Hulk
Subharmonic synthesizer inspired by 1995 DOD Meatbox, generating one-octave-down bass boost for massive low-end, featuring internal 30Hz/60Hz trimpots, kill-dry switch, dedicated dry output, and streamlined controls from Denver builders Luis Etscheid and Caleb Henning.
The Mantic Hulk represents an evolution of the company's original Density Hulk subharmonic synthesizer, heavily inspired by the infamous 1995 DOD Meatbox bass-booster pedal. Founded in spring 2013 by Luis Etscheid and Caleb Henning, Mantic Conceptual launched from Denver, Colorado with their first pedal being an updated and modified take on DOD's rare subharmonic synthesizer, which they christened Density Hulk. The Hulk is the streamlined successor, offering the same massive one-octave-down synthesis in a more compact, pedalboard-friendly enclosure.
The subharmonic synthesis circuit generates bass frequencies one octave below your input signal, creating earth-shaking low-end impossible to achieve through standard amplification. Unlike octave-up fuzzes that add high harmonics, the Hulk digs down into subsonic territory, making it particularly beloved by bassists seeking to add foundational weight and synth-like low-end presence. The circuit tracks monophonic playing best, with polyphonic input creating complex interactions between generated subharmonics. Internal trimpots control the 30Hz and 60Hz frequency bands, shipped at maximum by default—most players set these once and leave them, hence Mantic's decision to move them internal to save panel space.
The Hulk features several improvements over typical Meatbox clones. Maximum output volume has been increased compared to the older Density Hulk model, ensuring the generated subharmonics can match or exceed your dry signal level. Unlike other updated sub pedals that eliminated the dedicated dry output to save space, Mantic retained this critical feature—the dedicated dry jack allows you to route your unaffected signal separately from the synthesized sub, perfect for running your dry tone to your amp while sending sub frequencies direct to FOH or a dedicated bass rig. An internal switch enables kill-dry functionality, silencing the unaffected signal when the pedal is disengaged for players who want sub-only operation without dry signal bleed.
The compact enclosure uses modern 9V barrel power jack with standard center-negative polarity, eliminating the need for vintage power supplies. True bypass switching with heavy-duty mechanical footswitch ensures signal integrity. The Denver-built Hulk has found favor with bassists, experimental guitarists, and electronic musicians seeking genuine subharmonic synthesis rather than simple EQ-based bass boost. Notable Mantic users include Adrian Belew (King Crimson, Nine Inch Nails), Ikey Owens (Jack White's touring band), and Ed Rodriguez (Deerhoof), though their association is with other Mantic pedals in the extensive lineup.
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