Emprical Labs Distressor EL8

Designed to capture the sonic qualities of legendary compressors such as the 1176, LA-2A and Gain Brain, the Distressor EL8 offers eight distinctive compression ratios, ranging from 1:1 to the aggressive Nuke brickwall limiting mode. Its unique gain control circuitry delivers everything from transparent dynamic control to powerful, character-rich compression, making it equally effective on vocals, drums, bass and other instruments. Beyond compression, the Distressor offers selectable harmonic distortion modes that introduce vintage-style analogue colour even without gain reduction. Dist 2 emphasises second-order harmonics for tube-like warmth, while Dist 3 adds third-order harmonics for a more tape-like character. Additional high-pass filtering in the audio and detector paths provides further control over low-frequency content and compression behaviour. With its exceptionally flexible attack and release settings, distinctive compression curves and extensive tonal possibilities, the Distressor EL8 has become a studio standard for tracking, mixing and creative sound shaping. Main Features * Digitally controlled analogue compressor * Eight compression ratios, from 1:1 to Nuke brickwall limiting * Classic compression characteristics inspired by the 1176, LA-2A and Gain Brain * Dist 2 and Dist 3 modes for selectable harmonic saturation * High-pass filtering in the audio and detector paths * Adjustable attack and release times * Attack range: 50 µs – 50 ms * Release range: 0.05 – 3.5 seconds, up to 20 seconds in 10:1 Opto mode * Frequency response: 2 Hz – 160 kHz (+0/−3 dB) in clean mode * Dynamic range: 110 dB in 1:1 mode * 20 kΩ input impedance * DC-coupled output with impedance below 75 Ω * Rugged metal chassis, 1U rackmount design Serial no.: #16369 PSU works on 230V, EU power cord included. We ship worldwide, feel free to ask for a precise shipping quote. The listed ex VAT / VAT0% price applies if you have a company with a valid EU VAT number or if you're based outside of EU. Non-EU buyer pays the import duty and tax as regulated by their local customs. Private buyers in EU are a subject to VAT. We would have to add and charge 24% VAT tax part from private buyers in EU.