Empress Effects Compressor MKII Silver

I’ve always had a hard time choosing the right compression pedal. Im so used to using plugins that come with more options than the majority of guitar pedals. However, the empress compressor mkii is basically a rack unit in a neat package. It’s easy to operate and sounds great!
Some of my favourite features are the mix knob, the input and output knobs as well as the LED display. All of which are features that you usually don’t see other guitar pedals having. If you’re like me and you’re looking for versatility, precision and transparency, then this is the pedal for you. The only drawback is that you might want more options when adjusting the ratio. But by having so many ways to fine tune the compression, I really haven’t felt the need of having more than 3 ratio settings. While being quite pricey, id definitely say it’s well worth it since you are getting one of the best compressors you can get your hands on. Its versatility speaks for itself. I’ve ran into problems with other pedals since some have a built in attack time which has made it hard to use for different genres, when playing funk I want a quick attack time and a slow release, and when playing single notes i prefer a slower attack. The tone control also clears up any unwanted muddy sounds. It has everything you need in one small (and good looking) pedal!

In my opinion the best compressor currently out there to grab.
Compact size, full (studio-grade) control and amazing, noise-free operation. Very transparent sound, hardly any coloration of the original signal (unless you want it to with the tilt EQ tone knob).
Due to the separate attack, decay, blend and tone knobs; any type of compression setting is possible with this superb device.
It equally works well with my Les Pauls, ES-s, Starts, Teles and Super-strats.
If I could only keep one compressor (hope never happens! ), this would be it!
Can’t recommend it enough!

I was convinced to get this over a Boss CP-1X or Cali 76 after watching Benn Jordan’s video about them on Youtube.
If you’re interested in the sound of it I recommend checking out that review.

It’s a great compressor. Sound-wise I can’t fault it. Offering anything from subtle compression to super-squashed as well as a bunch of other bells and whistles and a powerful EQ section.

The only criticism I have is that the knobs/pots feel a little fragile. The aluminium knobs that Empress have chosen feel light/cheap, which is a consideration for something you’ll be treading on.