Compressors are effect pedals that reduce the dynamic range of a signal, making the loud parts quieter and the quiet parts louder. This can be used to even out the sound of a guitar signal and make it sound more consistent.
Compressors can be used before or after an amp sim. There are pros and cons to both approaches.
Compressor Before Amp Sim
Using a compressor before an amp sim can help to even out the sound of the guitar signal and make it sound more consistent. This can be helpful if you are playing with a lot of different dynamics, as it will help to prevent the amp sim from being overwhelmed by the loud parts of your signal.
Compressors can also be used to add sustain to a guitar signal. This can be helpful if you are playing lead guitar or if you want to create a more expressive sound.
However, there are also some drawbacks to using a compressor before an amp sim. One drawback is that it can make the sound of the amp sim less dynamic. This can be a problem if you are looking for a natural, unprocessed sound.
Another drawback is that it can make the sound of the amp sim less responsive. This can be a problem if you are playing with a lot of different dynamics, as it will make it more difficult to get the desired sound.
Compressor After Amp Sim
Using a compressor after an amp sim can help to even out the sound of the amp sim’s output. This can be helpful if you are not happy with the dynamic range of the amp sim’s output.
Compressors can also be used to add sustain to the amp sim’s output. This can be helpful if you are playing lead guitar or if you want to create a more expressive sound.
However, there are also some drawbacks to using a compressor after an amp sim. One drawback is that it can make the sound of the amp sim less natural. This is because the compressor will be compressing the sound of the amp sim’s output, which can make it sound less like a natural guitar sound.
Another drawback is that it can make the sound of the amp sim less responsive. This is because the compressor will be compressing the sound of the amp sim’s output, which can make it more difficult to get the desired sound.
Which Approach is Best?
The best approach to using a compressor before or after an amp sim depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a natural, unprocessed sound, then you may want to consider using a compressor after the amp sim. However, if you are looking for a more consistent sound with added sustain, then you may want to consider using a compressor before the amp sim.
Ultimately, the best way to find out which approach is best for you is to experiment with both and see which one you prefer.
Here are some additional tips for using a compressor with an amp sim:
- Use a high-quality compressor pedal. A good compressor pedal will give you more control over the sound of the compression.
- Start with a small amount of compression. It is easy to overdo it with compression, so it is a good idea to start with a small amount and then adjust it as needed.
- Listen carefully to the results. As you are compressing the sound, listen carefully to the results and make sure that you are getting the desired sound.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. The best way to find the right compressor settings is to experiment with different settings and see what sounds good to you.
