Owner's Manual for VOX Smooth Impact Effect Pedal

Quick guide for the VOX Smooth Impact tube compressor pedal. Learn about Nutube technology, display modes, battery installation, setup instructions, and technical specifications.

Table of contents

Quick guide from the manual

The VOX Smooth Impact is a true vacuum tube-type compressor pedal utilizing Nutube technology. It features an oscilloscope display, three distinct compression modes, and a link function for connecting multiple pedals. Please note that if a strong impact is applied to the unit, noise at the high-frequency range may be output; this is due to the Nutube structure and is not a malfunction.

Part names and functions

IN (INPUT) jack: Connects your guitar cable. This jack also acts as the power switch; unplug when not in use.
OUT (OUTPUT) jack: Connects to your guitar amp or other devices.
Effect switch: Toggles between effect sound (indicator lit) and bypass sound (indicator unlit).
Display: Shows waveform characteristics via the oscilloscope function.
COMP knob: Adjusts the amount of compression.
TUBE GAIN knob: Adjusts the signal level sent to the Nutube, adding distortion.
Mode switch: Selects between VTG (Vintage), NAT (Natural), and SAG (Sagging) modes.
OUTPUT knob: Adjusts the overall output volume.
LINK jack: Connects to other VOX pedals with a 3.5 mm mini-phone cable for simple switching.
DC 9V jack: For connecting an optional AC adapter.

Display modes

The unit features an oscilloscope function. To enter SELECT DISPLAY mode, turn the unit off, hold the effect switch, and insert a plug into the INPUT jack to power on. Once the indicator lights up, release the switch. You can choose from three modes:

DISP OFF: Turns the display off.
MODE1: Shows the amount of gain reduction.
MODE2: Shows the waveform as a series of bars.

To save a mode for future power-ups, long-press the effect switch on the desired mode screen.

Installing the battery

Open the battery cover on the bottom of the unit.
Attach the battery to the clip, ensuring correct polarity.
Install the battery and close the cover.

When the battery is low, the display shows "LOW BATT". Replace it immediately. If the battery is completely depleted, the display will go dark and no sound will be output.

Setup

Set the OUTPUT knob to the minimum level.
Connect your instrument to the INPUT jack.
Connect the OUTPUT jack to your amplifier or other equipment.
Turn on the externally connected equipment.
Press the effect switch and use the OUTPUT knob to adjust the volume.
Use the knobs and switches to adjust the tone.

Specifications

Input impedance: 1 MΩ
Power supply: 9 V alkaline battery (6LF22/6LR61) or AC adapter (9 V, 600 mA or greater, sold separately).
Battery life: Approximately 3.5 hours (continuous use).
Current consumption: Approximately 75 mA (DC 9 V).
Dimensions: 72 × 120 × 55 mm.
Weight: 300 g (including battery).

Practical help

Common problems

High-frequency noise output

This is normal if a strong impact is applied to the unit due to the Nutube structure; it is not a malfunction.

Display shows 'LOW BATT'

The battery is running low. Replace it with a new 9 V alkaline battery as soon as possible.

Display is dark and no sound output

The battery is completely depleted. Replace the battery or use an AC adapter.

Before use

Set the OUTPUT knob to the minimum level before connecting.
Turn off all connected equipment before making connections.
Ensure the battery polarity is correct when installing.
Use a 9 V alkaline battery (6LF22/6LR61) or a compatible AC adapter.
Do not use cables with built-in resistors.

Specs in practice

Input impedance: 1 MΩ; ensures compatibility with standard guitar pickups.
Battery life: Approximately 3.5 hours of continuous use with an alkaline battery.
Power requirements: 9 V DC, 600 mA or greater. Using the wrong adapter may cause malfunctions.

Images and diagrams

The LINK jack allows connection of up to five VOX pedals.
Use a standard 3.5 mm mini-phone cable for the LINK function.
Do not use a splitter cable that divides stereo into L and R channels.

Model compatibility

Compatible with other VOX pedals featuring a LINK jack.
Requires 9 V DC, 600 mA or greater power supply.
Not compatible with splitter cables that divide stereo signals.

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Manual page author

Michael Turner

Technical manual editor

Reviews PDF manuals for structure, safety notes, and practical product details so readers can find the right information quickly.