Compressors.... justifying cost...

chjohnst · #1 05-05-2009, 08:37 AM

So I read lots of reviews on the forums, seems most people are VERY happy with the Demeter Compulator as well as the Aphex Punch Factory. I like the fact that there is a DI output on it, but I doubt I will need to use that every since my amp has one already (GK BK600) and I have been doing a DI/MIC combo.

I have a very aggressive attack on my strings when I play on a lot of songs, but I also play some root note melodies on some songs where my guitar player has more of the lead on and I am a backing rhythm.

So I want something that can help sustain notes longer and help hold them without making the sound "squashy". But for heavy aggressive passages (slap, finger funk) I would like something to even out the tone.

The Demeter is about 70 dollars more in price compared to the Aphex so I am trying to justify the price difference on them. The Aphex is in a decent price range for the money and the reviews on it seem pretty good.

Thoughts?

Jared Lash · #2 05-05-2009, 08:53 AM

Like anything else it's a matter of diminishing returns. Is the Demeter twice as good as the best $100 compressor? Probably not. Then again, I don't think the Punch Factory is the best $100 compressor.

chjohnst · #3 05-05-2009, 08:55 AM

There are just so many to choose from, I am really not looking to spend 500 dollars sorting through 3-4 compressors to find the "right one".

SteveC · #4 05-05-2009, 09:07 AM

I would also put the BBE Opto Stomp in the good for $100 category. I like mine. Pretty transparent and doesn't get in the way, just evens things out a bit. I had the Demeter before and I didn't think it sounded twice as good.

I still go back and forth. Right now I'm not using it. I have learned to keep one around, though for when I change my mind. It didn't cost that much so it can sit until I decide to go with a compressor again.

chjohnst · #5 05-05-2009, 09:29 AM

I see mister bongo gave it a good review. 99 bucks looks right for the price. Have you used this in a studio at all doing any recording?

**DosiYanarchy** · #6 05-05-2009, 12:18 PM

My optostomp is always on, its so subtle that you have to crank it to get a noticable effect. But thats kind of the idea really, it'll tame your signal.

having looked at at waveforms i've recorded with the optostomp on and off, i can actually see the difference the optostomp makes.

i set mine with compression at about 40-50%, and with the -15bd input pad engaged (so i dont make the compressor peak)

Im still learning to use it well, but i'll never sell (probably).

grovest · #7 05-05-2009, 03:09 PM

I'd do what to improve the dynamic control with your right and left hand technique first. And it looks like your amp puts out 300 Watts at 4 Ohms. Do you have a 4 Ohm load on the head, or just 8? More power can mean better control over your dynamic range.

chjohnst · #8 05-05-2009, 04:16 PM

Right now I just have the 4x10 cabinet, I am planning to get one more cabinet for underneath. I am debating on getting another 4x10 or just 1x15....

Building up my technique has been a huge focus for me lately and will take some time of course. I think in general compression is a good thing if you have a line of effects like an envelope filter or something right? I don't want to break the bank here, but I want to get the right compressor for my needs and not have to regret my decision on the purchase.

-Chris

LeonD · #9 05-05-2009, 07:06 PM

I used to have the Punch Factory. I was VERY subtle. So subtle that I ended up selling it.

I recently got a Compulator and I really like it. It just seems to smooth over the notes. Plus I can use is as a pseudo limiter and it doesn't mess with my tone.

I'd say it's definitely worth the extra money.

LeonD

Jim C · #10 05-05-2009, 08:09 PM

Is it really that much of an inconvenience to carry a 1 rack space studio unit?
IMO, a used dbx 166 blows away anything that sits on the floor and sell used for $75 - $150.
.02

bongomania · #11 05-05-2009, 09:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by grovest

More power can mean better control over your dynamic range.

I don't understand how that works. Explain?

knarleybass · #12 05-05-2009, 09:11 PM

How much sustain do you really need? How long are you holding notes for?

MooseLumps · #13 05-05-2009, 09:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bongomania

I don't understand how that works. Explain?

Seconded

fitz420 · #14 05-05-2009, 09:38 PM

i got a new optostomp for 65 bones off evilbay and i'm quite happy. i prefer it to the punchfactory. i'm by no means a compression expert, but to my ears its pretty good, especially for the price.

grovest · #15 05-05-2009, 11:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bongomania

I don't understand how that works. Explain?

like this... if your amp can get louder with less physical input (movement) by you, you can play with more precision and less fatigue.