In this article we’re going to be discussing the best guitar compressor pedals that exist in October 2023.
Although often neglected, a compressor pedal is one of the essential ingredients of a proper guitar sound. Simply, it’s hard to imagine a volume-balanced sound without this effect, which controls the dynamic range of your instrument. It makes you sound better in many ways, whether it’s about technique, sustain, or something third.
What is an Compressor Pedal?
A compressor pedal is responsible for the dynamic range of your guitar. Namely, its main task is to protect your tone from extreme peaks and makes your sound smoother. Basically, you use this pedal to set a certain dynamic range, or threshold volume, some would say. So, once you play a note too loud, or too quietly, the compressor will engage and put the played note in the determined volume range.
These pedals also let you set the way your compressor works. For example, you can set the pedal to make these dynamic corrections quickly or slowly, set their longevity, value etc. Although there are many parameters to set to get the desired compression, most of today’s pedals are designed to be simple and intuitive. So, one knob can control more of these parameters and make the operation more intuitive.
Most pedals do this extremely well, but there are also manufacturers that offer stompboxes with more complex controls, for more detailed tone shaping. In any case, all of them work great and the actual offer of good compressor pedals is pretty big on today’s market. Here are some of our picks:
Best Compressor Pedals
Boss CS-3
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The CS-3 has been around for a long time and it proved itself as one of the best values for money in the category of compressor pedals. The reasons are numerous, starting from the broad range of tone-shaping options. Thanks to the company’s well-known four-knob layout, it’s super-easy to dial desired tones and trust us, there are plenty of them you can get from this small unit – from mild to squashy compression. You can use this unit an excellent compressor to enrich your tone, as an effect, or just as a boost pedal.
As we’ve just mentioned, there is a four-knob configuration that lets you dial a wide array of tones. The Attack and Sustain knobs offer typical controls for a pedal of this type, allowing you to easily set the desired level of compression and sustain. Also, Boss installed the Tone knob, so you can accentuate a certain frequency range and get more colorful tones. It is also worth mentioning that the pedal is characterized by surprisingly low noise for this price range.
The pedal is simple and compact, in a typical Boss fashion. This also means that the build quality is excellent, with a super-solid hosing that promises years of exploitation. The pedal runs either on batteries or a 9V power supply, which is sold separately
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
Reasonably priced, this pedal coquettes with both budget and boutique pedals and could be that sweet sport for a large number of players who look for a capable, good-sounding compression.
Keeley Compressor Plus Pedal
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The latest version of Keeley’s compression pedal comes with a few enhancements and now works better than ever. Inside its attractive housing, you will find a pedal design that offers great quality in a combination with an impressive range of tone-shaping options. At the same time, the pedal remains simple and easy to use.
The four-knob configuration lets you control the most important compression parameters of your electric guitar tone. Of course, there is the Attack knob, which determines the type and the amount of compression you want. The Level knob is another typical feature for this kind of pedals, while the Blend knob lets you balance dry and wet signals. Finally, there is the Tone control, with which you can boost high frequencies and do fine settings of your tone.
Speaking of the tone settings, it’s important not to forget the small toggle switch in the middle, which allows you to optimize the sound depending on whether you’re using humbuckers or single coils. Also, the pedal features a true bypass, to preserve your original tone when disengaged. The pedal runs on a 9V power supply, which is sold separately. Optionally, you can use a single 9V battery. In both cases, this pedal is characterized by a minimal power usage of just 5mA.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
Anyone who is looking for a pedal with great sound quality and a high level of flexibility but doesn’t want to sacrifice simplicity and easiness of use should seriously consider this product.
MXR Dyna Comp M102
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With its simple but effective products, MXR has taught us so many times that less is more. The good-old Dyna Comp is a perfect example, with its super-simple two-knob design that allows you to dial the right amount of compression with ease. Whether you need a boost for your solo sections or you want to make your clean tones sound richer, it’s hard to go wrong with the Dyna Comp. After all, this is one of the most popular compressor pedals on the market for a reason and it’s not a surprise that it’s been used by so many renowned guitar players.
Typically for the pedal maker, the unit features pretty compact dimensions, which make it very pedalboard-friendly. Besides compact dimensions, the pedal also features just two knobs – Output and Sensitivity. This practically means that you dial compression with just one knob (which is super convenient), while the Output knob works like a typical volume control.
The pedal runs on a 9V power supply, which is sold separately, while you can also use a single 9V battery. Besides the standard M102 version, this stompbox compressor comes in a few more iterations, such as the M291 model, which comes in an even more compact and pedalboard-friendly housing. On the other hand, the M228 is a more upscale version of the pedal, with more controls and tone-shaping possibilities.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
Anyone who needs a good-sounding compressor but doesn’t want an overly complicated layout would find this pedal an excellent choice.
JHS Whitey Tighty
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From subtle to massive compression – this pedal is capable of doing many things and covering a wide array of tones. At the same time, it remains simple and very compact, which makes it a great solution for players who want to save space on their pedalboards. There is a lot to like about this tiny unit, starting from pretty impressive sonic features.
The JHS Whitey Tighty is a compact but also pretty flexible pedal. It features three knobs, all quite typical for a pedal of this type. Of course, there is a typical Volume knob, as well as a Compression knob, which lets you set the desired amount of compression. Finally, there is the third, the Blend knob, which is a pretty useful tool that lets you find the sweet spot by combining dry and wet signals. It’s also good to know that the Whitey Tighty features a true bypass, so your tone will remain preserved when the pedal is disengaged.
With 1.37″ in height, 1.85” in width and 3.7” in depth, this is one of the smallest compression pedals on the market. However, tiny dimensions don’t stop this unit from being super-solid and ready for heavy exploitation. It is a rugged, handwired pedal that doesn’t just sound great but also promises longevity. The Whitey Tighty runs on a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
If you’re looking for a studio-quality pedal but don’t have much room on your dashboard, this is the pedal for you. If you need different types of compression but don’t want something too complicated, this is also the pedal for you.
Wampler Ego
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Whether you want to add more dynamics to your playing, get a better sustain, or simply make your tone sound richer, the Wampler Ego will help you a lot. This is a pretty capable pedal that comes with more controls than you would usually see on a compressor pedal. At the same time, it remains easy to use, while delivering pretty impressive sound quality at the same time.
There are five knobs in total and all are common among compression pedals. Of course, Sustain and Attack are probably the first you’ll notices, as they let you set the type and amount of compression you want. Also, there is an equally-important Tone knob, which lets you play with the EQ and accentuate high frequencies, which are particularly sensitive when it comes to compression. Finally, the lower section of the pedal includes two more knobs – Volume and Blend, so you can set the output and find the perfect balance between wet and dry signals.
The pedal features great overall build quality and seems solid, while you may also count on a true bypass, which will preserve your original tone when the Wampler Ego is turned off. If this five-knob layout is too complicated for you, or it simply can’t fit your pedalboard, there is also a mini version of this pedal, with three knobs and compact dimensions.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
This pedal is a logical choice for players who need both great sound quality and a high level of versatility. This high-quality pedal is very flexible but also easy to live with.
Fender The Bends Compressor
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A while ago, Fender came up with a new series of pedals that brought a combination of classic effects and smart technical solutions. The Bends is one of those pedals. Although basically nothing more than a typical compression pedal, this unit brings a few extra features, that make tone shaping even more convenient. The pedal is flexible but easy to use. Most importantly, it sounds great.
With Fender’s typical brushed-aluminum housing, The Bends compressor pedal looks very nice. Also, the controls are very transparent, with four knobs that provide a broad range of sonic options. Of course, there are typical drive and level knobs, which take control of things like compression amount, input and output level etc. We particularly like the Recovery control, which determines the pedal’s character. With this knob, you get a pretty impressive dynamics control without losing the natural response of your instrument.
Finally, there is the Blend knob, which helps you find the perfect mix of wet and dry signals. There are a few more touches we like, including the classic Jewel light of vintage Fender amps, as well as small LED lights on control knobs for more convenient use in dark venues. The pedal runs on a 9V power supply or you can use batteries instead.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
If you are looking for a versatile compression pedal with good sonic features, at a reasonable price, The Bends should definitely be shortlisted. Whether you are a professional or just an enthusiast, this pedal would bring a lot of positive changes to your guitar tone.
Our Number One Choice
The MXR Dyna Comp is the first choice of so many guitarists, so why would we be any different? Simply, MXR nailed this pedal and offers great quality and impressive flexibility in such a simple and small package. There are many things to like about this pedal, starting from easy operation, compact dimensions and a pretty reasonable price.
Buy On AmazonOur Premium Choice
The Wampler Ego is our premium choice not only because of its premium price. Simply, it comes with premium features that you won’t get from other pedals from the list and that primarily refers to the opportunity to have detailed control of the most important compression parameters. At the same time, the pedal remains intuitive and easy to use, offering easy access to a variety of enhancements to your guitar tone. If it fits your budget, search no more – the Wampler Ego would be a worthy addition to your pedalboard without a doubt.
Buy On AmazonBest Value For Money
With a price tag that’s closer to budget products and sound quality that’s relatively close to boutique pedals, the CS-3 is the best value for money on our list. It offers very good sound quality and a pretty impressive level of flexibility. At the same time, it remains pretty affordable, which is a rare thing with today’s prices and inflation. Also, do not forget that we are talking about a Boss product that comes from a company with a top-tier reputation for making bullet-proof pedals that can run for ages.
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If you found this roundup of the best guitar compressor pedals both enjoyable and informative. Comment below your own review or any questions you may have regarding this product. If you have an questions recommendations of guitar pedals that your would like to see us review, also leave a comment and we will get them covered for you.
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FAQ – Best Compressor Pedals for Guitarists
H2: What is a compressor pedal and how does it work?
A compressor pedal is a device that reduces the dynamic range of your guitar’s signal. It smooths out the volume spikes and boosts softer notes, resulting in a more even and controlled sound. Compressors work by automatically adjusting the gain of your signal based on a set of parameters such as threshold, ratio, attack, and release.
What are the benefits of using a compressor pedal?
Compressor pedals offer several benefits for guitarists. They can enhance sustain, even out the volume of your playing, and make your guitar sound more consistent. Compressors can also help control unwanted noise and improve the clarity of your playing, especially when using high-gain settings or playing complex chords.
What are the different types of compressor pedals available?
There are several types of compressor pedals available, including:
- Optical Compressor: These pedals use a light source and an optical sensor to control the compression. They are known for their smooth and transparent sound.
- FET Compressor: FET (Field-Effect Transistor) compressors are often favored for their fast response and ability to add color and character to the sound. They can provide a more aggressive and gritty compression compared to optical compressors.
- Multi-Band Compressor: These pedals divide the guitar’s signal into multiple frequency bands and apply compression independently to each band. This allows for more precise control over the dynamics of different frequency ranges.
What are some recommended compressor pedals for guitarists?
Here are a few highly regarded compressor pedals for guitarists to consider:
- Ego Compressor: Known for its versatility and transparent compression, the Ego Compressor offers a wide range of controls, including blend control and a three-way switch for different compression modes.
- Diamond Compressor: Inspired by 1960s-style FET compressors, the Diamond Compressor provides a smooth and natural-sounding compression. It features internal dip switches for additional tonal options.
- Xotic SP Compressor: This compact deluxe pedal offers a blend of vintage and modern compression tones. It has a wide gain reduction range and a tonal control for shaping your sound.
- TC HyperGravity Compressor: With its multi-dimensional processing and toneprint capabilities, the HyperGravity compressor provides complete control over your compression settings. It offers versatile compression options and a gain-reduction indicator.
How do I choose the best compressor pedal for my needs?
When choosing a compressor pedal, consider the following factors:
- Playing Style: Different compressors excel in different genres and playing styles. Consider whether you need subtle transparent compression or more aggressive compression for heavier playing.
- Controls and Features: Look for pedals with controls that suit your preferences. For example, if you want control over attack and release times, ensure the pedal provides adjustable parameters.
- Pedal Size: Consider the available space on your pedalboard. Some compressors come in compact sizes, while others may require more room.
- Budget: Determine your budget range and look for options that offer the best value within that range.
Are there any compressor pedals suitable for acoustic guitar?
Yes, there are compressor pedals specifically designed for acoustic guitars. These pedals often have features that cater to the unique needs of acoustic players, such as adjustable attack and release times to preserve the natural dynamics of the instrument. Some popular options include the Cali76 and the Universal Audio LA-2A.
How does a compressor pedal affect the tone of my guitar?
Compressor pedals can affect the tone of your guitar in different ways. Some compressors are transparent and aim to preserve your guitar’s original tone, while others may add color or character to the sound. It’s important to choose a compressor that complements your playing style and desired tonal characteristics.
How should I incorporate a compressor pedal into my signal chain?
The placement of a compressor pedal in your signal chain can vary depending on personal preference and the specific needs of your setup. A common approach is to place the compressor pedal after any overdrive or distortion pedals but before modulation or time-based effects. Experiment with different positions to find the best placement for your desired sound.
What are some recommended settings for a compressor pedal?
Recommended settings for a compressor pedal depend on your playing style and the specific pedal you’re using. As a starting point, set the threshold to a level that engages the compression when your playing dynamics exceed that point. Adjust the ratio to control the intensity of the compression, and fine-tune the attack and release times to suit your playing style and musical context. Experimentation and careful listening are key to finding the perfect settings for your needs.
Last update on 2023-10-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API