Compressor Survey

[jimk]

One of the questions I've read over and over again from guitarists just discovering or re-discovering the Byrds/Roger McGuinn sound is what compressor to use. So just out of curiosity, I thought I'd submit this poll question for your interest and discussion.

There are others out there on the market, I know. But I could only list 10 options.

JimK

[kiramdear]

I'm only doing recording these days, no gigging.

My use of compression is little if any at the amp, a Behringer tube-hybrid model. Usually none. I take a line out to my mac and add compression when shaping the part, in Logic. When and if I get out with this stuff I'd use a completely different rig, and I'd be inclined to get a Janglebox to go with my future AC30. So this is two votes, I guess, one live and one in the studio.

[jimk]

I've been captivated by the idea of using two amps with my 360. That's in the future, to be sure. I just bought a Janglebox that I'm pretty certain I'll be very happy with. That thought has ocurred to me that it might be fun to have a second compressor, a less expensive one like the Behringer to process the signal from the bridge pickup.

Or maybe no compression at all on the bridge pickup. This all seems to be a gadget freak's delight.

JimK

[paologregorio]

I have a low budget Ibanez Soundtank compressor, but I don't really use it a whole lot, even with my 12 string. I usually just use a combination of the amp and OD/distortion to get my sound, or if I want something cleaner, just the amp. Sometimes I'll use the compressor, but even my low budget Ibanez compressor seems to do the job to my ear's satisfaction. I'll probably replace it with something more high end when the day comes that it starts to break down, but that will be out of desire for something that's made out of better components, rather than a quest for that boutique sound. Then again, I'm usually not deliberately aiming for the Byrds 12 string sound; I like that sound, but I also like the 12 string stylings of later bands such as The Church and Echo and the Bunnymen.

[deaconblues]

I use a DOD Milk Box with my 330, really helps to sharpen the sound on leads. My 360/12 was usually jangly enough on its own!

[jps]

When I do need a compressor I use my Aphex Punch Factory.

[blueflamerick]

I just got an Analogman BiCompressor after waiting a year and a half for it. It was totally worth the wait & $. It's a Ross and Orange Squeezer clone in one pedal. You can use both at the same time.

[jimk]

interesting stuff. Keep 'em coming.

JimK

[JakeK]

I have the Invisustainer...

In other words, I have no compressor, so I can't vote. My 660/12 has enough sustain to last me until I get a Janglebox, though

[bitzerguy]

I use a Diamond compressor, from Diamond Pedals in Nova Scotia. It has an EQ control that is very versatile.

[Ric O'Sound]

When I do need a compressor I use my Aphex Punch Factory.

+1
The Punch Factory is a great compressor. Highly recommended.

[shamustwin]

For recording 12 string I also like to go direct using the Line 6 Bass Pod, Bassman setting, lots o' compression.
JB live usually.

[jps]

Jim, what you need to do is buy all the compressors we recommend and do a test. Let us know the outcome, please.

[goofyfoot]

It's the JangleBox for me. Works well with my Martin D12-28 twelve-string, too. The "bright" mode is sublime, just killer. Regards.....Goofyfoot.

[fatcat]

Multiple choices would have helped my as I use a Janglebox on the 660-12 and the built in thingy in my 370-12RM.

And a Punch Factory for bass.