Caroline Guitar Company Arigato | Phaser Vibrato

The Caroline Guitar Company Arigato is a remarkable piece of gear in the world of analogue phasers, featuring a unique twist on the classic OTA design. One standout feature is the mode switch, which goes beyond the ordinary by altering the capacitors and filter notches, closely resembling the warm and nostalgic tones of a classic vibe pedal. This adds an intriguing off-balance quality to the phaser’s sweep, making it stand out in the crowd.

What truly sets the Arigato apart is its versatile bypass functionality. Not only does it offer a standard bypass, but it can also engage a momentary bypass mode. This means you can achieve instant phasing “hits” and quick releases, adding a dynamic element to your sound exploration.

Another notable feature is the square wave option, reminiscent of the beloved Somersault. This square wave function has the potential to push the phasing effect into audible pumps and even overload territory. It’s worth noting that the Caroline team could have tamed this for noise reduction, but they deliberately chose not to, preserving the sheer fun factor of the pedal.

Built upon a framework similar to the Somersault, the Arigato boasts an analogue LFO capable of pushing sonic boundaries and delivering unconventional effects. The mix control is equally impressive, allowing for a 100% wet signal when desired. Lastly, the havoc control is the pedal’s wild side, offering unrestrained experimentation and intensity.

While the Arigato can certainly capture the airy psychedelia of classic units, it excels in rumbling, wobbling, shaking, rattling, and roaring. Additionally, it’s not limited to traditional phaser sounds; it can also venture into intriguing vibrato territory when taken fully wet, or create captivating auto-wah style filter sweeps when feedback is maxed out.