Ampeg OPTOCOMP-U
Ampeg OPTOCOMP-U
Ampeg OPTOCOMP-U
Ampeg OPTOCOMP-U
Ampeg OPTOCOMP-U Analog Optical Compressor Pedal
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At A Glance

Signal-to-Noise Ratio
80 dB (100 Hz @ 1.00V RMS)
Maximum Gain
+14 dB
Compression Ratio, dB (I/O
Minimum: 1:1 / Maximum: 10:1
Release Time
Minimum: 75 milliseconds / Maximum: 600 milliseconds
Output Level Gain
Mute to +14 dB
Impedances
Input 1 M Ω NORMAL, 166 kΩ w/–15 dB PAD | Output 200 Ω
Power Requirements
Internal: 9V Battery / External: 9V DC, ≥25 mA, center negative
Size (H x W x D
2.2 in x 2.6 in x 4.5 in / 56 mm x 66 mm x 114 mm
Weight
0.6 lb / 0.3 kg (approximately)
Circuit Type
Analog optical
Description

Ampeg produced the OPTOCOMP-U as an analog optical compressor pedal, positioning it as a compact stompbox for guitar and bass players seeking smooth, vintage-style dynamics control.

The pedal employs an optical circuit design to achieve its compression character. It operates across a compression ratio range from 1:1 up to 10:1, with release times spanning 75 milliseconds to 600 milliseconds, allowing for both subtle peak control and more pronounced compression effects. Output level gain runs from mute to +14 dB, with a maximum gain of +14 dB and a signal-to-noise ratio of 80 dB measured at 100 Hz at 1.00V RMS. The input impedance is 1 MΩ in normal operation and 166 kΩ when the −15 dB pad is engaged; output impedance is 200 Ω. The unit accepts power from an internal 9V battery or an external 9V DC supply requiring at least 25 mA with a center-negative connector. The enclosure measures 2.2 in × 2.6 in × 4.5 in (56 mm × 66 mm × 114 mm) and weighs approximately 0.6 lb (0.3 kg).

Owners requiring service, calibration or assistance identifying compatible power supplies and signal chain components should consult a qualified guitar technician.

Expert Analysis
Specifications
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 80 dB (100 Hz @ 1.00V RMS)
Maximum Gain: +14 dB
Compression Ratio, dB (I/O: Minimum: 1:1 / Maximum: 10:1
Release Time: Minimum: 75 milliseconds / Maximum: 600 milliseconds
Output Level Gain: Mute to +14 dB
Impedances: Input 1 M Ω NORMAL, 166 kΩ w/–15 dB PAD | Output 200 Ω
Power Requirements: Internal: 9V Battery / External: 9V DC, ≥25 mA, center negative
Size (H x W x D: 2.2 in x 2.6 in x 4.5 in / 56 mm x 66 mm x 114 mm
Weight: 0.6 lb / 0.3 kg (approximately)
Circuit Type: Analog optical
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Ampeg OPTOCOMP-U Analog Optical Compressor Pedal

$139.99
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