Empress Effects Bass Compressor - Silver Sparkle

When we released our original Compressor back in 2011, it quickly became a favourite among guitar and bass players alike who were searching for something more than the typical oversimplified controls found on most compressor pedals. Although our original Compressor sounded great on bass (and still does!) we set out to do even better.

On top of the full range of features and controls normally only seen in high end studio equipment, such as input and gain reduction metering, independent attack and release controls, a mix knob for parallel compression, and an external sidechain insert, we’ve now added a fully variable sidechain high pass filter, and a two position ‘tone + colour’ circuit which adds gentle tone sculpting and harmonic distortion, giving your bass some delicious character.

• FET compressor with transparent, all-analog signal path
• Multi-segment metering for input and gain reduction
• Selectable 2:1, 4:1, and 10:1 ratios
• Sidechain input with selectable high-pass filter
• Mix knob for parallel compression
• Tilt EQ centred at 500Hz
• True bypass switching

Transparent Analog Signal Path

Experience pure analog compression without any digital interference. The Bass Compressor features FET compression that preserves your instrument’s original tone while adding dynamic control. Choose from 2:1, 4:1, and 10:1 compression ratios for a wide range of dynamic control options. Fine-tune the compression characteristics with independent attack and release controls for precise adjustments.

Enhanced Low-End Response and Compact Design

Designed for bassists and extended-range guitarists, the Bass Compressor handles low frequencies from 10Hz to 20Hz with ease. The new enclosure is approximately half the size of the original compressor, saving space on your pedalboard, and is available in blue or silver sparkle finishes.

Advanced Metering and Parallel Compression

Monitor both gain reduction and input levels with separate meters for clear, accurate feedback. Blend uncompressed and compressed signals using the Mix control for New York-style parallel compression.

Tone + Colour and Sidechain Features

The 3-position “Tone + Colour” switch can be set flat, to a mid cut at 500Hz, or to an upper-mid boost at 2kHz as well as optionally adding harmonic distortion for additional warmth and punch. Use the 3.5mm TRS jack send and return for sidechain compression, and adjust the variable high-pass filter from 20Hz to 400Hz for precise control over low-frequency compression.

Input Impedance: 1M

Output Impedance: 2.2k

Frequency Response (-3dB): 10Hz - 20kHz

Distortion: less than 0.1%

Noise: 101dB

Power Input Voltage: 9V DC (Negative tip)

Input Power: 2.1mm barrel (Centre Negative)

Power Consumption: ~100mA

Enclosure Material: Die Cast Aluminum

Input connector: 1/4" Jack

Output connector: 1/4" Jack

Height (including controls): 2.5"

Length: 4.8"

Width: 2.6"

Weight: 1lbs