CM-160 Compressor
The Wholenote CM-160 Compressor is a versatile and musical pedal that deserves a spot on any guitarist's pedalboard. Unlike typical compressors that simply squash your signal, the CM-160 has a more nuanced approach that enhances your tone in captivating ways. At its core, the CM-160 is designed to "upgrade the lower signal and compress the higher signal," as the manufacturer puts it. This intelligent compression technique helps to smooth out uneven playing, tightening up your attack while preserving the natural dynamics and harmonics of your guitar. The result is a more integrated, cohesive sound that retains the organic character of your instrument. But the CM-160's party trick is its ability to "reinforce the portamento apparently" - in other words, it can accentuate the smooth, singing quality of your note transitions. This makes it a fantastic choice for expressive lead lines, as well as for coaxing out the most musical qualities of your chord voicings. Renowned guitarist Eric Clapton was said to have used the CM-160 extensively in the studio, praising its ability to add sustain and body to his tone without compromising his touch and dynamics. Whether you play clean, driven, or somewhere in between, this Wholenote compressor is a musical Swiss Army knife that deserves a closer look.
