Aguilar has announced the TLC DLX Compressor EQ, an expanded evolution of its trusted TLC Compressor pedal. Designed to give bassists complete control over dynamics while adding musical tone shaping inspired by classic studio workflows, the TLC DLX follows a simple philosophy: control dynamics first, then enhance tone. The result is transparent compression paired with broad, musical EQ in a compact, pedalboard-friendly format suited for both stage and studio use.
At the core of the TLC DLX is a comprehensive compressor control set featuring Threshold, Attack, Release, Ratio, Output, and Blend. These controls allow bassists to shape not just how much compression is applied, but how it feels—from subtle dynamic smoothing to firm peak control. An integrated LED gain-reduction meter provides clear visual feedback for dialing in consistent results, while the Blend control enables parallel compression, preserving natural feel and articulation while adding punch and consistency. The Output control compensates for gain reduction, making unity gain easy to achieve.
Beyond dynamics, the TLC DLX adds integrated tone shaping inspired by Aguilar’s DB 925 boost circuit. Broad, boost-only Bass and Treble controls enhance the instrument’s natural character, adding fullness, clarity, and presence without harshness. Used alongside compression, the EQ helps bass tones sit comfortably in a mix while remaining expressive and musical.
Designed as a compact channel strip for the pedalboard, the TLC DLX delivers studio-inspired dynamic control and tone enhancement in a format built for real-world bass performance. “The original TLC Compressor has been part of so many players’ rigs for years, and the TLC DLX is a natural evolution of that idea,” says Aguilar. “We kept the feel and musicality people love, but expanded on it by adding tone shaping inspired by our classic designs. The result is a pedal that still feels familiar, but gives bassists more flexibility and expression than ever before.”
For more information, visit NAMM Booth 6802 or online at www.aguilaramp.com
The TLC DLX Compressor EQ is available now with a street price of $329.99.
