Compressors are the chameleons of the pedal world. Sure, they can smooth things out, but shift them around your signal chain and they’ll morph into ambience shapers, lo-fi makers, and volume tamers. The fun starts when you stop following the “right” order.

Let’s explore how placing your compressor in different spots can unlock fresh and exciting tones.

After a Reverb

The great thing about compressors is that they can do interesting things at different points in a signal chain. When we recently spoke to Gab from Jagwar Ma, he told us he puts his compressor last to “sum your final sound through compression as a way of levelling all the different fx”. This is a pretty common application, though not the go-to for most guitarists – most would place theirs first. As with any pedal placement, experimentation is definitely encouraged; it’s a great way to discover unique tones.

Putting a compressor after a reverb pedal is super fun. Not only does it amplify the reverberated signal and increase its sustain, making it extra cavernous, but it allows you to control the reverb with your picking in really interesting ways. As you pick, the attack transient reduces the reverb signal for a moment, which allows what you’re playing to cut through the ambience, even with a large amount of reverb. When as soon as the attack transient diminishes, the reverb takes off. This gives you a really nice harmony between what you are playing and the ambience.

Kevin Parker from Tame Impala uses this technique and it’s central to his guitar tone. You can hear the effect pretty clearly on the Live Versions recording of Desire Be, Desire Go, particularly in the breakdown.

As a Volume Control

If you have a loud amp but rarely get a chance to crank it past 2, a compressor might be super useful to you. Turn your amp up a little louder than you would usually do, then set the volume to where you need it to be using the compressor’s level control. This will allow your amp to open up a little more, but still be at a volume that won’t torture your neighbours. Yes, you could do this with any boost pedal or an overdrive, but the dynamics of the compression is a welcome bonus at low volumes.

With a Chorus/Vibrato Pedal

One pedal I’ve always wanted to get but have never got around to buying is the Zvex Instant Lo-fi Junky, which is a compressor and chorus/vibrato combined. A match made in heaven, especially if you’re a fan of warped vinyl sounds.

The way that compressors cut highs can impart a lo-fi quality to your signal, and when you throw some chorus or vibrato on top, it creates a wonderfully warped, vintage vibe that’s perfect for adding character and texture to your sound

If you’re keen to visit the studio and try out our huge pedal collection, experiment with new sounds, or just get some gear advice, give Radi a shout at radi@noisemachines.studio or ring 0405 709 131. We’d love to help you find your vibe.

Related Reads

• Explore Our Pedal Collection
  Discover the wide range of pedals at our studio and find the perfect fit for your next sonic adventure.