Shot CO-20 Compressor late-80s to early 90s

Rare pedal with original box and manual. Very good condition, except for a bit of wear on the underside.

The Shot CO-20 Compressor is a Japanese-made analog compressor pedal produced in the late 1980s, sharing its circuit and design with the Cyclone CO-20 and Epiphone EP-CO-20. All three were manufactured by the same OEM source in Japan and distributed under different brand names for various regional markets. The Shot version was marketed primarily in Europe, distributed by Luxor Musik in Germany.

The pedal's design is based on the Loco Box CM-01 Compressor, one of the most influential Japanese compressor circuits of the late 1970s. It delivers a smooth, balanced compression effect that enhances sustain while keeping output levels consistent. The compression is natural and musical, adding fullness to clean tones and tightening up distorted sounds.

The Shot CO-20 uses a molded plastic enclosure, distinguishing it from earlier metal-bodied models in the same circuit family. Despite its lightweight construction, it remains sturdy enough for stage use and features reliable controls for quick adjustment. The internal layout and specifications are identical to its Cyclone and Epiphone counterparts.

Controls

• Level: Adjusts the overall output volume.
• Attack: Controls how quickly the compression responds to the input signal.
• Sustain: Determines the compression depth and sustain duration.

Technical Specifications

• Input level: +3 dBm (normal), -10 dBm (effect).
• Maximum output level: +5 dBm (effect).
• Input impedance: 300 kΩ.
• Output impedance: 200 Ω.
• Signal-to-noise ratio: More than 72 dB.
• Compression range: 40 dB.
• Attack time: Less than 2 s.
• Power supply: 9V battery or DC adapter.
• Construction: Plastic enclosure.
• Manufacturer: OEM (Japan).
• Country of manufacture: Japan.
• Production period: Late 1980s to early 1990s.

Highlights

• Japanese analog compressor based on the Loco Box CM-01 circuit.
• Same design and electronics as the Cyclone CO-20 and Epiphone EP-CO-20.
• Distributed in Europe under the Shot brand by Luxor Musik, Germany.
• Delivers smooth, transparent compression with long sustain and minimal noise.
• Plastic housing typical of late-1980s Japanese OEM production.
• Compact and lightweight yet durable design.
• Highly collectible today as part of the short-lived CO-20 compressor family.