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Not all compressor pedals are the same. "VOX delivers again".

Edward Schooley
Posted: May 19, 2025
A compressor pedal is an effects unit used by guitarists, bassists, and other instrumentalists to control the dynamic range of their sound.

Photos provided by: VOX Amplification

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u003cstrongu003eEDITOR IN CHIEF | GUITAR THRILLS MAGAZINE TAMPA, FLu003c/strongu003e

Edward Schooley

Founded in 2021. GUITAR THRILLS MAGAZINE of Tampa, FL Guitar Thrills Magazine of Tampa, FL U.S.A. The GUITAR THRILLS MAGAZINE is excited to bring you some of the music industries finest talent. Including the world of entertainment. Our focus includes the long term goals and aspirations of artists of all sorts. We are an unbiased reporting platform. You are getting insight into the world of music. No, we are not your fathers website for music news. We have grown into our own, and rely upon decades of music experience and knowledge. Guitar Thrills Magazine is a hard act to follow.

David Gilmour of Pink Floyd is widely known for his use of compression pedals, particularly the MXR Dyna Comp, according to Gilmourish.com. He began using compressors in the early 1970s, and the Dyna Comp was a staple on his pedalboard, according to Gilmourish.com. Many other guitarists also utilize compression pedals, including Andy Timmons, Caleb Followill of Kings of Leon, Noel Gallagher of Oasis, and Billie Joe Armstrong.

These are just some of the music’s industries top performing artists that have a need for the effects that a compression pedal provides. Which one compression pedal that is used often comes down to opinion. Our ears hear sounds differently. Our hearing is a special gift and interprets sound on many different levels of frequency.

You may be at a point of a basic knowledge of Compressor pedals. So we would like to review just some main features you are getting from a Compressor pedal:

A compressor pedal is an effects unit used by guitarists, bassists, and other instrumentalists to control the dynamic range of their sound. Here's a breakdown of what it does and why you might want one:

What a Compressor Pedal Does

  • Evens Out Volume: It reduces the volume of loud signals and boosts quieter ones, making your playing more consistent.
  • Sustain Boost: Helps notes ring out longer, which is great for solos or melodic playing.
  • Tone Shaping: Adds thickness, smoothness, or snap depending on settings and pedal design.
  • Attack & Punch: Enhances the percussive attack of notes—great for funk, country, or slap bass.

Key Controls (Varies by Pedal)

  • Threshold: Level at which compression starts.
  • Ratio: How much compression is applied.
  • Attack/Release: Controls how quickly the compressor reacts to signals.
  • Sustain: Adjusts how long your signal is held/compressed.
  • Level/Output: Sets final output volume after compression.

Popular Types

  • Transparent Compressors (e.g. Wampler Ego, Keeley Compressor Plus): Maintain natural tone while compressing.
  • Colored Compressors (e.g. MXR Dyna Comp, Vox Snake Charmer): Add noticeable tonal coloration and character.
  • Tube Compressors (e.g. Vox Smooth Impact): Add warmth and vintage dynamics using vacuum tube circuits.

Use Cases:

Funk & Country: Essential for that signature “snap” or “twang.”
Clean Chords: Makes rhythm parts punchy and consistent.
Lead Guitar: Adds sustain and smoothness for solos.
Bass Guitar: Controls dynamics and prevents volume spikes.

However, there is some commonality that helps decipher top performing compression pedals. There is also advantages that different compression pedals offer. Not all C-Pedals come from the same mold. Thankfully. Consider just one of our favorites. It is manufactured from one of our favorite amp brands, VOX. I am a HUGE fan of VOX amps. When I got a chance to put my hands on the VOX Smooth impact pedal, I didn’t hesitate. It was just a matter of components. Which guitar was I going to use to get the best out this pedal.

It came down to the following:

Guitar – The Knaggs - Severn X7
Amp – Marshall DSL40
VOX – Smooth Impact Compression Pedal
Song of choice: Zombie by the Cranberries

Note: The chords are simple. However, it comes down to Strumming and timing. An unforgettable riff, with deep meaning as well.

So the first thing you might be thinking is why not use a distortion pedal for this song. Well, think about the chords above. They are not chords you would normally use distortion with. The sound from the chords is similar, that you need a warm tone for the distinct sound. Also, there will be plenty of distortion from your combo or Amp head. Though, not needed for these chords.

The Vox Valvenergy Smooth Impact Compressor Pedal is a unique tube-driven compressor pedal that utilizes Nutube Technology to deliver warm, musical compression. Unlike traditional VCA, optical, or FET compressors, it employs a vacuum circuit, providing a distinct, natural playing feel.

The results from this song and the VOX compressor pedal was exactly what I anticipated. A warm sound with an amazing effect. The VOX Smooth Impact pedal was made for “Zombie”. Actually there is a ton of songs that you can use with this pedal as well. It is always good to have in mind, what the pedal will be used for before making the investment. Keeping in mind, projects or songs will only increase your enthusiasm for this type of purchase.

The highlights from the review of this pedal is as follows:

Key Features:

  • Nutube Technology: Incorporates a genuine vacuum tube (Nutube) to achieve tube-like harmonics and dynamic response.
  •  
  • Three Compression Modes:
    • Vintage (VTG): Offers a clear tone with strong attack and extended sustain, ideal for classic guitar tones.
    • Natural (NAT): Provides a more subtle sound with faster attack and shorter release, perfect for tapping or rhythm playing.
    • Sag (SAG): Replicates the natural compression from vintage tube amps, adding warmth and harmonics, especially useful with digital or transistor amps.
    •  
  • OLED Display: Features a bright display showing the incoming signal and amount of compression, allowing for precise adjustments.
  • Controls: Equipped with Tube Gain, Comp, and Output knobs, along with a three-way voicing/feel switch (VTG/NAT/SAG) for versatile tone shaping.
  • Buffered Bypass: Ensures signal integrity when the pedal is not engaged.
  • Power Requirements: Operates on a 9V DC power supply (600mA minimum required).
  • Dimensions: Measures approximately 4.5" x 2.5" x 1.5".

This product is comparable to the Wampler EGO that we reviewed a while ago. However, there is not the advantage of the VOX pedal that give you the Vintage tone sound that the VOX brand is known for.

Wampler Ego Compressor

  • Price: ~$199
  • Technology: OTA with blend control
  • Compression Modes: N/A (flexible via controls)
  • Strengths:
    • Blend knob for parallel compression
    • Tone control for high-end detail
    • Smooth sustain and minimal noise
  • Best For: Players wanting versatility for both subtle and aggressive settings

Performance:

The Smooth Impact pedal is praised for its ability to add mass and warmth without introducing significant noise. At lower compression levels, it acts as a thickening agent, enhancing the guitar's tone subtly. At higher settings, it delivers snappy, crisp compression without sacrificing overtones. The three compression modes offer subtle yet distinct variations, making it versatile for different playing styles.

While it may not provide the overt coloration of some vintage compressors, its tube-driven design offers a natural and responsive feel, making it suitable for players seeking a more organic compression effect.

Final Thoughts

  • Choose the Smooth Impact if you desire a versatile, modern compressor with tube warmth and multiple compression modes that can adapt to various playing styles.
  • Opt for Wampler EGO you're seeking a compressor that adds significant character and coloration to your tone, suitable for genres that benefit from pronounced compression effects.

Both pedals offer unique features catering to different musical preferences. Consider your specific needs and playing style to select the one that best complements your setup. The price for the VOX Smooth impact pedal will only cost 20.00 more than the Wampler EGO pedal.

We look forward to our continued use of the VOX compressor pedal. A compact pedal that will not take up much space on your rig. So, there is no reason why you shouldn’t make it part of your pedalboard. Feel free to provide feedback on this review, or your experience with the VOX pedal by emailing us at info@guitarthrills.com. Thank you.

PRS Standard 24 Review from Guitar Thrills Magazine Tampa, FL The World of Rock and Blues Magazine.

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