How Do Compressor Pedals Work?

Compression can be a really difficult concept to wrap your mind around so in this episode we're gonna tackle this topic and hopefully bring some clarity. In the comments let me know what compressors you're using.

Check out the gear in this and past episodes here:

Gear in this video:
1:24 Roland AS-1 Sustainer
1:49 Boss CS-1
1:56 MXR Dynacomp
2:04 Ross Compressor
2:11 Dan Armstrong Orange Squeeze Compressor
2:17 JHS Pulp N' Peel V4
5:08 JHS Whitey Tighty
9:23 JHS Panther Cub V2
9:23 Fulltone Distortion Pro
9:23 Boss OD-3
9:23 Keeley Compressor Pro
9:23 JHS Whitey Tighty
15:15 Boss CP-1X
15:23 Diamond Compressor
15:28 JHS Pulp N' Peel V4
15:38 EarthQuaker Devices The Warden
15:51 Keeley Compressor Pro
16:00 Keeley Compressor Plus
16:06 MXR Dynacomp
16:20 JHS Whitey Tighty

Record Time:
Talking Heads - Remain in Light

Josh’s record player is by U-Turn Audio:

#jhs #thejhsshow #compression

[jep]

What a man - explaining and demonstrating not only his own gear but also graciously recommending great products from other developers - way to go for many others out there…

[jerbear]

this guy. he just brought my passion for guitars back to life.

[pottsinozadventures]

For me, the fewer pedals the better. Less noise, clutter, connections, cables etc....I would LOVE to see Boss combine their tuner and compression pedals into a single unit, since they are often first devices in a signal chain.

[dannyferarra]

You’re skill of explanation is incredible. Idk if you consider yourself a teacher. But it seems like you have an undisputed knack for it!!

[georgeramplin]

Lots of respect for the fact you’re not afraid to acknowledge great pedals by other designers!

[morbidrockgod]

That was the best explanation of parameters on compressor pedals I've ever seen or read. Congrats!

[repomanband]

Remain in Light was the first album I owned by the band that became my favorite band, and still my favorite band from the 80s. Love it.

[jetrockshard]

Really like the new jam session in the videos to show the live usage of pedals.

[scottmcglynn]

These guys understand content marketing

[bdogfilms]

Because of this video, I just bought a Whitey Tighty. Actually, it's because of all of your videos really. You've helped me understand this world so much better and you clearly care so much about your work and music. I am confident that your pedals reflect this love for the craft.

[frankvazquez]

This is one of the best youtube channels I've seen in any genre. Concise, educational, mildly entertaining, good production, no annoying sales pitches... If this were Spinal Tap, you'd get an 11.

[gb-nz]

9:08 GILMOUR GIRL
11:26 COMMUNITY COLLEGE
13:01 PARMESAN WESTERN
16:43 A DOZEN REASONS

[samsanimationcorner]

Sultans of Swing by Dire Straits is an amazing example of compression

[honkylips]

Your gardener is a pretty awesome drummer

[ryanloescher]

Thank you so much for this video and many others, Josh. I really appreciate you taking the time to teach us not only about your effects, but the effects you love from other companies, and more importantly, how to use them properly. I had heard of JHS pedals before, but I have to say, you have really made me a fan with your awesome personality and willingness to educate while also just being yourself and an overall great person.

Great pick for record time today, I can honestly say that album helped me through a lot. While I normally don't go for the big radio hits, I can't help but love Once in a Lifetime from this album. It's so fun, and quirky, and has so much energy... It's just a fantastic song. Byrne is still light-years ahead of his time.

[dermirscho]

I can't belive how actually helpful, fun and interesting your videos are. Thank you all so much!

[robertallen]

I've got to tell you all folks. I went to The NAMM Show this year for 2019. I've been going on and off since I was a young lad in 86. I've been in the music industry in the recording side for many years. But what's amazing to me is when I meet people like Josh. He was very approachable very nice to talk to and from one engineer to another it was a pleasure. It's cool to see the people making the gear and the people on YouTube are more famous than the snooty musicians that use their gear. Josh it was a pleasure to meet you, and you're a true gentleman. Now you're going to have to do a demo with one of your 1 of 4 guitars.

[KristofferVad]

Compression is the one effect I do not have in my arsenal. Mostly because I did not know how to use it - I am wiser now and will go hunt for a suitable one... Thanks Josh!

[andyracksthecams]

Really glad and timely finding this channel. I've been stuck in a rut for too long. Love it.

[saintsfann]

Thank you so much for showing the audio examples with you playing the guitar soft and then loud and letting us hear the different compression settings!!! You can't understand compression without hearing it. Love the new compression pedal.