Apart from a tuner, a compressor is one of the top utility pedals guitarists can get their hands on—and oftentimes one of the most nebulous in terms of sound and function. Simply put, compression smooths out the dynamic range of your signal. For guitar players, that means delicate fingerpicked passages come up in volume and wailing lead lines are kept under control. The best compressor pedals “squeeze” your signal, adding sustain and promoting a consistent level, whether you’re digging in hard or only grazing the strings. Introducing a compressor to your signal chain helps polish your overall tone, and, with the right settings, notes even seem to leap from the fretboard in an inspiring new way.

Table of Contents

What Does Each Control on a Compressor Pedal Do?
Where Does a Compressor Go in My Signal Chain?
Comparing the Top Compressor Pedals
The Best Compressor Pedals of 2024
   BOSS CP-1X Compressor
   Behringer CS400 Compressor/Sustainer
   J. Rockett Audio Designs Airchild 660 Compressor
   Keeley Compressor Plus
   MXR M102 Dyna Comp Compressor
   ROSS Electronics Compressor
   Strymon Compadre Dual Voice Compressor & Boost
   TC Electronic Forcefield Compressor
   Universal Audio UAFX 1176 Studio Compressor
   Universal Audio UAFX Max Preamp & Dual Compressor
   VOX Valvenergy Smooth Impact Compressor
   Wampler Ego Compressor
   Wampler Ego 76 Compressor
   Warm Audio Pedal76 FET Compressor
   Xotic SP Compressor
Conclusion

What Does Each Control on a Compressor Pedal Do?

Compression in every form—stompbox, outboard hardware or software plug-in—shares a similar set of parameters, though the nomenclature and feature set you’ll find in some guitar pedals occasionally deviates from the norm. On a basic level, essential compression settings control how much gain reduction is applied to the signal, as well as how quickly the compressor initially “grabs” the input versus when it lets go. Using the right pedal, you can dial in a stiff, squashed sound with extra grit and volume, a fluid chicken-pickin’ tone or a natural, always-on ambience to gently enhance note definition and clarity. 

The tonal effect of a quality compressor pedal can be subtle or dramatic, and you’re encouraged to experiment with extreme settings to understand how it operates. With that in mind, the following are primary functions you’ll encounter on your journey with compressor pedals.   

• Threshold: When the input level surpasses this decibel value, the signal will be compressed. For instance, a threshold of –10dB tells the compressor to kick in whenever the input signal exceeds this chosen ceiling.  
• Ratio: Determines the amount of gain reduction applied to signals exceeding the threshold, expressed as input to output level. A ratio of 2:1 outputs 1dB for every 2dB inputted. For example, 10dB in at 2:1 equals 5dB out. 
• Attack: The amount of time it takes for the compressor to apply gain reduction after the input signal surpasses the threshold. A fast attack rounds off transients, while a slower attack can retain a more natural sound and feel—and also increase punchiness. 
• Release: The amount of time it takes for the compressor to disengage after the signal falls back below the threshold. A slower release typically sounds smoother and helps increase sustain. A fast release may take on an audible pumping effect.

Where Does a Compressor Go in My Signal Chain?

Pedal order can be subjective, but there are logical practices to make the most of guitar compression in your effects chain. Typical placement for a compressor pedal is first, or very early, in the signal path—after your tuner and wah, but before overdrive, distortion or fuzz. A compressor both lowers loud levels and amplifies quiet ones, so positioning it early in the chain sends a strong, dynamically controlled signal through the rest of your effects. You’ll also avoid amplifying any noise in the path by placing it first.

Some guitarists prefer a compressor after their overdrive and distortion, which is great for tight rhythm and lead tones. It’s additionally a good spot if you rely on your guitar’s volume knob for cleaning up your sound. Since you aren’t slamming the first gain stage with a compressed signal, you retain the nuance to dial the drive back from your guitar. Plus, the compressor will make up for the volume difference between fully saturated and rolled-back tones.

Finally, there’s the studio approach to using a compressor pedal—that is, placing it later in the chain, or in your amp’s effects loop, to put some final polish on your sound. You’d likely use gentler settings to achieve that “mixed and mastered” vibe, where the compressor glues your entire signal chain together.

Comparing the Top Compressor Pedals

Compressor Pedal	Compression Ratio	Controls	Power Draw
BOSS CP-1X	Selectable	Level, Attack, Ratio, Comp	9VDC, 90mA
Behringer CS400	Fixed	Level, Tone, Attack, Sustain	9VDC, 30mA
J. Rockett Airchild 660	Fixed	Output, Tone, Blend, Threshold	9VDC, 20mA
Keeley Compressor Plus	Fixed	Sustain, Level, Blend, Tone, Release switch	9VDC, 10mA
MXR M102 Dyna Comp	Selectable	Output, Sensitivity	9VDC, 3mA
ROSS Electronics Compressor	Fixed	Level, Sustain	9VDC, 37mA
Strymon Compadre	Fixed	Boost, Boost EQ, Boost Type, Compression, Comp Type, Dry, Level	9VDC, 150mA
TC Electronic Forcefield	Fixed	Sustain, Attack, Level	9VDC, 10mA
Universal Audio UAFX 1176	Selectable	Input, Output, Attack, Release, Ratio	9VDC, 250mA
Universal Audio UAFX Max	Selectable	Preamp, Comp, Output, Attack, Ratio, Release	9VDC, 400mA
VOX Valvenergy Smooth Impact	Fixed	Output, Tube Gain, Comp	9VDC, 100mA
Wampler Ego	Fixed	Sustain, Tone, Attack, Volume, Blend	9V–18VDC, 14ma–22mA
Wampler Ego 76	Fixed	Tone, Attack, Release, Level, Blend, Compress	9VDC, 20mA
Warm Audio Pedal76	Selectable	Ratio, Attack, Release, Output, Input/Comp	9VDC, 125mA
Xotic SP Compressor	Fixed	Volume, Blend, Sustain/Comp toggle switch, internal Attack/Release dip switches	9VDC, 5mA

The Best Compressor Pedals of 2024

BOSS CP-1X Compressor

Why It’s Cool: The BOSS CP-1X utilizes proprietary digital processing to retain the purity of your sound, while still providing dynamic control.

Things to Consider:

• Digital circuitry reduces noise commonly associated with compressor pedals
• Handy onboard gain reduction meter for visual compression indication
• 18V input electronics offer extra headroom on the way in

Shop Now: BOSS CP-1X Compressor Pedal

On the outside, BOSS’ CP-1X compressor pedal appears to be a streamlined stompbox with easy-to-use controls, including standard compression parameters and a segmented LED strip indicating the amount of gain reduction. Under the hood, however, complex Multi-Dimensional Processing (MDP) technology analyzes various properties of an incoming signal, optimizes their sound in real time and outputs expressive tone retaining the fundamental character of your guitar playing.

The CP-1X is a popular, top-rated compressor pedal by our customers, averaging 4.86 stars at the time of publication. It also works great with extended-range instruments and acoustic-electrics. So, if you’re into natural, transparent compression, this pedal’s for you.     

Behringer CS400 Compressor/Sustainer

Why It’s Cool: The Behringer CS400’s Sustain knob simultaneously evens out levels and accentuates a note’s ability to expressively ring out.

Things to Consider:

• Virtually unbeatable price
• Ruggedly constructed for the long haul
• Works great on bass as well

Shop Now: Behringer CS400 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal

The Behringer CS400 compressor/sustainer pedal is among the most-reviewed picks on the list, yielding a formidable 4.63-star rating from 30 happy campers. Its intuitive interface, sonic integrity and budget friendliness tell most of the story. Between the Attack and Sustain controls, you’re able to decide how politely or aggressively to squeeze your signal, and the CS400 has enough versatility to cover light, transparent compression or serve up a completely squashed pumping effect. Makeup gain is applied via the Level knob, while a handy Tone setting adds or subtracts brightness on the treble end of the spectrum.

J. Rockett Audio Designs Airchild 660 Compressor

Why It’s Cool: The Airchild 660 compressor pedal by J. Rockett Audio Designs enhances harmonic richness and smooths out transients in a colorful way.

Things to Consider:

• Recognizable sonics typically found in pricey vintage hardware
• Threshold range offers substantial dynamic leveling without crushing the signal
• Studio-style compression in pedal format

Shop Now: J. Rockett Audio Designs Airchild 660 Compressor Pedal

J. Rockett Audio Designs’ Airchild 660 compressor pedal is based on the legendary Fairchild tube compressor first introduced in 1959. Balancing Output and Threshold knobs, you can achieve the iconic “growl” associated with these coveted studio processors, while a Blend control offers quick parallel processing for light or heavy compression. The addition of a tilt EQ setting lets you optimize the bottom and top end of your tone, too. This may be one of the rare compressor pedals that simply makes your tone sound and feel better—as such, it’s great as an always-on effect for many genres.

Keeley Compressor Plus

Why It’s Cool: The Keeley Compressor Plus helps your tone tastefully leap out in a mix, and also gives it an element of fun, easy playability.  

Things to Consider:

• Release switch tuned for active or passive pickups
• Sweetens your sound by pushing top-end harmonics
• 100% analog signal path

Shop Now: Keeley Compressor Plus Pedal

The Keeley Compressor Plus is another most reviewed, top-rated dynamics pedal on our site, with one reviewer stating, “It makes everything sound better.” Out of 57 total reviews, 96% of users would recommend the Keeley Compressor Plus to a friend. Internally, JFET circuitry powers this pedal, offering smooth, blooming sustain and tasteful compression players love. And since compressing a signal tends to round off a bit of high-end clarity, the Keeley includes a Tone control to add back some airy shimmer. Overall, the Keeley Compressor Plus is a solid choice if you crave transparency.

MXR M102 Dyna Comp Compressor

Why It’s Cool: Straightforward usability and a broad spectrum of sounds have made the MXR Dyna Comp a popular choice for decades.

Things to Consider:

• One of the first compressor pedals widely adopted by pro players
• Fixed fast attack and medium-slow release
• Offers highly consistent note-to-note volume

Shop Now: MXR M102 Dyna Comp Compressor Pedal

Originally released in 1972, MXR’s Dyna Comp is a no-nonsense compressor pedal promising tighter tones, singing sustain and the percussive, “clicky” sound associated with groovy funk strumming. Frankly, there’s nothing to it—between only Output and Sensitivity parameters, you can cover an impressive range of compression styles. For a lot of players—particularly those new to compression—simplicity might be the most desirable feature. The MXR M102 Dyna Comp excels at sounding great and being incredibly approachable. Far from transparent, it’s been a colorful addition to the pedalboards of Lowell George, David Gilmour, John Frusciante and Andy Summers, to name a few.

ROSS Electronics Compressor

Why It’s Cool: The current iteration of the ROSS Electronics Compressor maintains all of its old-school mojo for a new generation of tone chasers.

Things to Consider:

• Recessed knobs are harder to accidentally bump on stage
• Easily adjustable equalization via Vintage/Bright switch
• Original ROSS Compressor was inspired by the Dyna Comp

Shop Now: ROSS Electronics Compressor Pedal

Fans of vintage-style guitar compression may gravitate toward the ROSS Electronics Compressor, which is a faithful reproduction of the famous Era 2 “Gray Box” pedal from the ’70s, currently manufactured by JHS. Its circuit is based around an OTA chip, as many compression pedals are, so it has a tried-and-true dynamic envelope guitarists have dug for decades. The original Era 2 ROSS Compressor was essentially a modified Dyna Comp, and you may recognize the simplified control layout from above (Level and Sustain, here). There’s also a nifty side switch to engage Vintage or Bright modes depending on how much treble you need to cut through the mix.

Strymon Compadre Dual Voice Compressor & Boost

Why It’s Cool: Strymon’s Compadre encourages users to start their signal path with the best possible version of their tone by carefully shaping the front end.

Things to Consider:

• Two-in-one boost and compressor pedal
• Helps coax out the true, detailed character of your amp
• MIDI enabled for expressive parameter operation

Shop Now: Strymon Compadre Dual Voice Compressor & Boost Pedal

The Strymon Compadre combines studio-grade analog compression and boost circuits, implementing a tone they’ve described as similar to having your amp modified by a world-class designer. There are two distinct styles of onboard compression, including a smooth, transparent sound and a more aggressive, vintage flavor. The boost also provides both a clean or dirty push, and you’re able to balance the level of dry and wet signals to taste. If you’re searching for the ultimate front-end tone sculptor, the Compadre might be just the thing.

TC Electronic Forcefield Compressor

Why It’s Cool: The Forcefield by TC Electronic offers old-school compression ranging from subtle sustain to hard-knee squash.  

Things to Consider:

• All-analog circuitry delivers authentic vintage sound
• Level knob works like a boost with other parameters at zero
• Tough metal chassis fit for the road

Shop Now: TC Electronic Forcefield Compressor Pedal

From round and smooth to crisp and punchy, the TC Electronic Forcefield provides robust dynamic control with a vintage-inspired circuit. This popular compressor pedal comes highly reviewed and broadly recommended, thanks to its intuitive layout and budget-friendly price tag. The Forcefield is a surefire means to envelop your tone in warm, analog-style compression, helping players in rock, country, jazz and more find their sound.

Universal Audio UAFX 1176 Studio Compressor

Why It’s Cool: Universal Audio’s UAFX 1176 shrinks the revered studio processor down to pedal size in this meticulously accurate emulation of a legendary unit.  

Things to Consider:

• Single, Dual and Sustain settings for standard, series and parallel compression
• Performs the celebrated “all buttons in” mode for maximum crunch
• Aggressive, in-your-face character

Shop Now: Universal Audio UAFX 1176 Studio Compressor Effects Pedal

Universal Audio founder Bill Putnam invented the 1176 FET compressor, which debuted under the United Recording Electronics Industries (UREI) brand in 1967. Today, the powerful UAFX engine brings Universal Audio’s industry-renowned modeling technology to pedalboards. The UAFX 1176 Studio Compressor pedal is a top-to-bottom emulation of the ubiquitous FET limiting amplifier, heard on more hit records than any other dynamics processor in history. Sporting controls faithful to the original hardware, you can inject timeless character into your tone, from gentle squeeze to over-the-top, crunchy compression. The 1176 is known for its colorful, expressive punchiness, and the UAFX pedal version lives up to the ongoing hype.

Universal Audio continues to produce the studio hardware, in addition to incredibly accurate UAD plug-in emulations.

Universal Audio UAFX Max Preamp & Dual Compressor

Why It’s Cool: The UAFX Max by Universal Audio replicates a studio signal path, complete with preamplification and compression.

Things to Consider:

• UA 610 preamp drives dynamics section for unique tones
• Captures the best of stage and studio compressors in one pedal
• 1176 into an LA-2A is a go-to serial compression chain

Shop Now: Universal Audio UAFX Max Preamp & Dual Compressor Pedal

Put a Universal Audio 610 tube preamp, 1176 limiting amplifier, LA-2A tube-opto compressor and MXR Dyna Comp at your feet with the UAFX Max Preamp & Dual Compressor. This incredibly versatile pedal lets you stack any combination of its three compressor models two at a time. Combined with the detailed, three-dimensional grit of the 610 preamp section, you can explore an endless variety of tones to optimize the front end of your rig. As with all UAFX pedals, too, the Control app unlocks a whole new tier of customization beyond the pedal’s interface alone.

VOX Valvenergy Smooth Impact Compressor

Why It’s Cool: VOX’s Valvenergy Smooth Impact is the first vacuum tube-based compressor in pedal form, generating one-of-a-kind tone and feel.

Things to Consider:

• Gritty and textural compression flavors
• Nutube functions as a buffered bypass when pedal is off
• Easy, flattering playability and lots of tube goodness

Shop Now: VOX Valvenergy Smooth Impact Compressor Pedal

The VOX Valvenergy Smooth Impact compressor pedal effectively harnesses KORG’s Nutube technology for old-school compression with the unmistakable character of vacuum tubes. This compact unit features three modes—Vintage, Natural and Sagging—mimicking the unique compression and saturation behavior of tubes, in addition to offering guitarists a distinctly natural playing feel. Turn up the Tube Gain, adjust the Comp and you’re on your way to vibey, organic leveling with ease.

Wampler Ego Compressor

Why It’s Cool: The Wampler Ego Compressor is a transparent enhancer for guitarists seeking organic dynamic control that flatters their existing tone.

Things to Consider:

• Wet/dry Blend knob for studio-style parallel compression
• Volume control serves as makeup gain or a clean boost
• Can be powered with 18V for greater input headroom

Shop Now: Wampler Ego Compressor Pedal

The Wampler Ego Compressor can be applied multiple ways, giving your sound an always-on lift, fattening up your tone, flattening out your dynamics or strictly operating as a clean boost. Built in the United States with top-tier components selected for their sonic fidelity, Ego is lauded for its inherent transparency and the unmistakable feel it imparts on every note. Country players love it, but it’s truly for everyone who wants to enjoy the benefits of compression, while still retaining your hard-earned tone and nuanced expression.

Wampler Ego 76 Compressor

Why It’s Cool: The Wampler Ego 76 pedal nods to the 1176’s renowned tone and heritage, while creating its own identity in the process.

Things to Consider:

• Philosophically based on a complete studio signal chain with an 1176 inserted

• Energetic tonality with lots of upper-end brilliance
• Top-mounted input and output jacks

Shop Now: Wampler Ego 76 Compressor Pedal

It’s no surprise there are many tributes to the famous and formidable 1176 studio compressor, and the Wampler Ego 76 captures its essence marvelously. The Tone knob, especially, emulates the energy of the original 1176 hardware by brightening up the signal. Attack and Release parameters are also on deck, providing crucial control of the compression’s character, and a Blend knob adds the flexibility of parallel processing. The Ego 76 is Brian Wampler’s interpretation of a legendary piece of outboard gear, condensed to a guitar pedal.

Warm Audio Pedal76 FET Compressor

Why It’s Cool: If you want the sound and look of a famous FET compressor on your pedalboard, the Warm Audio Pedal76 delivers on all fronts.  

Things to Consider:

• A hint of overdrive when pushed hard is reminiscent of the originals
• Separate D.I. output provides flexibility for gigs and recording
• Switch between true or buffered bypass based on your rig

Shop Now: Warm Audio Pedal76 FET Compressor Pedal

Warm Audio—reputed for replicas of iconic recording equipment—ventured into the guitar pedal game in 2020, and in addition to reproducing pedalboard classics, has made innovative strides toward studio-grade sound with a smaller footprint. The Pedal76 FET compressor captures the analog sweetness, responsiveness and even the look of the UREI 1176, designed to slide onto your pedalboard and conjure the sonic magic of a studio phenomenon. Featuring a custom CineMag output transformer, a discrete, all-analog signal path and a vintage-style VU meter, the Pedal76 matches the intangible mojo of the original.

Xotic SP Compressor

Why It’s Cool: Xotic’s SP Compressor is a deceptively versatile mini pedal with easy-to-use controls and plenty of sonic expression.

Things to Consider:

• Three-way toggle determines compression style
• Volume knob offers up to 15dB of boost
• Internal dip switches set attack, release, low-pass filtering and pad

Shop Now: Xotic SP Compressor Pedal

The SP Compressor by Xotic is based on the ROSS pedal from the 1970s, but it comes in an ultracompact mini pedal form factor to integrate with even the most crowded boards. Our customers appreciate how easy it is to use, how great it sounds and how well it interacts with other effects in their signal path. A perfect 100% of reviewers would recommend this highly rated compressor pedal to a friend, whether they’re using it for a little bit of always-on squeeze or more distinct, stylistic compression. The Xotic SP Compressor is a hit—no doubt about it.

Conclusion

For guitar and bass players, compression can have a major impact on overall tone, but it also changes the feel of your playing. To many, that alone is worth the price of admission—the best compressor pedals instill confidence when melodies and chords pop with precision. If you’re satisfied with your tone but it needs a little zhuzh, compression is the way to go. Try it yourself at your local Guitar Center’s pedal table, or chat up a Gear Adviser to narrow the right choice for the sound you’re seeking—a solid compressor pedal can be a game changer.