PedalBoard 101

#4 Compressor

The black beast of beginner guitarist, the most feared and less understood effect: The Compressor.

In reality, compressor pedals are an essential tool for many guitarists, offering a range of tonal possibilities and the ability to shape and control your sound. In this blog post, we'll explore what a compressor pedal does, the different types of compressors available, and how to use them in your playing.

How it works

Simply put, a compressor pedal reduces the dynamic range of your guitar signal, meaning it reduces the volume of the loudest parts and increases the volume of the quietest parts. This results in a smoother, more even sound that can help to even out the volume of your playing, particularly when using distorted tones.

The best way to learn is to experiment with the controls and see what works best for you and your playing style. Most compressor pedals have controls for threshold, attack, release, and ratio, and each of these controls will affect the sound of the pedal in different ways.

Very important and not that common of a control is the threshold control, which determines the volume level at which the compressor starts to kick in, while the attack control determines how quickly the compressor starts to work. The release control determines how quickly the compressor stops working, and the ratio control determines how much the volume is reduced.

It's important to keep in mind that a compressor pedal is not a "set and forget" type of effect. The settings you use will depend on the type of guitar you're playing, the style of music you're playing, and the amp you're using. It's a good idea to start with the controls set to their midpoints and then adjust from there to find the sound you're looking for.

Some history

The history of guitar compressors can be traced back to the 1950s, when studio engineers began using compressor pedals to shape the sound of their recordings. These early compressors were large, expensive units that were primarily used in recording studios and were not widely available to guitarists.

In the 1960s, a few manufacturers began producing smaller, more portable compressor pedals that were designed specifically for use by guitarists. These pedals, such as the Ross Compressor and the Dynacomp, quickly became popular among players looking to add sustain and smoothness to their sound.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the development of solid-state technology led to the creation of smaller, more affordable compressor pedals that were widely available to guitarists. These pedals, such as the MXR Dyna Comp and the Electro-Harmonix LPB-1, became popular among players looking to add punch and clarity to their sound.

Today, there are a wide range of compressor pedals available, ranging from vintage-style units that emulate the sound of classic studio compressors to modern, digital units with a wide range of features and controls. Whether you're a professional musician or a beginner, there is a compressor pedal available to suit your needs and playing style.

Where to go in the signal chain?

A compressor pedal can be placed anywhere in the signal chain, but it is typically placed either at the beginning or the end of the chain.

If you place it at the beginning of the chain, the compressor will affect the entire signal, including any overdrive or distortion effects that come after it. This can help to even out the dynamics of the signal and smooth out the overall sound.

If you place it at the end of the chain, the compressor will only affect the dry signal, which can be useful for adding sustain and smoothness to the overall sound.

Ultimately, the best place for a compressor pedal in your signal chain will depend on the specific sound you are trying to achieve and the other pedals you are using. Experimenting with different placement options can help you find the sound that works best for you.

My 2 cents

In conclusion, guitar compressor pedals are a versatile and essential tool for any guitarist looking to shape and control their sound. With a little experimentation and practice, you can find the perfect settings to suit your playing style and take your sound to the next level.