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Simple Two-Knob Compressor?

#21
Roland GR 88 said:
Don't be mystified by how a compressor works. They're really very simple, it's just the million and a half opinions on how, when and where to use them that muddle things up.
Here's a link from a recording standpoint but the basics are the same for pedals.
The Beginner’s Guide to Compression
Click to expand...

True enough. But only up to a point IMO.

On a very basic level they’re all very simple in their workings and similar in their operation. But the devil is in the details. Very real and significant differences emerge in the actual implementation of the basic idea behind audio compression. And there are places where it’s not purely a difference in personal opinion. Some types of compressors, their placement in the signal chain, and the settings used are going to be clearly superior to others in a given situation.

Which is why I think it’s very important to clearly identify what your sonic goals are first before you even start looking at compression as a possible solution. Otherwise you could be letting yourself in for a long and frustrating (and probably expensive!) journey. ;)
 
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#23
tradryan said:
Curious why there's never a recommendation for the Ehx bass preacher? I've never used one but it appears very simple and inexpensive. Just acquired a Keeley, couldn't be happier
Click to expand...

It’s inexpensive - but based on my own experiences when I tried one, it’s also pretty noisy.

Noise is the single biggest dealbreaker when it comes to compressors AFAIC. Which is why I personally wouldn’t recommend getting one.
 
#28
Jamvan said:
Find yourself an old BBE Opto Stomp (yellow with red letters). Great compressor for not a lot of money. It needs to be this version because BBE made changes to it in later years that ruined a great product. Can be had used for $50-$75. If money isn't an issue, I agree with @mmbongo, go with the Diamond if can.

View attachment 3621033

If you're looking for simple, don't fall for TC's Spectracomp 1 knob pedal. Requires a significant understanding of how compressors work in order to set it up for your use. See my review and go in with eyes wide open.
Click to expand...

In my opinion , the BBE opto comp is my least favorite compressor next to the pigtronix. To each their own. It seemed to almost distort the signal when I used it, and made very loud popping noises with the button
 
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#29
DeepFriedBass said:
In my opinion , the BBE opto comp is the worst compressor next to the pigtronix. To each their own. It seemed to almost distort the signal when I used it, and made very loud popping noises with the button
Click to expand...

Agreed. That's why I mentioned picking up the very early model of the OPTO Stomp (different pedal) as it is REALLY good and kicks butt all over their later variants (which are mostly garbage).

I finally went with a OVNIFX Smoothie Opto and couldn't be happier.
 
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#31
T-boneParish said:
You're probably looking for a compression pedal. However, if you're open to rack-mounted compression, I am in love with the mojo I'm getting from my LA-2A optical compressor clone. Just control the peak reduction and output gain. Easy peasy. Buttery warm tube goodness. Specifically, I'm using this one, which you can pick up for about 3 bills, used.
|KT-2A|Klarkteknik|P0CEA
Click to expand...

Woah. That seems killer. I always wondered about racking a distressor or LA2A. Rack comp. Is the way to go for serious tone melting.
 
#33
If a rack unit is OK, it's hard to be a dbx 160 for simple and excellent results with bass guitar.
Back in the days of audio tape, these things were on a million records.
Really 2 knobs, threshold (when does it act) and ratio (how much it compresses).
The other knob just adjusts output volume and the over easy switch is a simple push button that I usually don't use. Plus easy to flip with very little loss if you change your mind.
DBX 160x | Stephen's Gear Locker
 
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#37
Jamvan said:
If you're looking for simple, don't fall for TC's Spectracomp 1 knob pedal. Requires a significant understanding of how compressors work in order to set it up for your use. See my review and go in with eyes wide open.
Click to expand...

Not true. You download the app and pick from a wide variety of presets created by artists who explain their particular tone and provide a sound sample. Then you beam the setting from your phone to the compressor via your pickups. It’s idiot proof.

Should you choose, you can take a deeper dive into the settings via your PC or mobile. But that’s completely optional, and most people consider it a feature, not a problem. I love the presets I’ve used and have never once done the deep dive.
 
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#39
I use an Electro Harmonix bass preacher. Super simple to use. Inexpensive. Sounds great.
EBASSPREA-P.jpeg
 
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