Phaser & Compressor pedal questions?

[Maxi Funkl]

I started my first pedal board this summer (I'll post pics later)
I still have a few things to work out my board is definitely a work in progress.
Pre-amp/DI still needs to be resolved. But a Broughton SV-Pre is inbound.

1.) I bought a TC Electronics Blood moon phaser Price, top jacks, analog, & 3 control knobs more versatile than your standard single knob phaser. My issue with this pedal is the volume spike when its engaged. So my question to TB I'm considering either EHX Bad Stone or MXR M290 mini phase 95. not trying to break the bank for a phaser and not really sure I need all the versatility of the higher end phasers out there. Both of these are just slightly more the the Blood Moon. Or are there other pedals in that price range to consider?

2.) I bought a Keely Bassist compressor 1st comp I've ever owned I'm very happy with it. I'm just wondering is there something I'm missing because it seems a lot of you TB'ers use Empress or Cali76. Empress price point would be more in line with what I'm willing to upgrade to. But since I'm so darn new to compressors is there enough notable value in options and tone that I should upgrade? The typical you don't know what you don't know sitiuation.

 

[triviani]

Both are rabbit holes on their own.

The Keeley is a good compressor so I"d not "upgrade" unless you are looking for something specific to improve, like more controls or a different flavour. The difference is not going to be substantial, I'd spend some time with the Bassist to get to know it first.

 

[n!k]

If you're new to effects, there's a dynamic online where people can get hyped on something new or different but this usually doesn't mean anything was wrong with the previous thing everyone was hyped on before. We just like effects, haha. Keeley Bassist is the compressor on my board, it's a great machine.