| Content | Arguably the coolest and most unique device in the Empirical Labs arsenal, the FATSO (Full Analog Tape Simulator and Optimizer) is a digitally controlled analog device that gives musicians and engineers easy access to many of the desirable characteristics exhibited by older tube and Class A electronics and magnetic tape mediums. This two channel audio processor musically integrates frequencies and transients, increasing the apparent volume while keeping tight control over peak levels.
With the FATSO, recording studios and audio production facilities can enhance and soften the sound of Hardware Digital Recorders (HDRs) and Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs). Mix engineers will have the option not to have to use bulky, expensive analog tape recorders to get the warmth and sweet high end they’ve come to rely on for so many decades. Owners of DAWs and HDRs can finally put a stop to complaints about the coldness and brittle edge of their mixes and instruments. Even audiophiles can benefit from the FATSO, bringing back the warmth and ambience of LP’s and tapes to their CD players and other digital reproduction mediums.
The FATSO Goes to Eleven
ELEVEN is a new compressor for the FATSO, replacing the old GP Ratio, and emulates the famous UREI 1176LN in 20:1, with the slowest attack, and fastest release. This 1176 setting has been used on countless hit records through the decades. With the slower “1176” attack, the transients keep the dynamics present, while the high ratio, can radically limit the dynamic range of any source, making it present and sitting in a nice little place in your mix. One can slam it, or just touch it with a few dB of compression. You will find it great on Vocals, Bass, acoustic guitars, drum room mikes, pianos etc. Click here to find out how to upgrade your EL7 to an EL7X.
Four Types of Processing
- Harmonic Generation and Soft Clipper (Distortion Generation) – this class A circuit gently rounds the peaks like saturated tubes or tape.
- High Frequency Saturation (Warmth) – a one-of-a-kind dynamic low pass filter which softens high frequencies when they “pile up” on a source.
- Transformer & Tape Head Emulation – a simulation of the effect of input and output transformers of older devices, which adds the low frequency harmonics that characterize them, as well as analog tape..
- Classic Knee Compression – your typical automatic leveling device found on just about every instrument and vocal track as well as on the overall buss, done Empirical Labs compression – smooth and sweet, but in your face!
Universal Audio's FATSO Emulation
Endorsed and scrutinized for accuracy by designer Dave Derr of Empirical Labs, Universal Audio has painstakingly recreated the FATSO Jr. in this highly anticipated UAD Powered Plugin, capturing the sonic nuances of the original hardware. As part of the FATSO Powered Plugin, UA has also worked closely with Dave Derr to model the original concept of the FATSO, the FATSO Sr., with attack, release, and threshold compressor controls, among other features not available elsewhere.
Frequency Response: 2 Hz to 60 kHz in clean audio mode (+0, -3 dB).
Dynamic Range: 110 dB from maximum output (20 %THD soft clipping) to minimum output. Greater than 100 dB signal to noise.
Distortion: Ranges between .06% and 20% depending on mode and settings.
I/O: DC Coupled input and outputs.
Compressor Time Constants: Attack range 1ms – 60ms. Release range .05sec – 3.5 seconds. Attack and Releases are fixed by the compression type selected.
Power Consumption: 15 Watts Max.
Metal Chassis: single height 1.75″ high, 10″ deep, 19″ wide. | The product that started it all for Empirical Labs. Born of founder Dave Derr’s love of classic compressors like the 1176, LA-2A and Gain Brain (among others), the Distressor incorporates his favorite sonic characteristics of these, along with other unique and interesting features that have made it a staple for audio engineers all over the world. With over 28,000 units in the field, it’s safe to say that the Distressor is one of the best selling high end compressors of all time… if not THE best selling. A prominent recording engineer recently wagered that there probably was not a top 40 record made in the last five years that didn’t have at least one Distressor on it.
Besides providing a wide range of control and a unique feature set, the Distressor offers a warm, vintage sound by using a custom designed gain control circuit. This “warmth” or “vintage sound” has become a major issue in the last few decades, as the super clear and linear digital technology does next to nothing to soften “harsh” sounds, nor emphasize the bass frequencies in music sources. Conversely, older analog tape, vinyl records and tube equipment could not be prevented from coloring the sound, often to the frustration of recording engineers. However, many people now realize that this coloring can be extremely pleasant and musical. Digital technology is often referred to as “cold” and “brittle” among other terms (although we prefer “unforgiving”).
Unique Compression Curves
All eight of the Distressor’s curves are unique and distinctive, from the 1:1 mode that simply warms up signal with low order harmonics without intentional compression, to the “Nuke” setting – a brick wall limiting curve that shines on live drum room mics. Each curve has its own personality and several actually use different circuitry, and are effectively different compressors. Most exceptional is the 10:1 “Opto” ratio which uses separate detector circuitry to emulate the oldest (and valued) “light controlled” devices, such as the LA-2A.
Distortion (Color) Modes
Another large part of the Distressor’s personality and power derive from three modes that color the signal, even without compression. These extended audio modes were designed to allow emulation of some very old and expensive vintage compressors & limiters, and let the Distressor deliver a classic “knee” sound all its own by providing user programmable, warm harmonic distortion. In addition to the basic distortion mode, Distort 2 emphasizes tube-like 2nd order harmonics, while in Distort 3 setting the distortion becomes dominated by 3rd harmonics more closely resembling tape. Two HP filters – one in the audio path, one in the detector path – are also available to help with low frequencies that can cause pumping and breathing.
British Mode
The concept of British Mode came from an unusual setting on the classic UREI LN1176 limiter. The unit was designed to have only four ratios, each ratio being engaged by selecting one of four buttons. However, as early as 1980 (or before), renegade recording engineers, always on the lookout for something a little more “over-the-top”, found that you could make all four buttons stay in if you pressed them just right. What resulted was a very aggressive sound that had some elements of the unit’s 20:1 ratio, but with an unusual knee and new envelope shape. Somewhere along the line, someone called it “British Mode”, and the name stuck.
The EL8-X has the advantage of being able to selectively apply this aggressive characteristic – not just to the new “British” ratio (1:1) – to any of the ratios, simply by engaging the dedicated “British Mode” switch.
The British Mode and Image Link options are only available on the EL8-X.
Image Link
The original Distressor stereo link function used a summing and phase detection method, which allowed slight stereo image shifting. Although frequently desirable for its phase correction, and its “thickening” on open room mics and other stereo sources, this approach can sometimes be a problem on stereo program material where the producer/engineers want to maintain absolute left/right balance at all times. With the new “Stereo Image Link” option, the EL8-X now has three link options – the original “phase” link, the new Image Link and the combination of the two, phase and image linking – something never before offered on any compressors or limiters.
- Frequency Response – 2 Hz to 160 kHz in clean audio mode (+0, -3 dB). Response is shaped in distortion modes (Dist 2, Dist 3).
- Dynamic Range – 110 dB from max. output to min. output in 1:1 mode. Greater than 100 dB signal to noise in distort 3 mode.
- Distortion – ranges between .02% and 20% depending on distortion mode and release times set on front panel.
- I/O – DC Coupled input and outputs.
- Time Constants – Attack range 50uS – 50mS. Release range .05 sec to 3.5 seconds, normal modes and up to 20 seconds in 10:1 opto mode. Time constants are dependent on ratio.
- Power Consumption – 15 Watts Max.
- Metal Chassis – single height 1.75″ high, 10″ deep, 19″ wide.
- Shipping info – 12.1 lbs mono. Mono box dimensions 22.5″ x 18.5″ x 3 1/4″.
| Proven reverberation classic for the future
With the VSR 3.2, we happily rely on the proven old mechanical way to create reverberation. Rightly, because the used reverberation spring by AccuBell (formerly Accutronics) creates that magic 60's reverb which is slightly metallic and dense at the same time.
Just like it predecessors, VSR 3.2 has a straight-forward and honest approach: signal in - spring reverb - vintage sound out.
VSR 3.2 is equipped with an equalizer that is exactly adapted to the springs' frequency response. In addition, there are controls to mix the dry and effect signal as well as controls for the input and output level. This way, VSR 3.2 simply exactly does what it was designed to do.
Designed for every situation
Although using a large spring (type 9), VSR 3.2 fits in a 19" housing with one rack unit – minimal space requirements. Thanks to its extremely solid chassis, VSR 3.2 is a reliable vintage-effect that cannot only be used in a controlled studio environment. On the contrary, it also serves fine when being used in straining live situations.
VSR 3.2 grants your sound an elegant touch of "good old times". Its simplicity makes it an unbelievable versatile companion.
Inputs
- 1/4"-jack input front
- unbalanced
- max. input sensitivity: –40 dBu
- impedance: 1 MΩ
- 1/4"-jack input rear (1)
- unbalanced
- max. input sensitivity: 0 dBu
- impedance: 100 kΩ
- 1/4"-jack input rear (2)
- unbalanced
- max. input sensitivity: –20 dBu
- impedance: 10 kΩ
Outputs
- 1/4"-jack output (1)
- unbalanced
- max. output level: 0 dBu
- 1/4"-jack output (2)
- unbalanced
- max. output level: - 20 dBu
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
- direct: > 80 dBu
- effect: > 70 dBu
THD + Noise
Miscellaneous
- power supply: external DC-adapter with 12 V/1000 mA
- dimensions: 19“, 1 HE, ca. 190 mm deep
- weight: 2.5 kg
| Originally developed for the dynamics circuit of the acclaimed Shelford Channel, the 535 Diode Bridge Compressor captures the soul of Rupert Neve’s original 2254 compressor while providing modern updates including advanced timing control, significantly lower noise, fully stepped controls throughout, and internal parallel processing capabilities.
What is diode bridge compression?
Where the VCA compressor found in the Master Buss Processor provides unmatched clarity, the weighty, harmonically rich tonality of diode bridge compression can be essential in pushing key sources like vocals, electric guitars, bass and drums to the forefront of a mix.
By understanding the limitations of vintage units like the legendary 2254, painstaking effort was taken to reproduce the unique tone of these classics while improving the noise floor & accuracy, expanding inflexible time constants, adding full wave sidechain detection for improved dynamic response, and widening the range of threshold and ratio controls.
Delivering the powerful sound of these iconic designs with enhanced flexibility for the modern age, the 535 Diode Bridge Compressor is a dynamic tool equipped to make a bold statement on virtually any mix or track.
LINE INPUT TO LINE OUTPUT
- Compressor Bypassed.
- Z source = 40 Ohm Balanced
INPUT IMPEDANCE
10K Ohm
OUTPUT IMPEDANCE
40 Ohm
MAXIMUM INPUT LEVEL
+23.5 dBu
MAXIMUM OUTPUT LEVEL
+23.5 dBu
NOISE
- 22 Hz - 22 kHz BW.
- -101 dBu
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
- 10 Hz - 120 kHz, 30ft Output XLR Cable.
- +/- 0.25 dB
THD+N
- @ 1 kHz @ Maximum Output Level, 22 Hz - 22 kHz BW.
- 0.001%
| Rackmount PG-X Power Conditioner with PG-90 Filtering Technology, Panasonic and Wima capacitors, eight rear switched, filtered and surge protected outlets, one front-panel switched convenience outlet and USB port for device charging.
Your gear deserves the best power, and we took great care in making sure the PG-X delivers just that — thanks to PG-90 Filtering Technology. In testing, this has provided an average of 90% of noise filtering, as opposed to the typical average of 76% found in other power conditioners at the same price point.
Confidence Inspiring Power
There’s nothing worse than scoring that “must-have” piece of gear, only to find that it’s noiser than should be expected, missing high frequency detail, or even worse — having it fried by power surges!
Black Lion Audio has been trusted for years for modifying the best gear and making it even better, and that’s what it took to create the PG-X: taking industry-standard designs, and improving them to the point of peak performance.
After creating the original PG-1, Black Lion Audio knew that plenty of professionals on a smaller budget felt left out, as some features might not be as important as an economy price-point. The PG-X was built with this in mind, while still providing best-of-class power conditioning!
High-end Filtering
Your gear deserves the best power, and we took great care in making sure the PG-X delivers just that — thanks to PG-90 Filtering Technology. In testing, this has provided an average of 90% of noise filtering, as opposed to the typical average of 76% found in other power conditioners at the same price point.
Professional Power
The PG-X features a bank of eight switched, filtered and surge protected outlets on the back panel. On the front panel, the PG-X sports one unswitched convenience outlet and a USB port for device charging.
It takes more than a few rack-mounted outlets to inspire true confidence in your power conditioner, and that’s where the PG-X delivers: best-of-class power filtering!
- Protects your gear from power-spike damage
- Provides clean, well-regulated power for optimum performance
- Features PG-90 Filtering Technology
- Top-drawer components and design for superior power and noise filtering
- Built with premium Panasonic and Wima capacitors
- Rugged 1U rackmount chassis
- 8 switched, filtered, and surge-protected outlets on rear panel
- 1 filtered convenience outlet on front panel
- USB port on front panel
Type: Rackmount
Number of Outlets: 1 x Front, 8 x Rear
Output Current: 15A
USB: 1 x Type A
Features: High frequency noise filter
Rackmountable: Yes
Power Source: Fixed AC cable
Height: 1.7″
Width: 19″
Depth: 9.8″
Weight: 3 lbs. | The vintage EQ tones you know & love.
The 551 is the only equalizer for the 500 Series actually designed by Rupert Neve. Featuring 3 bands of EQ inspired by Mr. Neve’s most prized vintage designs, along with custom-wound inductors, transformers and class-A gain blocks, the 551 brings the thick, powerful lows and sweet highs of Rupert’s classics to the 500-Series format.
The “Best-Of” EQ
The 551’s 3-band, custom-tapped inductor EQ was inspired by our favorite elements of Rupert’s vintage EQ designs. The low frequency band is designed to produce a creamy, resonant bass response similar to a vintage 1064 – but unlike the vintage modules, the LF band on the 551 can be used as either a shelf or a peak filter, adding punch, dimension, and control to your low end.
The midrange band is based on that of the 1073, ideal for sweetening vocals and instruments while bringing them forward in a mix, and its proportional “Q” response makes it well-suited for minimizing problematic frequencies. The high frequency band is a hybrid vintage / modern design, blending inductor circuitry with capacitor-based topologies to achieve vintage tones with enhanced control. The High Pass filter is a 12dB/octave design with a fixed 80Hz frequency, and can be used in tandem with the low frequency EQ to add low-end presence without clouding the source material.
As with Rupert’s most prized classic designs, each EQ section uses low-feedback, class-A discrete electronics to prevent low-level artifacts and harshness from detracting from the tonal shaping. However, this new circuit is a decidedly modern design with updated techniques and components that were simply not available 50 years ago, and is definitely not a “clone”.
What Are Inductors?
Inductors are wires wound around a coil that provide a form of frequency-dependant resistance. When they saturate, they bring out beautifully musical harmonics that give your tracks the smooth, polished sound that has made Rupert’s consoles and equipment so desirable for over fifty years. This is what makes them different from capacitor-based EQ designs, which do a great job at surgical equalization. But inductors provide the tone.
While it is certainly possible to create a functioning EQ using off-the-shelf inductors, we choose to use our own custom inductors for the 551. This attention to detail in controlling variables such as the winding and core materials in relation to the surrounding circuitry allows the 551 to capture the vitality and personality of Rupert’s classic designs.
NOISE
- Measured at Main Output, un-weighted, 22Hz-22kHz, source impedance 40 Ohm balanced.
- Better than -102 dBV
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
Main output, no load: +/- 0.1 dBu from 20 Hz to 31.5 kHz, -1 dB @ 120 kHz
MAXIMUM OUTPUT LEVEL
23.25 dBu
TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION AND NOISE
- @ 1 kHz, +20 dBu output level, no load: Better than 0.0025%
- @ 20 Hz, +20 dBu output level, no load: 0.13% Typical (2nd and 3rd harmonic)
HIGH PASS FILTER
- -2.7 dB @ 80 Hz
- Slope: 12 dB/Octave
NOISE
- Measured at Main Output, un-weighted, 22 Hz - 22 kHz, source impedance 40 Ohm balanced.
- Better than -94 dBV
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
Main output, no load: +/- 0.25 dBu from 20 Hz to 45 kHz, -2 dB @ 120 kHz
MAXIMUM OUTPUT LEVEL
23 dBu
TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION AND NOISE
- @ 1 kHz, +20 dBu output level, no load: Better than 0.009%
- @ 20 Hz, +20 dBu output level, no load: 0.13% Typical (2nd and 3rd harmonic)
POWER REQUIREMENTS
- 120mA on +16VDC
- 110ma on -16VD
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