Best compressor???

Testing Compressors: Cali, Smoothie, Empress, Diamond, Keeley, FEA, Darkglass, Doc Lloyd, JHS & more

 

There is no such thing as "best compressor". What works for you might not for others.

Since you seem new to compressors I would suggest the Keeley because it is very easy to dial in.
Since you are from Finland I would suggest the Darkglass to support your local economy.
Since everyone seems to love the Diamond Bass Jr (not a single negative review online!) you should consider it too. The Cali76 from Origin Effects falls into that category as well.

And since money does not seem to be an issue for you (nice gear sir), why not buying them all?

 

Compressor Reviews

 

I'd agree with that.

 

The Keeley would be my first choice based on the reviews. It offers user-adjustable threshold and ratio. The price tag won't break the bank, either.

Seeing anything else on the secondhand market?

Riis

 

boughton monocomp if you can get one

 

That question is not that relevant (all due respect), it all depends what sound you want to achieve.
Many players use their compressor as an always on effect and may switch it off when they feel it is not suited. They might want more emphasis on dynamics on specific occasions for instance, or the compressor may not combine well with other effects.

Out of the 3 models you listed I would suggets the Keeley. All 3 have got good reviews but IMO the Keeley is the easiest in use. Its led metering is very convenient, especially if you are new to compressors. The Darkglass also has this function but it also has 3 types of compression while the Diamond does not have it.
If you are not happy with it you could sell it quick without losing too much money.

I personally use the Keeley (always on! For Rock/ Funk). My first compressor was the MXR M87 which I was not able to use properly, I did not know how to match attack and sustain. I then tried the Keeley and it was a big relief, I still have and use it! Problem is it got me addicted to compressors, now I have too many of them

 

For one thing I want the Rothwell Love squeeze and for another I have the Fairfieldcircuitry Accountant.

 

Keeley Bassist as an always-on transparent compressor, and lately I have been very impressed by the Analogman Juicer; squashy and not transparent at all but sooo very awesome on my Stingray BFR fretless...

 

Of those listed, and I’ve owned all three, I’d go with the Hyperluminal first and Keeley second. But, my personal favorite after trying a lot of compressors is the FEA DE-CL.

 

Ovnilab Smoothie.

 

For passive Fender type bass's and if you want simplicity over flexibility(options)....the Diamond is hard to beat IMO. I keep going back to it.

 

I use a LA-2A clone after an 1176 clone, thus reproducing the classic studio compressor/limiter chain. Though, my tubes are not part of the compressors, but follow in my tube preamp.

 

This thread is not about what is your favorite compressor but what s the best choice for its author!
Naming a compressor without either elaborating nor taking into account the questions asked does not help much.

 

The same OP posted a 'what pedals should I buy' thread earlier this week that has multiple people saying there's no 'best' anything, it's all relative. . There also happens to be a really good resource on compressors that resides pinned to the top of the effects forum that has lots of in depth reviews.

But feel free to try to keep policing the replies of others.

 

I knew someone would feel offended haha.
You look quite scary on your pic so I don't wanna mess with you.
I'm out! --> []