The new J Rockett Airchild Six Sixty offers a Fairchild 660 studio compressor in a compact pedal format. It is designed to add a studio-grade sonic richness to your tone.
Airchild Six Sixty
This J Rockett Airchild Six Sixty compressor is their take on the classic Fairchild 660 studio compressor. It is a compressor renowned for its growl and richness, which it imparts to any signal that flows through it. Original units sell for large sums of money and are not practical for a pedalboard setup, making this pedal one that could be perfect for many musicians.
Studio Compression
J Rockett has designed the pedal to work like a studio compressor, not just a limiter. The control layout consists of all the essential elements users need to dial in the compression; Tone, Output, Blend, and Threshold are precisely what you need to do the job. They have made it as guitarist-friendly as possible with this simple user interface.
Tilt EQ
Key to the overall voicing is the Tone knob control as it accesses a Tilt-EQ. When turned clockwise, it offers Boost High/Cut Low. Then, if turned counterclockwise, it gives Boost Low/Cut High. Nice and simple, yet very effective.
Blend allows users to adjust the ratio of dry and compressed signals, blending them to taste and allowing users to add in enough of the original note attack as desired. It’s a super useful control and one that really lets you dial in the compressor to your playing style.
The Threshold controls the overall degree of compression and is a great way to add as much harmonic richness as required. It helps to even out any annoying transients without completely crushing the original signal.
Finally, the Output sets the overall level once the compression has worked its magic on your signal. Compressors often lower the overall output, which is used to bring that level back up to where you want it. If you’re going to enjoy the full squish of compression, keep your output level at unity or less.
Build Quality
These are all built in the USA and feature a rugged case, lovely big Fairchild-style control knobs and top-mounted jacks. They look like they are built to last, and I imagine they will handle touring with no issues.
Verdict
It will be hard for most users to compare this compressor to an original unit, as many will not have access to one. However, this looks like a solid interpretation of a Fairchild 660-style unit, and the compact pedalboard-friendly format will help it sell units. Most guitarists won’t need an overly complex compression solution, so this simple version of a studio compressor will be perfect for the job.
MSRP – GBP 239 / EUR 269
More Information
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Image Sources:
- Studio Compression in a pedal: J Rockett
- Simple Controls : J Rockett
