VOX SMOOTH IMPACT [VE-SI] (Vacuum Tube Compressor)

The first pedal-type vacuum tube compressor that delivers clear tone with a gentle touch

SMOOTH IMPACT is a full-fledged vacuum tube compressor that utilizes gain changes caused by fluctuations in the Nutube's power supply voltage. It's a pedal-type vacuum tube compressor that delivers a unique, natural playing feel not found in other types of compressors. Instead of using conventional VCA, optical, or FET methods, it utilizes the nonlinear region of the vacuum tube, featuring harmonics uniquely derived from the tube, setting it apart from clipping.

This pedal emphasizes compression, delivering a solid sound with a light touch, not just for cutting tones, but also for settings where the compression nuances are not noticeable. This makes it extremely effective for players who aren't fans of compressors, or for modern clean backing and tapping tones. It's also recommended to connect it to a solid-state amplifier or digital device to incorporate the nuances of vacuum tubes. A mini switch allows you to select the character.

VTG (Vintage) Mode This mode emphasizes the attack and produces a classic sound with long sustain. It is effective when you want to create an impactful sound using cutting techniques.

NAT (Natural) Mode: As the name suggests, this mode provides a natural feel without the obvious feeling of using a compressor pedal. It brings out subtle nuances in the high strings while still providing a natural playing feel, making it ideal for modern backing and tapping playing.
Compared to Vintage mode, NAT mode operates faster, applies compression from the attack and has a shorter release, making it effective for achieving natural sustain control, smoothing out the grain of the sound, and increasing the volume without unnatural sustain control.

SAG Mode: This mode recreates the sag that occurs when playing a vintage tube amp at high volumes. It delivers the natural compression and distortion you get when playing a tube amp, making it ideal for bringing out the true essence of a tube amp when combined with a transistor amp or digital modeler. The sag you feel when playing a guitar amp is a phenomenon caused by a drop in power supply voltage, and includes not only compression but also distortion from the power tubes. This mode actively utilizes the Nutube's distortion to recreate sag through a combination of distortion and compression.
Compressors with numerous controls can make it difficult to tweak the sound, so simply select one of three modes depending on the situation and your preferences, adjust the Tube Gain and Comp knobs, and finally adjust the volume with the Output knob to easily achieve the sound you want.




■ Control

TUBE GAIN: Adjusts the amount of signal sent to the Nutube. Turning this knob gradually adds Nutube distortion.
COMP: Controls the compression level. Interacts with TUBE GAIN to adjust the compression texture.
Output: Adjust the output volume.
Mini Switch: Provides three modes for you to choose based on your preferences and situations.
VTG (Vintage): This mode has a fast attack time and a slow release time. Compression starts from the attack and is the most aggressive compression mode. It provides the typical sound of a compressed guitar.
NAT (Natural): This setting uses a slower attack and faster release time to add compression while preserving the attack, resulting in a more natural nuance.
SAG (Sagging): This mode provides natural compression and distortion similar to what you'd experience when playing through a tube power amp. It's perfect for adding a tube-like texture to solid-state amps and digital gear.


■Specifications

Input/Output
INPUT terminal (monaural phone jack), OUTPUT terminal (monaural phone jack), DC.9V terminal

control
TUBE GAIN: Adjusts the amount of signal sent to the Nutube. Turning this knob gradually adds Nutube distortion.
COMP: Controls the compression level. Interacts with TUBE GAIN to adjust the compression texture.
Output: Adjust the output volume.
Mini Switch: Provides three modes for you to choose according to your preference and situation.
VTG (Vintage): This mode has a fast attack time and a slow release time. Compression starts from the attack and is the most aggressive compression mode. It provides the typical sound of a compressed guitar.
NAT (Natural): This setting uses a slower attack and faster release time to add compression while preserving the attack, resulting in a more natural nuance.
SAG (Sagging): This mode provides natural compression and distortion similar to the experience of playing through a tube power amp. Perfect for adding a tube-like texture to solid-state amps and digital gear.

power supply*
9V alkaline battery (6LF22/6LR61) or DC 9V AC adapter (both sold separately)
*: Because this unit consumes a lot of power, we recommend using an AC adapter. If you want to use batteries, please use alkaline batteries.

Dimensions (width x depth x height)
72mm×120mm×55mm (VE-TS H:54mm)

body weight
300g (batteries not included)

Accessories
AC adapter KA181 (9V) (sold separately)