{"title":"Empirical Labs Studio Compressors","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"empirical-labs-distressor-el8-x-stereo-matched-pair-426383","title":"Distressor EL8X Stereo Matched","description":"\u003ch3\u003eA Modern Classic: The Spirit of Legends, Today's Flexibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eConceived by Dave Derr with the desire to recapture the character of iconic compressors (such as the 1176, LA-2A, or Gain Brain), the Distressor established itself as an intelligent synthesis: grain, musicality, and a true ability to adapt to the source. With tens of thousands of units in circulation, it is one of those \"go-to\" machines found both in high-end studios and more compact production setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFor Which Profiles and Studio Uses?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Distressor EL8-X is aimed at sound engineers, producers, and musicians who want an analog compressor capable of ranging from clean, discreet control to a distinctly pronounced signature. In recording, it stabilizes vocals, tightens bass, or adds impact to a snare without losing attack. In mixing, it can thicken guitars, add dimension to synths, or transform room mics using the \"Nuke\" mode. The \"Opto\" 10:1 ratio, designed to recall the behavior of photoelectric compression, provides a smoother, more singing smoothing when aiming for controlled dynamics without aggression.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Empirical Labs","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54357235499283,"sku":"426383","price":3648.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0984\/0872\/6803\/files\/039d28828fcce5dd305e56f20b8d57f986564ff3_EMPIRICAL_EL8X_STEREO.jpg?v=1792528995"},{"product_id":"empirical-labs-el-7-ubk-fatso-184841","title":"EL-7 UBK Fatso","description":"\u003ch3\u003eFrom Fatso Jr. to UBK Fatso: The Legacy Revisited\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eBorn from UBK's admiration for Dave Derr's Fatso Jr., the UBK Fatso inherits the DNA of the classic Vintage Fatso - tape-style saturation, harmonic thickening, and independent \"warmth\" control - and adds three new ear-tuned compression Presets. The result: an outboard unit that continues the analog aesthetic while speeding up decision-making in the studio.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFor Whom and For What Uses?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eDesigned for engineers and producers seeking \u003cstrong\u003emusical compression without hassle\u003c\/strong\u003e, the UBK Fatso excels in both tracking and mixing. It tames vocal peaks, densifies drums, stabilizes bass, thickens guitars, and brings cohesion to loops and keyboards. Used in parallel processing or insert, it delivers punch, color, and level stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFeatures and Sonic Signatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\"Splat\" Preset\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eVintage console spirit: with moderate settings, it locks drums in place, pushes vocals forward, and enhances attack. When driven, it delivers massive impact, creamy old-school vocals, and thick guitars that stay put in the mix, even with heavy gain reduction.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\"Smooth\" Preset\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eFollower-style limiting to shave 6-10 dB of peaks without artifacts. In tracking, takes naturally nestle together\u0026#59; in mixing, it shifts from a smooth, velvety sound to a fast, punchy behavior, ideal for loops, parallel overheads, or vocals with chaotic dynamics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\"Glue\" Preset\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eLow-frequency specialist: controls dynamics while preserving clarity and punch, raises perceived level, and unifies notes. Also formidable on drums, acoustics, and keyboards for a \"glued\" mix cohesion.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\"Spank\" Mode and Stacking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe famous \"Spank\" adds incisive console-style punch, stackable with one or more Presets. Treatments layer for textures that are both powerful and musical\u0026#59; activate the transformer circuit to make the low end sing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eTechnical specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e@media(max-width:632px){table[data-wb-spec]{display:grid;grid-template-columns:minmax(0,1fr) minmax(0,1fr)}table[data-wb-spec] colgroup{display:none}table[data-wb-spec] tbody,table[data-wb-spec] tr{display:contents}table[data-wb-spec] td{display:block;overflow-wrap:anywhere;grid-row:var(--wb-l);background-color:var(--wb-lb)}table[data-wb-spec] td[data-r]{grid-row:var(--wb-r);background-color:var(--wb-rb)}table[data-wb-spec] td[colspan=\"2\"]{grid-column:1\/-1}table[data-wb-spec] td:empty{display:none}}\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003ctable data-wb-spec style=\"width:100%;table-layout:fixed\"\u003e\n\u003ccolgroup\u003e\u003ccol style=\"width:25%\"\u003e\u003ccol style=\"width:25%\"\u003e\u003ccol style=\"width:25%\"\u003e\u003ccol style=\"width:25%\"\u003e\u003c\/colgroup\u003e\n  \u003ctr style=\"background-color:var(--wb-neutral-50);--wb-l:1;--wb-r:2;--wb-lb:var(--wb-neutral-50);--wb-rb:transparent\"\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThree proprietary Presets\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003e\u0026quot;Splat,\u0026quot; \u0026quot;Smooth,\u0026quot; and \u0026quot;Glue\u0026quot; (fixed settings optimized by ear).\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended sources\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003evocals, drums, bass, acoustic\/electric guitars, pianos, loops, and keyboards.\u003c\/td\u003e\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Empirical Labs","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54357621768467,"sku":"184841","price":3222.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0984\/0872\/6803\/files\/0d0324c3d8fa798adbf754386bdbd5412db91bcd_EMPIRICALLABS_UBKEL7.jpg?v=1792542452"},{"product_id":"empirical-labs-distressor-el8-x-mono-78136","title":"Distressor EL8-X Mono","description":"\u003ch3\u003eA Modern Classic in Dynamics\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cbr \/\u003e\u003cp\u003eBorn to combine the character of legendary compressors with the precision of a modern workflow, the Empirical Labs Distressor has established itself as a studio standard. It combines a hybrid architecture of discrete components\/integrated circuits with robust digital control, offering the musicality of iconic machines and the consistency of a contemporary production tool.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cbr \/\u003e\u003cbr \/\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWho Is It For and What Are Its Uses?\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cbr \/\u003e\u003cp\u003eIdeal for tracking and mixing, it excels on vocals, guitars, and drums, from room mics to close mics. Its palette ranges from simple transparent \"warming\" to aggressive control for disciplined transients, up to optical emulation for smooth, singing compressions on buses or bass.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cbr \/\u003e\u003cbr \/\u003e\u003ch3\u003eKey Features and Highlights\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cbr \/\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThree Distortion Modes\u003c\/strong\u003e allow shaping the texture before or after gain reduction: even harmonics for a \"tube-like\" warmth, or odd harmonics for a more biting character, like tape saturation. Two dedicated LEDs indicate 1% and 3% thresholds for precise dosing without harsh clipping even a few dB beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cbr \/\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdvanced Detection EQ\u003c\/strong\u003e: high-mid boost softens guitars and vocals, while the sidechain low-cut prevents pumping from bass frequencies, resulting in more musical compression.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cbr \/\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEight Unique Curves\u003c\/strong\u003e: from 1:1 with no compression (just harmonic coloration) to ratios of 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, 6:1, up to 10:1 in dedicated circuits for an \"optical\" response close to the great classics, plus an \"Explosive\" mode designed for drum room mics.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cbr \/\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eErgonomics and Repeatability\u003c\/strong\u003e: binary-style interface to multiply combinations, large-throw potentiometers with fine graduations, fixed and calibrated output level for instant recall in studio or live settings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eTechnical specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e@media(max-width:632px){table[data-wb-spec]{display:grid;grid-template-columns:minmax(0,1fr) minmax(0,1fr)}table[data-wb-spec] colgroup{display:none}table[data-wb-spec] tbody,table[data-wb-spec] tr{display:contents}table[data-wb-spec] td{display:block;overflow-wrap:anywhere;grid-row:var(--wb-l);background-color:var(--wb-lb)}table[data-wb-spec] td[data-r]{grid-row:var(--wb-r);background-color:var(--wb-rb)}table[data-wb-spec] td[colspan=\"2\"]{grid-column:1\/-1}table[data-wb-spec] td:empty{display:none}}\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003ctable data-wb-spec style=\"width:100%;table-layout:fixed\"\u003e\n\u003ccolgroup\u003e\u003ccol style=\"width:25%\"\u003e\u003ccol style=\"width:25%\"\u003e\u003ccol style=\"width:25%\"\u003e\u003ccol style=\"width:25%\"\u003e\u003c\/colgroup\u003e\n  \u003ctr style=\"background-color:var(--wb-neutral-50);--wb-l:1;--wb-r:3;--wb-lb:var(--wb-neutral-50);--wb-rb:var(--wb-neutral-50)\"\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEight dynamic curves\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003e1:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, 6:1, 10:1 (\u0026quot;optical\u0026quot; circuit), plus \u0026quot;Explosive\u0026quot; limiting mode.\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePackaged weight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003e6 kg.\u003c\/td\u003e\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003ctr style=\"background-color:transparent;--wb-l:2;--wb-r:4;--wb-lb:transparent;--wb-rb:transparent\"\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProgrammable analog distortion\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003eeven harmonics (tube-type) and odd harmonics (tape-type).\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r colspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Empirical Labs","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54357739307283,"sku":"78136","price":1898.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0984\/0872\/6803\/files\/2f0e1820148c3f10172c2aeb4552e9460f0d4234_EMPIRICAL_LABS_DISTRESSOR_MONO.jpg?v=1792542462"},{"product_id":"empirical-labs-el-7x-fatso-184822","title":"EL-7X Fatso","description":"\u003ch3\u003eThe FATSO, the Modernized Heir of an Empirical Labs Classic\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eBorn as an evolution of the FATSO Jr, the FATSO EL7-X incorporates a finer approach to analog compression and saturation. Designed by Dave Derr, it carries the \"studio-proof\" DNA of Empirical Labs while addressing the limitations of the first generation. Since June 2013, shipped units already include the \"Eleven\" ratio factory-installed, a direct legacy of research conducted around vintage compressors.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWho Is It For and What For?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe FATSO EL7-X is aimed at sound engineers, producers, and mixers who want to add density and smoothness to digital sources, both on tracks and buses. Formidable on vocals, bass, acoustic guitars, overheads, and piano, it increases perceived level while maintaining control over peaks. In the studio, mobile rigs, or even for audiophile listening, it restores the much sought-after tape warmth and ambiance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFeatures and Innovations That Make the Difference\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eNew \"Eleven\" Ratio\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eReplacing the \"GP\" ratio, \"Eleven\" emulates the famous behavior of the 1176: very high ratio, slower attack, and ultra-fast release. From subtle control of a few dB to creative crushing, it delivers striking presence and places the source perfectly in the mix.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eRedesigned Logic and Interface\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe switch to a microprocessor reduces power consumption by about 20%, lowers operating temperature, and improves reliability. Ergonomics are enhanced with a dedicated \"Tracking\" LED, a clearly distinct blue \"Spank\" LED, and a rewind function activated by holding down a button.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eSmarter Stereo Linking\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eTwo linking methods provide solid locking of compressors and bypass between channels. Control from either side becomes natural and secure, ideal for mix bus and stems.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eThe FATSO Sound Signature\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarmonic generation \/ soft clipping\u003c\/strong\u003e: Class A circuit reminiscent of tubes or saturated tape.\u003c\/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHF warmth\u003c\/strong\u003e: dynamic low-pass filter that softens highs when they accumulate.\u003c\/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransformer \/ playback head emulation\u003c\/strong\u003e: fuller lows and vintage-typical musical nonlinearities.\u003c\/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClassic \"knee\" compression\u003c\/strong\u003e: smooth and consistent leveling, perfect on tracks and buses.\u003c\/li\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eFour refined compression modes (including \"Buss\" and the legendary \"Spank\") are selectable and combinable. Large Distressor-style knobs control input\/output for fast workflow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eTechnical specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e@media(max-width:632px){table[data-wb-spec]{display:grid;grid-template-columns:minmax(0,1fr) minmax(0,1fr)}table[data-wb-spec] colgroup{display:none}table[data-wb-spec] tbody,table[data-wb-spec] tr{display:contents}table[data-wb-spec] td{display:block;overflow-wrap:anywhere;grid-row:var(--wb-l);background-color:var(--wb-lb)}table[data-wb-spec] td[data-r]{grid-row:var(--wb-r);background-color:var(--wb-rb)}table[data-wb-spec] td[colspan=\"2\"]{grid-column:1\/-1}table[data-wb-spec] td:empty{display:none}}\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003ctable data-wb-spec style=\"width:100%;table-layout:fixed\"\u003e\n\u003ccolgroup\u003e\u003ccol style=\"width:25%\"\u003e\u003ccol style=\"width:25%\"\u003e\u003ccol style=\"width:25%\"\u003e\u003ccol style=\"width:25%\"\u003e\u003c\/colgroup\u003e\n  \u003ctr style=\"background-color:var(--wb-neutral-50);--wb-l:1;--wb-r:5;--wb-lb:var(--wb-neutral-50);--wb-rb:var(--wb-neutral-50)\"\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026quot;Eleven\u0026quot; ratio replacing \u0026quot;GP\u0026quot;\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003ehigh ratio, slower attack, fast release.\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTwo linking methods\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003ecompressor and bypass association.\u003c\/td\u003e\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003ctr style=\"background-color:transparent;--wb-l:2;--wb-r:6;--wb-lb:transparent;--wb-rb:transparent\"\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSelectable and combinable compression modes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003e\u0026quot;Buss,\u0026quot; \u0026quot;Spank,\u0026quot; \u0026quot;Tracking\u0026quot; (dedicated LED), etc.\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFATSO units shipped since June 2013\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003e\u0026quot;Eleven\u0026quot; already present internally (circuit equivalent to EL7-X).\u003c\/td\u003e\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003ctr style=\"background-color:var(--wb-neutral-50);--wb-l:3;--wb-r:7;--wb-lb:var(--wb-neutral-50);--wb-rb:var(--wb-neutral-50)\"\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-frequency saturation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003e7 levels of \u0026quot;warmth\u0026quot; via dynamic low-pass filter.\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended sources\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003evocals, bass, acoustic guitars, drum ambience mics, pianos.\u003c\/td\u003e\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003ctr style=\"background-color:transparent;--wb-l:4;--wb-r:8;--wb-lb:transparent;--wb-rb:transparent\"\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMicroprocessor replacing discrete logic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003eapproximately 20% reduced consumption and lower operating temperature.\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r style=\"text-align:left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUses\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\u003ctd data-r style=\"text-align:left;font-weight:var(--font-body-weight-bolder)\"\u003etracking, mix bus, summing, softening digital sources and DAWs.\u003c\/td\u003e\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Empirical Labs","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54358375596307,"sku":"184822","price":2698.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0984\/0872\/6803\/files\/c7b6c12f1841763593337a606a51d5762da88aeb_EMPIRICALLABS_FATSOEL7X.jpg?v=1792556901"}],"url":"https:\/\/woodbrass.shop\/collections\/compresseurs-studio-empirical-labs.oembed","provider":"Woodbrass.com","version":"1.0","type":"link"}