Multi-bandД¬ompressors like the Boss CP-1X are a multi-band effects pedal, meaning they process different frequencies in your signal independently. After you've set your compression вЂ“ how fast the attack, the level of sustain, and so on вЂ“ adjusting the blend is a convenient way of keeping on top of your squish. One feature to look out for is a blend control, enabling you to control the mix between your dry, uncompressed signal and the compressed signal. Basically, this control adjusts the amount the volume will dip once the compressor kicks in. Still, it can be found on high-end pedals such as the Origin Effects Cali76 Compact Deluxe. This control you see more on studio compressors. This is for adjusting the length of time before your compressed signal relaxes back to normal. Some pedals will have controls for recovery.

If your compressor has this control, it's worth playing around with it to get the exact sound you want. The Dyna Comp has this as a fast/slow binary choice, while Wampler's Ego and the CP-1X have dials. In contrast, a fast attack means the compression is immediate. A slower attack will allow a portion of your note to be unaffected. The attack knob simply adjusts how quickly the compressor kicks in. Be warned, though, sometimes the more compression you add, the more noise you can add to your signal as well. The higher the dial, usually the more sustain you will get. Sometimes labeled as sustain, compression, or simply comp, this knob controls the overall level of compression your signal receives. This is probably the most crucial control and the easiest to explain. It should be noted that not every pedal has all of these controls, this is just a general guide to what these terms mean.

Some people find these pedals challenging to use, so let's go through some standard controls found on the best compressor pedals. A compressor can also be beneficial if you're a metal player who has a penchant for legato shred - I mean, who doesn't? There are some situations where a compressor is essential - think rhythmically complex funk or the twangy licks of country. Add some filth with the best distortion pedals.The enclosureвЂ™s Fender amp jewel light is pretty darn cool too. Blend ensures you have control over how much of your original uncompressed signal is in the mix.ДЇender The Bends pedal is built like a tank, with dual audio paths keeping noise to a minimum. Recovery sets the release time of the compression вЂ“ ie, how long it takes before the compression relaxes вЂ“ and in conjunction with the drive control enables you to dial in the compression and sustain you want. If the very idea of Fender building your go-to stompbox compressor is kinda novel, and if the controls on offer feel a little unfamiliar вЂ“ with drive and recovery knobs joining the wet/dry blend control вЂ“ then the tones should sound reassure youвЂ¦ The Bends offers OTA-based circuitry that places it in the lineage of the MXR Dyna Comp et al.Д«acklit LEDs on the control knobs let you know whatвЂ™s what on a darkened stage. If we're forced to only pick one, then we'd have to go for the Keeley Compress Plus. It goes without saying but, any entry in our best compressor pedals list has something to offer and is worth checking out. Just as with electric guitars, there are so many high-quality compressor pedals on the market it can get a little overwhelming. Or check out the best pedalboard power suppliesД«est compressor pedals: Guitar WorldвЂ™s choice.The best pedalboard for your pedals stash.On that note, let us help you track down the best compressor to tame those dynamics. It may not seem like it, but it's the sort of pedal that once you have one, you'll question how you ever lived without it. Whether you choose to use it as a subtle always-on tonal sweetener or crank the effect up to achieve those classic Nashville country tones, the compressor is a must-have pedal. This results in a smoother, more balanced sound and has the added benefit of giving you more sustain. Very basically, a compressor reduces the dynamic range of your guitar - making the loud parts quieter and the quiet parts louder. The compressor may not have the most transformative effect on your tone, especially compared to the dramatic difference chorus pedals or phaser pedals have on your sound.

Keeley compressor 4