Hamstead Zenith Amplitude Controller

Hamstead Zenith Amplitude Controller is a powerful EQ, Boost, and Compressor delivered in one compact and incredibly flexible package. From subtle tone shaping and compression that is felt and not heard, through to extreme sound sculpting and sustain beyond the natural realm, Zenith’s three circuits cover it all.

Treble, Middle and Bass controls are nothing new to guitar effects, but with Zenith we have endeavoured to voice these parameters to not only sound but feel natural to use. Boosted high frequencies are present but not harsh; boosted lows remain tight while adding warmth, and the Middle control offers a huge amount of flexibility with its three-position ‘Q’ and Frequency switches.

Compression is an often misunderstood and potentially complex effect in guitar culture. This compression circuit has a very fast attack and medium/long release and is designed to work with any setup and remain very transparent. The feel of the compression can also be dialled in with the Blend control, allowing natural pick attack but also hugely increased sustain.

This pedal features ‘Secret Switching’ for independent control of the EQ and Compression circuits. By holding down the OptoKick, the pedal enters the programming mode with 5 switching options; Standard (both on, both off), Flip/Flop, Comp always on, EQ always on, and Cycle. For example: Zenith can be used as an always on EQ with compression engaged via the switch, or used to Flip/Flop between the two effects.

With its balance of EQ and Compression Zenith is the perfect FX loop attenuator. By running Zenith in the FX loop, you can first bring down the volume with the Level control without affecting preamp gain. Adjusting the EQ then brings back your original tone, and by adding a touch of compression the feel of tube sag returns with musical bloom.

Hamstead Zenith demo video