Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost Pedal

OB.1 combines studio quality, beautifully transparent analog optical compression with a Clean Boost with EQ curves designed to super-charge your favorite amp and reveal its true character. Featuring an all-analog signal path with premium components throughout, a high-impedance input, and very low noise circuitry, OB.1 is perfect for the number one spot in your signal chain. It’s the missing piece you’ve been searching for.

Your Amp—Reborn.
There is a monster trapped inside your low or medium gain amp, and OB.1 can set it free. Bring out your amp’s character in ways you never thought possible. Hear things you never knew your amp could do.
OB.1 provides greater than 20dB of gain-compensated compression, and with the integrated Clean Boost, an extra 10dB of full-frequency, mid or treble boost is available. Use the mid or treble boost together with a bit of transparent compression, and your amp will sound like it was just modified by a world-class boutique amp designer.

Clean Up Your Playing.
Arpeggios, sweep-picking, hammer-ons, and other blazing techniques benefit when each note is played at a consistent level. OB.1’s optical compression preserves your attacks while smoothing out the overall signal, bringing out the softer notes. You can also enjoy the sustain of high gain without too much of the fizzy stuff. And OB.1’s extremely quiet analog signal path with its high-quality, low noise op amp and high-impedance input is perfect in front of your high-gain setup.

Clean Boost With Curves.
The first stage of a high gain amplifier channel doesn’t just boost gain, it also boosts high-end in such a way so that the distorted signal can cut through without getting bogged down by too much low-end. When you use OB.1 first in your signal chain and engage the mid or treble boost, that’s exactly what you’re achieving. Even if you’ve tried boost pedals before, you’ll be surprised by the transformation of your tone. Try the treble boost with humbuckers for biting solos or the mid boost to fatten up single coil pickups. There is also a flat setting for full-frequency Clean Boost.

Internal DIP Switches for Additional Tweakability.
Chances are that you will quickly find a setting that makes your guitar and amplifier really sing, but for additional control, OB.1 allows you to fine tune the Boost EQ curve to fit your guitar and amplifier via internal DIP switches. The Treble Boost corner frequency is switchable between about 1.5 kHz or 2 kHz, and the Mid Boost peak frequency is switchable between around 800 Hz and 1.1 kHz.

Specification:

Sounds

• True Bypass (electromechanical relay switching)
• Greater than 20dB of gain compensated compression
• Additional 10dB of full frequency, mid, or treble boost with Clean Boost engaged
• Treble Boost Frequency: Shelf at about 1.5 kHz or 2kHz switchable with internal DIP switches
• Mid Boost Frequency: Peak around 800 Hz or 1.1kHz switchable with internal DIP switches

Ins & Outs

• High impedance TS mono input
• Low impedance TS mono output
• 9V battery included, can also accept any standard 9V DC center negative power
• supply (20 mA current draw)
• Strong and lightweight anodized orange aluminum chassis

For musicians and sound engineers seeking unparalleled control over their tone, the Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost Pedal offers a sophisticated solution that elevates your sound without compromising its natural character. Whether you perform live, record in the studio, or practice at home, this pedal is designed to enhance your instrument’s dynamics and presence, ensuring every note is articulated with clarity and warmth. If you’ve ever struggled with inconsistent volume levels or wished your solos could stand out without distortion, the OB.1 provides a professional-grade answer that is both versatile and easy to use.

At its core, the OB.1 combines two powerful effects — an optical compressor and a clean boost — in a single pedal. The optical compressor uses light-dependent resistors to gently smooth out your playing dynamics, reducing harsh peaks while preserving the original tone. What this means for you is a more consistent sound that feels natural and musical, not overly processed. You can achieve everything from subtle dynamic control to classic vintage compression tones, which makes your playing sound fuller and more professional across all genres.

The clean boost feature is equally valuable, delivering up to +26dB of gain to push your amp or other pedals without adding unwanted distortion or color. This means you can emphasize your solos, add sustain, or simply increase your volume with pristine clarity. Unlike many boosts that alter your tone, the OB.1’s clean boost maintains your instrument’s true sound, allowing you to cut through the mix effortlessly without sacrificing tonal integrity.

In practical terms, the Strymon OB.1 is built with the highest quality components and a sturdy metal enclosure, ensuring durability for road use and frequent gigs. It features simple yet precise controls that let you dial in the perfect blend of compression and boost quickly. The pedal is powered by a standard 9V DC power supply and consumes minimal current, making it compatible with most pedalboards and power sources. Its compact footprint means it fits easily alongside your other effects without taking up excessive space.

Usage scenarios for the OB.1 are diverse. Guitarists looking to tighten their rhythm playing will appreciate the compressor’s ability to smooth out uneven picking and finger dynamics, resulting in a polished sound that enhances every chord. Lead players can engage the clean boost to highlight solos and add sustain without losing articulation. Bassists can also benefit from the pedal’s transparent compression and clean volume increase, providing more definition and presence in the low end. Additionally, the pedal’s optical compressor is known for its ultra-fast response time, which means it reacts instantly to your playing without lag or pumping artifacts.

In summary, the Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost Pedal is a must-have tool for any serious musician who values tone clarity, dynamic control, and reliable performance. Priced attractively at ₹20,700 on sale from ₹23,000, it offers exceptional value given its high-end features and build quality. Whether you’re refining your studio recordings or delivering flawless live performances, the OB.1 gives you the confidence to play your best with a sound that truly represents your musical expression. Invest in the OB.1 and experience professional-grade compression and boost that enhances your sound, not overshadows it.