Essential Information About the TSAKALIS Zipper MKII Pedal
- Discrete, silent optical compressor with high headroom to preserve the character of your guitar.
- Two selectable ratios: Soft 4:1 for musical compression, Hard 10:1 for a more pronounced and punchy effect.
- Attack and release auto-adjusted via the hand-selected optical element.
- "Clean boost"/maximizer function with compression set around 9 o'clock, ideal for pushing an amp or evening out a set.
Studio Sound in a Compact Format
Inspired by the aesthetics of major studio optical compressors, the Zipper MKII condenses this musicality into a pedalboard chassis. A modernized version of the Zipper model, it prioritizes simplicity: few controls, but an organic and consistent response reminiscent of legendary outboards, without the complexity of multiple settings.
For Whom and Which Styles?
Perfect for guitarists from beginner to advanced levels seeking natural sustain and controlled attack. In clean mode, it adds "snap" for funk, pop, and country/chicken picking; in crunch/drive, it thickens the mids for blues or rock. Its transparency makes it an excellent tool both in the studio and live, at the front of your pedalboard chain.
Guitar-Oriented Controls and Ergonomics
Two controls suffice:
LEVEL for output volume and
COMPRESS for threshold/amount of compression. A mini-toggle switch switches between
Soft 4:1 and
Hard 10:1 ratios. The optocoupler automatically manages Attack and Release based on your playing, for an immediate analog feel. True Bypass, robust enclosure, 6.35 mm jack in/out, standard 9 V DC power supply: everything is designed for simple and reliable integration.
Sound Characteristics
The Zipper MKII colors little: the bass remains tight, the mids gain cohesion, and the highs retain their brilliance without harshness. At low settings, it smooths transients and provides a "bigger" sensation without crushing the attack. At higher settings, the sound becomes percussive and very responsive to pick playing: perfect for precise arpeggios, funky rhythms, or leads that hold notes elegantly.
Technical Specifications
Type and Construction
- Optical compression pedal for electric guitar
- Hand-selected optical element
- Aluminum chassis, robust footswitch
- True Bypass
- Handmade in Athens (Greece)
Controls and Modes
- Potentiometers: LEVEL, COMPRESS
- Toggle switch: Soft 4:1 / Hard 10:1 ratios
- Auto-adjusted Attack/Release
- Usable as "clean boost" with low compression (around 9 o'clock)
Connectivity
- Input and output 6.35 mm jack (mono)
- Power supply via 9 V DC adapter, center negative polarity
Included Accessories
- Power supply: not included
- Original box and documentation
Power Consumption
- Required voltage: regulated 9 V DC (center negative)
- Consumption: not specified by the manufacturer
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