TC Electronic SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR User Manual

Introduction

Welcome to the TC Electronic SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR. This ultra-compact pedal provides studio-quality multiband compression specifically tuned for bass guitar. It features built-in TonePrint technology, allowing for extensive customization of compression settings to enhance your bass tone.

Setup

Proper setup ensures optimal performance of your SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR.

Power Connection

The SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR requires a 9V DC power supply (not included) with a minimum current rating of 100mA. Connect the power supply to the DC input jack located on the top of the pedal. This pedal does not operate on batteries.

Audio Connections

Connect your bass guitar to the INPUT jack on the right side of the pedal.
Connect the OUTPUT jack on the left side of the pedal to your amplifier or the next pedal in your signal chain.

True Bypass

The pedal features true bypass circuitry, ensuring that your instrument's tone remains unaffected when the pedal is disengaged.

TC Electronic SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR pedal, front view — **Figure 1:** Front view of the SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR pedal, showing the single control knob, footswitch, and LED indicator. This image illustrates the compact design and primary user interface elements.

Angled view of TC Electronic SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR showing input and output jacks — **Figure 2:** Angled view of the SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR, highlighting the input and output jacks on the sides, and the power input on the top. This view helps in understanding the connectivity options.

Operating

Understanding the controls and features of your pedal.

Engaging the Pedal

Press the footswitch to engage or disengage the compression effect. The LED indicator will illuminate when the pedal is active and the compression is applied to your signal.

Compression Knob

The single control knob adjusts the overall compression intensity. Turn clockwise for more compression, and counter-clockwise for less. The specific parameters controlled by this knob are determined by the loaded TonePrint, offering a wide range of sonic possibilities from subtle leveling to aggressive squash.

Close-up of the SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR's single control knob — **Figure 3:** A close-up view of the SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR's single control knob. This knob is the primary interface for adjusting the compression effect, with its function dynamically defined by the active TonePrint.

TonePrint Technology

The SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR is TonePrint enabled. This allows you to upload custom compression settings created by TC Electronic, renowned bass players, or to design your own using the TonePrint Editor software.

Using the TonePrint App

Download the free TC Electronic TonePrint app for your smartphone (available for iOS and Android).
Select a desired TonePrint from the app's library.
Hold your phone's speaker close to your bass pickup and "beam" the TonePrint to the pedal. The pedal's LED will flash to confirm successful transfer.

Person using a smartphone to beam a TonePrint to a TC Electronic pedal — **Figure 4:** Illustration of the TonePrint beaming process, where a user transfers custom settings from a smartphone to the pedal. This wireless method allows for quick and easy customization.

Figure 5: The official TonePrint logo, representing the technology that allows for deep customization of TC Electronic pedals.

Multiband Compression

The SPECTRACOMP utilizes multiband compression, which processes different frequency ranges of your bass signal independently. This results in a more natural and transparent compression, preserving your low-end while controlling dynamics across the entire frequency spectrum, leading to a more consistent and punchy sound.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your pedal, follow these maintenance guidelines:

Keep the pedal clean and dry. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning the exterior. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or harsh chemicals.
Ensure all cable connections (power and audio) are secure to prevent signal loss, intermittent operation, or unwanted noise.
When not in use for extended periods, disconnect the power supply.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

No Power

Verify the 9V DC power supply is correctly connected to the pedal and a working power outlet.
Ensure the power supply meets the 100mA minimum current requirement.
Test the power supply with another compatible device to confirm it is functioning.

No Sound

Check all audio cables (bass to input, output to amp) for proper connection and functionality. Try swapping cables if necessary.
Ensure the pedal is engaged (the LED indicator should be illuminated).
Bypass the pedal by connecting your bass directly to your amplifier to determine if the issue is with the pedal or another part of your signal chain.

Unwanted Noise

Ensure proper grounding of all equipment in your setup to minimize hum or buzz.
Check for faulty audio cables, which can introduce noise.
Some TonePrints may emphasize certain frequencies, potentially highlighting existing noise in your bass or amplifier setup. Try a different TonePrint or adjust your bass/amp settings.

TonePrint Transfer Issues

Ensure your smartphone speaker is held directly over your bass pickup during the beaming process.
Increase the volume on your smartphone to its maximum setting during transfer.
Ensure no other audio is playing on your phone and that the environment is relatively quiet.

Specifications

Feature	Detail
Item Weight	1 pounds
Product Dimensions	2.01 x 1.97 x 3.9 inches
Item Model Number	SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR
Hardware Interface	1/4-inch Audio
Signal Format	Analog
Power Source	External 9V DC (not included), 100mA minimum
Voltage	9V
True Bypass	Yes

Bottom view of the TC Electronic SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR pedal showing regulatory information — **Figure 6:** Bottom view of the SPECTRACOMP BASS COMPRESSOR, displaying various regulatory compliance markings and power requirements. This information is crucial for safe and compliant operation.

Warranty and Support

This product is covered by a manufacturer's warranty. For detailed warranty information, technical support, and service inquiries, please refer to the official TC Electronic website or contact their authorized customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

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