Xotic SP Compressor

The Xotic SP Compressor, released in the 2010s, is a compact and versatile compression pedal that has become a favorite among guitarists and bassists for its high-quality sound and user-friendly design. Inspired by the legendary Ross Compressor, the SP Compressor uses OTA (operational transconductance amplifier) technology to deliver smooth, transparent compression. Its small size, wide tonal range, and blend control for mixing dry and compressed signals make it suitable for a variety of playing styles and genres.

Historical Development

• Design Philosophy: The SP Compressor was designed to provide studio-grade compression in a compact format. It offers controls for Volume and Blend, along with a 3-way toggle switch (High, Mid, Low) to adjust the compression range. Internal dip switches allow further customization of attack and release times.
• Features: The pedal includes true bypass switching, up to +15dB of boost, and the ability to run on a 9V battery or power supply. These features make it both versatile and practical for live and studio use.
• Impact: The SP Compressor quickly gained popularity due to its simplicity, tonal flexibility, and ability to enhance dynamics without overwhelming the natural sound of the instrument.

Notable Players

• Paul Jackson Jr.: The renowned session guitarist has praised the SP Compressor for its ability to add clarity and sustain while maintaining tonal integrity.
• Worship Guitarists: The pedal is widely used in worship music settings for its ability to create smooth, chime-like tones.
• Session Players: Its transparent sound and adaptability have made it a favorite among professional session musicians.

Popular Settings

The SP Compressor's controls allow for a wide range of applications:

• Subtle Compression: Blend at 50%, Volume at noon, Toggle switch on "Low" for light dynamic control.
• Chimey Clean Tones: Blend at 70%, Volume at 1:00, Toggle on "Mid" for enhanced clarity in rhythm playing (e.g., Tom Petty-style tones).
• Boosted Sustain: Blend at 80%, Volume at 2:00, Toggle on "High" for solos or sustained leads.

Legacy

The Xotic SP Compressor has become a modern classic in the world of compression pedals. Its compact design, tonal versatility, and ease of use have made it an essential tool for players across genres. Whether used subtly as an always-on pedal or as a dynamic enhancer for specific parts of a performance, the SP Compressor continues to set the standard for high-quality compression in a small package.