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Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost

Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost main image

Photo of Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost and more gear in a studio, guitar, and synths

Photo of Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost and more gear in a pedalboard, guitar, and signal chain

Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost

^# 24

Equipboard's ranking is determined by analyzing factors such as professional artist usage, popularity, user ratings, reviews, and more.

$256.62 Price Tier: Standard

5.0 (16)

1 Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Find out who is using Strymon OB.1

5 community setups

10 wishlisted

38 saved

Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

5.0 (32)

$256.62 6 available New

$199.00 7 available Used

View Deal

Average Price: $228

Standard/Professional

$150

$601+

Price Tier

In the Multi Effects Pedals category, Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

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Introducing the Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor and Clean Boost Pedal, your secret weapon for achieving studio-grade compression in a compact, pedalboard-friendly design. Don't let its small size fool you, this vibrant orange marvel is a powerhouse of functionality. It offers a blend of compression, clean boost, and treble/mid boost, granting you the flexibility to subtly tweak or aggressively shape your sound. Whether you're a pedal newbie or an experienced tone chaser, the OB.1 stands as a robust starting point in your signal chain.

Key Features:

Studio optical compression in a compact design
Powerful clean boost and treble/mid boost
Ideal as a first pedal in the signal chain
Compact size, perfect for any pedalboard
Vibrant orange finish adds a bold touch to your setup

Product specs

Brand	Strymon
Model	OB.1
Finish	Orange
Year	2010s
Made In	United States
Categories	Compressor Pedals, Overdrive and Boost Pedals

FAQs

What type of guitar is the Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost suitable for?: The Strymon OB.1 is suitable for both electric and acoustic guitars, offering versatile compression and clean boost capabilities to enhance your guitar's natural tone.
Does the Strymon OB.1 require a specific power supply?: The Strymon OB.1 requires a standard 9V center-negative power supply, commonly used with most guitar pedals.
Can the Strymon OB.1 be used for both compression and boosting simultaneously?: Yes, the Strymon OB.1 offers both compression and clean boost functions, allowing you to use them independently or together for a more dynamic sound.
How does the optical compression in the Strymon OB.1 affect my guitar tone?: The optical compression in the Strymon OB.1 provides smooth, transparent compression that enhances sustain without coloring your guitar's natural tone.
Is the Strymon OB.1 suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Strymon OB.1 is designed for both studio and live performance settings, offering reliable and consistent performance with its robust build and high-quality components.

Videos

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Karl Verkade

Strymon OB.1 Compressor & Clean Boost Demo

Karl Verkade

Strymon OB.1 | Product Demo

Big Music Australia

Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor | Reverb Demo Video

Reverb

【試奏動画】strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost unit ギターエフェクター

chuyaonline

Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor Video Test

Musicoff - Where Music Matters

Strymon OB.1 | Male Vocal Demo | Optical Compressor

Audio Equipment Talk

Strymon OB 1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost | Demo

low level.

Reviews

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PROS

Simple to use interface enhances playability
Offers clean, natural optical compression for clarity
Includes a clean boost with variable EQ options
Features low noise level, even with EQ active
Provides sparkling sound enhancement without added noise
Three different frequency boost shapes via toggle switch
DIP switch inside for customizable treble and mid boosts
Versatile for both bass and guitar use
Unique one-knob compression design simplifies control

CONS

Boost cannot be used without the compression engaged
Confusing footswitch labeling and function
Limited in achieving very percussive compression effects
Discontinued, making it harder to find

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Strymon OB.1 Optical Compressor & Clean Boost.

Features and functionality

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The OB.1 compressor is praised for its transparency, effectively evening out volumes without altering tone, making it suitable for both chords and single-note lines.
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The OB.1 lacks attack control, which some users find necessary for achieving super squeezed compression sounds.
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Use cases and applications

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The pedal is appreciated for its versatility, working well in both metal and ambient music settings, showcasing its adaptability across genres.
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The OB.1's boost function is noted for adding tonal color by boosting specific frequencies, which can be desirable for those looking to alter their sound.
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The OB.1 is excellent for acoustic guitars and works well in a studio mode placed later in the signal chain.
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User experience

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Owners frequently use the OB.1 as an "always on" pedal, highlighting its reliability and integral role in their sound setup.
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Some owners consider adding budget compressors like the Dyna Comp or EHX Soul Food to complement the OB.1 for more squeezed compression sounds.
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Comparisons

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The OB.1 offers more tonal options compared to the Diamond compressor, though some users feel the compressor isn't as impressive as standalone alternatives like the Empress.
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The Orange Kongpressor, another optical compressor, offers adjustable settings that can achieve both twangy country tones and endless clean sustain without a blend knob.
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The API CMP is recommended as an alternative, with notable use by guitarist Tom Bukovac, indicating its potential professional application.
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