The Explorer is an optical six stage analog phaser, lovingly handcrafted with our hyper detailed approach to usability, and tone. Named after the first satellite put into orbit by the United States in 1958, the Explorer was the first phaser launched by Spaceman. Years later, we are pleased to bring you a small form factor reissue of this classic circuit with all the deluxe features of the original. Sometimes liquidy smooth, sometimes chewy and lush, the fluid frequencies squiggle and flourish like the unrelenting ebb and flow of the sonic tide.

The Explorer is an optical, photocell-based phaser design, featuring six sweeping stages. From your favorite vintage tones, to strange experimental sounds; the unique control set provides an incredible range of phase tones, with an easy-to-use layout.Named after the first satellite put into orbit by the United States in 1958, the Explorer was the first phaser launched by Spaceman. Years later, we are pleased to bring you a small form factor reissue of this classic circuit with all the features of the original. Sometimes liquidy smooth, sometimes chewy and lush, the fluid frequencies squiggle and flourish like the unrelenting ebb and flow of the sonic tide.

DIALING IN THE DETAILS

Beginning with the VOL control, you can always dial in the perfect volume for your phase tone. The MIXcontrol is one of our favorites, as it gives you the ability to blend in additional dry signal for a pleasant, subtle phasing effect. This control also has a secondary function: pitch modulation when set to 100% wet. RES adds feedback for those over-the-top phase tones we all know and love. RANGEoffers unique control over the low frequency extension of the phasing. At its lower settings, only the higher frequencies are phased – useful for dialing in vibrato and rotary speaker tones. Turning up the RANGE control stretches the phaser’s reach into very low frequencies which is especially great for slow, deep phasing.

CREATIVE CONTROL

The wide range RATE control allows for both extremely slow, and extremely fast modulation. Five wave shapes are available via the SHAPEcontrol. Sine, Ramp Down, Ramp Up, Triangle, and Square. The sixth position on this control, the Manual setting, disconnects the LFO and freezes the phase sweep. Using the RATE knob, you can then control the position of the sweep manually, for unique tone-shaping possibilities. Saving the best for last, the Explorer includes an CV/EXP pedal input. When using the five LFO wave shapes, the expression input controls the speed of the LFO. In manual mode, the expression input sweeps the phaser directly. RATE sets the highest point while RANGE sets the lowest point of the sweep. This allows for very cool “wah-pedal” style phase sweeping, especially when combined with the RES control.

MORE THAN YOU BARGAINED FOR

Continuing our tradition of extra functionality, additional waveshapes are accessible by applying power to the Explorer with the footswitch depressed. Three arpeggiated waveshapes, a stepped shape, MW shape, and an inverted manually sweep mode offer some of the most unprecedented phase tones around. The Explorer can accept up to 24v DC power for even higher headroom and clarity.

EXPLORER FEATURES

• All analog signal path
• 6 stages of optically swept phase shifting
• Wide range LFO with 5 waveshapes
• Manually swept filtering abilities
• Up to 24V capable for high headroom use cases
• True-Bypass relay switching via momentary footswitche
• CV/EXP options for even more user control
• Full featured controls in a compact form factor

A CADET SERIES PEDAL

The Cadet Series brings Spaceman’s signature sonic character to a wider audience through repeatable, SMD-based designs. Classic Spaceman designs with the same attention to tone and detail, these pedals offer consistent availability, accessible pricing, and everyday reliability - without sacrificing the individuality that defines Spaceman. Screen printed faceplates and raw metal enclosures set this series apart. Ideal for working musicians and pedalboard-ready setups, the Cadet Series is where our craft meets practicality.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 

Width:

2.6 inches / 66 mm

Depth:

4.73 inches / 120 mm

Height:

2.17 inches / 55 mm

Weight:

10.5 ounces

Input Resistance:

1Meg Ohm

Bypass Current Draw:

26 mA

Engaged Current Draw:

51 mA

Input Voltage:

9-24V DC, negative center via the 2

The resonan knob is a bit stiff at the lower setting but it works fine