Custom Line CS-5 Compressor : Pretty good for the price

7 years ago

I bought this effect so I could get that classic 80s sound, and compression is a key component. This pedal does a credible job for a pretty reasonable price.

Positives: it's very solidly constructed; I can't see myself breaking it. The controls allow it to be dialed in pretty much any way you want it. Best of all, it sounds GREAT with a clean tone (think Def Leppard's "Hysteria).

Negatives: the footswitch isn't super smooth (there's a solid "click" when you step on it; not a deal-breaker but something I find somewhat annoying and which more expensive brands avoid). Like many compressors, it's pretty noisy with overdrive; this may be something I can overcome by playing with pedal order or adding a noise gate, but it is pretty aggravating nonetheless).

Bottom line: I would buy it again. Although I'd love to use it for more sustain in overdrive, I'm satisfied with the improvement it brings to my clean tone.

Image Harley Benton Custom Line CS-5 Compressor

Technical Data

  • Manufactured by Harley Benton
  • Released in 2015
  • Average price : $43
  • Dimensions (Wmm x Hmm x D): 120mm x 56mm x 95mm
  • Weight : 0.350kg
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