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Empress Bass Compressor
Reviews

Empress Bass Compressor: Pedal Review

A Compressor That Demands — and Rewards — Your Attention Lately, we’ve been diving deep into the world of bass compression. We’ve explored vintage options like the Boss CS-2, modern heavy-hitters like the Origin Cali76, and even budget picks such as the TC Electronic SpectraComp. But when it comes to modern, studio-grade options in a pedal format, there are only a few standout choices that consistently show up in serious discussions. The Origin Cali76, the Diamond Compressor, and today’s focus: the Empress Bass Compressor. Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Empress Effects for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinions or the content of our reviews. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information. Overview The Empress Bass Compressor is specifically voiced for bass, with a frequency response of 10Hz–20kHz. It features an all-analog signal path, true bypass switching, and detailed multi-segment metering for both input and gain reduction. With a mix knob for parallel compression, an external sidechain input, and a variable high-pass filter, this pedal is easily one of the most feature-rich compressors on the market. Out of the box, it delivers a studio-level feature set, packed into a compact pedal chassis. While many pedal compressors simplify their layout to appeal to casual users, the Empress goes the opposite route: full metering, independent attack and release controls, mix knob, sidechain capabilities, ratio control, and even a two-position Tone + Colour switch that adds subtle tone shaping and harmonic coloration. For those unfamiliar with compression, the included manual does a fantastic job. It covers basic compression theory and offers sample settings to help get you started. This is a big win considering the pedal’s complexity. Let’s take a look at the features one by one. Key Features Explained Input and Gain Reduction Metering Many pedal compressors either skip metering altogether or offer a minimal version. Not the Empress. This pedal provides full metering for both input signal and gain reduction — a huge asset for both live and studio use. Input Control Sets the input level going into the compression circuit. Higher input levels = more compression. Output Control Sets the post-compression output level. This helps balance volume loss from compression, or can be used as a clean boost (fun fact: Empress officially supports bass solos — and so do we at BassGearReviews.com). Attack Controls how quickly the compressor reacts once the signal exceeds the threshold. Release Controls how quickly the compressor stops compressing after the signal drops below the threshold. Mix (Parallel Compression) Blends the dry (uncompressed) and wet (compressed) signals. This is essential for maintaining natural dynamics while gaining sustain — a hallmark of parallel compression. Sidechain High-Pass Filter Filters out low frequencies from the sidechain signal (from 20Hz to 400Hz). This lets you prevent low-end thumps from triggering compression too aggressively — great for slap, pick playing, or sidechaining. Ratio Determines how aggressively the compressor clamps down on peaks. The Empress offers: Tone + Colour Control This flexibility makes the pedal appealing to both camps: those chasing transparency and those looking for a bit of character in their tone. Bypass Switch Standard footswitch for true bypass on/off. Understanding Sidechain Compression Sidechain compression uses an external signal to trigger compression on your main signal (your bass). For example, if you run a kick drum into the sidechain, the bass will duck slightly each time the kick hits — useful for mixing clarity. The Empress includes a 1/8″ sidechain input for this purpose. The incoming sidechain signal doesn’t pass through the pedal’s output — it’s purely used to trigger compression. If no sidechain is connected, the high-pass filter affects how your bass signal triggers the compression. Performance and Use The Empress Bass Compressor is extremely versatile. Whether you’re looking for smooth and transparent compression, dynamic control for fingerstyle, punch for slap, or even brick-wall limiting, this pedal handles it all. However, this is not a plug-and-play pedal. It demands some understanding — or at least curiosity — to get the most out of it. Thankfully, the included manual provides an excellent starting point. Pros Studio-Grade Features in a Pedal FormatUnparalleled control in a stompbox: input/output level, metering, attack/release, parallel compression, sidechain HPF — rare even in rack units. Transparent and Musical CompressionThe 2:1 and 4:1 settings offer clean, musical compression that retains dynamics and preserves your playing style. Tone Shaping FlexibilityWith optional mid scoop/boost and harmonic distortion, the Tone + Colour switch adds useful character without locking you into one sound. Full LED MeteringVisual feedback for both input and gain reduction makes setting levels precise and intuitive. Parallel CompressionBlend dry and compressed signals for a more musical, natural result — especially useful for bass. Sidechain High-Pass FilterProfessional-level sidechain control in a pedal. Great for slap, pick, and studio sidechain mixing. Clear, Helpful ManualDespite the complexity, Empress makes learning accessible with clear diagrams and starter settings. True Bypass + Analog PathKeeps your tone untouched when bypassed, free of digital artifacts. Cons Steep Learning CurveNot ideal for compression beginners or those who want to “set it and forget it.” Limited Ratio OptionsOnly 3 ratio settings. While well-chosen, some might want more granularity (e.g., 6:1 or 8:1). Premium Price PointYou get what you pay for, but this might be out of reach for more casual players. 1/8” Sidechain InputInconvenient for some setups — may require adapters or custom cables. Conclusion: A Compressor That Demands — and Rewards — Your Attention The Empress Bass Compressor isn’t just another pedal — it’s a studio-grade tool packed into a rugged stompbox. It’s easily one of the most powerful and transparent compressors available to bassists, offering detailed control over every aspect of your dynamic range. What sets it apart is its complexity — and that’s intentional. Empress built this for players who want control. If you’re the kind of bassist who likes to tweak, shape, and perfect your tone, this pedal will deliver in spades. But make no

April 9, 2025 No Comments
Helix Obsidian distortion
Reviews

Helix Obsidian 7000 Dist: Pedal Review

The Helix Take on Darkglass For modern bass players, few distortion pedals have made as much impact as the Darkglass Microtubes B7K Ultra. Known for its aggressive yet articulate tone, it has become a go-to choice for players seeking clarity, punch, and saturation without sacrificing low-end presence. In the world of amp modeling and digital effects, Line 6 has taken a swing at this classic with the Obsidian 7000 Dist in the Helix ecosystem. But how well does it hold up? And is it a worthy alternative to the real thing? Let’s dive in. The Darkglass Legacy and the Obsidian Interpretation The Darkglass B7K Ultra is a staple for bass players looking for a modern, high-gain drive with a powerful EQ section. It excels at cutting through dense mixes, thanks to its combination of drive, blend, and a 4-band EQ with selectable mids. The B7K Ultra also features attack and grunt switches, allowing for more control over harmonic content and low-end response. The Obsidian 7000 Dist in the Helix is Line 6’s digital interpretation of this beloved pedal. It mimics the B7K Ultra’s core tonal characteristics, offering similar EQ flexibility, blend control, and gain structure. However, being part of the Helix ecosystem means it also benefits from digital convenience, routing flexibility, and total recall—something a standalone analog pedal can’t quite match. How Close Is the Tone? Sonically, the Obsidian 7000 Dist does an impressive job capturing the spirit of the B7K Ultra. The drive characteristics are sharp and articulate, allowing notes to remain defined even under heavy distortion. The blend control is just as essential here as in the original, letting you mix in the clean signal to preserve low-end punch. The EQ section offers a similarly sculpted response, with the selectable mids doing a great job of tailoring the attack and presence. Where the differences start to show is in the feel and responsiveness. The analog circuitry of the B7K Ultra gives it a certain warmth and organic response that digital modeling—while close—doesn’t completely replicate. Some players might find the Helix version slightly more compressed, though in a mix, this is hardly noticeable. Usability and Practical Benefits What the Obsidian 7000 Dist lacks in analog “mojo,” it makes up for in versatility and integration. Since it’s part of the Helix, you can: For touring or session musicians, this level of convenience and recall can outweigh the tonal nuances of the analog counterpart. Final Verdict: Worth Using? If you’re a bass player looking for the B7K Ultra sound within the Helix, the Obsidian 7000 Dist is absolutely worth using. It delivers a convincing modern distortion tone, captures the essence of the Darkglass circuit, and provides Helix-exclusive flexibility that the standalone pedal can’t offer. However, if you’re a purist who values the feel and slight harmonic differences of analog gear, the real B7K Ultra may still be your best bet. That said, for live use, recording, and ease of integration, the Obsidian 7000 Dist is a fantastic tool that proves once again why Helix remains one of the best multi-effects platforms for bassists.

April 2, 2025 No Comments
TC Electronic SpectraComp
Reviews

TC Electronic SpectraComp: Pedal Review

Where Simplicity Meets Compression The TC Electronic SpectraComp is a compact, digital multiband compressor designed specifically for bass players. Unlike traditional single-band compressors, it applies compression independently to different frequency ranges, ensuring a more balanced, natural sound. Featuring a one-knob control, it is designed for simplicity, while the TonePrint feature allows for deep customization. But does it deliver? Let’s break it down. One-Knob Control – How It Works While it may seem limiting at first, the one-knob control actually adjusts multiple parameters simultaneously, including: What Happens When You Turn the Knob? Since the pedal is multiband, it compresses lows, mids, and highs separately, preventing unwanted pumping and retaining clarity. This is especially useful for bassists who want even dynamics without squashing their tone. Sound & Performance Transparent & Musical Compression: Unlike heavy-handed compressors that color your sound, SpectraComp remains natural. Enhances Consistency: Levels out dynamics while preserving attack and note articulation. Ideal for Various Playing Styles: Works well for fingerstyle, slap bass, and pick playing. No Muddy Lows or Harsh Highs: The multiband design ensures balance across all frequencies. No Gain Reduction Meter: Makes it hard to see how much compression is applied in real-time. TonePrint Customization The one-knob design is great for simplicity, but if you want more control, the TonePrint app allows you to: Pros & Cons Pros:✅ Compact & sturdy design✅ Multiband compression for a natural, balanced tone✅ Simple one-knob operation✅ TonePrint customization for advanced users✅ Transparent sound that retains dynamics Cons:❌ No onboard controls for detailed tweaking❌ No visual gain reduction meter❌ Digital sound may not appeal to analog purists Conclusion The TC Electronic SpectraComp is one of the best compact bass compressors available today. The one-knob design makes it effortless to use, while the TonePrint feature provides deep editing for those who want more control. Its multiband compression ensures an even, natural sound, making it an excellent choice for bass players of all styles. However, if you prefer onboard controls and visual feedback, an analog compressor might be a better fit. Best for: Bass players who want an easy, high-quality compressor with minimal fuss and maximum flexibility

April 2, 2025 No Comments
Sushi Box Finally V3
Reviews

Sushi Box Finally V3: Pedal Review

The Ultimate Tube D.I. for Bass Sushi Box Effects has long been known for its high-quality, tube-driven pedals, and the Finally V3 is no exception. The latest evolution of this beloved tube D.I. takes everything that made the previous versions great and refines it even further, making it an essential tool for bassists who demand warmth, clarity, and flexibility in their signal chain. A Legacy of Excellence: Finally V1 & V2 The original Finally was designed as a high-voltage tube D.I., offering rich harmonic saturation and a studio-quality direct output. When Finally V2 was introduced, it improved on the design with refinements to the circuit, making it an even more versatile and musical tool for bass players. With Finally V3, Sushi Box Effects has taken the lessons learned from the previous versions and implemented meaningful upgrades, making it arguably the most refined iteration yet. What Makes Finally V3 Stand Out? Several features set the Finally V3 apart from its predecessors and other tube-driven DI pedals: Why Bass Players Love the Finally V3 The Finally series has always been a favorite among bass players, and the V3 version cements its reputation as one of the best tube D.I. pedals available. Here’s why: Final Verdict The Sushi Box Finally V3 is an amazing choice for any serious bass player looking for superior tone, flexibility, and professional-grade performance. With its tube warmth, enhanced filtering, and independent outputs, it delivers unparalleled control and sound quality—whether you’re playing live or recording in the studio. For bass players who want the best tube-driven D.I. experience, the Finally V3 stands as one of the top contenders on the market today.

March 25, 2025 No Comments
Reviews

HX Regal DI: Pedal Review

The Poor Man’s Noble! The world of bass preamps and DI pedals is full of legendary options, but few have reached the near-mythical status of the Noble Bass Preamp DI. With its warm, rich tones and undeniable studio and stage appeal, the Noble DI has become a must-have for professional bassists. However, with a price tag that hovers around $1,200, it remains out of reach for many players. Enter the Regal Bass DI, a model introduced in Line 6’s Helix 3.70 firmware update. Designed to emulate the beloved Noble DI, the Regal Bass DI aims to provide that coveted tone at a fraction of the cost. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out. Features & Controls The Regal Bass DI includes the core tonal controls found in the Noble DI, giving bass players access to a simple yet effective EQ section. Here’s a breakdown of its features: For Helix users, these features make the Regal Bass DI an easy drop-in for direct recording, live performance, and tone shaping within a digital rig. Regal DI vs. Noble DI: A Comparison So how does the Regal Bass DI compare to the Noble DI? While the Regal DI does a fantastic job emulating the tonal characteristics of the Noble, there are some differences to consider. Tone The Noble DI is known for its tube-driven warmth, which naturally compresses and rounds out the tone in a way that solid-state or digital emulations often struggle to fully replicate. The Regal DI, while very close, lacks the physical 12AX7 tube that gives the Noble DI its signature harmonic richness. However, in a live mix or a recording chain, the difference is subtle and can be compensated with slight EQ and compression tweaks. Feel & Dynamics The Noble DI responds incredibly well to playing dynamics, offering a natural “amp-like” feel. The Regal DI gets remarkably close, especially when paired with other Helix effects like the Retro Reel to simulate the warmth and compression of an analog signal path. Portability & Versatility The Regal Bass DI has a clear advantage in terms of portability and flexibility. With the ability to tweak and integrate seamlessly within the Helix ecosystem, it becomes an incredibly versatile tool for players who need multiple tones at their disposal. The Noble DI, on the other hand, is a dedicated preamp DI with a fixed tonal character, making it less adaptable. Price & Value This is the biggest differentiator: $1,200+ vs. $0 (for existing Helix users). If you already own a Helix, HX Stomp, or Helix Native, the Regal DI is a no-brainer—it gives you 90% of the Noble DI sound for free. If you’re an analog purist who values true tube warmth, then the Noble DI might still be worth the investment. Conclusion The Regal Bass DI is a fantastic addition to the Helix family, offering a realistic and versatile alternative to the Noble DI at a fraction of the cost. While it doesn’t quite capture the full tube magic of the Noble, it gets close enough that most bassists—especially in live and mix contexts—will struggle to tell the difference. If you already own a Helix or HX Stomp, the Regal DI is an absolute steal. But if you’re after the true organic tube warmth, the Noble DI remains the undisputed king. Either way, bass players now have more choices than ever when it comes to dialing in that legendary tone!

March 24, 2025 No Comments

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