Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $214
High-end/Boutique
$50
$201+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "ThorpyFX The FAT GENERAL Parallel Compressor MKI". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 19, 2026.
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Description
Unleash the full potential of your sound with the ThorpyFX The FAT GENERAL Parallel Compressor. This meticulously crafted pedal is a refinement of the renowned OTC-201 compressor, offering unparalleled versatility and tonal control for guitarists seeking that perfect blend of compression and clarity. With its ergonomic design and compact size, it's an ideal addition to any pedalboard without compromising valuable space.
The FAT GENERAL is equipped with two switchable modes: Juicy and Blend, allowing you to seamlessly transition between lush, full-bodied compression and a more subtle, nuanced effect. The intuitive controls—Treble, Sustain, and Balance—provide precise shaping of your tone, while the mix knob adjusts the ratio of compressed to unprocessed signal, ranging from 90/10 to 50/50.
Built to withstand the rigors of live performance, this pedal features a robust footswitch for easy effect bypass and an LED indicator to keep you aware of your signal's status. Power options include a 9 V battery or a DC power supply, ensuring you're always ready to rock.
Key Features:
- Refinement of the OTC-201 compressor
- Two switchable modes: Juicy and Blend
- Mix control for compressed/unprocessed signal ratio (90/10 to 50/50)
- Controls: Treble, Sustain, Balance
- Footswitch for effect bypass with LED indicator
- Input and Output: 6.3 mm jacks
- Power supply via 9 V battery or 9 V DC (adapter not included)
- True bypass
- Compact and durable design
Product specs
| Available since | April 2019 |
FAQs
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What is the primary function of the ThorpyFX The FAT GENERAL Parallel Compressor?
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The ThorpyFX The FAT GENERAL Parallel Compressor is designed to provide smooth, transparent compression for guitarists, enhancing sustain and dynamics without altering the original tone.
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How does the parallel compression feature work in the ThorpyFX Fat General?
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The parallel compression feature allows you to blend your dry signal with the compressed signal, giving you more control over the compression effect and maintaining the natural dynamics of your playing.
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Can the ThorpyFX The FAT GENERAL Parallel Compressor be powered by a battery?
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No, the ThorpyFX The FAT GENERAL Parallel Compressor requires a 9V power supply and does not support battery operation.
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Is the ThorpyFX The FAT GENERAL suitable for both electric and bass guitars?
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Yes, the ThorpyFX The FAT GENERAL Parallel Compressor is versatile enough to be used with both electric and bass guitars, offering smooth compression for a variety of musical styles.
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What are the key controls on the ThorpyFX The FAT GENERAL Parallel Compressor?
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The ThorpyFX The FAT GENERAL features controls for blend, sustain, and treble, allowing you to fine-tune the compression effect and tailor it to your specific needs.
Videos
AndyDemos
ThorpyFx Fat General Parallel Compressor
Reviews
PROS
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Transparent compression enhances clean tone without losing signal character
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Blend switch functionality allows for easy wet/dry mix adjustments
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Solid build with strong knobs and durable clicky button
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Sustain knob effectively prolongs note duration
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Treble control for fine-tuning high frequencies
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Noise reduction is significantly better than many competitors
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Versatile with both blend and juicy modes for different sound dynamics
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Protects knobs from accidental adjustments with its design
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Makes the signal sound fresher, similar to a buffer effect
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Boosts distortion for a fuller sound without unpleasant sustain
CONS
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Blend mode increases overall volume, limiting its usefulness
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Hard to read labeling on the pedal under certain conditions
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Mix becomes quieter when switching to juicy mode, affecting versatility
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ThorpyFX The FAT GENERAL Parallel Compressor MKI.
Comparisons
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The ThorpyFX Fat General retains lower mids better than the Cali76 Compact Deluxe, making it more suitable for psychedelic post-punk over country or pop.
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Users highlight Wampler and Keeley compressors as alternatives, but note that The Fat General surpasses them in delivering a noise-free, studio-grade sound.
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User experience
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Owners appreciate its ability to be an "always-on" pedal, preserving clean tones while adding compression, a rare feature compared to other compressors.
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Features and functionality
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Despite high compression settings, the Fat General maintains usability, differentiating it from other compressors that may distort the original tone.
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The pedal offers a dynamic range from clean and transparent to squishy, spanky tones, ideal for country and funk, while maintaining nearly zero noise.
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Build quality
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Built to military-grade specifications, the Fat General is noted for its robust design, despite some aesthetic preferences against its yellow color.
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Value and pricing
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V1 models are available for less than $200 on Reverb, offering competitive pricing against other boutique compressors like the Cali76.
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A significant price drop ($100 off) can be found for mint-condition units, making it a more accessible option for those hesitant about the original $300 price.
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Critic Reviews
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