Overdrive + Compressor order in signal chain

[Turn Em Loose]

I prefer my compressor before the overdrive. I don't need much dynamics when I use an overdriven sound, and overdrive already compress the signal, anyway. I find the sound of the overdrive more focused, under control, and it sustains for days (think about Gary Moore).

But sometimes I simply disengage my compressor before using an overdrive.

This. I like a consistent, light OD tone so just a hair of comp (MXR M87) before a OD is my preference.

 

[willsellout]

I prefer comp into distortion/OD. My comp is dual band and so like having the ability to kick on the high side and change the flavor of my distortion.

 

[Rocksolid]

Crazy thing is, you can turn stuff off. OD essentially gives some compression so you can turn the Comp of when running OD IMO. I have 2 main boards - I have one each way. The one with Comp first the OD is a little less with the Comp on, I turn it off, dig is and volume changes are minimal but the dirt changes. With Comp second I find the OD a little rounded, but I usually turn the comp off with my OD engaged.