Kma Audio Machines Pylon

A "Studio" Approach to Silence, Designed for Modern Rigs

With the Pylon, KMA Machines doesn't just "cut noise": the idea is to provide guitarists (or bassists) with a comprehensive control tool, capable of integrating into complex setups without degrading dynamics. Its high-performance noise reduction based on a Blackmer VCA aims for precise and consistent action, with fast closing when needed, yet musical enough not to chop the sustain.

Within the KMA range, the Pylon positions itself as a premium utility pedal: a boutique noise gate that combines noise reduction, boost, routing, and control options to avoid stacking multiple boxes on the pedalboard.

Who Is the KMA Machines Pylon For?

The Pylon targets demanding guitarists playing with high gain levels (hard rock, metal, modern metal, hardcore, djent), but also those who simply want impeccable silence in the studio or on stage. It is equally comfortable on a minimalist pedalboard (classic input/output) as in a more elaborate setup with effects loop and 4-cable method.

It is also suitable for bassists and synth/drum machine users seeking a fast, clean gate capable of being triggered creatively via an external source. In live settings, its "all-in-one" nature (gate + boost + amp switch) reduces pops and ensures reliable sound changes.

Controls, Modes, and Integration: A Complete Control Pedal

The Pylon combines a noise reduction section and a boost/cut section, usable independently or together. You have a Threshold control to set the level at which the gate opens and closes, as well as two detection thresholds/ranges (via selector) to tailor the response: softer to let notes fade naturally, or faster to lock down ultra-tight rhythms.

The Boost section can be engaged separately or synced with the noise reduction activation, depending on the chosen mode. The Cut control with variable frequency (65 to 730 Hz) tightens the low end: ideal for cleaning up bass frequencies before a saturated preamp, gaining precision, and avoiding "muddy" effects with low tunings.

Regarding connectivity, the presence of a Send/Return loop opens the door to multiple wiring options, including the 4-cable method, convenient for targeted gating (for example: triggering the gate with the clean guitar signal while processing hiss generated by gain stages). The Ext input allows for external triggering : remote activation or gate controlled by an external source for rhythmic effects and even finer control. Finally, the Channel output with polarity selector enables synchronization of the pedal with your amp's gain channel switching via an integrated relay switch.

The Sound

The Pylon's signature is a "clean" silence without any sense of squashing: the attack remains crisp, palm mutes are ultra-clean, and the gate's response can be adjusted to stay natural on note decays. The VCA provides smooth and predictable action, highly appreciated in the studio when layering saturated guitar tracks.

The built-in audio transformer adds a feeling of a more solid rig: increased density, a more stable low-mid foundation, and a more "coherent" rendering when stacking gain stages. Add to that the Boost/cut and variable Cut control: the Pylon can serve both as a guardian of silence and a true sculpting tool to make a high-gain sound more precise, tighter, and clearer in the mix.

Technical specifications

Effects	Boost, Noise Gate	Type	sector
Technology	Analog	Use	electric guitar
Format	Pedal	Color	Multicolor
EQ	High-pass filter

Boost activation modes	separate or synchronized with noise reduction	Power supply	9 V DC (not included)
Ext input	external control of noise reduction and activation / triggering by external source	Current required	over 160 mA
Channel output	synchronization with amp gain channel activation