“Compressor pedal? Really?” I get it, it’s not the most popular option among the amateur musicians. If you are up for a gig or a studio recording, you need to make sure every guitar tone sounds flawless and you can’t do it without a compressor. It is a real magic wand which evens out every guitar tone, adds richness to the sound and this oomph some guitars might lack. There are a bunch of different options on the market, some hi-tech, others vintage, some that work perfectly with rock and metal axes, and also some that are sustained beasts. Give them a try; you’ll be surprised how much these little monsters can enhance the sound and improve your performance.
Best Compressor Pedals 2021 – Reviews and Top Picks
- Wampler Ego Compressor Guitar Effects Pedal
- Controls: Sustain, Tone, Attack, Volume, Blend
- Bypass: True Bypass
- Power requirement: 9V Power Supply, 9v Battery
- Sockets: Input, Output, Power
- Xotic SP Compressor Pedal
- Controls: Volume, Blend, Hi / Mid / Lo compressor level switch
- Bypass: True Bypass
- Power requirement: 9V Power Supply, 9v Battery
- Sockets: Input, Output, Power
- TC Electronic HyperGravity Compressor
- Controls: Sustain, Level, Attack, Blend; Spectra / TonePrint / Vintage switch
- Bypass: Switchable True or Buffered Bypass
- Power requirement: 9V Power Supply, 9v Battery
- Sockets: Input, Output, Power
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Name
Controls:
Bypass:
Power requirement:
Sockets:
Price
Let’s kick it off with a high-end Wampler Ego Compressor pedal. It’s definitely on the pricey side, but it deserves it with all of the technical and sound control capabilities that it has. It includes 5 control knobs: sustain, tone, attack, volume and blend. What’s unique about this comp is its tone knob. Don’t be confused, it doesn’t change the guitar tones, it ensures that the compressed tone remains bright.
We like
The sophisticated control system gives wicked versatility – probably the best on the whole list. You get it all: surreal sustain for the sound attacks, snap and bitey tones for picking. But better yet, blend and tone knobs keep the smooth natural guitar sound and adds sparkles to it. In addition, the comp has an immediate response to the manual changes and your playing. The bypass works perfectly through highly durable relay switching.
we dont like
The Wampler Ego has a lot of flexibility, but it’s rather complicated to use for guitar newbies. It’s also pretty expensive.
PROS
Versatility
Bypass & blend features
Immediate sound response
Cons
Complex
Price
Don’t be misguided by the looks of the Xotic SP. It might look small, but it’s a real beast. It might not be as flexible and feature heavy as other compressors, but with the three-way control switch, internal DIP switches, boost/compression and blending options this is a wicked option that will suit any axe.
We like
Let’s start with the fact that it looks sick. Three-way switch produces significant compression strength when the internal DIP switches allow access to attack/release option and dialing in a variety of vintage and modern tones. It’s also powerful enough to take in both sound and physical abuse (if you travel much). This mini-monster is great at both evening and boosting the sounds. You get thick, punchy compressed sound, but also with some dynamic to it.
we dont like
Some guitarists might find it a bit simple and less versatile due to the lack of control features.
PROS
Mini-pedal format
Solid flexibility and sound
Boost and compression options
Cons
Lacks features
In a few words – this tiny high-tech beauty is one of the best compressor pedals for guitars there is. TC Electronic has taken compressors to a whole new level with making the HyperGravity a digital compressor. It contains three different compressors in this tiny little body. The best thing yet is a TonePrint option, which allows loading the pedal with as many algorithmic compressions as you want.
We like
The TonePrint function is for sure the coolest thing about this compressor: it allows you to load it with infinite (not really) number of compression algorithms programmed by a TC or by yourself through a software editor. But the digital part is not all, controls are also pretty cool. The blend knob, in particular, gives great versatility to the sound, as it not only allows mixing compressed sound with dry but also analogue signal with digital ones. You can also choose between the vintage or modern style compression.
we dont like
It’s definitely not an easy one to use. Particularly the TonePrint could be very tricky if you’ve never worked with it before.
PROS
TonePrint function
Digital compressor
Versatility
Surreal compression abilities
Cons
Pretty complicated to use
This is an extremely powerful, advanced machine, overall a fantastic addition to a sound chain of any self-respecting professional musician. Empress studio-style compressor includes three predefined switchable ratios (2:1, 4:1, 10:1), as well as a truly versatile control system. It also offers LED-based metering.
We like
Empress Effects Compressor comes with three predefined rations, versatile controls, plus a 10-LED meter, and a side-chain TRS loop input – all that give extremely precise control on the input on the whole sound frequency range. LED-based metering also allows you to see exactly what’s going on with the sound through a strip of lights across the pedal. With the single analogue path, the sound is clear, bright and crispy.
we dont like
As it’s the one pedal closest to the studio level compression, it is, naturally, very complicated to use. It is also not the cheapest option.
PROS
Studio-style
Three switchable rations
LED metering
Single Analogue path
Cons
Real tricky to use
Price
Boss does know what it’s doing when it comes to comps. The CP-1X is, probably, the best in their line due to the Digital-Multidimensional processing, which means that it can analyse guitar’s signal and apply pedal’s effect that is best suited for this particular instrument. In addition to the hi-tech core, it also has a classic Boss 4-knob control layout and 18-volt internal electronics.
We like
MDP is a real gem of this compressor pedal. It reduces the harmonic overtones, which means that it holds the overall volume under control while keeping a clear, smooth sound. Besides, it automatically analyses the frequencies in your guitar signal, providing dynamic control at any setting. Gain reduction indicator makes the settings of the pedal transparent.
we dont like
Runs out of battery really fast.
PROS
Boss Multi-dimensional Processing
Gain reduction indicator
Smooth sound
Cons
Short battery life
This compressor pedal includes three controls volume, sustain & attack, with the last one offering three different attack options (Fast, Med, Slow). It may seem like not much, but it’s surprisingly powerful due to powerful.
We like
This compressor pedal is built to last, the grey metal casing is pretty much bulletproof and it will serve you well on tours and outside gigs. The seemingly scarce controls work their magic, making each note last forever while having a very natural sound. Three attack options allow versatility to the sound and lively mix.
we dont like
When putting your amp to the max, it does produce some unwanted noise.
PROS
Three attack options
Lifelong sustain & smooth sound
Easy-to-use
Cons
Produce noise at larger volume settings
A reliable classic Boss CS-3 is a high-class pedal equipped with Level, Attack, Sustain & recently added Tone controls. It won’t break the bank, but it will give you a high-end quality instrument.
We like
Boss CS-3 lives up to the legacy of the brand and offers a bulletproof quality providing impeccable sound even when you are pushing the guitar to its volume limits. It’s sturdy enough to sustain the hardest sound abuse while keeping a sharp, clear sound.
we dont like
Be careful when setting up, otherwise, it might produce some background noise.
PROS
Impeccable sound
Smooth sustain
Ability to compress the loudest sound
Price
Cons
Unwanted noise when set up incorrectly
A legend in the guitar world MXR M102 Dyna Comp has been considered as one of the best compressor pedals for guitars for a long time. DynaComp is one of three main lines of pedal compression, which defined the “Nashville guitar sound” for years and is still one of the most popular choices for guitarists, that prefer vintage single coil guitars. It includes only two knobs: output and sensitivity. Simple, straightforward and classy.
We like
It would be the perfect choice for guitarists leaning towards the classic rock, blues or country sound because classic Dyna Comp compression style, produces thick and bright vintage sound. It’s really simple to use, as it has only two control knobs. Output knob provides a constant output signal, while Sensitivity set the compression threshold, and is responsible for durable sustain and vintage tones.
we dont like
It doesn’t give you as much versatility and flexibility as more modern comps on the list.
PROS
Classic Dyna Comp Squash
Vintage sound
Simplicity
Cons
Less versatility
JOYO JF-10 is simple, straightforward and reliable comp ideal for beginners or guitarists on a budget. For only $30-40 you get a solid compressor with straightforward controls (Sustain, Level, Atack). LED-meter and True Bypass.
We like
The best thing about this pedal is probably its simplicity and power. It has only a couple of controls and switches, which are incredibly easy to understand and control even for those who just picked up the pedal for the first time in their life. This little monster can sustain any abuse and sonic attack as it’s been created to sustain the high-output / active pickups. It maintains well-rounded tones at any frequency.
we dont like
Lacks the versatility and features.
PROS
Suitable for high-output Active pickups
Great for beginners
Price
Cons
Less versatility
Smooth compression and infinite sustain for less than $30 – pretty solid deal I’d say. It’s the most versatile budget-friendly option on the list with 4 control knobs – Level, Tone, Attack & Sustain; LED status indicator and suitable for most guitar styles. It also has a plastic casing, but it’s still very durable. Don’t be misguided by the low price, this is probably the best price to quality option there is.
We like
It has four control knobs with Level, Tone, Attack and Sustain options give a variety of mixing options, as well as keeping clear, sharp-edged sound. Sustain is surprisingly solid and last forever, while compression smoothly softens the loud sounds and adds richness to the low signal.
we dont like
It produces unwanted noise when set up poorly. Also, the plastic casing isn’t ideal if you ask me, but the pedal seems very durable nevertheless.
PROS
Versatile
Clear sound
Abundant sustain and smooth compression
Affordable
Cons
Noisy
Plastic casing
If you are new to the guitar world you might be confused with what the pedals even are, why there are so many of them and what are they even for?
Well, you aren’t wrong, there are a lot of different types of pedals and it is, indeed, confusing. Boosting pedals, Chorus pedals, Tremolo, Analog/Digital Delay, Reverb, Compressor and many others. A lot, I know, but not as difficult as it seems. If you want to read on what they all are – check here. I’m here to tell you about compressor pedals though – probably the most essential of them all (even though guitarists tend to overlook how important they are).
“Why” you might ask? Well, are you familiar with the fact that some strings on the electric guitar sound louder or quieter than others? Its simple physics, thinner strings don’t put out as much volume as others. What compressor does, it “compresses” the guitar signal normalising the dynamic range of the audio input signal. In simple words, it makes every note pretty much equal in volume. It also normalises, sharpens and clears out the tones. Plus, it can improve the tones making them thicker or more “punchy”. And! It can also improve the sound sustain. Crucial for those guitars that don’t have enough of it. Comp also boost the guitar sound, squeezing out as much volume as possible.
Do you need one?
I would say – absolutely, even if you are just starting. Honestly, I think it’s the most underrated guitar gadget there is.
Yes, comps are mostly used in the studios to control the sound dynamics while recording tracks. But the thing is, comps are like a first aid kit for the guitars. We all know that every guitar, even the best one might have some sound flaws and compressor helps you to balance the sound and enhance the guitar tone. It’s great for powerful sonic attacks and metal shredding, because it evens out the sonic abuse. It’s also very helpful for fingerstyle and picking, as it makes every string sound evenly.
Compressor pedals: How to Use 101
The compressor pedal might seem to be an Aladdin’s lamp for a guitar, but it’s rather tricky to use properly. The first question is what the comp is connected to. Basically, it is the connection point between the guitar and the amp. In a long guitar signal chain compressor goes right after guitar, then all other pedals you might be using, and then the amplifier.
Nest, you need to know the core elements of the comps which are: first up you need to know what core elements of the compressor are:
- Input level – a key element which defines the range of signal that the compressor reacts to. Setting up the input is the most important thing you need to do when getting the comp. Correct input level means that the comp will actually work. The wrong setup will result in unwanted noise and buzz;
- Threshold – it’s the starting point (sound level) where the compressor starts working;
- Ratio – ration refers to the amount of compression applied to signal. There are several compression rations (4:1, 6:1, 10:1 etc). For example, 10:1 ratio means, that it takes 10dB (decibels) above the threshold for the signal to be turned down so they would only be 1dB above.
Next, do learn what control knobs do and what they are for (read that more on that in the next section below). Here it gets a bit tricky, because some control knobs have different names, but have the exact same meaning. Once you understand what they mean it’s mixing time.
Control options
- Volume/Level – controls the output level of the compressed signal;
- Attack – controls how quickly the compressor response the signal (how fast it starts working)
- Release/Sustain – opposite to the attack, it controls how much time it takes for the signal to return to normal sound. Or, in guitar terms, it determines the length of the sustain
- Sensitivity – you may find this one on some compressors (like MXR M102 Dyna Comp), and it basically means the combination of ratio, threshold, attack & release;
- Ratio – see above;
- Tone – is a very recent addition to the comps (you can find it on Wampler Ego Compressor) and it means a high-end EQ boost, that adds brightness to the compressed tone.
- Blend (Mix) – allows blending the compressed and dry signals.
Types of Compression Pedals
There are few classic compressor types (see the list below). You might want to take a look at that if you know what genre you are playing and it will help you to choose the compressor by identifying its key features:
- Optical – this one uses light-sensitive resistor (LED) to adjust the gain according to the guitar signal. It produces the most natural guitar sound by softening the attack;
- VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) – probably the most common comp type. Gain is controlled through the conversion of guitar signal to DC voltage. VCA are the most versatile and really fast compressors, as they offer a wide range of attack/release options, with rapid response to the changes in tones, while maintaining surreal control (good for metal, rock genres which use fast sonic attacks);
- FET (Field Effect Transistor) – iconic comp inspired by the studio classic. It gives richer, deeper gain reduction and has a tendency to add some wicked distortion to the sound (good for reggae and blues);
- Valve (Tube) – the earliest compressor design the Valve comps produce very smooth compression and fat, warm, “vintage” sound loved by country players (and Beatles fans).
True Bypass vs. Buffered Output
There are a lot of misconceptions regarding the True Bypass. Some believe that compressor must have it, but in reality, there aren’t that many true bypassers on the market. The reason being is that causes more issues than it may seem. But what is a True Bypass after all?
In a few words, a True Bypass pedal ensures that when in bypass mode (off mode), the guitar signal is routed directly to the amp without any interference from the compressor. It literally bypasses the effects’ circuit maintaining the original tone of the axe. Sounds great, but in reality, it poses a few annoying issues. Like they can add some switching noise.
That’s why buffered outputs are more common. Technically, it works as a preamp due to the additional buffer circuitry, which supports both signal quality and level, with the additional benefit of low output impedance. They do have kind of a bad reputation though, due to some badly produced options on the market, which, indeed, compromise the tone of the guitar except for doing what they are supposed to. A well set-up and flawless buffered comp (like Boss CP-1X) is a great option.
Conclusion
Comps can do really great things to your axe and be a major help at any gig, evening the tone and making your guitar sing just like it would in the studio. If you are still doubtful, you can go for a cheap but wicked Behringer CS400. For just $30, it will forever change your mind. In case you are looking for something fancy, powerful and modern, the Wampler Ego or TC Electronic HyperGravity is my personal favourite.
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