Best bass guitar compressors

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Steve Romanoski
Last Updated: Sep 20, 2022

In this article, we've listed the best bass guitar compressors one can find out there. We've analyzed about 115 of bass guitar compressors and selected the 34 top options by Kadence, khanka, ISET, GHS Strings, LUVAY. We took the time to do a meticulous research and point out some advantages and disadvantages of each of the products we suggest below so that you don't have to dive deep into the topic and spend numerous hours hoping to find the perfect model on your own.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Empress Effects Bass Compressor Effects Pedal
#TOP 1
Empress Effects Bass Compressor Effects Pedal
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Caline G012 Python Compressor Pedal
#TOP 2
Caline G012 Python Compressor Pedal
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Darkglass Hyper Luminal Bass Compressor Pedal
#TOP 3
Darkglass Hyper Luminal Bass Compressor Pedal
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Top 34 Best bass guitar compressors Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

Empress Effects Bass Compressor Effects Pedal

Empress Effects

Features

  • Metering - Meter both gain reduction and input on separate meters.
  • All Analog Signal Path - no digitals in here!
  • Mix - Blend uncompressed signal in with the compressed signal for parallel compression, New York Style!
  • Sidechain High Pass Filter - a variable high pass filter that filters low frequencies from the sidechain. The filter frequency ranges from 20Hz to 400Hz.
  • Attack and Release Control - allows for ultimate control over the compression characteristics
  • 3 Compression Ratios - 2:1, 4:1 and 10:1 ratios offer lots of flexibility
  • Tone + Color - Adds mild harmonic distortion with a mid range cut or an upper mid range boost.
  • Sidechain Send/Return- 3.5mm TRS jack send and return for sidechain compression.
  • Improved Low End Frequency Response - To handle those low low sounds, completely flat down to 20Hz.
  • Extremely Transparent - Add dynamic control without altering the original tone of your instrument
#TOP 2

Caline G012 Python Compressor Pedal

Caline

Features

  • True Bypass: LED indicator shows the working state.True bypass for zero tone coloration. A fun useful pedal, and a great value
  • Many Types: Caline G012 Compressor Pedal has four function knobs, SUSTAIN/ATTACK/LEVEL/CLIPPING. this pedal for getting some really cool tones out of your rig
  • Ultimate Comp - A lot of options in a mini pedal format! Ideal as an ‘always-on’ under board solution that doesn’t take up too much space
  • Power Supply: DC 9V Adapter power supply. (plug polarity is positive on the barrel and negative in the center).(NOT INCLUDED)
  • Mini style: Small, light weight .Aluminum-alloy chassis seems durable and the on off button is sturdy and satisfying to click .It is popular for blues rock and metal guitarist
#TOP 3

Darkglass Hyper Luminal Bass Compressor Pedal

Darkglass Electronics

Features

  • Compression Knobs; Ratio Mode Through-metal Senss; 3 Modes; 10-segment Gain Reduction Meter
  • USB Interface
  • Output
  • Bass Compress Pedal with Blend
  • Time
#TOP 4

Boss BC-1X Bass Compressor Pedal

BOSS

Features

  • Release
  • Level Controls
  • Bass Multib Compress Pedal with Threshold
  • Ratio
#TOP 5

Keeley Compressor Plus Pedal

Keeley

Features

  • Sports a Blend Control that retains the peaks in your playing and, more importantly, the proper phasing of your guitar signal
  • There is a simple Release Switch that is tuned for single coils or humbuckers. No more wondering if you have the attack or release set right
  • The first true advancement in our 2 and 4 knob compressor line. The new features are simple and straight forward
  • Gorgeous sounding Tone Control which emphasizes the most sensitive harmonics that can be lost in compression
  • Offers the same gorgeous push of frequencies and sweetening of tone that the old comps gave you, now with the flexibility to easily handle any instrument
#TOP 6

Keeley Bassist Compressor and Limiting Amplifier Pedal

Keeley

Features

  • High performance voltage controlled amplifiers, on board true-rms detector, and ultra High performance op-amps to bring you the very best quality
  • Built around the exotic and extremely high fidelity that Corp. 4320
  • Very affordable studio-grade compressor in stomp box format
#TOP 7

Boss CS-3 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal

BOSS

Features

  • Compression/Sustainer Pedal f Guitar
#TOP 8

MXR M87 Bass Compressor Pedal w/ 4 Cables

MXR

Features

  • Lightweight, tough aluminum housing
  • Pedalboard-friendly footprint
  • CHT Constant Headroom Technology for clear, clean performanc
  • Attack, release, ratio, input, and output controls
  • 10 gain-reduction status LEDs
#TOP 9

Donner Compressor Pedal

Donner

Features

  • Notice: Power supply is NOT included. Runs on 9V DC.
  • [Durable Guitar Pedal] Aluminium-alloy classic, stable and strong. True bypass provides transparent tone.
  • [Versatile Compressor Pedal] With switchable Normal/Treble compression modes, Ultimate Comp can cater to different types of tone or playing.
  • [Inspired By Classics] Donner Ultimate Comp reproduce the iconic smooth, warm compression sound with high quality electronic components and circuit.
  • [Flexible Effect Pedal] Dial in your desired sound with Level, Comp, Tone knobs. Suitable for both vintage and modern players.
#TOP 10

Seymour Duncan Studio Bass Compressor Pedal Bass Compression Effect Pedal

Seymour Duncan

Features

  • The Studio Bass Compressor is a studio-grade, classic compressor in a user friendly 4 knob format
  • Designed and Assembled in Santa Barbara, CA
  • Transparent and pairs beautifully with the 805 Overdrive for tight grind
#TOP 11

MXR M87 Bass Compressor Effects Pedal BUNDLE

Artist Unknown

Features

  • Make sure this fits by entering your model number.
  • Lightweight, tough aluminum housing
  • Bundle includes 6 assorted Dunlop picks, 2 patch cables, and 9V power supply
  • CHT Constant Headroom Technology for clear, clean performance
  • Attack, release, ratio, input, and output controls
  • 10 gain-reduction status LEDs
#TOP 12

Vivlex LEF-333 Compressor Pedal Mini Analog Compression Effects Pedal Stompbox

Vivlex

Features

  • Incredible SoundsBased on classic studio-grade compressor, a smooth, sustained sound for clean tones or soaring leads. furthermore, it preserves the original signal transients.
  • Power SupplyRuns on 9V DC Center Negative power adapter ( NOT INCLUDED). Please note this pedal cannot powered by batteries.
  • Easy to OperateOnboard Level (output volume), Tone (brightness) , and Comp(compression intensity) controls for precise tonal shaping, and the low-noise design allows super-quiet operation. Two modes: Normal and Treble compression. with the Treble mode emphasizing the highs for a sharper sound.
  • One-Year Warranty- All Vivlex Pedals have a ONE-YEAR GUARANTEE, worry-free purchase. Affordable, with high quality. LOOK NO FURTHER. Treat yourself and your ears by getting Vivlex pedal!
  • Built To LastFull metal shell compact design with small-sized, easy to carry. Solid case is made of zinc alloy, durable and sturdy. High-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure long life.
#TOP 13

KLIQ Tiny-Compressor Effect Pedal

KLIQ Music Gear

Features

  • Backed by KLIQ: Rigorously tested and backed by KLIQ's comprehensive 1-year limited warranty. We've got your back!
  • Tried and true: Time tested Compressor guitar pedal with fully analog circuit; provides a broader adjustable range and true bypass.
  • Easy to use: This pedal was designed with simplicity in mind. No confusing modes, hidden buttons on the side, or features that don't belong in an effects pedal. Simply plug in and play some music!
  • Simple design: LED status indicator; powered by an AC adapter (not included); user manual included. Measures 3.7 by 2.1 by 2.1 inches.
  • Built to last: Made of high-quality aluminum alloy for durable strength; small classic size; orange-colored finish. With rugged aluminum on the outside and quality components on the inside, this pedal will perform night after night, stomp after stomp. So that you can sound your best every single time.
#TOP 14

JOYO Compressor Effect Pedal

JOYO

Features

  • Precise compression pedal--Avallon adopts the classic compressor circuit and get better dynamic feedback and features only THREE knobs RATIO, ATTACK, RELEASE to easily obtain much warmer and richer tone.
  • Service Promise--directly sold by JOYO Technology, who is with over 14 years of experience in customer service,products research and development, JOYO received great reputation all over the world among the guitarists, we would satisfy you at the first time when receiving your request.
  • Unique compressor Pedal--JOYO R-19 AVALLON is a compressor pedal with independent control knobs for INPUT signal and OUTPUT signal. Working current above 120mA, In order to make the pedal work properly and quietly, we do recommend JOYO 9V DC pedal power supply with noise reduction technology.
  • Charming pedal--Metal aluminum alloy case and high quality precision components making it solid and durable, moreover, its innovative R-series ambience LED lights delivers a feeling of charming.
  • User-friendly padal--JOYO R series vintage pedal's dimension(13cm*11cm*5.5cm),weights only 416g, takes little space in your pedalboard, importantly, the pedal adds GAIN REDUCTION indicators to see obviously the gain reduction dynamicly.
#TOP 15

MXR M87 Bass Compressor

JIM DUNLOP

Features

  • 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
  • 10 gain-reduction status LEDs
  • CHT Constant Headroom Technology for clear, clean performance
  • Its CHT Constant Headroom Technology gives you plenty of headroom and clear performance
  • True bypass
#TOP 16

Ampeg Opto Comp Optical Compressor Pedal

Ampeg

Features

  • Output Level Controls
  • Release
  • Optical Compress Pedal with True Bypass Compression
#TOP 17

ISET Compressor Guitar Pedal Sandwich Comp

ISET

Features

  • Note: Please note this pedal cannot powered by batteries. Need a DC 9V power supply with negative in the center to power up. Please buy it separately at Iset Music Store. Hope you will enjoy the using this Guitar Pedal.
  • Meterial: Made of high quality Aluminium zinc alloy, durable and strong. Classic mini size can save a lot of space on pedal board.
  • Two modes: full pint and half pint compression.
  • True Byapass switch lets your instrument’s signal pass through a non-electronic bypass line when the effect is disengaged. LED indicator shows the working state.
  • Effects: Level, Sensitivity, Tone knobs allow you to dial in your sound. The comp tone is round and smooth, full of musicality.
#TOP 18

COOLMUSIC C-CS01 Compressor Pedal

COOLMUSIC

Features

  • Whole Aluminium-alloy classic, stable and strong.True bypass provide transparent tone.
  • Our circuit has been optimized according to the characteristics of the electric guitar and performs outstandingly over the spectrum of different playing styles.
  • The C-CS01 Compression Sustainer pedal compresses louder signals while boosting lower signals.
  • DC 9V Adapter power supply. (Not Included)
  • The compressed tone is round and smooth,full of musicality, and perfectly retains the original guitar tone.
#TOP 19

Rowin Analog Mini Opto compressor Box Guitar Compression Pedal

Rowin

Features

  • 2 modes, with the Treble mode emphasizing the highs for a sharper sound
  • PACKAGE INCLUDES1*Rowin Nano Comp, 1*Owner Manual. Please be noted the Power supply is not included.️ 12-month warranty , 30 Days Unconditional Money Back Guarantee.
  • Produce a smooth, sustained sound foe clean tones or soaring leads
  • Based on classic studio grade compressors
  • Super mini size, can fits in your palms, Made of aluminum alloy, convenient and durable
#TOP 20

SONICAKE Bass Effects Pedals Multieffect Preamp Compressor Boost Fuzz Octave Multi Effects Pedal Boom Ave With FX Loop

SONICAKE

Features

  • One-Stop Gig Solution for Bass Players with Main Effects needed for the Bass Pedal
  • This bass multi effects pedal contain Octave Module Produces Notes One and Two Octaves Lower along with the Direct Signal for the Massive *Thickness or Treble Tricky with some High Frets Tracking
  • Compressor, Boost, Fuzz Modules effects ready for Most Common Use in Bass Playing Scenes on the bass multi effects pedal
  • XLR Output for directly connecting to PA, Mixer or Audio Interface; FX Loop for Hooking up other Effects Pedals
  • The bass pedal have Analog Preamp with 3-Band EQ recreates the Legendary Ampeg Style Tone, from Dynamic Clean to Classic Rock Bass Sound
#TOP 21

Behringer CS400 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal

Behringer

Features

  • Tone
  • Compress/Sustainer Pedal with Level
  • Sustain Controls
  • Attack
#TOP 22

AZOR Compressor Pedal

AZOR

Features

  • Power source- 9V DC adapter center negative(no power adapter included)
  • Mini style- Small, light weight and exquisite.Enduring, light-weighted Aluminumalloy chassis .
  • Ultimate Comp- Our circuit has been optimized according to the characteristics of the electric guitar and performs outstandingly over the spectrum of different playing styles
  • Classic design- Classic optical compressing sound with smooth attack and decay
  • Perfect sound- It preserves the original signal transients perfectly
#TOP 23

Jim Dunlop Dyna Comp Bass Compressor Effect Pedal (M282)

JIM DUNLOP

Features

  • The Package Width of the product is 4.5 inches
  • The classic Dyna Comp compressor sound re-tuned to retain the low end, dynamics, and transparency that bass players require familiar output and sensitivity controls set volume level and the length of sustain includes Dunlop ECB003 9-volt AC adapter
  • The Package Length of the product is 5.5 inches
  • The Package heigt of the product is 2.5 inches
#TOP 24

JOYO Dynamic Compressor Pedal Low Noise re-Creation Classic Ross Compressor

JOYO

Features

  • JOYO Dyna Compressor guitar effect pedal features a re-creation of the classic-ross's compressor with very low noise, an essential part of your tone.
  • JOYO is over decade of brand reputation, with the most popular budget pedals, amplifiers, wireless systems, controllers, metronomes, tuners winning the love of global guitarists and inspiring people's music dreams.
  • Before playing, please make sure the guitar is fully connected with the pedal. in order to make JOYO pedals work properly and avoiding unexpected noise, we recommend you to purchase an extra JOYO original power adapter, or choose the other reliable brands and make sure it meets the working current requirement of single pedal.
  • True Bypass provide transparent tone to keep the best tone quality, aluminium-alloy housing classic stoving varnish finish, stable and strong.
  • Use the "Sustain" "Attack" and "Level" knobs to find your ideal tone. Tweak the "Attack" knob to boost your bottom end and level off high-output pickups.
#TOP 25

Amazon Basics Compressor Guitar Pedal

Amazon Basics

Features

  • Compressor guitar pedal with fully analog circuit; provides a broader adjustable range and true bypass
  • Make sure this fits by entering your model number.
  • Anti-skid rubber pads on the backside for better stability and friction prevention
  • Measures 3.7 by 2.1 by 2.1 inches; backed by an Amazon Basics 1-year limited warranty
  • LED status indicator; powered by an AC adapter(NOT included) delivery, 9V DC regulated minimum 300mA, Internal negative external positive; user manual included
  • Made of high-quality aluminum alloy for durable strength; small classic size; silver-colored finish
#TOP 26

SanJune GB-CP Optical Compressor Guitar and Bass Effects Pedal

SanJune

Features

  • Due to Its Mini Enclosure, This Pedal Does not Accept a Battery, It Requires a Standard 9V Power Supply Which is Not Included
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Quality assurance, SanJune always stand behind our products with one-year guarantee.
  • The PhotoOptical compressor is what gives GB-CP unique character. It makes an instrument sound denser and playing seem more even for “produced” results.
#TOP 27

MIMIDI Compressor Guitar Effect Pedal

MIMIDI

Features

  • High Quality CircuitTrue bypass and advanced noise reduction circuit keeps your signal clean. Delivering a warm and natural sound. Please make sure the adapter is DC 9V.(Not Included, please purchase separately from our store)The misusage of power adapter will generate noise.
  • Multifunction DesignUse to tighten up and make the guitar sound more conscise and balanced. No matter positive or negative pickup, you can find proper position to create full textured compressor effect. SUSTAIN knob(compression ratio),LEVEL knob(output volume) and ATTACK knob(pedal start time)for using in different scenarios. Each knob gives you a wide control range.
  • Perfect ConstructionDimensions: 92*38*33mm, weight 142g. Exquisite and portable. Aluminum alloy housing with oxidation paint, mini size easy for carrying, additional flat bar design to protect knob setting, bottom anti-slip silicone pad design makes pedal more stable.
  • Customer Satisfaction"MIMIDI" Is a professional manufacturer of guitar pedal effects. We always stand behind our products and it is our honor to satisfy our customers. 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee. Free replacement or refund for any quality issue.
  • Exquisite GiftThis pedal is packed extremely well in a gift box. Pedal comes with a pre-sized Velcro and Owner's Manual. It can be comprehensively applicable for all music venues: hall, music concert, stage, studio, karaoke, etc. This is the best gift for any Guitarist or Bassist.
#TOP 28

ISET Compressor Guitar Pedal Analog Lemon Compress Effect

ISET

Features

  • Note: Please note this pedal cannot powered by batteries. Need a DC 9V power supply with negative in the center to power up. Please buy it separately at Iset Music Store. Hope you will enjoy the using this Guitar Pedal.
  • Meterial: Made of high quality Aluminium zinc alloy, durable and strong. Classic mini size can save a lot of space on pedal board.
  • Two modes: full pint and half pint compression.
  • Effects: Level, Sensitivity, Tone knobs allow you to dial in your sound. The comp tone is round and smooth, full of musicality.
  • True Byapass switch lets your instrument’s signal pass through a non-electronic bypass line when the effect is disengaged. LED indicator shows the working state.
#TOP 29

Compressor Guitar Pedal

kokko

Features

  • EFFECTS - Fully analog circuit. True bypass.A broader adjustable range.
  • RELIABLE QUALITY - High quality by aluminum alloy which is durable and have a classic mini size brings you a musical feast.
  • ANTI SKID - Rubber pads on the backside is anti-skid, which enhances the stability and avoids friction.
  • LED INDICATOR - LED indicator shows the status of effect. No battery, Powered by AC adapter(not included).
  • RESONABLE PRICE ? Provided the very reasonable price to match the high quality product, you will not regret it.
#TOP 30

Caline CP-45 Pressure Point Bass Compressor Pedal True Bypass

Caline

Features

  • Powered by AC adapter or Battery (neither included), A battery cable included.
  • Effect pedal specially designed for bass guitar application.
  • 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.
  • 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.
#TOP 31

MOOER Yellow Comp Optical Compressor Guitar Pedal

CAMOLA

Features

  • True bypass design to minimize the tone loss.
  • Working Mode Warm: Reconstruct a warm tube drive tone and nice dynamic response of classic tube amplifier, it provides a natural, smooth, creamy overdrive sound.
  • Working Mode Hot: More powerful output than Warm mode, mighty crunch tone.
  • Aluminum alloy case with stove varnish finish.
  • Mini size, compact and space-saving.
#TOP 32

Caline DCP-10 Stella Bass Compressor EQ Effect Pedal Dual Pedal

Caline

Features

  • This BASS 6 Band EQ covers all the essential guitar frequencies with LEVEL channel in the right side, combines with Bass compressors effects in the left side.
  • Super Solid Metal Casing.
  • 62.5,125, 500,1K, 4K, 3.2K, with a level control on EQ channel, EQ Comp and Vol for the Compressor side.
  • Uses Standard 9V Center Negative Adapter (not included).
  • Caline's DCP series is a line of dual pedals. 2 popular combo of effects in 1 unit for a very useful space saving feature.
#TOP 33

Sondery Compressor Guitar Bass Effect Pedal

Sondery

Features

  • True bypass hardware switching. Ultra low noise operation. Beautiful art design on the top, and diamond cut along the edge
  • Measures 3.7 by 1.9 by 1.66 inches / 94 by 42 by 48 millimetres; backed by Sondery 1-year limited warranty
  • Made of reliable high-quality aluminum alloy, anti-skid rubber pad on the backside for stability and friction prevention
  • LED status indicator; user manual included; no batteries needed, powered by an AC adapter (NOT included) delivery, 9V DC, internal negative, external positive
  • Classic analog compressor effect pedal for guitar and bass. 3 Controls by Sustain, Level and Attack. Sustain to adjust the compression ratio for a longer period when the effect level is increased. Attack - lower level gives a quick/tight response, higher level give a slower/smooth response
#TOP 34

Optical Compressor Pedal

BLOKAMUGT

Features

  • Simple to use yet extremely powerful, the CP-BOOSTER 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 CP-BOOSTER compressor is what gives unique character. It makes an instrument sound denser and playing seem more even for “produced” results.
  • This CP-BOOSTER 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.
  • Quality assurance, BLOKAMUGT always stand behind our products with one-year guarantee.
  • Due to Its Mini Enclosure, This Pedal Does not Accept a Battery, It Requires a Standard 9V Power Supply Which is Not Included

The Buying Guide to the Top bass guitar compressors - What to Keep in Mind

How do I make my bass more punchy?

To make the bass more punchy and percussive, slow down the attack. This can help the bass cut through a mix, and it's often a good approach for parts that are highly rhythmic. If you want to make the bass sound smoother and softer, speed up the attack.

Do bass feel pain when you hook them?

Do fish feel pain when hooked? The wild wriggling and squirming fish do when they're hooked and pulled from the water during catch-and-release fishing isn't just an automatic response—it's a conscious reaction to the pain they feel when a hook pierces their lips, jaws, or body.

Do bass bite better in high or low pressure?

The answer to this question, is that in general, bass bite better under conditions of extended low pressure. However, that doesn't mean that you can't have a successful day of fishing when the pressure is high. You just need to adjust the gear you use and your fishing techniques.

What is the hardest thing to compress?

In state, matter is most difficult to be compressed.

Where do bass go when its sunny?

Bass are pushed into shady, or lowlight, areas when the sun is high in the sky. These protected locations can be found around docks and trees or by heading to deeper water. Sunny days often mean high-pressure systems as well which will position the bass near bottom structure.

Can a guitar chorus pedal be used on bass?

Most chorus pedals can be used with any instrument like a synth, guitar, bass guitar, or EP. So, you can use a guitar chorus pedal for bass, and it can sound amazing.

What kind of compressor is a Dyna Comp?

Now we can clarify the Dyna Comp — it is a simple, vintage-inspired compressor pedal made specifically for guitar signal compression. I mentioned earlier that the demos I found showcased the Dyna Comp with clean, twang tones.

Editor's Notes

Overall, our testing team spent 78 hours on the research prior to come up with the list of the 34 best bass guitar compressors out there. We've read 1034 reviews, on 19 different trusted resources and made this compilation of the customers' favorites. These products have the average rating of 298, and, we've also considered the price range: on average, the selected bass guitar compressors are available at $3190.

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Written by

Steve Romanoski

Steve loves music. Steve Romanoski and his wife live in Alaska. They are always on the go, exploring new places and trying out new products (especially those which can help them enjoy the great musics even more). When he's not writing about products, Steve Romanoski enjoys reading books about history and science. He likes to think of himself as a renaissance man, but his wife would probably say that he's just a big kid at heart.