Publius

For a very long time I was using a CS3 compressor before the preamp of my DSL100. Yesterday I decided to place it after the preamp, in the FX loop I did saw a change in sound. The compressor did not pushed the preamp tubes but the amps tubes.
Notice that I did not change the settings on the CS3 in order to see the difference. The sound was not thin as the CS3 tends to make it but the attack was different not actually bad but not quite right for my ears. Sustain on the other hand was far clearer.
Now I know there is no right or wrong regarding the taste in sound but is there technical aspect that I may need to consider. Will compression at the final stage of the amp wear off the tubes faster? Are there any other aspects to consider? Has anyone done that before?


P.S. CS3 generates even more noise at that stage especially on gain channel but I think over time I will be able to overcome that problem by purchasing a Keeley or a T-Rex comps that are so noisy and don't color the sound.

__________________

steelhorse

Get the Retro-Sonic comp. I've had the Keeley and the T-rex and the Retro-Sonic for some reason is not only quieter and cleaner, but is movre versatile and sounds just as good with high gain leads then it does with cleans.

__________________
"Man who says it cannot be done, should not interrupt man who is doing it!"

sojatriani

It could, maybe, wear the tubes faster if you push them with a squeeze on, but it would push the pre amp tubes, well, you may be inclined to push the preamp harder to get your sound, as the signal has not reached the power section until after the comp. Good question though, anybody.....

__________________
Marshall 92 JCM 900 4101/running thru 1936 212 cab
Marshall 2008 Vintage Modern half stack
1975 VOX AC30 with extension cab
Peavey Classic 50 212

'85 Les paul
'74 strat
2002 American Deluxe Strat/Fat 50's
2004 Richie Sambora Strat
1997 USA Roadhouse Strat
1992 Ibanez RG 550