Maxon RTC600 Real Tube II Compressor

The RTC600 is a studio-grade Tube Compressor Preamp in a compact Stompbox format. The RTC600 uses a precision RMS level Detection circuit and high-performance VCA to create a warm yet bold compression sound with ultra-low noise floor. Its five controls can create a wide variety of effects, including “Brick Wall” limiting and “Soft Knee” compression. Every aspect of the RTC600 has been re-thought and redesigned to provide a lifetime of trouble-free performance. The tube position comes pre-compression, adding classic valve warmth without increasing the noise level. As soon as power is applied to the pedal, an In-Rush Current control begins heating the tube at a very low voltage (much like a tube amp standby switch) to dramatically extend tube life. The RTC600 features an internal charge pump circuit that bumps the incoming voltage up to 25 volts, providing massive headroom and full-range frequency response. The RTC600 is perfect for use with any instrument or application and can be sent into an amp’s front end, placed in an effects loop, or used as an outboard processor for home recordings.

TECH TALK:

The RTC600 features a completely new and improved circuit from its predecessor, the RCP660.

5 controls adjust the compression effect –

Threshold: Variable, 0dB to -40dB
Output gain: Variable, 0dB to 30dB
Compression Ratio: 1:1 to 1:Infinity
Attack time (for 20dB gain increase): Variable, 20mSec to 600mSec
Release time (for 20dB gain decrease): Variable, 140mSec to 700msec

A Gain reduction LED lights when the reduction is 4dB or more.

The RTC features an In-Rush Current Control system - As soon as power is applied to the pedal, a small current is applied to the tube and begins heating it at a very low voltage (much like a tube amp standby switch).  This system dramatically extends the tube life.  Once the pedal is engaged, 12.6 VDC is applied to the tube heater.

The RTC600 features mechanical true bypass switching via a Fujisoku 4PDT switch.

NOTE ON POWERING THE RTC600 - this pedal’s voltage regulator IC requires a high inrush current of approximately 2000 mA upon startup.  When using with a Power Brick such as the Voodoo Labs Pedal Power 2+, this pedal should be connected to a high current power jack when possible.

Input Impedance: 500K Ohms

Output Impedance: 10K Ohms

Output Jack: 1/4 inch standard phone jack

Max Output Level: +20dBu (at 1 kHz)

Residual Noise: -94dBu or less (Input shorted, IHF-A weighted)

T.H.D. +N: 0.02% or less (at 1 kHz, -10dBu output)

Controls:
THRESHOLD 0dBu to -40dBu
RATIO 1:1 to infinity: 1
GAIN 0dB to +30dB
ATTACK (for 20dB gain decrease) 20mSec to 600mSec
RELEASE (for 20dB gain increase) 140mSec to 700mSecSwitch: BYPASS/EFFECT (Mechanical True Bypass using 3PDT switch)I/O: INPUT JACK, OUTPUT JACK, DC INPUT JACK

Indicator: BYPASS/EFFECT LED REDUCTION LED (When REDUCTION LED lights, compression is more than 4dB.)

Internal Circuit Voltage: 25 VDC (±12.5V) (DC to DC Converter)

Power Consumption: 240mA/9VDC

Dimensions: 121 (W) × 152(D) × 60 (H) mm / 4.8” (W) x 6” (D) x 2.4” (H)

Weight: Approx. 580g / 1.3 Lbs. (without AC adaptor)

Power Supply: AC adaptor AC2009 - NOT INCLUDED

Accessory: AC adaptor AC2009* 0dBu=0.775Vrm
* All specifications are subject to change for improvement without notice or obligation.All brand names and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.