Afterlife vs 4:1

[chordball]

I'm interested in building one of these two compressors but am undecided on which one. Can any of you offer some insight on the pros and cons of the clean blend option of the 4:1? Thanks!

[madbean]

There's no real con to having a clean blend....it's simply an "additive" option that can be completely removed by turning the knob down. I guess I'd describe the "pro" as being able to create a more unique compression mix than you would have without a clean through. You can get a lot of compression pumping through without it feeling overdone (as is the case with many one knob compressors)...IOW added sustain without overly-compressed dynamics.

[chordball]

There's no real con to having a clean blend....it's simply an "additive" option that can be completely removed by turning the knob down. I guess I'd describe the "pro" as being able to create a more unique compression mix than you would have without a clean through. You can get a lot of compression pumping through without it feeling overdone (as is the case with many one knob compressors)...IOW added sustain without overly-compressed dynamics.

Thanks for the help Brian. I wasn't sure if/how the added circuitry would change the feel if the clean was dialed completely out. I'm leaning towards the 4:1.

[BryGuy]

I really dig my 4:1. Built it up over the fall and it's been on my bass pedal board ever since.

[gordo]

Best compressor I own (4:1).  Clean blend is the game changer.

[Boba7]

Yes, the 4:1 is AMAZING.

I've built a lot of compressors, inclusing the Afterlife and the Diamond comp, and the 4:1 is my favorite, by far.

[chordball]

Cool. Thanks a lot guys!