If you’re a live electronic musician or producer searching for a compact, affordable, and powerful mastering solution to elevate your hardware live sets without a laptop, the Endorphin Golden Master Pedal might be exactly what you need.
In this review, we’ll dive deep into why this pedal is gaining traction since its 2023 release, what makes it special, and how it can transform your live audio with pro-level punch and polish.
About me & Context
Hi, I’m Haiko, an electronic music artist passionate about live performance — both pure hardware and hybrid setups. Since switching fully to hardware a few years ago, I’ve been on the hunt for an end-of-chain mastering device that is both effective and affordable. The Golden Master Pedal has been a game-changer in my live rig.
What Is the Endorphin Golden Master Pedal?
The Golden Master Pedal is a multiband mastering processor designed to bring your live set’s output to a polished, “studio-ready” quality without needing a laptop or bulky outboard gear.
- Competes with DJ set levels in output punch and loudness.
- Adds clarity, punchiness, and professional polish.
- Extremely compact — fits easily on any pedalboard or desktop setup.
Key Features & Functions
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Multiband EQ | Three-band EQ with on/off toggle and kill switches, great for live sound shaping. |
| Multiband Compressor | Independent compression on low, mid, and high bands. |
| Mid/Side Stereo Processor | Stereo widening and mono bass control, perfect for live mastering. |
| Input Gain & Threshold | Master level control for overall loudness and compression. |
| Sidechain Input | Allows external kick or rhythm signal to duck other frequencies (classic sidechain compression). |
| Preset Memory | Three user presets for quick recall (indoor, outdoor, studio, etc.). |
| VU Meter Modes | Toggle between input and processed output level displays. |
How It Works in Your Live Setup
Audio from your gear (e.g., Octatrack, modular synths) feeds into the Golden Master Pedal, which then outputs the mastered signal to your PA system or audio interface. The pedal’s intuitive controls let you tweak EQ, compression, and stereo width on the fly, making it ideal for dynamic live performances.
Hands-On Impressions
- EQ Kill Switches: Great for live mixing and performance effects, much like a DJ mixer’s channel kills.
- Compression: The multiband compressor allows you to dial in punchy, controlled dynamics that keep your mix tight.
- Stereo Control: The mid/side processor lets you mono your bass for clarity on club systems while widening mids and highs for immersive sound.
- Preset Recall: Quickly switch between different mastering setups depending on venue size or style.
Sound Demo: Before & After
Listen to the pedal’s effect as it transforms a raw, dry live mix into a crisp, punchy, and club-ready soundscape — adding weight to bass, clarity to highs, and overall loudness without distortion.
Price & Value
The Endorphin Golden Master Pedal retails around €295–€350, making it highly affordable compared to other mastering devices that can cost thousands. Its compact size and extensive feature set provide exceptional value for live electronic musicians.
Tips for Best Results
- Use the sidechain input with a kick drum to create natural pumping effects.
- Always mono your bass frequencies via the mid/side section for clean, club-friendly sound.
- Experiment with EQ kill switches live for performance variation.
- Take time during soundcheck to dial in your perfect mastering settings for each venue.
Final Thoughts
The Endorphin Golden Master Pedal is a powerful, space-saving mastering solution that perfectly fits the needs of hardware-based live electronic performers. Its combination of multiband EQ, compressor, stereo control, and sidechain input makes it a rare and valuable tool in a small package — and at a budget-friendly price.
If you’re looking to take your live sets from good to professional-quality sound, this pedal is absolutely worth checking out.