Empirical Labs EL8 Distressor Compressor/Limiter

Empirical Labs EL8 Distressor Features:

• Classic "knee" compression with modern specs and performance
• Programmable analog distortion warms up unforgiving digital recordings
• Three audio modes: user-programmable, vintage-style harmonic distortion
• Clean and Distort 2 modes: tube-like, 2nd-order harmonics
• Distort 3 modes: distortion dominated by 3rd-order harmonics (similar to tape)
• Distortion indicator lights: 1% LED, "Redline" (3%) LED; hard clipping starts a few dB past "Redline"
• Advanced sidechain EQ: high-mid band emphasis tames harsh, edgy signals; highpass keeps the low sum/difference frequencies from pumping source material's upper frequencies
• Eight unique curves, starting with 1:1 with low-order harmonics but no compression
• "Nuke" setting is a brick-wall limiting curve — great for drum room mics
• 10:1 Opto setting employs separate detector circuitry to emulate classic "light-controlled" compressors
• Discrete and integrated circuitry for the best combination of speed/linearity with repeatability
• Hand-selected and tested long-life components, including all-metal film and Roederstein resistors in audio path
• Large knobs with high-resolution numbering for easy readability and repeatable settings
• Locked and calibrated output level for confident, speedy setups
• Switchable 115/230 volt operation with extra fuse stored inside unit
• Over-designed power supply runs cool, allows for sealed cabinet without heat vents
• True bypass for confident A/B comparisons
• XLR and 1/4" I/O; stereo linkable
• Hand-wired and calibrated in USA