Bass Compression, do I need an expensive Pedal?

[Peter Smith892]

No you don't need to spend a lot of money; for example the TC Electronic SpectraComp is less than $100 and gets some good reviews. I don't personally own this pedal, but do some research and find out for yourself

 

[Jim C]

Some advice:

1) Ignore every post simply naming a compressor or claiming "I use xxxx and it's the best."

2) Ignore the posts telling you you don't/shouldn't need a compressor if your technique is sound.

3) Ignore the quick route - i.e. People saying to get a cheapo compressor and use that as a starting point. I don't think these will give you a good feel for what quality compression can offer to your sound.

The Ovnilab site may seem a bit overwhelming or confusing if you're looking for a quick and easy answer regarding which compressor is best for you. That's only true if you're unwilling to spend some time reading a very thorough analysis of what compressors can be used for, how/why they work, and which ones may be worth checking out based on your needs and price point. However, you could spend years taking anecdotal advice on this board and flipping pedals in the classifieds every week without getting the result you want from a compressor.

As was stated earlier, qualify your need/desire for compression based on what you feel is lacking in your current sound and/or what you want to achieve with the pedal. Then spend some time reading bongomania's ovnilab site - there's a reason it is linked (multiple times) in every thread inquiring about comps. Then browse his list to get some ideas on top picks and cheap options, once you've decided on the type of compression you want/need. I think it will go a long way in narrowing down what could be a lengthy search. It will also ensure that you understand how to dial in a compressor once you decide on one.

Finally, I think videos can be of some use in comparing how certain compressors color, shape, and fatten your sound if that's the desired result. On the other hand, if you are looking for subtle compression and limiting it will be much harder to get a feel from videos and clips due to the variations in gear, levels, recording, etc. In this case, the ovnilabs reviews are especially helpful in selecting one so you can sit down with it and explore the capabilities.
Good luck!

Well said and very accurate IMO
I would also recommend this current thread:
Testing Compressors: Cali, Smoothie, Empress, Diamond, Keeley, FEA, Darkglass, Doc Lloyd, JHS & more

 

[jlbbassist]

I like my xotic sp compressor simple to use and on the cheap side think i picked it up for around 120 new

 

[Sunset Shalom]

I like my xotic sp compressor simple to use and on the cheap side think i picked it up for around 120 new

The SP is nice and transparent, I really love it for some stuff. Also nice that it runs up to 18v though I didn't notice a huge difference and have it at 9v for now as I only have 1 18v output and a few pedals that sound good at 18v.