Pi-Phase mk2 dual phase shifter (Mutron Biphase clone)

Prophecysound Pi-Phase mk2 overview

The Mu-Tron Bi-Phase is a dual phase-shifter invented and marketed by Musictronics USA in the 70s. It has become well-known and well-loved for it's 'classic' warm and deep sound, as well as the flexibility of it's control and audio-processing capabilities. The Prophecysound Pi-Phase mk2 seeks to accurately reproduce the sound and control layout of the original unit. Design goals for this reproduction of the Bi-Phase were:

1. to match, as closely as possible, the sound of the original
2. to maintain the same or a very similar control layout
3. to package the pedal in a size and format that would allow it to be used live
4. to dispense with the need for a special controller pedal for switching channels on/off, or for controlling pedal sweep

The Pi-Phase mk2 is all-analog and parts-accurate to the original, as much as is possible. To our ears, and the ears of many previous customers, the Pi-Phase mk2 sounds like the real-deal. How much like it? Original Bi-Phases are pretty old, and some units suffer from parts drift, lack of maintenance, and lack of calibration; each 'well-gigged' Bi-Phase can easily sound different to the next. With the Pi-Phase mk2 we give you 'factory fresh' dual-phaser experience.

The control layout was condensed to fit the targeted pedal format, while still providing a clear and understandable way of operating the unit. The original architecture of the dual LFOs / dual phase shifters has accurately been retained. As per the original, a manual isn't really even needed to explain how the unit works, or what the possibilities are. The resultant format - a pedal 50mm (~2") high, 188mm (7.4") wide and 122mm (4.8") deep - can readily be accommodated on most pedal-boards. The Pi-Phase mk2 is powder-coated and the labels are made out of industrial-strength polycarbonate for looks that will resist the worst live gigs have to offer.

No special extra foot-switch is necessary to operate the Pi-Phase mk2; true-bypass foot-switching for each individual phase channel is built into the pedal. An expression pedal may be connected to the CV PEDAL socket at the rear of the Pi-Phase mk2; the pot in the expression pedal should be connected across the sleeve and ring terminals of a stereo cable, with the wiper connected to the tip. We recommend an expression pedal that incorporates a 10k linear pot (e.g. Boss EV-5, EV-7) for optimal performance. Alternatively, you can connect an external CV signal in the range of 0-5V for controlling the Pi-Phase mk2 from a modular synth or modulation source. Either method - expression pedal or CV - allows controlling of LFO speeds and / or manual sweep of the phase sections.

Each pedal comes with reproductions of the original unit's program cards, including a new preset of Prophecysound design, and some blank program cards to record your own settings. A printed manual, with quick-start and detailed information on the pedal, is also supplied. A PDF of this manual is available for download at the bottom of this page.

Locally made for the highest quality

This pedal is manufactured and assembled here in Adelaide, South Australia. We believe in working with people we can meet and discuss our requirements with face-to-face, and in utilising local companies to stimulate the economy. Most importantly, our local manufacturers have many years of experience, and we trust them to help us produce products that are second-to-none in terms of quality and reliability.

Special note!

Prophecysound claims no association with Mu-Tron / Musitronics / Mike Beigel or Aaron Newman. The Pi-Phase mk2 is a, if you like, fan-based tribute to the original unit, and addresses a long-standing technical challenge and curiosity.

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What are people saying about the Pi-Phase mk2?

Some feedback from current users of the Pi-Phase mk2:

"I have used the pedal on about four songs off my new album and have decided to actually replay some bass parts on songs already mixed just to be able to use the effect of the MK2 instead of some other phasers I already printed to tape with. I absolutely love this pedal and will make sure I have one for the road as well for my studio. There is no longer a need to risk taking my vintage phaser on the road as this truly is the best replacement pedal for any vintage phaser pedal I have yet to hear and I have heard them all.

- Paris Toon (award-winning, billboard charting lyricist, producer and musical enigma behind the collective Mothers Favorite Child), USA

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The device is very well built and looks great and sturdy... I used a T-rex phaser pedal before, which didn't sound bad, but the difference is really phenomenal. I think the Pi-Phase sound is absolutely unique, it sounds much warmer and has an almost liquid texture to it... the Pi-Phase sounds great and has an enormous scope of sonic possibilities...

- SM, Belgium

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The pedal sounds really amazing. On guitars sound EQ do not need to be change, sound gets full and phasing combinations are very impressive, calibration is perfect. Square phasing are great on those, with just a little fuzz or OD it seriously rocks. On the Rhodes, this is simply pure heaven, beautiful...To me this pedal is a pure magic box....

- AP, France

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I love it! Its by far the best phaser I've ever played.

- KT, USA

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What does it sound like?

Samples recorded, mixed and mastered by Mic Nix Productions (Adelaide, South Australia)
Guitar - Mike Nikou
Bass, keys - Mike Both

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How do I get one?

June 2015 - Pi-Phase mk2s are available for purchase now. For more information email Mike.

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