With this in mind, Maxon created the RCP660 Real Compressor. Powered by a hand-selected 12AY7EH preamp tube, The RCP660 takes the amazing tube tone of studio rack gear and packs it into a compact, floor mounted stompbox that can be used virtually anywhere for any audio application.

The RCP660's controls are deceptively simple to use, yet they offer an incredible array of compressed tones. Master controls the output volume, and can add up to 10 dB of clean boost to the input signal. Sensitivity determines the input level at which the compression is activated  keep it set low for use as a Limiter or crank it for constant, consistent compression. Attack and Sustain knobs control the degree of compression and intensity, allowing for everything from a subtle pinch to extreme squash.

The RCP660 also features a Footswitchable Boost function, allowing for quick changes between solo and rhythm playing or the ability to use the unit as a clean Booster in front of your amp. The Boost function adds a full 13 dB of Gain to the signal, more than enough to jump out in front of a full-band mix or drive the input of any amplifier into sweet, singing, saturation.

While the RCP660 is great for live use, it really shines when used for recording. When used on a direct input to a hard disk recorder, the RCP660 can add warmth, detail and a three-dimensional quality to steel or nylon string acoustics that simply must be heard to be believed. Bass Guitars will also benefit from the RCP660, which works perfectly to rein in the low frequencies in that annoying "woofy" range without losing the desired punch and power needed to make a great recording.

When your playing or recording demands the sound of classic tube compression, the RCP660 Real Compressor is the only real choice.