The Retro 176 provides a sonic stamp that is huge and undeniably musical. Aside from the three interesting “Asymmetry” positions [which change the way to the compressor reacts to the signal] there is a very clever wide ranging Variable Side Chain Filter that helps to keep important and specific frequencies from triggering the compressor. Being that this control is bypass-able and variable, you have mucho flexibility for shaping the reaction of the compressor. What the amplifier adds to the signal is by no means subtle. It is overwhelmingly attractive in tone, size and girth to my aesthetic. In application, it does really well with a couple of DB, just "tapping" the GR meter for vocals, fast string attack, upright bass, and drum elements should all benefit from the added density and tone. I've been using one for vocals, and upright bass, which I find to be the most favorable application for the 176. Though, since the amplifier adds some awesome Velveeta to the sound, the 176 is really a great compressor all over the place.