HARMAN’s DigiTech today announced the re-introduction of its DOD Compressor 280 guitar effects pedal bringing back the unmistakable smooth sustain and volume “squeeze” that only an electro-optical compressor can deliver. The Compressor 280 keeps all the distinctive sonic personality of the original while adding modern pedalboard-friendly features.
Photo above: DOD Compressor 280 (click for hi-res version)
“The DOD Compressor 280 sounded so good the first time around that we didn’t do anything to change its characteristic sound quality and responsiveness,” said Tom Cram, Market Manager, DigiTech. “However, while we want to respect DOD’s history we’re also committed to giving modern guitarists the features they need, and all of our re-issue pedals including the Compressor 280 offer true bypass operation, an LED indicator and a 9-volt power supply jack.”
The DOD Compressor 280 employs an electro-optical circuit that varies the amount of the pedal’s dynamic compression using a light-dependent resistor and internal LED. At lower settings the “Comp” knob adds a subtle volume-levelling effect that adds a touch of evenness to the guitar’s signal, bringing up the level of low-volume playing and limiting the maximum volume of harder-hit single-note passages and chords. At higher settings the Comp knob “squashes” the initial attack and raises the level of notes and chords as they decay. The Level knob controls the overall volume of the effected signal and can act as a volume boost if desired.
“Whether you need to keep your guitar volume consistent when recording, are a country player who wants to avoid drastic volume changes when alternating between single notes and chords, or are an adventurous guitarist looking to add extreme compression to your rhythm and lead playing, the Compressor 280 can give you all these sounds and more,” Cram noted.
The Compressor 280’s true bypass operation keeps the tone of the instrument pristine when the effect is not in use. Its 9-volt DC power supply input makes the Compressor 280 far more pedalboard-friendly than the original and its bright blue LED indicator is easy to see on any stage. The pedal’s retro-classic look is evocative of its 1970s origins, while its road-tough enclosure ensures it’ll be around for years to come.
The DOD Compressor 280 will be available in late November 2014 at a price of £89 RRP inc VAT.
