Vahlbruch Opto Trem
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
Vahlbruch
Opto Trem
Product Info
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
This Vahlbruch Opto Trem nails that classic, vintage tremolo vibe—think early Fender amps but in a pedal. The optical coupling really gives it a unique, almost pulsing quality that’s hard to replicate. It’s a fantastic choice for players wanting a simple, reliable, and musically expressive tremolo without a ton of bells and whistles.
Product Description
- Vahlbruch Opto Trem
- Effect Pedal for Electric Guitar
- Pure analogue tremolo effect pedal with optical signal conduction by photocell
- Can also be used as a clean boost
- True bypass
- Controls: Speed
- Volume
- Intensity
- Switch: Hard/Soft
- LED: effect on
- modulation speed
- Footswitch: On/Off
- Input and output: 6.3 mm jack
- Power consumption: 40 mA
- Mains adapter connection: Barrel connector 5.5 x 2.1 mm
- center negative
- Power supply via 9 V DC mains adapter (not included) - suitable power supply unit: Art. #409939#
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 115 x 70 x 48 mm
- Weight: 240 g
- Handmade in Germany
*Note:* Battery operation is not supported.
PROS
- • The optical coupling delivers exceptionally smooth, organic tremolo tones.
- • Handmade German build quality ensures robust construction and long-term reliability.
- • The 'Hard/Soft' switch offers a surprisingly wide range of tremolo textures.
- • Clean boost functionality adds subtle volume and clarity when tremolo is bypassed.
CONS
- • Lack of battery operation limits portability and stage convenience.
- • The compact size might feel cramped for players with larger feet.
- • Limited control range compared to more complex, digital tremolo solutions.
Product Video
Key Features
Effect Type
Analogue Optical Tremolo with Clean Boost
Controls
Speed, Volume, Intensity, Hard/Soft Switch
Bypass Type
True Bypass
Power Supply
9V DC Mains Adapter (5.5 x 2.1mm, center negative)
Connections
6.3mm Mono Jack (Input/Output)
Dimensions
115 x 70 x 48 mm
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Frequently Asked Questions
Optical tremolos use a photocell to control the signal, resulting in a smoother, more natural modulation compared to the sometimes harsher character of FET-based designs.
While it's a clean boost, it’s more of a subtle lift – enough to compensate for volume drops from the tremolo, but not a huge, driving boost on its own.
It feels surprisingly solid; the metal enclosure and robust footswitch inspire confidence, typical of well-built German-engineered gear.
