Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (14)
$209.99 $178.49 $31.50 · All time low
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$209.99
Amazon
4.6 (9)
$209.99
Reverb
5.0 (28)
$197.93 New
$130.00 Used
Gear4Music
£200.00

Average Price: $192

Standard/Professional

$50

$201+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "MXR M76 Studio Compressor". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Crafted for musicians who crave precision, the MXR M76 Studio Compressor stands as a beacon of control and versatility in the world of guitar pedals. This pedal is not just an incremental upgrade—it's a comprehensive tool that integrates and enhances features from MXR's celebrated Dyna Comp line. Whether you're dialing in subtleties for a live performance or shaping pristine sounds in the studio, the M76 delivers with studio-grade FET technology that ensures you capture every nuance of your playing.

The M76 combines the classic output and sustain controls from the original Dyna Comp with an expanded feature set that includes an attack knob from the Super Comp, a dedicated release control, and a ratio switch. The inclusion of a gain reduction meter provides real-time visual feedback, allowing you to fine-tune your sound with precision. This pedal's intuitive interface ensures that whether you're a seasoned pro or an enthusiastic newcomer, you can achieve the desired compression effect effortlessly.

Embrace the power of dynamic control and transform your guitar's sound with the MXR M76 Studio Compressor—where each note you play receives the attention it deserves, all while maintaining the integrity and warmth of your original tone.

Key Features:

  • Studio-grade FET-based compression for high-quality sound
  • Output and sustain controls derived from the original Dyna Comp
  • Attack knob for precise dynamic shaping
  • Dedicated release control and ratio switch for expanded tonal options
  • Gain reduction meter for visual feedback
  • True bypass for uncolored sound
  • Rugged construction designed for stage and studio use

Product specs

Brand MXR
Model M76 Studio Compressor
Finish Black
Year 2016 - 2025
Made In United States
Categories Compressor Pedals
Pedal Format Standard

FAQs

What type of compression does the MXR M76 Studio Compressor offer?

The MXR M76 Studio Compressor offers classic studio-grade compression in a compact pedal format, providing smooth and transparent dynamic control suitable for various musical styles.

How does the MXR M76 Studio Compressor maintain headroom?

The MXR M76 Studio Compressor utilizes CHT Constant Headroom Technology, ensuring clear and clean performance without distortion even at high compression levels.

What visual indicators does the MXR M76 Studio Compressor provide?

The MXR M76 Studio Compressor features ten gain-reduction status LEDs, offering a clear visual representation of the compression effect in real-time.

Is the MXR M76 Studio Compressor true bypass?

Yes, the MXR M76 Studio Compressor is equipped with true bypass, ensuring that your guitar signal remains unaffected when the pedal is not engaged.

Can the MXR M76 Studio Compressor be used with bass guitar?

Yes, the MXR M76 Studio Compressor is versatile and can be effectively used with bass guitar, providing smooth compression and maintaining low-end clarity.

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

New MXR Pedals, Reverb, Studio Comp, DVP4, Green Rhino, Swollen Pickle, Bass Wah Mini & Petrucci Wah

Video thumbnail for New MXR Pedals, Reverb, Studio Comp, DVP4, Green Rhino, Swollen Pickle, Bass Wah Mini & Petrucci Wah by Andertons Music Co

New MXR Pedals, Reverb, Studio Comp, DVP4, Green Rhino, Swollen Pickle, Bass Wah Mini & Petrucci Wah

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for MXR Studio Compressor Bass Demo - Tube Amp - Humbucker - Shure SM57 by Noise Trust

MXR Studio Compressor Bass Demo - Tube Amp - Humbucker - Shure SM57

Noise Trust

Noise Trust

Video thumbnail for Pedal MXR Studio Compressor by KLEBER K SHIMA (KASHIMA)

Pedal MXR Studio Compressor

KLEBER K SHIMA (KASHIMA)

KLEBER K SHIMA (KASHIMA)

Video thumbnail for MXR M76 & Ampeg SCR DI // Bass Slap Settings by Charles Bautista Music

MXR M76 & Ampeg SCR DI // Bass Slap Settings

Charles Bautista Music

Charles Bautista Music

Video thumbnail for Carl Martin Andy Timmons Signature Compressor and MXR Studio Compressor Review by Gear 'n Gigs

Carl Martin Andy Timmons Signature Compressor and MXR Studio Compressor Review

Gear 'n Gigs

Gear 'n Gigs

Reviews

PROS

  • Clear, clean sound with very low noise

  • Transparent compression that doesn't alter guitar tone excessively

  • Excellent input level adjustment with LED meter

  • Quietest compressor among many tested

  • Works well as a limiter after other effects

  • Effective for both guitar and bass

  • Full frequency response with adjustable parameters

  • Useful for achieving 'direct to console' sounds

CONS

  • Can experience hard clipping when headroom is maxed

  • Metering can be inconsistent at times

  • Doesn't provide enough 'squish' for some users

  • Pricey compared to other compressors with similar features

  • Indicator lights may fail, as noted by some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MXR M76 Studio Compressor.

Features and functionality

  • The MXR M76 Studio Compressor is noted for its clean, hifi sound, maintaining highs and lows without tonal change even at high compression settings.

    Source
  • The MXR M76 is essentially the MXR Bass Compressor with a different visual design, broadening its appeal for guitar users.

    Source
  • The Studio Compressor comes in a black housing, which some users prefer over the design of the Bass Compressor.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It functions well as an always-on clean boost, particularly effective with a 4:1 or 8:1 ratio, attack and release at noon, input gain at 2 o'clock.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Unlike Ross style compressors, the MXR does not cut highs and lows, making it suitable for both guitar and bass applications.

    Source
  • The existence of both models is mainly due to guitarist preferences, as they are technically identical but labeled differently.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners mention the pedal is almost dead quiet, even when set to high compression levels, enhancing its utility in various recording scenarios.

    Source
  • Some owners mention using the Bass Compressor successfully with guitar, indicating its versatility beyond just bass applications.

    Source

Critic Reviews

MXR M76 Studio Compressor review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The MXR M76 Studio Compressor is a classy performer that offers a studio-quality compression experience in a pedal format. With its transparent sound and versatile controls, including compression ratios, attack, and release knobs, it allows for precise envelope shaping without dulling the top end. The LED gain reduction meter is a practical addition. While it may not impart a distinctive sonic character like the Dynacomp, it excels in maintaining dynamics and adding subtle thickness. Overall, it's a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, unobtrusive compressor.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
thejpdiazofficial

MXR Studio Compressor

"This compressor is really awesome. I have total control on it. Very useful from studio to live gigs and you can choose different ratios of compressor. It is really clean and it produces that "stealthy" sound on my tone."

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Sam Fender uses MXR M76 Studio Compressor

Sam Fender

Singer, Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

Sam Fender uploaded an instagram story during the recordings of his upcoming album where we can see clearly his pedal board.

See how Nancy Wilson uses MXR M76 Studio Compressor

Nancy Wilson

Guitarist

Heart

...
Verified via YouTube

At 16:53 in the "Heart's Nancy Wilson Rig Rundown with Ryan Wariner & Ryan Waters" video by Premier Guitar, the MXR M76 Studio Compressor Pedal is clearly visible at the bottom right of Nancy Wilson's pedalboard.

See how Sergey Golovin uses MXR M76 Studio Compressor

Sergey Golovin

Guitarist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Sergey Golovin's pedalboard is shown to consist of the following pedals: -Dunlop JP signature wah -Dunlop Mini Volume Pedal -MXR SmartGate -EHX PitchFork -MXR Studio Compressor -TC Electronics SCF pedal -MXR EchoPlex delay pedal -Boss DS-1 -MXR Carbon Copy Delay -MXR Phase 90 -Boss DD-2 Delay -MXR Reverb -MXR ISO-Brick

S

Steve Micciche

Bassist

Better Lovers

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

Steve Micciche is confirmed to use the MXR M76 Studio Compressor, as detailed in a rig rundown with Premier Guitar's Perry Bean, where it is listed among the six effects on his board.

See how Devin Malone uses MXR M76 Studio Compressor

Devin Malone

Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram post featuring Devin Malone's rig, it can be confirmed that he uses the MXR M76 Studio Compressor.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use MXR M76 Studio Compressor, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
oznikovsky

oznikovsky

Gear IQ 310

oznikovsky

oznikovsky

Gear IQ 310

knuschberkeks

knuschberkeks

Gear IQ 2461

knuschberkeks

knuschberkeks

Gear IQ 2461

oznikovsky

oznikovsky

Gear IQ 310

1 alternative for MXR M76 Studio Compressor, curated by the Equipboard community.

MXR M87 Bass Compressor

$198.00 - $219.00

similar sound

They are the exact same circuit. MXR made the Bass Compressor first, then realized it was great for guitar aswell. But most guitarists were hesitant to put a bass pedal on their board, so MXR created the Studio Compressor.

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Gear Guides

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