Compression...Did I Just Discover A Favorite Type?

[lowfreqgeek]

You might want to try an LA-4; it's a relatively simple comp that works well for bass. Another option you might try is a Dominator II, which is a multiband compressor.

Another great option (and the one that convinced me to use a compressor after 30 years of not) is a Union Tube and Transistor LAB, which is sort of an emulation for an LA-4 type compressor. I love what it does to fatten up my sound without getting in the way or killing my dynamics, unless I want it to. Probably the most "transparent" comp pedal I've tried, as well. I never feel like it alters the fundamental tone of my instrument, even with relatively heavy compression. And it's very quiet.

 

[Low Down Brown]

Am I the only one who enjoyed his compressor vortex/journey?!

I did...so I'm there with you. I typically go for the ones that color your tone a bit, so to me they all have a different flavor and impart their own special vibe.

Another great option (and the one that convinced me to use a compressor after 30 years of not) is a Union Tube and Transistor LAB, which is sort of an emulation for an LA-4 type compressor. I love what it does to fatten up my sound without getting in the way or killing my dynamics

+1 for the UT&T LAB. That two knob wonder is just gooey goodness in a simple pedal format.

 

[PotsdamBass8]

Just FYI, there is an LA model in the Helix Stomp. I (and many other people) are not crazy about the fact that there's no metering on the Helix compressor models, but I do enjoy using that model on the default settings. It's very easy to use even without metering. And of course Line 6 and Ampeg are in the same family now so...

 

[krispn]

Had an Effectrode Pc-2A which I really enjoyed for the big fat vintage thing it did with my p bass but it got stolen. Stumbled upon a big box Cali 76 in a local shop and thought I’d try it to see what the fuss was and walked away with it. Solid metering easy to dial in and the TX version I now use just enhances the sound of the bass while adding just enough comp to keep me where I like. Im not saying my choices are right for anyone else but with my current rig they’re working out real nice for me and the gigs I play.
Try some out and see what it does for you. It doesn’t have to be a vortex

 

[NoSlapForYou]

This thread may have talked me into the Opto Comp. It being so reasonably priced is definitely a selling point. I'm not even sure I want a compressor, so shelling out $200 for a used Diamond or one of the other highly acclaimed ones isn't that appealing.

 

[SteveC]

I have been off the compressor for a while now. I think my playing is pretty darn consistent. Not perfect, but I don’t know that it should be.
I was actually told by someone that my playing was too perfect. I should try to rough it up a bit. Not play lines exactly like the recording. Now, I do respect this persons opinion, and I know I’m not that perfect, but it does make me wonder about things like compressors.

Like anything, you need to use it wisely. But I remember a session at a conference a long time ago, when CD’s were just becoming popular and affordable. The guy played an old vinyl record (Steely Dan) and showed the frequency or whatever displayed on a screen. Then did the same with a CD version.it was AMAZING how much was cut out with the compression. Sounded so different.

Just something to think about.

 

[packhowitzer]

The key for me with compression was being able to blend the compressed signal with dry signal. Prior to having that feature, most comps I owned were frustrating for me to use. I really like the compressor I have now (which has this feature). If I ever branch out, the blend feature would be tops on my list. Just my .02

 

[40Hz]

We could analyze and speculate endlessly. But if you found something that works for you, that’s all that matters really. We could get into
the differences between a tube vs VCA vs optical comp, and the differences between optical implementations as far as tone goes. But who really cares? Suffice to say the Ampeg gives you the response and timbre you’re looking for plus that little something else that hits your personal sweet spot. And more importantly, it gets the job done.

You could go down the rabbit hole like some of us - or call it a day. If t’were me, I’d stop there. Because it sounds like you found your match. And that’s all that matters…unless you want an expensive new hobby.

I personally like the sound you can get with Ampeg’s Opto compressor. It leaves the low end pretty much alone. There is some very mild reining in of the highs. Not a lot. But it’s definitely there and (to my ears) rather tasteful sounding and musical. There’s a certain “bigness” it gives you along with the usual things any comp does. for you. The Opto comp is one box I could see as being a good candidate for the “always on” category. It’s definitely bass guitar oriented but also works well with some darker bluesy sounding guitar. Works well with fretless too. To paraphrase a quote from Ashleigh Brilliant: “It may not be totally perfect, but parts of it are excellent.

Lots to like. And for not a lot of money. Congrats Jim! You found you champion.

 

[JimmyM]

Just FYI, there is an LA model in the Helix Stomp. I (and many other people) are not crazy about the fact that there's no metering on the Helix compressor models, but I do enjoy using that model on the default settings. It's very easy to use even without metering. And of course Line 6 and Ampeg are in the same family now so...

Oh trust me...I wouldn't object in the least to trying a Helix But with my effect needs reduced to mild overdrive, cab sim, and possibly compressor (still haven't decided on that for sure) seems like a bit of overkill. Plus Ampeg's the new kid on the block and I'm not exactly Sting

I have been off the compressor for a while now. I think my playing is pretty darn consistent. Not perfect, but I don’t know that it should be.
I was actually told by someone that my playing was too perfect. I should try to rough it up a bit. Not play lines exactly like the recording. Now, I do respect this persons opinion, and I know I’m not that perfect, but it does make me wonder about things like compressors.

Like anything, you need to use it wisely. But I remember a session at a conference a long time ago, when CD’s were just becoming popular and affordable. The guy played an old vinyl record (Steely Dan) and showed the frequency or whatever displayed on a screen. Then did the same with a CD version.it was AMAZING how much was cut out with the compression. Sounded so different.

Just something to think about.

Thought about it for 10 years! However, in the early days of CD, there were a lot of crap ones because of shoddy mastering designed for LP's, so I don't know that things that apply in the 80's apply now. And I'm certainly not looking to dial out all imperfection either!

The key for me with compression was being able to blend the compressed signal with dry signal. Prior to having that feature, most comps I owned were frustrating for me to use. I really like the compressor I have now (which has this feature). If I ever branch out, the blend feature would be tops on my list. Just my .02

Frank at FEA told me the same thing. Would consider it if one dropped in my lap somehow, otherwise just don't want to spend the money.

 

[AlvarHanso]

A nice and inexpensive opto-pressor - y'know, so ya can compare - is the BBE; look for the yellow and red one without the 'stache.

I find it a little quicker than the Ampeg, but also mebbe a little noisier.

+1 Loved mine. Had a power issue with it after about 7 years, so outside the 5 year warranty window, and needed a stereo compressor when it came time to replace. Now have the EHX Platform, which is nice, but wish I had just looked harder for another of the classic yellow and red BBE OptoStomp. Two knobs and a passive/active switch that I used to use for a boost on occasion.

 

[JimmyM]

We could analyze and speculate endlessly. But if you found something that works for you, that’s all that matters really. We could get into
the differences between a tube vs VCA vs optical comp, and the differences between optical implementations as far as tone goes. But who really cares? Suffice to say the Ampeg gives you the response and timbre you’re looking for plus that little something else that hits your personal sweet spot. And more importantly, it gets the job done.

You could go down the rabbit hole like some of us - or call it a day. If t’were me, I’d stop there. Because it sounds like you found your match. And that’s all that matters…unless you want an expensive new hobby.

I personally like the sound you can get with Ampeg’s Opto compressor. It leaves the low end pretty much alone. There is some very mild reining in of the highs. Not a lot. But it’s definitely there and (to my ears) rather tasteful sounding and musical. There’s a certain “bigness” it gives you along with the usual things any comp does. for you. The Opto comp is one box I could see as being a good candidate for the “always on” category. It’s definitely bass guitar oriented but also works well with some darker bluesy sounding guitar. Works well with fretless too. To paraphrase a quote from Ashleigh Brilliant: “It may not be totally perfect, but parts of it are excellent.

Lots to like. And for not a lot of money. Congrats Jim! You found you champion.

Didn't notice the reduction in highs, but it's not like I use tweeters so it's N/A to me. I do think it's a pretty darn good pedal, for sure. And I'm really not looking to score an LA-2A or go on a comp expedition...that was just a gag I just wanted to know if me liking the Opto and the RCL set to opto was a coincidence or a real thing.

 

[SactoBass]

For other pedal options I recently became aware of the Effectrode PC-2A tube compressor pedal. It is supposed to be a true analog optical compressor in pedal format, which I didn't think existed. I haven't tried it yet, but I plan to get one soon.

Biiiiiiiig +1 on the Effectrode PC-2A pedal. I have one and I am *VERY* happy with it!

@JimmyM: here's a 2015 review of the Effectrode PC-2A pedal:

[This invalid link has been removed]

I know you said you didn't want to get drawn into a comp vortex (do you feel the tug yet? ), but since you mentioned the LA-2A in your OP, I thought it was *relatively* safe to comment on the Effectrode PC-2A which is a clone of the LA-2A in pedal format.

 

[PotsdamBass8]

Oh trust me...I wouldn't object in the least to trying a Helix But with my effect needs reduced to mild overdrive, cab sim, and possibly compressor (still haven't decided on that for sure) seems like a bit of overkill. Plus Ampeg's the new kid on the block and I'm not exactly Sting



Thought about it for 10 years! However, in the early days of CD, there were a lot of crap ones because of shoddy mastering designed for LP's, so I don't know that things that apply in the 80's apply now. And I'm certainly not looking to dial out all imperfection either!


Frank at FEA told me the same thing. Would consider it if one dropped in my lap somehow, otherwise just don't want to spend the money.

Just sayin, a stomp is 600 before coupons and could do all of those jobs plus much more...

 

[Owl in the Dark]

I've been using the Ampeg Opto-Comp for about a year and have been digging it, nice, warm, and round sound like all things Ampeg.

My previous combo had a decent if simple comp that helped when playing. (Unfortunately, I don't think we have any compression on our congregation's mixing boards. I hope we can get our act together and change this.) When I got an Ampeg BA210, I needed to find a comp (I had a Digitech dual-band that's great for adding clarity but normally sucks out too much low end, and seemed artificial sounding to me). The MXR seems awesome, but the Opto-Comp sounded warmer and rounder which matches more of what I want for our mix of mainly '60s and '70s pop/rock tunes (we're UU, the band's called Creedless Creekwater Revival). I normally have it set light, Compression and Release about 10:30.

It sounds nice and warm and doesn't seem to have any noise. It brings out a few harmonics in the sustain as expected. I normally always have it on. When I play with a small Combo (bass, drums, piano, and sometimes guitar) and choir, I often have it off, because in those cases it can make the bass dominate.

When I first discovered compression, I never wanted to do without, but that was partially to make up for limitations in my amp—adding clarity to a 15“ Peavy combo with no horn, or adding bottom to a 12/6.5/horn Carvin combo. The Digitech was nice with the 15 but not the Carvin three-way. And it was noisy.

But I'm happy playing without, too, especially for solo practice so I can pay attention to my dynamics. My more recent Fender Precision has all the attack and sustain I need without any comp, so that helps. But considering our FOH isn't using compression, and we often have subs, and my P Bass is a fiver, yea, compression is a good idea. And I feel like light compression will be a good idea to bring in some warmth to any solid state amp, since as I understand it tubes naturally compress which is part of what we like about them. (So do split-coil and humbuckers I believe, relative to single coils and especially the ceramic single coils I was using on my Carvin B5.)

On the rare occasion when I bring out a pick, I'm definitely grateful for it. I think my Tech 21 VT Bass amp emulator compresses a bit as well, but I don't use it much at all anymore since I got the Ampeg combo, 'cause I just love the sound of that on its own, totally flat for the most part.

 

[40Hz]

Didn't notice the reduction in highs, but it's not like I use tweeters so it's N/A to me. I do think it's a pretty darn good pedal, for sure. And I'm really not looking to score an LA-2A or go on a comp expedition...that was just a gag I just wanted to know if me liking the Opto and the RCL set to opto was a coincidence or a real thing.

I don’t think you can fake what you like when it comes to compression. So I’d say optical really is your thing. And it’s a real thing, not just a word.

Optical compressors (the ones I can afford and am familiar with at least) are characterized by a certain laid back quality. They respond a little less quickly. And they let go a little more slowly. So the end result is that they’re smooth sounding for lack of a better description. They’re not all edgy and in you face like some VCA designs can get.

I personally like smooth. I like tubes. I still like a cab with a good 15 in it. (Remember those sweet EV SROs?) I’ll seldom dime the tone knob on my bass. I don’t slap. I play with a fairly light touch and fingerstyle mostly. And I like Ampeg’s Opto Comp. If I didn’t enjoy ditzing around with other compressors so much, I could see myself happily just owning and using an optical compressor when I used a compressor.

 

[JimmyM]

Just sayin, a stomp is 600 before coupons and could do all of those jobs plus much more...

You don't think I'm going to pay full price, do you?

Biiiiiiiig +1 on the Effectrode PC-2A pedal. I have one and I am *VERY* happy with it!

@JimmyM: here's a 2015 review of the Effectrode PC-2A pedal:

[This invalid link has been removed]

I know you said you didn't want to get drawn into a comp vortex (do you feel the tug yet? ), but since you mentioned the LA-2A in your OP, I thought it was *relatively* safe to comment on the Effectrode PC-2A which is a clone of the LA-2A in pedal format.

Between you and Potsdam, it's almost like you want me to go broke!

Does look like a winner, but I am going to take 40hz's advice and be happy I finally found one that I can tolerate, and got it free to boot. Plus I can slap a rechargeable 9v in it and use it for 3 or 4 gigs at least. Between that and the VT Deluxe (which runs almost 200 hours with a battery), I'm set for this band...until I work in the upright, and then I'll have to go wireless and go back to a PS.

 

[JimmyM]

But I'm happy playing without, too, especially for solo practice so I can pay attention to my dynamics. My more recent Fender Precision has all the attack and sustain I need without any comp, so that helps. But considering our FOH isn't using compression, and we often have subs, and my P Bass is a fiver, yea, compression is a good idea. And I feel like light compression will be a good idea to bring in some warmth to any solid state amp, since as I understand it tubes naturally compress which is part of what we like about them. (So do split-coil and humbuckers I believe, relative to single coils and especially the ceramic single coils I was using on my Carvin B5.

I don't know about the pickups thing, but while compression can certainly be a side effect of tube amps, I've found that if you don't run the tubes to the edge of distortion, they are probably the most uncompressed amps I've ever played through.

On the rare occasion when I bring out a pick, I'm definitely grateful for it. I think my Tech 21 VT Bass amp emulator compresses a bit as well, but I don't use it much at all anymore since I got the Ampeg combo, 'cause I just love the sound of that on its own, totally flat for the most part.

Definitely the VT compresses when you add drive into the equation, but while I used to think I heard it in the clean sound, Tech 21 says no.

 

[JimmyM]

I don’t think you can fake what you like when it comes to compression. So I’d say optical really is your thing. And it’s a real thing, not just a word.

Optical compressors (the ones I can afford and am familiar with at least) are characterized by a certain laid back quality. They respond a little less quickly. And the let go a little more slowly. So the end result is that they’re smooth sounding for lack of a better description. They’re not all edgy and in you face like some VCA designs can get.

I personally like smooth. I like tubes. I still like a cab with a good 15 in it. (Remember those sweet EV SROs?) I’ll seldom dime the tone knob on my bass. I don’t slap. I play with a fairly light touch and fingerstyle mostly. And I like Ampeg’s Opto Comp. If I didn’t enjoy ditzing around with other compressors so much, I could see myself happily just owning and using an optical compressor when I used a compressor.

This is good to know, and probably encapsulates why I'm respponding to the Opto and RCL and not so much other comps I have.

 

[TrevorOfDoom]

I've been eyeballing those for a bit, but haven't pulled the trigger yet.
I had such a great response to the Demeter OptoComp that I don't know that the Ampeg pedal could match it.
And i found I don't really like the blend knob when using a compressor.
I either want it on or off.
Old school style.
It also helps that I don't ever compress very much.
There's some good threads on here and some quality resources about comps that should make a compressor-based rabbit hole slightly easier to navigate, if you do go that way.

But honestly, as has been said, just stick to what you already have if you like it that much.

 

[panzerfaust]

my mxr m87 fulfill all my need,....but opto comp is good too,....