Ampeg Liquifier Analog Chorus

The Ampeg Liquifier Analog Chorus, released in the late 2010s, is a versatile and lush chorus pedal designed for bassists but equally effective for guitar and other instruments. Built with a roadworthy all-metal chassis, the Liquifier stands out due to its dual chorus circuit, which creates two delayed copies of the original signal—one of which is polarity-inverted. This unique design produces rich, three-dimensional modulation with a "through-zero flanging" effect, rare in analog pedals. Featuring controls for Rate, Depth, and Effect Level, the Liquifier allows players to craft everything from subtle shimmer to dramatic, swirling textures.

Historical Development

Design Philosophy: The Liquifier was developed to provide bassists with a chorus effect that retains low-end clarity while delivering warm, analog modulation. Its dual chorus circuit sets it apart from traditional single-voice designs.
Features: True bypass switching, a high signal-to-noise ratio, and compatibility with both 9V batteries and DC power supplies make it practical for live and studio use.
Legacy: The Liquifier has become a go-to pedal for musicians seeking lush chorus tones without sacrificing tonal integrity.

Notable Players

Miki Santamaria: A prominent Ampeg artist who uses the Liquifier for its ability to add melodic presence to bass lines while preserving warmth and punch.
Tim Lefebvre (David Bowie, Tedeschi Trucks Band): Known for incorporating the Liquifier into his effects-heavy bass rig to create expansive textures.

Popular Settings

The Liquifier's controls allow for a variety of creative tones:

Subtle Chorus: Rate at 10:00, Depth at 9:00, Effect Level at noon for light modulation that enhances clean tones.
Lush Modulation: Rate at noon, Depth at 2:00, Effect Level at 3:00 for rich, swirling textures ideal for melodic playing.
Extreme Swirl: Rate maxed out, Depth at noon, Effect Level at max for psychedelic or experimental sounds.

Legacy

The Ampeg Liquifier Analog Chorus has earned praise for its warm tone and innovative dual-chorus design. While rooted in bass applications, its versatility makes it equally appealing to guitarists and keyboardists. With its blend of vintage-style warmth and modern functionality, the Liquifier continues Ampeg's tradition of crafting high-quality tools for musicians.