Which compressor to use as an effect?

[MOR_Lio]

Hi everyone,

I am looking for a compressor that I could use as an effect, meaning it won't always be on, but only when I need some extra-punch. (for example when I have my distortion on during a chorus and that then the guitar goes solo and I need more presence, so just as one more layer)

I plan on buying a new compressor (I am currently using the MXR Super Comp, which is supposed to be a guitar compressor but it is not so bad on bass). My MXR is somehow squashing my tone. Which compressor would be the best in this case? I am seriously thinking about getting an aphex Punch factory.

Thanks

[bongomania]

The Punch Factory is about the farthest you can possibly get from "compression as an effect". The word "punch" painted on it unfortunately means nothing about what it does or how it sounds.

Another thing to note is that many compressors actually smooth the edges off distortion, essentially canceling the effect. Also distortion is a form of compression, so it's redundant. I usually recommend to people that they stomp off their compressor when they stomp on their distortion.

You could put the compressor before the dirt, but then your levels would be capped by the distortion pedal anyway, you'd just get more distortion.

I would recommend something else to give you more presence during those guitar solos. An EQ, an octave-up, or maybe a BBE or Aphex Enhancer/Maximizer. Something that will adjust the frequencies emphasized, without altering your gain structure.

If you want an effect compressor unrelated to the distortion, check out the Jacques Fat Burner.

[manmountain8]

I have heard the EBS Multicomp is the most versatile and best sounding comp pedal. I am getting a Demeter Compulator for simplicity, but for a comp pedal that can create some different sounds I'd get the EBS. Compression pedals don't always work well with distortion though because distortion pedals can compress the signal already.

[LumpyGravy]

I use an Ibanez PD7 Phat-Hed. It's an overdrive pedal. Sounds like what you are looking for.
I love it. It's got nice features and doesn't color your sound. Check it out.

[Mark Olson]

I've owned the Punch Factory and it really isn't much of an effect. Set properly it's very transparent. Set it too high and it just takes the life out of your tone.

Also never been a fan of the sound of compressors with distortion pedals. Always seemed to me to make them just not sound as good, not make your sound bigger or anything.

[Swift713]

I've found that a compressor set for a punchy boost kind of effect before an overdrive can in fact provide a little more edge or definition. However, I've really only tried this with two comps and it worked with the Zoom B2's comp and not the Demeter Compulator. Also, I believe any boost will do the same. I just couldn't get any boost out of the Demeter with my bass.

[marcblum]

check out the EXAR BASS COMPRESSOR