Empress Effects Buffer+

The Buffer+ is an analog pedalboard interface from Empress Effects with an effects loop, switchable boost, and noise filtering – an expansion of the basic Buffer with a practical feature set for more complex rigs. The key differences from the unadorned Buffer: input impedance adjustable from 10 kΩ to 1 MΩ via the Input Loading knob (cable capacitance simulation), a serial effects loop send/return, a switchable boost up to +30 dB, a two-position Dolby-style noise filter operating only within the effects loop, a three-position Input Pad switch (–3 dB / 0 dB / +3 dB), and tuner mute via footswitch hold. Output impedance: 510 Ω. THD: 0.02%. SNR: 105.3 dB. Frequency response (–3 dB): 5 Hz – 40 kHz. Current draw: 86 mA. Power: 9 V DC. Dimensions: 114×63×38 mm.

Input Loading and noise filter – two features absent from the basic Buffer

The Input Loading knob adjusts input impedance across the range of 10 kΩ – 1 MΩ: at one end of the range the signal passes without any warmth; at the other end it progressively rolls off higher frequencies to simulate long cable runs or the low input impedance of vintage pedals. This is a tone-shaping tool without the noise of real cables. The Dolby-style noise filter in two positions (less and more) operates only on the signal inside the effects loop – it does not clean up the guitar or amplifier, but reduces high-frequency noise introduced by gain or modulation pedals in the loop. The result is a quieter loop return while preserving the full input signal character. The Input Pad (–3 / 0 / +3 dB) matches levels between guitars with passive and active pickups without changing other settings.

Boost, tuner mute and practical role in the signal chain

The boost up to +30 dB is controlled by a knob and activated by the footswitch – from a subtle volume lift to a full solo boost. Tuner mute activates by holding the footswitch for one second, silencing the Amp Out without interrupting power to the effects loop pedals. The Tuner Out (independent, unaffected by mute) can serve as a second output, a DI for recording, or a key signal for a noise gate or side-chain compressor. Empress recommends placing the Buffer+ as the first and last element in the chain: guitar → Buffer+ In → Loop Out → pedals → Loop In → Amp Out → amplifier. Important: vintage fuzz and wah pedals with low input impedance should be placed before the Buffer+, not inside its loop – they interact with the high output impedance of the buffer and change their tonal character accordingly.

KEY FEATURES

• Analog pedalboard interface with effects loop, boost and noise filtering
• Input impedance: variable 10 kΩ – 1 MΩ (Input Loading knob)
• Output impedance: 510 Ω
• Effects loop: serial send/return
• Boost: up to +30 dB, footswitchable
• Dolby-style noise filter: 2 positions (operates within the effects loop only)
• Input Pad: 3-position (–3 dB / 0 dB / +3 dB)
• Tuner Out: independent (DI, second output, side-chain signal)
• Tuner Mute: footswitch hold silences Amp Out
• THD: 0.02% | SNR: 105.3 dB
• Frequency response (–3 dB): 5 Hz – 40 kHz

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: analog pedalboard interface with loop, boost and filtering
• Input impedance: 10 kΩ – 1 MΩ (variable, Input Loading knob)
• Output impedance: 510 Ω
• Effects loop: serial send/return
• Boost: up to +30 dB (footswitchable)
• Noise filter: Dolby-style, 2 positions (effects loop only)
• Input Pad: –3 dB / 0 dB / +3 dB (3-position switch)
• Tuner Out: yes (independent, with mute function)
• Frequency response (–3 dB): 5 Hz – 40 kHz
• THD: 0.02%
• SNR: 105.3 dB
• Power: 9 V DC, centre-negative, 2.1 mm, 86 mA
• Enclosure material: die-cast aluminium
• Dimensions: 114 × 63 × 38 mm
• Weight: approx. 225 g