Model Description:
MXR Innovations was founded in 1972, based in Rochester, New York, USA by Keith Barr and Terry Sherwood. While the iconic Phase 90 deservedly holds top spot in the MXR ranks, the Distortion + and the Dyna Comp (MX‑102) compressor pedals also became very highly regarded. The key to MXR’s success was a combination of sublime ‘natural’ sounds and ϋber simple controls. The modus operandum of a compact compressor pedal like this is to smooth out the signal by limiting the peaks and boosting the troughs of a dynamic signal to give it a more a studio‑like sound. The dark red and diminutive Dyna Comp came in several guises, the first being the rare ‘script’ logo version. Around 1976/1977, the superficial design was changed to the more common ‘block’ logo. By 1981/1982, MXR had added ergonomic features including an LED status light and 9V DC PSU input. The original MXR Innovations company ceased operations in 1984. Music entrepreneur Jim Dunlop acquired the rights to the brand in 1987 and proceeded to reissue many of the iconic pedals as well as some newer models for a new generation of players. The Dyna Comp was one of those models that was reissued. Vintage originals are relatively easy to come by and remain accessible price‑wise. MXR pedals remain in production and enduringly popular with musicians to this day.
Pedal Description:
This 1980 MXR Dyna Comp is all‑original and in great condition for its age and this example comes complete with its original box (with matching serial number), instruction manual, warranty card, MXR sticker and knob cover. Approximating the age of vintage MXR effects is relatively straightforward according to the features. The pot codes date this pedal to 1980. This example is in superb almost‑new condition, just like it would have been coming out of the New York factory. The Dyna Comp is one of those subtle effects that you get so used to using that it sounds ‘normal’ until you switch it off and you realise the impact that the compression has. In operation, it is just about as simple as you can get – the ‘Sensitivity’ control providing the key to getting the smooth tone you need. Its delicate ability to sustain and smooth out clean sounds is its strong point, especially when used with a modest boost through a vintage valve amp. It doesn’t slap you across the face like some effects. The compression does, however, add a lovely ‘produced’ sheen to your playing style. That’s it, one fantastic little vintage gem of a classic stomp box. Very cool.
Features:
- Made in Rochester, New York, U.S.A. in 1980
- The ‘Output’ knob controls the output volume of the compressed signal
- The ‘Sensitivity’ knob controls the speed of the reaction to the incoming signal and the amount of sustain added to the original signal
- Standard footswitch turns the effect on and off
- Standard ¼” input and output mono jack sockets
- 2nd generation ‘block’ MXR logo
- No status LED or DC power supply input
- Original baseplate with non‑slip foam and screws
- Original box, instruction manual, warranty card, MXR sticker and knob cover
Detail Gallery:
