Mark van Allen
From:
Watkinsville, Ga. USA
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Posted 30 Dec 2008 11:28 am |
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Hi, Ben. A stompbox type compressor would be useful in getting more of an "effected" sound, some of Buddy Emmons' 80's work had a kind of bwarmpy attack that was probably an envelope follower, you can get a similar sound from a stomp compressor.
For recordings, they're often used to more subtly contain the signal, and when used well are often nearly inaudible. You can also use "studio" compressors for noticeable effect, but I think that would be for a one-song special effect intention.
There are many kinds, I love my Empirical Labs Distressor, but I use it more for drums, acoustic guitar and vocals. They are fairly pricy at around $1800. In the mid price range, JoeMeek makes some nice stuff. Their equalizers sound nice with steel. A couple of very nice cheaper compressors are the RNC and ART Pro VLA.
I usually don't track or play steel through a compressor unless I want an effected or pumping sound. I seem to be able to control dynamics well enough with volume pedal and right hand technique. That being said, at some of the recording studios I work, they never track steel through compressors, and others ALWAYS do. Many of the studios prefer Manley and Avalon vocal processors for steel compression.
Honestly, in many cases, I think they've got so much invested in their preamps they feel they have to use them.  |
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