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Small/tiny/narrow/slim compressor pedal

Shardik

Shardik

May 24, 2011
1,716
808
Halden, Norway
#1
Hi

I am a big fan of small sized pedals. I have several Mooers, and love the compact size.

But when it comes to compressor pedals I am rather picky. I have read a lot over at Ovnilab (great site), but haven't been able to find a conclusive answer when it comes to small sizes. Here are my preferences:
  • As the thread says: Small size. Mooer size are perfect IMHO (but from tests I have read, the comps are not all that great).
  • Clean sound - I have a Joyo JF-10, but to my ears, it actually sound like it is breaking up when fed a powerful signal. Since a compressor is all about handling dynamics, this is flawed to me.
  • Keep tonal balance (i.e. bass) - Yes, I know that bass often represents the most powerful part of the signal, and gets naturally compressed first, but then I'd prefer to keep the tonal balance, not only dampen the deepest bass.
  • Flexible control - One knob compressors just doesn't do it for me. If the Joyo wasn't muddling it up, I think I'd like the controls on it, but I am flexible about the exact controls.
  • Robust - I know there are trade offs here in small sizes, but I still like my pedals to feel and be robust.
  • Budget - I am an amateur, and take no pleasure in exclusivity or status due to high price. Sound and build is everything.
So, given those preferences, what tiny compressor pedal do you good people recommend?

It is probably not possible to achieve everything, but I'd love to hear about recommendations and experiences.

Disclaimer: I have tried to search for this, and found nothing, so please do not flame me if the subject has been discussed already.
 
#3
A fairfield Circuitry Accountant compressor nails most of your requirements. $150 new, and can be found in the classifieds for $110-120.
Check back at the Ovnilab site for his review ofthis compressor.
The reason I say this pedal meets most of your needs is because it can introduce a break up/OD sound at certain settings, which is something you didn't want. I do believe you can set it clean also. I used to use one, but I used it as a "dirty boost/mild OD" type of pedal, so that's why I can't speak to how clean it can be set.
 
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#7
I also wasn't going to mention the Accountant because it can get a little "hairy" if pushed.

But, to the OP, check it out! There's an amazing amount of control with one knob and two switches. I've NEVER had an always on pedal and couldn't find a compressor I liked till I met the Accountant. Now I can't really imagine playing without one.
 
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#8
I must admit that the Accountant sound like a fun pedal. But grit is not really what I'm after right now.

I have done my fair share of DIY, and that Afterlife looks interesting. If it can be modified with some attack control it may be a contender.
 
#9
Ok, I've got nice info on a couple of pedals so far. They are rather exotic to me (DIY or with fun coloration).

I'd also like experiences from more mainstream/budget pedals.

What about Mooer, Hotone, Malekko? (I admit Hotone looks fragile to me)
I have googled, and I see Fender has a Micro comp (but why does it have an EQ knob?).
I also see the same controls in an unknown "monoprice" brand here: Invalid Link Removed

Others?
 
#10
Shardik said:
Ok, I've got nice info on a couple of pedals so far. They are rather exotic to me (DIY or with fun coloration).

I'd also like experiences from more mainstream/budget pedals.

What about Mooer, Hotone, Malekko? (I admit Hotone looks fragile to me)
I have googled, and I see Fender has a Micro comp (but why does it have an EQ knob?).
I also see the same controls in an unknown "monoprice" brand here: Invalid Link Removed

Others?
Click to expand...
Mooer Yellow
Malekko Comp
Hotone KOMP

see review above by the compressor guru
 
#14
Admittedly most of my favorite comps are at least 1590b or bb sized. The Cali is clearly a winner at 1590b sized. At 1590a sized - I would ask Max is he would consider making another Micro-Comp.

The Accountant is super cool from all accounts but you do need to like what it does as a package. I do love the Xotic stuff but I have never heard the comp and I am always a bit suspicious of Ross style designs.
 

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