i8mrshmelo

as far as recording and playing, I use a compressor to control the peak of the signal (it limits the dynamic range) so I can bring up the signal volume w/o distorting (the bad kind ). This gives it a more upfront sound and makes it easier to gate low level unwanted noise without affecting the intended signal. It also smooths out the overall signal dynamics to keep it even (think of reggae, funk strumming and how each strum can vary in loudness). It also adds a bit of sustain. you just need a little compression on guitar unless you're using it as an effect. And it shouldn't be noticable or it's set too high. Then maybe lower the threshold and ratio a bit and try again.

D.Dailey

The Tone From Heaven: Effects Explained