Source Audio SA264 Encounter Ambient Delay + Reverb
The encounter is an excellent Reverb / Delay effect unit with algorithms that compliment lush ambient soundscape generation.
The sound is exceptional on both engines, and it comes with all the bells and whistles an effect unit could possibly have. MIDI in / out / through, expression, a dedicated app (neuro 3) which not only can decuple the functions and parameters of effect-settings but exchange entire effect types.
The 2 knobs for parametric modulation of each effect type can literally be reprogrammed to add other effects such as distortion / saturation, flange / chorus, bit-crush, and so on, you can even adjust levels and tone parameters of each.
With all these in mind, the encounter becomes a complex machine that can be overwhelming for folks who seek simplicity.
Some incredibly sounding modulated effects can be achieved on the Encounter. From the otherworldly "Helix" delay to the "Lo Fi" reverb mode, this unit invites deep experimentation and this is what makes it an amazing effects module. This is a modern effect powerhouse that excels on unconventional sonic explorations.
The construction of chassis , knobs and switches is of the highest quality. The feel of tweaking effect parameters is the best among any pedal.
However on some algorithms I found the mild increasing / decreasing volume during effect engagement a bit annoying, wondering why Source Audio wouldn't have the algorithm automatically adjusting the volume according to the dry input. This only happens rarely and on some effect types when the second engine is activated on top of the first). Of course with the neuro app, this (or any) issue can be adjusted to preference, however I didn't pay the price of a boutique high-end pedal to rely on an app.
Overall , a great effect unit that truly shines in the studio with its deep modulation.
The sound is exceptional on both engines, and it comes with all the bells and whistles an effect unit could possibly have. MIDI in / out / through, expression, a dedicated app (neuro 3) which not only can decuple the functions and parameters of effect-settings but exchange entire effect types.
The 2 knobs for parametric modulation of each effect type can literally be reprogrammed to add other effects such as distortion / saturation, flange / chorus, bit-crush, and so on, you can even adjust levels and tone parameters of each.
With all these in mind, the encounter becomes a complex machine that can be overwhelming for folks who seek simplicity.
Some incredibly sounding modulated effects can be achieved on the Encounter. From the otherworldly "Helix" delay to the "Lo Fi" reverb mode, this unit invites deep experimentation and this is what makes it an amazing effects module. This is a modern effect powerhouse that excels on unconventional sonic explorations.
The construction of chassis , knobs and switches is of the highest quality. The feel of tweaking effect parameters is the best among any pedal.
However on some algorithms I found the mild increasing / decreasing volume during effect engagement a bit annoying, wondering why Source Audio wouldn't have the algorithm automatically adjusting the volume according to the dry input. This only happens rarely and on some effect types when the second engine is activated on top of the first). Of course with the neuro app, this (or any) issue can be adjusted to preference, however I didn't pay the price of a boutique high-end pedal to rely on an app.
Overall , a great effect unit that truly shines in the studio with its deep modulation.
March 27, 2026
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Kostas Maskalides
This review was automatically translated from Dutch.
