Originally Posted by: Dr_simonIf this NS-2 is working properly you shouldn't get anything when it kicks in. Maybe a little amp noise but their is nothing you can do about that. If the clipping is happening up front then turn the threshold down so that the expanders take out just the noise not the signal.

One thing to look for is wether their is one pedal (like an EQ, the GE7 is notorious) that is causing all the noise. if there is you may want to think about replacing it either with another brand or getting rid completely.

Well, I'm not getting any noise if the gate is up front as you (and Boss) suggest- but that seems to be part of the problem in that it's suppressing a bit TOO much, hence the clipping. I understand this is kinda part and parcel of a noise gate, at least from what I've read, and from what a coupla friends have told me, meaning I can expect some sound clipping. That's why I thought a compressor/sustain pedal might help.

Part of the problem could simply be that I'm playing alone. Could also be the Crate amp I'm playing through; maybe I'll drag out my 30+ yr. old Fender Champ that has only volume and tone controls. If I had a whole band playing around me, I probably wouldn't be so sensitive to any hiss or other noise. Well, I'm not unhappy that I got the gate in any case; it certainly seems to be doing it's job. Thanks much for your input, and to those that suggested the NS-2. I probably need a bit more time to find that sweet spot.