Strymon Compadre Dual Voice Compressor and Boost

The Strymon Compadre Dual Voice Compressor and Boost is a versatile, all-analog pedal that combines two essential tools a studio-quality compressor and a flexible boost into a single unit for front-end tone shaping.

The pedal is designed to be the starting point of your signal chain, giving your tone a professional polish with its premium Class A JFET input circuit.

Key Features

1. Dual-Voice Analog Compressor

The VCA (Voltage-Controlled Amplifier) compression section is analog and offers two distinct voicings:

• Studio Mode: Provides a smooth, transparent compression, similar to what you'd find in high-end vintage studio rack units. It adds shimmer and sustain without overtly squashing the tone.

• Squeeze Mode: Delivers a harder, more aggressive compression typical of classic stompbox compressors, providing maximum sustain and a noticeable "squash."

• Dry Control: A dedicated Dry knob allows for parallel compression, letting you blend in the original, uncompressed signal to maintain natural attack and playing dynamics while benefiting from the sustain of the compressed signal.

2. Independent, Flexible Boost

The boost circuit is independent, footswitchable, and can be placed before or after the compressor (it is post-compression by default and can be independently engaged).

• Boost Type Switch (Rear Panel):

  • Clean: A transparent boost that increases the output level without noticeable clipping.

  • Dirty: A soft-clipping boost that introduces the characteristic saturation of an overdrive pedal, perfect for pushing an amp.

• Boost EQ Switch (Front Panel): Selects the frequency curve for the boost:

  • Flat: A full-range, transparent volume boost.

  • Treble: Emphasizes mid to high frequencies and tightens the low-end, acting like a classic treble booster.

  • Mid: Pushes midrange frequencies to fatten your tone and help you cut through the mix for solos.

3. Extended Control and Connectivity

• VCA Volume Pedal: The dedicated Volume jack allows you to connect a TRS expression pedal to use the Compadre as a premium, clean VCA-based volume control.

• MIDI Control: The FAV/MIDI jack allows for the connection of an external switch (like the Strymon MiniSwitch) to recall a favorite preset, or connection to a MIDI controller to access up to 300 preset locations.

• Bypass: Features selectable True Bypass (via electromechanical relay) or ultra-low-noise Buffered Bypass.