CompanDrive 65

The CompanDrive 65 is a faithful recreation of the legendary companding circuit found on virtually every studio tape recording since the introduction of the first Dolby noise reduction process in 1965. This all-analog SoloDallas design captures the elusive studio magic heard on countless classic recordings.

At its core, the signal path is carefully recreated and optimized: the guitar first passes through the Vintage Console Gain Circuit which utilizes the famed LM308 op-amp, then into the 65 Compressor, followed by the 65 Expander, and finally through our Vintage OpAmp Boost. Together, these perfectly balanced stages comprise a secret recipe of warmth, harmonics and dynamics, producing that immediately familiar je ne sais quoi from the golden era of recording.

From the moment you click it on, the CompanDrive 65 reveals itself as a missing link—unlocking a wide range of inspiring, mix-ready studio guitar tones with depth, clarity, and musical feel.

Signal Path Breakdown

Vintage Console Gain Circuit (VCGC)

Produces rich, hi-fi overdrive with abundant harmonics while subtly shaping frequencies to add fullness, presence, and clarity in the mix.

65 Compressor

Delivers a smooth, blooming soft-knee attack that enhances note separation and adds musical harmonic clipping without choking dynamics.

65 Expander

Restores overall signal amplitude, removing unwanted “pump and squish” while further emphasizing the harmonics generated by the VCGC and compressor stages.

Vintage OpAmp Boost

A classic op-amp design that preserves delicate frequencies and maintains clarity as output level is increased, making the CompanDrive 65 equally at home on a pedalboard or in the studio.

SPECIFICATIONS

• 100% Analog Circuitry
• Commercial Grade PCB
• Heavy Duty True Bypass Footswitch
• Blue LED when effect is engaged
• Neutrik Jacks
• 12-15

vDC - Center Negative - 200 mA - PSU Power Only (sold separately)

Enclosure Dimensions: 4.69” D x 2.52” W x 1.57” H
Made in USA