non-compressed signals . Most recordings use this technique . Lastly , the Compress knob sets your ratio , which on the rackmount 1176 version can be 4 , 8 , 12 , and even 20-to-1 ratio . The rackmount 1176 also has the notso-secret “ Brit Mode ,” which happens when all the buttons are pushed in at once , giving a very bold compression , fantastic for drums , etc . The EGO 76 emulates this mode when the Compress knob is turned all the way up .
IN USE : I like that the pedal jacks are on top because you can squeeze more pedals on your board . The first thing I did was to remove the battery , so I didn ’ t have that unexpected , weird thing happen one day when the battery died . I like that the feet came separate so I could immediately slap on some Velcro to the bottom . The Level knob has a ton of clean gain . That means you could also use the EGO 76 as a nice clean boost . The Tone circuit is voiced beautifully . It ’ s not stealing low-end but adding extra sizzle on top of it . The pedal is very quiet , too .
If you are familiar with how compressors work , you will appreciate the attention to detail , especially regarding the compressor circuit . The original rackmount 1176 compressor would typically be fed by the guitar amp microphone and pre-amp in the control room . Brian has done a great job adapting the FET circuit for use in the pedalboard signal chain . In the studio , I lean towards always-on compression . If a rackmount 1176 is also in the control room , I might back off what ’ s coming from my pedalboard . I have an always-on compressor on my board to lightly control peaks and add a bit of sustain . The EGO76 does this perfectly by adjusting the Ratio and Blend knob to taste . I was able to get a very transparent compression and not lose the beauty of picking dynamics . Alternatively , with the Compress knob cranked to “ Brit Mode ”, I got a very punchy , aggressive sound perfect for spanky rhythms and classic L . A . single note R & B pickin ’.
On Bass , the EGO 76 shines too . Some Bass guys prefer the optical-type compressor , but to my ears , this is a beautiful option for live bass . I loved the sound and feel . It handled thumb poppin ’, picking , and fingers well , and with the Release set slower , it gave plenty of sustain that bass players rely on .
MY TAKEAWAY : Brian Wampler has done an excellent job designing this compressor . Whether you are a Worship , Rock , Pop , Country , or studio guitarist , you ’ ll get a lot of mileage from this pedal . It ’ s a solid choice for bass , too . One of the best Compressor pedals I ’ ve heard using the 1176-type circuit . I hope you get to check it out .
$ 199.00 www . WamplerPedals . com
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