A Germanium-Enhanced Take on Keeley's Classic Compressor

To celebrate its 25th anniversary, Keeley Electronics introduces the Compressor Plus Germanium, a new interpretation of one of the company's most celebrated designs. Building on the familiar four-knob Compressor Plus, this version incorporates a germanium transistor into both the audio output stage and the compressor's side-chain feedback circuit, bringing a new tonal character and dynamic response to Keeley's signature compression.

The germanium circuitry adds warmth and smoothness to the compressed signal, with softer high frequencies, natural sustain, and a responsive feel that follows the nuances of your playing. Keeley has carefully integrated the transistor to retain clarity and headroom while avoiding the additional noise often associated with germanium designs. The result is a compressor that can gently even out your dynamics or deliver rich, blooming sustain without sacrificing the natural character of your instrument.

The familiar four-knob layout provides straightforward control over the effect. Compression adjusts the amount of compression and sustain, Level sets the overall output volume, and Tone shapes the high-frequency response. The Blend control allows you to mix your original dry signal with the compressed signal, preserving pick attack and articulation while adding sustain and consistency. A dedicated recovery speed switch offers settings optimized for single-coil and humbucker pickups.

The Compressor Plus Germanium also features selectable True Bypass and Buffered Bypass operation, allowing players to choose the switching configuration that best suits their pedalboard. With support for 9V to 18V DC power and a low current draw, it integrates easily into a wide variety of setups.

Designed and built in Oklahoma, USA, the Keeley Compressor Plus Germanium celebrates 25 years of compressor design while introducing a distinctive new voice to one of Keeley's most enduring pedals.

Keeley Compressor Plus Germanium Features

• 25th anniversary edition of Keeley's popular Compressor Plus

• Germanium transistor incorporated into the audio output stage and side-chain feedback circuit

• Warm, smooth compression with natural sustain and touch-sensitive response

• Four controls: Level, Tone, Compression, and Blend

• Blend control mixes dry and compressed signals to preserve attack and clarity

• Recovery speed switch with settings for single-coil and humbucker pickups

• Selectable True Bypass or Buffered Bypass operation

• Power: 9-18V DC (50mA)