Not getting enough sutain on power chords

The first thing I would look at would be the gain staging. What are you recording? Direct guitar and using a vst guitar amp thingy? What audio interface are you using? Are you using a mixer? Please describe the audio signal chain from your guitar to the computer.

What is your guitar plugged into? Are you adjusting the input level so it is as high as it can get before clipping?

Distorted guitar sustain shouldn't really be fixed with compression, except perhaps for lead notes which are supposed to maintain an even tone throughout. The distortion already counts as compression, so if that's not enough, usually there is something else wrong. Issues of poor sustain are usually in the guitar. How long does a chord sustain audibly when you play it acoustically? I can hear a power chord ring out for about 6 or 7 seconds even when it's not plugged in, so if you're not getting that, I suggest (a) putting some fresh strings on, (b) making sure the strings aren't buzzing against the fretboard, and (c) lower the pickups so they're further from the strings, as the magnets in the pickups pull on the strings and reduce their vibration. Also, could you post your exact signal chain, including plugins? You might have some odd configuration there.

I can't believe I'm hearing all this. 

Stand nearer your amp and hit the strings right! Hit the power chord and while you hold it, move TOWARD the amp. And sustain the strings right "on" your guitar. Feel 'em- hurt 'em. Let them hurt you! Turn the volume "Up". That's how you make a power chord sustain!

Do NONE of you people know how to hurt a guitar?!!!! 

  The result you're getting also sounds a lot like dead strings. If that's the case then the instrument simply stopped producing sound and there's nothing left to squeeze tone out of. Fresh strings as often as possible! Or try this if you can: Cut out frequencies below about 100hz, than squash like hell with WAVES L-1 (if you have it, or can get it) before going into the amp simulator. Not a great solution but it "can" help get a couple of more beats of sustain.

BluesMeister


Chappel, I think you'll find Evan Smalley was being humorous when he posted that.
 

It's certainly hard to tell, if so, over the internet! but yes- it was my intention... sigh. 


Still... if ANYTHING ever required actual "playing an instrument" (not computing or editing), it should be a screaming electric guitar, doesn't anybody think?!!!