Extensive compressor reviews and FAQ

Focusrite Bass Factory: This is a (fairly rare) bass-specific version of their Platinum Tone Factory, a channel strip featuring a preamp, compressor, many different EQ/tone functions, and a gate. The compressor is really, really good. It is a fairly unique optical design with a useful (but not overwhelming) range of controls. It can act as a very effective limiter, or it can be used for gentle squeeze, or added sustain- it's very versatile. There is no loss of highs or lows, and the tone is clear and modern. The lows are tightened up and the highs and upper mids really jump out very clearly- so this is a great tool for somebody who wants a bright, articulate crisp tone without losing the low end. The tradeoff is that the low-mid tone is not as fat as some people might like. The action is smooth at all settings, and the noise level is pretty low. The other functions of the channel strip are very good as well- the gate is effective, and not too obnoxious, and the filters and EQ provide a wide range control. I don't know how many of you will even find one of these to try out, but if you get the chance, the compressor in it is worth the effort. Regrettably I have no idea whether the one in the regular Tone Factory is any different from this one. Note that the comp section doesn't have separate in/outputs, so the only way to use it is to use the whole channel strip. The bypass switch is not "true bypass", but it is very clean.
 

 
 
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