13 best bass compressor pedals

Bass compressor pedals are a type of effects pedal designed specifically for bass guitars. These pedals are used to control the dynamic range of the bass guitar's signal by reducing the volume of loud sounds and boosting the volume of softer sounds.This process is known as compression and is commonly used to even out the volume levels of a bass guitar's notes, resulting in a more consistent and smooth sound.

Here are some key points about bass compressor pedals:

Dynamic Range Control: The primary function of a bass compressor pedal is to control the dynamic range of the instrument. It does this by reducing the amplitude of loud notes or spikes in the signal, making them quieter, and then increasing the volume of quieter notes, making them louder. This helps to maintain a more consistent and balanced sound.
Sustain Enhancement: Compressor pedals can also enhance the sustain of bass notes. By compressing the signal, they can make the notes sound fuller and last longer, which can be especially useful for creating a more expressive and smooth bass guitar sound.
Threshold and Ratio: Most bass compressor pedals allow you to adjust parameters such as threshold and ratio. The threshold sets the level at which compression begins, while the ratio determines how much the signal is compressed once it exceeds the threshold. Higher ratios result in more aggressive compression.
Attack and Release: These pedals often have controls for adjusting the attack and release times. The attack time determines how quickly the compressor responds to a signal exceeding the threshold, while the release time controls how long it takes for the compression to stop after the signal falls below the threshold. These settings can greatly influence the pedal's response to your playing style.
Blend and Output: Many bass compressor pedals come with a blend control, allowing you to mix the compressed signal with the dry (uncompressed) signal. This can help you retain some of the natural dynamics of your playing. The output control sets the overall volume level of the compressed signal.
Use in Pedalboard Chains: Bass compressor pedals are typically placed early in the signal chain, usually after your instrument but before other effects like distortion or modulation pedals. This helps to ensure that the compressor can work on a clean and consistent signal.
Studio and Live Performance: Bass compressor pedals are used both in the studio and during live performances. They are valuable tools for bassists looking to achieve a consistent and controlled bass tone in various musical contexts.
Popular Brands: There are many reputable brands that manufacture bass compressor pedals, including Boss, MXR, Electro-Harmonix, Aguilar, and more. Each brand may offer different features and tonal characteristics, so it's essential to try out different pedals to find the one that suits your preferences.

In conclusion, bass compressor pedals are essential tools for bassists looking to control dynamics, enhance sustain, and achieve a more consistent and balanced tone in their playing. They come with various controls to fine-tune their operation and are widely used in both studio recording and live performance settings.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best bass compressor pedals on the market

Caline CP-45 Pressure Point Bass Compressor Pedal True Bypass with Aluminum Alloy Housing

Caline

Based on 41 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The CP-45 Bass compressor is an original self-developed product by Caline. The ATTACK and SENSE functions give it a strong compression, transparent tone and a clear articulate sound production. This versatile Bass Pedal can also be used to give extra volume and penetration when required.

Specifications:

Material: Aluminum Alloy

Signal Input: 1/4″Monaural Jack

Signal Output: 1/4″Monaural Jack

Power Supply: DC 9V power adapter(center negative) or 9V battery(neither included)

Current consumption: 50mA

Item Size: 9.5 * 12 * 3.5cm / 3.7 * 4.7 * 1.4in

Item Weight: 338g / 11.9oz

Package Size: 14 * 12.5 * 7cm / 5.5 * 4.9 * 2.8in

Package Weight: 417g / 14.7oz

Note:

Please use the power adapter whose polarity is positive pole outside and negative pole inside. Otherwise, the product may not work properly.

Package List:

1 * Effect Pedal

1 * Battery Cable

This Compressor pedal is picky power supplies, it works only with isolated power supplies, please don't use power adapters, otherwise it will make noise.
Effect pedal specially designed for bass guitar application.
The ATTACK and SENSE functions give it a strong compression, transparent tone and a clear articulate sound production.
Aluminum alloy shell,durable and stable,True Bypass Design, no tone loss.
Powered by AC adapter or Battery (neither included), A battery cable included.

User questions & answers

Question:	Is there a product manual for this device anywhere
Answer:	Yes.
Question:	Will this sound ok on a non-bass guitar
Answer:	I place my picks in the top pocket that unzips horizontal. There is no pocket specifically for picks that I have found. Love this guitar case.
Question:	Can you please confirm this pedal works with a power adapter or with a 9V battery
Answer:	YES- Great Bag. Bought 2.

JOYO JF-10 Dynamic Compressor Pedal Effect Re-create Classic Ross Compressor Pedal for Electric Guitar Bass Sustainer Pedal

Based on 108 reviews Check latest price

The JOYO Advantages: over 14 years of brand history, strong technical teams, many innovative patents, electroacoustic core technology, guide design of music masters, winning the love of global fans, inspiring people's music dreams.
JF-10 dynamic compressor features a re-creation of the classic ross compressor, with very low noise. True bypass design minimizes tone loss.
With three adjustment knobs, sustain, attack and level. The attack adjustment is designed for bass or high-output active pickups to better suit the instruments.
Aluminum alloy casing with stoving varnish finish, simple design and interface, quality components, sensitive knobs.
What You Get: JOYO JF-10 compressor pedal, detailed operating instructions and excellent customer service.

User questions & answers

Question:	can a battery fit inside the compressor pedal
Answer:	Yes, you need 9v 6F22 battery, thank you for the question.
Question:	Is this item easy to use
Answer:	Yes, you can find a lot of videos on Youtube, search JOYO JF-10 Dynamic compressor.
Question:	Is there any low end loss when used on bass
Answer:	Hello customer, we recommend this pedal for electric guitar but if you want to use it to the bass, the low end will loss a bit, however, you can add the volume from EQ of the amplifier. Thank you!
Question:	does it come with a power cord
Answer:	Hello customer, the gears is sold directly by JOYO and the original package is not with the cord, just as the other brands in the market, if you want the power cord, you can also purchase in our store, thank you!

Product features

Product Details

MXR M87 Bass Compressor Pedal w/ 4 Cables

MXR

Based on 59 reviews Check latest price

Product description

MXR M87 Bass Compressor Pedal

The MXR M87 lets you have complete command on the compression function thanks to the release, attack, ratio, output, and input controls. The built-in Constant Headroom Technology (CHT) provides plenty of headroom, letting your compress the sound without compromising its clean tone. For hassle-free setting up, the MXR has 10-LED gain-reduction meter as a guide. Plus, M87 uses True Hardwire Bypass to keep the low end tight and clean. IT works well without impacting your tone negatively.

TECHNICAL SPECS:

Bypass: True Hardwire
Gain: 31dB
Compression Ratio: 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1
Attack Time: 20 to 800-microsecond
Release Time: 50-millisecond to 1.1-second
Frequency Response: +/-1dB, 20Hz~20kHz
Impedance: 1 MOhm Input, 600 Ohm Output
Max Level: +14dBV Input, +8.5dBV Output
Noise Floor: -90BV A-wtd
THD: More than 0.5%
Power Source: 9V Battery or AC Adapter
Dimensions: 2.5 x 4.5 x 5.5"
Weight: 0.84 lb

10 gain-reduction status LEDs
Attack, release, ratio, input, and output controls
CHT Constant Headroom Technology for clear, clean performanc
Lightweight, tough aluminum housing
Pedalboard-friendly footprint

User questions & answers

Question:	What type of cables does this b=pedal come with? I was just curious if it comes with a quarter inch speaker cable
Answer:	Kelly, here are the dimensions I got when I measured. Length is 43.5". Width is 17". Depth is between 4 and 4.5". Hope this helps!
Question:	Es original el Pedal
Answer:	yes it will fit a jumbo acoustic, really nice bag, bought it for our grandson other guitar that he left with us, so we had to bring it home, did not want to just carry the guitar without storage to keep it safe.

JOYO JF-10 Dynamic Compressor Pedal with Very Low Noise re-Creation the Classic Ross Compressor for Electric Guitar & Bass True Bypass

JOYO

Based on 585 reviews Check latest price

Product description

JOYO JF-10 Dynamic Compressor Guitar Effect Pedal

Guitar Effect Pedal
Dynamic Compressor
Profession Guitar AMP and Effect Pedal
CE and RoSH Certify

User questions & answers

Question:	Can this be used as a boost
Answer:	no
Question:	What are the specific power supply requirements
Answer:	It's powered by DC 9V ( Adapter or Battery) with negative centre.
Question:	Do you have to use a screwdriver to replace the battery
Answer:	No, its a clip-on battery cover.. Doesnt hold on very well. I have it on a velcro pedal board with a power supply but the bit of velcro i put on the battery cover will stay on my board with the cover when i move my the joyos around.
Question:	Has anyone used this pedal on a bass? Does it pass the low end well
Answer:	Yes. Me. Sounds great.

MXR M87 Bass Compressor Effects Pedal BUNDLE with AC/DC Adapter Power Supply for 9 Volt DC 1000mA, 2 Metal-Ended Guitar Patch Cables AND 6 Assorted Dunlop Guitar Picks

MXR

Based on 18 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Take your favorite studio compressor to the stage with the MXR Bass Compressor. A complete array of controls-Attack, Release, Ratio, Input, and Output-makes it easy to fine-tune your sound, from subtle peak limiting to hard squashed compression effects. Its CHT Constant Headroom Technology gives you plenty of headroom and clear performance. This totally transparent compressor allows your full dynamic range to shine through until your signal reaches the compression threshold, which is indicated by the ten, highly visible gain-reduction status LEDs. It's all packed into a durable, lightweight aluminum-housing pedal that's the size of a Phase 90.

Bundle includes 6 assorted Dunlop picks, 2 patch cables, and 9V power supply
10 gain-reduction status LEDs
Attack, release, ratio, input, and output controls
CHT Constant Headroom Technology for clear, clean performance
Lightweight, tough aluminum housing

Donner Mini Effect Chain Alpha BASS Guitar Effect Pedal Compressor Bass Drive Chorus Effect Pedal

Based on 87 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Product Introduction

Alpha Bass is an effects chain which combines three types of effects in one, including a opto-voiced compressor, a flexible bass drive, and a lush chorus. It is characterized by its portable size, user friendly form factor and stunning tone.

Specifications

1.Input: 1/4″Monaural Jack.

2.Output: 1/4″Monaural Jack.

3.Power Supply: DC 9V (Negative in the center ).

4.Working Current: 100mA.

5.Dimensions: 196(D)*64(W)*45(H)mm.

6.Material: Aluminum alloy

7.Weight: 360g

8.XLR Jack:XLR male jack,for connecting to mixers.

Precautions

·Environment:

1.Do not use the pedal in high temperature, high humidity, or subzero environments.

2.Do not use the pedal in the direct sunlight.

·Please do not dissemble the pedal by yourself.

·Please keep the manual for future reference.

Package included:

1x Donner Mini Effect Chain Alpha BASS Guitar Effect Pedal

1 x Pedal Adapter

1 x User’s Manual

1.Convenient compact size
2.Buffer bypass provide transparent tone,LED indicator shows the working state.
3.Three types of guitar effects in one chain
4.Classic-voiced bass drive with wide tonal range
5.Suitable for any music style.

User questions & answers

Question:	Is this item pink
Answer:	That's what I did. I'm using for an old, large epiphone acoustic and it fits perfectly

Product features

Alpha Bass Features

1.CHORUS Mode Knob: Control the Chorus effect level.
2.DRIVE Mode Knob: Control the Bass Drive effect level.
3.COMPRESSON Mode Knob：Control the Compressor effect level.
4.Power Supply：DC 9V(Negative in the center).
5.Input & Output Jack：1/4’’ mono audio jack.
6.True Bypass：True bypass for zero tone coloration.
7.LED Light：LED indicator shows the working state.
8.Full metal shell：Aluminum-alloy>
Note :Pedal Adapter is included in the package.

Ampeg Opto Comp Bass Compressor Pedal White, Opto-Comp

Ampeg

Based on 52 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Ampeg Opto Comp Analog Optical Compressor pedal utilizes an optical circuit to deliver smooth, vintage style compression to add headroom and sustain to your guitar or bass. Dial in a fast, subtle style to control peaks or crank up the compression to add a unique character. Featuring a roadworthy all-metal chassis and true bypass switching, the Opto Comp Optical Compressor brings your tone to new heights.

Delivers smooth, vintage style compression
Dial in the perfect sound with compression and release controls
Output control maximizes Sustain and makes up for heavy compression
True bypass, analog design with incredible signal-to-noise ratio

Product features

Opto Comp Analog Optical Compressor

The Ampeg Opto Comp Analog Optical Compressor pedal utilizes an optical circuit to deliver smooth, vintage style compression to add headroom and sustain to your guitar or bass. Dial in a fast, subtle style to control peaks or crank up the compression to add a unique character. Bring your tone to new heights with the Opto Comp Analog Optical Compressor.

Scrambler Bass Overdrive

The pedal infuses your sound with authentic Ampeg grit, grind and sag. Dial in a huge range of overdrive from subtle to screaming. Add in a touch of highs, then blend in with your dry signal to create the perfect tone. It’s pure analog Ampeg overdrive that’s super affordable.

Opto Comp Analog Optical Compressor

The Ampeg Opto Comp Analog Optical Compressor pedal utilizes an optical circuit to deliver smooth, vintage style compression to add headroom and sustain your guitar or bass.

Liquifier Analog Chorus

The Ampeg Liquifier Analog Chorus pedal delivers incredibly rich tones thanks to its dual chorus circuit design. Experience classic dreamy chorus or turn it all the way up to transport your tone to a new dimension. Get the lush sounds you’ve been dreaming of with the Liquifier Analog Chorus

Classic Analog Bass Preamp

The Ampeg Classic Analog Bass Preamp pedal is like having a choice of Ampeg amps right on your pedal board. Dial in a wide range of authentic Ampeg tones with the 3-band tone stack and highly flexible Ultra-Hi and Ultra-Lo circuits. It’s the most affordable way into the pure analog bass tone of Ampeg.

SCR_DI

The Ampeg SCR-DI Bass DI with Scrambler™ Overdrive combines a classic Ampeg preamp, EQ pedal and overdrive stomp box in a rugged design built to deliver legendary Ampeg tone in any situation. It’s perfect for driving your rig, sending your tone to front-of-house or for solo, silent practice.

Darkglass Electronics Hyper Luminal Hybrid Compressor Guitar Effects Pedal

Based on 36 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Hyper Luminal Compressor features the first hybrid design in a compressor pedal: an analog VCA controlled by a digital side-chain allowed us to capture and include the characters of some of the most legendary compressors in history while keeping the signal path completely analog.USBA Micro USB B connector allows you to connect the pedal to PC/Mac to set Time settings, parameters, and future firmware upgrades via the Darkglass Suite.BlendMixes the clean and effected signals. Unlike our distortions, it is placed before the Output control. So the Hyper Luminal can also be used as a transparent booster with this control at minimum.TimeSets the time constants (Attack and Release). You can use the Darkglass Suite to fine tune and custom map the time constants, you can also assign different behaviours for each Mode.Features:Hybrid Compressor DesignThree Different Modes: BUS/FET/SYMBlend/Time/Output/Compression KnobsConnects to Darkglass Suite via Micro USBRuns on 9V DC Power Supply (Not Included)Get your Darkglass Electronics Hyper Luminal Hybrid Compressor Bass Effects Pedal today at the guaranteed lowest price from Sam Ash with our 45-day return and 60-day price protection policy.

A Micro USB B connector allows you to connect the pedal to PC/Mac to set Time settings, parameters, and future firmware upgrades via the Darkglass Suite.
Output- Sets the overall output volume of the unit.
Ratio- Adjusts the amount of compression.
1 x 1/4" Input
1x 1/4" Output

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this come with a power adapter
Answer:	The zipper broke just in few tries-ended buying a new hard cover
Question:	Hello, can you send two day shipping
Answer:	47" X 14" at the body

MXR M87 Bass Compressor

MXR

Based on 132 reviews Check latest price

Product description

MXR's M87 Bass Compressor puts studio-grade bass compression right on your pedalboard! You'll love how the M87 puts you in complete command of compression functions, thanks to attack, release, ratio, input, and output controls. The built-in Constant Headroom Technology (CHT) ensures plenty of headroom. You want your bass to retain its character, even during the most energized moments. The M87's transparency never lets the compression compromise your sound. Ten easy-to-see gain-status LEDs let you know when the compression threshold has been reached. Take studio-quality bass tones to the stage, with the M87 Bass Compressor! MXR M87 Bass Compressor Pedal Features: CHT Constant Headroom Technology for clear, clean performance True bypass 10 gain-reduction status LEDs Attack, release, ratio, input, and output controls Lightweight, tough aluminum housing Pedalboard-friendly footprint

CHT Constant Headroom Technology for clear, clean performance
True bypass
10 gain-reduction status LEDs
Its CHT Constant Headroom Technology gives you plenty of headroom and clear performance
The totally transparent M87 Bass Compressor allows your full dynamic range to shine through until your signal reaches the compression threshold, which is indicated by the ten highly visible gain-reduction status LEDs

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this pedal use only 9 volt battery , I don't see a plug for an A/C adapter
Answer:	Subes original
Question:	I'm torn between this and the keeley bassist...does this pedal produce sustain? (the keeley reportedly doesn't
Answer:	Hey, there is no manual for this pedal.
Question:	I have to turn input vol and bass guitar vol almost all the way up to light more than a couple leds. is this common? using passive p-bass
Answer:	I think it would work but it would probably lose the higher tones. It is designed to match the range of a bass.
Question:	What are the actual dimensions of the compressor? (The dimensions listed above are clearly incorrect) A Phase 90 is about 4-3/8"x
Answer:	Yes, It works with 9V DC center negative power adapter or a 9V battery

SanJune GB-CP Optical Compressor Guitar and Bass Effects Pedal, Black

Based on 24 reviews Check latest price

This GB-CP is a professional studio compressor in compact pedal format. It takes an instrument such as an electric guitar or bass guitar. Amplifies or compresses it and restores average volume after compression.
Simple to use yet extremely powerful, the gb-cp will give the gloss of a professional studio production to all your performances. It is equally at home both live and in the studio.
The PhotoOptical compressor is what gives GB-CP unique character. It makes an instrument sound denser and playing seem more even for “produced” results.
Due to Its Mini Enclosure, This Pedal Does not Accept a Battery, It Requires a Standard 9V Power Supply Which is Not Included
Quality assurance, SanJune always stand behind our products with one-year guarantee.

User questions & answers

Question:	Can I use it as insert on my mixer for vocals
Answer:	I’m going to say no. This is for guitars, I’m sure that there are products made to do what you’re thinking about trying. Good Luck

Product features

Treat yourself and your ears by getting SanJune pedal!

In the life of every electric guitarist, effect pedals start to become important to your music sound, if you are looking for something affordable, versatile and portable that does the job and takes only a little space on your pedalboard, then SanJune guitar effect pedal is a must have and perfect companion for an easy playing and enjoying music life. It's meticulously crafted and housed in such a tiny metal box to sustain from normal use for a long period of time. Seriously, you cannot imagine how fantastic the sound is until you get one!

EBS MultiComp Blue Label Bass Compressor Pedal

EBS

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A multiband compressor pedal that's easy to dial in! The EBS MultiComp Blue Label pedal delivers studio-quality multiband compression for your bass pedalboard, and it's simple enough that you can make it sound great even in the middle of a gig. Adjust the Sensitivity control until the MultiComp Blue Label starts grabbing your signal (indicated by the LED), then adjust the Comp control for just the right amount of girth and dynamic control. Use the Gain control to make up the lost volume due to the compression, or bump it up further to add some harmonic grit to your tone. Complete with three selectable compression modes with distinct sonic characteristics and an internal trim pot to fine-tune how it responds to your playing style, the EBS MultiComp Blue Label multiband compressor pedal is highly recommended by GearNuts to any tone-savvy bass player.

Multib Compress Pedal f Bass
with 3 Compression Modes

Seymour Duncan Studio Bass Compressor Pedal Bass Compression Effect Pedal

Seymour Duncan

Based on 38 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Our unique Blend knob and 3 way mini-toggle switch will allow you to select the frequency range of the original uncompressed signal as well as infinitely adjust the amount of "wet" versus "dry" signal that is routed to the output. It's often best to put a compressor at the beginning of your effects chain, but sometimes it can work more efficiently when placed after effects such as an auto wah or envelope filter. You won't do any damage by putting your effects in the so-called wrong order, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for your sound.

The Studio Bass Compressor is a studio-grade, classic compressor in a user friendly 4 knob format
Transparent and pairs beautifully with the 805 Overdrive for tight grind
Designed and Assembled in Santa Barbara, CA

User questions & answers

Question:	Does it have two variants? Coz the one i ordered doesnt have black input and output. It has chrome instead... Kinda disappointed
Answer:	No, it does not come with a power adapter.
Question:	Does it come with an ac/dc adapter
Answer:	Yes, we ship most any effects pedal out via USPS Priority Mail, which from Texas is 1-3 days delivery time to most all of the continental US. Brian Meader Sales Manager The Guitar Sanctuary
Question:	Is unit also battery powered
Answer:	More of a light red. I wondered about that also when I bought it, but it’s more of a red than what the stock photo shows. Otherwise it looks exactly like what you see.
Question:	Does it come with AC adapter
Answer:	This bundle includes 2 6" 1/4 inch patch cables and 2 18.6' 1/4 inch instrument cables. Thanks!

Origin Effects Cali76 Compact Bass

Origin Effects

Based on 19 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The original Cali76 is a big, beautiful compressor pedal that delivers studio-quality 1176-style compression using discrete Class-A circuitry that's true to the topology and design philosophy of the original. The Cali76 Compact Bass is cut from the same cloth, sharing the features, performance and pedigree of its larger sibling, but with added parallel compression and a sidechain filter optimised for bass, all in a stompbox a third of the size of the Cali76 Standard. Like all of our Compact Series pedals, the Cali76 Compact Deluxe features high-current, discrete, Class-A circuitry for transparent, low-noise performance. We've taken a no-compromise approach to the circuit design using only the best of modern components. Rugged MELF resistors offer low noise performance and rock-solid reliability. Film and tantalum capacitors offer tight tolerances and superb linearity. Carefully chosen transistors biased at relatively high currents yield a distinct signal-to-noise advantage. Please note: the Cali76 Compact Bass is powered by a mains adaptor only. We've dispensed with the usual 9V battery option, both to save space and to allow us to adopt a high-current approach, yielding lower noise levels and superior tone.