Best guitar compressor pedals

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Steve Romanoski
Last Updated: Sep 21, 2022

In this article, we've compiled the best guitar compressor pedals you can find on the market today. We've analyzed about 95 of guitar compressor pedals and selected the 34 top options by GHOSTFIRE, an-do-er, J&Z, PyleUsa. Check out what we recommend in 2023.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

MXR M132 Super Comp Compressor
#TOP 1
MXR M132 Super Comp Compressor
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JHS Whitey Tighty Compressor Guitar Effects Pedal
#TOP 2
JHS Whitey Tighty Compressor Guitar Effects Pedal
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JHS Pedals 3 Series Compressor (3SCOMPRESSOR)
#TOP 3
JHS Pedals 3 Series Compressor (3SCOMPRESSOR)
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Top 34 Best guitar compressor pedals Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

MXR M132 Super Comp Compressor

JIM DUNLOP

Features

  • Power: Dunlop ECB003 AC adapter or single 9 volt battery
  • Juice up your sound
  • New attack level control
  • An update of the legendary Dyna Comp
  • The ultimate source for the “Nashville” sound
  • Invisible boost to intricate licks
  • Dial in the perfect setting
  • Attack level control preserves initial volume without sacrificing sustain
  • Footswitch toggle
#TOP 2

JHS Whitey Tighty Compressor Guitar Effects Pedal

JHS Pedals

Features

  • FET compressor that has three simple controls: Volume, Compression, and Blend
  • With the ability to blend in compression and clean signal, you’ll be able to dial in the perfect sound that keeps everything in place
  • Use the Blend knob to dial in the right amount of clean tone along with your compressed signal
  • The Compression knob controls the amount of compression for everything from a subtle smoothing of your tone to a pleasing squash that’s perfect for country, blues, pop, and rock
  • The Volume control gives you the ability to set your volume at unity gain or slightly boosted to make up for any perceived loss from the compression
#TOP 3

JHS Pedals 3 Series Compressor (3SCOMPRESSOR)

JHS Pedals

Features

  • Made in Kansas City USA
  • Runs on 9V DC Negative Center power and consumes 8mA
  • A simple and powerful compressor that will give you everything from subtle tone smoothing to a super squashed sound
  • The Attack and Sustain knobs allow you to dial in the compression's overall feel and response to your playing, while the Volume knob enables you to set the overall volume at unity or boosted
  • The Bright toggle engages a brighter EQ so that your tone doesn't get lost in certain situations
#TOP 4

MXR Dyna Comp Guitar Effects Pedal (M102)

JIM DUNLOP

Features

  • Useful for increased sustain with stable dynamics
  • Power: Dunlop ECB003 AC Adapter or Single 9 volt battery
  • Superb tone
  • Sensitivity control
  • In-line compressor “evens out” the signal to your amplifier
  • Compression circuit
  • Constant output signal
  • Nashville studio standard
#TOP 5

Xotic SP Compressor

Xotic

Features

  • superb tone quality featuring a wide variety of compressor tones
#TOP 6

Wampler Ego Compressor V2 Guitar Effects Pedal

Wampler

Features

  • Designed to ensure playing dynamics could be retained without coloring the tone at all
  • Allows your original signal to be blended in so you can get all the benefits of a great compressor but with the option to remove the squash at the front by bringing the bypassed signal in
  • With a comprehensive array of controls and a pure core tone, the Ego works perfectly as an "always on" compressor or as "an effect"
  • With this pedal you can have full country squash or open studio level parallel compression
  • Brings a new level of of control to what is expected and needed by today's guitar players
#TOP 7

Boss CP-1X Compressor Pedal

BOSS

Features

  • Compression
  • Attack
  • Ratio
  • Controls for Level
  • Compressor Effects Pedal with Gain Reduction Indicator
#TOP 8

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 9

MOSKYAudio Mini C4 Compressor Guitar Effect Pedal Metal Shell Pedal Effects True Bypass

Moskyaudio

Features

  • True bypass footswitch for switching between compressor and bypass status.
  • This compressor effect pedal can add some vintage-sounding push and squash to your sound. It's no-nonsense design, you can easily tweak your perfect sound with 4 essential controls.
  • LED light for indicating effects or bypass status.
  • 4 functional knobs(sustain/level/attack/clipping) for adjust the performance of compression.
  • Full metal shell and compact size, durable and portable.
#TOP 10

Boss CS-3 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal

BOSS

Features

  • Compression/Sustainer Pedal f Guitar
#TOP 11

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 12

MXR M291 Dyna Comp Mini Compressor Guitar Effects Pedal

JIM DUNLOP

Features

  • Classic MXR compression in a space-saving mini housing
  • Features rare CA3080 “metal can” integrated circuit (IC) for quieter operation, greater transparency, and increased dynamic range
  • All-new attack switch toggles between slow and fast attack times
#TOP 13

EarthQuaker Devices The Warden V2 Optical Compressor Pedal

Earthquaker Devices

Features

  • Sustain
  • Release Controls True Bypass
  • Guitar Compress Pedal with Tone
  • Attack
  • Level
#TOP 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

Orange Kongpressor Analogue Class A Compression Guitar Effects Pedal

Orange Amps

Features

  • Transparent Buffered Bypass
  • Studio Quality Optical Compressor with Ultra-Smooth Bloom
  • 12dB Clean Boost
  • Internal Charge Pump
#TOP 18

DidaMusic Caline CP-47 Pressure Tank Compressor Compress Guitar Effect Pedal True Bypass

Caline

Features

  • Excellent new Comprssor from Caline
  • Dual power supply choices (9V battery or DC 9V power adapter) for convenient usage.(neither included)
  • Aluminum alloy shell.
  • With LEVEL, EQ and COMP adjusting knobs for you to get your favorate tones.
  • True bypass design
#TOP 19

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 20

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 21

Rowin Compressor Pedal Comp Effect Pedal

Rowin

Features

  • 3 FUNCTION KNOBLevel ,Comp,Tone knobs allow you to dial in your desired sound.2 MODESNormal and Treble.
  • PURE ANALOG COMPRESSOR EFFECTSBased on classic studio grade compressor, produces a smooth, sustained sound for clean tone or soaring leads
  • MINI SIZESmall and exquisite,can save a lot of space on pedal board
  • TRUE BYPASSTrue bypass provide transparent tone.LED indicator shows the working state
  • SOLID CONSTRUCTIONMade of high-quality zinc alloy, durable and sturdy.
#TOP 22

Behringer CS400 Compressor/Sustainer Pedal

Behringer

Features

  • Tone
  • Compress/Sustainer Pedal with Level
  • Sustain Controls
  • Attack
#TOP 23

Compressor Electric Guitar Effects Pedal

LOTKEY

Features

  • Lifetime Promise: Unbelievably inexpensive three-knob setup,it's obviously simple to use. For any problem with this Compressor pedal, just contact us for a perfect solution, we are always here and help!
  • Integrated Noise Reduction: Developed with the code to reduce noise swells common with Compressor circuit, you get the quietest effect possible with this Compressor pedal.
  • Pure Signal:True bypass switching maintains pure signal flow when Compressor pedal disengaged. Dedicated Sustain & Level & Attack knobs allow for precise effect tailoring.
  • Easy Carry: Powered by a DC 9V adapter (not included in this package),Compressor pedal has a small size body, light weight, suitable for out side gigs.
  • Solid Quality: The whole guitar pedal is made of aluminum alloy and classic, stable and strong. Aluminium alloy body makes this compressor pedal safe to transport.
#TOP 24

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 25

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 26

VSN Guitar Compressor Pedal

VSN

Features

  • Good QualityCase body made of high-quality alloy, stable and strong
  • Analog CompressorBased on classic studio grade compressor, produces a smooth, sustained sound for clean tone or soaring leads.
  • Easy Carry: Mini size body, light weight, suitable for out side gigs,powered by a DC 9V adapter (You could buy one at VSN Music).
  • 2 ModesNormal and Treble compression, Level ,Comp,Tone knobs allow you to dial in your desired sound.
  • True Bypass Provide transparent tone.LED indicator shows the working state. Brings a new level of of control to what is expected and needed by today's guitar players.
#TOP 27

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 28

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 29

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 30

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 31

Dyna Compressor Pedal

AKLOT

Features

  • Pure SignalTrue bypass switching maintains pure signal flow when the compressor pedal disengaged. Dedicated Sustain & Level & Attack knobs allow for precise effect tailoring.
  • Lifetime PromiseUnbelievably inexpensive three-knob setup,it's obviously simple to use. For any problem with this distortion pedal, just contact us for a perfect solution, we are always here and help!
  • Solid QualityThe whole guitar pedal is made of aluminum alloy and classic, stable and strong. Aluminium alloy body makes this compressor pedal safe to transport.
  • Easy CarryPowered by a DC 9V adapter (not included in this package),this Dyna Compressor pedal has a small size body, light weight, suitable for out side gigs.
  • Integrated Noise ReductionDeveloped with the code to reduce noise swells common with Dyna Compressor circuit, you get the quietest effect possible with this Compressor pedal.
#TOP 32

lotmusic Compressor Electric Guitar Effects Pedal Mini Single Type DC 9V True Bypass

lotmusic

Features

  • Pure Signal:True bypass switching maintains pure signal flow when Compressor pedal disengaged. Dedicated Sustain & Level & Attack knobs allow for precise effect tailoring.
  • Lifetime Promise: Unbelievably inexpensive three-knob setup,it's obviously simple to use. For any problem with this Compressor pedal, just contact us for a perfect solution, we are always here and help!
  • Integrated Noise Reduction: Developed with the code to reduce noise swells common with Compressor circuit, you get the quietest effect possible with this Compressor pedal.
  • Solid Quality: The whole guitar pedal is made of aluminum alloy and classic, stable and strong. Aluminium alloy body makes this compressor pedal safe to transport.
  • Easy Carry: Powered by a DC 9V adapter (not included in this package),Compressor pedal has a small size body, light weight, suitable for out side gigs.
#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

MXR M102 Dyna Comp Compressor Pedal Bundle

Briskdrop

Features

  • Sensitivity control
  • Useful for increased sustain with stable dynamics
  • Bundle includes 9 volt power supply
  • Constant output signal
  • In-line compressor “evens out” the signal to your amplifier

Ready for the Course: How to Buy the Right guitar compressor pedals

Do you put reverb before or after compression?

Over time, producers have discovered that you get a better sound if you put reverb towards the end of the signal chain, after EQ and compression.

Should you EQ your reverb?

EQ can be really helpful for tailoring your reverb to fit the song. Too much bottom end on reverb returns can add to the lower midrange muddiness of a mix. In most cases, you won't lose much by EQing out a significant amount of low end from the reverb itself.

How much should I compress acoustic guitar?

However, if you feel like you need it, it's a good idea to start with around 1-3dB of compression and see how that feels before going any harder. Typically, this amount of compression is more than enough to help the acoustic guitar sit in place while retaining its natural sound.

Should compressor go before or after distortion?

If you're using a pedal to create distortion, put the compressor before the distortion pedal in the signal chain. High amounts of distortion naturally create compression and using a compressor will add even more smoothness and fluidity to the sound.

How many hours a day did Steve Vai practice?

Whereas John Petrucci and Steve Vai, etc., may practice six to ten hours a day in their studio (as well as live performances), other professional musicians will rack up the same amount of practice time while playing live, because this is the best way for them to achieve their musical goals.

Do compressors help with tapping?

Compressor pedals are a great tool to make your tapping and legato lines more consistent. They will normalize the loudness of all the notes you play making them more consonant.

Why does compression make music sound better?

Compression is used in music to reduce the dynamic range of signals with loud and quiet elements so that both can be heard clearly. Compression is used in music to reduce the dynamic range of signals with loud and quiet elements so that both can be heard clearly.

Should I use a compressor pedal with an acoustic guitar?

The Short Answer. A compressor pedal is ideal for an acoustic guitar as it 'compresses' the dynamic range closer together lowering the transience and stabilizes the volume level. This has many uses and can improve and balance the dynamics, frequencies, volume, and quality of the sound.

Does John Mayer use a compressor pedal?

When it comes to boost pedals, Mayer really only uses two. The first is a Keeley Katana Clean Boost, which is a $169 pedal that provides a really transparent volume boost and is very simple to operate. The second boost pedal that he uses is a Strymon OB. 1, which is actually a clean boost and compressor pedal.

Are compressor pedals necessary?

A compressor pedal can be one of the most valuable tools you can have in your setup. A compressor pedal is a useful device for taming dynamics. And as many musicians and audio engineers know, it's a versatile effect that can alter an instrument's tone and transients.

What happens if compressor runs continuously?

Only those air compressors with a 100% duty cycle can run constantly at the specified pressure and flow. Running an air compressor beyond its duty cycle limit leads to premature wear and tear, higher maintenance costs and, at its most extreme, breakdowns which can shut down production.

What is the most popular compressor?

1. UAD 1176 Classic Limiter Collection. Bill Putnam of Universal Audio designed the original 1176, which went on to become the most popular compressor of all time.

Editor's Notes

To make this list of the top guitar compressor pedals we spent 76 hours to analyze over 1021 customer reviews carefully. As a result, our editors selected the 34 options most people truly liked. They boast of the rating of 299, on average, and cost around $2379.

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.