The Smooth Impact is the compressor pedal from the Vox “Valvenergy” series, equipped with a Nutube valve. Characterized by the particular LED display that shows the signal response to the effect, it consists of Tube Gain knobs to adjust the amount of signal sent to the Nutube valve, Comp to adjust the level of compression, Output to adjust the signal output level and 3 modes of use, VTG (Vintage), NAT (Natural) and SAG (Sagging). As with all Valvenergy pedals, the Smooth Impact recreates valve sounds, giving the typical natural compression of a valve

Overview of the Valvenergy Power Burst from home Vox

SMOOTH IMPACT is a real valve compressor that uses the gain variation resulting from fluctuations in the Nutube supply voltage. It marks the debut of a foot valve compressor, which offers a distinct and natural sound sensation, different from that of other types of compressors. Instead of conventional VCA, optical or FET methods, it exploits the nonlinear response of the valves, with harmonics derived solely from them, which distinguish it from clipping

By emphasizing the compression effect, it not only provides sharp tones but also allows you to obtain a compact sound with a light touch, even with settings that do not convey the nuances of compression. This makes it very effective for musicians who don't like compressors and for supporting clean, modern-style tones, tapping, and more. In addition, it is advisable to connect it to solid-state amplifiers or digital devices to incorporate the nuances of the tubes. You can choose the character with the mini switch.

• VTG (Vintage) mode: By emphasizing attack, this mode produces a classic sound with extended sustain. It is effective for creating impactful sounds.


• NAT (Natural) mode: as the name suggests, it offers a natural feeling, avoiding the feeling of 'using a compressor pedal'. It highlights shades that may be imperceptible on high strings, making it perfect for modern backing or tapping performances. Compared to Vintage mode, NAT mode operates quickly, applying compression starting from the attack and with a shorter release. This makes it effective for achieving natural sustain control, aligning sound granularity, or increasing volume without unnatural sustain control
.

• SAG (Sagging) mode: This mode replicates the lowering (SAG) that occurs when vintage tube amplifiers are played at a high volume. It offers the natural compression and distortion you get when playing a tube amplifier, making it ideal for combining with equipment such as transistor amplifiers or digital modelers to enhance the essence of a tube amplifier. The Sag, felt when playing a guitar amplifier, is a phenomenon caused by a drop in the supply voltage, which includes not only the compression but also the distortion of the power valve. In this mode, Nutube's distortion is actively used to reproduce sag through the combination of distortion
and compression.

Compressors with numerous controls can be difficult to adjust. Therefore, by selecting one of the three modes based on the situation or preferences, adjusting the Tube Gain and Comp knobs, and finally adjusting the volume with the Output knob, you can easily achieve the

TUBE GAIN: Adjust the amount of signal sent to the Nutube. By rotating, the Nutube distortion is introduced gradually.

COMP: controls the compression level. It allows you to adjust the consistency of the compression through the interaction with TUBE GAIN.

OUTPUT: Adjust the output volume.

The Valvenergy series has been welcomed as a series of pedals that offers the response of a tube amplifier, and now four new models are added to the range.

All models are equipped with next-generation Nutube tubes and include a booster (Power Burst), a valve compressor (Smooth Impact), an overdrive (Fuel Injector) and a graphic equalizer (Tone Sculptor); a complete set of effects that are a must for guitarists. The pedals are designed to take advantage of all the features of guitars, effects pedals and combined amplifiers before and after the pedal, and are simple, natural pedals that you will never get bored of

Watch the video of the Valvenergy Smooth Impact by Vox!

Newly designed buffer circuit To

exploit Nutube's full potential, a high-quality buffer was essential for the initial phase, which acts as a primary entry point of the guitar. As a result, Vox has designed a dedicated buffer circuit to meet this requirement. When the effects are turned off, the Nutube works like a bypass, providing a natural response and a feeling of lightness similar to that experienced by connecting directly to the amplifier. With the effects activated, the characteristics of the buffer are synergized with the distinctive compression of Nutube, creating a fluid and natural playing experience, with nuances

Sound-inspired engraved design

The top panel of the new chassis features an engraved design inspired by the unique sound of each effect pedal. The visual appeal of an effect pedal on a pedalboard is a crucial consideration when choosing your instruments. The organic design of the Valvenergy series is able to improve the overall aesthetics of your pedalboard with a fresh and distinctive touch

Specifications of the Vox Valvenergy Smooth Impact

Input/output terminals: INPUT terminal (mono jack), OUTPUT terminal (mono jack), DC.9V terminal.

Power supply: 9 V alkaline batteries (6LF22/6LR62) or 9 V DC AC adapter (both sold separately).