I need some Reviews on...........

[TheViking]

Compressors................
anyone here use them?

[SAguitar]

I use a Boss CS-3. It works great. It can do anything from subtle to way too squashed. And it you adjust it just right, it still feels pretty dynamic and natural. :cool:

[Old Believer]

I don't own one, but I would if I had the money - Keeley Compressor.

[kewlpack]

I use the ones in the GT8 sometimes... they do what they do pretty well.

[Barry]

I use the compressor/limiter features that are built into ProTools LE sometimes. It helps keep things on an even keel when recording. I don't really have a need for one otherwise since I don't play anywhere but home right now. I'd have to shop around if I was to have a need for one. The only hardware-based compressor/limiters I've had exposure to were in pro audio racks at my last job. Probably way beyond the price range of us average guys.

Sorry, Viking. This probably doesn't help you much. I'll just say that I do recommend using one if you have the need. Maybe you could consider renting one for a week or two to see if it suits you? :dunno

[Crunchyriff]

I never use a comp of live guitar (though I have threatened to a few times); but for vocals I feel they are essential, even for live use.

IMHO, the RNC Compressor delivers heapum bang for the buck, and is arguably the best under $1.5k comp on the mkt. Pro Rec can't say enough about them. We use one for vocals live (on "Super Nice Mode"); and I won't sing without it if I can help it.

[UncleMarker]

Back in my studio days, we always compressed bass and almost always did the same for vocals (dbx 160s, usually set with a fairly low threshold and a moderately shallow slope). I keep my MXR Dyna-Comp in the guitar rig, but I don't use it a lot - usually just to push the fuzz box a little harder! They can be a great tool, but it takes some time and practice to figure out how to best put 'em to use.

[stephen]

They can be a great tool, but it takes some time and practice to figure out how to best put 'em to use.

AMEN! Too much compression goin on these days!

[leecow]

When the effect is needed and depending on which rig I'm playing, I use a Keeley compressor or the compressor supplied in the G•Major.

The Keeley is a quality, quiet unit and will do very subtle to very squishy.

[dmw]

I use an old MIJ Boss CS-2 compressor and use it sparingly. If I were getting something else, I'd either mod this one, or buy an Indyguitarist modded Boss CS-3 or a kit from Indyguitarist to mod one myself. BTW, the owner, Brian, is a Christian, and his pedals and mods comparable to anybody's.

[Micter]

MXR Dynacomp!!!!! Great pedal!!!

[LesStrat]

+1

I LOVE my Dynacomp, and you can get one for about $69.

[refin]

I use the Digitech Main Squeeze as a stompbox compressor---it works very well,but probably the same as ones already mentioned.

[DJanzen]

I recently bought a used Carl Martin compressor/limiter to use with a Taylor 655, and a Taylor T5. In doses. I like the sustain and evening out of the tone I get... along with the added boost when desired. But again, so far used in moderation. Very nice pedal.

DJanzen

[strumminsix]

I'v found comps to be great when used in one of two ways:
#1 - enhance a natural sound - best example how bass players use it
#2 - when used to tame a tone - maybe an auto-wah that's a bit wild or your tone is too broad for the mix or you don't seem to have the right punch when you want to stand up in the mix.

Personally, I use it for playing riffs and solos. In my application I ensure all my amp settings and modulations and delays and stomps and filters all keep the original volume and tone whether they are on or off. So when I need to stand up above the mix I add in the comp which gives me a nice and even volume boost and higher quality tone.

[dmock66]

I have a DOD Milk Box. I like it - but you have to be somewhat careful - the compressor can be a bit of a double-edged sword. Like most things, it's best in moderation. It does tighten up gain tones and add sustain - so that end I like it!!!

David

[TheViking]

.... a lot of good things here.
I have been trying out most compressors i could get my paws on.
The EMMA Transmorgrifier is still my fav
The Carl Martins I have tried are sure good.
I also found a Boss compressor i kept.
Hmm now the Keeley looks tempting

One of my favs for studio use tho is the RNC (really nice compressor)

\:D/

[Crossroadsguitar]

The I use the DOD milk box as well. For a low price compressor I have found that it really gets the job done. It is not noisy either

[phisherman1997]

I've been using the Teese RMC FK-1 for about a year now. VERY transparent (I've hated pretty much all of the compressors I auditioned due to the 'tone squash'). I go back and forth as to whether or not I need it, so I leave it on the pedalboard and go with my mood, the room, etc.

Moderately inexpensive (as boutique comps go) at $129.

my .02