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.