Are you looking for the best guitar compressor pedals? Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, a compressor pedal can be a valuable addition to your guitar rig.
Editor’s Note:“Guitar compressor pedals are essential for controlling the dynamics of your guitar signal. They can help you to even out your sound, add sustain, and reduce feedback.”
We’ve done the research and put together this best guitar compressor pedals guide to help you make the right decision. We’ve analyzed the features, specs, and reviews of the top compressor pedals on the market, and we’ve come up with a list of the best options for every budget and need.
Here’s a table that outlines the key differences between our top picks:
Now that you know a little bit more about guitar compressor pedals, let’s take a closer look at our top picks:
1. Attack
The attack time of a compressor is an important factor to consider when choosing a pedal for your guitar rig. A fast attack time will result in a more compressed sound, while a slow attack time will be more subtle.
- Fast attack time: A fast attack time will quickly reduce the gain of the signal, resulting in a more compressed sound. This can be useful for evening out the dynamics of your playing, or for adding sustain to your notes.
- Slow attack time: A slow attack time will allow the signal to rise above the threshold before the compression starts to take effect. This can result in a more natural sound, with less noticeable compression.
The best attack time for your guitar compressor pedal will depend on your playing style and the sound you’re trying to achieve. If you’re not sure what attack time to use, start with a medium setting and adjust it to taste.
2. Release
The release time of a compressor is an important factor to consider when choosing a pedal for your guitar rig. A short release time will result in a more pronounced compression effect, while a long release time will be more subtle.
- Short release time: A short release time will quickly reduce the gain of the signal after the attack, resulting in a more compressed sound. This can be useful for evening out the dynamics of your playing, or for adding sustain to your notes.
- Long release time: A long release time will allow the signal to decay more naturally before the compression starts to take effect. This can result in a more transparent sound, with less noticeable compression.
The best release time for your guitar compressor pedal will depend on your playing style and the sound you’re trying to achieve. If you’re not sure what release time to use, start with a medium setting and adjust it to taste.
Here are some examples of how the release time of a compressor can be used to achieve different effects:
- A short release time can be used to create a more compressed sound, which can be useful for evening out the dynamics of your playing or for adding sustain to your notes.
- A long release time can be used to create a more transparent sound, with less noticeable compression. This can be useful for preserving the natural dynamics of your playing.
The release time of a compressor is a powerful tool that can be used to shape the sound of your guitar. By understanding how the release time works, you can choose the pedal that is right for your needs and playing style.
| Release Time | Effect |
|---|---|
| Short | More compressed sound, evens out dynamics, adds sustain |
| Long | More transparent sound, preserves natural dynamics |
3. Ratio
The ratio of a compressor is an important factor to consider when choosing a pedal for your guitar rig. The ratio determines how much the signal is compressed, and it can have a significant impact on the sound of your guitar.
A low ratio, such as 2:1 or 3:1, will result in a subtle compression effect. This can be useful for evening out the dynamics of your playing, or for adding a little bit of warmth to your sound.
A high ratio, such as 10:1 or 20:1, will result in a more pronounced compression effect. This can be useful for creating a more aggressive sound, or for adding sustain to your notes.
The best ratio for your guitar compressor pedal will depend on your playing style and the sound you’re trying to achieve. However, it’s important to understand how the ratio works so that you can choose the pedal that is right for you.
Here are some examples of how the ratio of a compressor can be used to achieve different effects:
- A ratio of 2:1 can be used to subtly even out the dynamics of your playing, resulting in a more consistent sound.
- A ratio of 5:1 can be used to add a little bit of warmth and sustain to your sound, making it ideal for lead guitar.
- A ratio of 10:1 can be used to create a more aggressive sound, with more sustain and less dynamic range.
The ratio of a compressor is a powerful tool that can be used to shape the sound of your guitar. By understanding how the ratio works, you can choose the pedal that is right for your needs and playing style.
| Ratio | Effect |
|---|---|
| 2:1 | Subtle compression, evens out dynamics |
| 5:1 | Adds warmth and sustain |
| 10:1 | Aggressive sound, more sustain, less dynamic range |
4. Threshold
The threshold of a compressor is an important factor to consider when choosing a pedal for your guitar rig. The threshold determines the level at which the compression starts to take effect, and it can have a significant impact on the sound of your guitar.
A low threshold will result in more compression, which can be useful for evening out the dynamics of your playing or for adding sustain to your notes. However, a low threshold can also lead to a loss of dynamics and a more processed sound.
A high threshold will result in less compre
ssion, which can be useful for preserving the natural dynamics of your playing. However, a high threshold can also lead to a less consistent sound and a loss of sustain.
The best threshold for your guitar compressor pedal will depend on your playing style and the sound you’re trying to achieve. However, it’s important to understand how the threshold works so that you can choose the pedal that is right for you.
Here are some examples of how the threshold of a compressor can be used to achieve different effects:
- A low threshold can be used to subtly even out the dynamics of your playing, resulting in a more consistent sound.
- A medium threshold can be used to add a little bit of warmth and sustain to your sound, making it ideal for lead guitar.
- A high threshold can be used to preserve the natural dynamics of your playing, while still adding a touch of compression to smooth out the sound.
The threshold of a compressor is a powerful tool that can be used to shape the sound of your guitar. By understanding how the threshold works, you can choose the pedal that is right for your needs and playing style.
| Threshold | Effect |
|---|---|
| Low | More compression, evens out dynamics |
| Medium | Adds warmth and sustain |
| High | Preserves natural dynamics, smooths out sound |
5. Gain
The gain of a compressor is an important factor to consider when choosing a pedal for your guitar rig. The gain determines the output level of the pedal, and it can have a significant impact on the sound of your guitar.
- Output level: The output level of a compressor is the level of the signal that is sent to the next pedal in your chain. A high gain setting will boost the signal, while a low gain setting will reduce the signal.
- Make-up gain: Make-up gain is used to compensate for the loss of volume that can occur when compression is applied. A high gain setting will boost the signal after compression, while a low gain setting will reduce the signal.
The best gain setting for your guitar compressor pedal will depend on your playing style and the sound you’re trying to achieve. However, it’s important to understand how the gain works so that you can choose the pedal that is right for you.
Here are some examples of how the gain of a compressor can be used to achieve different effects:
- A high gain setting can be used to boost the output level of your guitar, making it ideal for solos or for playing in a band.
- A low gain setting can be used to reduce the output level of your guitar, making it ideal for playing at low volumes or for recording.
- Make-up gain can be used to compensate for the loss of volume that can occur when compression is applied, resulting in a more consistent output level.
The gain of a compressor is a powerful tool that can be used to shape the sound of your guitar. By understanding how the gain works, you can choose the pedal that is right for your needs and playing style.
6. Mix
The mix control of a compressor is an important factor to consider when choosing a pedal for your guitar rig. The mix control determines the blend of compressed and uncompressed signals, and it can have a significant impact on the sound of your guitar.
A high mix setting will result in a more compressed sound, which can be useful for evening out the dynamics of your playing or for adding sustain to your notes. However, a high mix setting can also lead to a loss of dynamics and a more processed sound.
A low mix setting will result in a more natural sound, which can be useful for preserving the natural dynamics of your playing. However, a low mix setting can also lead to a less consistent sound and a loss of sustain.
The best mix setting for your guitar compressor pedal will depend on your playing style and the sound you’re trying to achieve. However, it’s important to understand how the mix control works so that you can choose the pedal that is right for you.
Here are some examples of how the mix control of a compressor can be used to achieve different effects:
- A high mix setting can be used to subtly even out the dynamics of your playing, resulting in a more consistent sound.
- A medium mix setting can be used to add a little bit of warmth and sustain to your sound, making it ideal for lead guitar.
- A low mix setting can be used to preserve the natural dynamics of your playing, while still adding a touch of compression to smooth out the sound.
The mix control of a compressor is a powerful tool that can be used to shape the sound of your guitar. By understanding how the mix control works, you can choose the pedal that is right for your needs and playing style.
| Mix Setting | Effect |
|---|---|
| High | More compressed sound, evens out dynamics |
| Medium | Adds warmth and sustain |
| Low | Preserves natural dynamics, smooths out sound |
7. Sidechain
A sidechain input is a powerful tool that can be used to create a variety of effects, including ducking, pumping, and gating. Ducking is a technique that is often used to reduce the volume of one signal when another signal is present. For example, you could use a sidechain to duck the bass guitar when the kick drum is playing. This can help to create a cleaner and more defined sound, especially in dense mixes.
Pumping is another effect that can be created using a sidechain. Pumping is a rhythmic effect that is created by compressing a signal in time with another signal. For example, you could use a sidechain to pump the volume of a synthesizer in time with the kick drum. This can create a more dynamic and exciting sound.
Gating is a technique that is used to silence a signal when it falls below a certain threshold. For example, you could use a sidechain to gate a noise gate on the guitar signal. This can help to reduce the amount of noise in your recordings.
Sidechain compression is a versatile tool that can be used to create a variety of effects. It is an essential tool for any engineer or producer who wants to create professional-sounding recordings.
Here are some examples of how sidechain compression can be used with guitar compressor pedals:
- Duck the bass guitar when the kick drum is playing to create a cleaner and more defined sound.
- Pump the volume of a synthesizer in time with the kick drum to create a more dynamic and exciting sound.
- Gate a noise gate on the guitar signal to reduce the amount of noise in your recordings.
Sidechain compression is a powerful tool that can be used to improve the sound of your guitar playing. By understanding how sidechain compression works, you can use it to create a variety of effects that will make your guitar sound its best.
| Effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Ducking |
Reduces the volume of one signal when another signal is present. |
| Pumping | Compresses a signal in time with another signal to create a rhythmic effect. |
| Gating | Silences a signal when it falls below a certain threshold. |
8. True bypass
True bypass is an important feature to consider when choosing a guitar compressor pedal. True bypass ensures that the compressor is completely removed from the signal path when it is turned off. This is important because it prevents the compressor from affecting the sound of your guitar when it is not in use.
- Transparency: True bypass ensures that the compressor does not affect the sound of your guitar when it is turned off. This is important for preserving the natural tone of your guitar.
- Signal integrity: True bypass prevents the compressor from degrading the signal of your guitar. This is important for maintaining the clarity and definition of your sound.
- No unwanted noise: True bypass ensures that the compressor does not introduce any unwanted noise into your signal. This is important for keeping your sound clean and free of hiss or hum.
If you are looking for a guitar compressor pedal that will provide you with the best possible sound quality, then you should choose a pedal with true bypass. True bypass will ensure that the compressor does not affect the sound of your guitar when it is not in use, preserving the natural tone and clarity of your instrument.
FAQs about Guitar Compressor Pedals
Guitar compressor pedals are a valuable tool for any guitarist who wants to control the dynamics of their sound. They can help to even out the volume of your playing, add sustain to your notes, and reduce feedback. However, with so many different compressor pedals on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.
Question 1: What are the most important factors to consider when choosing a guitar compressor pedal?
The most important factors to consider when choosing a guitar compressor pedal are the attack, release, ratio, threshold, gain, and mix controls. These controls allow you to customize the way the compressor affects your sound, so it’s important to understand how each one works.
Question 2: What is the difference between hard knee and soft knee compression?
Hard knee compression is a more aggressive type of compression that creates a sharp cutoff between the compressed and uncompressed signals. Soft knee compression is a more gradual type of compression that creates a smoother transition between the compressed and uncompressed signals.
Question 3: What is the best way to use a compressor pedal with an electric guitar?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to use a compressor pedal with an electric guitar will vary depending on your playing style and the sound you’re trying to achieve. However, a good starting point is to set the attack and release times to medium, the ratio to 4:1, and the threshold to -10dB.
Question 4: What is the best way to use a compressor pedal with an acoustic guitar?
When using a compressor pedal with an acoustic guitar, it’s important to use a light touch. Too much compression can squash the natural dynamics of the acoustic guitar, so it’s best to start with a low ratio and threshold and gradually increase them until you achieve the desired sound.
Question 5: Can I use a compressor pedal with other instruments?
Yes, compressor pedals can be used with a variety of instruments, including bass guitar, keyboards, and vocals. However, it’s important to note that the settings you use for one instrument may not be appropriate for another.
Question 6: What are some of the best guitar compressor pedals on the market?
Some of the best guitar compressor pedals on the market include the Empress Compressor, the Diamond Compressor, the MXR M87 Compressor, and the Keeley Compressor Plus.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about guitar compressor pedals. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
Tips for Using Guitar Compressor Pedals
Guitar compressor pedals are a valuable tool for any guitarist who wants to control the dynamics of their sound. They can help to even out the volume of your playing, add sustain to your notes, and reduce feedback. However, getting the most out of a compressor pedal requires some understanding of how they work and how to use them effectively.
Here are five tips for using guitar compressor pedals:
Tip 1: Start with a low ratio and threshold.
When you’re first starting out with a compressor pedal, it’s best to start with a low ratio and threshold. This will help you to get a feel for how the compressor works and how it affects your sound. You can gradually increase the ratio and threshold as you become more comfortable with using the pedal.
Tip 2: Use a fast attack time for a more aggressive sound.
The attack time of a compressor determines how quickly the compressor starts to reduce the gain of the signal. A fast attack time will result in a more aggressive sound, while a slow attack time will result in a more subtle sound. If you’re looking for a compressor pedal that will help you to add sustain to your notes, then you’ll want to use a fast attack time.
Tip 3: Use a slow release time for a more natural sound.
The release time of a compressor determines how quickly the compressor stops reducing the gain of the signal. A slow release time will result in a more natural sound, while a fast release time will result in a more processed sound. If you’re looking for a compressor pedal that will help you to even out the volume of your playing, then you’ll want to use a slow release time.
Tip 4: Use the mix control to blend the compressed and uncompressed signals.
The mix control of a compressor pedal allows you to blend the compressed and uncompressed signals. This can be useful for creating a more natural sound, or for adding a touch of compression to your sound without squashing the dynamics completely.
Tip 5: Experiment with different settings to find what works best for you.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to using a guitar compressor pedal. The best way to find out what works best for you is to experiment with different settings. Try using different ratios, attack times, release times, and mix settings until you find a combination that you like.
By following these tips, you can get the most out of your guitar compressor pedal and use it to create a variety of great sounds.
Guitar Compressor Pedals
Throughout this exploration of the “best guitar compressor pedals,” we’ve examined the inner workings of these versatile effects, delving into their key parameters and exploring their impact on guitar sound. From the subtle nuances of attack and release to the powerful dynamics of ratio and threshold, we’ve provided a comprehensive understanding of how guitar compressor pedals can elevate your playing.
Remember, the journey to finding the perfect guitar compressor pedal is an ongoing process of experimentation and refinement. Embrace the sonic possibilities and let your creativity guide you. By understanding the principles outlined in this guide, you’re empowered to harness the potential of guitar compress
or pedals, unlocking a world of expressive and dynamic playing.
