The GUP Tech Dino Range is a compressor pedal from the Canadian builder GUP Tech, aimed at players who want either a set-and-forget compressor for live use or, in the maker's words, "a complete and versatile machine." GUP Tech describes its character as "Transparent and Quiet," and the pedal carries a 5mm LED indicator and a true bypass design. It is sold in a Burnt Orange style option and is priced at £107.00 GBP1. For where it sits among compressor pedals, its distinguishing feature is the separate release control and the attack toggle, which most simple compressors do not offer.
Controls
The Dino Range has three knobs and a toggle switch:
| Control | Function |
|---|---|
| FORCE | Volume1 |
| CRUSH | Compression1 |
| FREE | Release time1 |
| ATTACK | Short-Long toggle, selecting the attack time1 |
The FREE control is the one that sets this apart from a basic two-knob compressor. GUP Tech explains that the release time "lets you choose between a nice pumping effect (short release) or a very long sustain." In practice, a short release gives that audible breathing movement as notes decay, while a long release holds the compression open so sustained notes ring out evenly1.
The ATTACK toggle selects between two attack times. For strummed parts, the maker points to the slow setting: "The slow attack setting is ideal for strumming, you're gonna keep your pick attack while levelling the volume of your wh[ole playing]." That means the opening transient of each strum passes through untouched while the body of the chord is evened out. The short setting clamps down faster, for a more immediately levelled sound1.
Power and build
The pedal runs from a DC output with negative center polarity, compatible with a standard 9V adaptor1. No battery option or current draw figure is given by the maker.
The Dino Range is built by GUP Tech in Saguenay, Québec, Canada. The maker states: "All of our pedals are made by us in Saguenay, Québec, Canada"1.
GUP Tech also builds other dynamics-oriented pedals, including the Galak-C.
Questions
Is the GUP Tech Dino Range true bypass?
Yes. GUP Tech lists the Dino Range as a true bypass design, meaning the pedal's circuit is removed from your signal path entirely when it is switched off. When it is on, it works as a compressor, shaping dynamics with the Force, Crush, Free and Attack controls.
Where is the GUP Tech Dino Range made?
GUP Tech builds the Dino Range at its own shop in Saguenay, Québec, Canada. The maker states that all of its pedals are made by the company there, so the Dino Range is a Canadian-built pedal rather than an imported mass-produced unit.
What power supply does the Dino Range need?
The Dino Range runs from a DC output with negative center polarity, compatible with a standard 9V adaptor. As with any negative-center pedal, use an isolated or appropriately rated supply rather than a mismatched adapter.
What does the Free knob do on the Dino Range?
Free sets the release time of the compression. According to GUP Tech, a short release gives a nice pumping effect, while turning it toward long gives very long sustain. It works alongside Crush, which sets the amount of compression.
Which attack setting suits strumming on the Dino Range?
The slow attack setting. GUP Tech says the slow attack setting is ideal for strumming, because you keep your pick attack while the pedal levels the volume of your playing. The fast (short) setting suits players who want the compression to clamp down sooner.
Sources (1)
- Dino Range, GUP Tech (guptech.ca)
