# Strymon BigSky MX: The ultimate reverb pedal gets even better > The successor to the most popular reverb pedal ever made adds dual engines, rebuilt algorithms, and studio-grade sound quality. - Title: Strymon BigSky MX: The ultimate reverb pedal gets even better - Summary: The successor to the most popular reverb pedal ever made adds dual engines, rebuilt algorithms, and studio-grade sound quality. The BigSky MX delivers… - Keywords: strymon, bigsky mx, reverb pedal, guitar effects, dual engine, nixie 2, impulse response, midi, usb-c, guitar gear, effects pedals, studio recording - Source: Guitar World — https://guitarworld.com/gear/effects-pedals/strymon-bigsky-mx-review - Published: 2026-09-16T13:13:28+00:00 - Read time: 3 min - Topics: strymon, bigsky mx, reverb pedal, guitar effects, dual engine, nixie 2, impulse response, midi, usb-c, guitar gear, effects pedals, studio recording ## Successor to a legend The BigSky MX builds on the original, arguably the most popular reverb pedal ever made. It's been a few years since release. ## Dual reverb engines You can now run two reverb engines simultaneously in series, parallel, or with each panned separately. ## Massive processing upgrade The MX replaces the 366 MHz SHARC DSP chip with an 800 MHz tri-core ARM processor for significantly more power. ## Rebuilt from the ground up Spring, plate, hall, room, and shimmer engines were completely rewritten. Many other sounds got additional functions and enhancements. ## Custom impulse responses You can load custom impulse responses up to 10 seconds long. It ships with 22 stereo IRs as stock. ## Modern connectivity USB-C replaces the old MIDI-to-USB adapter. It can do MIDI over USB-C, TRS, or traditional 5-pin DIN connection. ## Compact and durable It's only slightly wider than the original and weighs well below a kilo. Takes up the same space as two and a bit Boss stompboxes. ## Robust controls Parameter knobs offer nice, firm travel and feel robustly applied. Footswitches click quietly and feel very durable. ## Screen works in any light The screen works brilliantly in any light thanks to green on black contrast. White text on blue can be hard to read at some angles. ## Easy hands-on control Seven parameter-specific knobs make editing a breeze. An up arrow shows where the knob was originally set. > I'm easily able to dial in those most important controls ## Deep editing options Pressing the value encoder opens further settings for low end, size, diffusion, output level, pan, and loads more options. ## No app editing yet The Nixie 2 app still can't edit presets, only load impulse responses and add new presets. Strymon promises this in a future update. ## Spring reverb shines The Drippy Spring preset is delightful, perfect for surf rock noodling and tremolo picking on a Strat-style guitar. ## Cloud engine stays clear The Silverscreen preset manages to be washy and atmospheric without drowning out your core playing or original guitar tone. ## Shimmer tracks brilliantly The shimmer engine tracks complex chords and non-linear harmonies. You can add two different harmonies at once in dual engine mode. ## Magneto blurs the line The magneto engine is tape echo emulation that blurs into reverb at higher diffusion. It really shines paired with another reverb in dual mode. ## Presets balance perfectly The presets are remarkably good at balancing the wash of reverb whilst still keeping the attack when you strike the strings. > The presets are remarkably good at balancing the wash of reverb whilst still keeping the attack when I strike the strings. ## Studio-quality algorithms The sound quality is unbelievably good, up there with Line 6, Neural, Eventide, and Boss. It covers all bases from classic room to ambient wash. ## Overkill for some At well north of $600, it's overkill if you just want one or two reverb sounds. Some players could get lost in option paralysis. ## Worth the upgrade It's a worthwhile upgrade for BigSky owners and a huge boon for players who want a wealth of top-quality reverb tones at their fingertips. > It's incredibly easy to edit and adjust sounds ## Key takeaway The BigSky MX delivers exceptional reverb tones with remarkably easy hands-on control, making it worth the premium price for serious players.