Electro-Harmonix Classics Black Finger

“The only opto-isolator photocell – dual vacuum tube compressor pedal on the market.”

 

This is how the pedal is quoted, but what does it mean in practicle terms?

The Electro Harmonix Black Finger Compressor Pedal boasts that it uses the same professional techniques that are used by the high end multi thousand dollar Studio Compressors. The big difference with these highly revered compressors however, is the cost. At under $200 the Black Finger comes in the form of a compact foot pedal.

As described, the Black Finger Is a Dual photocell opto-isolator. The design uses two types of light sources – one a lamp and the other a LED (Light emitting Diode). As such, one tube manages the compression stage, while the other handles the Gain.

So, whether you are using the Compressor with your Guitar, Bass or Vocals – or even as part of an effects loop – the Black Finger delivers the type of Wave shaping that other plug-ins or digital/analogue products simple cannot achieve – unless costing thousands of dollars of course.

Black FingerFurther to the tube design, most other tube type products use between 9 and 50 volts of swing to enable compression, whereas the Black Finger design has a full 300 volts, making this a true tube compressor in every sense.

The pedal is a mixture of compressor, Booster and Valve Preamp. It versatility makes it ideal for both Bass and Electric Guitar. The pedal is easy to overdrive and the sounds it produces are very good.

One downside however, may be the learning curve necessary to learn how to configure it properly. Some people have expressed quite negative initial comments when trying the pedal for the fisrt time. However, almost all have fallen in love with the pedal as they have mastered the controls, and would not now be without one in their Guitar Effects arsenal.

It is good to have the Tone Shaping controls to be able to create a wide range of sounds and effects, but this comes with a price of having to get to grips with the settings, compared with some of the simpler plug-in an go cheaper models. It depends on what you want – versatility of sounds, or ease of use.

For a beginner, it may be best to choose a cheaper and simpler compressor. But hey; with perseverance the Black Finger produces some awesome tones, even for the beginner.

Summary

The Electro Harmonix Black Finger produces warmth and life into any instrument that you are playing, and is great for recording too.

So, to summarise its features and performance:

  • Dual Tube Compressor Circuits
  • One tube handles Compression, the other Gain
  • Full 300 volts of swing
  • Unique varied compressions from two light sources – Lamp and LED
  • Well made sturdy construction, ideal for stage use
  • Reliable operation
  • Requires time to learn the controls to full effect
  • All you need from a tube compressor. Shapes tones and produces good sustain.
  • Skill level: Semi-pro; though with perseverance, beginners can also enjoy the great effects this pedal bangs out.
  • Nice looking finish

If you are looking to buy this pedal, check out the price comparisons below from some well known online sources. Also at the botton of the page is a Youtube Video showing the Harmonix Pedal in action.


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Electro-Harmonix Black Finger Tube Compression Pedal

 

 

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