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Average Price: $106

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$201+

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Based on price data from 3 merchants for "DOD 280 Compressor". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Meet the DOD 280 Compressor, a pedal that has earned its stripes among guitarists since its original debut in the late '70s. This classic stompbox is back with its legendary electro-optical compression circuit, revered for its ability to provide smooth, versatile compression while maintaining your guitar's natural tone. The DOD 280 Compressor is perfect for everything from the subtlety needed for clean, articulate country licks to the powerful sustain required for soaring solos.

This pedal boasts a simple yet effective two-knob design: the Comp knob lets you adjust the amount of compression, offering everything from slight volume leveling to a full-bodied squash, while the Level knob controls your overall output volume. Thanks to its true-bypass circuitry, your tone remains unaltered when the pedal is off, a notable improvement from the original. The lightweight aluminum chassis and modern 9V power supply input make it a pedalboard-friendly choice for any gigging musician.

Turn up the Comp knob and you’ll find the DOD 280 can effortlessly sustain your notes, making it a secret weapon for those who demand impeccable control over their dynamics. Whether you’re looking to tame unruly peaks or enhance your sustain, this pedal is a must-have for any serious player.

Key Features:

  • Legendary electro-optical compression circuit for smooth and natural sound
  • Two-knob design: adjustable Comp and Level controls
  • True-bypass circuitry for pristine tone when bypassed
  • Lightweight aluminum chassis with modern 9V DC power supply input
  • Pedalboard-friendly design with a blue status LED indicator

Product specs

Pedal Type Compressor
Analog/Digital Analog
Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 1 x 1/4"
True Bypass Yes
Power Source 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Batteries 1 x 9V
Height 2.25"
Width 2.63"
Depth 4.68"
Weight 0.62 lbs.

FAQs

What type of power supply does the DOD 280 Compressor require?

The DOD 280 Compressor requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately. It also operates with a 9V alkaline dry battery.

Does the DOD 280 Compressor have true bypass?

Yes, the DOD 280 Compressor features true bypass, ensuring that your signal remains unaltered when the pedal is not engaged.

Is the DOD 280 Compressor suitable for bass guitar?

While primarily designed for guitar, the DOD 280 Compressor can also be used with bass guitar to achieve smooth, consistent dynamics.

How does the DOD 280 Compressor affect my guitar tone?

The DOD 280 Compressor smooths out dynamics, enhancing sustain and ensuring consistent volume levels without altering the fundamental tone of your guitar.

What are the dimensions and weight of the DOD 280 Compressor?

The DOD 280 Compressor measures 4.68" x 2.63" x 2.25" and weighs 0.62 lbs, making it compact and lightweight for easy pedalboard integration.

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

DOD Compressor 280

Video thumbnail for DOD Compressor 280 by ProGuitarShopDemos

DOD Compressor 280

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for DOD Compressor 280 reissue (demo) by Eirik Stordrange

DOD Compressor 280 reissue (demo)

Eirik Stordrange

Eirik Stordrange

Video thumbnail for DOD: Compressor 280 by Brett Kingman

DOD: Compressor 280

Brett Kingman

Brett Kingman

Video thumbnail for DOD Compressor 280 : Better Leads, Funky Rhythms! by The Tone King

DOD Compressor 280 : Better Leads, Funky Rhythms!

The Tone King

The Tone King

Video thumbnail for DOD Compressor 280 Reissue with Charlie O’Neal by DigiTech

DOD Compressor 280 Reissue with Charlie O’Neal

DigiTech

DigiTech

Video thumbnail for DOD Compressor 280 demo by Pedals & Stuff

DOD Compressor 280 demo

Pedals & Stuff

Pedals & Stuff

Video thumbnail for DOD Compressor 280 Demo (no talking) by Get Offset

DOD Compressor 280 Demo (no talking)

Get Offset

Get Offset

Video thumbnail for DOD - Compressor 280 by Bass Stuff

DOD - Compressor 280

Bass Stuff

Bass Stuff

Video thumbnail for DOD Compressor 280 by Wall of Sound

DOD Compressor 280

Wall of Sound

Wall of Sound

Reviews

PROS

  • Simple design ideal for quick setup and easy use

  • Enhances legato and finger tapping potential effectively

  • Maintains pick attack without latency or unwanted sustain

  • Subtle compression adds depth without altering original tone

  • Pairs well with other effects like Tubescreamer and EHX Octavix

  • Compact size fits easily on practice amps

  • Sturdy build with a metal back plate

  • Operates on battery, avoiding the need for power cables

CONS

  • Battery change requires unscrewing the back plate

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about DOD 280 Compressor.

Features and functionality

  • The DOD 280 Compressor can drive the front of an amp, similar to the Universal Audio LA-3A, providing a warm, vintage-like tone.

    Source
  • DOD 280 models stamped from 2014 may not be true bypass, suggesting differences in circuit design compared to post-2014 versions.

    Source
  • The DOD 280 is noted for its ability to act as an "always on" transparent compressor, offering a natural note bloom without excessive tonal coloration.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners have used the DOD 280 with Rickenbacker 330s and Fender Blues Juniors for power pop tones and even as a primary drive source on solid state amps.

    Source
  • The DOD 280 can be effectively used after drive pedals for a more pronounced compression effect, providing a distinctive 'squash' to the sound.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users prefer the DOD 280 over traditional distortion or overdrive pedals for its unique ability to change amp tones without additional pedals.

    Source
  • Compared to the MXR Dyna Comp, the DOD 280 is less coloring, making it suitable for users seeking a versatile, transparent compression effect.

    Source

User experience

  • Fans of DOD/Digitech gear regard the DOD 280 as a must-have, often collecting other pedals from this brand's era.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Older DOD 280 models may require modding to achieve true bypass, as indicated by solder changes on the foot switch.

    Source

Critic Reviews

DOD Compressor 280 review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

With a compact design and intuitive two-knob operation, the DOD 280 Compressor offers excellent optical compression that's simple enough for beginners but nuanced enough to rival industry staples like Boss and MXR. It's priced competitively, making it an attractive option for players seeking a straightforward, always-on tone enhancer. While its minimal control might leave some desiring more options, its smooth, less-colored compression can be a game-changer for those used to harsher alternatives. Overall, it stands out for its ability to deliver clear, consistent sound without overcomplicating the process.

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