Can't hear comp

Flogger · #1 03-04-2010, 04:43 PM

I know, it's another compression thread. Sorry guys.

But I'm in a bit of a dilemma.
Im a long time lurker, first time poster and have recently bought a BBE Opto-Stomp to clean up/even out my tone based on the glowing reviews many of you guys have given it.
The thing is, i really can't hear the difference between my clean tone and when I have the opto on. Yeah i know that its a transparent unit, and that compression doesnt really have an effect on tone, but i can honestly not hear how it makes any difference, in either a band or solo situation, apart from a slight volume drop when i crank the compression up full.
Using a Corvette Standard (active) into an Orange Crush 35W. Have also tried it with a 100w behringer combo (i know) and an old Laney head+cabs.

Thanks

pedalguy1 · #2 03-04-2010, 04:50 PM

I dont mean to sound rude in any way, but did you know what a compressor did before you bought it? Your right, it shouldnt affect your tone, but dynamics. Turn off your compressor and dig into your strings lightly, then hard. Click on the compressor and do the same. The compressor should reduce the difference between the two.

Morning Beer · #3 03-04-2010, 04:50 PM

Sounds like you have set perfectly if your not noticing it.

bongomania · #4 03-04-2010, 05:14 PM

Agreed.

That said, if you find that it does not alter the dynamics of your peak levels at all, then make sure the pad switch is set to 0 dB, and turn up the input gain on your amp. At some point in that process you should find a zone where without the comp, you clip the amp, and with the comp, you don't (at least, not as much).

Johnny Crab · #5 03-04-2010, 05:24 PM

^^^^^^ THIS ^^^^^^^^

Most use a comp to protect gear and/or the sometimes-frowned-upon use to cover poor control/technique. It took about 40 minutes of playing with the dbx 166xL here to get it to be inaudible and only serve as a protector of speakers(700 watt RMS amp feeding 350 watt RMS ACME B2's).