Gamechanger Audio has announced the PLUS Pedal 2, a complete redesign of its sustain pedal platform for guitarists, vocalists, instrumentalists and sound designers. The new model introduces a rebuilt sound engine, intelligent automatic layering, expanded connectivity and a redesigned performance interface.
Announced in Riga, Latvia, on July 7, 2026, the PLUS Pedal II builds on the original PLUS Pedal, which became known for creating organic, evolving sustained textures across a wide range of musical styles and instruments.
A new Spectral Sampling engine
At the center of the PLUS Pedal 2 is a new sound engine based on Spectral Sampling. According to Gamechanger Audio, the algorithm combines real-time audio capture with spectral resynthesis to preserve the timbre, dynamics, harmonics and character of the incoming signal.
The company says the result is a more natural and responsive sustain effect that captures the nuances of a performance rather than simply freezing an audio signal in place.
The new engine is designed to handle electric guitar, vocals, flute, saxophone, violin, cello, acoustic instruments and experimental sound sources. A combo XLR/TS input with a built-in studio-grade microphone preamp allows players to connect instruments or microphones directly without additional external gear.
Auto Layer Catch adds hands-free sustain control
One of the key additions is Auto Layer Catch, a mode that continuously monitors incoming audio, detects new note events and adds them automatically to the active sustain pool.
With Auto Layer Catch, players can keep a foot on the brass pedal and continue performing without manually triggering each new sustained layer.
A dedicated LAYERS control lets users manage the number of active layers, from one sustained note to ten simultaneous harmonic layers. An Infinite Mode continuously folds older layers into new ones, allowing extended stacking without interruption.
Redesigned controls for live and studio performance
The PLUS Pedal II also introduces a redesigned control interface. Dedicated CATCH and HOLD switches determine how new notes enter the sustain pool and how active layers behave while the pedal is engaged.
Separate RISE and DECAY controls shape the fade-in and fade-out of each layer, while TONE and RESONANCE controls add dynamic filtering and harmonic resonance to the sustained signal. The pedal also features gradual optical control for a smoother, more expressive response than a simple on/off switch.
An integrated circular LED display provides real-time visual feedback by showing the active layers as they build.
Three-position effects loop expands routing options
Gamechanger Audio has added an integrated SEND/RETURN effects loop with a three-position routing switch. The loop allows external effects to be placed before the PLUS Pedal II engine, inside the sustained layers only, or after the combined output.
This Pre, Mix and Post routing system gives players three distinct ways to use the same external effect without changing cable routing or rearranging a pedalboard.
Optional footswitch adds Wet, Latch and Hide modes
An optional external footswitch expands the pedal’s live and studio workflow with three additional modes. WET removes the dry signal from the main output for sustained layers only. LATCH keeps the pedal continuously active without requiring physical engagement of the brass pedal. HIDE temporarily removes the dry signal when the brass pedal is pressed.
Key features of the PLUS Pedal 2
- Layer Control with 1 to 10 discrete layers plus Infinite Mode
- Auto Layer Catch for automatic note detection and layering
- Resonator function for evolving harmonic movement
- XLR input with built-in studio-grade microphone preamp
- Three-position smart effects loop with Pre, Mix and Post routing
- Gradual optical control for expressive sustain behavior
- Circular LED display for real-time layer feedback
- Advanced Hold and Decay Release controls
- Optional external footswitch with Wet, Latch and Hide modes
Availability
The PLUS Pedal 2 is available to order now through Gamechanger Audio. First units are scheduled to ship in August 2026. Orders placed by July 12 will be signed and personalized.
About Gamechanger Audio
Gamechanger Audio is an independent audio technology company based in Riga, Latvia. Founded by musicians and engineers, the company develops professional effects and sound tools for artists worldwide.
Its product lineup includes the PLUS Pedal, BIGSBY Pedal, AUTO Series, PLASMA Pedal, Motor Synth MKII and Plasma Drive, developed in collaboration with Erica Synths. The company describes its approach as “Made in Latvia — resonating worldwide.”
dshowmusic.com
