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Hi Rio---I've been using a compressor for years, but probably not in
the manner in which you're thinking. I use mine mostly like a stomp
box. This is my favorite solution for the age-old problem of how to
get from a clean rhythm sound to a decent lead level without adding
unnatural distortion or turning the amp up. I like 'em because most of
the time I want a good clean boost that doesn't color the sound of my
guitar. I set the level on my old MIJ Boss CS-2 on max and the sustain
anywhere from 3-5. It doesn't act like a compressor, it just slams the
reverb and amp with a hotter signal when I want to solo. This set-up
also helps with some guitars' (particularly Jazzmasters and Gibsons)
annoying habit of losing highs when not on 10. I'll set my amp for the
rhythm sound and level I want with the guitar wide open, then hit the
compressor for solos. Works great for me. To answer your actual
question, I don't generally use the compressor when chording live,
because if the level is down and the sustain is up, the signal is too
squashed and removes any dynamics from your playing---everything is the
same volume no matter how hard or soft you play (good for studio, bad
for live, IMO). Although you can spend big $ on boutique compressors,
I say get a cheapo Dano Surf'n'Turf and experiment.
Have fun, Matt Q.
> Anybody use a compressor when playing live?
Rio
