Altec Lansing 1591A

The Altec Lansing 1591 A is a hardware compressor. It has XLR connections in the back and is quite easy to follow in general. It is an all analog unit, and it is a rackable effect, that will take up two rack space units.

UTILIZATION

The general configuration of the Lansing 1591 A couldn't be easier to figure out. It has three knobs - one for mic gain, one of line gain, and one to set the threshold of the compression. It then has a switch to choose between two settings of release time. It is quite easy to get a good sound from this, as it is easy to figure out how to use. I don't have a manual for this, so I can't speak to how helpful it is or not, but you should be able to get a good sound from this without the manual.

SOUND QUALITY

The sound quality of the Altec Lansing 1591 A compressor is pretty awesome. It will add punch to your sound without coloring it. I've used it mostly on electric and acoustic guitars, drums, and bass guitar, but is suitable for just about anything. Getting a good sound is quick and easy, as it has your basic compressor parameters, and anyone who has experience with other compressors should be able to figure out how to use this pretty quick. The rich tone makes it a great overall compressor.

OVERALL OPINION

I've been using the Altec Lansing 1951 A for about a year and have always been happy with the sound I get from it. Since it is made by Altec Lansing, it comes with the connotation of classic top quality. This compressor is somewhat rare now, as they are no longer made. However, if you can find one used on eBay they will cost you around what a top quality compressor will cost these days. I'm not sure what other compressors I would compare this to, as it has a pretty unique tone and make up. While this isn't the best compressor I have ever heard, it has a great tone quality and is a great all purpose compressor.