Since its inception in 2001, the Keeley Compressor has become an absolute staple pedal on pedalboards all over the world, with more than 52,000 having been sold (so far). Beginning with the classic 2-knob version, the compression effects coming out of the Keeley camp have taken on several different forms, some combination effects and today’s pedal, the Compressor Plus. Building on the original with a couple more options and that same killer tone, this one had become a staple in its own right as well.
Touted as an advancement over the 2 and 4-knob versions of their Compressor, the Keeley Plus features some wonderful controls that will enhance your sound and make your playing pop at every turn. The Level knob adjusts the gain that can be lost in compression, allowing you to still stand out in the mix. Sustain adjusts the compression ration and increases the sustain your notes and chords will produce. The Blend knob is great for getting just the right amount of both the compressed and uncompressed signals, retaining the peaks in your playing and the proper phasing of your guitar signal.
A new Tone control on the Compressor Plus emphasizes the most sensitive harmonics that can be lost in compression, adding in some brightness where you need it most. There’s also a new Release switch that lets you choose between Single Coils and Humbuckers, without having to figure out the right amount of Attack and Release. This allows your humbuckers remain true sounding, and each note retaining dynamic attack and definition, with just the flick of a switch.
In addition, the Compressor Plus is a compressor with an expander/sustainer, adding in more and more gain as notes fade out, along with just the right amount of sustain and expressive bloom to your notes. A tried-and-true industry standard for almost 2 decades, this latest version has been tweaked and perfected, giving you a smooth wash that leaps out of any amp it comes into contact with. Another pedal marvel from one of the best, cheers to Robert and the entire Keeley Electronics staff for continuing to push the sonic envelope and put out some of the best gear in existence. Check out our demo below, and, if you don’t already have one, go grab a Compressor Plus for yourself!
GET EXCLUSIVE UPDATES, CONTEST INFO, SEE OUR LATEST DEMO VIDEOS AND MORE:
