What is a compressor pedal for?

A compressor pedal evens out the dynamics of your playing by reducing the volume of your loudest notes and increasing the volume of your quietest notes, making for more even playing. Some players use it as a stylistic choice, such as country guitar players.

What guitarists use compressor pedals?

Compressor pedals are a staple in certain genre's and famous guitar players such as John Frusciante, Noel Gallagher, The Edge and Eric Johnson employ the use of Compressor pedals in their playing.

What types of guitar players need a compressor pedal?

A compressor pedal is a must have for anyone who mainly uses a clean tone. This is why they are very popular among funk, country and pop players. They are less popular among players who use a lot of distortion, such as in hard rock or metal.These players get their compression from the distortion itself.

What are the easiest compressor pedals to use?

If you are looking for ease of use, look no further than the MXR Dyna Comp or Xotic SP Compressor. These demystify compressors and make it very easy to dial in great tones.

Where should I put the compressor in my effects chain?

Compressors usually go either before or after overdrive pedals. If you use it before an overdrive pedal, it will keep your gain very consistent. If you use it after, you’ll still be able to get different levels of gain depending on how hard you play, but the compressor will even out the volume before hitting your amp.

Should a compressor pedal be at start or end of the pedal chain?

Compressor pedals should be placed in the start of your pedal chain.

Should I always use a compressor pedal?

Compressor pedals are not essential, for example if you play with an overdrive or distortion pedal, you won't need an additional compressor as your tone is already being compressed.