Darkglass unveils the Element pedal-sized headphone amp and cab-sim box

Darkglass Electronics has announced the Element, a pedal-sized audio cab-sim box that offers cabinet simulations, extensive I/O and a clean, futuristic look.

The element’s design departs from a lot of pedals in that it has no knobs. Instead, three tactile slider potentiometers operate its parameters, each of which features LEDs to let you know where things are working. This choice was, according to Darkglass, inspired by the touch sensor technology used in its Hyper Luminal Compressor.

The unit allows you to connect your guitar directly to an interface, mixing desk or just a pair of headphones. In fact, two pairs of headphones, thanks to the two outputs. Other outputs include a standard quarter-inch jack to use the unit with an amplifier and a balanced XLR-out for use as a DI box. You can also play along to backing tracks thanks to the eighth-inch input jack and Bluetooth support.

For a more natural sound when running direct, the unit is loaded with a bank of five cabinet simulations. More can also be loaded in with the Darkglass Suite software. Keeping with the futuristic theme, the Element connects to your computer via USB-C.

The Element lists for $249. Find out more at darkglass.com.