Description

Empress Zoia- basically a modular synth in pedal form! Build your own sounds for $449!

The Empress Effects ZOIA is a modular synthesizer and multi-effects processor condensed into a compact pedal format. It enables musicians to design custom effects, synthesizers, and control interfaces by interconnecting various modules, offering extensive creative flexibility.

Key Features

  • Modular Design: Incorporates over 80 modules, including oscillators, LFOs, filters, and envelope followers, allowing users to construct complex signal chains and unique effects.
  • Pre-Built Effects: Offers more than 20 ready-made effects modules such as reverbs, delays, choruses, flangers, and overdrives, facilitating immediate use and customization.
  • User Interface: Features a high-resolution OLED display and a grid of push-buttons for intuitive patch creation and navigation, streamlining the user experience.
  • Patch Storage: Allows saving up to 64 patches internally, with additional storage and sharing capabilities via an SD card, enabling easy management and exchange of creations.
  • MIDI Integration: Provides full MIDI functionality, including 1/8-inch MIDI I/O, ensuring seamless integration with various MIDI-equipped setups.

Sound and Performance

The ZOIA delivers high-quality audio processing with 48kHz sampling, 24-bit conversion, and 32-bit internal processing. Its modular architecture allows for the creation of a vast array of sounds, from traditional effects to innovative sonic textures, catering to diverse musical styles and experimental endeavors.

Design and Aesthetics

Housed in a sturdy enclosure, the ZOIA’s compact design is suitable for pedalboard integration. The interactive grid interface, combined with the OLED display, offers a visually engaging and user-friendly platform for crafting and manipulating patches.

Technical Specifications

  • Inputs: Two ¼” mono audio inputs
  • Outputs: Two ¼” mono audio outputs
  • Control Port: Assignable for expression pedal or control voltage (CV) input
  • MIDI I/O: 1/8″ MIDI In and Out
  • Power Supply: 9V DC (300mA minimum)

Compatibility

The ZOIA operates effectively in both mono and stereo configurations, accommodating guitar or line-level inputs and outputs. Its comprehensive MIDI capabilities and control port ensure compatibility with a wide range of instruments and external controllers.

Country of Manufacture

Canada