SMOOTH IMPACT

Sku: VE-SI

Product Description

Produce Clear Tones with a Gentle Touch
The First Vacuum Tube Compressor in Pedal Form

SMOOTH IMPACT is a genuine vacuum tube compressor that utilizes the gain variation resulting from fluctuations in Nutube’s power supply voltage. It marks the debut of a pedal-type vacuum tube compressor, offering a distinct, natural playing feel unlike compressors of other types. Instead of conventional VCA, optical, or FET methods, it harnesses the non-linear realm of tubes, featuring harmonics derived uniquely from vacuum tubes, setting it apart from clipping.

Emphasizing the compression effect, it not only provides cutting tones but also allows for a solid sound with a light touch, even with settings that don’t convey the nuances of compression. This makes it highly effective for players who are not fans of compressors and for modern-style clean-tone backing, tapping, and more. Additionally, connecting it to solid-state amps or digital devices and incorporating the nuances of vacuum tubes is recommended. You can choose the character with the mini switch.

VTG (Vintage) Mode

Emphasizing the attack, this mode produces a classic sound with extended sustain. It’s effective for creating impactful sounds with cutting techniques.

NAT (Natural) Mode

As the name suggests, it offers a natural feel, avoiding the sensation of «obviously using a compressor pedal.» While providing a natural playing experience, it brings out nuances that may be subtle on high strings, making it perfect for modern backing or tapping performances.

Compared to Vintage Mode, NAT Mode operates quickly, applying compression from the attack and featuring a shorter release. This makes it effective for achieving a natural sustain control, aligning the granularity of sound, or boosting volume without unnatural sustain control.

SAG (Sagging) Mode

This mode replicates the sag (SAG) that occurs when vintage tube amps are played at high volumes. It delivers the natural compression and distortion obtained when playing a tube amp, making it ideal for combining with equipment like transistor amps or digital modelers to bring out the essence of a tube amp. Sag, felt when playing a guitar amp, is a phenomenon caused by a drop in power supply voltage, encompassing not only compression but also distortion from the power tube. In this mode, Nutube’s distortion is actively utilized to reproduce sag through the combination of distortion and compression.

Compressors with numerous controls can be challenging to adjust for sound. Therefore, by selecting one of the three modes based on the situation or preference, adjusting with the Tube Gain and Comp knobs, and finally adjusting the volume with the Output knob, you can easily achieve your desired sound.

Controls

TUBE GAIN: Adjusts the amount of signal sent to Nutube. As you turn it, distortion from Nutube is gradually introduced.

COMP: Controls the compression level. It allows you to adjust the texture of compression through interaction with TUBE GAIN.

OUTPUT: Adjusts the output volume.

Mini Switch: Offers three modes that you can choose based on your preference and the situation.

VTG (Vintage): This mode has a fast attack time and a slow release time. Compression kicks in from the attack, making it the most intensely compressed mode. It delivers the typical sound of a compressed guitar.

NAT (Natural): With a slow attack time and a fast release time, this setting preserves the attack feel while providing compression, resulting in a more natural nuance.

SAG (Sagging): This mode provides a natural compression and distortion, similar to what you experience when playing a tube power amp. It’s ideal for adding a tube amp-like quality to solid-state amps or digital equipment.

Maximizing the characteristics of Nutube, a pedal series that brings out the unique features of combined equipment.

The Valvenergy series has been well received as a pedal series that delivers the response of a tube amp, and now four new models are added to the lineup.

All models are equipped with the next-generation Nutube tube, and include a booster (Power Burst), a tube compressor (Smooth Impact), an overdrive (Fuel Injector), and a graphic equalizer (Tone Sculptor) ; a complete set of effects that are a must-have for guitarists. The pedals are designed to take full advantage of the characteristics of the guitars, effects pedals, and amplifiers combined before and after the pedal, and are simple and natural pedals that you will never get bored with and will want to play forever.

The VOX original sound that cannot be categorized as a «-type» sound, and the organic tube-like sound that cannot be imitated anywhere else by utilizing Nutube, have been voiced through repeated trial and error and adjustments.

Newly Developed Buffer Circuit

To harness the full potential of Nutube, a high-quality buffer was essential for the initial stage, serving as the guitar’s primary entry point. Consequently, we engineered a dedicated buffer circuit to meet this requirement. When the effects are deactivated, the Nutube functions as a buffered bypass, providing a natural response and a light feel akin to plugging a 3-meter shield directly into the amp. With the effects activated, the buffer’s traits are synergized with Nutube’s distinctive compression, resulting in a playing experience that is both light and easy, with nuances that enhance your performance.

Sound-Inspired Etched Design

The top panel of the new chassis features an etched design inspired by the unique sound of each effect pedal. The visual appeal of an effects pedal on a board is a crucial consideration in selecting your gear. The organic design of the Valvenergy series is sure to enhance the overall aesthetics of your board with a cool and distinctive touch.

Especificaciones

Inputs/Outputs

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

Controls

TUBE GAIN: Adjusts the amount of signal sent to Nutube. As you turn it, distortion from Nutube is gradually introduced.

COMP: Controls the compression level. It allows you to adjust the texture of compression through interaction with TUBE GAIN.

OUTPUT: Adjusts the output volume.

Mini Switch: Offers three modes that you can choose based on your preference and the situation.

NAT (Natural): With a slow attack time and a fast release time, this setting preserves the attack feel while providing compression, resulting in a more natural nuance.

Power Supply*

9V alkaline batteries (6LF22/6LR62) or DC.9V AC adapter (both sold separately)

*: The use of an AC adaptor is recommended as the unit’s power consumption is relatively high. Should you prefer to use batteries, please use the alkaline type.