Empirical Labs EL8X-S Distressor (Pair)

Stereo Pair
This stereo pair of EL8XM compressors are ideal for a range of applications from stereo compression to adding distortion to input signals. The two compressors are factory matched for optimised performance.

Analog Compression Meets Modern Innovation
The Distressor EL8XM From Empircal Labs is a high-end analog knee compressor featuring a range of modern innovations including built-in distortion modes. The EL8XM bases its design on classic compressors from the golden era, incorporating the sonic characteristics of vintage units. At the heart of the unit is c custom designed gain control circuit, providing classic vintage stage and warmth. The vintage sound has become a staple in the modern audio world, with producers and musicians seeking a harsher sound, in comparison to the super clear digital sound of the modern day. It features eight distinctive curves in total, ranging from 1:1 (acting as a simple signal warmer) to the Nuke setting which acts a brick wall limiter. The versatile curves are suitable for a range of purposes, for example the Nuke setting shines through when used on live drum room mics.

Three Harmonic Distortion Modes
As well as providing class-style 'knee' compression, the unit also provide programmable harmonic distortion. It boasts three different operational modes for maximum versatility. The basic distortion mode adds a hint of warmth to your signal, delivering a more brash sound. The ‘Distort 2’ mode provides a tube-like 2nd order harmonic distortion, providing added warmth and grit to your signal. ‘Distort 3’ mode is dominated by 3rd harmonics, the result is a tape style distortion that pushes your signal to the limit. The unit also boasts two HP filters, with one located in the audio path and the other in the detector path. The HP filters also help to bring new life to your low-end frequencies, resulting in a more life-like and expressive sound.

Classic-Style Controls
Basing its design on vintage compressors, the EL8XM provides you with four retro-style attenuators designed for controlling Input, Attack, Release and Output settings. The front-panel features a range of other buttons and controls including a Ratio, Detector and Audio button. The Radio button allows you to select between the 8 ratio settings, working from left to right. The detector button can be used for the HP filter and the link functionality. The Audio button can be used to trigger the various distortion modes. It also includes a 10:1 opto settings for employing separate detector circuitry, designed to emulate the sound of classic light-controlled compressors.

British Mode
One of the most unique features of the EL8XMXM is the integrated 'British Mode'. This mode was inspired by unusual settings used in classic limiters. The original limiters made in the 1980s featured a four-ratio design, with each ratio becoming engaged by selecting one of the four buttons. Engineers found that you could activate all the four ratios simultaneously by pushing the buttons in a certain way. This resulted in an over-the-top setting, that delivered a more aggressive sound.

Stereo Image Link
In addition to the British Mode, this expanded version of the EL8XM provides added stereo image link in the form of the Image Link connectivity. The original Distressor design features a stereo link function using the summing and phase detection method. The EL8XMXM features new Stereo Image Link functionality, providing three linking options. You can choose between the original phase link, and the new Image Link, which is a combination of both phase and image linking.

Design & Connectivity
Reminiscent of classic compressors from the 1980s, the Distressor EL8XM utilises retro-style components for a vintage aesthetic. The front-panel features a 17-segment gain reduction meter, providing a clear and concise visual indicator for your levels. It features a true bypass control for comparing between affected sounds. The rear of the unit features both XLR and 1/4-inch I/O connectivity, which is stereo linkable for added versatility.