A Guide to Using Compressor Pedals to get David Gilmour's Sound

In this video tutorial, we delve into the world of compressor pedals and their applications in playing Pink Floyd tunes. Michael Banfield showcases various ways to utilize compressor pedals, including individual usage, stacking techniques, and parallel compression. Whether you're a fan of David Gilmour's iconic sound or simply looking to enhance your guitar's dynamics, this guide provides valuable insights and practical demonstrations.

Video: Using Compressor Pedals for Pink Floyd Tunes

Summary

In this video, we explore various compression techniques using different compressor pedals. The following summarizes the key points discussed:

• Heavy Compression (Dyna Comp): The MXR Dyna Comp is known for its association with David Gilmour and delivers an intense compression effect. Although this setting may sound unnatural, it can be balanced by combining it with the natural compression of the amplifier.
• Tube Amp Compression: By adjusting the amplifier settings and adding valve compression, a harmonious blend can be achieved between the pedal compression and the amp's natural overdrive.
• Medium Compression (Boss CS-3): The Boss CS-3 provides a more subtle compression effect, suitable for leveling out the sound. This setting works well for specific parts in Pink Floyd songs.
• Parallel Compression (Cali 76): The Origin Effects Cali 76 pedal offers a studio-style compressor that can be used in parallel compression. By mixing the compressed signal with the original clean signal, a fatter sound is achieved without sacrificing the guitar's natural dynamics.
• Stacked Compressors with Overdrive: Combining different compressors and adding overdrive pedals can yield unique and natural-sounding compression effects. This technique enhances the guitar's tone and allows for greater control over dynamics.
• Stacked Compressors Clean and with Fuzz: When using fuzz pedals, adding an overdrive pedal afterward helps even out the mid-scooped tone and allows it to cut through the mix more effectively.

Benefits of Using Compressor Pedals

Using compressor pedals offers several advantages for guitarists:

• Enhanced dynamics: Compressors can even out the volume discrepancies between soft and loud playing, resulting in a more consistent and controlled sound.
• Fattened and sustained tone: Compression can add sustain and body to your guitar's sound, making it more prominent in the mix.
• Greater control over attack and release: Compressors allow you to shape the attack and release times, giving you more control over the envelope of your notes.
• Improved note articulation: By reducing excessive peaks and boosting quieter notes, compressors can enhance note clarity and articulation.
• Efficient signal management: Compressors can help manage signal levels and prevent unwanted clipping or distortion.

Experimenting with different compression techniques and utilizing compressor pedals can greatly enhance your guitar playing experience. Whether you're aiming to recreate David Gilmour's signature sound or simply seeking more dynamic control over your playing, the versatility of compressor pedals allows for endless possibilities. By combining individual pedal compression, stacking techniques, and parallel compression, you can achieve the desired balance, tone, and musicality in your guitar playing.