Introduction
Table of Contents
For a Keeley Compressor Plus, start with sustain at 9 o’clock, blend at noon, and level at 3 o’clock. These settings will provide a good starting point for most playing styles and genres.
The Keeley Compressor Plus is a versatile pedal that can enhance the sustain and dynamics of your guitar signal. With the right settings, you can achieve a smooth, transparent compression that adds richness to your tone. By understanding how to adjust the sustain, blend, and level controls, you can tailor the pedal to suit your specific preferences and needs.
Whether you’re looking to add more punch to your clean tones or control the dynamics of your overdriven leads, the Keeley Compressor Plus can be a valuable tool in your arsenal. We’ll explore some recommended settings and tips to help you get the most out of this popular compressor pedal.
Dialing In Your Sound
Keeley Compressor Plus Settings: When dialing in your sound with the Keeley Compressor Plus, it’s important to consider the settings that best suit your music style. The right settings can significantly impact the final sound that you achieve. The optimal settings for the Keeley Compressor Plus can vary depending on the music genre you are playing. For example, in rock music, you might want to emphasize sustain and attack, while in jazz, a smoother compression might be preferred. Understanding the nuances of compressor settings in relation to different music styles can help you achieve the desired tonal qualities for your performances or recordings. Experimenting with different settings and understanding how they influence your sound is essential for getting the most out of your Keeley Compressor Plus.
Blend
When setting the Blend control on the Keeley Compressor Plus, finding the right balance between the dry and effect signal is crucial. For a subtle compression, try setting the Blend control around 9 o’clock, which provides a good mix of the compressed and dry signals. If you prefer a more prominent compression effect, setting the Blend control closer to 3 o’clock lets the compressed signal dominate. Adjusting the Blend control to different positions allows you to fine-tune the amount of compression to suit various playing styles, from fingerstyle to heavy strumming or picking. By experimenting with the Blend control, you can achieve the ideal compression level that complements your unique playing style.
Sustain
The Keeley Compressor Plus is a versatile pedal that can enhance the sustain of your guitar. Adjusting the compression level is crucial to achieve the desired sustain. For lower dynamics, setting the compression level low can prevent excessive squashing and retain the natural dynamics of your playing. On the other hand, for higher dynamics, increasing the compression level can help smooth out the peaks and offer a more even sustain. Experimenting with the sustain settings can help you find the perfect balance for your playing style and tone.
Level
The Level control on the Keeley Compressor Plus allows you to adjust the output volume, ensuring that your compressed signal matches the level of your unaffected signal. When setting the output volume, it’s important to match the level with other pedals in your signal chain to maintain a consistent and balanced sound. By carefully adjusting the Level control, you can achieve a smooth and even tone, whether you’re using the compressor for subtle dynamics control or as a prominent effect in your signal path.
Tone
When setting up your Keeley Compressor Plus, consider the following tips to achieve warm and bright tones:
1. Attack and Release: Adjust the attack and release knobs to control the sharpness and sustain of the notes for a warmer sound. Increase attack for a smoother and warmer tone, and adjust release to extend the sustain for brighter tones.
2. Ratio and Sustain: Set the ratio for higher sustain and smoother compression, ideal for warmer tones. Increase the sustain to enhance the brightness and clarity of the notes.
3. Blend and Tone Control: Using the blend knob, mix the compressed signal with the dry signal to retain dynamics and achieve warm, natural tones. Adjust the tone control to contour the sound brightness, emphasizing high frequencies for brighter tones or rolling off highs for warmer tones.
Attack
The attack setting on the Keeley Compressor Plus pedal plays a crucial role in managing note definition. By adjusting the attack, you can control the speed at which compression is applied to your guitar signal. A fast attack setting is ideal for enhancing the sustain of your notes and chords, while a slow attack can be used to maintain the transient detail of your playing. Experimenting with these settings allows you to tailor the compression response to match your playing style and musical genre.
Solo Play
The Keeley Compressor Plus is a versatile pedal that can help you achieve great solo tones. To make your solos stand out, start with a low blend setting to maintain your guitar’s natural tone. Increase the sustain knob to enhance note sustain and make your phrasing more expressive. Adjust the level knob to match the compression effect to the sound of your guitar. Experiment with the tone control to find the right balance between brightness and warmth. This will provide your solos with the necessary clarity and presence. Additionally, utilizing the attack and release controls can further refine the dynamics and responsiveness of your playing. Remember to tweak these settings based on your playing style and the specific sound you aim to achieve.
Rhythm Guitar
The Keeley Compressor Plus can be a powerful tool for dialing in the perfect compression settings for a rhythm guitar’s sound. To achieve a tight rhythm section, start with a low ratio setting and adjust the attack and release knobs to control the transient response. Experiment with the sustain control to find the right balance between dynamic range and a consistent, leveled sound. Additionally, consider using the blend knob to mix the compressed signal with the dry signal for added tone transparency. These settings can help maintain the punch and definition of a rhythm guitar within a mix without sacrificing its dynamics.
Fingerpicking
When using the Keeley Compressor Plus for fingerpicking, it’s important to adjust the settings to achieve optimal sound. Start with the sustain knob at 12 o’clock and set the blend knob at 9 o’clock to maintain the dynamics of your picking. Next, adjust the level knob to balance the output. For subtle fingerpicking, a lower sustain setting and higher level may be preferable, whereas for a more aggressive style, increasing the sustain can enhance the attack. Experimenting with the tone control can also add warmth or brightness to your fingerstyle sound. Consider trying different settings to find the perfect balance for your playing style.
Band Setting
Band Setting: When using the Keeley Compressor Plus in a band setting, it’s essential to achieve balance in the group mix. Start by dialing in the compression control to even out the playing dynamics, providing a consistent volume without compromising the instrument’s natural tone. Adjust the sustain knob to extend the note’s sustain, helping notes to bloom and sing. Utilize the level knob to match the compressed signal with the dry signal, ensuring a smooth overall sound. Experiment with different settings to find the optimal balance for your specific band setup.
Blues Tone Mastery
The Keeley Compressor Plus is a versatile pedal that can significantly enhance your blues tone. By setting the sustain and level controls to moderate levels, you can achieve smooth compression without sacrificing the natural dynamics of your playing. Adjusting the blend control allows you to maintain the articulate attack of each note, while the tone control fine-tunes the overall color of the compressed signal. For a more subtle effect, using lower settings on the sustain and level controls can retain the dynamics of your playing, adding subtle warmth to your tone. It’s essential to experiment with these settings to find the perfect balance that harnesses the soulful essence of blues music.
Rock Rig Essentials
The Keeley Compressor Plus pedal is a versatile tool for crafting punchy rock tones. When setting up your rock rig, it’s important to consider the compressor’s impact on your overall sound. Start by adjusting the sustain and blend controls to find the right balance of sustain and attack. Experiment with the level control to ensure that the compressed signal matches the bypassed signal in volume. Fine-tune the tone control to sculpt the frequency response and tailor the compression to your liking. Consider using the pedal in conjunction with overdrive and distortion pedals to further shape your rock sound. Whether you prefer a subtle touch of compression or more aggressive squash, the Keeley Compressor Plus offers a wealth of possibilities for crafting your ideal rock tones.
Country Twang Tweaks
When setting up your Keeley Compressor Plus for classic country twang, start with the Sustain knob at 9 o’clock and the Blend knob at 12 o’clock. This will give you a good starting point for achieving the snap and sparkle characteristic of a country guitar. If you want to enhance the attack and snap even further, consider raising the Blend knob to around 2 o’clock. For a more pronounced compression effect, gradually increase the Sustain knob while keeping an ear out for any excessive squashing of the sound. It’s important to maintain a balance between sustain and dynamics. Experiment with these settings to fine-tune your tone and bring out that classic country twang.
Jazz’s Smooth Ambience
When setting the Keeley Compressor Plus for a smooth jazz sound, it is crucial to find the perfect balance between sustaining notes and maintaining dynamics. To achieve this, start by setting the Sustain knob at around 10 o’clock to enhance sustain without compromising the instrument’s natural dynamic range. Next, adjust the Blend and Level knobs to amplify the nuances of the music while keeping the overall volume in check. For a warmer tone, consider adding a touch of high-end compression with the Tone control. It’s also essential to experiment with the attack and release times to tailor the compression to your playing style. By fine-tuning these settings, you can create a mellow jazz tone that exudes elegance and sophistication.
Tips For Live Performances
For live performances, adjusting the Keeley Compressor Plus settings on stage can make a significant difference in your sound quality. Start by finding the optimal pedal placement to ensure the best results. Experiment with the compression and sustain knobs to achieve the desired dynamic range and sustain without sacrificing the natural tone of your instrument. Keep in mind the attack and release settings, as they can impact the overall feel and response of your playing. It’s important to fine-tune the settings based on the specific sound requirements of each performance, ensuring that your Keeley Compressor Plus enhances your overall sound without overpowering it. By carefully managing the settings during live performances, you can maximize the potential of your Keeley Compressor Plus and elevate your on-stage sound.
Achieving Studio-quality Sound
When setting up your Keeley Compressor Plus for recording sessions, ensure you maintain consistency in the studio. Start with the Sustain knob at 12 o’clock to achieve a balanced level of compression. Use the Blend control to blend in the compressed signal with the dry signal, allowing for natural dynamics. Adjust the Tone control to fine-tune the brightness of the compressed signal to fit the mix. Experiment with the Level control to ensure the output matches the input level. These settings will help you achieve a studio-quality sound while recording.
Compressor Plus With Other Effects
When using the Keeley Compressor Plus with other effects, consider the stacking orders to achieve a richer sound. Start by placing the compressor before the overdrive or distortion pedals to control the dynamics going into the dirt pedals. This setup can result in more sustain and a tighter sound. For a smoother, more balanced sound, position the compressor after the drive pedals. The compressor can also work well with modulation effects like chorus or phaser when placed before them in the signal chain. Additionally, consider using the Keeley Compressor Plus with complementary pedals such as EQ and reverb to enhance the overall tone and dynamics. Experimenting with different stacking orders and pedal combinations can lead to unique and personalized sounds tailored to your playing style.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you are experiencing noise or sustain issues with your Keeley Compressor Plus, consider the following tips:
- Check the power source and cables for any interference or grounding issues.
- Adjust the attack and release knobs to find the right balance for noise reduction.
- Ensure the pedal is not placed near any electronic devices or sources of interference.
- Experiment with the blend and sustain controls to find the ideal compression level.
- Double-check the input and output levels to ensure they are optimized for your setup.
- Consider using a noise gate pedal in conjunction with the Keeley Compressor Plus to manage unwanted sustain.
Pros Share Their Setup
Pros Share Their Setup: Insights from seasoned guitarists who have incorporated the Keeley Compressor Plus into their professional rigs reveal a range of versatile settings. Varying attack, sustain, and blend levels offer nuanced compression, catering to individual playing styles. Gently tweak the tone control for subtle coloration, and experiment with the level knob for optimal signal balance. Engage the soft switch for a smoother attack, while the hard switch yields a more aggressive compression curve. Feedback from these experts emphasizes the unit’s adaptability and transparent compression, making it an essential addition to any pedalboard.
Frequently Asked Questions For Keeley Compressor Plus Settings
What Are The Recommended Settings For Keeley Compressor Plus?
The recommended settings for Keeley Compressor Plus should start with the sustain and level controls at 12 o’clock, adjust the tone to preference, and make fine adjustments to suit your playing style and gear for optimum performance and dynamics.
How Does Keeley Compressor Plus Enhance Guitar Tone?
The Keeley Compressor Plus enhances guitar tone by evening out the dynamics, adding sustain, and smoothing out peaks and valleys, resulting in a more polished and professional sound. Its versatile controls allow for a wide range of tonal possibilities, making it an essential tool for any guitarist.
Can Keeley Compressor Plus Be Used For Bass Guitar?
Yes, the Keeley Compressor Plus can be used for bass guitar. Its transparent compression and blend control allow for subtle yet effective compression, bringing out the best in a bass guitar’s dynamics without sacrificing its low-end punch and clarity. It’s a valuable tool for bassists seeking a polished and controlled sound.
Conclusion
The Keeley Compressor Plus offers a wide range of settings to enhance your sound. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this versatile pedal can take your tone to new heights. Experiment with the various controls to find your perfect compression settings and elevate your playing experience.
Unlock the full potential of your sound with the Keeley Compressor Plus.