Nordland ODR-C Custom Overdrive

Owner's Manual

Introduction

Moin, Moin! Congratulations on purchasing the Nordland ODR-C Custom Overdrive effect device. This pedal is primarily handmade, features high-quality, selected components, and has been personally tested and measured. It is delivered only when it meets strict quality requirements. This manual provides detailed guidance and technical background to explain its functions. The latest version is always available on the Nordland website: nordland-electronics.com.

Development

The ODR-C is based on the successful ODR-1 development from the early 1990s, aiming for a natural guitar sound with minimal alteration. While the original ODR-1 was well-regarded, it was manufactured in the Far East using less premium components. The ODR-C is a rebuild of this favorite overdrive, released in a small series with high-quality components. It retains the core sound of the ODR-1 while introducing several new features and quality improvements.

New Functions

A small O.D.C. knob to reduce overdrive compression, making the sound more dynamic and open.
A small Lo-Cut knob to control low frequencies (bass) in the signal.
A large Mid knob to control midrange frequencies.

Improvements

Components can handle up to 18 volts; the sound changes between 9V and 18V.
Reverse polarity protection safeguards the electronics.
True Bypass Footswitch ensures no signal loss when the effect is off.
Soft-click footswitch for a more comfortable operation.
Use of high-quality materials: Stable Hammond MFG (Canada) aluminum body, gold-plated Cliff jacks (England), gold-plated PCB connectors, ENIG/gold plated PCB pads, 1% metal film resistors, and ±2%-5% film capacitors for optimal audio quality.
Soft LED with fade-in/out brightness to minimize switching clicks.
LED brightness is controllable via an internal small knob-potentiometer.

Operation

Velcro or Rubber Feet

Velcro pads and rubber feet are included. Attach them according to your application needs. Note: Keep screws accessible for internal access.

Connection to a DC Power Supply

Connect a standard, hum-free, electronically stabilized power supply to the DC-socket [3]. The voltage should be between 9V and 18V. The device requires 15mA to 25mA, so the power supply should deliver at least 50mA. The inner pole of the socket (5.5mm / 2.1mm) is ground, and the outer ring is positive (+). While reverse polarity protection is included, it's best to avoid incorrect polarity to prevent potential damage to the power supply unit if other devices are connected.

Connection to a 9V Battery

After removing the bottom plate [4] (secured by 4 Phillips screws), a 9V battery can be connected and placed inside. For environmental reasons, Nordland strongly advises against using batteries.

Connection

Connect your instrument or another effect device to the input jack [1] using a 1/4" (6.3mm) mono jack cable. Note: Using a stereo cable may prevent the unit from turning on unless the ring contact is grounded. Connect the output jack [2] to your amplifier or next effect pedal.

Effect On/Off

The true bypass footswitch [6] turns the effect on or off. The LED [5] illuminates when the effect is active. The signal path is direct from input to output when bypassed. A 1MΩ resistor is used to divert DC offset voltages and reduce switching noise. Before powering on, set the volume control [7] to a low level to prevent potential hearing or equipment damage. Note: Minor switching clicks may occur, especially when first connecting power. These usually stabilize after a short period. Persistent crackling might be due to DC offset from other connected devices.

Control Descriptions

Level [7]

Adjusts the output volume of the ODR-C.

Drive [8]

Sets the amount of overdrive, ranging from clean to heavily overdriven. This control also affects the overall volume. Adjust the Level [7] control as needed. The overdrive circuit compresses the signal, providing longer sustain and rich harmonics.

Spectrum [9]

This unique active EQ control adjusts treble and bass frequencies around 1kHz and 300Hz respectively, offering more tonal shaping than typical tone controls.

Orange: Center position, providing the normal sound.
Gray: Turning right raises treble and bass frequencies.
Green: Turning left lowers treble and bass frequencies.

This control helps achieve well-playable sounds across various settings by focusing on the mid-range (600Hz to 1kHz).

O.D.C. / Overdrive-De-Compress [11]

This mini-knob reduces the compression from the overdrive stage, resulting in a more dynamic and open sound with amplified center frequencies. The effect is subtle and more noticeable with higher Drive settings.

Note: Setting O.D.C. and Lo-Cut to their left positions, and Mid to its center position, recreates the original ODR-1 sound.

Lo-Cut [12]

This control removes very low frequencies (bass). Reducing bass can affect the perceived overdrive level.

Blue: Left position.
Red: Middle position.
Orange: Right position.

Turning the knob to the right intentionally decreases bass. Bonus: Turning this control fully right (orange) can increase overdrive at the 3 o'clock Drive position to compensate for reduced distortion.

Mid [10]

This control allows you to boost (blue) or cut (violet) mid-frequencies. This can enhance presence, especially for solo playing, and integrate better into a band mix. The frequency and bandwidth are optimized for guitar but may overlap with the Spectrum control, requiring minor adjustments. The middle position (orange) provides the ODR-1 sound.

LED Brightness

The LED [13] brightness is set to a medium level by default but can be adjusted internally to your preference.

Sound Examples

The following settings are examples and may vary depending on your guitar, amplifier, and other equipment:

Low Gain Drive: Controls set for a clean boost with subtle overdrive.
Light Overdrive / Blues: Moderate Drive and Level for classic blues tones.
Medium Overdrive: Higher Drive settings for a richer, more saturated overdrive.
Blues Solo / Overdrive: Settings optimized for lead guitar, with emphasis on sustain and clarity.
Heavy Dynamic Rhythm: Settings for powerful rhythm playing with good note definition.
Heavy Compressed Solo: Maximum compression and sustain for lead guitar solos.

Technical Data

Input Impedance: ~1 MΩ
Output Impedance: ~1 kΩ
Power Supply (9V Battery):
- Dry battery 6F22 (9V Type, Carbon)
- Dry battery 6LR61 (9V Type, Alkaline-Manganese)
Battery Life (continuous operation):
- Carbon: approx. 20 hours (with 300mAh battery)
- Alkaline manganese: approx. 33 hours (with 500mAh battery)
* This information depends on the battery and ambient conditions.
DC Power Supply: 9V to 18V (electronically stabilized)
Power Consumption: approx. 15mA at 9V, approx. 25mA at 18V
Dimensions: 125 (L) x 66 (W) x 58 (H) mm
Weight: approx. 380 g (without battery)

Important Notes / Safety Instructions

DC voltages above 20V can damage the ODR-C.
Do not use the ODR-C in humid, dusty, dirty, or hot environments.
Liquids can damage the device.
Do not use harsh detergents. Clean with a soft cloth if necessary.
Batteries: Improper handling can cause explosion or leakage. Always follow safety instructions. A dimming LED indicates low battery. Disconnect all cables (input, DC, output) before changing the battery. Inserting a mono jack plug into the input socket activates the device; remember to pull out the plug when not in use (especially with battery power).

Changes Reserved

This manual describes the specifications and details as published. For the most current version, please visit the Nordland website: https://nordland-electronics.de/en/products/download-en.html.