Compressor Pedals

Compressor pedals are subtle effects that have a large impact on not only your sound but also your playing. A compressor takes your signal (they work most obviously well with clean tones) and sets parameters for controlling your dynamic range (think of a floor and a ceiling and you’re on the right track) as well as bringing the overall level up to give you more sustain for your notes and chords. Compressors smooth out your performance (depending on how you set the pedal) by limiting your louder notes and boosting your quiet ones. This means things like arpeggios and strummed chords can take on a uniformity and clarity that enhances your performance. They are like mini production tools that instantly enhance your guitar sound. Many compressors have tone controlling features too but most work best when they are as transparent as possible.

Bass players will also feel the immediate benefit of a compressor pedal in their effects chain. Regulating the dynamic of the signal can help lots when going from, say, fingers to plectrum or maybe throwing in some slap techniques.

There are a great many compressor pedals available and at guitarguitar, we have selected the very best along with the most popular in order to give you a comprehensive choice for your pedal board. As always, we stock the biggest brands including TC Electronic, MXR and BOSS alongside many more from companies such as Wampler, Xotic, Keeley and Suhr. All of our UK based guitarguitar stores have stock of the best compressor pedals money can buy so if you need some subtle production in your tone, come to guitarguitar and choose from the best selection available anywhere.