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MGR/Laklander MGR/Laklander

« EBS Bass MultiComp True Dual Band MultiCompressor »

Published on 12/01/09 at 15:00
Standard stompbox size floor pedal compressor for bass. Black case with blue and white screening. Compression/Limier sensitivity knob, Gain knob. Three-position toggle for tube/solid state/multiband compression. Active/Passive pushbutton; In and Out 14' jacks. 9V AC adapter not included.
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I've played bass professionally for 44 years. I currently play in a praise band in a local church and also do studio work. I favor rock but have played just about every style, even -- shame -- disco. Favorite players include Paul McCartney, James Jamerson, Tony Levin, Chris Squire, Joe Osborn, Bob Glaub and Sting.<p>
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Purchased in April 2009 from Musiciansfriend. I'm a fan of Tony Levin, who uses compression as an integral part of his sound. I also wanted to add compression to even out peaks in my signal and to add some 'sparkle' and sustain in live situations. MSRP: $249; Paid $199.

The EBS MultiComp does make a big difference in my live sound, especially on a bass strung with roundwounds. It adds presence and a massive amount of sustain and allows a small bass amp to compete with three cranked guitars. Tweaking the compression amount and gain controls allows me to get more presence and gain from my amp without pushing the volume up. Once I started using it, I couldn't play without it. Three compression bands allow tonal variation, but I found the difference between solid state and multiband compression to be basically indistinguishable. However, the tube compression does add some warmth. There is no discernible signal degradation or loss of tone.

The unit eats a 9V battery in about six hours of constant use, and there is no battery compartment, so pack a screwdriver to take off the bottom plate. Although there is a pilot LED that glows less brightly when battery life is draining, I found that there's very little warning -- it's there one second and gone the next. There is a 9V CA adapter available for around $20, and I recommend getting one.

Built very well -- heavy gauge steel and a heavy toggle IN/OUT footswitch. Rubber pad on the back to stop slippage. Seems more sturdily built than Boss effects.

The EBS Bass MulitCompressor is a good value, although $200 for a single-trick stompbox might seem high. It adds presence, definition, clarity and sustain to active or passive basses.

This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com