Compressor pedals are an essential part of many guitarists’ pedal boards. They are a type of effect pedal that helps to even out the dynamics of a guitar signal, resulting in a smoother, more consistent sound. In this guide, we will take a closer look at compressor pedals and what they can do for your guitar sound.
What is a compressor pedal?
A compressor pedal is an effects pedal that helps to control the dynamic range of a guitar’s signal. The dynamic range refers to the difference between the loudest and quietest parts of the signal. A compressor pedal works by reducing the volume of the loudest parts of the signal and boosting the volume of the quieter parts, resulting in a more even sound.
The basic operation of a compressor pedal involves three key parameters: threshold, ratio, and attack/release time. The threshold determines the point at which the compressor kicks in, while the ratio determines how much the compressor reduces the volume of the signal once it crosses the threshold. The attack/release time determines how quickly the compressor kicks in and how quickly it releases the signal back to its normal volume.
What does a compressor pedal do for guitar?
A compressor pedal can help to achieve a more consistent and even sound from a guitar. Here are some of the ways a compressor pedal can enhance your guitar sound:
- Sustain enhancement: A compressor pedal can help to increase the sustain of your guitar notes by evening out the volume of your signal. This means that your notes will ring out for longer and with a more consistent volume.
- Volume leveling: A compressor pedal can help to level out the volume of your guitar signal, making it easier to control and mix with other instruments in a band setting.
- Increased note definition: By reducing the volume of the loudest parts of your signal, a compressor pedal can help to bring out the details and nuances in your playing, resulting in a more articulate and defined sound.
- Attack enhancement: A compressor pedal can also enhance the attack of your guitar notes by increasing the volume of the quieter parts of your signal. This means that your notes will have a more immediate and punchy sound.
Examples of compressor pedals
There are many different compressor pedals available on the market, each with their own unique features and characteristics. Here are a few examples of popular compressor pedals:
- MXR Dyna Comp: The MXR Dyna Comp is a classic compressor pedal that has been used by guitarists for decades. It features simple controls for threshold and output level, making it easy to use and dial in the right amount of compression.
- Keeley Compressor Plus: The Keeley Compressor Plus is a versatile compressor pedal that offers a wide range of compression settings. It features controls for threshold, ratio, attack, and release time, as well as a blend knob for mixing the compressed and uncompressed signals.
- Boss CS-3: The Boss CS-3 is a budget-friendly compressor pedal that offers a range of compression settings. It features controls for threshold, ratio, and sustain, as well as a tone control for shaping the compressed signal.
Artists who use compressor pedals.
Compressor pedals are used by guitarists in a wide range of genres and playing styles. Here are a few examples of guitarists who use compressor pedals:
- David Gilmour: The legendary Pink Floyd guitarist is known for using a Dyna Comp compressor pedal to achieve his signature sustain and smooth lead tones.
- John Mayer: Mayer is known for using a Keeley Compressor Plus pedal to help even out his fingerpicking and achieve a consistent, dynamic sound.
- Johnny Marr: The former Smiths guitarist uses a Boss CS-3 compressor pedal to help control the dynamic range of his clean guitar tones and achieve a more even sound.
