Tsakalis ZIPPER MKII
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- This item is covered for 3 years
Essential Information About the TSAKALIS Zipper MKII Pedal
Essential Information About the TSAKALIS Zipper MKII Pedal
- Discrete, silent optical compressor with high headroom to preserve the character of your guitar.
- Two selectable ratios: Soft 4:1 for musical compression, Hard 10:1 for a more pronounced and punchy effect.
- Attack and release auto-adjusted via the hand-selected optical element.
- "Clean boost"/maximizer function with compression set around 9 o'clock, ideal for pushing an amp or evening out a set.
Manufacturer Information
Tsakalis
https://www.tsakalisaudioworks.com
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Studio Sound in a Compact Format
Inspired by the aesthetics of major studio optical compressors, the Zipper MKII condenses this musicality into a pedalboard chassis. A modernized version of the Zipper model, it prioritizes simplicity: few controls, but an organic and consistent response reminiscent of legendary outboards, without the complexity of multiple settings.For Whom and Which Styles?
Perfect for guitarists from beginner to advanced levels seeking natural sustain and controlled attack. In clean mode, it adds "snap" for funk, pop, and country/chicken picking; in crunch/drive, it thickens the mids for blues or rock. Its transparency makes it an excellent tool both in the studio and live, at the front of your pedalboard chain.Guitar-Oriented Controls and Ergonomics
Two controls suffice: LEVEL for output volume and COMPRESS for threshold/amount of compression. A mini-toggle switch switches between Soft 4:1 and Hard 10:1 ratios. The optocoupler automatically manages Attack and Release based on your playing, for an immediate analog feel. True Bypass, robust enclosure, 6.35 mm jack in/out, standard 9 V DC power supply: everything is designed for simple and reliable integration.Sound Characteristics
The Zipper MKII colors little: the bass remains tight, the mids gain cohesion, and the highs retain their brilliance without harshness. At low settings, it smooths transients and provides a "bigger" sensation without crushing the attack. At higher settings, the sound becomes percussive and very responsive to pick playing: perfect for precise arpeggios, funky rhythms, or leads that hold notes elegantly.Technical specifications
| Effects | Compressor / Sustainer | Type | sector |
| Technology | Analog | Use | electric guitar |
| Format | Pedal | Color | Brown |
| Potentiometers | LEVEL, COMPRESS | Required voltage | regulated 9 V DC (center negative) |
| Toggle switch | Soft 4:1 / Hard 10:1 ratios | Consumption | not specified by the manufacturer |
| Power supply | not included | ||
Questions frequently asked
What compression settings does the Tsakalis ZIPPER MKII offer?
Two knobs control the output level (LEVEL) and the amount of compression (COMPRESS). A mini-switch selects a Soft ratio of 4:1 or a Hard ratio of 10:1. Attack and Release are automatically managed by the optocoupler.
Is this compression pedal suitable for funk and chicken picking?
The Soft 4:1 ratio and moderate compression preserve the attack while adding snap to clean tones. This setup is well-suited for funk, pop, and country/chicken picking rhythms.
What sound is achieved with the Hard 10:1 mode?
With the Hard 10:1 ratio, compression becomes more pronounced and percussive. Arpeggios gain precision, while sustained notes benefit from increased sustain.
What power supply is required for this pedal?
A regulated 9 V DC power supply with center negative polarity is required. The power supply is not included, and the current consumption is not specified by the manufacturer.
Where should this compressor be placed in a guitar effects chain?
The format with 6.35 mm jack inputs and outputs allows easy integration at the front of a pedalboard. True Bypass prevents the signal from passing through the circuit when the effect is off.



