OTO - BOUM

The OTO BOUM is an analog stereo processor that combines dynamics processing and variable distortion/saturation in a unique way.

The French company calls their creative creation "Warming Unit", which represents a similarly unique and innovative approach among effect units as the Citroën DS did among automobiles back in the days.
Let's start where the magic happens: Entering the input stage, the signal is boosted by up to 18dB and then passes through an easy-to-use compressor (Threshold, Ratio and Make-Up Gain are controlled simultaneously with one knob), which, starting clockwise at the left stop, initially works without compression with a 1:1 ratio, which then smoothly transitions to the ranges of a 5:1 to 10:1 ratio and, at the 12 o'clock position, works as a limiter (∞:1 ratio). Beyond that, BOUM masters what's called overcompression (dubbed "upward expansion" by mastering legend Bob Katz). This means that the compressor initially works at a ratio of 1:-0.3, ending up at a 1:-1 ratio via 1:-0.6 in the right-hand stop. For example, if this ratio is applied to a signal to be compressed that is 10dB above the threshold, the output signal will be 10dB quieter than a signal at the threshold. This can be used (especially in conjunction with the sidechain input) for creative dynamics effects. The sound then passes through a 6dB low-cut filter before reaching the distortion/saturation stage, which allows you to boost the signal by up to 55dB (!) using the Drive control and then attenuate it via a downstream, musical 12dB filter (Hi-Cut). The circuits for distortion range from Boost (soft clipping), Tube (asymmetrical tube distortion), Fuzz (hard, symmetrical clipping) to Square (nasty, nasty, nasty). A downstream gate allows noise reduction as well as (sometimes violent) chopping effects, which can also be used for creative purposes.
With six dedicated knobs and eight push buttons, BOUM allows deep exploarations of its sonic diversity, ranging from subtle saturation for glue or mastering purposes to absolutely violent hardware distortion. Its lively nature can enhance individual signals, (drum-) buses of any kind and stereo signals, make them more detailed or, if necessary, pulverize them mercilessly. The MIDI-in equipped unit allows MIDI control (CC/Program Change/Note) for all parameters; twelve presets guarantee instant inspiration, which you can store in 36 program memory locations.
The handy device (<1 KG), housed in a rugged and road-ready steel case, has a permanent spot in the live setups of artists like Ela Minus, Karenn and Surgeon. 

Features:

• Analog stereo processor with analog signal path and input gain boost of up to 18dB.
• "One-Knob" compressor with overcompression functionality
• Five attack (50 μs - 33 ms) or six release (50 ms - 1 s) settings
• 6 dB low-cut filter (flat, 75 Hz, 150 Hz, 300 Hz)
• 4 different distortion/saturation circuits: boost, tube, fuzz, square
• Variable 12dB high cut filter
• 12 presets and 36 preset memory locations
• MIDI input (controllable via CC, program change and note)
• Sidechain input to control compressor or gate
• Robust steel case
• Dimensions: 145 x 145 x 65 mm
• Power supply included (+15V DC, positive inside)