue front end has the same dynamic response as a real tube amplifier, while its integrated DSP gives added emphasis to the character of the sounds. The result is that it can quickly and easily bring out a top-quality, dynamic tube sound from virtually any amplifier it is connected to, and the Riverside is also perfect both for touring and for achieving an authentic tube tone at more moderate volume levels while playing at home.