The Always-On Comp: RAF Mirage or Mad Professor FGC CB

[AdventEch0]

I need a compressor to sweeten my tone and keep my dynamics in check without me having to fiddle with it too often.

The Mirage seems almost perfect for this - subtle and simple - but I'm worried that I might eventually need more compression than the Mirage can offer.

So my question to the good TGP'ers of the world:

Can the MP FGC compress as subtly as the Mirage on it's lower ratio settings (i.e. its sustain mode)?

If it can, I'd rather go with the FGC, since it has a little bit more versatility. If it can't, though, I'd have to go for the subtle, simplistic qualities the Mirage seems to excel in.

[66Park]

You might want to check the Effectrode compressor out. It's the best pedal compressor I've ever played. http://www.effectrode.com/website/ph...essor_main.htm
It will do what you want it to do, and everything else you could want a compressor to do. It can be completely transparent or completely squashed, and it's absolutely simple to use.

[AdventEch0]

I've looked at the Effectrode and it seems like an awesome compressor...but it's just too costly for me Thanks for the feedback though.

Anybody who's used both the Mirage and the FGC wanna chime in?

[66Park]

Originally Posted by AdventEch0

I've looked at the Effectrode and it seems like an awesome compressor...but it's just too costly for me Thanks for the feedback though.

Anybody who's used both the Mirage and the FGC wanna chime in?

Ah...you must be looking at the PCB Mad Professor. The hand wired one is about the same price as the Effectrode.

[geodr]

I liked the Mirage the best for an "always on" subtle tone enhancer, but kept the MP FGC CB version for a little more flexibility and to my ears almost as good tone. Liked em both better than the Diamond, btw.

[clc12rock]

FWIW I love my RAF Mirage. Never tried the FGC tho. I use mine in conjunction with an AM Mini BiComp so I can get squash from that.

And 66park, that Effectrode Comp is redonk expensive. It'd have to sound REALLY good for me to buy that. Only comp I'd spend that kinda loot on is a vintage Ross, but I'm also a huge Trey Anastasio fan.

[66Park]

Originally Posted by clc12rock

FWIW I love my RAF Mirage. Never tried the FGC tho. I use mine in conjunction with an AM Mini BiComp so I can get squash from that.

And 66park, that Effectrode Comp is redonk expensive. It'd have to sound REALLY good for me to buy that. Only comp I'd spend that kinda loot on is a vintage Ross, but I'm also a huge Trey Anastasio fan.

Different strokes, I guess. I'd never spend that much on a vintage Ross, but to me, the Effectrode was worth every cent. It's REALLY that good.

[Godspeed64]

Always on compressor sounds like a job for Farndurk!

My compressor of choice is a MIJ CS-2. Best bang for the buck to me!

[timmerel]

He's right about the Effectrode. I sold the first hand made Custom BJF Pine Green Deluxe because it messed with the tone too much for my tastes (similar views on the very nice Diamond Compressor), and the Effectrode is the only "always on" compressor that really enhances the tone that I have encountered.

Not cheap, but for good reason.

And they have a decent return policy if it's not your thing.

[66Park]

Originally Posted by timmerel

He's right about the Effectrode. I sold the first hand made Custom BJF Pine Green Deluxe because it messed with the tone too much for my tastes (similar views on the very nice Diamond Compressor), and the Effectrode is the only "always on" compressor that really enhances the tone that I have encountered.

Not cheap, but for good reason.

And they have a decent return policy if it's not your thing.

Wow! Someone who agrees with me! I always feel like it's an uphill climb recommending the Effectrode, and everyone always complains about the price. There is nothing I've ever heard in a pedal that is even close to it, and it's the only pedal compressor I've ever really loved the sound and feel of. Personally, I'd rather spend a few more dollars to have something that really knocks me out. Buying the Effectrode was a no brainer for me after I heard the clips and read about it.

[zosozep7]

I can't speak for the Mirage but my FGC has recently made me sell my Keeley and I took back the Ego. I'm saving up now for the Effectrode! Man do I really want one! I know they're a little expensive but I think it will be the last comp I buy.

[66Park]

I know they're a little expensive but I think it will be the last comp I buy.

I know it is the last comp I'll buy. I have absolutely no interest in any other compressor. There's nothing that I would want a compressor to do that the Effectrode doesn't do brilliantly.

[IRG]

I just picked up the FGC cb. Love it. Really wasn't sure I wanted another compressor - I've never owned a higher end one before. But this has exceeded my expectations. I like that it has both a compressor and sustain setting. I seemed to be using the sustain more right now. I would also view this as an always on sort of pedal. Everythign just sounds better with it on. My tone seems kinda naked without it now. It also functions as a booster for me too, it pushes my dirt pedals a little bit more which is nice.

I'm sure the Effectrode is nice, I know nothing about the Mirage, but the FGC is a winner in my book.

[playthecray]

My RAF Mirage is always on. It is a great tone enhancing pedal, especially with single coils.

[Seegs]

I'd throw an Okko Coca Comp into the ring as an always on optical tone enhancer...

Chow,
Seegs